The Team House
The Team House is a long-form, fiercely apolitical national security podcast hosted by Jack Murphy, featuring special operations veterans, intelligence professionals, frontline reporters, and guests who have never spoken publicly before. It delivers deep-dive conversations on conflict, tradecraft, and the forces shaping the world, alongside the sister show Eyes On Geopolitics hosted by Mick Mulroy, Andy Milburn, and Jason Lyons, focused on breaking down current geopolitical events and what they mean for national security.
Episodes
Inside a Ransom Exchange With Somali Pirates | David Leaning
Dave Leaning recounts his path from the Royal Marines and Afghanistan to the little-seen world of private maritime security and counter-piracy operations off East Africa. He takes us inside ransom deliveries, hostage recoveries, armed encounters with Somali pirates, and the missions that ultimately gave him a sense of closure after war.https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-leaning-04014439Today's Spon
AI: Boom or Doom? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
Anthony Vinci joins us to break down the rapidly evolving AI landscape, from China’s growing challenge and the risks of frontier models to surveillance, national security, and the race to control the technology. We also get into the massive spending behind the AI boom, whether current valuations are sustainable, and what happens if the bubble eventually bursts.Anthony's AI company: https://www.vic
Is the U.S. Navy About to Break? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
This episode breaks down the growing strain on the U.S. Navy, from conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln and America’s shipbuilding problems to what that could mean in a potential Taiwan crisis. The group also covers Israel’s campaign in southern Lebanon, Israeli politics, and reports of possible CIA covert activity tied to drug trafficking around Ecuador and the Galapagos.Mars Men ⬇️https://m
The Coast Guard Unit That Hunted Drug Traffickers | Giuseppe Weller
Giuseppe Weller recounts the little-known story of the Coast Guard’s Drug Interdiction Assist Team, which worked alongside the DEA in South America conducting riverine missions, training local forces, and helping destroy cocaine labs and airstrips. He also discusses Ranger School, hunting traffickers in Bolivia, the eventual shutdown of the unit, and how that experience led him into a career in un
How Bad Intelligence Helped Sell the Iraq War | Luis Rueda (throwback episode)
original air date - 01/19/24Former CIA officer Luis Rueda reflects on a career that took him from fleeing Castro’s Cuba to covert operations in Central America, Grenada, the drug war, Iraq, and eventually serving as Chief of Station in New Delhi. He also breaks down the failures behind the Iraq War, the reality of intelligence work, and what decades in the CIA taught him about power, policy, and c
Iran War Update & Is Cuba Really Next? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
This episode breaks down the latest developments in the Iran conflict, including the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. munitions shortages, covert action, and growing unrest inside Iran. The group also discusses the CIA’s new Cuba task force, the strengths of European intelligence services, and why Ukraine may be in a stronger position than the headlines suggest.Support the show on Patreon:⬇️https://www.patr
From Special Forces to an Outlaw Motorcycle Club | Kenny Robertson
Kenny Robertson reflects on his career from the Marine Corps and 101st Airborne to 5th Special Forces Group, including deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Syria, and Ukraine. He also discusses the toll of years in combat, his struggles after leaving the military, and how psychedelic medicine led him to create Waypoint 6 to help other veterans.https://www.waypoint6.com/https://www.instagram.
