Team Never Quit

In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie are thrilled to welcome Alex Bonamarte, a passionate entrepreneur, lifelong optimist, and father who lives by the principle of the Golden Rule. Alex wears many hats, from being a gentleman farmer to running the unique brand Firecracker Farm, where he is responsible for branding, marketing, web development, and daily operations. Firecracker Farm is home to the famous Hot Salt, a coarse sea salt infused with some of the world’s hottest peppers like Ghost, Carolina Reaper, and Scorpion. Tune in as Alex shares his journey of building this spicy empire, offering tips on entrepreneurship and his love for unique flavor experiences.Beyond the world of Hot Salt, Alex dives into his background in web and app development, design, and system design—skills that have played a crucial role in shaping his approach to business. As an active member of the Trading Tribe, Alex embraces continuous learning and collaboration, striving for growth and excellence in every area of life.Join us for an engaging conversation about fatherhood, the art of balancing business and personal life, and what it means to live optimistically while cultivating a brand that brings the heat!In This Episode You Will Hear:• My sister and I would travel back and forth to France – alone – which is kinda crazy. They’d put us on a plane doing layovers. I was 5 and she was 3. (7:09)• The most valuable thing I learned was to be able to just be who you are – take it or leave it.  (9:38) • I don’t quit, and I won’t fight unless I can win. (11:27)• People can do things of value from pretty much anywhere. (20:51)If you’re not a good man, you should probably try harder. (29:26)• [At the 9/11 scene] on the ground it did not look like what had happened. There was all sorts of glass and body parts, not from people on the plane, but from stuff that fell down. (35:01)• It wasn’t until the second impact people realized what was going on. (35:37)• The first people weren’t jumping intentionally. They were coming down like burning plastic – drip…1, 2,…1, 2, 3, 4. (36:52)• [Melanie] in the 9/11 museum, they have an exhibit on the jumpers .It’s one of those things that you don’t want to watch out of respect, and you do want to watch out of respect. The reason to watch is to understand the magnitude of what happened. (37:18)• [Marcus – After 9/11] No matter what you’re staring at – what kind of human it is looking at you – what they’re dressed in. It’s like “Hey brother, what’s up? You aight? Need something? The solidarity was amazing. (42:27)• Still there are lot of people who don’t like the American view of how things should be. (43:11)• [Melanie] it is important to remember, and it is important to teach the young generation. Or history will repeat itself if we forget and brush it under the rug. (44:28)• I’m a firm believer in our generation. (45:52)• Life is full of longshots. Everybody pick their longshot and go. (46:45)• I’ve always been a sucker for a nice, printed thing. (49:50)• [With regard to packaging my product] I think the whole experience makes it that much more satisfying. (51:05)• You have your own idea of what somebody else thinks because you never ask them. It’s such a weird thing that we live in our own heads, and if you just take the time to ask how you feel about this, and they will tell you. And you’re like “Holy shit. That was there the whole time?” (63:36) Socials:- IG:  ultrahotpeppers        - https://firecracker.farm/        - fathergoods  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13-  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquitSponsors:   - Navyfederal.org          - Tonal.com [TNQ]   - GoodRX.com/TNQ  - greenlight.com/TNQ  - PDSDebt.com/TNQ  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ   - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]  - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]  - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]  - Hims.com/TNQ  - Shopify.com/TNQ  - PXG.com/TNQ  - Aura.com/TNQ  - Moink.com/TNQ  - Policygenius.com  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Bedros Keuilian, a true embodiment of the American Dream. Born in Armenia, Bedros and his family fled communism to seek freedom and opportunity in the United States. From these humble beginnings, Bedros has become a highly successful American entrepreneur, demonstrating the power of determination and resilience. Bedros is a serial entrepreneur and investor with a hand in over a dozen industry-leading brands and businesses. He is the founder of Fit Body Boot Camp, a fitness franchise that has been recognized by Inc. Magazine and Entrepreneur Magazine as one of the 100 fastest-growing franchise brands in the world. He is also the author of the Wall Street Journal Best Selling book "Man Up – How to Cut the BS and Dominate In Business and In Life." His work focuses on empowering individuals to eliminate excuses, take control of their lives, and achieve greatness. Bedros believes in the power of the human spirit and the potential that lies within each of us. Through his life story, Bedros aims to inspire people to break free from their limitations and realize their full potential. