From Ranger to Representative: Jason Crow on Service, Sacrifice, and Solutions
 In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie are honored to welcome Congressman Jason Crow, who represents Colorado’s Sixth Congressional District.
A former Army Ranger and Bronze Star recipient, Jason brings the heart of a public servant and the grit of a soldier to Congress. From working minimum-wage jobs in high school to deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan with the 82nd Airborne Division and elite 75th Ranger Regiment, Jason’s journey is a powerful testament to servant leadership.

 We dive into:
• Jason’s path from working-class roots to the battlefield and into the halls of Congress
•  How his military experience shapes his approach to leadership and legislation
•  His work helping veterans navigate life after service
Tune in for a powerful conversation on service, sacrifice, and putting people before politics.
In This Episode You Will Hear:
• I got hooked in the military for college money. (8:00)
• [The military] totally changed the trajectory of my life. (9:54)
• I always make it a point when I run into a Vietnam vet; I say “Welcome Home.” (16:20)
• [Marcus] Q: “Did you sign up for ranger school? What’s that like?”   A: “Well, it sucks.” (20:22)
• Georgia is cold in the winter. It’s just a fuck fest. You’re just cold and tired and hungry for 2 months. (21:05)
• College is good, but I tell a lot of folks is [to learn] a trade. (35:40)
• The civil military divide: How little understanding a lot of people in America have of military service. (39:53)
• To be a veteran advocate, you had to be the squeaky wheel in politics. (41:08)
• Morgan [Luttrell] and I have this bill trying to stop veteran suicides in VA facilities. (43:34)
• We can only make good policy if we have good information. (44:47)
• [Marcus] “You and I don’t need enemies – we have friends.” (48:21)
• [Marcus] “My brother never says anything nice to me.” (48:30)
• [Melanie: Vets should] “Support each other, love each other, lift each other up. Talk shit in a good way. Hold each other accountable.” (49:10)
• The greatest generation fought WWII, defeated fascism, and they came back and became the civic leaders, the political leaders, the business leaders. They set the standard for what citizenship is about. (52:57)
• We have the Bipartisan Veteran Caucus in congress. We call it the Noah’s Ark caucus, because you’ve gotta join with somebody from the other side of the aisle. (54:23)

Socials:
  - Bio: https://crow.house.gov/about
  - X: https://x.com/RepJasonCrow
  - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RepJasonCrow/
  - Instagram:  repjasoncrow

Support TNQ
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Sponsors:
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Watch Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JER0Fkyy3tw
First Look Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3DWuqiAUKg&t=3s

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Skating Across America for Sobriety and Purpose
In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie are joined by the incredible Chad Caruso — a skateboarder, YouTuber, and Guinness World Record holder who skated 3,000 miles across America in just 57 days, from Venice Beach, CA to Virginia Beach, VA.
Chad didn’t just break records — he used this cross-country journey to raise money for Natural High, a nonprofit youth drug prevention program, and to share his powerful story of overcoming addiction and injury. Skateboarding became more than a passion — it became a lifeline, helping Chad find sobriety, resilience, and purpose.

In this episode Chad shares about:
•His record-setting skate across the U.S.
•What pushed him to keep going — physically, mentally, and emotionally
•How skateboarding saved his life
•His work raising awareness for addiction and mental health
•The creation of his book, “Pushing Through America”
•What’s next in his mission to inspire and uplift others

Chad’s journey is one of grit, growth, and giving back. Whether you're a skater, in recovery, or just need a push to chase your own goals — this episode is for you.

Follow Chad on Instagram: @chad_caruso
Check out his book: Pushing Through America

In This Episode You Will Hear:
• I’ve been skateboarding for a little over 25 years. That’s really all I’ve devoted my life to. (3:19)
• I definitely recommend finishing school. (5:36)
• It doesn’t happen overnight. You go to a party here, a party there. Then you’re 26, 28. The habit thing. I didn’t want to be a part of the system. I was just all about rebelling. (7:40)
• That was the real turning point [when facing jail time] I had to look around and say “Alright, what are you doin?” (10:02)
• [I got into the Guinness Book of World Records] It was this year. (13:30)
• It’s nice to get the pat on the back, but ultimately, it was about much more than that. It was about giving up the drinking, focusing on something positive. I did the Skate Across America to raise money for charity. (13:40)
• When you’re at the start line it’s all fun. Everyone’s there filming, talking, it’s exciting. Then you push off, and then a couple of miles in, you’re like “Oh, I’m gonna be doing this for the next 2 months. (18:32)
• [I completed the entire distance with] 1 board; I didn’t change the wheels or the bearings, or anything. (23:56)
• Even if it’s way slower than you normally go, if you keep treading that ground, you’re gonna make it there. (28:55)
• I figured out that if I skate head-on to trucks, like tractor trailers; they’re coming at me at 70 mph. If I made myself seen, I could take over the whole lane. So, I would basically play chicken with them, and wave them out of the way. (30:14)
• [At the finish] The mayor put his hand up for a high five. I skated right past him, I didn’t even notice. (35:23)
• “If you keep pushing, you’re gonna get there.” (36:17)
• When you’re out there alone for so many hours, all the noise of society and people’s opinions kinda fades away. (36:26)
• When you’re left to yourself, you realize how simple life is. (36:35)
• Quitting drinking and focusing on my hobby turned my life around. (41:34)
• Whatever you’re most interested in or gets you excited – just pursue that. (41:52)
• If I can help to make this life a little bit better, that’s a win. (47:41)

