Episode 128 - Ephraim Mattos

Ephraim Mattos graduated high school in 2010, joined the United States Navy, successfully graduated BUD/s (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL) training, and became a member of a west coast SEAL Team.
After leaving the US Navy SEAL Teams in 2017, at the age of 24, he flew to Iraq and joined a small group of volunteer humanitarians known as the Free Burma Rangers. Until being shot by ISIS on a suicidal rescue mission, Mattos witnessed unexplainable acts of courage and sacrifice by the Free Burma Rangers, who, while under heavy machine gun and mortar fire, assaulted across ISIS minefields, used themselves as human shields, and sprinted down ISIS-infested streets-all to retrieve wounded civilians.
Ephraim founded Stronghold Rescue and Relief, a non-profit dedicated to sending highly trained former Special Operations personnel into the heart of violent conflicts around the world in order to find and help the families caught in the crossfire, as well as assist oppressed people in multiple countries facing genocide and human trafficking.
Today, Ephraim continues to conduct humanitarian rescue and relief operations around the world.

[@sandrasummers5686]

I'm a widow but my husband was a LEO and my firstborn son was killed while he was in the Navy. I went straight to his site and donated. This affected me so much! 💔🙏✝️

[@xymoriintus]

As a 32 year old man, this guy makes me feel bad about how I've lived my life. Thank both of you for serving

[@silaskelvin2940]

InstaBlaster

[@carewser]

It's pretty hard to compete with a real life superhero like Ephraim Mattos

[@lovejesus7775]

@@carewser absolutely

[@proudinfidelpaintball]

It’s never too late brother.

[@TammyDoron]

I'm 53...and speechless.

[@TheMissing8]

Ephraim is the type of guy who is- in the truest sense of the word- a rebel. He rebelled against his childhood and the parochial framework that was forced on him at an early age. He follows his own path. He is based and a man of unshakeable principle. He's unapologetic about who he is and what he wants to do to fulfill his mission. I like that.

[@garrisonturner3232]

Interestingly, he also rebelled against the natural law he talks about lol. Seems to me our nature as people is to kill, steal, and destroy. But his entire life is devoted to rebelling against that very thing, putting himself at completely unnatural risk to save strangers. He even rebels against his own understanding of the world, and his own fear. Fascinating guy!

[@lovejesus7775]

He is a hero not a rebel don’t get it twisted

[@joeblough261]

@@lovejesus7775 You can be both, they are not mutually exclusive.

[@southernmostrebel]

Then, why does he claim that Isis is getting rehabilitated, etc., these people are deceivers also promoting dope to our veterans come on that's just evil

[@MITCHMLIB]

A Seal Vet who never used a cuss word the whole interview

[@panchovilla7580]

@@MM-eo2oz Jocko swears all the time lol you haven't listened to enough.

[@jpcjpc9713]

Maybe because he grew up in a conservative christian family.

[@chadmccune2935]

Ha---thought the same thing. Bill Rapier never cussed either (on Ritland's too).

[@TheSkaterguy668]

It’s crazy how calm he looks in the actual video.

[@mrmichael972]

Incredible that he is only 27 years old.

[@Btal821]

Ephraim has the ethically grounded insight to properly frame so much more than he’s probably willing to comment on.

[@raymondrostova1984]

Heaven has a special place for men like Ephraim Mattos

[@Vitalbowhunting]

This guy is awesome. Good for him for choosing his path.

[@anthonylewis9256]

Next time someone puts this country down make them listen to the last 1:30:00 of this podcast . We have it good folks real good be thankful

[@internet_internet]

Ephraim and the former Green Beret leader of FBR both deserve a Medal of Honor as a civilians.

[@DarcyCarmen]

Andy realizing the guest is young enough that his father was in the military during OIF was priceless.

[@On-Our-Radar-24News]

I remember when this video popped of the rescue of the little girl. I had no idea it was this dude

[@DkKristie]

Man I’m from Kurdistan and listening to this shit gives me chills f*** insane thank you for your service

[@Mark_87]

@@hayden8491 it is if you live there

[@zakstar3005]

@@hayden8491 you could have literally just googled it instead of looking like an idiot

[@tauvid9798]

@@hayden8491 mate get educated, stop commenting if you are a no brainer

[@odie00zero]

I’ve been supporting Stronghold for their ability to help those who can’t help themselves with these talents of rescue and relief. I’m not religious as my mother was an ordained minister and watching her life from the eyes of a child and seeing how humans can be so hypocritical with their words to their actions was enough to effect me. Having said this I’m saddened because religion is so important and blatant hypocrisy has harmed it’s real helpfulness with helping people find a decent morality. But enough of that it’s my journey to come to terms with. This man regardless of anything is a real hero like all of our services members. Also a real difference is he transitioned from his country and team to the world’s weakest whom need someone help. And yes I know he’s human like all of us. But these days it’s important to find your hero’s.

