Mike Drop

Welcome to another episode of the Mike Drop podcast, where we dive deep into the stories of warriors, operators, and those who've lived on the edge. Mike Ritland, retired Navy SEAL, dog trainer, and author, sits down with Jeremy Rebmann—a true embodiment of dedication, precision, and service. Jeremy is a retired FBI Special Agent with an impressive 32-year career spanning the U.S. Air Force and the FBI. A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, he started as a Sortie Generation Officer and later served as a Special Agent in the USAF Office of Special Investigations. Transitioning to the FBI, he spent 23 years in the Oklahoma City Field Office, where he logged 21 years as a SWAT operator and sniper, tackling some of the Bureau's most high-stakes missions—from hostage rescues to counterterrorism ops. Beyond his tactical expertise, Jeremy is a certified pilot, WMD agent, emergency medical technician, and evidence response team member. He's also an accomplished author, with his top-10 bestselling short story "G

Welcome to Part 3 of Episode 260 of the Mike Drop podcast. Mike Ritland engages with guest Alan Shebaro, a U.S. Army veteran and advocate for Palestinian rights, diving deep into the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Shebaro challenges narratives around Hamas, Israeli policies, and U.S. involvement, drawing from his military background and experiences in the West Bank. The conversation covers controversial topics like alleged Israeli war crimes, the ethics of resistance, historical parallels to the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, and the role of international bodies like the UN and ICC. Beyond geopolitics, Shebaro shares his personal struggles with PTSD, addiction, and transitioning to civilian life, highlighting his creation of the We Defy Foundation, which helps veterans through jiu-jitsu scholarships. This episode is a raw blend of geopolitical debate, veteran mental health insights, and inspiring stories of resilience, perfect for listeners interested in military perspectives, global conflict

Dive into Part 2 of Episode 260 of the Mike Drop podcast, Ritland sits down with guest Alan Shebaro, a U.S. Army veteran and outspoken advocate for Palestinian rights, who shares his personal journey from military service in Iraq and Afghanistan to questioning U.S. foreign policy. Listeners will find thought-provoking discussions on the aftermath of 9/11, the ethics of American interventions abroad, critiques of historical U.S. involvement in the Middle East (including propping up regimes and overthrowing leaders), and a deep exploration of current global conflicts like Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Gaza. Shebaro draws from his firsthand experiences in the West Bank, offering controversial insights into geopolitics, isolationism, and calls for policy changes, all while reflecting on the human cost of war. This episode challenges conventional narratives and encourages critical thinking on international relations—perfect for those interested in military history, foreign policy debates, and veteran perspectives.

On this episode of the Mike Drop Podcast, Mike Ritland hosts Alan Shebaro, a former Green Beret sniper, 5th-degree jiu-jitsu black belt, and We Defy Foundation founder, supporting veterans with jiu-jitsu scholarships. Alan opens with a fiery take, branding Israel a "terrorist state" for displacing Palestinians and dismissing the "unprovoked" October attack narrative as a cover for decades of occupation. He challenges theological land claims, arguing ancient entitlements don’t justify modern evictions, reflecting on both sides’ fierce convictions. Alan shares his journey from a military brat in Europe and the Middle East to enlisting post-9/11, surviving the grueling SF Q-course, and enduring three intense Iraq deployments. His initial pride in "liberating the oppressed" soured as he questioned the trillions spent and lives lost for little gain, paralleling his critique of colonial conflicts like Israel-Palestine. Now in Vietnam, he’s the top-ranked jiu-jitsu practitioner, finding solace on the mat. Expect r