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Bedros Keuilian, where he shares his journey, insights, and strategies to help you get unstuck and achieve the success you’ve always dreamed of. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or someone looking to improve their life, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that can help you reach your fullest potential! In This Episode You Will Hear: • In 1980 [my dad] bribed an official in the Soviet government to allow us to go on vacation to Italy, where we then went to the American consult. (11:08) • If [my dad] didn’t accept the privilege of being in the communist party, he’d be shipped off to Siberia. (11:38) • One time a rooster gave chase to me, and I’m like 4 or 5 years old, and this rooster is angry and` pecking at me, and I’m running. And the only place I could run into was the outhouse to get away from it. So I ran into the outhouse – a giant hole in the ground. While I’m in here, I’m gonna take a piss. And I squat over it, took my pants off, and I fall in. (18:40) • What my dad told me [America] was gonna be like – he kinda lied. (19:33) • I had a tight green sweatshirt with Herman Munster on it, and it said “Herman” underneath. And so they took me took school, and the kids started calling me Herman, and I answered to it. (21:06) • The life that he (my dad) gave by risking his life was huge. (26:13) • I’m a kid, and within the first year I learned the language, and I’m good to go. (26:53) • It was a horrible disease [Dementia] to have your mom not know your name. (28:40) • The way that disease kills you is it eats away at the part of the brain that controls your breathing. (33:31) • I remember a kid named Robby. He & I, behind a baseball backstop, we would try to dig a hole to China and we’d cover it up with twigs so no one would fill it in. (37:23) • I hated school. (38:44) • No good thing comes from being fat. I’m not body shaming. (45:06) • I believe that you can only love the people around you to the capacity that you can love yourself. (45:47) • My physical transformation going from fat to fit is how I got into fitness. (52:04) • [Marcus] Q: Boils down your success to one thing. What is that? Discipline? What are we talking about? [Bedros] A: Discipline and singularity of focus. (53:17) • I graduated because they didn’t want a man with a beard in high school. (54:30) • Confidence is built when you make a promise to yourself and keep it. (57:00) • Self-development metaphorically take the critic, duct tape him, gag him, and put him in the trunk. Then take the advocate ungag him, unbound him, put him in the front seat so you can hear him more often. (60:01) Socials: - IG:  bedroskeuilian         - https://bedroskeuilian.com/        - https://www.youtube.com/c/BedrosKeuilian      - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org          - Tonal.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]    - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ    - Shopify.com/TNQ   - PXG.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ    - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Living the Dream, Facing the Nightmare: An Interview with Alan C. Mack This week's Team Never Quit guest is a decorated war hero and an extraordinary pilot whose military career spanned nearly 36 years, including 17 years in Army Special Operations. Alan C. Mack, a retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5), shares his incredible journey from a young man with a passion for flying to a highly respected leader in some of the most elite units of the U.S. military. Alan's expertise and leadership saw him involved in numerous high-stakes operations, many still classified. One of the most notable missions he discusses is the Battle of Takur Ghar, also known as the Battle of Roberts Ridge, during Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan. Alan's bravery and skill under fire, including crash-landing a helicopter and attempting multiple rescue missions under heavy enemy fire, highlight his exceptional courage. Alan's distinguished service has earned him numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, three Bronze Stars, ten Air Medals (one with a Valor device), and many more. His impressive flight record includes over 6,700 flight hours, with more than 3,200 hours under Night Vision Goggles. After retiring from the military, Alan continued to serve his community. He now works as the Deputy Commissioner of Emergency Services for Orange County, New York, a role that he appreciates for its peaceful nature compared to his military experiences. Alan's story is one of resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of one's dreams. Despite the adversities and challenges faced in combat, his journey is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome and find meaning in serving others. His life is an inspiration, showing that with determination and courage, it's