RANGER, RRC (JSOC), OMEGA Team Operator | Mike Edwards (throwback episode)
original airdate: 10/20/23Mike Edwards recounts his journey from the conventional Army to the 75th Ranger Regiment and the Regimental Reconnaissance Company (RRC), sharing stories from combat in Iraq, clandestine reconnaissance missions, and years spent leading and training some of the military's most elite units. He also reflects on Project Exodus Relief, the challenges of transitioning out of th
Trump's Bluff Went Nowhere (Iran War Update) | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
As reports of a much larger U.S. military campaign against Iran emerged, the Trump administration abruptly paused the strikes and shifted back toward diplomacy. We break down whether the threat of escalation was a negotiating strategy, why sanctions continue to fail, Iran's asymmetric advantages, dwindling U.S. missile stockpiles, and what happens next in one of the world's most dangerous conflict
Inside the SAS w/ SAS Operator Jay Morton
Jay Morton discusses his career in the British Parachute Regiment and the Special Air Service (SAS), including deployments to Afghanistan, the challenges of SAS selection, and the realities of life in one of the world's premier special operations units. He also reflects on his transition to civilian life, climbing Mount Everest, and the lessons he's carried with him since leaving the military.http
Can the U.S. Win a War in the Pacific Against China? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
We sit down with former U.S. Navy submariner and defense analyst Thomas Shugart to examine the rapidly shifting military balance between the United States and China, from Taiwan invasion planning and shipbuilding to missile stockpiles and the future of Indo-Pacific deterrence. We also explore whether America is prepared for a prolonged conflict with China and why Beijing may be far closer to that
Iran Knows America Is Running Out of Missiles | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
We break down the latest phase of the U.S.-Iran war, from dwindling interceptor stockpiles and the fight over the Strait of Hormuz to Iran’s nuclear leverage and the limits of American military power. We also examine Ukraine’s attacks on Russian supply ships bound for Iran, growing anger across the Middle East, and whether smarter sanctions, covert action, and diplomacy can still bring the war to
20 Years at War: A Ranger Regiment Story | Luis Saucedo
Luis Saucedo recounts his journey from the streets of Baghdad to high-value target raids in Afghanistan as a sniper in the 75th Ranger Regiment. He shares stories of brutal firefights, near-death experiences, and life inside one of America’s most elite combat units. Luis also reflects on the injury that ended his career, the difficult transition out of the military, and his new mission helping vet
How America Went Blind in Iran | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
This week we trace four decades of American intelligence failure in Iran, from the 1953 CIA coup against Mossadegh through the 1979 embassy takeover that wiped out our human network overnight. Jonathan Hackett walks us through Stuxnet, the JCPOA, the 2019 rollup of our entire asset network, and why we're now dependent on Israeli intelligence to tell us what's happening underground.Support the show
This is What Losing Looks Like (Iran War Update) | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
This week we break down the collapsed ceasefire and week two of American strikes on Iran, from the deaths of US service members in Jordan to the Chinese navigation system suddenly making Iranian missiles far more accurate. We get into why the air campaign can't achieve its goals, the intelligence gaps limiting US targeting, Saudi Arabia's controversial nuclear agreement, and the vulnerability of G
Inside the Special Forces Crisis Response Team | Dave Harris
We speak with retired Green Beret Dave Harris about his path from the 82nd Airborne to 3rd Special Forces Group, including deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Africa. We also get into Special Forces selection, crisis-response missions, CQB training, and how he transitioned into training law enforcement after leaving the Army.Today's Sponsors:GhostBed ⬇️https://www.ghostbed.com/houseFOR
Ceasefire with Iran...What's That? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
We break down the renewed fighting with Iran, the Strait of Hormuz crisis, and whether the U.S. has any realistic military or diplomatic path forward. We also get into NATO, Ukraine’s air defense needs, the defense industrial base, and why America keeps spending more while producing less.Support the show on Patreon:⬇️https://www.patreon.com/TheTeamHouseMarc's new article:https://engelsbergideas.co
