Mulligan Brothers Interviews

Master Shi Heng Yi, a Shaolin master who blends martial practice with Zen mind training, reflects on childhood wounds and the pressure to be someone. He explains letting go of persona, how trauma passes between generations, and why true Shaolin centers on mastering the mind. Short, reflective stories explore identity, hooks of thought, and finding freedom in presence.

In this episode, Jordan sits down with Josh Bridges, a Navy SEAL and six-time CrossFit Games athlete, to explore the mindset required to conquer some of the world's most gruelling physical and mental challenges. Josh opens up about his upbringing in St. Louis, Missouri, reflecting on how being raised by a resilient single mother and channeling his childhood aggression into wrestling laid the foundation for his formidable grit. He shares the pivotal moment he realized his corporate jobs in telemarketing and finance were unfulfilling, prompting a radical pivot to give himself eighteen months to prepare for elite military selection. Diving into his military career, Josh breaks down the reality of BUD/S training, debunking common misconceptions about physical preparation. He explains why sheer leg strength and a refusal to quit matter far more than passing standard entry fitness tests, and how overcoming the mental hurdles of cold water and endless physical punishment separated the graduates from the rest. He also recounts the unique experience of balancing active duty deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan with elite athletic training, a demanding dual life that culminated in a remarkable second-place finish at the 2011 CrossFit Games. Along the way, Josh shares lessons on leadership, recalling impactful encounters with figures like Jocko Willink and his own high school wrestling coach, illustrating the profound difference between demanding excellence and mere authority. Beyond the military and athletic accolades, the conversation delves into the personal struggles of transitioning out of elite arenas and the universal challenge of finding new purpose. Josh emphasises his "pay the man" philosophy, detailing why leaning into daily discomfort—whether through rucking, cold plunges, or consistent discipline, is essential for continually building self-confidence. Whether you are aspiring to pass a rigorous military selection or simply looking to forge a stronger, more resilient mindset for everyday life, this episode offers a compelling look at what it takes to relentlessly push your own limits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John McPhee, former Delta Force operator, strips away Hollywood myths about tier-one units. He contrasts the visible culture of Navy SEALs with Delta's low-profile 'gray man' approach. He recounts pre-internet selection, daily training realities, the traits Delta values, and why relentless work and learning from failure mattered.

Mick Hawkes, ex-special forces operator (2-9 Commando and SAS) turned security consultant. He shares gritty tales from the Falklands, undercover surveillance in Northern Ireland, a capture and interrogation in Bosnia with Billy Billingham, jungle training reforms after a fatal accident, and practical advice on active shooter response, rural protection, and realistic security training.

Tom Satterly, former Delta Force operator known for gritty selection and training stories, recounts near-collapse on a steep mountainside and losing his compass. He describes relentless endurance tests, the mental edge needed to keep moving, and the idea that selection never truly ends. Short, intense scenes highlight endurance, pacing, and the daily uncertainty of proving yourself.

Phil Daru, expert coach and former MMA/strength athlete, candidly recounts a failed 100-mile ruck that led to hospitalization and how he rebuilt to succeed. He talks about humility after arrogance, meticulous planning and medical support, faith and purpose driving him, and the mental grit of walking alone in the dark.

Save 10% off your Marek Health order by using code “MULLIGAN” at https://marekhealth.sjv.io/mulligan #ad For 24 hours early access to every interview, subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/MBIspotify https://apple.co/3U4Mi0h SALE ON NOW WITH CODE '2026' - https://www.mulliganbrothers.com Director / Interviewer - Jordan Mulligan https://www.instagram.com/jordanmulliganbrother ORDER WILLIAM'S BOOK NOW US & CANADA: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/william-mulligan/the-everyday-stoic/9780762488940/ SkillShare 50% Off - https://skillshare.eqcm.net/c/3543293/1718831/4650 Our Main Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@MulliganBrothers/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today's interview, Jordan sits down with the legendary heavy-hitter Eric "Butterbean" Esch to discuss a life story that spans from the height of global fame to the brink of physical collapse. Known for his "King of the Four-Rounders" status and his iconic appearance in Jackass, Butterbean candidly reveals the grit developed during his early years in rural Alabama, where he transitioned from a 100-degree factory floor to the world of professional fighting to provide for his family. The conversation takes a somber turn as Eric reflects on the "dark years"—a seven-year spiral into severe disability following a hip injury. He describes the crushing depression of being confined to a mobility scooter and the moment he began giving away his possessions, believing he had less than a year to live. This episode highlights his improbable redemption through DDP Yoga, a journey that saw him lose over 200 lbs and reclaim his life when doctors said it was impossible. Now 58 and feeling more capable than ever, Butterbean discusses his desire for one final fight against names like Jake Paul or Mike Tyson to prove that self-belief can overcome any obstacle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tu Lam recounts a visceral moment as a young Green Beret standing in the blistering Okinawa heat just waiting for his team to acknowledge him. He breaks down the grueling double life of a Special Forces operator who balanced high stakes missions with late night study sessions to outrun a past defined by fire and oppression. This is a raw journey through twenty seven countries and the heavy emotional toll of global combat that eventually led a man born into war to finally seek the meaning of peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Claim your 30-day free trial with Waking Up: https://wakingup.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=3&aff_id=78 In today’s episode, Jordan sits down with Nirmal 'Nimsdai' Purja for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about discipline, sacrifice, and redefining what is possible. From growing up in a humble family in Nepal to becoming a Gurkha and serving in UK Special Forces, Nims shares the mindset forged long before the mountains. The conversation explores Project Possible and the unseen realities behind climbing all fourteen 8000 metre peaks, including the fine line between bravery and recklessness when lives are on the line. Nims opens up about performing under pressure, leading when no one is watching, and the discipline required to survive extreme environments. Beyond mountaineering, this episode dives into leadership, fairness, entrepreneurship, and the personal cost of success. Nims reflects on purpose, integrity, and why true belief matters more than background, talent, or recognition in the pursuit of something greater than yourself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices