Podcast Summary: Cleared Hot - Episode 402 with Michael Montoya

Title: Don't Kick Land Mines in Ukraine
Host: Andy Stumpf
Guest: Michael Montoya
Release Date: August 11, 2025

1. Introduction

In Episode 402 of Cleared Hot, host Andy Stumpf welcomes Michael Montoya, a seasoned Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician, to discuss his experiences with landmine clearance in Ukraine. Montoya shares his extensive military background, the challenges of EOD work in active conflict zones, and his ongoing efforts to train and support Ukrainian forces.

2. Michael Montoya’s Military Background

Michael Montoya provides an in-depth look into his journey within the Marine Corps, highlighting the path that led him to become an EOD technician.

[04:43] Michael: "I went into the Marine Corps, became an EOD tech, and have been enjoying it ever since."

Montoya explains the rigorous training and rapid deployment that characterized his early military career, particularly during the Second Battle of Fallujah.

[07:22] Michael: "From graduating EOD school to being in Iraq within like a nine-day period."

3. Deployment Experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan

Montoya recounts his deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, detailing the intense and often dangerous nature of EOD work in these regions.

[08:00] Michael: "Two days into being officially an EOD tech, we went on a call and the front vehicle gets blown up."

He discusses the immediate transition from training to active duty and the continuous cycle of deployments that followed.

4. Transition to Civilian Life and Founding Invictus Global Response

After his military service, Montoya founded Invictus Global Response (IGR) to continue his mission of landmine clearance and training in conflict zones like Ukraine.

[65:48] Michael: "We put together Invictus Global Response after the incident where I blew my foot off."

Montoya emphasizes the importance of building local capacity and providing sustainable support to Ukrainian forces.

5. Current Work in Ukraine: Training and Demining Efforts

Montoya delves into the specifics of IGR’s operations in Ukraine, focusing on training local EOD teams and enhancing their demining capabilities.

[40:52] Michael: "We like to come in and just be like, hey, can we come out and watch? Can we help you do the med stuff?"

He highlights the collaborative approach of IGR, which aims to support existing efforts without imposing external methods.

6. The Rise of Drone Warfare in Ukraine

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the impact of First-Person View (FPV) drones in the conflict, particularly their effectiveness against Russian strategic assets.

[52:12] Michael: "Ukraine's drone pilots are overhauling which Russian targets they think matter most."

Montoya explains how drones have revolutionized modern warfare, allowing for precise strikes with relatively low costs.

[63:06] Michael: "They use drones that cost around $400, and with precision strikes, it's changing the battlefield dynamics."

7. Challenges of Operating in War Zones

Montoya candidly discusses the personal and logistical challenges faced while working in active conflict areas, including safety concerns and maintaining operational efficiency.

[75:13] Michael: "Drones flying directly over the house... you can't see it coming until it's too late."

He also touches on the psychological toll of witnessing constant threats and the importance of having a support system.

8. Funding and Support for Invictus Global Response

The conversation shifts to the financial aspects of running IGR, emphasizing the need for continuous fundraising to sustain their operations.

[68:04] Michael: "Whether it's $5 or $5 million, the effort's still going to keep going."

Montoya outlines the organization's current funding strategies, including donations and grants, and highlights the critical need for financial support to acquire essential equipment like demining machines.

[110:00] Michael: "We missed the window for the machine that would have cost about $21k, but we've now ordered an improved version for $30k."

9. Personal Reflections and Work-Life Balance

Montoya reflects on the balance between his demanding work and personal life, acknowledging the strain but reaffirming his commitment to the mission.

[81:20] Michael: "I need to wake up and go to sleep more times a year next to her in the house with the family than more times away."

He expresses a desire to transition into a leadership role within IGR to better manage operations and spend more time with his family.

10. Future Goals and Expansion Plans

Looking ahead, Montoya shares plans for expanding IGR’s efforts beyond Ukraine, aiming to assist in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and other regions affected by landmines and unexploded ordnance.

[81:24] Michael: "We are global, we will go anywhere and everywhere and we can do anything."

He emphasizes the importance of sustainability and empowering local teams to maintain demining operations independently.

11. How Listeners Can Support

Montoya concludes by encouraging listeners to support IGR through donations, spreading the word, and participating in fundraising events. He provides information on how to contribute and stay updated with their missions.

[105:10] Michael: "If anyone has any information or they know a philanthropist or they want to do a donation event, reach out. I'm game to do anything to keep the mission going."

Notable Quotes

• Michael Montoya at [07:22]: "From graduating EOD school to being in Iraq within like a nine-day period."
• Michael Montoya at [65:48]: "We put together Invictus Global Response after the incident where I blew my foot off."
• Michael Montoya at [40:52]: "We like to come in and just be like, hey, can we come out and watch? Can we help you do the med stuff?"
• Michael Montoya at [63:06]: "They use drones that cost around $400, and with precision strikes, it's changing the battlefield dynamics."
• Michael Montoya at [68:04]: "Whether it's $5 or $5 million, the effort's still going to keep going."
• Michael Montoya at [81:20]: "I need to wake up and go to sleep more times a year next to her in the house with the family than more times away."
• Michael Montoya at [81:24]: "We are global, we will go anywhere and everywhere and we can do anything."

Conclusion

Episode 402 of Cleared Hot offers a compelling insight into the life and mission of Michael Montoya, highlighting the critical role of EOD technicians in conflict zones like Ukraine. Through his dedication and leadership with Invictus Global Response, Montoya not only mitigates the dangers of landmines but also empowers local forces with the training and resources necessary for effective demining operations. Listeners are encouraged to support these humanitarian efforts to ensure safer environments in war-torn regions.

Support Invictus Global Response:
Visit Invictus Global Response to donate and learn more about their mission to prevent landmine fatalities and train local EOD teams in conflict zones worldwide.