Podcast Title: Cleared Hot
Host: Andy Stumpf
Guest: James Hatch - Navy SEAL, Author, Yale Graduate, and Lecturer
Episode: 396
Release Date: July 21, 2025

Introduction to James Hatch’s Journey

In Episode 396 of Cleared Hot, host Andy Stumpf welcomes James Hatch, a decorated Navy SEAL with a multifaceted background as an author, Yale graduate, and lecturer. James shares his extensive military experience, including flying jets, skydiving, mountain climbing, and owning a gym. The episode delves deep into his personal and professional journey, exploring the challenges he faced both on and off the battlefield.

Military Operations and Personal Injuries

The conversation kicks off with James recounting a critical parachute jump incident that drastically changed his life.

• [05:00] James Hatch: "I was unconscious for a week. Broke L1 through 5."

Andy probes into the specifics of the accident, revealing the complexity and danger of Navy parachute operations. James describes how senior teammate Timmy’s quick actions saved his life during the mishap.

• [07:12] James Hatch: "Timmy was the most senior and talented guy. He put his feet in right over my right... and then he slowly feeds... and when the break off's at 500, something went wrong."

The severity of James’s injuries is emphasized, outlining his temporary paralysis and significant brain damage. His time in the hospital is depicted as a transformative period where he relearned basic tasks, highlighting the profound impact of his injuries.

Mental Health Struggles and Rehabilitation

Post-accident, James opens up about his battles with anger, substance abuse, and depression, symptoms often associated with traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

• [15:02] James Hatch: "I felt out of control. My rage was getting worse."

Andy and James discuss the stigma around seeking help within the military culture, where vulnerability is often seen as weakness. James shares his reluctant journey through antidepressants and his eventual reliance on rehabilitation programs to regain his mental stability.

Cultural Reflections and Academic Pursuits

Transitioning from his military career, James recounts his academic pursuits at Yale. He emphasizes the importance of bridge-building between military veterans and academia to foster understanding and support.

• [116:00] James Hatch: "I see that the system needs veterans in academia because of our personal experiences."

James details his role as a lecturer, teaching courses like "The Impact of War on Its Willing and Unwilling Participants." He highlights how sharing his firsthand experiences with students enriches their understanding of war's multifaceted impacts.

• [124:34] James Hatch: "Talking about war from all angles can impact young minds who are future decision-makers."

Reflections on War and Its Aftermath

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the long-term effects of prolonged military engagements, specifically referencing Operation Red Wings and the broader War on Terror.

• [132:42] James Hatch: "We spent 20 years at war, but we didn’t learn much from it."

James expresses skepticism about the efficacy of extended military campaigns, critiquing the lack of comprehensive after-action reviews that could have informed better strategies.

• [137:32] Andy Stumpf: "After 20 years, what was the point?"

He underscores the psychological toll on service members and the enduring impact on their personal lives, relationships, and mental health.

Advocacy and Future Aspirations

James passionately advocates for better mental health support for veterans and emphasizes the importance of integrating their experiences into academic and policy-making spheres. He discusses his involvement with nonprofits like Spikes Canine, which supports working dogs and their handlers.

• [166:04] James Hatch: "Veterans deserve to have their stories heard and to support each other in meaningful ways."

Looking forward, James aspires to continue his academic work, expand his nonprofit efforts, and maintain strong connections with his military comrades. He underscores the importance of education in healing and personal growth, both for himself and for those he teaches.

Conclusion: Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

The episode wraps up with reflections on leadership, the enduring bonds formed in the military, and the importance of honest dialogue in overcoming trauma. James and Andy discuss the legacy of military service and the critical need for continued support systems to help veterans transition to civilian life successfully.

• [170:53] Andy Stumpf: "Life isn't binary. It's an uphill battle mentally."
• [171:03] James Hatch: "We need to create environments where veterans can share and heal without judgment."

James emphasizes that while the military shaped his resilience and leadership, it also left him grappling with deep-seated challenges that he continues to address through education and advocacy.

Notable Quotes

• James Hatch [05:00]:
  "I was unconscious for a week. Broke L1 through 5."

• James Hatch [07:12]:
  "Timmy was the most senior and talented guy. He put his feet in right over my right... and then he slowly feeds... and when the break off's at 500, something went wrong."

• James Hatch [15:02]:
  "I felt out of control. My rage was getting worse."

• James Hatch [116:00]:
  "I see that the system needs veterans in academia because of our personal experiences."

• James Hatch [124:34]:
  "Talking about war from all angles can impact young minds who are future decision-makers."

• James Hatch [132:42]:
  "We spent 20 years at war, but we didn’t learn much from it."

• Andy Stumpf [137:32]:
  "After 20 years, what was the point?"

• James Hatch [166:04]:
  "Veterans deserve to have their stories heard and to support each other in meaningful ways."

• Andy Stumpf [170:53]:
  "Life isn't binary. It's an uphill battle mentally."

• James Hatch [171:03]:
  "We need to create environments where veterans can share and heal without judgment."

Key Takeaways

1. The Harsh Realities of Military Life: James discusses the physical and psychological toll of being a Navy SEAL, highlighting the extreme risks and the long-term impact of injuries sustained in duty.

2. Mental Health Stigma: The episode sheds light on the challenges veterans face in seeking mental health support, emphasizing the need for a cultural shift within military communities.

3. Bridging Military and Civilian Spheres: James’s role at Yale serves as a bridge between the military and academic worlds, fostering mutual understanding and providing valuable insights into the complexities of war and its aftermath.

4. Advocacy for Veterans: Through his nonprofit work and academic endeavors, James advocates for better support systems for veterans, particularly focusing on mental health and reintegration into civilian life.

5. Critique of Prolonged Military Engagements: Both Andy and James express skepticism about the efficacy and strategy behind prolonged military operations, calling for more effective after-action reviews and strategic planning.

6. Importance of Honest Dialogue: The episode underscores the necessity of open and honest conversations about the realities of war, both within military circles and in broader academic and public discussions.

7. Personal Growth and Resilience: Despite the immense challenges, James highlights his journey of recovery and personal growth, demonstrating resilience and the potential for positive transformation through education and support.

Note: The timestamps provided correspond to the significant points in the transcript, ensuring accurate reference to the discussions and quotes mentioned.