Jocko Podcast Episode 476: "Dog Ain't Got Nuthin' For Ya" with Retired SEAL Harold "Dog" Underdown

Release Date: February 5, 2025

In Episode 476 of the Jocko Podcast, host Jocko Willink and director Echo Charles welcome retired Navy SEAL Harold "Dog" Underdown. The conversation delves deep into Dog's illustrious career, his experiences within the SEAL teams, leadership philosophies, and his transition into entrepreneurship and philanthropy. The episode offers rich insights into discipline, resilience, and the application of military principles in business and everyday life.

1. Early Life and SEAL Journey

Harold Underdown begins by recounting his early days in North Carolina, detailing his upbringing in a modest household with supportive parents. His father's versatile skills and his mother's work ethic instilled in him a strong foundation. A pivotal moment in his youth—a reckless decision involving firecrackers and a state trooper—sparked his aspiration to join law enforcement and eventually the military.

Notable Quote:

"That was his way of saying, if you got a problem, suck it up. And if you got a problem, you got to get that problem solved yourself."
[01:22] Harold Underdown

Dog's entry into the Navy SEAL program at the age of 24 marked the beginning of a transformative journey. He shares his experiences from boot camp in Oklahoma, highlighting the challenges of drown-proofing and the mental fortitude required to succeed.

Notable Quote:

"You have to relax in the water and trust yourself with filling up your lungs. Lungs being that buoy for you."
[26:57] Harold Underdown

2. SEAL Team Dynamics and Leadership

Upon joining SEAL Team 1 on the West Coast, Dog describes the rigorous environment and the emphasis on being "silent professionals." He reflects on the tight-knit bonds within the teams and the importance of reputation, both in military operations and in broader life contexts.

Notable Quote:

"Your reputation speaks for itself. So, yeah, you know."
[45:19] Harold Underdown

The conversation touches on the evolution of SEAL teams' public perception, noting how media portrayals have both elevated and misconstrued the true nature of SEAL operations.

3. Deployments and Combat Experience

Dog narrates his deployments to the Philippines, Guam, and later, Afghanistan and Iraq. He details missions such as the aborted operation in Haiti post-earthquake and the intense combat scenarios in Iraq, emphasizing the adaptability and relentless training that SEALs undergo.

Notable Quote:

"It's like these football players that train and train and train and never get to the Super Bowl. But when they step on that Super Bowl field, you don't want them to totally clam up on you."
[72:46] Harold Underdown

In Iraq, Dog discusses operations aimed at countering Iranian influence and securing high-profile targets, underscoring the strategic complexities and human elements involved in special operations.

4. Transition to Leadership and Training Roles

After accumulating extensive field experience, Dog transitioned to leadership roles within the SEAL teams, becoming a Command Master Chief. He shares anecdotes about mentoring younger SEALs, handling disciplinary actions with empathy, and fostering a culture of accountability and support.

Notable Quote:

"If you do something that is like, illegal, immoral, unethical, there's nothing I can do for you. Not going to hear anything for you."
[100:19] Jocko Willink

Dog emphasizes the balance between maintaining strict discipline and providing support to team members facing personal challenges, illustrating effective leadership through real-life examples.

5. Entrepreneurship: Founding Four Branches Bourbon

Upon retiring from the Navy, Dog leveraged his leadership skills to venture into entrepreneurship, co-founding Four Branches Bourbon. He details the brand's inception, including the collaboration with distilleries, the creation of a unique mash bill representing the four military branches, and the meticulous process of crafting a high-quality bourbon.

Notable Quote:

"We want to start sipping to remember."
[170:08] Harold Underdown

The brand's branding strategy incorporates military symbolism subtly, aiming to honor veterans while appealing to a broad consumer base. Dog discusses marketing initiatives, distribution challenges, and the importance of maintaining product quality to stand out in a crowded market.

6. Philanthropy and Community Engagement

Beyond business, Dog is deeply involved in philanthropic efforts. He recounts fundraising events, such as charity bottle auctions supporting various nonprofits and veterans' organizations. These initiatives reflect his commitment to giving back and supporting communities affected by disasters and other hardships.

Notable Quote:

"We need you to do your jobs, you know, before we have to come up and do it for you."
[84:03] Harold Underdown

Dog underscores the significance of supporting first responders, military personnel, and their families, reinforcing the ethos of service and leadership.

7. Closing Thoughts and Leadership Philosophy

In his closing remarks, Dog touches on broader societal issues, emphasizing the need for unity, responsible leadership, and proactive problem-solving. He advocates for individuals taking ownership of their challenges, resonating with the podcast's overarching themes of discipline and leadership.

Notable Quote:

"If you got a problem, you got to get that problem solved yourself."
[204:54] Jocko Willink

Conclusion

Episode 476 of the Jocko Podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of Harold "Dog" Underdown's journey from a determined young man in North Carolina to a seasoned Navy SEAL, and finally, to a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. His experiences epitomize the values of discipline, resilience, and leadership, providing listeners with actionable insights applicable across various life domains.

Key Takeaways:

• Discipline and Accountability: Essential for personal growth and effective leadership.
• Balancing Strictness with Support: Successful leaders maintain discipline while providing support to those in need.
• Application of Military Principles in Business: Leadership, strategic planning, and resilience are transferable skills valuable in entrepreneurship.
• Philanthropy and Community Engagement: Giving back strengthens communities and honors the spirit of service.

The episode serves as an inspiring testament to how military experiences can shape individuals into leaders who positively impact various facets of society.