Lesser Known Operators

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**Lesser Known Operators**

Lesser Known Operators is my attempt to sit down and interview as many of the military’s Special Operations Forces also known as “Operators” as I possibly can. There are a lot of really great “Operators” out there that no one has ever heard about. I want to go in to their experiences and learn some more about the best there are in our military.

Latest Episodes:

110 - Tyr Symank: Quiet Professionals, Loud Problems — Leadership Inside Special Forces Jan 19, 2026

Show notes

Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup

Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout.

Instagram – @redleader_standingby

Instagram – @406mvp

MT Vet Program Website

In this episode of "Lesser Known Operators," host Nicholas Allen welcomes Tyr Symank, a Sergeant Major in the 19th Special Forces Group. The conversation dives into the complexities of being a quiet professional in the military, discussing the balance between maintaining a low profile and promoting the community. Tyr shares his experiences with the Montana Vet Program, which offers therapeutic adventure trips for veterans, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and healing. The discussion also touches on the evolution of military culture, the challenges of social media, and the need for change within the Special Forces community, particularly regarding leadership and training practices. Tyr reflects on the internal dynamics of Special Forces, noting that the biggest enemy often comes from within, as infighting and elitism can hinder progress. He shares personal anecdotes about his journey through the ranks, the challenges of leadership, and the importance of building rapport with both peers and conventional forces. The episode concludes with a call for a more open dialogue about the realities of military life and the need for a shift in how the Special Forces are perceived and operate in the modern era. In this episode, Nicholas Allen and Tyr Symank delve into the complexities of leadership and mental health within the Special Forces community. They discuss the importance of effective communication and the need for leaders to be aware of their influence on future generations. Tyr emphasizes the necessity of focusing on the well-being of personnel over equipment, advocating for mental health support at all levels of command. The conversation also touches on the challenges of task saturation and the need for flexibility in operations, highlighting the importance of trust and empowerment within teams. As they explore the cultural stigma surrounding mental health, both speakers share personal experiences and insights on how to foster a supportive environment for service members.

109 - Rewiring the Mind After War — Nick Williams on Brain Therapy & Transition Jan 12, 2026

Show notes

Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup

Get Lesser Known Operators Gear at Colorado Custom Design – Lesser Known Operators Shop

Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout.

Brain Treatment Fayetteville Website

In this episode, Nicholas Allen interviews Nick Williams, a retired Green Beret and current manager at the Brain Treatment Center of Fayetteville. They discuss innovative brain treatment methods, particularly focusing on magnetic resonance therapy and its applications for mental health issues such as PTSD and depression. Nick shares his personal journey from military service to civilian life, the challenges faced during the transition, and the importance of community support. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of military technology, the stigma surrounding mental health treatment, and the need for open discussions about grief and healing.

108 - Nick Merrick & Green Beret Racing: Identity, Purpose & Life After Special Forces Jan 06, 2026

Show notes

Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup

Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout.

Instagram – @green_beret_racing_ Green Beret Racing Website

In this episode, Nicholas Allen interviews Nick Merrick, a former Green Beret and founder of Green Beret Racing. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, the importance of community and purpose, and the mission of Green Beret Racing to support veterans through competitive sports. Nick shares his journey of creating a nonprofit, the struggles of leadership, and the future aspirations for expanding the organization. The conversation emphasizes the significance of identity, discipline, and camaraderie in the lives of veterans.

107 - JJ Pinter & Team RWB: Community, Accountability & The GWOT 100 Dec 29, 2025

Show notes

Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup

Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout.

Instagram – @teamrwb GWOT100 Virtual Event – RunSignUp

In this conversation, JJ Pinter, the deputy director of Team RWB, shares insights into the organization's mission to support veterans through health and wellness initiatives. He discusses the challenges of nonprofit fundraising, the importance of community engagement, and the evolution of Team RWB's mission. The conversation also highlights the GWOT 100 event, which aims to engage veterans through storytelling and physical activity, while addressing the victim narrative that often surrounds veteran care. Pinter emphasizes the need for personal accountability in veterans' transitions to civilian life and the importance of maintaining a clear mission to avoid mission creep in nonprofit organizations. In this conversation, Nicholas Allen and JJ Pinter discuss the personal journey of JJ with Team RWB, the challenges of leadership in a nonprofit environment, and the importance of community and connection for veterans. They delve into the issues of mental health and substance abuse within the veteran community, highlighting the shift in conversations around these topics. The discussion also covers innovative approaches to fitness and engagement, the GWOT 100 event, and the ongoing efforts to measure success in nonprofit work. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the significance of support, connection, and personal growth in the transition from military to civilian life.

106 - From Coast Guard to Coach: Andrew Siepka on Leadership, Fitness & Healing Dec 23, 2025

Show notes

Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup

Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout.

Instagram – @siepka_ludus_

In this conversation, Andrew Siepka shares his journey from military service to becoming a strength and conditioning coach. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in coaching, resilience through hardship, and finding one's purpose. The discussion also touches on the impact of social media on fitness culture, the need for flexibility within training standards, and the significance of empowering women in the fitness industry. Andrew reflects on his experiences in the Coast Guard and the lessons learned about teamwork and personal growth. In this conversation, Andrew Siepka shares his journey from military service to civilian life, discussing the challenges of deployment, mental health struggles, and the importance of vulnerability and authenticity. He emphasizes the need for connection and community support, as well as his commitment to helping others through mentorship and fitness. The discussion highlights the impact of personal experiences on professional growth and the ongoing journey of self-discovery and healing.