possible to live out your dreams while also facing and conquering the nightmares. This episode will leave you both inspired and reflective. In This Episode You Will Hear: • The biggest cause of an air refueling incident is the grohe – it’s a big hose – you are actually only 19’ from rotors to tanker. (26:26) • [During air refueling] You’re doing 110-120mph over the water. (27:00) • I’ve done air refueling as low as 100’ off the coast of Iraq. (27:08) • I get a missile fired at me so now I drop down between buildings. I’m down on the rooftops and you know what’s in front of me? Kites. Hundreds and hundreds of kites. (34:10) • The older [Chinook helicopter] Delta models just had handheld maps. (43:34) • [During Operation Red Wings] I sat down with the A10’s and the AC130’s with my map and the imagery and said “I need you to either suppress or creative a diversion that’s so big no one could help but look. (50:15) • Crew Chiefs sometimes see things that aren’t there (and I hate to say it that way) but sometimes they’ll see lights of a car and think they’re seeing signal light signals. (53:28) • Sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good. (55:00) • My youngest son was a Night Stalker Flight Engineer, and my oldest son is a Navy F18 wizzo (back seater) He’s a Goose. (58:05) • I did 17 years with the Night Stalkers, plus about 10 years of deployment. (59:03) • Every aircraft munition has a probable kill ratio. A surface to air missile has a “PK” of 75%, meaning that if they fired at you, you have a 75% chance of killing you. The ground has a 100% PK. (64:23) • I’ve got about 3,500, maybe 4,000 hours of night vision time, which is a lot. (67:51) • Anaconda was a conventional operation, such as Red Wings. There’s no soft component to it. (68:57) • We had 4 or 5 people on the aircraft tail, and we are diving at about 150, [one of our men that fell out but is tethered] while they’re shooting at us and his toes are tickling the trees. The crew chief is returning fire with an M60 machine gun. He looks over and pulls our guy up, and I learned we had lost Neil [another guy] and decided we’ve gotta go back. So I turned inbound and climbed back up and the controls stopped moving. Imagine you pulled the keys out of your car. That’s what it’s like with no hydraulics. So I’m like “Guys… we’re done,” as in “We’re going to die.” (79:03) • In the spirit of never quit, there’s a saying: ”Never quit flying the aircraft.” (83:22) • Everything I do in life, I associate with movies I’ve seen. (88:12) Socials: - IG:  alancmack2015         - https://alancmack.com/        - https://www.facebook.com/ BUY HIS BOOK HERE->  Razor 03: A Night Stalker’s Wars https://www.amazon.com/Razor-03-Night-Stalkers-Wars/dp/1399018698    - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org          - Tonal.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]    - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ    - Shopify.com/TNQ   - PXG.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ    - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

From the battlefield to the boardroom, with retired Navy SEAL, Lieutenant Commander JJ Parma. In this week’s episode of The Team Never Quit Podcast, we’re honored to have retired Navy SEAL Lieutenant Commander JJ Parma. With a distinguished military career spanning numerous positions, including SEAL Platoon Commander and multiple operations officer roles, JJ Parma’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the future of military operations. He was responsible for the manning, training, and equipping of personnel while managing day-to-day operations and budgeting for units across the globe. Beyond his military achievements, JJ has transitioned into civilian life as a motivational speaker and operations professional. With expertise in intercultural communication, intelligence analysis, government, and crisis response, JJ has a demonstrated history of leading in both military and civilian sectors. A Master of Business Administration with a focus on financial management, JJ is now a leader in the financial services industry, driving the strategic intent of investment platforms worldwide. His passion for leadership and culture is further backed by a specialized program in Professional Leadership Development from Harvard Business School, where he honed skills in business leadership, culture, and strategy. Alongside his Swim Buddy Kristel, JJ delves into how the lessons from his military career continue to influence his approach to business and life, providing practical insights that listeners can apply in their own lives. This episode is packed with valuable insights from a true leader who has mastered the art of navigating complex environments both in and out of the military. Whether you’re a military professional, business leader, or someone looking to elevate your personal and professional life, JJ Parma’s story will inspire and motivate you to strive for excellence. In This Episode You Will Hear: • I grew up 2 streets over from Marvelous Marvin Hagler. (4:28) • Everything about my