Key Moments
Jocko Willink, Matt McCusker & Jeff Dye - Mostly Wise #3
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Key Moments
The military is experimenting with weaponized dolphins and bio-engineered pathogens that induce euphoria to create super-spreaders, revealing an unsettling frontier where ethics clash with technological warfare advancements.
Key Insights
The US Navy Marine Mammal Program, established in the 1960s, continues to train dolphins and other mammals for military tasks like finding underwater mines and protecting ships, and this technology was discussed in a US military briefing regarding a standoff with Iran.
SEAL selection has a cut-off age around 31, with rare waivers up to 33, primarily because the body becomes more fragile with age, exemplified by a 21-year-old bouncing off a 30-50 foot cargo net, a feat a 38-year-old would likely not survive.
SLA Marshall's theory that only 10% of soldiers fired their weapons in combat during WWII was debunked; he was a journalist who hyped a story, leading to the military using man-shaped silhouettes for target practice to condition soldiers.
A 25mm sniper rifle, deemed unmanageable by trained snipers due to its concussive force, was successfully fired by one exceptionally tough individual three times on target, who then advised against its mass production, highlighting the extreme human limits required for such weaponry.
The Russia-Ukraine conflict has revolutionized warfare, with drone technology advancing so rapidly that fiber optic cables 60km long are now used to control drones, creating a 'capitalism warfare' environment where rapid adaptation and innovation are critical for success.
A Brazilian clinic reportedly charges up to $13,000 for hymen reconstruction surgery, with many patients being women over 30 seeking a 'fresh start' before serious relationships, highlighting societal pressures around past sexual activity.
Military exploits of marine mammals and extreme human resilience
The discussion unveils the surprising reality of military-trained marine mammals, with the US Navy Marine Mammal Program, dating back to the 1960s, utilizing dolphins and other creatures for tasks such as locating underwater mines and protecting naval assets. This technology, including its potential role in current geopolitical tensions, was mentioned in a US military briefing concerning a standoff with Iran. Beyond animal capabilities, the conversation explored human limits in elite military selection. SEAL training, for instance, has a strict age cut-off around 31, with only rare exceptions up to 33. This is largely due to the body's increased fragility with age, contrasted with the extraordinary resilience of younger candidates. A notable anecdote involved a 21-year-old recruit who fell from a 30-50 foot cargo net during training, only to bounce back and continue, a feat that would likely result in severe injury or worse for someone 15 years older. This highlights the profound physical demands and the 'rubber and magic' constitution of younger individuals in such rigorous environments.
The weapon too powerful for all but one
A story about a 25mm sniper rifle illustrates the extreme physical and mental toll of advanced weaponry. Designed as a potentially viable option, this massive rifle proved too much for even experienced sniper school students, who struggled to fire it accurately due to the intense shockwave and concussive impact. They would fire one round, become petrified, and refuse to continue. However, one exceptionally tough and 'crazy' individual, a senior instructor at the sniper school, successfully fired three consecutive rounds on target. Despite this demonstration of its potential, he unequivocally advised against manufacturing the weapon, recognizing that the human element required to wield it effectively was too rare and too destructive to the user. This anecdote underscores the point that sheer physical and mental fortitude can push human limits beyond what weapon designers anticipate, but often at an unsustainable cost to the individual.
The evolving landscape of modern warfare
Modern warfare is undergoing a rapid transformation, as evidenced by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The emergence of drones has completely reshaped battlefields, with constant innovation in their deployment and countermeasures. Early radio-controlled drones were quickly jammed, leading to the development of drones controlled by fiber optic cables, some up to 60km long, creating a vast, intricate network across combat zones. This rapid technological race is described as 'capitalism warfare,' where the speed of adaptation and resource allocation to successful new tactics determines success. Unlike previous conflicts where technological cycles might span months, these advancements and counter-advancements are occurring at a dramatically accelerated pace, fundamentally altering military strategy and the types of companies valued in defense.
The psychological toll of military service and its outlets
Military personnel, particularly those in special operations, often possess an inherent aggression and drive that, in peacetime, can lead to destructive behaviors if not properly channeled. These 'weapons' need an outlet beyond conflict. While some find release in physical activities like Jiu-Jitsu, boxing, or wrestling, others may struggle, leading to disciplinary issues. The military recognizes this, even indicating such struggles through 'red stripes' on uniforms for those with poor conduct, suggesting a tolerance for such behavior in individuals valuable in combat. The need for aggressive individuals during wartime is critical, but managing them in times of peace poses a significant challenge. The military acts as a structured outlet for many young men, providing discipline and purpose that might otherwise lead to criminal activity. However, leadership must provide appropriate avenues for aggression, lest these individuals become uncontrollable, potentially leading to incidents like bar fights or more severe misconduct.
