John Collins’ Raw Journey Through the SEAL K9 Program and a Heartbreaking Deployment Betrayal | Ep. 251 | Pt. 3

In the powerful and emotional conclusion of Episode 251 of the Mike Drop Podcast, host Mike Ritland sits down with former Navy SEAL John Collins for a raw and unfiltered exploration of his time in the SEAL Teams’ K9 program.

This episode dives deep into John’s experiences with two unforgettable military working dogs, Tyson and Duke, whose alpha personalities and unrelenting drive left lasting scars—both physical and emotional. John recounts the intense challenges of training these formidable canines, including a chaotic encounter with Tyson that tested his resilience as a handler. The conversation takes a somber turn as John shares the heartbreaking story of Tyson’s death in a 2017 firefight in Iraq, a loss that hit hard and set the stage for a frustrating deployment experience marked by resistance and betrayal from within his own ranks. From navigating Navy politics and leadership failures to his eventual decision to leave the SEAL Teams after nearly 12 years, John reflects on the toll of service and the struggle to find purpose in civilian life.

With candid insights into military culture, the evolving role of drones in warfare, and advice for the next generation of SEALs, this episode is a gripping testament to the bonds forged with K9 partners and the challenges of transitioning from warrior to civilian. Don’t miss this unforgettable finale to John Collins’ story, filled with heart, grit, and hard-earned wisdom.

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