Socials:
  - Chad's Website: https://chadcaruso.com/?srsltid=AfmBOop-itFsFDe1VaizcL5bdyRpDn-edp0YecWQ-SdGcoBmGKkCH3lo
  - Chad's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChadCaruso
  - Chad's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chad_caruso/?hl=en
  - Chad's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chadcaruso

Support TNQ
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The Journey to Midnight: From Navy Rescue Swimmer to Mental Health Advocate – A Conversation with Matt Griffin

This week, Marcus and Melanie are honored to welcome Matt Griffin, a six-year U.S. Navy veteran and fifteen-year law enforcement professional with a career deeply rooted in narcotics investigations and public service.
Matt's journey began in 1997 with the U.S. Navy, where he would later become a certified Search and Rescue swimmer, conducting counter-drug operations that played a key role in Operation Enduring Freedom, intercepting over a metric ton of cocaine intended for the U.S. market.
After transitioning to law enforcement, Matt joined the Virginia Beach Police Department in 2003, where his drive and initiative earned him multiple awards—including the Class Act Award—and certifications as a narcotics expert witness in state and superior court.
In 2007, Matt moved to the Keene, NH Police Department, where his work with the NH Drug Task Force and later as a School Resource Officer further showcased his dedication. He earned a Life Saving Award and led the department in arrests for two consecutive years.
In 2015, Matt was selected to join the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force, working undercover during the height of the opioid and fentanyl crisis. His relentless pursuit of justice and education surrounding these deadly drugs led to a State Police Commendation in 2016.
After retiring in 2017, Matt has focused on shattering the stigma around mental health in the first responder and military communities. Now working full-time with Cody Systems as an account executive for RMS/CAD, Matt is also a national keynote speaker, mentor, consultant, and the #1 Amazon bestselling author of The Journey to Midnight.

In this episode, Matt opens up about:

• His military and law enforcement career and the challenges he faced
• What it means to serve undercover during a drug epidemic
• The mental toll of frontline service—and the road to healing
• His passion for changing the culture around mental health in emergency services
• How immersive VR is being used to transform training and wellness in policing

Whether you're in uniform or support someone who is, this is a powerful and inspiring conversation you don’t want to miss.

In This Episode You Will Hear:
• [The field] is the great equalizer. Nobody can bother me there. On the field, it doesn’t matter what you bring, what you showed up in, or what kind of clothes or shoes you have. It’s me against you. (18:49)
•You just never knew when to give all you had, so all you do was constantly give all you had. (31:13)
•Life’s not fair, which makes it fair. (36:45)
•Just like in the Navy, you’re not gonna do well in the beginning, because they’ve gotta see a transition to you being good. (43:22)
•We made marijuana legal, but what that did was the cartels were like “I’m not losing 30% of my profit. I’ll find something else.” (61:46)
•America makes up 80 something percent of the world’s opioid prescriptions. (63:11)
•I take full responsibility for my divorce. I forgot how to be a husband, forgot how to be a dad, and it hit me hard. (66:11)
• [My friend Brian, also the Police Chief] was checking in on me. You know what I didn’t say? “how’re you doing bro?” He checked on me and I didn’t check on him. 2 hours later he went home and shot and killed himself. (72:46)
•If you want to learn how to make ramen the right way, ask a military guy. (76:31)
•I just felt like I was failing my kids every single day. All of a sudden, this light bulb went off. The next step in my transition from the Navy to the police department to the team, is to take myself out of the game. (77:00)
•The off-ramp is – it’s okay to not be okay. (80:05)
•Once you realize that life is short, you don’t want to waste 24 hours being hungover. (86:04)
•Every day I’d wake up and I’d say. “Today’s a good day to die, so is tomorrow.” And I would try to string some good decisions together. (90:29)
•My motto is: Every day, I find an opportunity inside of my 24-hour window that I get to live to do something good for somebody else. (91:08)
•Tomorrow is a good day, and you can make it there. (93:20)
•The scariest day of my life was when I hit “publish” on my book. (100:08)
•Where I sit here today, God is the biggest influence in my life. (107:08)
•As I speak around the country people would line up to buy a book, but I realized they weren’t trying to buy a book. You know what they wanted to do? They just wanted to come and say “Hey, I’m struggling, too.” (116:10)

