Cleared Hot Episode 227 - Matthew Cole

[@johnnyjohnston6919]

I can't believe how enjoyable it is to watch two bright guys have a calm rational conversation about a difficult topic.

[@Scottysevins]

Agreed. That is the way it should be. Most people can’t handle it unfortunately

[@rezzyn94]

Two bright guys lol fuck no. This dude is defaming people and outing them and at the same time using their stories and feats to make money

[@enduser6996]

Right? I’ve watched this video several times. I really like this guy

[@jackharle1251]

Same liar who got John Kariaku jailed.

[@leelotungal819]

I respect the journalist so much for having the balls to literally sit down with an ex member of the very unit he's criticizing. Good job Andy!

[@KC-UT4rmAZ]

I think a huge reason for that is because he wrote his book from the heart and not from hate. And Matt had nothing hide or be ashamed of because of that.

[@isaaclosh8082]

There's no such thing as "ex" it's "former" it's never "ex"

[@aegonbreakspear9102]

He wrote about DEVGRU, Andy was a officer in Seal Team 5. Plus Andy is an unbelievable person, he is as level headed and kind hearted as it gets.

[@leelotungal819]

@@aegonbreakspear9102 My friend you're a little off now. Andy was DEVGRU before being an officer. He got shot during a night raid in Iraq as a DEVGRU assaulter.

[@wolf7el356]

@@KC-UT4rmAZ The part that continuously has flown over a lot of SEAL sniffers heads is that Matt wrote this book with the overwhelming majority of his sources were both former & current active duty SEALS & DEVGRU members. He wasn't just some hateful reporter that wanted to trash the SEALS & in particular DEVGRU, he spoke to actual Operators who were members & got their firsthand account of what THEY believe is most wrong within the community.

[@mrs8171]

HUGE RESPECT to you Andy for having Matt on. You continue to have guest's on who may or may not be controversial, or with whom you may not agree, but you have the balls to do it. Well done.

[@darrenfuller2564]

Look what happens when 2 curious adults get in a room and have a conversation. Fantastic interview Andy. Thank you

[@phantomopera5525]

Why not take a moment to acknowledge that conversations like this and investigations like the ones undertaken by Mr. Cole can only happen in a democratic country ruled by law, as imperfect as it may be. And rejoice at the thought.

[@RockGlock10]

Why not celebrate freedom and critique this hit piece? That is the true measure of freedom.

[@Becarhodzic]

@@RockGlock10 Why do you say that like that isn’t happening with this book? From what I see it very much is!

[@RockGlock10]

@@Becarhodzic I suspect you “see” the things David Phillips of NYT said of Gallagher happening too, right? And, by the way, which stuff, specifically, do you “see” happening. We’re you present or are you one of the “sources” Cole claims to have talked to for his story?

[@RealRavi]

@@Becarhodzic I read the book. The stuff claimed is completely plausible and not totally out of character for a subgroup of dudes in tough situations. What I’m saying is it didn’t come off as hyperbole or overly disrespectful. Sounded more like there was some internal conflict within the seal teams with some doing some dodgy things and others trying to police that stuff. It’s what one would expect i guess.

[@Becarhodzic]

@@RockGlock10 All I said is that the book is very much being critiqued…. Which it should be as should all books this sensitive. As far as the Eddie Gallagher I listened to a all of the podcast he’s been on. Pretty clear he got fucked by the Navy. When it comes to me I believe the Geneva Convention and other documents like it that have so called “rules of war” in them are laughable, and the only military to follow it to a great extent in the US Military. But back to my original point. This books is most definitely being critiqued!

[@nicks3350]

“What’s the most popular war movie in American film history” I completely expected Andy to say “Navy Seals, starring Charlie Sheen” 😂

[@parklloyd6690]

Maybe Andy wasn't thinking documentaries, like "Navy Seals starring Charlie Sheen" was. Lol.

[@LeSnickasaurus]

I was expecting “Platoon”

[@Kwisatz_HaderachXIII]

I thought he was going to say Star Wars

[@Abefroman-lq3md]

“Shaving Private Ryan’s Ball” because you American military are just a bunch of limp wristed Nancy bois.

[@cjlavesser]

This conversation should serve as a model for many other conversations this country needs to have. Bravo Zulu, Andy.

