In this conversation, Michael Sullivan shares his unique journey from studying anthropology to serving in the military and eventually working for the CIA. He discusses the impact of his autism diagnosis on his life choices and how neurodivergence often leads individuals to seek structured environments. The conversation delves into the complexities of PTSD, the nuances of trauma, and the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in both military and civilian life. Sullivan's insights provide a deeper understanding of the intersection between personal experiences, education, and career paths. In this conversation, Sully shares insights into the CIA's hiring process, emphasizing the psychological factors that influence candidate selection. He discusses the importance of managing personal issues and the role of shame in disqualification. The conversation then shifts to the unique training methods employed by the CIA, including immersive role-playing experiences. Sully reflects on his transition from a high-stress intelligence career to teaching, driven by a desire to raise his children in a stable environment. The discussion concludes with thoughts on the future of AI and its potential impact on global power dynamics, particularly between the US and China.
Support for Veterans & Their Loved Ones
If You’re a Veteran Needing Help:
Healthcare & Benefits: Visit [www.va.gov](https://www.va.gov) or call 1-800-698-2411 (MyVA411).
Mental Health & Crisis Support:
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online at [www.veteranscrisisline.net](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net).
Addiction Treatment (Alcohol/Drugs):
VA provides free, confidential care, including detox, rehab, and counseling.
Call 1-800-827-1000 or find a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program near you: [www.va.gov/find-locations](https://www.va.gov/find-locations).
Online resources: [www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use).
If You’re a Civilian (or Supporting a Loved One):
National Helpline (SAMHSA):
Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (24/7, confidential, English/Spanish).
- Treatment locator: [www.findtreatment.gov](https://findtreatment.gov).
...Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang
Ding dong! Join your culture consultants, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, on an unforgettable journey into the beating heart of CULTURE. Alongside sizzling special guests, they GET INTO the hottest pop-culture moments of the day and the formative cultural experiences that turned them into Culturistas. Produced by the Big Money Players Network and iHeartRadio.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.