Jason Redman: The SEAL Who Survived A Point Blank Ambush & Rose to Become a Bestselling Author, Renowned Leader

The Trident: Leadership Lessons from the Battlefield to the Boardroom
This week, Marcus, Melanie welcome an extraordinary warrior, leader, and encourager—Jason Redman, retired Navy SEAL, bestselling author, and one of the most respected voices on resilience and overcoming adversity.
Jason served 21 years in the U.S. Navy, including 11 years as an enlisted SEAL and 10 years as a SEAL officer, leading combat operations across the globe. His career is a study in grit, redemption, and relentless dedication—from early deployments in Central and South America to commanding SEAL teams in Iraq and Afghanistan.
But Jason’s life shifted forever on September 13, 2007, when he was acting as Assault Force Commander during a mission in Iraq. An enemy ambush erupted. Jason was shot eight times, including a devastating gunshot wound to the face. His team fought through, secured the target, and saved his life.
What followed was a recovery few could imagine: 40 surgeries, months in the hospital, and a battle not just for survival, but for identity, leadership, and purpose. Jason didn’t just recover—he returned to active duty and continued serving until retirement in 2013. His courage, valor, and leadership earned him the Purple Heart, Bronze Star with Valor, and the respect of warriors around the world.

Why This Episode Matters
Jason Redman has become one of the most powerful voices in America on resilience. His life is proof that the human spirit can rise, rebuild, and lead again—no matter the setback. Whether you’re fighting through a personal battle, searching for purpose, or simply need a reminder of what true grit looks like, Jason’s story will challenge, encourage, and strengthen you.

In this episode you will hear:
• The very first book I bought about the SEAL teams - I was in a truck stop and there was a case of books you could buy for a buck. There was a book about SEAL operations in Vietnam. Four years later, I checked into SEAL Team 4. (6:22)
• I was about 95lbs and 5’ tall at 15, and that recruiter took one look at me, and was like: “You are not what the SEALS are looking for.” (7:40)
• There are way more operational opportunities for enlisted SEALS than there are for officers. (20:44)
• Seaman to Admiral takes individuals who don’t have a degree. They send them to school. It’s an accelerated program. You’re part of the ROTC program. You commission out of that and you come back as a SEAL officer. (24:02)
• We were all bleeding so bad, and it created this mist in the helicopter of blood. The entire inside of the helicopter was coated in blood. (43:06)
• My recovery time took 4 years and 40 surgeries to put me back together. (43:38)
• Be thankful for the hardships you have in life and for hard things that happen because I think they set you up for success in other things. (43:48)
• Me failing as a leader was probably the hardest thing I’ve ever had to come back from. (43:56)
• Lead yourself, Lead others, Lead always. (44:39)
• [Marcus] When he was in the hospital, he wrote on a bright orange piece of paper and tacked it on the door. And he wrote this letter saying “Don’t come in here feeling sorry for me. I will overcome.” (48:48)
• It’s amazing when you’re around Christians who have a appreciation for the world and a love of Christ and a love of humanity. (51:07)
• These are questions I like to ask veterans: “What do you want to accomplish? What is your American dream? (53:52)
• Whether you’re starting your own business, or you’re a leader in a business, we need you. This country needs you. (64:47)

Support Jason Redman:
  - https://jasonredman.com/ 
   - IG: jasonredmanww

Support TNQ
  - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
  -  https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit

Sponsors:
  - Tractorsupply.com/hometownheroes
  - Navyfederal.org     
  - Dripd