[@appa561]

well versed... those conversations need to cross many, many different segments of our country.

[@shawnfields6794]

I've gotta say, I really respect this journalist. What i mean is, he seems to be able to own up to his shortcomings. He seems to show respect to Andy when Andy disagrees with him. And vice versa of course. A real breath of fresh air in modern journalism given where our current state of "journalistic affairs" is at. Great podcast. Top 5 Cleared Hot episodes if you ask me. #1 is Micah Fink.

[@aarone1981]

He is very thorough... I hope he does a book on CAG. I thought they were invincible until I stumbled upon the Lindsay Knapp rape case. What a disaster that was, there is a very long, excellent article about it in Rolling Stone

[@cluisdotorg]

Agreed. With the state of journalism these days I would take this guy and how he carries himself even if he was total shit as a writer. He has the right correctional framework to offset any mistake he may make. Turns out he is a solid writer as well, so bonus.

[@franklinsalazarcostas5231]

Absolutely! Great Podcast and I also have Micah's as my #1

[@mattwallyy7047]

Micah Fink on Jocko is amazing as well

[@srsmedic8285]

@@aarone1981 holy shit.. I just looked up the case you were talking about. Who the fuck would even want this guy on a team with them? Especially with clear evidence? I can see if it were pure.. he said.. she said.. but that isn’t the facts in that case. Fuck me thats shitty

[@bscott8383]

It's truly satisfying to see 2 Patriots ,from opposite backgrounds and life experience, having a civil conversation of such importance. Outstanding!

[@Becarhodzic]

Why are you so sure that Matthew Cole is a patriot? I’m not saying he’s not, but why do you think he is?

[@tracymorgansbelly3322]

Theres definitely only one patriot on this podcast

[@brendondowdy5651]

​@tracymorgansbelly3322 are you implying that Andy isn't a patriot?

[@jcham979]

Because questioning authority and being critical is one of the most patriotic acts someone can do. If you truly believe in the importance of maintaining a moral high ground, ethics and integrity are important. Those at the tip of the spear are held to a high standard and not just by their superiors but to our nation. 20 years of war will galvanize bad elements of a culture and Cole is doing his part as an American to bring some of these issues to light. @@Becarhodzic

[@gapshot5065]

@@jcham979this guy voted for Biden he’s no patriot🤣🤣🤣

[@wolf7el356]

One of the things that alot of people who are highly critical of Matt keep overlooking is that he wrote this book while speaking directly to both former & current active duty SEALS & DEVGRU members & told THEIR story of what THEY felt was wrong within the community & the lack of accountability. Here's what a lot of yall SEAL worshippers have to come to terms with; *MANY SEALS THEMSELVES BOTH IN & OUT OF DEVGRU DO NOT AGREE WITH ALL THE ACTIONS & TACTICS THAT THEY USE TO ACHIEVE THEIR MISSION GOALS. THERE ARE SEVERAL SEALS WHO ARE CRITICAL OF THE SEALS WITHIN THE COMMUNITY, THEY'RE NOT ALL SUPERHEROES*

[@flowpuppie84]

Why you yelling bruh

[@wolf7el356]

@flowpuppie84 Because I got sick of reading all these comments of people criticizing Matt, acting as if he made all these stories up himself.

[@danpark417]

What an excellent civilized conversation between someone who has the experience in the SEAL organization and somebody who investigates the organization. Bravo!

[@chaunceywilliams8405]

I played the drinking game while listening to this podcast. Every time Matthew uttered the words " as a journalist" I had a drink. At about the two hours forty-five-minute mark. I passed away peacefully from severe alcohol poisoning. That being said, great podcast gentlemen.

[@davidhopkins7215]

Hopefully, you passed peacefully, and nobody tried to grapple with you to your death. If so Cole would write a hit piece about it, and then not want them prosecuted, just sent back to 1st grade. R I P BROTHER. 🥲

[@ryanhyderh]

RIP

[@Whispers_of_Madness]

Yikes

[@carneasada6846]

LMAO

[@strangerthanfriction9016]

I'm not a journalist but something about your comment doesn't add up

[@dermotrees9873]

A journalist with integrity. Not many about these days.

[@thecalculator1000]

Mathew is an incredibly thoughtful person. Likewise Andy is wonderfully curious but also clear in his appraisal of Mathew's work. A great discussion. An example for everyone about how to approach a difficult and complex issue. Thank you.