[@AKsusan907]

Andy, thank you for having Ephram on your podcast. I cried…and he is very correct about some humanitarian aid orgs..and the interesting reasons ppl want to join. Excellent gentlemen. Thank you.

[@nancybarry4150]

Loved this podcast. Impressive young man, he will make a difference in a big way to the less fortunate.

[@nicks3350]

Although he didn’t talk an awful lot, this episode shows why Andy is such a great interviewer. He asked a few important questions, and let his guest tell his story. Great work!

[@rupertohernandez8242]

I truly believe that God has blessed you bro. He blessed you to be a witness in your faith. Maybe not religious, but to show the world that there are people like you trying to nake a difference. For that God has TRULY blessed YOU. Semper Fi & God bless...

[@BostonsF1nest]

The work this guy is doing is absolutely incredible. Makes you wonder why the US military is training special operators for 18 months to go sit on a beach in the Philippines while shit like he described in Mosul is happening. Regardless, excellent podcast and I appreciate all the work you’re putting in.

[@JRsmith.]

He literally said there was a seal unit on the other side of Mosul... our Canadian special operators were there aswell in Iraq. This guy although probably well intentioned in his own mind, was undisciplined and wanted to be a hero. still so young and ruined alot of potential opportunity to develop his skills and progress in military.To each their own.

[@robertastephani6802]

Have you read/listened to Thomas Wiktor/Carlos Osweda? Apparently "we" aren't doing much of that any more.Everything changed in 2017 going forward regarding how special ops are conducted. :-) Makes sense when you hear DJT say "Even one death is too many." Doesn't just apply to this CCP Virus.

[@louisking5571]

@@robertastephani6802 Hey could you explain what you mean by that? Do you mean special operators are not in mosul anymore? Or do you mean we don't train operators to sit on beaches in the Phillippines?

[@songen1042]

I think the Philippines is a horrible example as there is combat in the Phillippines from terrorist groups, but yes sof operators shouldn't be deployed to 1st world countries

[@BostonsF1nest]

@@songen1042 Lol I wouldn’t refer to the terrorist cells and random engagements in the Philippines as combat... and it’s miles away from being an actual war zone than places in the Middle East

[@mikefordy1]

Thank you for having him on....once again , very inspirational and eye opening

[@sixplymaple1262]

This is awesome seeing two generations of Navy SEAL getting to know each other. Thank you for letting us all listen in...

[@ForOrAgainstUs]

"Oh my word, my 'chute didn't open." Probably the first and last time those words verbatim would ever be uttered in that context.

[@titleordie]

“I don’t remember fourth grade... I don’t even remember what i had for breakfast” yup hahaha

[@zac3392]

I do... best 3 years of my life!

[@dong4176]

This is the best podcast around.. it opens up what it’s happening in the world

[@ladspell]

It's great to see you getting better and better as an interviewer/podcaster. Follow you since first Rogan and really enjoy your content and you as a guest AND in a more active position

[@TheDovahkiin05]

Mr. Mattos posses so much insightful knowledge for someone who is so young

[@AslanW]

This is a true hero. You can tell that he strives to live in accordance with his own moral principles and values. This was a great episode.

[@nicklepsch4960]

Andy is absolutely spot on w the argument situation...if someone comes at you they’re definitely not looking for a solution...kindness really does kill..it kills a shitty mood...this podcast is gonna sky rocket 🚀

[@riffedwood5597]

Cool to hear from a younger SEAL. Thanks for bringing him on Andy.

[@IDWIE]

Ephraim, thank you for being such a great human being. You represent the highest level of character, integrity, conviction, and bravery. Humanity is lucky to have people like you!

[@jayb150]

Incredible conversation. The answer to Andy’s question at 2:09::00 was one of the most thoughtful descriptions I’ve ever heard of a person’s perception of creation that gracefully considers humanity - instead of making us the center and therefore limit OF creation. Following the topic regarding motives for a cause and subsequent financial complications that arise from corruption or just plain selfishness. Honesty is, I believe, the FOUNDATION of natural law-which I had never looked up until this podcast. Bravo gentlemen. Joy = self honesty and MISERY LOVES COMPANY!

[@internet_internet]

May God Bless you, Ephraim & Andy.

[@jonnyw82]

Looking forward to this one, just bought his book a couple days ago.

