My Unconventional Journey To Becoming a SEAL | Ep. 263 | Pt. 1 episode artwork

EPISODE · Oct 28, 2025 · 1H 11M

My Unconventional Journey To Becoming a SEAL | Ep. 263 | Pt. 1

from Mike Drop · host Mike Ritland

From a troubled youth in Vermont, where a brush with the dangerous world of drug dealing nearly derailed his life, Alex found redemption through the grueling trials of SEAL training and a 12-year career with SEAL Team Three. His journey from chaos to discipline, marked by raw honesty and resilience, sets the stage for a candid conversation about overcoming adversity and finding purpose. Alex opens up about a pivotal moment that changed his trajectory: a terrifying robbery attempt that left him confronting his choices and their impact on his family. This wake-up call propelled him toward the military, where he embraced the challenges of BUD/S and emerged as a SEAL. Alongside his military insights, Alex shares his passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), his current pursuit as a competitor, and his entrepreneurial venture with LFW Clothing Company. His story is a testament to the power of grit and self-discovery. Join Mike and Alex as they dive into the highs and lows of a life shaped by intense experiences, from the streets of Vermont to the battlefields of Iraq. With humor, vulnerability, and hard-earned wisdom, Alex reflects on his SEAL career, personal growth, and the mental health struggles that continue to challenge him. This episode is a raw, inspiring exploration of what it means to keep moving forward, no matter the odds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From a troubled youth in Vermont, where a brush with the dangerous world of drug dealing nearly derailed his life, Alex found redemption through the grueling trials of SEAL training and a 12-year career with SEAL Team Three. His journey from chaos to discipline, marked by raw honesty and resilience, sets the stage for a candid conversation about overcoming adversity and finding purpose. Alex opens up about a pivotal moment that changed his trajectory: a terrifying robbery attempt that left him confronting his choices and their impact on his family. This wake-up call propelled him toward the military, where he embraced the challenges of BUD/S and emerged as a SEAL. Alongside his military insights, Alex shares his passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), his current pursuit as a competitor, and his entrepreneurial venture with LFW Clothing Company. His story is a testament to the power of grit and self-discovery. Join Mike and Alex as they dive into the highs and lows of a life shaped by intense experiences, from the streets of Vermont to the battlefields of Iraq. With humor, vulnerability, and hard-earned wisdom, Alex reflects on his SEAL career, personal growth, and the mental health struggles that continue to challenge him. This episode is a raw, inspiring exploration of what it means to keep moving forward, no matter the odds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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This episode was published on October 28, 2025.

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From a troubled youth in Vermont, where a brush with the dangerous world of drug dealing nearly derailed his life, Alex found redemption through the grueling trials of SEAL training and a 12-year career with SEAL Team Three. His journey from chaos...

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