[@artvandelay6306]

I think, what make me a repeat viewer and subscriber is that Andy is really able to sit down and have a civilized discussion with his guests. No talking over them. No interrupting them. Even if he doesn't agree with them, he is able to calmly articulate why. This is an exceedingly rare quality. One of which I myself certainly do not possess (but, I am actively trying to work on. Great interview, as always, Andy!

[@Hogavich]

This was REALLY good. Let me say why Andy. You really shined having a guest who is coming from a different perspective. Also, I can see how more and more guests like this will bring this podcast to even more people. Well done!

[@georgeraguz5489]

Mr. Cole: now do Washington DC Andy: your patience and grace are really inspiring

[@davidhopkins7215]

I wish he would, but unfortunately it would be politically slanted, like most of his other pieces.

[@timbartlett4898]

My thoughts exactly…If one is compelled to write about corruption politicians would be an unlimited source

[@bestjobieverhad9584]

That needs to be forced

[@bestjobieverhad9584]

@@timbartlett4898 they would get something on him. We need someone who has no attachment with anyone or anything

[@jaybee4281]

@@bestjobieverhad9584 you mean someone the Clintons can't kill

[@FJ24.]

Saw this guy on the team house podcast and was hoping someone like Andy would have him on

[@pwr2al4]

Same. This may get spicy. Or maybe Andy just confirms everything he has been saying.

[@superkool7]

Dude same! Can’t wait to dive in. I’m supposed to be studying! Lol

[@jeffdavis7616]

It was interesting how he softened his vitriol with a team 6 guy sitting across the table it was odd he wasn't calling Luttrell a coward and a liar here like he did on the Team House podcast . Also a simple Google search proved that this guy is a bald face liar. Saving Private Ryan is the highest grossing war movie by a long shot. American sniper was even in the top 10.

[@mikecollard3783]

@@jeffdavis7616 he basically acknowledged the Luttrell story as it is told isn't accurate and Andy didn't rebutt. Not saying Andy is endorsing it but the undercurrent that has said Luttrells story is false has been around since 2016, at least when I first heard it.

[@aarone1981]

@@mikecollard3783 Lone Survivor was an amazing book, one of my favorites! However, upon further investigation, it was like 20-30 Taliban, not 200 firing down upon the Seals... Were there other discrepancies?

[@bobmitchel664]

This was a fascinating conversation. I don't agree with all of Mr. Cole's points nor all of Andy's but I respect both. We need more conversations like this. Well done gentlemen.

[@madhousemilitia82]

This was a really interesting episode. This for me was one of Andy's most interesting/polarizing guests along with Eric Prince. I hope he brings him back on.

[@manhalen7046]

He was only polarizing if your a simpleton and already assigned yourself a narrative for how thing are and should be.

[@unluckytourist]

When I saw that name, my brain went "oh, hey, that's the same name as the intercept guy". I actually half expected Andy to have him on, because he seems to be happy hosting some very "spicy" guests.

[@andrewscanlon7823]

I know I'm a couple years late but I just read the book and have been watching interviews. It's refreshing to see two guys who don't see eye to eye on everything have a rational respectful conversation.

[@busbey61]

Andy is a great podcast host, definitely top 5 to me. I have no doubt Andy will be professional when need to and will add humor at the appropriate times. I doubt there will be an argument, not here for that. I like most, I would assume, are looking for a civil and respectful conversation of two opposing views (one having first hand experience).

[@2ndwavestrength]

Andy you did an excellent job having a hard conversation. I am a new fan of yours. Maybe not your typical listener as I am a 50 yr old single mom of 2 grown kids. I am an ER nurse. I followed Evy P. To your show and stayed for more. Love your style.

[@jasonliddell379]

Great podcast, thank you for not letting him get away with his over statements and all inclusive speech. He back petals a lot when he was pushed on issues.

[@marianomelendez666]

Agreed. The Team House interview made me buy the book, and in this podcast, his premises are challenged. Very interesting.

[@pauljamesharper]

Highly recommend the book 'A Tactical Ethic; Moral Conduct on the Insurgent Battlefield' by Vietnam era Navy SEAL Dick Couch. He was raising these issues back in 2010. Great Interview. I also watched the Team House Interview. I think both podcasts are as excellent.