[@glennrudolph]

Gonna be a good morning with this in the background

[@donaldmike9709]

I haven’t started the podcast yet, but Andy you are awesome. Incredibly inspirational. Looking forward to the podcast!

[@HuGenitals]

Had to come here and drop a like after hearing the audio of this.

[@unicornprincess8896]

Ephraim you are an amazing person. Thank you for your service 💞

[@weezyano3379]

True Hero at Heart ❤️. He went to Iraq on his own an didn’t have to. He truly cares about human life. No matter race or where there raised at. U can tell he was the one who beat up the bully’s an made them stop picking on weaker kids at school❤️💯🤙🏿

[@zachring7461]

“Above all i fear they would say that you are weak and we are strong” W.C.

[@ArturoGarcia-oe1ib]

Whose the accident that gave this a thumbs down

[@Vitalbowhunting]

Isis fighters

[@williamstocker584]

An isis sympathizer

[@832KJV]

Very impressive human being. May God keep you safe Ephraim.

[@lalakingo7]

Andy, I really hope you will read this and respond. I would love to know what you think about all this. Cause you were very very quiet throughout this. The reason I love your podcasts so much is the perspective you bring, whether I agree or not. There is a way you break things down and analyse them thats just awesome. And jeez I am kinda at a complete loss with this guy. Would really love to know a proper breakdown about it all this from you. What did you think of his time after service as a medic ? and what do you think of his non-profit ?

[@jimmyjones4398]

Outstanding.

[@curtismichael630]

Love your podcast/KZbin channel keep up the good work

[@israhelldid9116]

God bless people like these heroes.

[@northstar92]

enormous respect for this hero

[@akimbo5u]

Really great podcast loved every minute of it! Would love to see a cross podcast with Rogan so he gets even more exposure. Afterall i found out about jocko and andy from Joe

[@V00ify]

remember turning in hand written receipt from bill's bar in pattya for lodging receipt...somehow sfg knew of this place already great conversation...thanx

[@itruck1]

Pattaya is a fun place to hang out for a month or two, or three. LOL

[@pavelowjohn9167]

Another great podcast, keep 'em coming. Favorite part: At the 1:20:00 mark, I could almost read Andy's mind when Ephraim said "...there was no US military presence". Andy: Oh there was a US military presence there, E-man, it was a SEAL on terminal leave (aka still on active duty). Had to laugh a bit at that, I can remember being on terminal leave and having to remind myself "you're not out quite yet, dude, don't do anything crazy."

[@ForOrAgainstUs]

Thanks for giving me a heads up for this part. I was waiting for it, putting the pieces together as I get there, and the penny drops around 1:17:00 and it's just gold from there.

[@mrsir1872]

damn, i might need to go fly somewhere and go on vacation for a while. id freakin love to travel with no one in the airports, what a dream. might have to go experience this.

[@AMG-316]

If any of you doubt the level of hard ass of this kid.... You can see him lay down heavy covering fire while one of the Berma Rangers rescues a poor little girl sitting with her dead family in the middle of the street caught in a cross-fire... Dude gets shot and keeps firing!! Total badass stud Muffin!! 🤙🛹🇺🇲✊

[@jimbanzo]

Killing it Andy.

[@defdef1354]

Same thing happened to me about 5 months before this podcast. Went to the airport a hour and a half early and had a hour and 20 minutes of wait time after security for my flight lol

[@Kamoisabozz]

this guy is a hero...jesus christ. words cant describe...

[@zac3392]

Good thing for the video... can hardly tell the voices apart

[@garydaly]

Great interview thank you

[@usuallyadam]

If I close my eyes, its literally Andy talking to Andy.

[@smithaz1981]

This podcast is gaining momentum.

[@Sarge80]

Mr Mattos: I grew up around Cheese, corn and cows. Me: dang he is from the Netherlands... Mr Mattos: I grew up in Wisconson. ..........Hahaha

[@eriklarson9137]

Wisconsin is beyond the cheddar curtain. We don't talk about Wisconsin.

[@andrewhamilton7628]

Hahaha

[@lovejesus7775]

This man is my hero!!!

[@Boltman47]

I hope he talks about the craziness in Venezuela a week or two ago

[@nicholasemerson9852]

Imagine having to leave the seal teams to kick ass and save lives.

[@caseyosborn875]

This dude is nails!!🤘🏻

[@MrTheG1]

Great podcast

[@ConnyYngve]

Looking forward to the you having him back. One of the best podcast I've listened to. The actions to save that girl is Medal of honor material in my opinion (eight civilians have received the honor for their actions on the battlefield). Andy look really uncomfortable (with all right's) as he is talking about the battle of Mosul. Thanks for another awesome episode!

