Tom Spooner - Delta Force Operator | SRS

[@ShawnRyanShow]

This episode was released early on Patreon AD free, with the exception of Shawn’s personal reads. www.patreon.com/VigilanceElite The toll is $5 a month. Supporting us on Patreon and Ad Rev is what enables us to produce the quality content that we have come to love. We strive for perfection with each and every one of these stories. Please enjoy the show!

[@WinstonBromley]

Thank you Shawn for all that you do!

[@To23lL789gh]

Well done. 1 of the best

[@bradchris2154]

Mediocre at best.

[@Av-vd3wk]

What is this Gold scam BS you’re promoting?? Get real man.

[@Thomzombie303]

LOL, i was in 3/504, Recon, i remember the thunderdome, couple thousand of us in that damn building..also remember the scud missle that fly over us, just before the ground war started.

[@timboorn9454]

82nd airborne 77-84. We called it cherry belly. You were aloud 3 beers during lunch. You could get any drug you wanted on Bragg or in Fayetteville. All that started me on my down spiral. Christ heeled my of my 35 plus years being a alcoholic. 9 years sober now. This show and all his guests are vital for our warriors.

[@ShawnRyanShow]

Congratulations man.

[@DJPTEXAS]

Congratulations.. God bless... I was at the 82nd during those years and yes, I remember as a cherry my Squad leader brought me to a bar for lunch.... how many beers later we were soon back at the company, then running around the woods doing a compass course in the heat... they did call us lovingly the "Jumpin Junkies" ! Lol.... we had pot plants growing around the Company building where the troops would toss stuff out of the windows during an unannounced drug inspection with the drug dogs....

[@Test_1-2-3-i1h]

Unfortunately the Murk in Fayetteville probably hasn’t changed

[@choppermorgan9946]

God bless both of you and for your service to our country I know it looks bad right now but you guys are some badass bed God bless your lives and your children I can't thank you enough for your service for this country and keep it by family safe The Morgan family Indiana USA God bless America

[@DJPTEXAS]

@@choppermorgan9946 God bless you and your family..

[@mattb4379]

104 days sober from alcohol today. Thank the lord Edit - 173 days. Super thankful for the support and love coming back to this comment section. Keep pushing boys 🫡

[@BigORider]

138 days

[@rileywalker4271]

89 days

[@ScottWessels]

+2 days, brother

[@daveoldham3894]

Keep pushing guys, it does get easier, I'm 236 days today and it's still difficult sometimes but stay focused and we will achieve our goals, stay 💪 💪

[@MrRolloBaggins]

Keep going guys!!! I'm 5 years sober this go-around. The six months mark is where your brain and gut truly start to work as they should. U will get better (mind body and soul) every hour of everyday. It's hard but it's the most fulfilling thing. It's like being reborn and feeling young again. Like u a re truly alive

[@jasonviola1880]

"I'll sit here and pray with you, or we can go outside and fight. I would be equally happy with either one." That was a fantastic quote.

[@Sammy-iu3bx]

No one asked for your opinion.

[@mikehuff9793]

In Belgium there’s an old saying about being a good neighbor: “I will k1ll you of if I must, I will help you if I can.”

[@robertK3371]

Absolutely classic

[@INCYTER]

Warrior poet and Son of God❤

[@Houseworksaws]

I completely agree.. It was funny but with the sense you know he’s completely serious. Highly trained but with a heart. God Bless our veterans 🙏

[@hunterbondurant2957]

I was in the Marine Corps for four years and drank myself into oblivion and for the three years I was out of the Marine Corps it continued to progress. I found AA by the grace of God. Which is where I met my wife and we now have a daughter that’s 18 days old. Ended up getting back into the Marine Corps and am completely sober and I’m so thankful for the opportunity to serve again fully grasping the blessing of the job and the men and women I get to work with everyday. Hearing this story of Tom gives me even more hope because he operated at the highest level in the military and was sober and that’s my goal. Sean your podcast does more than you think. These lessons of the men that have been on your podcast are saving people’s lives. No one is ever alone. My journey is just beginning. Blessed with the opportunity to share my experience, strength, and hope to the men and women that I serve with so that they don’t make the same mistakes. Thanks Sean for your podcast and Tom for sharing your story.

[@themetaphysicalaxe5506]

God bless man and Godspeed!

[@brimac58]

Sometimes it’s 15 minutes at a time…..God Bless🇺🇸

[@Swerve762]

Proud of you.

[@WYO-FAM]

Great comment brother, I hope you have a great day.

[@Sammy-iu3bx]

No one asked boy

[@OPD574]

Almost 2 months no alcohol. Began reading the bible at the same time. Mostly because of the men on this show. The longest I have ever gone in my adult life and Im 40. Man I can not tell you how good it was to hear Spooner talk about his mental health issues and his struggles with alcohol. Joined the Army (mn guard 19D) at 17 and then became a cop at 23. Drinking a huge part of both cultures and not a whole lot of talk about mental health. Definitely not much about spiritual health. Not drinking is very hard for me but Im in it for the long haul. Thank you Spooner and Ryan.