Socials:
--  IG: authormattgriffin
— https://authormattgriffin.com/keynote
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From the Battlefield to Hollywood: Retired Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza on Honoring Warriors Through Film.

Welcome back to another episode of the Team Never Quite Podcast. This week, Marcus and Melanie are honored to sit down with retired Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza—a true warrior, storyteller, and advocate for authenticity in military films. Ray served 16 years in the SEAL Teams, including time with SEAL Team 5 and as a BUD/s instructor. A Silver Star recipient for heroism in combat, Ray has transitioned from military service to Hollywood, working as a producer, military advisor, and filmmaker.

Ray’s SEAL Career & Heroism:
·         Ray shares his journey from enlisting in the Navy in 1997 to becoming a SEAL and instructor.
·         His experiences in combat, including the mission that earned him the Silver Star.
·         Lessons from special operations and how they shape his approach to storytelling.
Transition to Hollywood:
·         How a role in Act of Valor introduced him to the world of filmmaking.
·         His work as a military advisor on Lone Survivor and other projects.
·         Producing The Warfighters and The Selection—his commitment to employing veterans in the industry.
The Making of the film: “Warfare”
·         Co-writing and co-directing Warfare with Alex Garland (Civil War).
·         The real-life mission that inspired the film and its deeply personal connection to his friend Elliott Miller.
·         The responsibility of portraying modern combat authentically and why this film stands out.
·         Insights from actors Charles Melton and Will Poulter on the emotional weight of the project.
Where to Watch & Follow:
·         Stay updated on Warfare’s release and behind-the-scenes content.
·         Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast.
        
Tune in for an unforgettable conversation with Ray Mendoza—this is one you don’t want to miss!

 In this episode you will hear:
• [Marcus] You go through your military career, then we get out, and then go to Hollywood. (19:47}
• I’ve always wanted to do this one for Elliott and for me. It’s therapeutic anyway. It takes courage to tell that story. (26:10)
• If you do do it, what is it gonna say? You gotta be really sure why you’re doing it. (26:30)
• It’s hard, when you talk to somebody, to tell their story. (27:14)
• Having those hard conversations with people. It’s kind of difficult. And to put in on film is another level of difficulty. (27:26)
• The big thing we were doing was overwatches. Clearance operations, pushing through a sector. Establishing a foothold. (31:31)
• Often, we never made it to the next cycle. They would start surrounding us, then we were like “We’re out.” Then we’d have to shoot our way out. (32:00)
• Everybody got fragged. When you hear a piece of metal land on concrete, it’s a very distinct sound. (40:55)
• There’s nothing I wouldn’t do with the guys. Shoulder to shoulder, I’ll Walk through the fire • with you guys. When you’re by yourself, it’s a little scary. (79:45)
• Well, if we don’t make it, at least we’ll all die together. (80:35)
• I’d rather die with my bro’s, than die alone. (80:44)