Societal pressures, sobriety, and modern dating
Jeff Dye shares his journey to sobriety, motivated by a dramatic incident involving an arrest and car crash. He highlights that while drinking offers positive experiences, for him, it led to problematic behaviors. His sobriety, which began after this incident and was solidified by public humiliation, has been transformative, leading to increased physical activity and a fondness for cigars. However, he notes the challenges of sober dating, humorously comparing it to 'Love on the Spectrum' due to the directness and awkwardness without alcohol as a social lubricant. The conversation also touches on the problematic aspects of 'Love on the Spectrum,' criticizing its potentially exploitative nature, lack of payment to participants, and condescending portrayal of adults with autism. The speakers argue that the show trivializes genuine struggles by prioritizing entertainment over the dignity and well-being of its subjects, especially by exposing them to high-pressure situations despite their documented sensitivities to bright lights and loud noises.
Questionable 'self-improvement' and the absurdity of modern trends
The discussion delves into various questionable trends, including a Brazilian clinic offering hymen reconstruction surgery for up to $13,000 to women over 30 seeking a 'fresh start' for their body count. This practice is decried as a scam preying on societal pressures and insecurities. Another trend, 'cacao ceremonies,' involves drinking hot chocolate with participants claiming profound, psychedelic-like experiences, often seen as a milder, more socially acceptable form of altered consciousness. The absurdity of these trends is juxtaposed with the panelists' experiences, from debating the physical properties of igloos to taking selfies for age verification on adult content websites. These discussions underscore a recurring theme of people seeking unusual or extreme ways to address personal or societal issues, often with commercial interests capitalizing on these desires.
The shifting nature of military truth and benefits
The military's approach to truth and benefits is explored, with a debunking of SLA Marshall's widely accepted theory that only 10% of WWII soldiers fired their weapons. This theory, propagated by a journalist-turned-reservist, led to the military incorporating man-shaped targets for conditioning, though it was later revealed to be largely sensationalism. The conversation highlights the strong military reverence in the US, contrasting it with the UK where military service may not receive the same 'pedestalization.' US veterans enjoy significant benefits, including the VA loan for no-money-down housing and lifetime health benefits, though the quality of VA services can vary. The pride associated with military service also carries a caveat: a strong disdain for 'stolen valor,' where individuals falsely claim combat experience or greater service than they rendered, underscoring a deep respect for authentic sacrifice and experience.
Personal struggles, technological advancement, and an uncertain future
The episode concludes with a blend of personal insights and future-gazing. Jeff's challenges with relationships stem from a skepticism towards traditional romance and a desire for personal freedom, while Jocko emphasizes the importance of a committed partner for personal stability, acknowledging that he himself often doesn't need external motivation due to his disciplined nature. The conversation then pivots to the unpredictable nature of global events, from the financial crisis to the Russia-Ukraine war, stressing that no one can truly predict outcomes. The rapid technological advancements, especially in drone warfare and bioweaponry, are highlighted as significant game-changers, with the potential for engineered pathogens causing euphoria to accelerate their spread. Despite these grave concerns, there's also discussion of the potential benefits of psychedelic therapy for PTSD among veterans, underscoring a complex interplay between human vulnerability, technological progress, and the perennial search for meaning and healing in a constantly evolving world.
Mentioned in This Episode
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●Software & Apps
●Companies
●Organizations
●Books
●Drugs & Medications
●Concepts
●People Referenced
Common Questions
While the initial physical requirements are not exceptionally high, SEAL training is physically brutal, designed to break candidates down. Mental toughness is equally crucial, as even highly capable individuals quit, proving it's about not giving up when physically exhausted.
Topics
Mentioned in this video
Creator of XFL, who tried to start a football league similar to NFL Blitz.
A female UFC fighter mentioned as one of the biggest stars in the world, highlighting skill over gender in sports.
Co-founder of Momentous, who played in the NFL and built the company on higher standards due to varying supplement quality.
A neuroscientist and dolphin researcher, whose name is associated with military dolphin programs.
Founder of Oculus and Anduril, known for his insights on military applications of technology.
A famous death zone mountaineer with a Netflix documentary, who passed away mountaineering.
Author of 'Into Thin Air', who wrote about the dangers of Everest, inadvertently increasing its popularity.
A hip-hop group, at whose concert a speaker got kicked out due to being on Adderall and alcohol.
Son of Joe Biden, mentioned in the context of a potential podcast guest and his past drug use.
A journalist known for Vice documentaries about drugs, who explained the properties of 7-hydroxymitragynine.
Author and investigative journalist who discussed biological warfare and a Russian weapon engineered with euphoria as a side effect.
CEO of OpenAI, mentioned for his comments on using modafinil to extend productive hours during his time at Y Combinator.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whose CNN interview discussing a future pandemic is mentioned.
A former special forces individual mentioned for his extreme pain management and medication use to stay in the game.
Author of 'The Next 100 Years', who accurately predicted the Russia-Ukraine conflict years in advance.
