Delta Force Operator and Sergeant Major John Shrek McPhee | Reflections on 100 Episodes

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This is our 100th EPISODE of Combat Story. This episode has two segments: an in-person interview with none other than John Skrek McPhee, former Sergeant Major in Delta Force or the Unit and our most watched and listened to guest to date; and a second segment where I reflect on some of the moments and interviews that stand out from the past 100.
For the first portion, Shrek welcomed us to his annual in-person SOB Tactical members event in North Carolina where he taught me how to properly breach a door with a shotgun, where another former guest and fellow Special Operator Dutch Moyer taught my 15-year-old son to hit a 25-meter target with a handgun on his first ever shot, and where we celebrated with a grog that brought back some of the more lighthearted memories of formal military events I’d almost forgotten.
For this interview, I asked Shrek some questions that our own Combat Story community wanted to know and a few that I’d been wondering about myself. We all know how tough Shrek is so the fact that Shrek and I both got choked up in this session is saying a lot.
For the second segment, I reflect back on some of the episodes from our first 100 that stand out to me for a variety of reasons and those that I’ll often think back on from time to time because they taught me something and help me process what’s going on in my life today by giving me perspective. Just thinking back on one of these interviews brought me to tears because it still makes me remember how grateful I need to be today.
We could never have made something like Combat Story without your support over the past two years and 100 episodes. Thank you to those who have been here since the beginning and to those who have only recently joined us. We’ve got so much more to come and it’s only possible because of you.
With that, please enjoy this special edition of Combat Story for our 100th episode.
Find John Online:
- Instagram @sobtactical / sobtactical
- SOB Tactical sobtactical.com/
- SOB TV watch.sobtactical.com/
Find Ryan Online:
- Ryan’s Linktree linktr.ee/combatstory
- Merch www.bonfire.com/store/combats...
- Instagram @combatstory / combatstory
- Facebook @combatstoryofficial combatstoryofficial
- Send us messages at m.me/combatstoryofficial
- Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus
- Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
0:00 - Intro
2:14 - Interview with John Skrek McPhee begins
2:31 - From the original vision of SOB Tactical to the 5th annual SOB Tactical member's event
5:49 - Planning cycles for ops and how it is applied outside of the service
10:50 - Ops in Norway and freezing conditions
14:31 - Fan question - Did you really have a 300 PT test ?
15:50 - The bonds and common ties that exist working with foreign forces
23:26 - Do you wish you were over there fighting the Russians right now?
28:29 - Learning to be more humane downrange
30:55 - Have you had to do family notification before?
33:33 - The value of "running your own race" in life
36:17 - Fan question - As a first time handgun buyer, what would you recommend?
38:26 - Fan question - What's Shrek's favorite book, poem, show, album"
41:51 - Things that trigger memories of being downrange
48:38 - Philosophy of failures and taking risks
51:16 - Preparing sons for the service and how it changed their relationship
53:53 - When was the last time you took the uniform off?
55:47 - The future of SOB Tactical
57:08 - Ryan's reflections on 100 episodes
1:23:48 - Listener comments and shout outs
1:27:33 - Bonus - Outtake from John Skrek McPhee interview
This video covers the following subjects:
- Celebrating our 100th Combat Story
- Sergeant Major in Delta Force
- Special Operator Dutch Moyer
- Combat Story
If you would like to learn more about Sergeant Major in Delta Force, John Skrek McPhee, and Special Operator Dutch Moyer I suggest you look into our various other video clips: / @combatstory
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[@diziplesp]

When Pat Mac says that Shrek was a “monster” in combat, that says a lot.

[@ben1c1o56]

Where's he say this?? Would love to hear him talk about Shrek

[@blakedavis7443]

Which video did Pat talk about Shrek? I'd love to check that out!

[@bobbyknoth6985]

Come on man,where can we hear this bro?!?!?!!!

[@diziplesp]

Not in a video, I was fortunate enough to take one of his classes in AZ and he mentioned this offline while chatting with us.

[@ericmalmstrom4840]

Agreed. Pat Mac is a monster himself.

[@connorhall8463]

Shrek has got to be the best podcast guest of all time. Such a straight shooter who is simultaneously introspective and hilarious. Great podcast and congrats on 100 episodes!!!

[@stuartcampbell5275]

Real raw warrior!....i agree brother.....hope he can share the tough stuff....it sets u free!