[@ashleymurray2709]

Good for you! This is huge!

[@peterdoesburg4312]

Psalm 51. Everyday. Makes life easier when you realize we are all sinners and we just need to try a little better everyday. God Bless you on your new chapter. God has you. We support you.

[@kixuh6314]

Good job man

[@swivel_lock]

Yo! Keep it pushin it is a struggle worth fighting and winning! I too struggle but will win!

[@taramoja8869]

Stay strong 💪

[@fergallawlor1353]

Scary how this absolute machine of a human being looks like your Dad about to sit down for Sunday dinner.

[@ashleymurray2709]

How I wish he was my Dad! 😂

[@christopherjordan2467]

Looks like a square ass Ned Flanders and could kill you in. Multiple ways

[@joshuayork467]

Truth Hollywood makes everyone think these guys are built like the Rock and most of them are far from that

[@deepakknaikable]

This is why I always give salutations instead of insults. You never know.

[@sn1per194]

It's a strange flex, isn't it?

[@labradorviewer2789]

I love the Delta stories more than any other organization.

[@beansbeansbeans4025]

The men from that organization is literally the best! Seem like normal humble dudes who are capable of anything. Simply the best.

[@GORRAM3]

Stop meatriding😂

[@replexity]

@@GORRAM3 You don’t know what that means. Go on somewhere.

[@GORRAM3]

​@@replexity Says the delta fanboy

[@replexity]

@@GORRAM3 I don’t know enough about any of these units to definitively have an opinion on which one operates at the highest level. My point is that you’re using meatriding too loosely. Giving someone their flowers or choosing a favorite is not meatriding.

[@twotimes81]

Tom is one of the nicest most humble men you will ever know. I'm so glad to know him as he helped me with my recovery.

[@WoodysSteakHouse]

❤

[@tudyk21]

It's this kind of interview that I come to the Shawn Ryan show for.

[@DZB666]

I only watch these ones

[@JC-di4uz]

Yeah man I'm sick of the conspiracy shit and the aliens 👽 and whatever the fuck

[@Dire_wolfe]

not me, I come to look at the ads

[@SomeJustice19k]

For real. It's my therapy.

[@rickgrimes7948]

Here here!!

[@Adventurer-AnthonyQuinn]

I really appreciate this interview. Combat veteran, 3 deployments to Iraq followed by ptsd and substance abuse. I went through years of struggle and tried everything to get better and took a little from each place I went. This culminated in 42 days at Warrior’s Heart where I picked up some interests that I use every day to stay sober. Jiujitsu, yoga, fishing, woodworking and metal working. None of the other programs offered these things. Years of substance abuse stole all of my interests and hobbies. I didn’t do anything for fun and had completely forgotten how to until my time at the facility in Bandera, Texas. Thank you Tom

[@ericgibson2079]

That's a heavy testimony. God Bless you and may you continue to be a good person to be around and help our nation through these wars.

[@mattrolih1550]

I am glad you saw your worth! I hate that we probably all know those who could never find it! You got out of it! I am personally in between. How do I answer or help the others who want help? I can't turn my back on them, but I am not at a place to give advice! This is a problem no ones even given advice on. They dont want treatment on their record or a program. Hell, I dont want it or suggest it! It's a hell of a position! What made you realize and change?

[@GORRAM3]

Thanks for the irrelevant paragraph Anthony.

[@danielsullivan7740]

@@GORRAM3 what is so irrelevant about it?

[@WYO-FAM]

One day at a time brother, have a great day.

[@seraphim_eternal]

Delta and DEVGRU guys give the best interviews. Truly our nations finest.

[@Itsthatoneguy371]

I’m not a service guy, what does DEVGRU mean?

[@MAB3776s]

@@Itsthatoneguy371 Development Group, it’s essentially, I believe, seal team 6. Which are some of the best of the best. Hand selected warriors.

[@Tetelestai_John]

​@brianbishop4753 Development Group aka Navy SEAL Team Six aka The Command

[@FourthExile]

@@Itsthatoneguy371 welcome to the military acronym rabbithole, or, the MAR

[@Usmc03556]

This is a prime example of what we as veterans need.. sobriety, mental health, healing in multiple facets of our lives.. all these years of suffering I only began to heal when I became completely sober, my journey has only just begun, thank u msgt, for everything you have done and continue to do.. to all my brothers out there please never give up, I know surrender is not in our creed but it truly takes complete surrender of self and you will pull out of this.. semper Fidelis.. 0311/.. 2/5, sgt..

[@thecombatengineer7069]

Dude, the “I understand,” “you just told me I was injured and I’m not crazy” brought tears to my eyes. I’m loosing such much mental acuity every year…but that simple little acknowledgement…goes so far. I know you weren’t “talking to me” but yes, you were. Thanks brotha.

[@larryapl]

Amen!