Welcome to Part 3 of Episode 259 of the Mike Drop Podcast, featuring guest Zach Skow, founder of Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue and the Pawsitive Change program. In this final installment, Zach and host Mike Ritland explore the successes and rare failures of inmate rehabilitation through dog training, delving into the U.S. prison system's flaws—including over-incarceration, drug ubiquity, and historical policies like the War on Drugs and the 1994 Crime Bill. Listeners will hear thought-provoking debates on reform ideas, from harsh punitive measures to humanity-focused programs, alongside stories of post-incarceration employment in the pet industry and Zach's gripping account of Operation Kabul Rescue, evacuating hundreds of animals amid Afghanistan's chaos. Packed with insights on second chances, societal change, and unbreakable human-animal bonds, this episode wraps up an epic conversation with raw honesty and inspiration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to Part 2 of Episode 259 of the Mike Drop Podcast, featuring guest Zach Skow, founder of Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue and the Pawsitive Change program. In this raw and inspiring continuation, Zach dives deep into his journey from near-death alcoholism and liver failure to finding purpose through rescuing dogs. Listeners will discover heartfelt stories of personal redemption, the harsh realities of America's dog overpopulation crisis—including debates on spaying/neutering, breeding ethics, and shelter euthanasia—and Zach's innovative work rehabilitating shelter dogs alongside incarcerated individuals in prisons. Expect thought-provoking discussions on animal welfare, inmate rehabilitation, second chances, and the transformative power of the human-animal bond, all delivered with unfiltered honesty and passion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful episode of the Mike Drop Podcast, Mike sits down with Zach Skow, founder of Marley’s Mutts and the Positive Change prison-dog program. What begins with the chaos of evacuating nearly 300 animals during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan unfolds into Zach’s raw story of addiction, survival, and redemption. From a troubled childhood to end-stage liver failure at 28, Zach was given 90 days to live. Saved by his bond with dogs, he rebuilt his life through sobriety, whole foods, and purpose. His recovery sparked Marley’s Mutts, a movement that rescues animals, transforms prisons, and helped Kern County achieve no-kill status. Together, Mike and Zach tackle the shelter crisis, breeding pitfalls, and the power of community education. Vulnerable, unflinching, and inspiring, this episode is a testament to second chances and leading with purpose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive into Part 3 of Episode 258 of The Mike Drop Podcast, where host Mike Ritland continues his gripping conversation with former CIA operative Andrew Bustamante. This segment dives deep into the personal and societal implications of living in a turbulent America, exploring Bustamante’s decision to relocate abroad to prioritize his children’s future amid rising national challenges. From the moral dilemmas of setting examples in declining communities to the growing wealth gap and its risks to democracy, they tackle tough topics like the failing public education system, foreign interference in U.S. affairs, and vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure. Bustamante shares candid insights on espionage, the FBI’s operational challenges, and the murky case of Jeffrey Epstein, while also touching on cryptocurrency’s role in a shifting economic landscape. With sharp analysis and real-world parallels, this episode is a compelling look at personal responsibility, global power dynamics, and preparing for an unc

Dive into Part 2 of Episode 258 of The Mike Drop Podcast, where host Mike Ritland sits down with former CIA operative Andrew Bustamante for a raw, unfiltered discussion on the intersections of free speech, privacy, and government overreach in the digital age. Listeners will explore timely topics like social media censorship, the risks of online anonymity, rising political violence (including recent assassinations and threats), and the potential for societal unrest or even civil war in America. Bustamante shares insights from his CIA memoir Shadow Cell, detailing covert operations, mole hunts, and the team-based reality of espionage. The conversation also touches on parenting in a hyper-connected world, national debt crises, and Bustamante's personal plans to relocate abroad amid America's turbulent future. Packed with thought-provoking analysis, historical parallels, and no-holds-barred opinions, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in intelligence, politics, and the challenges facing m