[@Jake-hw9kp]

His response to "why do you want an MG42" just had me in stitches 😂

[@MrCashewkitty]

I listen to every SOF related podcast that I have found, even obscure ones with very few subs. I work alone, at night so a podcast is always playing. Shrek is by far my favorite interview just for his laid back, comedic outlook. Dude is a riot

[@Saltyshorttimer]

Same. Late nights, always podcasting, this one is one of the best I’ve heard

[@1anre]

Which ones have you found are gold like this Combat Story one?

[@dunnock343]

Shawn Ryan Show is unmatched. But this is a close second

[@MrCashewkitty]

@@1anre I like Shawn Ryan, Cleared Hot, Mike Drop, Team House...even though I don't care for the hosts, Kit Cage, Former Action Guys as my old DI has been on several times, Unafraid, Could you survive this podcast, Trendifier has had multiple CIA dudes, Sofcast,

[@MrCashewkitty]

There's several I'm forgetting but I'm subbed so I get notified. LiveQordie has had Shrek 2x and a couple other SMU dudes. The old Fieldcraft Survival podcast that aren't on KZbin were great. I'll just look up CAG guys that I know and find their interviews

[@ForceMultiplier]

Ryan, you're ability to keep the conversation rolling like a Boulder down a hill, effortlessly, while still letting your guest own the show is unbelievably beautiful. You and your show are incredible.

[@michaelschlosser1194]

lol he constantly disrupts the conversation for some random question.

[@ryanpura9581]

Happy 100th episode you are amazing and let's keep up the greatness, these men and women are amazing, and the fact that you don't speak on yourself and your own amazing experiences and hard work is a true shining example of selfless service and honor, thank you all for guiding us . Love you, Live you.

[@davidguf579]

having just taken a class with john i can confirm he really is just like he is in real life as he is in these interviews, just an awesome instructor as well as his hilarious and over exaggerated sense of humor and commentary that keeps you engaged at all times. Probably the most fun course of any kind of i've ever taken and I cant speak highly enough about the guy, if you ever have the opportunity to sign up for a class with him you should absolutely do it.

[@NotOnDrugs]

You've gotta get him to tell us about the "strangest night of his life", ASAP!!!

[@gennehring1]

Two of my favorite human beings. Thank you, gentlemen.

[@MrCashewkitty]

Hearing Ryan doubting his self in the beginning is interesting. You'd think a guy that's flown into fire AND worked for the agency would be as self assured as Muhammed Ali. It's a reminder that we are all humans struggling with the same emotions. I've absolutely loved the first 100. Here's to 100 more!

[@reconraider79]

Hey brother...was honored to be apart of your podcast, big thanks to my man Joe Bruey for the connection. You're doing a great thing here...every culture has it's warrior tribes and you're capturing ours in raw form. You definitely need to save each one of these in a couple different places so you don't lose them. 50 years from now this will be amazing for that generation to listen to. Keep doing what you're doing man!

[@andy47456]

YES! Saturday Combat Story with John McPhee, always a great guest!

[@zacharyruben1852]

Shrek is a mans man. I look at you and i dont see any pain or suffering. This is the first time ive heard you say there are things that haunt you. Call it what you want but, i’d love to hear about these things and how you reacted and dealt with them. Thank you guys.

[@frankjacoby9460]

First time viewer, Vietnam Era Marine Veteran; 25 year State Police Officer-homicide investigator, prosecutor’s investigator and proud American! Thanks for the connections to my time in the Corps 👍🏼

[@OvelNick]

The reason your podcast is so amazing is that you do this for you and the guest. You're not trying to appease everyone by asking questions you polled the community about. You're not trying to make the guest out to be something they're not (good, bad, or indifferent). There's no narrative. That's my opinion anyways. Thanks for giving me, us, these stories straight from the mouth of the person that lived it!

[@832KJV]

You have just made my day! I love the SOB and how he makes you giggle Ryan. Great stuff!!! Woooooo!

[@Kennoisewater123]

I’ve never wanted to hug a more terrifying man more. Thank god he’s on our team

[@kenbrovost9653]

The random gunshots in the background are like the perfect ambient noise for interviewing Shrek

[@wildeninja2836]

HAD TO WATCH THIS RIGHT AWAY!

