Finding Your Tribe: Episode 2 with James McLanahan
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Overview
In this conversation, Nate Palin and James McLanahan discuss their journeys through military service and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. They explore the importance of finding a supportive community, maintaining physical fitness, and the value of mentorship. James shares insights from his experiences in the military and how they shaped his approach to life after service, including his creation of Primal Risk and volunteering with the Special Forces Association. The discussion emphasizes the need for veterans to stay active, both physically and socially, to foster resilience and a sense of purpose.
About James McLanahan
James McLanahan is a seasoned leader, educator, and operations specialist with over 20 years of experience in elite military and security roles. He has participated in over 300 direct action missions and developed systems that enhance efficiency and accountability under high-stakes conditions. James combines tactical expertise with strategic vision, having trained foreign forces, managed multimillion-dollar logistics, and learned Mandarin Chinese for cross-cultural operations.
James founded Primal Risk where he uses adventure as a teaching tool to empower tactical leaders, teams, and military members. In addition to his operational career, James has performed stunts over several seasons on the hit television series SEAL Team, blending action with storytelling.
James currently resides in Orange County, California with his wife Melanie and their two cats. He is a Mortgage Broker with Expert Home Loans.
Episode Takeaways
Finding your people after service is crucial.
Physical fitness impacts all areas of life.
Community support can help in transitioning to civilian life.
Continuous personal growth is essential for veterans.
Training and mentorship can shape future leaders.
The importance of maintaining a positive feedback loop in life.
Engaging in challenging activities fosters resilience.
It's easier to maintain fitness than to regain it.
Building a network takes time and effort.
Never underestimate the power of a supportive community.
Episode Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Early Connections
01:44 Journey into Service and Recruitment Challenges
04:43 The Reality of Military Life and Volunteering
09:44 Life After Service: Finding Your People
19:36 Engagement with the Special Forces Association
24:29 Community Impact and Youth Programs
29:08 Positive vs. Negative Feedback Loops in Life
33:57 The Power of Memes and Social Media Engagement
35:17 Navigating Career Transitions and Identity
36:52 Building Community and Friendships Post-Service
39:55 Adapting to Life Changes During COVID-19
41:31 Primal Risk: A New Venture in Tactical Training
49:46 Current Endeavors and Professional Growth
55:39 The Importance of Physical Fitness in Daily Life