[@WoodysSteakHouse]

❤

[@GORRAM3]

How corny😂

[@jaseone]

100%

[@yorboyroyboy9829]

Traumatic Brain Injury is very real, My man.. And it does do weird sht to our brains.. I thought I was the only one.. My civilian buddies That I knew since Jr. High School. Couldn't understand and thought I was nuts.. It took atleast a decade. Before the internet got advanced enough. That I seen others talking and hinting towards The same sht I was going thru.. Your not crazy.. And I would bet Dollars to donuts. If you went to get your head scanned by folks that understand TBI.. They will Evan show you the injury.. Anyway.. Your not nutz man.. You were injured long ago

[@slam-master4187]

As a 27 year LEO my God this episode hit me hard in the heart. I’m 5 years sober I’m a devout Christian, my amazing wife never left me when she should have I was so nasty to everyone I loved. But by the love of my wife God and a good brother who just died yesterday kept me from eating my gun saved me. I’ll never be that monster I’m good, I have a very good base of pillars. Thank you Shawn

[@rp03md2]

Prayers

[@mattrolih1550]

I am happy you didn't do it!!! No one thinks of the lives ruined when people do it! You can change and become a pillar of being a hero of all citizens!! Please uphold the Constitution! NEVER violate anyones civil rights! Its a thankless job, like the military! I pray God allows you the strength to fight injustice and to uphold our Constitutional rights! You'll forever be safe in the arms of the Lord and never need to fear! I pray daily for officers safety! Law enforcement needs to also care about our safety!! The country isnt against law enforcement. However, you all seem to think we are! Thats why I pray for you all daily!!! In Afghanistan our ROE went from open to redistricted. From dispatching an identified target to having a weapon to it being pointed and it going off toward you. (YT doesnt allow certain words!) Ask yourself, is the job for you or partners? Bad days can cause severe penalties. No one reasonable wants you to eat it, quit or fail!!!! We just dont need tyrannical enforcers destroying lives!!! I wish you the best!!! Thank you for sharing!!! It takes balls!!! Lots of balls!!! You clearly have the strength to be great!!! You are great!!!

[@CaptainWillard830]

My condolences for the loss of your brother. You will see him again. Semper Fidelis

[@ColdWarVeteran-r2j]

1 Corinthians 10:13

[@nighttrain06nc20]

Warriors Heart truly changed and saved my life. Tom’s in the chow hall eating with us everyday then you see him mowing the damn grass lol. Amazing guy and even more amazing program

[@zachscott4867]

I’m just learning about Tom now but the comments (where I lurk) tells me a lot about his character. Thanks you👍🏼

[@MTG9878]

I’m happy you are here. It is great you found him!

[@stephenhanchey594]

Me too! Bandera TX, I hope you’re doing good!

[@GORRAM3]

Who asked for your opinion?

[@twotimes81]

Proud Alumni myself

[@tucker4174]

Shawn. The way you know how to let these men speak. No interruptions. It’s truly amazing.

[@Cjones322]

Tom, you have saved far more lives than you have taken. Thank you. - Curtis Warriors Heart Alumni

[@donkeyboom6047]

More than you know Tom! -Stephen Warriors Heart Alumni

[@1028Kee]

​l

[@WoodysSteakHouse]

❤

[@nathanielmacelroy1988]

That is the point. Man

[@KennethBrooks-wm9sq]

GOD Bless you brother, retired SGM from the 82nd, have been addicted to opioids and an alcoholic. 2 years sober, Thank you for sharing!

[@Mordant.Melodys]

God Bless YOU, SGM! I’m proud of you for your sobriety. I’m a vet as well and just celebrated 5 years sober. Lead by example. This comment may very well inspire a lower enlisted guy to find sobriety because he sees comments from men like you, whom he looks up to. Thank you for sharing and being open and honest about a tough subject. Stay well brother.

[@ericgibson2079]

If you read this and are dealing with addiction. Right now let these words fill you with Jesus Christs victory. May the Holy Spirit be yours very very soon. Please pick up the New Testament and allow the Truth to become true to you.

[@GROCK619]

Nice work Ken

[@Sammy-iu3bx]

No one asked for opinion Kenneth.

[@crewthief1431]

@@Sammy-iu3bxand no one cares what you think, son. You really shouldn’t address your betters without asking permission first.

[@jasondedic]

"My only emotional tool was alcohol." That was the realest quote I've ever heard. (5 years sober)

[@M4HRed]

Congrats brother one day at a time

[@jasondedic]

@@M4HRed 💯

[@brock45569]

🎉

[@M4HRed]

@OceanInMotion nice bro! Love to hear it.

[@bigwilly4587]

Good for you one day at a time

[@ALDAVISON231]

Mr. Spooner did not murder anyone. He killed bad guys. Huge difference. The bible spells that out. I love this show. God bless.

[@dianasitek3595]

He killed bad guys who were also humans.

[@ShootinStrate]

@@dianasitek3595Thank Tom Spooner or you could never make a self-righteous statement like that.

[@wolf5505]

@ShootinStrate - nothing the military does has anything to do with preserving 'rights' or 'freedoms' for Americans. No one is buying that ignorant narrative anymore, I'm sorry.

[@ShootinStrate]

@@wolf5505 So, by extension you are saying all who died on 9/11 had it coming. Or at least we should have done nothing about it. Nearly 3,000 innocent people at work, traveling to see family, with family, or for business on a Tuesday morning murdered in cold-blood. I don’t believe family, friends, or right thinking citizens feel that our shutting down heartless attacks like these, at their source, amount to “ignorant narrative.”