[@jessackley4337]

Thank you combat story for all the awesome interviews that you've brought to us! I always love an interview with John "Shrek" McPhee, his no bull way of talking is the best. The way you do these interviews takes me back to when I was a kid listening to my grandfather talk to his brother and cousins about their deployments in World war II. Being a very young child I was not allowed to sit and listen to all of their stories. I would only catch glimpses of what went on. So your interview is like sitting down with them and finally getting to listen to the story. I love it. Thank you for everything you are doing. Perfect interviewee for your 100th episode! Story Time with Shrek never gets old!

[@N.S.A.Headquarters]

100 EPISODES Congratulations! 🎉👏🎆🇺🇸🏴‍☠️

[@bradaen]

That shrek interview with the sadam sweater is what brought me here and got me to subscribe. Since then saw all your interviews. Definitely quality. Congrats

[@brianwhiting702]

Congratulations! I’m looking forward to this one!

[@batjackjohnson252]

Thanks for all the great work.

[@christopher-ace-azevedo5509]

As always, thank you for sharing. it is always powerful.

[@ReclusiveMountainMan]

Love your interviews, Ryan. Love what you're doing. Thank you and congrats on reaching 100 episodes. Looking forward to the next 100. You're documenting history.

[@phleg2]

Excellent episode!!!

[@chrisculley3756]

Oh dear God these are my favorite when you and Shrek are getting down. Any man that has two nicknames is a bad man in my book. Congratulations on hitting 100 episodes. I still can't figure out how you don't have 100,000 subscribers. I Truly mean that, that's not fluff.. your interviews and the people you get on here are just unreal. RLTW 3/75

[@dougstitt1652]

Good vid. sir , great interview ! Thank you.

[@xpressotel]

Made my day just a fitting humble overview of your journey-you are doing a great deed for many -cheers

[@hunter12528]

Congrats Ryan! I love the channel and listen to it weekly while I'm working. Keep doing what your doing and take care of yourself!

[@grayanderson1222]

Trained with John 5 times this year, worth every dollar, he is an amazing teacher, second to no one. A few words to describe him by: genuine, funny, kind and professional. Thanks Ryan and John. Outstanding podcast.

[@lindsaybourguignon8514]

Super entertaining and informative. You are a great interagtor looking forward to the next hundred! Loved to see this one live!

[@97VobraOwner]

I have watched this twice now - just going to say it - John is such an awesome person - his humility during this interview was so genuine- it’s an honor to have met him.

[@shawnp6653]

Right-to-left planning for the win. Great episode Ryan - I need to rewatch some of those episodes you mentioned.

[@Bruce_S]

Great stuff, Ryan. Keep doing what you're doing!

[@luis-zp3bh]

This is the best podcast that I can never get bored off, I can truly say I’ve been here from the start and will never stop supporting you and the veterans you bring on. These unique stories all motivate me throughout hard times and I could never thank you enough for putting these out. Never quit and never doubt the power of your voice!

[@Jam-vj8ig]

Thank you Ryan, your show has helped many people including me. Please continue the great work. God Bless.

[@richardbowles7690]

Congrats on the 100. Quite a milestone. You keep it fresh and interesting -- a rare skill. Rare because you keep focus on guest and help them tell their story, while keeping it about them and not you. Bravo, Ryan.

[@carlfischer4163]

I wasn’t in any combat , I went USN before NOM was over. At that time just out of high school my best friend got drafted into the Army. My training was in aviation maintenance. So I went USN. He got out after his tour in NOM. I stayed in for 21. When I did finally get to see him after NOM he was NOT the same kid I hung around with. His marriage fell apart. I did loose contact with him for a long time. We live way far apart. He never wants to talk about his time. I guess his second marriage has lasted. We are all retired now. All my cruises on aircraft carriers were rough but not like combat. I don’t think I could have done that. Really enjoy your pod casts keep up the good work. Thanks

[@Abnrgr7583]

Ryan - congrats on the 100th episode! I have listened to each episode and look forward to the release of new episodes each Saturday. You and your guests have helped so many, from all services, of all ranks while capturing history through the eyes of the authors and informing the interested. I consistently recommend this podcast to others. Very well done!

[@krisandwillandkris]

Congrats on 100 episodes Ryan keep it up! Looking forward to ep 200

[@williambabbitt6015]

Awesome interview

[@bradpeterson2386]

Congratulations on 100. Excellent interview, Shrek is always good for several laughs. I agree with you about Bob Keller. I’ve been to several of his classes, and he’s always smiling and laughing, very down to earth dude. Keep up the good work. Semper Fi

[@ctpatriot9116]

Love your videos! We need more John McPhee with others

[@codybailey3298]

Thank you Ryan! Your Shrek interviews have been epic!! Gotta love him! I cannot wait to watch the episodes you've mentioned at the end of this. Keep up the good work! Can't wait for future episodes and the new changes to come. Take care God bless!!!

