Podcast Summary: Jocko Podcast, Episode 492: "The Path Is Hard. Team Dealer Bravo Company 2-6 Infantry. With Ryan Jackson"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Jocko Podcast
• Host/Author: Jocko Willink, DEFCOR Network
• Description: Retired Navy SEAL, Jocko Willink, and Director, Echo Charles discuss discipline and leadership in business, war, relationships, and everyday life.
• Episode: 492: "The Path Is Hard. Team Dealer Bravo Company 2-6 Infantry. With Ryan Jackson."
• Release Date: May 28, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 492 of the Jocko Podcast, Jocko Willink welcomes Echo Charles and introduces his guest, Ryan Jackson, a retired Staff Sergeant from Bravo Company, 2-6 Infantry, part of the esteemed Team Dealer. The episode delves into Ryan's harrowing experiences in Ramadi, Iraq, his struggles post-deployment, and his path to healing through service dogs.

Ryan Jackson’s Early Life and Military Enlistment

Ryan Jackson shares his upbringing, beginning in Dallas, Texas, before moving to Snellville and later Hiawassee, Georgia. Raised primarily by his grandparents after his father left, Ryan's early interests included dirt bikes, hockey, and motocross. Despite his potential in academics, he faced challenges with substance abuse, smoking weed since age 13, and trouble in high school.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Jackson [08:55]: "I had the potential, but I smoked a lot of weed, did some drugs, and I didn't really apply myself."

Ryan's inclination towards the military was evident from a young age, joining the Civil Air Patrol and ROTC. The tragic events of September 11, 2001, catalyzed his decision to enlist in the Army, seeking structure and discipline.

Notable Quote:

Jocko Willink [10:43]: "I was just like, what am I doing? Like, I'm not going to go to college, you know, not gonna do anything. Go in the Army."

Deployment to Iraq and Combat Experiences

After completing basic training and AIT at Fort Benning, Ryan was quickly deployed to Germany and subsequently to Iraq for the invasion of Baghdad in 2003. As a 240 gunner in a Humvee, Ryan witnessed intense combat, including engagements with armored vehicles and insurgent attacks.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Jackson [19:44]: "The invasion was wild. Just blasted our way all out to Baghdad."

His unit, Bravo 26, faced numerous challenges, including frequent IED attacks and sustaining heavy casualties. Ryan recounts the sudden escalation of violence post-capture of key insurgent figures and the mounting losses within his team.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Jackson [30:17]: "We were still brilliantly good at shooting, and then it got wild."

Challenges and Losses

Throughout his deployment, Ryan experienced significant personal losses, including the deaths of fellow soldiers like Staff Sergeant Swanson and Lieutenant Love. These traumatic events led to intense feelings of survivor's guilt and PTSD, which became apparent upon his return.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Jackson [44:57]: "Every one of these. Yep. See, Brett Tribble got killed... Tom Davis lost his leg. And then not even two days later, Lieutenant Love got killed."

The relentless combat and constant threat to his life took a profound toll on Ryan, affecting his mental health and personal relationships.

Reintegration and Struggles Post-Service

Upon returning from deployment, Ryan faced immense difficulties reintegrating into civilian life. Despite a hero's welcome, he grappled with PTSD, substance abuse, and strained relationships. Multiple attempts to maintain steady employment were thwarted by his mental and emotional state.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Jackson [93:46]: "I started looking into stuff. I went to a few programs. Few For PTSD and stuff."

His journey towards healing began with support from organizations like Mighty Oaks and Canines for Warriors, which introduced him to the therapeutic benefits of service dogs.

The Reunion and Healing Through Service Dogs

Driven by personal struggles and witnessing fellow veterans' challenges, Ryan co-organized a reunion for Team Dealer. This gathering became a turning point, leading him to discover the profound impact of service dogs through Canines for Warriors.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Jackson [117:57]: "He can identify my anxiety before I can identify it. He does this thing, which, ironically, hadn't done it this time."

Ryan's service dog, Caliber, became instrumental in managing his PTSD, providing emotional support, and facilitating his reintegration. The bond he shares with Caliber exemplifies the healing power of service animals for veterans.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Jackson [122:49]: "He can identify my anxiety before I can identify it. He does this thing... he jumped in my lap and saved my life."

Conclusion and Support for Veterans

The episode concludes with Jocko and Echo highlighting the importance of organizations like Canines for Warriors in assisting veterans like Ryan. They emphasize the need for veterans to seek help, break the stigma surrounding mental health, and utilize available resources to overcome their struggles.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Jackson [133:02]: "I want to emphasize to veterans out there that need help. Just don't be afraid to ask. And there's plenty of help out there."

Jocko encourages listeners to support veteran-focused organizations and underscores the enduring spirit of soldiers like Ryan Jackson, who continue to strive for healing and purpose post-service.

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience and Sacrifice: Ryan's journey underscores the immense sacrifices made by soldiers in combat and the enduring impact of those experiences on their mental health.
• Healing Through Companionship: The introduction of service dogs can play a crucial role in helping veterans manage PTSD and reintegrate into civilian life.
• Importance of Support Systems: Organizations like Canines for Warriors and Mighty Oaks offer vital support, emphasizing the necessity for veterans to seek help and build strong support networks.
• Community and Brotherhood: Reunions and continued camaraderie among veterans provide essential emotional support and reinforce the bonds formed during service.

Recommended Resources:

• Books Mentioned:
  • Ramadi Declassified by Colonel Tony Dean
  • Love Nick by [Author Name]
  • Jocko Willink’s titles: Extreme Ownership, Dichotomy of Leadership, Leadership Strategy and Tactics, Field Manual, and the Way of the Warrior Kid series.
• Organizations:
  • Canines for Warriors: k9s4warriors.org
  • Mighty Oaks Foundation: mightyoaks.org
  • Americas Mighty Warriors: americasmightywarriors.org
  • Heroes and Horses: heroesandhorses.org
  • Beyond the Brotherhood: beyondthebrotherhood.org

Upcoming Events:

• Ready First Ramadi Reunion: January 16-17, 2026. Veterans from Team Dealer Bravo Company, 2-6 Infantry, will gather to honor their experiences and support each other.

Final Thoughts: Ryan Jackson’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of community and support in overcoming the profound challenges faced by veterans. His journey from the battlefield to healing through service dogs offers invaluable insights into the path of recovery and the enduring bonds formed through shared sacrifice.

Stay Connected:

• Jocko Podcast: jockopodcast.com
• Jocko Willink on Social Media: @jockowillink
• Echo Charles on Social Media: @EchoCharles

Remember: The path is hard, but with discipline, support, and unwavering determination, recovery and a fulfilling life post-service are attainable.