Inside the FBI's Hunt for a Russian Mole | Wayne Barnes
We speak with retired FBI agent Wayne Barnes about his career in counterintelligence, from undercover work with the Black Panthers and a hidden Nixon assassination plot to debriefing Cold War defectors and recruiting Soviet intelligence officers. We also dig into his book A Traitor in the FBI, the hunt for a Russian mole inside the Bureau, and the tradecraft, deception, and lucky breaks that shape
Inside JSOC’s Most Dangerous Mission Ever | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
Jack Murphy joins us to break down his new High Side investigation into JSOC’s planned mission to recover highly enriched uranium from Iran, a raid some insiders compared to “Eagle Claw 2.0.” He explains why the operation would have required far more than a small special operations team, the risks of fighting in a CBRN environment, and why the mission may have been too dangerous to greenlight.The
Ukraine/Russia, NATO Summit & Iran Going Nowhere Fast | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
We break down Ukraine’s deep strike campaign inside Russia, the fight over Crimea, and whether Moscow’s war machine is starting to crack under pressure. We also get into the NATO summit, Trump’s unpredictable foreign policy process, Iran’s reconstitution after the ceasefire, and the growing split between the U.S. and Europe.Support the show on Patreon:⬇️https://www.patreon.com/TheTeamHouseMarc's n
Inside Ukraine’s Foreign Legion | Colin Freeman
We speak with journalist Colin Freeman about covering wars from Iraq and Somalia to Ukraine, including his own kidnapping by Somali pirates and the early days of Russia’s full-scale invasion. We also dig into his book The Mad and the Brave, the foreign volunteers who joined Ukraine’s International Legion, and the chaos, courage, and darker realities they faced on the front lines.Colin's book: http
Special Forces to CIA in Afghanistan Fighting the Soviets | Mike Vickers (throwback)
original air date 12/1/23Michael Vickers joins us to discuss his path from 10th Special Forces Group to the CIA, including Cold War missions, Berlin tradecraft, Grenada, Beirut, and Ground Branch. We also get into the covert war in Afghanistan, the Reagan Doctrine, working with foreign partners like Pakistan and China, and how the U.S. helped drive the Soviet Union out by all means available.Grab
Ukraine Is Breaking Russia’s War Machine | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
This week we break down the collapse of the Iran ceasefire talks, the escalating tit-for-tat strikes between Tehran and Washington, the fight over the Strait of Hormuz, and why the current MOU may be far more fragile than it appears. We also dive into the war in Ukraine, Russia's growing military and economic problems, the future of NATO support, and what these developments could mean for the broa
The Real Marine Behind Generation Kill | Brad Colbert
Brad Colbert, retired Marine Force Recon veteran and one of the real Marines behind Generation Kill, joins us to talk about his path into the Corps, recon selection, 9/11 while forward deployed, Camp Rhino, and the early days of the war in Afghanistan.We also get into the 2003 invasion of Iraq, how recon Marines were used as shock troops, his Royal Marines exchange, HBO’s Generation Kill, and the
Iran’s Trump Card: Hormuz | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
We break down the Iran MOU, the fight over the Strait of Hormuz, Lebanon’s role in the deal, and why the panel sees the agreement as a major strategic win for Tehran and a serious problem for Washington.We also dig into Iran’s nuclear program, Hezbollah, U.S. military messaging, bad battle-damage assessments, and whether the United States still has any real leverage left in the next 60 days of neg
The Truth About Women in Combat (Cultural Support Team)| Stephanie Rotolo
Stephanie Rotolo joins us to talk about her path from Mortuary Affairs and MP work to joining the Cultural Support Team program and deploying to Afghanistan with Special Operations Forces. She breaks down CST selection, working with Afghan female tactical platoons, going out on missions with ODAs, and how those experiences shaped her later work in Civil Affairs across West Africa.Find Stephanie he
Infiltrating Motorcycle Gangs as an Undercover ATF Agent | Frank D'Alesio (throwback episode)