childhood today is about perspective. (6:48) • [I grew] up in the inner city, a very diverse multicultural place. You name it, we had it. Portuguese, Greek, Black, Spanish, and Spanish populations – we had it all. (6:52) • My mother was the true definition of a hero – selfless. (9:20) • I would spend my time as a child alone, in a pool, teaching myself to swim. I was so comfortable, I would stay there all day, all night, all summer. (17:00) • I had every book on the Vietnam War that you could possibly imagine. (32:24) • I was the kid who tied my friends to a tree. (32:28) • This fascination with the military never really went way. It built and built. Every Halloween, guess what I was? Some kind of Army guy with face paint. Some commando, running around. (33:00) • [Navy SEALS] They’re like Green Berets - but the water… it was the water – peace. Nobody does that. That’s what I want.  Maritime. (39:04) • Rick Kyser was my mentor. He was phenomenal. He told us the story about Black Hawn down from his perspective. That was it for me. Hook, line, and sinker. This is the job for me. (48:19) • In Serbia, the Muslims were being eradicated by the Serbs. Genocide Level 1. And we went there defending the Muslim population. The peacekeeping mission was that we were protecting them. When it gets political, people want to hone in on the politics. They don’t know the stories on the ground.  The stories on the ground never get told. (61:52) • We spent 3 months ship-chasing Bin Laden’s family. There was a container ship in the northern Arabian Sea which had one of Bin Laden’s sons on it, transporting arms. You know what we found? 55 containers of rice. (70:27) • Next thing you know, I hear it. A 2.75 rocket. Hits about 1-15 yards from the back Humvee. The Humvee comes off the ground, lands, I’m in the 3rd Humvee looking back, and I’m like “We just lost a couple of guys right there.” (82:58) • I got a letter from Bush with Team 10’s original coin which said “Victory through Violence”, which they stopped making. Now it’s “Victory through Valor.” (92:19) • We have so many skills, and our skill set so vast, it’s all lexicon. That the trick that the civilians play on you. (100:26) • Find a good swim buddy. (101:15) • Moments are fleeting. One thing that’s finite is death. They’re told by society that this how it has to go. You have to live this phase, this phase, and this phase, and then you’re gone. And they live that way. We’re gonna try to reset that. (110:46) • When you find your swim buddy – if they find you at your lowest point – that’s a keeper. (111:52) • People need to fail, because from failure, launches a whole new life lesson. (113:10)  Socials: - IG:  thefourthphasepodcast -  IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org          - Tonal.com [TNQ]   - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - greenlight.com/TNQ   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]    - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ    - Shopify.com/TNQ   - PXG.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ    - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ

Leading the Houston Texans: A Conversation with Cal and Hannah McNair In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie sit down with Cal and Hannah McNair, the dynamic duo behind the Houston Texans. Cal McNair, the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of the Houston Texans, has been at the helm of the team since 2018, guiding them through remarkable achievements, including a 10-7 record in the 2023 season under a rookie head coach and quarterback. Under his leadership, the Texans secured their seventh division title and unveiled new fan-inspired uniforms in 2024. McNair attended The University of Texas at Austin, where he was a four-year member of the Longhorns' football team. He earned a master's degree in business administration from the Rice University Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Management. Cal shares his journey from his early career at Cogen Technologies to becoming the principal owner of the Texans in 2024. He discusses his vision for the team, the importance of community involvement, and the Texans Foundation's impact on Houston, which has raised over $48 million since its inception. Hannah McNair, a proud native Houstonian and University of Houston alum, joins the conversation to talk about their shared passion for philanthropy and, of course, the Houston Texans. With a background in business from the University of Houston and Rice University, Hannah has been deeply involved in numerous charities across the city, from the YMCA to the Houston Food Bank. She reflects on the couple’s commitment to giving back, balancing life as parents of seven, and supporting the community that has given them so much. In This Episode You Will Hear: • [Cal] What I really enjoy is going into someone else’s house, and beating them, and then seeing our fans, surrounded by the other team’s colors, and they’re wearing our colors in the stands , and when we win those games is my favorite [moment]. (2:45) • [Cal] We