Socials:
-- IG: Warfare Movie
— Movies releases April 11th in theaters near you

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Sleepless No More: Trauma, Recovery, and the Science of Sleep with Dr. Leah Kaylor
In this eye-opening episode, Marcus and Melanie welcome Dr. Leah Kaylor—a distinguished clinical psychologist whose expertise spans forensic mental health, trauma recovery, and the intricate world of sleep science. With a career built on helping those affected by trauma, Dr. Kaylor brings unique insights into how sleep disturbances intersect with mental health challenges and recovery. Here's what you can expect from our conversation:
·         Foundational Expertise:
o    Dr. Kaylor earned her Master’s in Forensic Mental Health Counseling at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where she conducted forensic assessments for the Brooklyn Supreme Court.
o    She completed her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Saint Louis University, specializing in trauma-informed assessments and evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Processing Therapy and Imagery Rehearsal Therapy for survivors of sexual trauma.
·         Forensic and Crisis Intervention:
o    Dr. Kaylor has administered forensic assessments and competency restorations for the Shelby County Justice System, demonstrating her ability to bridge the gap between clinical psychology and legal requirements.
·         Scholarly Contributions & Thought Leadership:
o    With 5 book chapters and over 15 peer-reviewed journal articles to her name, she has significantly contributed to research on trauma, stress responses, sleep disorders, and mental health interventions.
o    A respected speaker on national and international stages, Dr. Kaylor discusses topics ranging from the human stress response and EMDR to practical techniques for addressing sleep disturbances in trauma-impacted populations.
·         Deep Dive into Sleep Science:
o    During her residency at the Memphis VA Medical Center, Dr. Kaylor honed her sleep-related expertise by working in the sleep clinic. Here, she helped active duty members and veterans overcome sleep disturbances by addressing issues such as sleep hygiene, nightmares, insomnia, and CPAP adherence.
o    In our discussion, she reveals how proper sleep management plays a critical role in trauma recovery and overall mental health, sharing actionable strategies to improve sleep quality and resilience in high-stress environments.
Join us as Dr. Kaylor unpacks the powerful connection between sleep and trauma recovery, offering a blend of clinical insights, practical sleep hygiene tips, and strategies to manage nightmares and insomnia. Whether you're a mental health professional, a veteran, or someone struggling with sleep issues, this episode is packed with knowledge to help you reclaim restful nights and resilient days.
Tune in now for a transformative discussion on how quality sleep can pave the way for healing and recovery!

 In this episode you will hear:
• My dad sells drugs and my mom’s in prison. My dad is a pharmaceutical drug representative, and my mom is a dental hygienist in a maximum security all-male prion. (5:42)
• Sexually violent predators are people who have committed some type of sex crime. They have been deemed to have some type of mental illness or defect, and there’s a belief that they will commit another sex crime. (15:59)
• Whenever we sleep – if you’re a normal, average healthy sleeper, you should go through various sleep cycles. You should be cycling through light sleep, deep sleep, REM sleep and you’re gonna be cycling through these several times a night. (23:18)
• REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, is most famous for having dreams. (23:44)
• Folks who have problems sleeping – there are so many things you can to help yourself. (38:12)
• Going to bed at the same time every night and waking up at the same time every morning. This is key. (39:4)
• We are inducing our own jet lag when we go from 6am Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, then go down to 9am on Saturday and Sunday. The brain gets very confused.  (43:11)
• I have been a psychologist for the FBI for 5 years now, and that entire time I will be helping people with trauma. I’m certified with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and brain spotting. I love those, but I also help people with sleep. (45:10)
• In my work, folks experience things and see things that we should not be asking normal human beings to see. (47:04)
• [Marcus] When you’re doing your job and you’re runnin’ and gunnin’ - no matter what it is - and it tarts creeping into your dreams, that means your database is full. (50:25)
• Taking time to reflect either alone or with someone you trust: How is this impacting me? What’s happening? (51:36)
• I have a book coming out on sleep coming out on sleep. It’s called The Sleep Advantage. (56:02)
• If you’re really getting good sleep, it can impact your decision-making, and your reaction time. It can make you the best of the best; it can impact your performance. (57:01)

Socials:
-- https://www.drleahkaylor.com/
-- https://www.facebook.com/drleahkaylor 

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Partnering with a True Hero – An Exclusive Conversation with Tom Smith

In this powerful episode, Marcus and Melanie welcome Tom Smith, a decorated former NYPD detective with over 30 years of service, who has served on the FBI/NYPD Joint Terrorism Task Force since the aftermath of September 11, 2001. Our discussion dives deep into Tom’s remarkable career—from his early days patrolling Harlem to high-stakes international investigations—and celebrates our proud partnership with 360 Security Services in the greater New York state area.
Learn how 360 Security Services and Tom Smith join forces to leverage decades of experience and resources, ensuring client needs are met where and when they’re needed most.
Tom’s journey started in 1990 with the NYPD, progressing from patrol officer in Harlem to detective in specialized units like Narcotics, Gang Investigations, and the Robbery Unit in The Bronx.
In the wake of the 9/11 attacks, Tom was recruited for the elite FBI/NYPD Joint Terrorism Task Force. Hear firsthand about the immense responsibilities of preventing another 9/11, the emotional toll of rescue and recovery at Ground Zero, and the harrowing experiences at the landfill.
Discover Tom’s deployment to Afghanistan, where he played a critical role in the rescue of a kidnapped New York Times reporter by collaborating with international security agencies.
Tom recounts the intense investigation of a school shooter threat in upstate New York—a case that struck close to home when the planned target list included friends of his own children.
Get insights into Tom’s role as co-host alongside retired NYPD Sgt. Dan Murphy on the fast-growing true crime podcast, "Gold Shields."
Tom Smith’s story is not only a testament to bravery and service, but also a compelling narrative of resilience, leadership, and dedication. Whether you’re interested in true crime, counter-terrorism, or inspirational career journeys, this episode is packed with real-life experiences and insights that you won’t want to miss.