[@RohanAirsoft]

If you care about 9/11 you should be looking at Israel, Mossad, and Saudi Arabia. We invaded Iraq because Israel & AIPAC run America, they had nothing to do with 9/11 or terrorism.

[@dhooter]

Saving this for my 10hr drive on Wednesday

[@ShawnRyanShow]

Right on!!

[@Seakaye2s]

This is so relatable. When you listen to really good shit, ya want to save it haha. Drive safe boss!

[@tech6263]

To hear him talk about the anger, for no real reason. Feeling like he doesn’t deserve anything good. I lived that too. I wanted my wife to leave me even though it scared me to think of living without her. I wanted her to be happy because I knew how miserable I was and how that must be to live with. I have come to terms with why I felt dirty. Unlovable. I’m not angry about anything anymore. We could not been happier. I wanted to hear war stories but heard it isn’t just me. There is hope. You can turn your life around. We are the biggest obstacles to overcome come. Never quit.

[@jricknuts8067]

I got a 1,500 mile drive next week. This is definitely on the playlist

[@Golgi-Gyges]

Enjoy!

[@paulmullen2191]

9/1/2006 - 9/2/2006 - Yusufiyah Iraq….God Bless you Tom! Couple days I will never forget. Don’t ever feel like you let us down! You guys were awesome! ❤

[@killmeslowly0029]

101st?

[@michellechewning4503]

Tom is such a good and humble man. Thank you for giving so much of your life in the service of others and for dedicating your life now to help others in their own journey to heal. You’re an inspiration to many!! ❤

[@TheJeremygoodyear]

I think this podcast just changed my life. Now the work begins... Thank you Tom and Shawn

[@rawrmusic55]

Striving to be like this man. He’s the product of a life well lived and an incredible resource for so many communities. God bless Mr. Spooner.

[@Demon-rq5de]

Tom, i know you'll never read this but just want to say you're one Honorable man. Honorable to your family, your team and your self. The honesty about your self, to your self is something everyone should emulate. Much respect.

[@Last_Chance.]

I chewed some dirt with spooner back in the day. He's a damn good man. It's good to see him doing well.

[@LP3me]

By dirt do you mean Copenhagen snuff or is that some other reference?

[@Frank-uw5xq]

The kind of dirt Tom Sizemore put in jars on Private Ryan

[@HaHa-mg2lw]

😆

[@Smoke3380]

​@Bluepickles333 bro....cmon

[@Danyello_0]

@@LP3meJesus no. 😂

[@ice-cream-kid]

Hey guys, I'm a vet and an alcoholic in recovery. Shawn, thanks for asking him and giving him space to open up about it all; and Tom, thanks for being honest. I almost cried a few times thinking about you and your wife and my early days of recovery. Truly an amazing journey for those who "are willing to go to any length to get it". Thanks again.

[@bazztiki]

This is the interview I have been wanting to hear. Tom Spooner is the man! He is a wise man with so much in his past. Thank you for this episode!

[@gernblanston4956]

I'm not military but I love watching these interviews and learning what you guys go through and deal with. All the respect in the world, thanks to all who serve!

[@brucemallick1293]

His story of Airborne School brought back memories. My Dad came and jumped with me on my 5th jump in 1991. Gave me my blood wings on the DZ - said he wasn’t waiting until the next day. His father who I never met jumped into Normandy and is buried at Fort Benning too.

[@ericgibson2079]

Wow, that's really cool. What a testament.

[@Ok-551]

Happy Memorial Day to all of you. God bless.

[@robertK3371]

That's awesome to hear.

[@chitterlingsrtasty]

That's kickass.

[@robertK3371]

@@brucemallick1293 If you don't mind me asking, I too went through jump school in 1991. Right afterwards, I got on a bus and went to RIP. Do you recall what month you went through?

[@peterlaughlin930]

I’ve said it before you are the best interviewer I’ve ever seen you let your guest talk. You don’t overt them. You don’t try to impress them with what you did you let them tell me a story. It’s a rare gift to be able to do this. God bless you, Shawn

[@J.Ferghus]

Tom spits sincere and wholesome wisdom. 31 years of sobriety is a remarkable symbol of his discipline - a trait a lot of us warriors know well, but we also know there are different levels of discipline. This gentleman is a case study for discipline. Thanks for your service, Tom. Semper Fi!

[@Z0PP8852]

i was a vol. fire fighter in a busy town in NY for a very long time, around 13 years, the PTSD has crippled me and im just now digging back out. this man is a man i didnt knwo i looked up to until i saw this. thank you warrior

[@pietervanderwesthuizen2106]

I am the wife of a ex vet, listening to this show has helped me understand my husband much better, they tight lipped about the war and that I understand, but now I understand better how to support him. He had no help integrating back into society he did it all by himself and the grace of God, his nightmares has stopped. I know what he has seen and done, still drives many of his disciplines and governs many of his choices. He is always in war mode, but not at war., it that makes sense.