[@genore1993]

What a god damn name! Hell yeah. I'm gonna dick my couch in his spirit.

[@808INFantry11X]

I love that book it was that book and the ending of inside delta force that got me thinking about battlefield ethics. It's so important in the long run but often misunderstood.

[@glennmontague4310]

Thanks for this! It takes real courage and commitment to the truth to have an interview like this one. (And, as an prior service nuke, I know a little bit about how elite cultures work.) I also think that an important corellary to this topic is to evaluate how the perception that this is what the coolest of cool guys are doing shape the broader culture: police and paramilitary folks. And the perception doesn't take into account the relatively small infection of this virus. This is the most important interview I have listened to in a long time in terms of its systemic implication (and the not narrowly the ST6 stuff; also the stuff on the way knowledge about ground truth decays, and about the trauma of a 20 yr war).

[@RyanSackettSMS]

This is going to be interesting for sure just got done listening to this guy's book. Happy Monday cleared hot fam!

[@deediddy]

A true journalist is a watchdog for the people. I think unlike most that claim to be journalists this man fills the bill.

[@metalgreyfox]

I can only hope that this level of respect can bleed into the rest of the population through a medium like KZbin and other social media. Phenomenal episode and tremendous amounts of respect for both of you. Cheers.

[@Vnachi8]

Andy was protecting the brand in his own way and Matthew was to timid in promoting the grissle of his book. Almost a 4 hour podcast and the deep dive on the book never happened. I would have loved to have seen specific cases from the book discussed.

[@chunnjos]

Well put.

[@BlueMax717]

What is there to discuss about the book? Matthew got his information directly from the guys whose hands made that unit. Officers who ran it. etc etc. As much as someone wants to dive in to the book, them discussing events in that book wont accomplish anything. Sure you can argue over the "culture" but ultimately thats not the issue with the book. The issues are some of the things that were exposed. You can not justify it in any capacity, and I don't care if you were in that unit or not. Andy is smart and he knows that. That's why they focused on having a deeper conversation. POV explanations on their ideologies. It's a much deeper conversation than the book. Andy did really well I think.

[@iusefloorbbs3102]

Check out the Team House podcast, it goes a lot more in depth.

[@Djamieson713]

He was too timid because he’s a coward, who hates this country and should probably leave. Oh wait he won’t because he’s a coward.

[@Vnachi8]

@@Djamieson713 being a coward doesn’t make him wrong.

[@unknownuser105]

Episodes like this is why Andy and the Cleared Hot Podcast is the best. A majority of people would come at this with a “how dare this nerd judge the seals for doing what needed to be done” attitude. But not Andy. He sits down and has a thoughtful conversation for damn near 4hrs.

[@katyg3873]

That’s the point. They didn’t need to hack up bodies or skin insurgents post mortem. The problem isn’t that guys go too far, I mean it is but it should be somewhat expected from 20 years in combat. The problem come is trying to point out is the inherent coverup ethic that is prevalent in NSW. Even to this day, despite isr footage to the contrary, NSW are STILL lying about what happened to cct chapman on takur ghar.

[@zixuanchun5273]

Thank you. Andy's "what you tolerate" and "silence is complicity" sealed the deal. Standing up to my boss who I have an issue with for disrespecting/bully customers. Much appreciated

[@XXNerdzillaXX]

Not my business, but how'd that go for ya? I'm genuinely curious. I hope it went well for you. I'm assuming you already did since you posted this several days ago.

[@user-kj3mw4hr9r]

We all gained a lot from your guys willingness to have this conversation and share (and most importantly listen to) each others experiences. Thank you guys.

[@RuachNation82]

This was a very interesting dialogue. Agree or disagree Matthew Cole seems to be a genuine guy and a true journalist. I respect how both men conducted themselves during this session. This was one has made my top 3 favorite Cleared Hot podcasts.

[@RockGlock10]

I disagree. I think this book and Mr. Coles speculations and moral judgments are a prime example of bad journalism. Journalism is a corrupt profession, driven by monetary factors and ego, a terrible combination. Mr. Cole could not get past opening stmt in a real trial. Saying things like, I know there is so much more that we will never know about….. think about that stmt and how it reflects on Mr. Cole’s mindset and objectiveness. Another example is his claim that he wants to lay out a narrative:what? Again, this is not journalism but sensationalism. Finally, to say that he did not slam all of the members of the baby seal community is just silly. Woke sickness on full display. No, I am not a veteran.