All right guys, today’s episode is one you don’t want to miss. Less than a week after the assassination of Charlie Kirk, we’re sitting down with someone who’s been on the inside of America’s shadow wars: Andrew Bustamante — former CIA officer, founder of Everyday Spy, host of the Everyday Spy podcast, and author of Shadow Cell, a book that pulls the curtain back on how America really fights its enemies. We get into the uncomfortable truths about government, the intelligence community, Russia, Ukraine, Israel, Hamas — and why history keeps repeating itself whether we like it or not. Andy doesn’t sugarcoat sh*t, and neither do I. So buckle up — this conversation goes deep into the stuff most people don’t want to talk about, but absolutely need to hear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to Part 3 of Episode 257 of the Mike Drop Podcast, where host Mike Ritland dives deeper into the unfiltered, hard-hitting world of truth and resilience with James McGibney, the fearless founder of Bullyville.com. In this explosive finale, James and Mike unpack the murky realities of cybercrime, from the chilling tactics of North Korean hackers to the dangers of data breaches and ransomware that can hijack your life. They tackle everything from Epstein’s elusive list and government corruption to practical tips for securing your digital castle against sextortion, catfishing, and for-hire stalkers. With candid reflections on military life, purpose, and the state of the nation, this episode blends gritty insights, actionable advice, and a dose of humor. Tune in on YouTube, Spotify, or your go-to podcast platform for a raw, eye-opening ride that’ll leave you ready to fight back against the digital chaos. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to Part 2 of Episode 257 of the Mike Drop Podcast, where host Mike Ritland brings his no-nonsense, battle-hardened perspective to raw conversations with warriors, survivors, and truth-tellers. This time, Mike sits down with James McGibney, the unapologetic founder of Bullyville.com, who’s spent over a decade hunting down online predators—from revenge porn kingpins like Hunter Moore to cyberstalkers hiding behind sock puppet accounts. In this gripping episode, you’ll hear jaw-dropping stories from McGibney’s fight to shut down the internet’s darkest corners, practical advice for parents on keeping kids safe in a digital jungle, and unfiltered takes on everything from swatting and AI deepfakes to cancel culture and Epstein conspiracies. Packed with hard-earned wisdom, a touch of humor, and a nod to Beam’s Dream Powder for warrior-level sleep, this is a masterclass in resilience and fighting back against the chaos of the online world. Stay tuned for Part 3. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podca

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another unfiltered, no-holds-barred episode of the Mike Drop Podcast—where relevancy is irrelevant, and we dive headfirst into the raw stories of warriors, survivors, and straight-up legends. In the shadowy underbelly of the early internet, one man turned the tables on a digital predator like no one else could. Dr. James McGibney, a former U.S. Marine and founder of ⁠Bullyville.com⁠, orchestrated the downfall of Hunter Moore—the infamous "revenge porn king" behind ⁠IsAnyoneUp.com⁠, the site's explosive takedown chronicled in Netflix's gripping documentary The Most Hated Man on the Internet. What started as a personal vow to infiltrate Moore's world, befriend him, and dismantle his empire from the inside became a masterclass in digital vigilantism, proving that sometimes, to beat a bully, you have to out-bully them. But McGibney's story isn't just about cyber sleuthing; it's forged in the fires of unimaginable hardship. Born in the South Bronx, he endured a childhood ripped ap

In Part 3 of Episode 256 of the Mike Drop Podcast, hosted by Mike Ritland, Navy SEAL veteran Kevin Kent continues his unfiltered recounting of high-stakes operations and his unexpected transition into Hollywood. This segment dives into the gritty details of Iraq deployments, from textbook raids gone awry—like hitting the wrong house marked by a faulty blue chem light—to intense firefights in Abu Bali, where Kevin unloads 400 rounds from a 46 gun in a chaotic ambush. He shares vivid stories of hauling bodies wrapped in carpets, mistakenly crossing into Syria, and a surreal encounter with Iranian soldiers on a river op in Basra. The episode also explores Kevin’s post-military career, sparked by his twins’ acting gigs, leading to technical advising on major films like Transformers and The Last Ship under mentor Harry Humphries. From navigating Hollywood’s feast-or-famine nature to launching the Liberty Risk podcast with fellow veterans, Kevin’s journey highlights the camaraderie, chaos, and adaptability of a

Welcome to Part 2 of Episode 256 on the Mike Drop Podcast, hosted by Mike Ritland, where we dive deep into the unfiltered world of elite military operators. In this gripping continuation, special guest Kevin Kent, a seasoned Navy SEAL veteran with a decade-plus of service in SEAL Team 5, opens up about his journey from BUD/S graduation in 2000 to nine deployments spanning pre- and post-9/11 eras. Listeners will get an raw, insider look at the chaotic camaraderie of checking into the notorious "Hollywood" Team 5, navigating bureaucratic nightmares like unwanted assignments to Yuma and penalty box stints, and the high-stakes evolution of combat ops—from peacetime exercises turning into real-world Gulf boardings to the Wild West intensity of early Iraq invasions. Expect hilarious hazing stories, heart-pounding tales of seizing hydroelectric dams under fire, eerie encounters with radiation silos, and candid reflections on promotions, injuries, and the shifting tides of warfare that shaped a generation of SEAL