[@techtime999-9]

This is important and not all women are as good as you. Thank you, he needs this.

[@HarrisonFord11]

2/75 09-15. 4 rotations to Afghanistan and 1 to Iraq. 1-6 month deployment and 4-110 day deployments. This episode spoke to me. Family saved me from myself. My children and wife became everything. I had to leave the old life behind and realize like most say the special ops train never stops either you’re on it or you’re off. It leaves you behind quickly. Sounds cheesy but the book fearless (the Adam Brown Story) inspired me to be a better human, father and husband. Sober since April 2019.

[@bcmchozeh]

Great book about a man wrestling with God...

[@the_roflcakes]

One of the best, most descriptive, honorable men I have ever listened to. Unbelievable example of an American. This interview made Tom Spooner one of my heroes.

[@tpshunter72]

The Legendary Delta Force Operator!!!! Mr Spooner!!! Just to think 10 years in Delta as a Breacher & Sniper! & A veteran of the gulf war & War on terror! What a man!

[@robertK3371]

Absolutely!

[@3SIXTYPROD]

Thank you Shawn for letting these men tell their stories…… they need to be told and need to be heard! You are doing a hell of a job!!

[@cameronshorkey843]

I appreciate Shawn's politeness and respect in these interviews. Like in this one when he respectfully says "I'd like to chime in on that if you don't mind." It's so simple, but it's an example of how to behave in a conversation.

[@jesuschristsuperczar1224]

I’m the son of a Vietnam combat medic vet who brought it home. I’m not SOF guy and my dad was just a patriotic kid in ‘67 who wanted to fight for his county. Believe it or not, I have felt this intensity as a child of a man who suffered all the PTSD and TBI that my dad suffered. No. I didn’t deal with war like he did, but our family (my little brother and my mom and I) lived a different life than those around us. My dad was my hero and still is.

[@Last_Chance.]

God bless you and your family

[@gtoolejr]

Me too buddy, me too. Dad was an SF medic. Childhood was.......interesting.

[@everhea9907]

Sorry if this is an annoying question but was is SOF and TBI?

[@Coopdawg67]

@@everhea9907SOF= Special operations force TBI= Traumatic brain injury

[@randyhavener1851]

God Bless your Father, your Mother, you and your family!! Thank you! My Father fought in Europe in WWII. We never talked about it very much, but there was a whole different mind set back then.

[@timbroderick4454]

This guy is an awesome human being. Almost 22 years for me. Wish I cut it out a lot sooner in my time in. Quit cold turkey. Still plenty of challenges in life. Still a fight. Always helps hearing other’s experiences. Thanks Tom and Shawn for sharing.

[@ericolsen1678]

Thank you Tom and SRS! Legendary man to say the least! He talked about what he did in the unit for what? 20-40 minutes? Hes as humble as a man can get. He is a great human being! Thank you and God bless you 🙏

[@truthseeker1536]

I have ADHD I can't keep a thought in my head, and I can sit for 4 hours watching SRS. Thank you for everything you do!

[@RealChristinaLivingston]

I can’t count the number of times I cried watching this. As a civilian, I had no idea what a mass casualty event could really be like and I’ve no doubt that I’ll never fully understand. However, after watching this, I definitely feel much more informed. Excellent interview. Tom Spooner is The MAN. Loved what he said about not feeling sorry for yourself and instead honoring those we’ve lost.

[@mda1501]

So many memories flooding up during this video. 30 plus years here, flew AH64s and UH60s in Afghanistan and Iraq. Thanks for your service!

[@PaWhiteTailHunter]

Tom is a phenomenal human! He's the type of guy police departments should be hiring to teach tactics. His personality is a catch all. So humble and down to earth! Thank you Mr. Spooner for your dedication and service to this country and many others! Rockstar!

[@theroller5673]

Tom Spooner is a legend on paper, an even bigger legend as a human. His absolute open heart, pure emotion, loving, honest, caring demeanor as a man, I hope to achieve. I was diagnosed with PTSD in my early 30's from child abuse. I wish I could say it was from a more glamorous military experience, but it is what it is. Almost 55 now and I still work every day on it. I was in joyful tears walking from my vehicle into the front doors of that office for the first time. I knew it was going to be work, I knew it was going to be difficult, I KNEW I was in the right place. My stuff happened 40+ years ago, even 50 years ago. Knowing what I know now...I wish I would have sought help sooner. It's a rotten way to live with so much shit in your cupboard. May God bless all veterans for their courage, and may God be with all of us who cry in the dark from time to time. Thank you Shawn Ryan! Thank you Tom Spooner!

[@seanbrando_7456]

I've been sober 10 years this May.........I always comment on the videos and wanna say thank's Shawn as always. This time however- I need to thank Mr. Spooner. From the first year I was sober I saw you on the early BCM videos and then heard you speak about the things you did with warriors heart, it was Men like you guys close to my age (42) and a little older who showed me that sobriety WAS NOT weakness. I had blinders on and always just thought - I - was the weak, chaotic screw up. I can't put into words what a profound impact all you guys had in the early years of my journey, right through THIS very day. We are all human. You guys opening up and being honest about grinding and struggling showed me it's not just all ME. Thank you for your service and all you've done for the community, you had a huge impact on how hard I have fought. Thank's to all the warriors who reinforced the truth in me, because after all nothing worth doing is easy. Thank's for being there after I come in from the woods, work or working out and providing wisdom and encouragement as well as honest truth. Thank's gentlemen. Keep on killin' it.

