My Unconventional Journey To Becoming a SEAL | Ep. 263
From a troubled youth in Vermont, where a brush with the dangerous world of drug dealing nearly derailed his life, Alex found redemption through the grueling trials of SEAL training and a 12-year career with SEAL Team Three. His journey from chaos to discipline, marked by raw honesty and resilience, sets the stage for a candid conversation about overcoming adversity and finding purpose.
Alex opens up about a pivotal moment that changed his trajectory: a terrifying robbery attempt that left him confronting his choices and their impact on his family. This wake-up call propelled him toward the military, where he embraced the challenges of BUD/S and emerged as a SEAL. Alongside his military insights, Alex shares his passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), his current pursuit as a competitor, and his entrepreneurial venture with LFW Clothing Company. His story is a testament to the power of grit and self-discovery.
Join Mike and Alex as they dive into the highs and lows of a life shaped by intense experiences, from the streets of Vermont to the battlefields of Iraq. With humor, vulnerability, and hard-earned wisdom, Alex reflects on his SEAL career, personal growth, and the mental health struggles that continue to challenge him. This episode is a raw, inspiring exploration of what it means to keep moving forward, no matter the odds.
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CHAPTERS
0:00 - Introduction
1:08 - Team Dog Ad
2:02 - Books, Attachment Styles, and Relationships
5:00 - Favorite Jiu-Jitsu Submissions
10:05 - Jiu-Jitsu Training and Conditioning
13:31 - Time Travel
17:07 - Favorite Quote and Mental Health
18:10 - Emotional Intelligence in SEAL Teams
22:58 - Childhood and Family Dynamics
26:20 - Early Interest in Military
32:31 - Post-High School Struggles
40:06 - Starting Drug Sales
49:05 - Robbery Incident Details
56:02 - Quitting Drugs and Railroad Work
1:01:22 - Enlisting in Navy SEALs
1:07:46 - BUDS Training Experiences
1:18:00 - Hell Week Reflections
1:25:00 - Comics and BUDS Stories
1:31:05 - First Deployment Augment
1:38:01 - First Combat Experience
1:46:00 - Partner Force Realities
1:50:20 - Javelin and Suicide Vest Incident
1:58:03 - Combat Jealousy in Teams
2:01:09 - Syria Deployment Insights
2:06:11 - Civilian Casualties Reflection
2:11:04 - Impact on Relationships
2:14:25 - Court Battles and Harassment
2:18:22 - Therapy and Self-Improvement
2:25:12 - Screening for DEVGRU
2:32:06 - Depression and Support
2:40:22 - Relationship with Kids Post-Divorce
2:42:35 - Starting Jiu-Jitsu Seriously
2:47:04 - Launching LFW Clothing Co.
2:54:00 - Current Ventures and School
2:58:12 - Culture Shifts in SEAL Teams
3:05:42 - Hegseth's Speech
3:15:33 - United We Stand Message
3:20:22 - Closing Thoughts and Appreciation
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