have fans that have had seats next to each other that didn’t know each other, but because they came to the game and sat next to each other, they became friends. (3:47) • [Cal played football at] The University of Texas. (7:27) • [Cal] The team was [originally] awarded to Los Angeles, but it had a deadline and they didn’t meet it. (8:22) • [Hannah] The interesting thing about twins is that you have had somebody who’s had your back your entire life. (29:24) • [Hannah] I think team sports is one of the most important educational things you can teach kids. (37:35) • [Hannah] [In baseball] You fail most of the time. If you have an error, are you gonna just stop the game? Are you gonna run to your parents? Or are you gonna learn from it, and go to the next play. You can’t just quick.  (37:46) • [Hannah] If you can learn how to be part of a team and put your personal feelings aside for the greater good of the team, I think that’s a valuable lesson, especially with youth today. (38:28) • [Hannah] With anything in the public eye, you try to use those [harassments in the stands] to create a better person in them, so that they’re ready for whatever comes their way, (42:56) • [Hannah] You have to have God as your foundation. If you don’t have that to turn to, you’re lost already. (43:21) • [Hannah] You cannot go wrong by doing what’s right. (50:11) • [Marcus] Q: What’s the best piece of advice or wisdom you’ve got from somebody? [Cal] A: Never Quit. (52:16) • [Hannah] [CJ Stroud] is the CEO on the field. (52:56)  Socials: - IG:  houstontexans -  IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org          - Tonal.com [TNQ]   - PDSDebt.com/TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]    - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ    - Shopify.com/TNQ   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ   - PXG.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ    - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Honoring Valor: A Conversation with Vietnam Veteran and Silver Star Recipient Marc Lawrence In this week's Team Never Quit Podcast, we have the honor of speaking with Marc Lawrence, a Vietnam veteran and recipient of the prestigious Silver Star for his acts of gallantry in combat. Marc shares his incredible journey, from his early days growing up, to his experiences in the Vietnam War, and how those experiences shaped his life afterward. This episode is a tribute to his bravery, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit. His story is one of courage, dedication, and unwavering patriotism. Marc recounts some his experiences in Vietnam, the challenges he faced, and the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices made by service members. Marc’s experiences in Vietnam shaped his outlook on life and leadership. Thank you for listening, and don't forget to honor our veterans. In This Episode You Will Hear: • As a kid, we grew up reading Sergeant Rock comic books, and we were playing Army in the woods, and a buddy & I played Frogmen. We had boats and we would slip into the canals and go underwater in the middle of the night. (8:03) • In basic training I learned the joys of KP and guard duty. (9:05) • The first thing you learn in a firefight – you can’t hear anything. (25:42) • I’m on the ground in a prone position. A bullet went under my hand, through my sling, between my arm and my chest, and tore out the stock of my gun.  Stray bullet. (26:16) • What am I gonna do when the shit hits the fan? My body was so full of adrenaline. When 3 events happened – [I thought] “I can’t get killed.” (31:15) • After I realized I can’t get killed, I threw caution to the wind. (31:35) • I always heard the mortars - never heard this one. And it threw me back. I don’t know what’s going on. One piece of shrapnel peeled my scalp back. (33:20) • All the crazy things I did was to train me for this one night so I could save my men. (42:17) • My last minute in the Army typifies my entire Army career. The finance Corps Major sees me. Goes to his pay clerk and gives an order not to pay me until I get a haircut. (44:06) • One day, I get this box in the mail I open it up and it’s a Silver Star. I didn’t tell anybody. They didn’t know what it was anyway. (46:57) • The doctors told me: “Son, we don’t know if you’re gonna be able to walk again or not. My exact words Wer “Fuck you, I’m walking out of your Goddamn hospital.” (48:49) • President [Bush] looked at me and said and said “Son, I know what it takes to get one of those [Silver Star]. I want to shake your hand.” (58:37) • My life driven by outside forces that I can’t control. (62:25) Socials: -  IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org          - drinkAG1.com/TNQ    - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]    - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ    - Shopify.com/TNQ   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ   - PXG.