[@dianhammack7166]

Thank you Warriors for continuing to help people in such a meaningful way. God bless you both & your families.

[@leestanphill1]

Warriors Heart has saved so many lives, including my father. He has met Tom on several occasions and says he is a great human being. Thank you Tom for such a great rehabilitation program.

[@12gaugemackattack]

Sober almost 13 years. This was an amazing interview. There was so much here I needed to hear. It was like a really really good 4 hour long meeting. I can’t thank you both enough for everything that you’re doing.

[@jasonlamour4787]

I grew up with Tom and his siblings. All good people.

[@codybielik1838]

The section where he is talking about the mass casualty event, and you can see in his eyes how much that moment hurt. He gets chocked up a little bit and that right there is his love for his country, for the guys he served with. It's a sad moment, yet beautiful at the same time. Things like that are what makes me so proud to serve our great nation. Thank You Tom, thank you for all that you have done, and all that you have sacrificed. You are appreciated. Our country is grateful for all you have done.

[@donniebrasco2530]

Crazy to think Tom got sober a few months after I was born but our disease looks identical. Working on ten years now, thank you for your service and insight Mr. Spooner

[@donaldwalters6028]

This American Hero is so well spoken and humble. An awesome example for our younger warriors to emulate.

[@dirtyknucklegarage4085]

Thank you Shawn Ryan for doing what you do and thank you Tom Spooner for sharing your experiences and doing what you’re doing. Both of you need to know that there’s a whole lot of people that appreciate you and are very thankful for what you’ve done and for never giving up.

[@snuffcupofficial]

THANKYOU For Keeping us safe at Home , much love . TRUE HEROES

[@AnnaBeckett-l6j]

These are the reason I started watching this channel. Love the military lives. So grateful to have men like this so we have the freedom to live the lives we choose. Thank you both for your service. You guy’s are amazing.

[@pat80008]

Tom's interviews are always amazing. I hope they have his brother on.

[@Tom_Swellick]

1/506th from 06-10. Went to Warrior's Heart a few back after going through some VA programs for PTSD and substance abuse. Absolutely no comparison between them, and completely changed my mindset about life after combat. Loved being around Tom and his staff. Sidenote: I miss Valkyrie. Best service dog I've ever been around.

[@johnnyfamous]

Were you in Ramadi? If so we replaced yall at COP and Corregidor

[@28adpotter]

Shawn, I’m a personal friend of Cowden since high school, and I’m prior law enforcement and EMS. I have recurring nightmares of things I’ve seen & of other experiences. I now work for DoD, so I’m not gonna get into specifics due to clearance reasons. Please let Tom know that his story reached me in a very profound way, especially the rage & hostility issues. I’m most grateful for him sharing his story. I thought I was the only one dealing with some of those problems. And thank you, Shawn, for your work to make our world a better place. Love you for what you’re doing, brother.

[@M16xblowDRO]

Sober 3 years. And it took the exact same thing. Being overwhelmed and not having tools or capacity to deal with it, having to give it up to a higher power change everything for me. I used to to curse my parents for sending me to cat school, but I ain’t gonna lie. It instilled morals, values, and our relationship with God very early in life that I was able to tap into decades later to turn my life around and to help me deal with some seriously traumatic events as well

[@shaynemull7711]

You can literally see the sparkle in his eyes when he talks about the military, veterans his teammates and his wife. You see the joy in his face and the love he has for his country. Tom is a true hero.

[@nolisonlyne]

I'm not a military man, but I have a lot of respect for those that serve. Even more so since watching your podcast. This interview was incredible. As a sober man, Mr. Spooner has been the guest that I've identified with the most. I got sober on a Memorial Day and God willing, I'll be celebrating 12 years at the end of this month. 👊

[@calebleblanc2397]

You spooned with Spooner?

[@fireguy284]

35 yrs in fire-rescue…PTSD is no joke. Almost caused me to check out early. Thankfully I broke through the barriers of stigma, alcohol and self pity and sought help after hitting bottom. Now I’m making it my mission to warn others of how trauma can affect everyone differently and that there’s help available. Thank you for being a strong voice for others.

[@briangrace4995]

@Shawn, you interviewing skills are growing show by show. Your ability to ask questions and probe respectfully but directly is fantastic. You brought out so much brilliant, personal content from Tom, and gave him all the room he needed to fully explain his story. Keep this shit up!! What a fantastic guy Tom Spooner is. Truly inspirational.