original airdate - 7/21/23Frank retired from ATF in 2014 after 25 years of service, most of it as a Supervisory Special Agent focused on complex investigations and undercover operations. He personally infiltrated three outlaw motorcycle gangs and supported undercover operations targeting the Outlaws MC, Hells Angels MC, Pagans MC, Warlocks MC, and others while also serving in leadership roles acro
Deal with Iran in 24 hours? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
We break down the latest Iran deal rumors, the Strait of Hormuz crisis, Hezbollah’s role in Lebanon, and whether any new agreement can realistically improve on the JCPOA. We also dig into broader U.S. foreign policy failures, the risks around Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, and the national security implications of Anthropic, AI export controls, and the emerging AI arms race.GhostBed ⬇️https://
Delta Force EOD Operator | Taamir Ransome
Taamir Ransome joins The Team House to discuss his path from the 82nd Airborne to EOD, the 75th Ranger Regiment, and eventually Delta Force, including deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria. He also opens up about getting blown up repeatedly, the toll of the job, writing Mind of a Soldier, and the brutal reality of transitioning out of the military after a career in special operations.Grab Ta
Your Phone Is Targeting You | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
Mike Yeagley joins me to break down how mobile devices, ad tech, commercial location data, and data brokers create major OPSEC risks for service members, case officers, and anyone working in national security. He explains how adversaries can buy or exploit pattern-of-life data, why privacy settings often don’t go far enough, and what the future of tradecraft looks like in an age of ubiquitous tech
Iran War, Israeli Spying, and the ODNI Shakeup | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
Mick Mulroy and Jonathan Hackett break down the latest on the Iran war, including the stalled ceasefire talks, the Strait of Hormuz crisis, Israel and Hezbollah, sanctions, and whether the U.S. air campaign has created more strategic problems than it solved. They also dig into Israeli spying concerns, the ODNI shakeup after Tulsi Gabbard’s exit, and how Russia and Iran are using gaming platforms,
Former CIA Officer Breaks Down Source Operations in Afghanistan | Delbert Roll
Former Army officer and CIA operations officer Delbert Roll joins us to discuss his path from Third Special Forces Group to the Agency, including joining CIA just before 9/11 and working counterterrorism operations in Afghanistan. He breaks down CIA training, running sources, building targeting packages against al-Qaeda, working with JSOC and indigenous forces, and the realities of protecting asse
Is Regime Change the Answer in Iran? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
In this in-depth interview, former Green Beret Mike Taylor shares his expert insights on the current geopolitical situation in the Middle East, focusing on Iran, Hezbollah, and U.S. strategies. We explore historical context, regime change tactics, and potential paths forward for peace and stability.Grab Vitamin 1 WATER HERE:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Vitamin+One+WaterGhostBed ⬇️https://www.ghostbe
CIA Officer Busted With $40 Million in Gold Bars | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
The guys break down the still-unresolved Iran ceasefire talks, the Strait of Hormuz crisis, possible sanctions relief, and whether the U.S. is about to reward Tehran just to return to the status quo. They also dig into nuclear inspections, Iran’s hardliners, Israel’s push deeper into Lebanon, Hezbollah’s drone threat, and the political bind Trump now faces.The episode also covers the CIA executive
Former “Diplomat” on Iraq, Gaza, and Espionage | Chris Merritt
Former British Foreign Office official Chris Merritt joins us to discuss his time as a diplomat in Iraq, Gaza, and Jerusalem, including Basra’s deteriorating security situation, Iranian-backed militias, Hamas, the Fatah split, and the realities of doing diplomacy in war zones. He also breaks down how those experiences shaped his later work as a trauma psychologist and spy novelist, including Commi
Inside JSOC’s Most Secretive Undercover Missions | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
Jack Murphy, Sean Naylor, and Zach Dorfman break down the hidden world of JSOC non-official cover operatives — the military’s version of deep-cover spies — and reveal how elite units conducted clandestine missions in places like Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, and Iran. The episode dives into secret front companies, undercover tradecraft, failed training exercises, and why modern surveillance and AI may be