 In this episode you will hear:
•  You can retire and you can be out of it, but that drive and what I’ve got in my DNA doesn’t leave. (5:56)
•  My dad was my hero. (7:04)
•  Watching him [my dad] come home every night with that gold shield that I used to steal, put on my belt and chase my sisters around. That was all I wanted to do. (7:09)
•  I knew real young what I was gonna do with the rest of my life. (7:34)
•  My dad told me “Listen, if your gonna do a job, do it great. Just do everything great you can with what’s in front of you. Whether you’re answering a phone or handling a homicide case. Just do it greet. (11:06)
•  When I took the NYPD test, 85,000 people took that test. That’s how revered the NYPD was at that time. (13:08)
•  Everyone [in the NYPD] was on the same page, and that’s how we got the city turned around from 3,000 homicides each year. (15:51)
•  Going from NYPD detective – you know I’m not going to the Bronx. I’m getting dropped in the war zone. (31:08)
•  I needed that trust [from an informant] and that relationship to get what I wanted. Did I use him? 100%. (37:17)
•  One of the last things I did, which is another story you don’t hear a lot. I stopped a school sheeting from happening. My daughter was a senior there and my son was a freshman. (38:46)
•  I went to catholic school. You had nuns who were the toughest women on this earth. (49:46)
• [Marcus] That’s why they call ‘em nuns. They don’t take none of your shit (50:13)
•  You get one shot in this life. You There’s no do-overs, no receipts, no returns. You get one shot to make an impression in your kids’ life. (55:21)

Socials:
-- https://thegoldshieldshow.com/about-us  -- Listen to Gold Shields Podcast here -- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gold-shields/id1682240835

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Inside the Hidden Battle: Dr. Chris Frueh & Rob Sweetman on "Operator Syndrome" and Military Mental Health

In this week’s compelling episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast, we welcome Dr. Chris Frueh, a distinguished clinical psychologist, professor of psychology, and published author with over 30 years of experience working with military veterans and active-duty personnel. Dr. Frueh shares his extensive expertise drawn from decades of clinical trials, epidemiology, historical insights, and neuroscience research. Listen as he unpacks his groundbreaking work on “Operator Syndrome” and reveals how this paradigm-shifting concept is transforming our understanding and treatment of the complex health, psychological, and interpersonal challenges faced by those in military special operations.

Extensive Expertise: Over thirty years of professional experience with military veterans and active-duty personnel.
Academic & Clinical Leadership: Clinical Psychologist, Professor of Psychology, and co-author of more than 300 scientific publications, including a graduate textbook on adult psychopathology.
Innovative Research: Pioneering work on “Operator Syndrome”—a framework addressing the interrelated challenges emerging from a career in military special operations
Influential Voice: Dr. Frueh has testified before the US Congress and served as a contractor for organizations such as the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs, US State Department, and the National Board of Medical Examiners.
Media Presence: His insights have been featured in top publications and cited by outlets like the Wall Street Journal, The Economist, Washington Post, Scientific American, and NBC News.

Along with Dr Freud, Rob Sweetman brings much to the discussion. A former Navy SEAL with eight years of service, Rob faced numerous hidden injuries, including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and Insomnia. The loss of a teammate to suicide became a turning point in his life, driving him to dedicate himself to the study of sleep science, determined to make a difference in the lives of others.

 Whether you’re a veteran, a mental health professional, or simply interested in groundbreaking research that bridges military experience and psychology, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain valuable insights and join the conversation on advancing care for our military community.