[@Cardan011]

@@RockGlock10 dude why are you so angry? Relax , healthy dose of skepticism is good just don’t let it grow into paranoia. You should be curious and able to learn from people you disagree with.

[@RockGlock10]

@@Cardan011 why are so accepting of this kind of garbage? I get angry when See people who call themselves journalist do this to good people.

[@RockGlock10]

@@Cardan011 by the way, did you read the book, watch the podcast, and research the history of Matt Cole and this “story” or do you just accept everything at face value?

[@Cardan011]

@@RockGlock10 yup read the book, and listened in audio form, also podcast, that put me into rabbit hole of getting my hands on anything even remotely connected to the issues. I spoke to close friend of mine who was in that community and gave him the book to read. His response was that compounding of attrition, combat fatigue does create these “tribes” and cliques, some turn on dark side while others don’t.

[@terrybaca4095]

After listening to Matthew on another podcast my first thought was that Andy needed to make this one happen. Thank you both.

[@mattme2789]

Absolutely fucking loved matt's book code over country & also the piece he wrote for the intercept.... Totally brilliant balls out journalism & I loved every word of both!!!

[@scalpsquadron4008]

Gotta give Andy huge respect for sitting across from the “enemy” for 3.5 hrs and hammering out a very articulated, clean, smooth and respectful conversation with Matt. Could you imagine how different the world would be if you could take people from the far ends of the spectrum like this and just hammer things out.

[@KC-UT4rmAZ]

Easily my favorite episode to date. Maybe because I saw him on the Team House podcast and he is what seems to me to be a very fascinating, honest and genuine guy who wrote this book from the heart and not from hate. Which I think is another huge reason he was willing to come on here and talk to Andy. Because he had nothing to hide or dodge. Which was an awesome conversation between the two by the way. This episode is the literal definition and example of how problems and issues get solved. Civil and genuine conversation about issues from two different ends of the spectrum. Good job Andy and Matt!

[@vincentlehmann9148]

The way Andy Stumpf interacts with this excellent journalist and how he approaches a seemingly complicated conversation gives me all the information I need to have on why I want to continue listening to any podcast he will make ! Amazing discussion.

[@tokyosan7906]

I haven't disliked a podcast yet, they've all been good. This one is one of the better good ones.

[@Error_404_Account_Deleted]

Andy might be the most reasonable person on youtube. What an astoundingly good episode! 👍🇺🇸 Code Over Country is a great read and will be a solid part of American history to be read by future generations. Facts>Feelings

[@fortunadozukushi932]

Cole: “The way I was told Delta dealt with their problem children was…” Me: (whispering to myself) “They ate them.” Cole: “They sent them away.” Me: “Oh… that’s not what I was expecting but ok.”

[@chaseh.1499]

Eh, you might be right. I heard they give them their future meal names when they check in. Kyle Lamb Chops, Pat Mac-aroni and Cheese, Jamey Caldwell-done, etc.

[@andy47456]

@@chaseh.1499 I thought Pat Mac was the most admired ex delta guy around.

[@Kriegter]

@@chaseh.1499 mango

[@joecanning7710]

@@chaseh.1499 that is funny

[@zac3392]

@@chaseh.1499 Bravo, sir! 😂

[@sherylvalentiner6115]

Thank you so very much for this interview. I believe this is a public service Andy. Grateful. 🇺🇸

[@LuckyJim5050]

Sometimes the real enemy in all aspects of life is ignorance, thanks for making our lives a little better fellas!

[@brandongross7821]

Went into this podcast with a completely different mindset than what I ended with. Very good interview. Respect to both.

[@russ75670]

Andy that was a hell of a conversation! I think what you said is important. "How much exposure to combat is enough?" "How much exposure to combat is too much?"

[@jamescoley8158]

Andy, great work. Thoroughly enjoyed you interviewing a critic who I suspect many in your former community abhor. Keep asking your questions and keep the thoughtful dialogue going. Our society needs more of it.

[@williamhoopes8230]

Matthew Cole lays it out perfectly in this interview. For those inside the circle every detail will ring true. Kudos to Cole for exposing a real problem within the community.