[@willetr3744]

Watching these conversations take place are theraputic. It's a vicarious defusing feeling...very worthwhile. Thanks for this.

[@odan7564]

The perfect Birthday present! Thank you for 100 episodes! Love this podcast!

[@jamesgunnyreed3792]

Great video! Shrek is always fun, but the 2nd part was really good and heartfelt. Congrats on the first 100. Cant wait for more.

[@thehodur5585]

I've been listening to Combat Story for a few months now and I'm in love with these podcasts. Thank you for everyone who has served and thank you for bringing their stories to light.

[@chadh3441]

Congrats on the 100th man, and dam what a way to celebrate it! I don't think there's any video with Shrek, that you just can't help but come away smiling. His don't give a shit attitude and sense of humor is infectious as hell! Thank you all for your service, and Congrats again brother on the 100th episode! Cheers

[@raybord1]

I think this is the best interview with John. He’s always great but this one you can tell he’s more comfortable. GREAT INTERVIEW!

[@desperado8605]

Congratulations on 100. 2nd one I've listened to with Shrek gonna have to find the others now.

[@_-_-_1031]

Thank you for the 100 episodes congratulations I think more young people should find and listen to this channel for the sacrifices these brave men Whence true for our freedom. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. May you never be forgotten.

[@JayDubb3BCT]

Congrats on 100 Ryan! Thank you for all the stories that you've brought to us & we continue to look forward to many more! Cheers! 🍻

[@wiley8976]

Ryan thank you for all the hard work you have put in to creating this amazing podcast. I totally agree that these amazing people telling their stories allows them to get so much off their chest while also teaching others lessons learned. Wishing you and your family a blessed Holiday season. Keep them coming I look forward to every Sunday to hear the next episode.

[@bricktopmedic]

I've listened beginning (nearly, approx:5th E) and every week, at the end of each episode, I am yet again floored by the story. Happy Centennial Episode! Brave Rifles!

[@Jam-vj8ig]

Always look forward to your shows.... Especially when Shrek joins you. It's the best. Thank you Sir.

[@manuelsandino9248]

Congratulations on the 100th, looking forward to the 1000th. Good choice on the person to interview, always entertaining to listen to John McPhee. Great work.

[@jaredchandler4491]

Keep going, Ryan--you are highlighting amazing people!! I really appreciate the thought you put into these interviews- it’s artful🤙🏼 And its been too fun to see interviews with 3 people I met back in the day😂 small world🇺🇸

[@marcosellors4249]

Mate I think I’ve watched/listened and heard nearly all your episodes. Truly a great job. For me Van Sandt moved me the most. Really respect your position and manner in which you interview. Thanks for what you do now and your service both before and now. Especially on episodes which highlight mental health within the community

[@jordanaraujo2579]

Congrats Ryan. Keep up the great work 👍

[@BirdDawg1]

Thank you Ryan. I appreciate you sir. Great channel, always has been. Integrity.

[@derangedhermit7981]

Happy 100th man. One of my favorite youtube channels.

[@adamkushner5240]

Thank you and all Veterans God bless you and your team for Veterans stories and the important information we get 🙏 😊

[@Lord_winterfell]

ryan congratulations ! you got a hell of show. you an amazing interviewer your questions is on the spot and encouraging to be a better person please keep it up also i want to thank jhon for beeing such a funny and honest individual all the time

[@Billfish57]

Great show as always. Shrek is the best. Love the way he talks about everything. Keep coming with these videos because you are fantastic at this. Thank you for the first 100.

[@chapternextphotography9304]

Anxiously awaiting the next 100!

[@christopher6894]

Great and insightful…raw at times a must watch.

[@k9_rbron826]

Thank you for being real. I look forward to 100's more.

[@dwrabauke]

Congrats on a 100!! I joined late, but I am sometimes pretty much glued to the screen for a good part of the day to listen to all the intense stories. Listening to real vets instead of watching silly military tiktoks and what not is so much more interesting, and to take at least some life advice from real combat veterans gives you completely new insights on life.

[@tana439]

Thank you so much for all these episodes. With you regarding Beau WISE, very emotional episode. Keep doing this good job.