Iran–US Ceasefire Deal: Is It Legit? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
The guys break down the proposed Iran ceasefire extension, the Strait of Hormuz crisis, frozen assets, sanctions relief, and whether the war actually left the U.S. or the Iranian people better off. They also dig into Gulf security concerns, Israel and Hezbollah, the political backlash from Iran hawks, and what the conflict means for U.S. military posture in the Pacific.The episode then shifts to C
Former CIA Targeter: Hunting Terrorists After 9/11 | Brittany Butler
Former CIA targeting officer Brittany Butler joins us to discuss her path from a small town in Georgia to the CIA, where she helped build target packages against extremist networks in Iraq and Afghanistan. She breaks down what targeting officers actually do, the realities of working with detainees and liaison partners, and how the fight evolved from AQI toward ISIS and Taliban senior leadership.Br
Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol (LRRP) in Vietnam | Gary Linderer (throwback ep)
Gary Linderer is the publisher of Behind the Lines, a magazine that specializes in US military special operations. He served in Vietnam with the LRPs of the 101st Airborne Division, earning two Silver Stars, the Bronze Star with V device (for valor), the Army Commendation Medal with V device, and two Purple Hearts.Gary's books :https://www.amazon.com/stores/Gary-A.-Linderer/author/B001KHOOIG?ref=a
The China Summit, & the Terrible New CT Strategy | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
In this episode, Dee and Marc Polymeropoulos analyze recent geopolitical events including the China Summit, Iran tensions, and the new US counterterrorism strategy. They explore the implications of diplomatic moves, military actions, and strategic failures, offering insights into current US foreign policy and military operations.GhostBed ⬇️https://www.ghostbed.com/teamFOR 10% off! Support the show
WWII Navy Veteran on Secret Radar Work and the Pacific War | Arthur Lewis
World War II Pacific veteran Arthur Lewis joins us to look back on a remarkable life, from growing up in Brooklyn and training on classified Navy radar systems to serving aboard LSM-238 during the Iwo Jima campaign. He shares firsthand memories of the landing force, Japanese prisoners, ship damage, mine sweeping after the war, and the humanity he witnessed in the middle of combat.Arthur also discu
Former Green Beret and SMU Operator | David Carmichael | Ep. 412
David Carmichael joins us to discuss his memoir Gray Man: A Life Lived Under the Radar, tracing his life from growing up in missionary communities across West Africa to surviving abusive boarding schools and eventually finding his way into the U.S. Army. He breaks down his path through 5th Special Forces Group, the old Q Course, Somalia, HUMINT work, Korea, and the mindset that shaped a career spe
Dizzying Week with Iran/US & Russia on the Back Foot | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
The guys break down the latest chaos in the Iran war, from the shaky “ceasefire” and Strait of Hormuz tanker stops to drone strikes, air defense gaps, and the global economic fallout. They also dig into the reported Israeli base in Iraq, covert action options, whether the U.S. goal is a non-nuclear Iran or regime change, and how China and Russia could exploit the crisis.The episode also covers Ukr
Navy SEAL Operator: From 9/11 to Fighting ISIS | Joe Taverner
Former Navy SEAL Joe Taverner joins us to discuss his career from joining the Navy before 9/11 to deployments in the Philippines, Iraq, Afghanistan, and the fight against ISIS. He breaks down hunting Abu Sayyaf in Zamboanga, working with Polish GROM in Baghdad, the Battle of Najaf, and the 2016 Battle of Tel Skuf where Charlie Keating was killed in action.This episode also covers leadership after
NSA vs CIA: A Former Analyst Explains the Difference | Alma Katsu
Former NSA and CIA analyst Alma Katsu joins us to discuss her career in intelligence, from the analog era of NSA and early hacking programs to CIA work on social media, disinformation, and emerging technology. She also breaks down how real intelligence work differs from Hollywood spy fiction, and how her experiences shaped novels like Black Vault and her upcoming book on Havana Syndrome.This episo
Why We Can't Beat Iran | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