105 - Stew Smith: Mobility, Mental Toughness & the Evolution of Tactical Fitness Dec 20, 2025

Show notes

Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup

Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout.

Instagram – @stewsmith50 Stew Smith Fitness Website

In this engaging conversation, Nicholas Allen interviews Stew Smith, a seasoned tactical fitness coach and author, who shares his insights on the importance of mobility in swimming, the mental toughness required for special operations, and the evolution of training methods. They discuss the challenges of training in public pools, the significance of recovery and nutrition, and how social media influences military recruitment. Stew emphasizes the need for tailored training programs and the importance of teamwork and mindset in achieving fitness goals. In this conversation, Stew Smith and Nicholas Allen discuss various aspects of military training, personal growth, and the transition from military to civilian life. They delve into swimming techniques, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges faced by veterans as they navigate their new lives. The discussion also touches on the evolution of training methods, the significance of community support, and the impact of military experiences on personal identity. Throughout the conversation, both speakers share insights and anecdotes that highlight the resilience and adaptability required in both military and civilian contexts.

104 - Michael Green on Training Civilians, Military Culture & the Dangers of Complacency Dec 15, 2025

Show notes

Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup

Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout.

Instagram – @michael.green.18f

In this conversation, Nicholas Allen and Michael Green discuss the transition from military to civilian life, the challenges of contracting, and the importance of networking and social media. They explore the significance of finding purpose after service, the role of hobbies in maintaining mental health, and the value of military experience in civilian life. The discussion also touches on leadership, personal growth, and the dangers of losing control in one's life. In this conversation, Michael Green and Nicholas Allen discuss various themes related to military experiences, the impact of toxic relationships, the challenges faced by women in the military, and the importance of quality training for civilians. They explore the evolution of military groups, the cultural differences among them, and the significance of competition in skill development. The conversation also touches on the suicide epidemic within the military community and emphasizes the need for awareness and proactive measures to address mental health issues. Ultimately, they advocate for empowering individuals through training and knowledge to enhance personal safety and self-defense capabilities.

103 - G-Chief Leather: How Chris Murillo Found Purpose Beyond the Uniform Dec 12, 2025

Show notes

Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup

Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout.

Instagram – @gchiefleather

In this episode of Lesser Known Operators, host Nicholas Allen speaks with Chris Murillo, a former Green Beret and founder of G-Chief Leather. They discuss the transition from military to civilian life, the importance of finding purpose after service, and the emotional impact of retirement. Murillo shares his journey into leather crafting and how he aims to give back to the veteran community through mentorship and craftsmanship. The conversation highlights the significance of community, the challenges of social media, and the responsibility of veterans to support one another.

102 - EDM4V: Rob Bailey on Identity, EDM, and the Iron Triangle of Veteran Healing Dec 08, 2025

Show notes

Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup

Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout.

Instagram – @edm4v

In this conversation, Nicholas Allen and Rob Bailey explore the unconventional journey from military service to the world of electronic dance music (EDM) and its therapeutic potential for veterans. Rob shares his personal experiences with mental health, identity, and purpose after leaving the military, emphasizing the importance of self-care and community. He introduces the concept of the 'Iron Triangle' as a framework for healing, which includes physical fitness, nutrition, and cognitive conditioning. The discussion highlights the significance of music as a tool for therapy and connection, particularly in the context of EDM festivals, where individuals can find solace and camaraderie. Rob's mission is to create a supportive community for veterans, helping them navigate their struggles while fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. In this conversation, Rob Bailey and Nicholas Allen explore various themes surrounding personal growth, mental health, and the importance of community support. They discuss the significance of finding the right diet for individual needs, the necessity of vulnerability in seeking help, and the challenges faced by veterans transitioning to civilian life. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of gratitude, the impact of significant emotional events, and the need for a supportive tribe. They also touch on the suicide crisis among veterans and the importance of sharing lessons learned to help others. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the journey of reclaiming identity and purpose after service, and the legacy one can create through support and understanding.

101 - Geoff Dardia: Rewiring the Warrior—Trauma, Plant Medicine & the Battle for Better Care Dec 03, 2025

Show notes

Episode Sponsor: Precision Wellness Group Website Instagram – @precisionwellnessgroup

Get your Gym Supplements at Alpha Elite Performance Website Use Code LKO15 to save 15% at checkout.

Instagram – @geoff_rdcc Instagram – @sof_health_initiative

In this episode, Nicholas Allen speaks with Geoff Dardia, founder of SOF Health Initiatives Program at Task Force Dagger, about the mental health challenges faced by veterans, particularly the impact of childhood trauma and substance abuse. They discuss the importance of community support, the need for cultural changes within the military, and the role of empathy in healing. The conversation highlights the struggles of transitioning from military to civilian life and the inadequacies of the healthcare system in addressing veterans' needs. Dardia emphasizes the importance of open conversations about mental health and the need for veterans to seek help and support from their communities. In this conversation, Geoff Dardia discusses the multifaceted approach to healing from lead toxicity, the impact of media and targeted marketing on health perceptions, and the importance of navigating the VA healthcare system effectively. He emphasizes the need for community involvement and political engagement to drive systemic change in healthcare. Dardia also shares his journey in founding Soft Health Initiatives, highlighting the effects of chronic stress and toxicity on health, the flaws in modern medicine, and the ethical considerations surrounding plant medicine. The conversation culminates in a call to action for individuals to take control of their health and advocate for better systems.

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