In this episode you will hear:
• Through the military, the VA system, we’ve completely screwed the pooch with PTSD. We’ve put everything on PTSD. (6:47)
•  Because we’ve put that reliance on PTSD, we’ve not attended to sleep, and sleep apnea.  (7:22)
• We’ve failed a generation of soldiers. (8:01)
• Soldiers injure their brains in 2 ways. Impact forces that cause a concussion, but also the blasts have a shearing effect. That scars the glial cells in the nervous system. (8:21)
• We need to overhaul our approach to how we take care of soldiers, and by the way, this also affects first responders. (9:49)
• Soldiers fight their wars overseas (so far). Responders are in the streets of their home town. (10:08)
• We, and I say we as the medical establishment, of which I’ve been a part of for 30 years, we’ve fucked it all up. We’re not paying attention. (10:36)
• We’ve put all the focus on the psychological without appreciating the physiological. (15:49)
• There’s a lot of powers in the pharmaceutical companies, insurance companies, and the hospitals that control the actions of doctors. (23:01)
• You can’t say that all sleep causes all mental [issues] and you can’t say that all mental health [issues] causes sleep health, but they’re definitely related. (24:55)
• We still don’t have suicide figured out. (26:26)
• You gotta have discipline. (32:22)
• A hypnogram is how we measure sleep with brain wave activity. (41:57)
• We have the best fighting force in the world. But we’ve been playing in the sand box of Iraq and Afghanistan. What’s gonna happen when we have our first word threat. When that pops up, are we gonna be ready? (51:45)
• Mr. Hegseth’s number one mission is to improve the lethality of the war fighter. (56:26)
• Last year, the VA spent 600 million dollars on suicide prevention efforts, that did not move the needle one little bit. (59:52)
• The concept of Operator Syndrome is not a diagnosis, it’s a framework for understanding how they’re all interrelated. (63:25)
• Your sleep affects your metabolism; it affects your hormone production. Testosterone is produced during sleep. Your brain health is affecting your sleep and your sleep is affecting your brain health. (63:38)

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Into the Fire: Storytelling and Survival with Phil Donlon & Gabe Mann
In this week’s Team Never Quit podcast, Marcus and Melanie dive deep into the art of storytelling—both on stage and in the heat of real-life danger. Our guests are two visionary filmmakers with unique, gripping perspectives on their craft: Phil Donlon, award-winning actor, filmmaker, and theater veteran, and Gabe Mann, director and cinematographer of the groundbreaking wildfire documentary Hotshot.
Phil Donlon takes us through his journey from the blue-collar streets of Chicago to the bright lights of Hollywood. A founding member of The Gilead Theater Company and a passionate storyteller, Donlon shares his experiences acting in renowned theater productions, signing with WME, and ultimately finding creative fulfillment by writing and directing his own films. His latest project, High & Outside: A Baseball Noir, is now streaming worldwide.
On the other end of the spectrum, Gabe Mann puts us directly in the line of fire—literally. His documentary Hotshot is a heart-pounding, first-person account of elite wildfire fighters who battle the flames without water, capturing their raw courage with breathtaking cinematography. After six years running alongside these real-life heroes, Mann shares the intensity, sacrifice, and unexpected pull of wildfire that changed his life forever.
From the front lines of nature’s most destructive force, this episode is about the power of storytelling, survival, and the relentless pursuit of passion.
Tune in for a conversation that will leave you inspired, shaken, and ready to chase your own fire.

In this episode you will hear:
• There’s something about when you witness wildfire firsthand. It does something to you. The actual firefighters call it “The Firebug.” It taps into something primal in men. I caught it. (6:00)
• Most of the photojournalists who actually do this right, are former firefighters. They actually have that certification. But for the most part, the kinds of people who are reporting for the Washington Post or The New York Times – they have no clue. (7:56)
• I’m a storyteller. So however I’m doing it, whether I’m an actor, whether I’m producing something, writing it – I just want to tell good stories. (9:46)
• We wanted to make a film that played like a narrative feature. (11:15)
• They’re so distracted with the climate change narrative, which really has nothing to do with wildfires. It’s the accumulation of fuel. (12:08)
• I’m the only dude in LA who’s actually from LA. (12:37)
• When you continue to put it on something that we don’t have control over – like the weather – it’s a completely disempowering narrative. (14:04)
• A wildfire is composed of 3 things. It’s called a fire triangle. You need all 3: Drought, Fuel, Ignition. (17:02)
• People were crying over all these giant Redwoods and Sequoias that were getting burned down back in 2020. And nobody ever asked the very obvious question. These trees are 2,000 years old, but the fire cycle in that forest is once every 300 years – you get a purging wildfire – How did get to be 2,000 years old? What happened 2,000 years ago that made these trees so robust? (17:39)
• There’s some people who have this gene that compels them to serve their country. (25:32)
• If we can get some people in Washington to see this film, I think we could help make change. (27:03)
• We have agency over wildfire. We can be proactive. We could solve it tomorrow, if we know what we’re supposed to do. If we look at what a hotshot crew does – literally all they do is get rid of plants. They’re either cutting them or burning them. That’s it. They don’t use water. (28:05)
• We started the film with a question. I think doing that gives people the opportunity to engage with the art in the appropriate way, which is – they answer the question. (47:34)
• Our motto when we were making this film was “Show, don’t tell.” (52:22)
• This is what art is for. It is for explaining and getting people to feel the things that you cannot adequately convey with words.