Actor starring in the movie adaptation of Jocko Willink's 'Way of the Warrior Kid' books.
Author of a book and theories claiming only 10% of soldiers fired their weapons in combat, later debunked.
Investor known for his bet against the housing market, dramatized in 'The Big Short'.
A famous pop singer, mentioned in an unconfirmed story about missing a meeting at the World Trade Center on 9/11 due to oversleeping.
A trader known for short-selling and making a significant profit during COVID by betting against the market, earning him the nickname 'new big short'.
Creator of Family Guy, mentioned for narrowly missing a 9/11 flight that hit the South Tower due to his assistant's mistake.
A professional American football league that Vince McMahon tried to start, known for its chaotic rules.
A professional wrestling promotion, whose internal memos were jokingly compared to XFL ideas.
National Football League, mentioned in relation to Jeff Byers playing in it and Momentous being trusted in its locker rooms.
An organization that certifies products for public health and safety, mentioned in relation to Momentous supplements being NSF certified for sports.
A program by the US Navy that trains dolphins for military work like finding underwater mines and protecting ships, confirmed to still exist.
A media company known for its documentaries, specifically those about drugs by Hamilton Morris.
Women's National Basketball Association, discussed in the context of trans athletes and general interest in women's sports.
A news television channel where RFK Jr. was interviewed about future pandemics.
Ultimate Fighting Championship, mentioned in discussion of female fighters like Ronda Rousey.
A militant Sunni Islamist multi-national organization founded in 1988 by Osama bin Laden, mentioned as driving insurgency in Iraq.
A brand of watches, one of which was purchased by a speaker as a 'Navy Seals' watch.
A streaming service where a documentary about Navy SEALs was seen, which angered a speaker about hazing practices.
A supplement company praised for its evidence-backed ingredients, transparent doses, independent third-party testing, and NSF certification.
An e-commerce company, whose delivery person is mentioned in a humorous context regarding working dogs.
A defense technology company founded by Palmer Luckey, with the tagline 'fight unfair', noted for its rapid innovation in military tech.
A health platform that provides access to over 160 advanced lab tests for hormones, heart health, kidney function, and early cancer signals, offered at an affordable price.
A social media platform mentioned as a place where comedians often meet women after shows.
A multi-level marketing company that Bill Ackman famously short-sold against.
A large defense contractor, mentioned as an example of traditional defense companies that need to adapt to rapid technological changes in warfare.
Platform where the movie adaptation of Jocko Willink's kids' books will be released.
A startup accelerator where Sam Altman discussed productivity with modafinil.
Production company making the movie adaptation of Jocko Willink's kids' books.
A movie about criminals being used for a military mission, used as an analogy for utilizing aggressive individuals in the military.
A movie about a dog playing basketball, jokingly referenced as a female dog breaking boundaries.
A reality TV show about autistic individuals dating, criticized for being exploitative and condescending.
A movie watched on a bad date, which the speaker enjoyed but couldn't finish due to his date leaving.
An animated television series created by Seth MacFarlane.
A VR headset created by Palmer Luckey, mentioned as an example of his technological ventures.
A smart mattress cover that cools or heats each side of the bed, tracks health data, and is clinically proven to improve sleep.
A brand of chocolate milk powder, jokingly compared to the hot chocolate used in cacao ceremonies.
The world's highest mountain, discussed in the context of extreme climbing feats, documentaries, and the dangers involved.
A city in the Netherlands known for its liberal drug policies, specifically regarding mushrooms and truffles.
The complex of buildings in New York City targeted during the 9/11 attacks, also discussed in the context of insurance claims related to the event.
A borough of New York City, discussed in the context of personal experiences during 9/11 and its dense urban environment.
A country in Central America, referenced as an example of a short military operation.
A country in the Middle East, discussed in the context of military deployments, the Iraq War, and sectarian conflicts.
An island nation in the Caribbean, referenced as an example of a short military operation.
A book by Jon Krakauer about the dangers of climbing Mount Everest.
A book written by a speaker (Jocko Willink) about taking ownership of situations, referenced in the context of handling public embarrassment.
A movie about Michael Burry's bet against the housing market, used as a comparison for Bill Ackman's successful COVID-era trade.
A series of children's books written by Jocko Willink, which are being adapted into a movie.
A book that predicted the Russia-Ukraine conflict, suggesting Russia's need for a secure border through Ukraine.
A stimulant medication, compared to cocaine, which a speaker tried and had negative experiences with, including getting kicked out of a concert.
A medication that can cause fatal withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.
Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, a precursor to THC found in raw cannabis, which became legally available through Farm Bill loopholes.
A wakefulness-promoting drug mentioned in the context of extending productive hours in high-pressure tech environments.
A set of international treaties that establish standards of international law for humanitarian treatment in war, mentioned as a boundary in military ethics.
US legislation that allowed for the growth of CBD and indirectly made regular weed legal for several years due to loopholes with THCA.
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