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ    - Policygenius.com   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Carrying the Torch: Honoring Heroes with Colton Kyle This week, Marcus and Melanie are honored to welcome Colton Kyle, the driving force behind the American Sniper Brand. Colton continues the legacy of his late father, U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, by embodying the values of respect, honor, and patriotism through a line of clothing and accessories. Join us as we delve into Colton’s mission to celebrate and support the heroes among us, and how American Sniper Brand aims to be a symbol of love, sacrifice, and strength. Colton’s dad, U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, was the most lethal sniper in American history. Colton created the American Sniper Brand to honor his father's legacy and to support the men and women who serve our country. A portion of the proceeds from the brand goes to the Taya and Chris Kyle Foundation, which strengthens the marriages of service families. Colton shares stories about his father, Chris Kyle, and the values he stood for. The inspiration behind American Sniper Brand and how it aims to honor the legacy of fallen heroes. The core values of respect, honor, and patriotism that guide the brand. Colton’s vision for American Sniper as a symbol of a warrior's love—love for God, others, and self-discipline. Tune in to hear Colton Kyle's inspiring journey and how he continues to honor his father's legacy while supporting the heroes of today. Don't miss this heartfelt and patriotic episode!  In This Episode You Will Hear: • What I did experience [with my dad] was a great love from a great father. • I believe I have a different gifting. (16:02) • I discovered Muay Thai [martial arts] not very long ago and I absolutely love it. (16:26) • I’m very confident in myself and my abilities. (17:14) • Physical training in the martial arts arena means so much more than just being physically capable. (18:12) • God has given me the tools and the people and the resources that I’m gonna be more than okay. (19:33) • I think I’m a better man today than I would have been had I not lost my father. (20:02) • If you’re gonna train a martial artist, you want to put him through the most rigorous and difficult training possible so that they’re prepare to take on anything. (20:18) • You can’t live tomorrow; you can’t life in the past; all you can do is show up and be present in the day. (21:45) • In my head I see a tidal wave that overcompensates for the loss that I had. (22:04) • God gave us life. We’re not even deserving of that, really. (23:09) • God didn’t take my father. He allowed it to happen and I’ve seen the good that was brought through it. (28:20) • I’m passionate, as well, about the firearm and tactical industry. (44:04) • I stand for Godliness. I stand for patriotism, I stand for sacrifice, duty, excellence, professionalism. (44:30) • I’m a visionary, so I see the future in everything. I’m very excited about that. (49:08) • I’m Colton Kyle, and I’m just gonna be Colton Kyle. Whatever Colton Kyle can be he will be. (51:36) • You should strive to be better than your mother; better than you father, in the ways you can control. (55:00) • To be really successful in something, you have to be gifted in that. (56:29) • The greatest you could ever give somebody is to introduce them to Christ. (60:10) Socials: - IG: coltonkyleofficial - americansniper.brand - https://americansniper.com/  -  IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - Policygenius.com    - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]    - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ    - Shopify.com/TNQ   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ   - PXG.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

Rising Above: A Conversation with Taya KyleIn this powerful episode, Marcus and Melanie visit with Taya Kyle, an author, political commentator, and military veteran's family activist. Taya is widely known as the widow of US Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, whose story was immortalized in the book and movie "American Sniper."Taya was unexpectedly thrust into the national spotlight when her husband, Chris Kyle, one of America’s greatest heroes, was tragically murdered. Chris Kyle’s legacy as a Navy SEAL and his extraordinary combat tours were shared with the world through his autobiography and its film adaptation. Despite the immense grief and pain, Taya has continued to honor Chris' life and service by dedicating herself to helping others navigate through their own tragedies.As a New York Times best-selling author, Taya’s first book, "American Wife," offers a deeply personal look at her life with Chris. In 2019, she released her second book, "American Spirit," a collection of inspirational short stories about remarkable individuals she has encountered on her journey. Taya’s commitment to uplifting others extends through her foundation, Taya and Chris Kyle Family - Service Marriage Strong, where she provides support and hope to those facing difficult times.Join us for an episode filled with hope, strength, and the enduring American spirit.In This Episode You Will Hear:• [McKnenna] I