This episode features a deep discussion on current geopolitical tensions, military strategies, and U.S. foreign policy, with insights from experts on Iran, NATO, and U.S. military operations. The conversation covers recent military actions, legislative challenges, and regional alliances, providing a comprehensive overview of the current state of global security.GhostBed ⬇️https://www.ghostbed.com/
Iraq, Afghanistan, ISIS, & Ukraine: One Fighter’s Journey Through Modern War | Ryan O'Leary | Ep. 409
Combat veteran Ryan O'Leary joins us to discuss his journey from the Army National Guard to fighting alongside Kurdish forces against ISIS in Iraq, working with Iranian Kurdish insurgent groups, and later experiencing the war in Ukraine firsthand. Ryan breaks down the realities of insurgency warfare, Kurdish resistance movements, and why modern conflicts are being transformed by drones, surveillan
24th STS Operator | Chad McCoy (throwback episode)
original airdate 11/4/22Chad McCoy served in the Air Force for over 22 years, 18 of which with the 24th STS. (24th Special Tactics Squadron). Chad has been on 17 deployments the majority of which with JSOC and earned the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. Check out Chad here:Foxtrot3http://Foxtrot3.comLifeLine Rescue Tools https://lifelinerescuetools.com/Firestorm Labshttps://www.launchfirestorm.com/S
Is the U.S. Headed Back Into War With Iran? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
We break down the latest on the Iran conflict, the stalled diplomacy, and why the Strait of Hormuz has become Tehran’s most powerful bargaining chip. We dig into whether the U.S. or Israel would actually resume military operations, how Iran’s internal power struggle is shifting toward harder IRGC control, and what that means for any future nuclear deal.This episode also covers the War Powers Act,
Former British Intelligence Officer | Julien Fisher | Ep. 408
Former British intelligence officer Julian Fisher joins us to break down the real world of espionage, from MI6 tradecraft and denied-area operations to private intelligence work across Africa and conflict zones like Congo and Sierra Leone. He shares how intelligence officers build cover, recruit allies, and survive dangerous situations where a single decision can mean life or death.Grab Julien's b
NSA "Red Team" Hacker | Jeff Man (throwback episode)
original airdate 4/1/24Support the show here:⬇️https://www.patreon.com/TheTeamHouse---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Jeff Man is a respected Information Security expert, advisor, evangelist, and co-host on Paul’s Security Weekly and Tribe
Unpacking the Bipolar Messaging of the Iran War | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
This episode features a deep discussion on the current geopolitical tensions, focusing on Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, and US foreign policy strategies. Experts analyze military, diplomatic, and economic aspects, providing insights into potential outcomes and strategic considerations.Support the show on Patreon:⬇️https://www.patreon.com/TheTeamHouseSubscribe to our newsletter!!!!https://teamhousepo
Inside MACV-SOG: Black Ops Behind Enemy Lines in Vietnam | Ed Wolcoff | Ep. 407
MACV-SOG veteran Ed Wolcoff joins us to share firsthand stories from some of the most dangerous covert missions of the Vietnam War, operating deep behind enemy lines in Laos and Cambodia. He breaks down what it was really like leading recon teams under constant threat, from brutal ambushes and chaotic extractions to the realities of high-casualty operations.This episode also digs into the hard les
The Future of Warfare | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
This episode explores the future of warfare, focusing on drone technology, countermeasures, AI ethics, and innovative military strategies. Guests with special operations backgrounds discuss current challenges and solutions in modern combat, emphasizing rapid innovation and technological adaptation.Lobo Institute:https://www.loboinstitute.org/Support the show on Patreon:⬇️https://www.patreon.com/Th
Negotiations with Iran Fail & Trump Announces Naval Blockade | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
This episode covers the latest developments in Middle Eastern geopolitics, including Iran-US negotiations, the potential naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, and the implications of recent military and diplomatic actions. Experts analyze the strategic, legal, and economic aspects of these complex issues, providing insights into future scenarios.Support the show on Patreon:⬇️https://www.patreon.