[@RenegadeRanga]

The sheriff is not only a savage but funny as fuck. This was a great way to celebrate 100 episodes.

[@keithphaneuf9146]

As always another GREAT video Ryan, I look forward to more along with catching Shrek at the right time to unload his dark side when like he said when he is ready.

[@dcdude81]

Thank you for what you do.

[@rusnsc7622]

Congrats on 100 Ryan. Keep up the great work.

[@walabok1269]

Congrats for the century of interviews. As someone with no military experience, and not even from the US, I love this podcast and simply admire your ability to have a honest conversation with your guests regardless of their backgrounds. I've definitely learned a lot, and truly commend all servicemen who put their lives on the line to defend their values. Keep it up et bon courage!

[@jonsmallwood1657]

Happy 100th episode. These are so well done. I train with John, I was there when he got his flamethrower in this year, 😂 great dude.

[@mrs8171]

LOVE your work Ryan. Probably the best trait of your podcast is your genuine ability to relate to your guests. There are ALOT of podcast's or "interview shows" that have a host who is uneducated in the guest, or who is only interested in "their show" and what the guest can do for them. I had thought when I was an ROTC MOI in 1999 that having veteran interviews would be very helpful in teaching young leaders. Whether you realize it or not, your interviews are of enormous value in many, many different ways. Thank you!

[@GunWebsites]

102nd thumb up, I just listened to the first interview with John yesterday, what a treat to find this one available to day, thank you so much for this series and congratulations on the 100th episode, this is just the beginning

[@niemdan]

From a Marine 02-06 and BW WPPS 08-10, thank you for providing us with this content. It makes me feel connected and I need this content to feel at ease many days. Love you and your guests, for real- Love brother

[@stuartcampbell5275]

I love the raw emotion sir....dont ever quit felling it , some people still cant feel but are encouraged when they see tbeir brothers do it without shame and them broadcast it!...giant balls brother. You guys that do these pods are saving lives! I spend hours listening and have my feelings come to almost surface!....shrek...you were dad ass, i fell i know u from somewhere..... Much respect Stu

[@BPierce777]

Outstanding interviewer. You're a great dude--it's obvious. Thank you so much for taking the time to provide such high-quality content. Very much appreciate it sir.

[@BirdDawg1]

Powerfull stuff Shrek. Thank you for not ever backing off and shooting straight at all times. Our society definitely needs to rethink, I'm listening to you, and I hope a lot of other people are too.

[@gunsnsails]

Freakin aweeome episode! Blackhawk Down is still the go-to movie for me after a 21 year career. In my retirement I've worked side by side with guys that were there. I've done some cool shit but it's awesome to be around these bubbas. Your interviews take me back in some regards and also keep me grounded with self reflection. Totally love it!

[@ericmalmstrom4840]

@CombatStory Congrats on 100 episodes! I think I've watched about half of them... Can't wait to watch the rest. Keep up the great work! P.S. You couldn't have possibly picked a better guest for the 100th... Everyone loves the tough but hilarious SOB.

[@haydenshedd305]

Been here since Episode 3, here’s to 100 more 🤙🏽

[@happinesshotel5375]

Yes! Part three!

[@oldpain7625]

Oh hell yeah you guys are a good team. Thanks!

[@BadActor-]

That Nasty SOB.... Been Here From Launch.... Just Keeps Getting Better.... Ryan's Bewilderment And Passion Is Awesome.... Thanks GB 💚

[@davidhennessy6261]

Congratulations Ryan on a great series!! The Hellfire shot looked very familiar 😉 My best to the family

[@coreymoreau]

This is a great channel!

[@jefffoy530]

This was a good one🙏

[@gregoryevans9601]

I've really enjoyed watching Ryan's interviews, but especially the two with John "Shrek" McPhee. Great stuff!

[@Lisa-qv2dv]

Omg!! Yes, Love the stories!!!

[@emmanuelawosusi2365]

Love the channel

[@wildbill60]

Keep them coming Ryan

[@richardsmith1674]

Loved all the ones with John shrek mcphee. I could listen to him all day. Can’t wait for the stories he’s not yet ready to talk about

[@JB-td9fz]

John's a legend. I love him.

[@kevinkozak7044]

Congrats on 100 here's to 1000 more.

[@davidcowley]

Great work, yes it helps people to hear these stories. Even if you have never been in the military, the stories are and inspiration of resilience ❤

[@chkoha6462]

100 already? Congrats from Germany and keep them coming