kind of always looked at everything as negative, and tried to find the negative in things. {21:06)• Go find people that who are so broken themselves. To come out of that is God’s grace. It is 100% God’s grace. (23:57)• Colton said, I’ve never seen an example of spiritual warfare, as much as I saw it with McKenna. (24:37)• [Melanie] We all make mistakes. We’re not born parents (30:51)• The parents are losing their time with the kids, and they’re expecting the schools to do it. I advise every single person to homeschool. Be done. (37:18)• [McKenna] If there is an adult role model who is teaching them and showing them how to act, it is very helpful. (45:52)• There are some [teachers] that enjoy teaching or children, but a lot of them just enjoy power and control. (52:40)• Taya and Chris Kyle Foundation. And Service Marriage Strong. In marriage, 80% of murder-suicide is relationship related, not because of the people in it doing things wrong, but they don’t have the tools they need for a service marriage. (55:18)• We’re coming in to coach them on their strengths and how to use their strengths in marriage. (56:13)• If knowing that you’re not alone in your thoughts that you’ve kept it all to yourself. (57:17)• The happiness of your marriage impacts your children. (57:59)• [Marcus’ advice to Taya] You don’t have to be planning so much. Just show up. Do what you do, and God’s got it covered. (67:53)• Do something that you feel called to do. (69:56)• You have a responsibility to add goodness to the world. (97:21) Socials:- IG: tayakyle- www.tayakyle.com- https://www.tackf.org/-  IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13- https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquitSponsors:   - Navyfederal.org          - Policygenius.com   - GoodRX.com/TNQ   - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]  - Hims.com/TNQ   - Shopify.com/TNQ  - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ  - drinkAG1.com/TNQ  - PXG.com/TNQ  - Aura.com/TNQ  - Moink.com/TNQ  - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]  - usejoymode.com [TNQ]  - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie welcome Sean Glass, a former U.S. Navy SEAL officer and seasoned leadership instructor with Echelon Front. With over 13 years of experience in the SEAL Teams and combat deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, and Eastern Africa, Sean shares his insights on leadership in both military and business settings. Sean led 5 SEAL platoons in Iraq against Islamic State forces, and was the Officer-in-Charge of training for all West Coast SEAL Teams. In his transition to the business world, Sean became the Chief Operating Officer at a venture-backed construction tech startup, and is currently the Leadership Instructor at Echelon Front, where he is building a decentralized, team-first culture in a rapidly growing company. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Sean Glass as he shares invaluable lessons on leadership that can be applied in any high-pressure environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights from a true leader who has navigated the challenges of both the battlefield and the boardroom. In This Episode You Will Hear: • [Growing up] we had Emus at one time for some reason. (7:46) • I read that book, and something inside me was alive, like “This is what I wanna do” Everything I did after that was asking myself that question:  Is this next move gonna help me get into the Navy? and if it’s not, then I didn’t do it. (17:25) • [Marcus] I feel like our saving grace is the fact that we did it for God and country. If you’re a wild child and you wanna have the most fun of your entire life, go into the SEAL teams. (19:36) • Given a boat crew, If you don’t perform - if you screw up, your boat crew get beats for you. Sorry – remediated – gets remediated for you. (24:51) • The less you think about yourself, especially when you’re miserable, the better off you are. (25:18) • [Marcus] If you want to teach your son or yourself to be a great barterer or negotiator, go over there [Afghanistan]. (41:24) • Gift giving is a big thing to them [Afghans]. (41:54) • Getting to be on the other side of the BUDS equation was a great experience, because you get to see all the workings that go into it - all the things you don’t see and appreciate as a student obviously because you’re just trying to survive. (44:21) • I don’t have a good poker face. (45:33) • No one puts a premium on training like the SEAL teams do. It’s everything for us. (54:26) • I closed out my career at the training command which was just the best place you could possibly be. (55:21) • Our goal there [Echelon Front] is to arm their leaders with the tools they need to be better leaders. (65:42) • Jocko started Primal Beef, and our goal was to bring the same farm-raised all natural, Black Angus American beef that we had the opportunity to eat every night to as many Americans as we possibly could. (70:03) • Our whole goal was basically to make things the best experience you could possibly have ordering beef from somebody. (74:49) • Well above 80% of all beef produced in America comes from 4 different massive companies, and at least one of them is a foreign owned company. (77:55) • The average age of a farmer right now is 63 years old, because families just aren’t taking over the family business. (78:06) Socials: - IG: primalbeef_co - IG: seanglassactual - www.primalbeef.com -  IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:    - Navyfederal.org           - Policygenius.com    - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]    - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ    - Shopify.com/TNQ   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ   - drinkAG1.com/TNQ   - PXG.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]