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The Ultimate Sacrifice: Honoring Corporal Jason Dunham’s Legacy
In this week's Team Never Quit Podcast, we learn the vivid details of the events leading up to the courage, love, and self-sacrifice made by Medal of Honor recipient, Corporal Jason L. Dunham of Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines in Karabilah, Iraq. What a leader by example Jason was - to the point of throwing himself onto a grenade in an effort to save his comrades. Marcus' guests, David Kniess (Veteran & Producer) and Lieutenant Colonel Trent Gibson (Dunham’s Company Commander), not only bring Jason's story to life, but discuss the compelling and engaging upcoming documentary - The Gift. The Gift documentary is a personal project for David, who had a chance meeting with Corporal Dunham. That chance meeting led to lifelong friendships with the Dunham family and a core group of Marines from Kilo Company. David is actively involved in the Veteran community and has volunteered his time, producing content for Veteran Organizations such as Beteran, Stop Soldier Suicide, John Preston Music, and The Boot Campaign. David also served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Normandy (CG-60), a guided missile cruiser.
 
In this episode you will hear:
• Having the Dunham’s in my life has enriched my life. (10:52)
• It’s not just about Jason; it’s about everything that has affected all of you all those years. (15:46)
• Our generation and the younger generation is standing up and saying, “I’m not gonna wait for anyone. I’m gonna jump out there and teach guys how to surf, how to sing with dogs, start a podcast, and we’re talking about our shit. (22:44)
• [With regard to this film], all I care about is what Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Soldiers think.
For veterans who are still struggling, I want them to watch it and say “if these kid can do it, maybe I can do it too.” (26:44)
• I want civilians to know what it’s like for young men & women to go to war. (27:23)
• [Marcus] If somebody threw one of those “Thank you for service” lines at you – even if you haven’t done something – it’s coming…” (28:04)
• I believe in 3 things as a Marine. I believe in leadership by example; I believe in self-sacrifice for the greater good; and one man can make a difference. (33:06)
• Jason had the leadership qualities to lead a rifle squad of American sons. (37:39)
• Any leader who inspires his subordinates through personal example, to then return the favor and take care of him – that’s a true leader. (47:06)
• Dunham was a big boy. He’s not someone I would choose to grapple with. (54:38)
• Jason took off his Kevlar helmet, placed in on the grenade, and then laid down on it. (64:41)
• Knowing what I know of him now, he loved his marines so much. He didn’t just take care of them, he practiced taking care of them. Who fucking practices covering a live grenade with their helmet? (74:08)

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Special Guest: Former Texas Governor Rick Perry
Join Marcus and Melanie on this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast for an incredible conversation with former Texas Governor Rick Perry, as we dive into everything from rodeos to revolutionary treatments for veterans.

Topics Covered:
✅ Best Bar-B-Que Spots – During a lively discussion about the best Bar-B-Que spots, the consensus was clear—Texas is home to some of the best Bar-B-Que in the world. Many memorable places were mentioned: Truth Bar-B-Que in the Heights and in Brenham. As well as Merric Meat Company in Roundtop, TX. Franklin Barbecue in Austin tops the list with its legendary brisket, while Snow’s BBQ in Lexington, helmed by the iconic pitmaster Tootsie Tomanetz, remains a Saturday morning pilgrimage for smoked meat lovers. One of Marcus’ favorite spots is Tejas Bar-B-Que and Chocolate Factory, in Tomball, TX, as well as The County Line Bar-B-Que in Waller, TX.
Governor Perry states: “Brisket and sausage – nothing else even gets close. Our Bar-B-Que is the best in the world.” But one thing is certain—Texans take their Bar-B-Que as seriously as their state pride.
✅ How Marcus & Governor Perry Met – A story of friendship, leadership, and shared purpose.
✅ Morgan Luttrell’s Helicopter Crash – The harrowing experience of Marcus’ twin brother, Navy SEAL Morgan Luttrell.
✅ Ibogaine Treatment – A step-by-step breakdown of this groundbreaking therapy for PTSD and TBI.
✅ Stanford Study on Ibogaine – The latest research and findings on this alternative treatment.
✅ Texas Ibogaine Initiative – Governor Perry’s goals to bring this life-changing treatment to Texas.
✅ Marcus & Amber Capone’s Mission – How they’re saving lives by providing funding to help over 1,000 veterans seeking Ibogaine therapy.
✅ Unbelievable Survival Story – A former vet from the third Ranger Battalion had a jump accident where his parachute didn’t open, leading to a TBI for 17 years — until he found hope with Ambio and Ibogaine treatment.