[@JakeHunter2010]

Mad respect for Andy for having this guy on. Civil conversation debates on opposing opinions about organizations that some have served in/with while others just research and criticized. #jakehunter88

[@lizzapaolia959]

Fantastic to find a man who has moral conviction. We have serious moral decline in the USA. Thanks for sharing this video. God bless 🙏

[@belladora1224]

Proud of you. I was going to mention it, Listening now, will let you know. Andy handled this so appropriately and Cole did also. Seals are human and too many deployments seems to contribute,

[@ArizonaAmbience]

I really enjoyed this podcast. As a 7 year Active Army Conventional Officer, and now National Guard Soldier its breath of fresh air. Leaders need to own our formations, there should be no brands in the military, and Mr. Stumpf did a good job on this podcast. Keep up the good work my man solid conversation, and solid leading of the conversation

[@mattheww4523]

Would love to see the gbrs guys on the podcast

[@jeffbowman9187]

WTF happened w Slade.? No hate, just asking.

[@roofer3608]

Honestly I'd rather see Slade...

[@MH6M]

@@jeffbowman9187 what did happen with Slade?

[@JohnSmith-yx8kf]

@Jeff Bowman - Some sort of disagreement about one of GBRS’s investors I think. The separation was less than smooth.

[@JohnSmith-yx8kf]

It is interesting (I haven’t watched the full episode yet), that this guy is talking about ‘integrity’ with regards to CAG vs DEVGRU, and GBRS/Tribe’s motto is ‘Loyalty over Integrity’. Interesting, if nothing else.

[@broberts1505]

I'm looking forward to when you have him on again. I'm really curious as to the off the record conversations you guys had over beers after the podcast. I appreciate the mutual respect that was shown.

[@mikemorris7922]

Please have Slade on.

[@xprettylightsx]

Seen this request a hundred times , I don’t think it’s going to happen…unfortunately…

[@Worstpersonsingular]

This is an old fashioned conversation between two people who have disagreements. He is a respectable journalist in my opinion. We need more journalists with his temperament and measure.

[@kasey7673]

Was just watching The Team House podcast w/ this guy the other day and even thought about suggesting him for this Cleared Hot. Really interested to hear your opinions on him since you're such a level-headed guy and also used to be a tier 1 navy guy. Starting the podcast now!

[@TLR28]

Thank you Andy for having this episode. I believe this is surely in the top 3 of all time.

[@wildbill60]

To all SEALs and the rest of our military thanks for keeping us safe

[@Austriangeek1]

🤣🤣🤣

[@wildbill60]

@@Austriangeek1 funny?

[@siggifreud812]

@@wildbill60 sarcasm? cynicism?...?

[@wildbill60]

@@siggifreud812 reality

[@davidlakvold8380]

Great interview. I wish you could get Cole back on and talk about his perspective of Eddie Gallagher's story in greater detail. I watched Shawn Ryan's interview with Eddie and as a former member of the military (Air Force, I know that may not count), I viewed that incident through the lens of military justice gone wrong.

[@roaminanderson9951]

It counts. From Army

[@Thforklift126]

The Air Force is as valuable to our national security as any other branch. In a digital age, that is actually an understatement. We cannot defend our country without our Air Force, which also happens to be the best Air Force in the world. Thank you so much for serving our country.

[@pimpdown2696]

Awesome podcast! I admired the respect shown during the conversation. Great restraint shown on both sides while still addressing differences. Great job!!

[@joshkitson7926]

In usually hate it when journalists get involved with shit at this level. It’s impossible to know what is going through someone’s head and their experience… but this guy is the most informed and respectful journalists I’ve ever heard

[@EditingWithPopPop]

