The Soldier Fund Podcast

This conversation gets underneath the surface of what draws a man into Special Forces—and what it actually takes to stay there. It moves past the mythology and into something far more grounded: the internal wiring required to operate in uncertainty, to manage yourself when no one is giving feedback, and to make decisions that don’t always end in clean outcomes. In this episode, Ben sits down with...

In this episode, Ben sits down with a National Guard Special Forces Master Sergeant with over 20 years in the Army and seven combat deployments. They talk about what it actually feels like when it gets real — the first firefight, improvised armor, insurgency warfare, and the quiet reality of putting your hands on a wounded man and hoping he makes it. But this conversation isn’t about glory. It’s a...

In this episode of The Soldier Fund Podcast, Ben Derrick sits down with Jordan Jones for a candid response to the Netflix documentary In Waves and War and the conversation it has sparked inside the Special Operations community. Together, they explore why the film resonates so deeply with operators—and why awareness alone is not enough. Drawing from lived experience, the conversation exposes the hi...

After a long and unexpected break, Ben returns to share why the TSF Podcast went quiet this year—and why it’s coming back stronger. In this candid update, he reflects on the health crisis that forced him to slow down, the lessons learned along the way, and what’s ahead for The Soldier Fund. Ben previews an upcoming December conversation with Jordan Jones on In Waves and War, the realities facing N...

Ben Derrick hosts a podcast discussing the experiences of CSM Jeff Dawson who transitioned from an ODA to an administrative role. CSM, who served from 1981 to 2004, emphasizes the emotional challenges of leaving a team and the importance of maintaining a sense of purpose. He highlights the need for accountability, the concept of "skirting the gray," and the significance of mental health support. T...

CSM Dawson recounts his journey in the Special Forces. He describes the rigorous Q Course, including phase one's six-week beatdown and phase two's field exercises. Dawson highlights his role as a radio operator. He details his experience with the Green Light team, including the challenges of carrying a 65-pound bomb and the stringent security protocols. To learn more about our mission and support...

Ben Derrick and Jordan Jones discuss the importance of their podcast, which highlights the lives and missions of National Guard Special Forces. They welcome Jeff, a new strength and conditioning coach, who shares his background in kinesiology and his transition to the National Guard. Jeff emphasizes the need for tailored training programs to prevent overuse injuries and improve overall performance...

This episode, Frank Rossi discusses the history and evolution of Special Forces, emphasizing their unique role as the commando arm of the CIA. He recounts his uncle's experience in the OSS. Rossi details his own journey into Special Forces, highlighting the rigorous selection process and the importance of teamwork and cultural understanding. He reflects on the impact of the Reagan era on Special F...

In this episode, Ben Derrick and Jordan Jones explore the challenges and motivations of a Green Beret who joined the military at 18 and transitioned to Special Forces after a decade in the National Guard. He shares how family support, especially from his wife, has been a cornerstone of his career. The discussion delves into the rigorous training and evaluation processes, including the Special Forc...

In this episode of the Soldier Fund Podcast, Ben Derrick and Jordan Jones discuss the mindset and experiences of a Special Forces operator with 23 years of service. The guest, SFC W.D., shares his journey from joining the Marines in 2001 to becoming a Scout Sniper and eventually a Green Beret. They delve into the concept of discipline, defining it as doing the right thing even when it's hard, and...

Scott Mann, a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the US Army, discusses his extensive military career, particularly his service in Special Forces and his time in Afghanistan. He emphasizes the importance of building rapport and understanding human nature, using metaphors like John Wick, Lawrence of Arabia, and the Verizon guy to illustrate the complex skills of Green Berets. Mann highlights the moral...

This episode delves into the complexities of helathcare for the National Guard soldier, focusing on the challenges soldiers face in seeking healthcare and navigating the system. Our guests, including a former 18 Delta current PA, an Army PA with a SOF background, and a nurse case manager, discuss the importance of seeking care, enrolling in healthcare systems like TRICARE and VA, and understanding...

In Episode 5 of the Soldier Fund Podcast, Ben Derrick and Jordan discuss the unique aspects of leadership within the National Guard Special Forces community. They highlight the importance of relationship-building and the personal nature of leadership in Special Forces. The guest, a Sergeant Major with over 20 years of service, shares his journey, emphasizing the evolution of his leadership style f...

Ben Derrick interviews an E7 in the Army, discussing his experiences in the National Guard Special Operations. The speaker recounts his first deployment in 2012, highlighting the high operational tempo and the impact of losing Green Berets early on. He emphasizes the importance of transitioning back to civilian life slowly, especially after a challenging deployment. The conversation touches on the...

Dr. Frueh, a psychologist, discusses his work with military populations, particularly focusing on "Operator Syndrome," a term he coined to describe the unique challenges special operations personnel face. He highlights common symptoms like traumatic brain injury, sleep disturbances, hormonal dysregulation, and cognitive impairments. Dr. Frueh emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to treatmen...

The Soldier Fund Podcast episode features Ben Derrick interviewing two National Guard Special Forces soldiers about their experiences and the unique challenges they face. The soldiers discuss their career paths, including the rigorous selection process and the physical and mental demands of their roles. They highlight the importance of teamwork, language proficiency, and cultural understanding in...

Action Items Advocate for dedicated caseworkers to help guide injured soldiers through the medical system and ensure they receive all necessary treatments and referrals. Provide monetary assistance and volunteer caseworkers to supplement existing resources and help soldiers rapidly access specialized care and navigate bureaucracy. Educate politicians and civilians about the unique challenges faced...