Don’t miss this powerful conversation about healing, resilience, and the future of treatment for our veterans.

In This Episode You Will Hear:
• I made that fateful statement: “Hey if you’re ever through Austin, come by and see us.” Fat chance you’re gonna get into the Governor’s mansion, right? (10:48)
• As we make progress on getting Ibogaine off of schedule 1 and through clinical trials, that facilities will have Ibogaine available to treat traumatic brain injuries. (21:14)
• There is a way to regenerate the brain. (23:22)
• If you don’t want to quit, generally speaking, you’re not gonna. (31:42)
• Ibogaine. 1 treatment. Within 48 hours the desire is gone. The withdrawals – gone. (33:32)
• Ibogaine is on schedule 1. Schedule 1 is addictive, and that is has no medical purpose. (35:56)
• The best part about this is that you can’t lie t it. (36:25)
•  I tell people, “Be curious, lean into this.” (40:42)
• I think there are a lot of people who are starting clinics. Go somewhere reputable. Do your homework. Make sure there’s coaching before. (59:26)
• We spend billions of dollars in this state to treat people who have mental health issues. (61:39)
• There’s no reason why the state legislature wouldn’t go, you know what? We need to make this available. (64:57)
• I think that use of Ibogaine is another one that could have a massively powerful, positive effect on this country – I think even in the world. (69:51)
• For the naysayers and those who still are not believers, we’re gonna prove it to you. (71:00)

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Team Never Quit Podcast: From the Inauguration to the Rodeo – A Look Back & Ahead

In this week’s electrifying episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus, Melanie, and Hunter take a trip down memory lane, revisiting some of the most unforgettable podcast episodes of 2024. But that’s just the beginning! The team shares their firsthand experience attending the historic inauguration of the 47th President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, in Washington, D.C. From rubbing shoulders with dignitaries and famous faces to taking in the awe-inspiring monuments and museums, they give you an inside look at this monumental event.

🏈 The Road to the Super Bowl
As football fever ramps up, the crew weighs in on the upcoming Super Bowl showdown in New Orleans—who’s got the edge, and what’s the ultimate game-day strategy?

🎖 Honoring 20 Years of Operation Red Wings
Marcus reflects on the significance of the 20th anniversary of Operation Red Wings, honoring the legacy of the brave men who made the ultimate sacrifice.

🤠 Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Excitement
The countdown is on for one of Texas’ biggest and most beloved events—the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo! From bull riding to BBQ, Marcus, Melanie, and Hunter can’t wait to saddle up for all the action.

💬 Join the Conversation!
What are you most excited about—Super Bowl, the rodeo, or another big event? Let us know!

In This Episode You Will Hear:
• If you ever wanted to visit Texas, Houston rodeo season is one of the best times to come. March 4th thru the 23rd.   (6:22)
• No matter who you see walking out on those streets – if they’re from Houston Texas area, they’ve got a pair of boots and a hat in the closet. (6:58)
• The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo brings back-to-back-to-back A-list artists every single night. (7:18)
• Nowhere else [will you experience] a carnival that big. (9:47)
• If you don’t have a cowboy hat, get one. (10:23)
• We just got back from the inauguration. It was so freaking cold; they had to change the whole schedule. (11:50)
• The next day, we were able to stand on the stage – the rotunda. (12:24)
• Everybody was walking around looking like badasses. (12:59)
• We got to go to the balls. (13:43)
• The best ball you could go to was the black-tie Texas Ball. Out of all of them, that’s the one you want to go to. (14:15)
• The professional fighters – they’re the nicest guys on the planet. (18:54)
• The Gulf of Mexico has been officially renamed ”The Gulf of America,” at least according to the U.S. (33:31)
• June 28, 2025 is the 20th anniversary of [Operation] Red Wings (41:02)
• This is the only time I’ll ever talk smack to a Marine when it comes to golf and playing with the PXG clubs, cause that guy – apparently, he’s got some kick-ass compound. (44:28)
• If you’re somewhere, young, entrepreneur or wanting to be an entrepreneur. If you’ve got an idea and some wherewithal, some grit and a never quit attitude – you can do it. (45:09)
• Favorite podcast moments of 2024. (Starts at 47:11)
• There’s a Navy SEAL Museum opening up in San Diego soon. (49:09)
• We’ve gone to Rome a lot a seen the coliseum, but I’ve heard of them filling it up with water. (52:04)

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