Former CIA Spy on Putin’s Secret War Against the West | Sean Wiswesser | EP. 406
Former CIA case officer Sean Wiswesser joins Jack Murphy to break down the hidden world of Russian espionage, from Cold War tradecraft and sleeper agents to sabotage operations unfolding across Europe today. Sean also shares stories from his own career handling Russian assets, offering a rare look at how intelligence work actually happens in denied areas.This episode digs into why Russia still vie
2 Week Ceasefire Reached with Iran | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
This episode features a dynamic discussion on the recent ceasefire in the Middle East, strategic communications, and the geopolitical implications of the conflict. Experts analyze the military, diplomatic, and information warfare aspects, providing insights into future developments. This episode features an in-depth discussion on military logistics, geopolitical strategies, and current internation
Inside the Insane F-15 WSO Rescue in Iran by U.S. SOF | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
This episode breaks down the dramatic rescue of a downed F-15 pilot inside Iran and what it reveals about modern warfare, intelligence, and risk. The panel digs into how the operation unfolded, the role of CIA and JSOC, and the bigger question—whether the U.S. has a real strategy as the conflict escalates. From tactical success to strategic uncertainty, this is a clear-eyed look at what comes next
From Iraq’s Chaos to the Frontlines Against ISIS with the YPG | Dan Meally | Ep. 405
Dan Meally shares his journey from a chaotic early career in the British Army to deploying in Iraq, where tactical successes often clashed with strategic failure. He later recounts fighting ISIS alongside Kurdish forces in Syria, offering a raw look at modern combat, unit culture, and the realities on the ground. The conversation also explores the long-term impact of war and the challenges of comi
The Global Economic Fallout: Week 5 Iran War | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
In this episode, Nick Trickett, an energy market expert, discusses the current geopolitical and economic impacts of the ongoing energy crisis, including oil, natural gas, and renewable energy trends, and their implications for global markets and US policy.Find Nick here:https://sictransitiongloria.substack.com/https://uk.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-trickett-54b41634https://x.com/ntrickett16Support th
The Houthis Have Entered the Chat - Week 5 (Iran War) | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
A fast-moving breakdown of the expanding war with Iran, including U.S. and Israeli strikes, the closing of the Strait of Hormuz, and what a possible ground operation could look like. The discussion covers whether tactical military success is translating into strategic gains, the risks of escalation, and the political and military decision-making driving the conflict.Support the show on Patreon:⬇️h
Operation Red Wings: What Actually Happened | Ed Darack & Ross Schneiderman | Ep. 404
This episode features in-depth discussions with journalists Ed Darack and Ross Schneiderman on Operation Red Wings, exploring the mission's planning, execution, and the myths surrounding it. Gain insights into military decision-making, communication failures, and the importance of accurate reporting. This in-depth interview with Ed Darack and Ross Schneiderman unpacks the complexities, myths, and
Tactical Success, Strategic Failure - Week 4 of the Iran War | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
A deep dive into the escalating conflict with Iran, breaking down the military actions, economic fallout, and the growing risk of a wider regional war. The panel examines whether the U.S. has a coherent strategy—or if tactical success is masking a potential strategic failure. From oil markets to potential ground operations, this episode unpacks what happens next and why it matters.Support the show
The Wild West of Iraq: A Bank Robbery in Baghdad | Josh Bates | Ep. 403
We sit down with Josh Bates to discuss his experience as a Marine infantry officer during the invasion of Iraq, from the initial push north to the chaos of Baghdad after the regime collapsed. He breaks down the realities of urban combat, leadership under pressure, and the breakdown of order that fueled the early insurgency. We also discuss how those experiences shaped his career and led to writing
From West Point to the 101st to 1 Million Subscribers | Preston Stewart | Ep. 402
We sit down with West Point graduate Preston Stewart to talk about combat deployments in Afghanistan, the realities of leadership under fire, and the challenges of transitioning out of the military. He shares how he built a YouTube career breaking down modern warfare, from Ukraine to emerging drone tactics. We also discuss how technology is reshaping the battlefield and what it means for the futur
Are Iranian Sleeper Cells Already in the U.S.? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