Great episode! Both sides were great. Enjoyed all of it. Great explanation the last 38 minutes. Its like he is saying You keeping quiet, you're allowing "Management" to continue to screw over your own team members. I understand his brand use. If my step-father (police officer) were still alive, he would be upset for the backing of the bad apples within a department. Where they are worried about the brand. The guys actions were plain as day. You can't back that shit up. Thats when you lose integrity. We know not everyone is perfect. Its going to happen. Deal with it. They need to take responsibility for their actions. What do we do in the Army? If its minor, we give them a performance review and give them a month to clean their act up. A little worse, Article 15. Bad, kick them out, or even Leavenworth. Going back to his book, just because an officer is part of the Seal community doesn't mean that they cant do wrong, and do wrong to their own people. Guess thats what bothers me about politics. People looking the other way, when they know their party President has done wrong. But hey, he is with my party, so I gotta support him no matter what. People act like their President can do no wrong. Hey we'll bust out a President but not the other one. Won't hold them to same standard. Another example, complaining about Portland riots, which the State and City Officials tied Law Enforcement hands, but lets not complain about Jan 6th and the attack on the Capital Police. Managers and CEOs can do wrong, and we have them replaced, but lets not have the same concept with Presidents. All worried about their brand, be it SEALS, Police, Republican, or Democrat. Or hey CNN lies, but not FOX. Right. The acceptance of lies or gaslighting is mind boggling. The lack of critical thinking is amazing. Can't fix the problem if you keep your mouth shut. People worry about how they look, instead of having things run smoothly. Anyway, that was a terrible ramble. Great episode! Need to check out his books.

[@powertrip1050]

Great to see two adults being brave enough to talk truth. It is heartening to know that not everyone in this era is prepared to reject evidence and facts just because they are inconvenient. Open journalism is a fundamental requirement for democracies to work - and journalism can only work when the journalist is required to show evidence and admit to possible bias.......a great interview overall and a healthy conversation for modern America.

[@srsmedic8285]

Great job Andy. Incredibly fair and honest interview. Respect and candor was a running theme through the entire 3 hours

[@ColKurtzknew]

What a breath of fresh (Montana?) air. Two thoughtful individuals respectfully conversing with the intent to genuinely understand each other.

[@franklinsalazarcostas5231]

Great Podcast Andy! Love your openness to talk to interesting people from different backgrounds and political views!!

[@jessiejames5762]

Thank the lord that someone else did the audio book, this guys put me to sleep a few times.

[@superkool7]

GREAT podcast guys. To both of you. You both were very engaged, asking real and intelligent questions to each other, great answer, great topics. TOTALLY different than the Team House podcast so give it a listen! I think I’ll pick up the book and give it a real read with an open mind. Great podcast once again guys thank you!

[@lesflynn4455]

A fascinating, excellent episode of Andy's podcast. He asked some brilliant, challenging questions during this episode. I would encourage anyone who hasn't read the book (that includes me) to watch the episode of The Team Room podcast with Matthew Cole, as it provides more details regarding the content of the book.

[@Elrond_Hubbard1]

I enjoyed this conversation, although his appearance on Democracy Now, had a much different tone. Also, reading through his other articles, it was apparent to me that he's as much an activist as he is a journalist. But that's fine, at least he believes in honest conversation and isn't afraid to mix it up. Much respect!

[@joecanning7710]

For sure an Activist. and you know he voted for Clinton…not the one that DID NOT HAVE SEXUAL RELATIONS IN THE OVAL OFFICE… the one that didn’t answer the phone and let Americans died, including at least one Seal

[@Elrond_Hubbard1]

@@joecanning7710 You look at warfare throughout human history and you'll find that it's nasty, brutal, and downright evil at times, but that's just human nature. Look at our closest animal ancestors the chimps, they're vicious and routinely go above and beyond viciousness when fighting against other clans. Can't expect soldiers who are constantly in battle like our special forces to not exhibit some of those base animal instincts. Easy for a simp like that guy, to stand back and judge with no skin in the game.

[@mike_braun_1023]

Nice work Mr. Stumpf. As always you're very humble, very articulate, and you managed a very diplomatic conversation regarding some content you do not agree with 👍👍

[@hulkingmass]

Thank you comment section for reminding me to not look at the comment section and just enjoy the discussion.

[@craykard8325]

If we cannot have the conversation how will we learn? It is good to have that talk. No one wants to hurt the SEALs, we all want our people to win. We need to get better and not eat our own. Glad we got some good journalist.

[@Allison_Chaynes]

Great episode. Also, being a dog lover and fascinated by how their used in SPEC OPS, I had to buy that book about Cairo. Will seems like a good dude, too. You should really give NO ORDINARY DOG a read. That dog saved many SEALS lives. His story should be told and is cool that it is.

[@gee3680]

This is great. Well done Andy and Matthew.