[@freethinker1056]

I’ve just discovered your podcast and have shared it with many. The spiritual aspect of so many of you is so healing to me. I don’t know if you have had comments from the wives of war veterans, but I’m one. There were many very young wives in the Vietnam war with small babies who became bad asses for their husbands and children , supporting one another whose husbands were KIA, MIA, POW and were told by the SD and Navy to shut our mouths and accept whatever our husbands did because if we didn’t and they died, it’d be our fault. I threw that welcome book in the trash after I became a veteran in my own way 13 years later after having 5 children , losing one and being a single parent while my pilot husband was deployed and gone half the years. The drinking and womanizing finally broke me and I left to struggle raising children, working and going back to school so I could support us when support was sketchy and no effort of participation extended. Then I began to fight back as a political activist trying to make politicians responsible for spending our money and sending our families to war. I was born a golden retriever and grew up to be a Rottweiler and was the one who turned to God for survival while he went on to advance in the military. Wives grieved for what our men were going through and tried to cope by helping one another without any recognition. We had our own PTSD. Listening to you and the way you struggled to change and grow and included your wife and appreciated her for her efforts is healing to me even as our family never recovered. Because of the spiritual addition to my life and my children, we survived and thrived, and have nothing but respect and admiration for all our military men and women fighting in many aspects to save this country being eroded from within our own halls of power. Thank you for your service and for sharing your personal experiences. It helps many more than you know. I pray to our powerful and wonderful God for your continued strength and growth. Thank you for being real warriors.

[@donmoody9423]

Powerful. So good to see a humble hero. This video really got to me and I will see what I can do to support Warriors Heart. Thank you Shawn Ryan for making this interview happen.

[@Michael-ut7vj]

It’s an honor just being able to hear this conversation. Thank you so much for sharing your time and experience with us Tom. Truly, truly grateful.

[@Khart-327]

I find your podcast to be the most helpful and informative of all that I’ve listened to. I was going through airborne school in Jan of 90 and was 11b but went to the 101st. Tom’s story is so relatable. Civilian life I was a paramedic for 28 yrs, out now due to PTSD. The nonprofit I work for now assists rural first responders in my state with training and resources, we are heavily into the mental health aspect and I truly appreciate what you’re doing. One of the biggest hurdles is the stigma. I tell the first responders to listen to the SRS. Keep it up and thank you.

[@freesk13r]

Very powerful. This has helped me a lot in understanding my own addiction and how to live a good life after trauma.

[@TheStoreytime12]

Went through Warriors Heart in Bandera TX at the beginning of the year. Had the honor of meeting Tom and hearing him speak. He's an inspiration. Highly recommend going to WH if you need help

[@Cjones322]

Hello fellow WH Alum. Hope all is well brother.

[@eriklondon2946]

I was never military, but I have an immense gratitude and respect towards those who are there to protect us. I grew up near El Toro Marine Base, before it was shut down by Clinton. I know DC is extremely corrupt, and wish we weren't seemingly trying to get into every war possible.... I am glad there are places that are there to help our men get back some form of normalcy to their lives. I do wish WH was 100% covered or at least 99% covered by taxes/non-profits. Honestly, without a militia/military, we have no country. I have thought the same of VA benefits. Cheers.

[@GORRAM3]

Who asked for your opinion?🤡

[@nighttrain06nc20]

Same!

[@nathanielmacelroy1988]

Lifeboat

[@rodrob6285]

I have been looking forward to this for a long time. Tom Spooner was a name I first heard when I was coming along as a young soldier. This podcast is a chronicle and a testament to the very best guys and gals our country has to offer, and I am grateful to have been a part of it. You won’t find better warriors anywhere.

[@shanonporter4041]

I work at LBL Kentucky. Every year, 3/5 marine corp have their reunion. It is such an honor to me to be able to serve them while they are here. They are like my family and i love each and every one of them. Couldnt be around a better group of men and women!! Shout out to you, 3/5 Marines!!!! Veitnam unit!!

[@electricjellyfish375]

This guy is Amazing. Truly a Legend. He has an intrinsic understanding of trauma and so many other things that people struggle with, including addiction. That makes him a priceless asset for applying that understanding towards helping others. Thank You

[@tjordulf]

Shawn, I've gotta say, from my heart. Your service is continuing to blossom, Except now it's with a camera, not a gun. Through the medium of Deep Dives into very personal, heartfelt and traumatic experiences of your Top Shelf guests, you are bringing to the general public an insight into the mindset and experiences of real warfighters. In a way which is simultaneously, horrific, heartwarming, and in typical military style, funny at times. But you bring out, even from yourself, the pain, the humility, the humanity, the honour and above all the healing, to the eyes and ears of the general public. That many of whom will have little concept of. Which without pats on the back and glorification, allows the public to see the real human beings inside those uniforms. That these are not simply avatar characters in 'Call of Duty', but actual people, with emotions, and frailties, just like everyone else. THAT in itself is serving, the free thinking, freedom loving aspects of humanity in ways you may not be totally aware of. There's a reason this show has exploded, and what I've highlighted above, IS that reason, people want to hear these stories, people NEED to hear these stories, but not from some wet journalist, but an SF operator that knows EXACTLY what questions to ask, and moreover HOW to ask them!! I don't think Shawn, you'll ever know HOW many veterans you've helped by your continuing body of work, I think your military and combat experiences were ACTUALLY training for THIS, right now. Keep it up bud, people like you are going to save America, from Tyranny, through education, and awakening people, I truly mean that. Even with your DMT experiences and guests like Randall Carlson and the other non military guests, it's ALL part of something Waay bigger than your military career!! But, deep down, you know that. Peace bro💚🙏🏻

[@tjordulf]

@@thankfullyredeemedmaderigh7436 Thankyou.