We break down the growing fears of Iranian sleeper cells in the U.S. and whether the threat is real or overblown. The conversation covers how Iran and Hezbollah actually operate, the difference between lone wolves and organized networks, and what capability really looks like. We also dive into U.S. force movements, the Strait of Hormuz, and the challenges of dealing with Iran’s nuclear program.The
Let's be Honest - There is No Real Strategy for Iran | EYES ON GEOPOLITCS
We break down the U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, the debate over whether they were strategically sound, and what the administration may have failed to plan for next. The conversation covers Karg Island, the Strait of Hormuz, naval shortfalls, NSC process problems, and why tactical success could still lead to a much bigger regional war.Mars Men⬇️For a limited time, our listeners get 50% off FOR
How JSOC Uses Instagram Ads to Track Terrorists | Mike Yeagley | Ep. 401
We sit down with ad tech and data analytics expert Mike Yeagley to discuss how commercial advertising data became a powerful intelligence tool used by the U.S. national security community. He explains how smartphones, apps, and location data can reveal patterns of life and how programs developed with special operations helped track terrorists and understand targets on the battlefield. We also disc
Iran is Making MORE Oil Money Since the War Started | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
We break down the latest developments in the war with Iran, including strikes on key targets, the mining of the Strait of Hormuz, and the growing economic impact on global oil markets. The discussion dives into Iran’s black market oil trade with China, the rise of IRGC power inside the regime, and whether the U.S. actually has a clear strategic end state. We also examine drone warfare lessons from
Is JSOC Spinning Up to Capture Uranium in Iran? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
We break down the escalating war between the United States, Israel, and Iran, including strikes on nuclear facilities, the risk of a Strait of Hormuz blockade, and whether regime change in Tehran is actually possible. The conversation also dives into Russia providing intelligence to Iran, lessons from Ukraine’s drone war, and whether these conflicts are beginning to merge into something resembling
The FBI Bomb Tech Who Chased Terrorists Worldwide | Steve Lazarus | Ep. 400
Retired FBI agent Steve Lazarus joins us to discuss his career investigating domestic terrorism, infiltrating militias in the 1990s, and hunting figures like Olympic Park bomber Eric Rudolph. He also breaks down major cases from the inside, including the Boston Marathon bombing investigation and his work as an FBI bomb technician.Grab Steve's books here:⬇️https://a.co/d/0hPP1uJOhttps://a.co/d/0dfM
The CIA Has Been Arming Kurds in Iran | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
We break down the escalating conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, including recent strikes, Iranian retaliation, and the risk of a wider regional war. Jonathan Hackett, Jack Murphy, and Jason Lyons analyze the military options, geopolitical stakes, and what the next phase of escalation could look like in the Middle East.Jon Hackett's Book:⬇️https://a.co/d/082z28uYThe High Side :⬇️
WAR: U.S. & Israel Strike Iran, Khamenei Killed | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
In this episode, we discuss the recent military strikes by the US and Israel on Iran, the implications of Iran's retaliation, and the complexities of Iranian politics. They explore the potential outcomes of US-Iran relations, the succession of Iran's leadership following the death of Khomeini, and the strategic goals of the US in the region. The conversation highlights the challenges of regime cha
Inside REAL Human Trafficking Investigations | Carlos Rodriguez | Ep. 399
Carlos Rodriguez is a former Washington State Patrol detective and supervisor who led investigations into child exploitation, human trafficking, and online predator stings as part of the Missing & Exploited Children Task Force. He is the author of The Ugly Underneath, a book detailing the emotional toll of investigating crimes against children and the hidden psychological cost paid by those wh
Is the U.S. Starting Another Illegal War? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
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Philip Martin is a former U.S. Army counterintelligence officer who spent years hunting threats and protecting forces in Iraq before transitioning into the private sector. He now serves as Chief Security Officer at Coinbase, where he applies military tradecraft to securing one of the world’s largest crypto platforms against digital and physical threats.Today's Sponsors:Blue Chew ⬇️https://bluechew
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original airdate 4/7/23Dustin Ward served with the 75th Ranger Regiment with the Recce section and worked on special programs in Afghanistan.Grab Dustin's Lite Sleeping Bag!⬇️https://thelitesleeper.com/To help support the show and for all bonus content including:-AD FREE AUDIO-AD FREE VIDEO-Access to ALL bonus segments with our guestsSubscribe to our Patreon! ⬇️https://www.patreon.com/TheTeamHouse
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