[@busbey61]

Just turned on the podcast. I tweeted the team house interview to Andy (I assume most who seen it did something similar). I didnt watch but 5 mins of Team House, because I was hoping for this right here. I didn't think it would be confrontation, far from it, but open dialogue for sure. I have been following Andy for years, so this will definitely influence my opinion.

[@jimlimberakis8115]

I just finished reading the book and found it to be a fascinating read. That being said I do have questions as to some of the findings presented. I do agree with others here that Andy and Matthew sitting down and having a rational conversation was a good thing . I hope they can do so again in the future.

[@maomao9079]

This was an awesome exchanges of two brilliant minds. Great work guys

[@angusdog22]

Matthew Cole called himself a “Hood Rat” 😂😂

[@JasonX2]

Major cringe

[@mikethomas2801]

I feel like this type of journalism needs to be a standard. As truthful as can be yet their ability to be open minded enough to discuss it with those who can add more truth or validate etc. we see so much propaganda and bs that this is such a treat to watch and hear. Def is the way to “move the rock forward”

[@Girthbrooks1989]

He didn’t have the same energy as the team house lol

[@clv_23]

3:07:28 well said. If only this guy applied his journalistic tenacity to politicians… I’d read that book

[@danielbrown9368]

Too much content to cut down to one book. Would take forever to sort through all the sludge.

[@808INFantry11X]

The politics is much bigger sets of issues there is way too much there to even unpack in just one book. It was a good read. As military man myself it was breath of fresh air.

[@michaelspollen6884]

Mr. Stumpf, thanks for having Mr. Cole on Cleared Hot. I thought your handling of the discussion was an impeccable example of how to responsibly use a microphone. #classact

[@Becarhodzic]

What were you expecting?

[@cyphercorinth7399]

Happy monday guys!!! Haveca kickass week!

[@oscarjuarez2758]

Great job Mr. Stumpf, you represent your old community at the highest level.

[@EsteVatoLoco]

Incredible interview! it’s enlightening to see adults discuss a sensitive topic without calling each other names or personally attacking each other. I’m retired Army and am very well aware how an organization will try to cover up when something goes wrong, even worst terribly wrong or does not goes as expected. If you are part of that organization, part your job is to keep that unit honest otherwise the same shit will happen again and again. And it will grow and fester until something deadly or catastrophic happens. We grow by facing our own shortcomings otherwise we live in a self created false reality.

[@xvsj-s2x]

Great research 🧐 to create an additional informative message with tangible content !!! Thank you for sharing 🇺🇸☕️

[@onshore1ft]

Great to have a guest without a baseball cap.

[@rockorockwell1420]

“Good Ol’ Boy” syndrome became widespread. Instead of holding people accountable for their actions leaders began picking and choosing who to give a pass and who to go after. Pre-GWOT and not during wartime you can get away with it

[@klmorg63]

If politicians would take a look at this podcast and see you don’t have to argue to have a conversation where you don’t always agree! Good job Andy and Matt for being respectful despite the way you each may see things through different lenses!

[@DylanAce6]

10-12 dudes just got dropped from BUDs for steroids in most recent class

[@johngoodell2775]

kudos to Andy .... obviously an open minded critical thinker open to bringing these tough conversation to his channel

[@strawdawgs78]

Holy $#!# I was not expecting this. Looking forward to it.

[@szbert]

I don't think Cole has any agenda except what he says. He's trying to do good journalism, and seems to be open to not being perfect. And Stumpf is Stumpf, calm, rational, smart ass, funny -- just right. Kudos Andy. Kudos Mr. Cole. I'll have to read the book now :)

[@huntingsynth]

Mr Cole does not get the idea that Tier 1 personnel and classified orgs need to stay that way to protect the assets lives during and after service…I get the public service but you can’t jeopardize the asset or in my opinion you should take responsibility for any attack on the asset but also the stress that comes from being named…its not just that you should feel bad but you should also be held accountable

[@PeterRSCFF]

Andy, during the interview, unable to remember the name of the geometric object on his hat … (a triangle) … is super funny and I can relate 😂. “It’s square on its side” *looks at camera*. Made my laugh - probably just me.

[@damiengalarza918]

Would love for someone to write a book called “Code over Country: the Tragedy and Corruption of Journalism”

[@nailbomb3]

refreshing to listen to two intelligent guys discuss complex topics in today's world.