In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus & Melanie connect with Josh Smith, Master Bladesmith. His journey into the world of bladesmithing began at the young age of 11, under the mentorship of his baseball coach, Rick Dunkerley. Rick introduced Josh to the art of knife-making, guiding him through the process of removing stock blades. Josh set up his own shop at home, thanks to his father, who provided him space in his equipment shop. By the age of 12, Josh had joined the American Bladesmith Society, marking the start of his formal journey into bladesmithing. At 14, Josh attended the Eugene Oregon knife show, where he met other talented knife makers who generously shared their knowledge with him. This experience further fueled his passion and skill in the craft. At just 15 years old, Josh passed the rigorous Journeyman bladesmith test at the Blade Show in Atlanta, Georgia, becoming the youngest bladesmith to achieve this feat. The Journeyman test involves a performance test, where a forged and heat-treated blade must chop a 1” rope and two 2x4s in half and still be able to shave hair. The blade must also withstand a 90-degree bend in a vise without breaking. Following the performance test, the candidate presents five knives to a panel of Mastersmith Judges for evaluation of craftsmanship. Josh didn't stop there. He continued to hone his craft and, at 19, became the youngest bladesmith to earn the prestigious Master Smith rating from the American Bladesmith Society. Tune in to hear more about Josh's incredible journey and the dedication it takes to become a master of bladesmithing! In This Episode You Will Hear: • I passed the Mastersmith test when I was young, so technically, I’m a master bladesmith.  • That [Mastersmith] test and getting there was a lot of work over a lot of years, but really what is meant is you’re really now ready to start learning. You can actually absorb what you’re being taught. • If you’re looking back at something you built 20 years ago, and you’re still thinking that’s the best thing you’ve ever done, you’ve really gotta be honest with yourself. You really haven’t come very far. • There’s a picture of me in Blade Magazine when I’m about 12, standing on a milk crate grinding knives. • I was pretty motivated. At 15 years old, I became the youngest journeyman knife-maker in the world, and then at 19 I became the youngest Mastersmith. • I started getting publicity in magazines when I was really young. When I was 16 years old, I probably had 150 knife orders from all over the world. • It’s amazing today, with what’s at your fingertips, you can learn how to do anything right from home. • Nothing even today replaces being in the presence of that master and having them teach you. • Style comes over time. • One thing I’m proud of – I didn’t fall into making one style of a knife. I can do almost anything across the board. That is what a master is. • I won the best Damascus knife award in the world at the Atlanta Blade Show when I was 20 years old. • I’ve sharpened thousands of knives for people. It doesn’t matter who made it. What matters is who carried it. • I don’t need 300million Americans to be my customer. I want the 20-30-40-50 million that are patriotic as hell and appreciate quality. They want that story behind the blade. We’re proving that American manufacturing is not just not dead, but it’s desired by Americans. • Ten years ago, my house burned to the ground. I was completely broke as hell, living in a camper. And today, I’m shaking hands with President Trump, Junior’s coming over and I pig hunted with Rogan. I get to be friends with heroes-our veterans. • People need to keep moving the ball forward and never give up. Socials: - montanaknifecompany - https://www.montanaknifecompany.com/ -  IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors:   - Navyfederal.org          - drinkAG1.com/TNQ   - GoodRX.com/TNQ    - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]   - Shadyrays.com [TNQ]   - Hims.com/TNQ    - Shopify.com/TNQ   - mackweldon.com/utm_source=streaming&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastlaunch&utm_content=TNQutm_term=TNQ   - PXG.com/TNQ   - Aura.com/TNQ   - Moink.com/TNQ   - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]   - usejoymode.com [TNQ]   - Shhtape.com [TNQ]   - Policygenius.com