Get ready for an explosive episode of the Mike Drop podcast, where we dive into the gritty, unfiltered life of Chief Special Warfare Operator Kevin Kent. With over two decades in the SEAL teams, Kevin’s story is a rollercoaster of high-stakes missions, near-death experiences, and lessons learned the hard way. From dodging tracers in the chaotic streets of Iraq during the 2003 deployment to navigating the wild aftermath of liberty incidents, Kevin’s journey is a raw testament to the resilience and grit it takes to thrive in the world’s most elite fighting force. His tales of camaraderie, chaos, and personal growth will pull you in and keep you on the edge of your seat. This episode isn’t just about war stories—it’s about the man behind the trident. Kevin opens up about his roots as an Army brat, growing up in Tennessee with a disciplined EOD father who shaped his path to the SEALs. He shares the pivotal moments that drove him to push past doubt and physical limits, from a regret-fueled high school football ex

In Part 3 of the Mike Drop Podcast with former DEA agent Wes Tabor, the stakes get higher as Wes recounts his perilous assignment in Venezuela, a narco-terrorist haven under Hugo Chavez’s regime. From dodging Cuban and Venezuelan intelligence to operating solo in a hostile environment, Wes shares heart-pounding stories of undercover operations, evading assassination attempts, and targeting high-value cartel members in a lawless "Wild West" of drug trafficking. He also reflects on the personal toll of his 35-year career, the betrayal of corrupt leadership, and the relentless drive that fueled his fight against global crime. This episode is a raw, unfiltered dive into the sacrifices and adrenaline of a DEA agent’s life on the edge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Part 2 of the gripping Mike Drop Podcast featuring Wes Tabor, a former DEA agent, listeners are taken deeper into the intense world of drug enforcement and high-stakes operations. Wes shares riveting stories from his recovery after a life-altering accident, his relentless pursuit of justice against the odds, and his experiences tackling major cases involving the Sinaloa Cartel and Hezbollah. From confronting criminals in the field to navigating the challenges of corruption within law enforcement, this episode dives into the raw realities of DEA work, including undercover operations, massive cash seizures, and the evolving threat of cryptocurrency in narco-terrorism. Expect unfiltered accounts of danger, sacrifice, and the moral fortitude that defined Wes’s career. Tune in for an unflinching look at the front lines of the war on drugs! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Get ready for an unflinching dive into the world of drug enforcement on this episode of the Mike Ritland Podcast, featuring Wes Tabor—a 35-year law enforcement veteran who spent over two decades with the DEA, operating across the United States, Central America, and South America. With stints embedded alongside the CIA and authorship credits for his eye-opening book Infiltrate America (plus the upcoming Beyond Blurry Lines set for next summer), Wes doesn't hold back as he recounts the brutal realities of his career. Mike and Wes dismantle pop culture myths about DEA agents—no, it's not all black fatigues and window-storming raids. Instead, Wes paints a picture of tedious investigations that turn spy-like overseas, while admitting the agency often fails at public messaging, leaving misconceptions about their focus (hint: they weren't chasing small-time weed dealers, but multi-ton shipments of cocaine and heroin from cartels in Venezuela, Colombia, and Mexico). He pulls no punches on DEA leadership, calling out

In Episode 254, Part 3 of the Mike Drop podcast, host Mike Ritland continues his conversation with former Green Beret Mark Gianconia, delving into the complex motivations behind the Iraq War and Mark’s post-combat transition. The episode opens with a discussion on the murky intelligence surrounding weapons of mass destruction and the decision to invade Iraq, exploring whether it was a justified response to perceived threats or influenced by ulterior motives. Mark reflects on the chaotic post-invasion landscape, including his role in devastating airstrikes against the Iraqi military, navigating minefields, and managing volatile tribal factions in Tuz. He shares the emotional toll of combat, including feelings of guilt and fear, which led to his decision to leave special operations. Mark’s career pivots dramatically as he becomes an instructor for the 18 Fox intelligence course, mastering geospatial intelligence and coding, which propels him into a tech career. He also discusses his book, One Green Bere