[@artrock8175]

The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who watch them without doing anything ― Albert Einstein

[@christianstevens9804]

After listening to you interview with Grossman (painful to follow his logic?) this is refreshing. I was worried Ephraim was going to be a Christ warrior and he sounds like an awesome humanoid doing truly amazing things for those caught in the crossfire.

[@nickswenson4845]

YO great podcast interesting contrast in the different parts of his life journey! Try to get Eddie Penny on please, hes also got an interesting path to faith

[@sidcrosby7370]

if someone ever will tell the girl "i love you so much, i would die for you" it will leave her cold, as in her childhood there were brave men, who already proved that.

[@doggie7602]

Holy shit, they sound just like each other. I was doing something else while listning and if i zoned out a little, then i kinda got confused who was talking. Great stories and interesting person.

[@nicholasemerson9852]

Haha I thought the same thing

[@raderadic1646]

Great podacst Andy. Best regards

[@ottohonkala6861]

thank god for video....could we get subtitles next?

[@Dreyden-]

I just watch a stream about Ephraim Mattos. He is my Hero.

[@TammyDoron]

I am 53 years old. I want to grow up and be even a third the man Ephraim is.

[@panchovilla7580]

Andy was about to have a heart attack when he heard he used his iPhone 😭😭

[@austinohlrich9370]

Can I get an Amen for best fuggin podcast channel!!

[@anderschristensen4072]

wow...just wow. no need to say more.

[@theengineer9910]

great podcast andy

[@amandachairez6634]

My mind is blown and he is a year older than me! I need to do more! 💀🔨🔨🇺🇸🚑

[@theguy1633]

Theres footage of Ephraim and his guys saving the girl, along of when he got shot but kept going. Incredible stuff. He talks about it in the podcast around the 1:37:45 mark kzbin.info/www/bejne/hF7Lgp99osiZeqc 1:41:15 in the podcast is 0:45 in the footage I have linked above.

[@dylanclark8358]

I saw that video a couple years ago and a bunch of times since. It's crazy hearing him talk about everything leading up to that. You don't get 2 perspectives too often.

[@mr.tall-man1573]

Good I was about to post it.

[@BostonsF1nest]

Wow I heard him mention it was filmed on Ritlands show but I forgot to look it up. Incredible footage and that story is fascinating.

[@stevenh6376]

In stark contrast to seal Gallagher

[@southernmostrebel]

deception

[@zac3392]

I think it’s: “A soft answer turns away wrath...” I guess “breaking bones” is the military version of the saying 😝

[@riggsmurtah2788]

Crazy hardcore SOB going to Erbil with little support, not even with a contracting agency DAMN.

[@chriswehrer7213]

Im donating u deserve every dollar!

[@tomthomsen]

HOW ARE YOUR VOICES SO SIMILAR??? I can’t tell when Andy is talking.

[@leesadexter7187]

Mr. Mattos I have ABSOLUTELY NOTHING but TOTAL respect for you & your guardian angel & our 12 star General Mother Mary!!! If it wasn't for DIVINE INTERVENTION you would have lost your life along time ago!! You were born to do this fight against the most vile & evil in the world...it was planned BEFORE you were born. The people you worked with also. God bless you.. actually he already has! If it wasn't you fighting against the evil thousands more would have been killed. What a warrior you are!! Thank God you were born!

[@mattadrev471]

1:41:00 It was the right call man.... We need you here to keep fighting and telling these stories.

[@joelbebermeyer985]

Good on ya sir!

[@AM-hm5eq]

You made me laugh so hard about NKO and DTS so funny. I would go straight wing suit vise use DTS any day no matter how dangerous.

[@smithaz1981]

This dude reminds me of Tom cruise in collateral.

[@samross8329]

Truer words have not been said about NKO or DTS

[@pc15494]

anyone know which podcasts andy was on prior to this? the two in chicago?

[@kratoids]

this guy is a fucking savage. crazy how he basically did nothing with the seals but as soon as he went there on his own it was the wild west

[@Yogamannn]

I feel that God is like the force

[@Kahweekah2o2f]

Marvel? DC? He’s like hold my beer

[@cutdepiefails6596]

Who has the video of the tank thing he talked here?

[@jeremiah1059]

Going to the showers after lights out for a physical workout. Only in the Navy.

[@eregro6467]

I love the quality Adam, it would be cool if you would have a location like a studio were you would make all your podcasts.

[@BostonsF1nest]

Who?

[@TheEvaTho]

You guys clicked well! Good podcast, keep it up.

[@anthonylewis9256]

What is a sodif?? He said whoever controlled tga t sodif ?