Jocko Podcast 356: We Can Determine What Manner of Men We Will Be. With Ed Thelander
Oct 19, 2022
In this discussion, Ed Thelander, a retired Navy SEAL and political newcomer, shares his journey from military service to aspiring congressman. He delves into the intense challenges of Navy training and the resilience required to overcome them. Thelander reflects on his experiences in both combat and community service, emphasizing leadership and accountability in politics. He also tackles the complexities of the lobster industry in Maine and advocates for understanding varied perspectives amid political divides. His insights provide a compelling call to action for civic engagement.
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DEVGRU Screening
- Ed Thelander screened for DEVGRU but was not accepted as a corpsman and decided against cross-rating.
- He chose to join SEAL Team 4 because of their reputation and deployment locations.
Dengue Fever
- On deployment with SEAL Team 4, Ed Thelander contracted dengue fever.
- Despite being weak from the illness, he completed a grueling 20-kilometer hike.
Green Team and Personal Challenges
- While on Green Team at SEAL Team 4, Ed Thelander faced personal challenges including building a house, his father-in-law's illness, and the birth of his first child.
- These events coincided with demanding training exercises.