[@gg3596]

Well said & agree 100%

[@tjordulf]

@@gg3596 thanks 😊👍🏻

[@nathanielmacelroy1988]

A image. Can cost oh so much. Just one photo? There goes your id ten T

[@pattiebrockley1303]

These podcasts have changed my life; my thought processes and the way I've begun to handle matters on my life. Also, I've been given a up close personal view and appreciation for the service of these warriors. Shawn Ryan, thank you for gathering together these Mighty Men and Women to tell their truths; to encourage, enlighten, educate me ...any one who tunes in.

[@downtown4028]

The mere fact that the U.S. government does very little to help our veterans with trauma is sad. This is for every veteran and active duty service member of the U.S. military.... the wicked who run this country will get theirs, by the Hand of God himself. Blessings all.... and buckle up.

[@figgiefigueroa7372]

I can see the positive influence this channel has on hundreds of mens who were soldiers now veterans. Is a basket of wisdom from each and every one who gets to be interviewed. Congratulations to all who served and triple congrats 👏 to all who grow up and became sober for Life. Hats 🎩 off to all of you who move up in the ladder 🪜 of life.

[@vigilantofstendarr6276]

What a fantastic story and example of redemption. Tom has so much humility,it’s inspiring 🇺🇸

[@RS-su3br]

Definitely one of my favorite episodes. Tom, gives very unique perspectives on life, that in return had me thinking of stuff going on in mine. Tom is also well spoken and is a master at painting that picture of his life that he’s speaking on. Thank you Shawn.

[@djrigmarole7077]

What a wonderfully humble man.

[@WoodysSteakHouse]

Fact

[@ThePoorBoy]

This one was really deep for me. My mother's late partner was 7th Group, and he was in at the same time that Tom was in. I have a feeling that he and Tom knew each other and served together (both were engineers), and it's incredible how much Tom reminds me of him. But unlike Tom, he never found God, never found true peace and sobriety. May all of our wounded veterans find healing. May all of our lost veterans find peace. Thank you for your service, Tom. Thank you for sharing your story. God bless. God bless America.

[@opShuro]

Now this is a role model. I wish nothing but the best for all of our absolute warriors that serve and protect this country.

[@lookingforthemeaning]

Mr. Spooner. total respect from Germany . Especially about your talk on PTSD and the need to get help before you do something stupid. Having the courage to open up. I hope you win the war. You tell no one about

[@Robfog6]

What makes this podcast so special besides the untold combat stories, are the life lessons. The knowledge you can obtain and pass down to your kids is truly great!

[@JohnBarrios-x7l]

Tom you are so real...... Your words are pure. You hit the nail on the head!!!!!!! Shawn your program is real emotional. And very Intelligent!!!!!!!

[@kirkvilla9781]

I wish someone wouldve told me theadvice about getting another team together before you come home. Thats the smartest advice Ive ever heard.

[@rightsidewarrior2010]

I had the immense pleasure of serving with Tom! And the last thing you said, Sean is so true… “You’ve touched so many lives!“ I feel immensely blessed to have been one of those lives! Thank you Tom for all you’ve done and all you’re doing to help men get straight and be the men that they can be! Delta Dawgs!

[@victorchinchillvas]

This episode can't be described in words, in my opinion. So many layers, so many levels. Fckn A. Thank you for your service, and so much more.🙏🏽🇺🇸

[@5p3ctre3]

I'm week 1 sober from pills and alcohol. sucks like something fierce but thanks for posting this. I watched the whole thing in one sitting. God bless all the folks who suffer in silence, and thanks Shawn and Tom for what you're doing.

[@macdad159]

This is, without a doubt the greatest interview Shawn Ryan has done. Salute! RLTW

[@brendancockcroft9639]

Man,amazing interview once again Shawn. Dude reminds me so much of dad, SAS C Squadron Rhodesia. Such a humble guy.

[@austinrains5636]

Love it man cant get enough of this interview! I was a fucked up mess till this guy saved my ass!

[@JD-xm3mg]

Jesus did

[@GROCK619]

Thank goodness

[@twotimes81]

Amen saved me too

[@JasonThompson-g4m]

The wilder building

[@GORRAM3]

No one asked buddy

[@irrigator6543]

Super interview Shawn - Tom was very honest and shared so much of his personal life and journey, so thankful we have men like that willing to do the hard shit for our Nation.

[@zachrigby69]

This is the best one yet ! I’m in recovery and Tom here spits fire 🔥 and wisdom left and right ! This guy is my role model

[@donbarnett-tt4rc]

Another unreal warrior effecting us that served! Amazing man!

[@chrisharris6834]

Holy crap! Tom was at Staccato ranch on May 11th. I had no idea who he was, shook his hand. Incredible nice guy!! 🤯