Shawn Ryan Show Episode #156: Chris Fettes - A SEAL Team 6 Sniper’s Worst Nightmare
Host: Shawn Ryan
Guest: Chris Fettes, Former Navy SEAL, SEAL Team 6 Sniper, Founder & CEO of Be Free Ice Cream
Release Date: January 6, 2025
1. Introduction and Background
Shawn Ryan welcomes Chris Fettes to the show, highlighting Chris's distinguished military career as a former Navy SEAL and member of SEAL Team 6 (Naval Special Warfare Development Group). Chris is recognized for his exceptional skills, including a notable 900-yard sniper shot during a hostage rescue mission in Somalia.
Notable Quote:
Shawn Ryan [02:30]:
“Chris Fettes, you're a former Navy SEAL, a member of SEAL Team 6... and most importantly, you are a father to two sons and a husband.”
2. Transition from Military to Civilian Life
Chris discusses the unexpected challenges he faced transitioning to civilian life after nearly three decades in active duty and special operations. He emphasizes the loss of identity and purpose that many veterans experience once they leave the structured and mission-focused environment of the military.
Notable Quote:
Chris Fettes [04:17]:
“One thing that surprised me was how much about myself I did not even know or understand, like, to the core, with my identity as a Special Forces guy, as a SEAL.”
3. Dealing with Trauma and Coping Mechanisms
The conversation delves into the psychological struggles Chris endured, including battling addictions and the pervasive sense of loss of purpose. He shares his journey through rock bottom and the realization that self-validation was crucial for his mental recovery.
Notable Quote:
Chris Fettes [06:19]:
“When you sense that you've lost your purpose of what you were, you can feel those a lot more now because there's not some outlet for it at work anymore.”
4. Military Career Highlights and Operations
Chris recounts intense experiences from his time in SEAL Team 6, including high-stakes operations in Baghdad and Somalia. He describes pivotal missions, the camaraderie among teammates, and the profound impact of losing comrades in combat.
Notable Quote:
Chris Fettes [110:16]:
“One of the most incredible heroes... performing a medevac during a fierce firefight, ultimately saving lives under extreme pressure.”
5. Founding Be Free Ice Cream and Entrepreneurship
After leaving the military, Chris channelled his experiences and desire for personal freedom into founding Be Free Ice Cream. He explains how ice cream became a therapeutic and creative outlet, transforming his life and providing a means to connect with his family.
Notable Quote:
Chris Fettes [293:06]:
“Part of my purpose is to serve. To serve others is part of my purpose as well.”
6. Family and Fatherhood
Chris emphasizes the importance of fatherhood in his life, detailing how his role as a father influenced his decision to leave the SEAL teams. He shares heartfelt moments about reconnecting with his sons and ensuring he provides them with the validation and presence he lacked during his military career.
Notable Quote:
Chris Fettes [157:12]:
“And my sons are gonna look at your career eventually, if they haven't already, and they're gonna probably want to do something like that to impress you.”
7. Reflections on War, Trauma, and Society
The discussion shifts to broader reflections on the nature of modern warfare, the ethical dilemmas faced by soldiers, and the societal pressures that influence military operations. Chris critiques the evolving Rules of Engagement (ROE) and their impact on combat effectiveness and veteran well-being.
Notable Quote:
Chris Fettes [180:21]:
“War is not a game. So if you commit to it, let's just finish the job as quickly as possible to minimize death on both sides for an extended amount of time in the future.”
8. Advice and Insights
Chris offers valuable advice to veterans transitioning to civilian life, stressing the importance of self-validation, finding purpose, and seeking support. He encourages fellow veterans to pursue passions and reinvent themselves beyond their military identities.
Notable Quote:
Chris Fettes [03:54]:
“Do the skill set. You got to do what's available to you and you got to have a job, you know, you gotta work that. Start making moves towards the thing that you're passionate about.”
9. Overcoming Personal Struggles
Chris opens up about his personal battles with depression and trauma, detailing how pivotal moments and support from loved ones helped him heal. He shares his journey of self-discovery through meditation, plant medicine, and confronting his past.
Notable Quote:
Chris Fettes [251:00]:
“Understanding and misunderstanding is at a max right now. If people change their minds to the good side, the right thing to do is not go, 'I told you so,' but welcome them to the good side.”
10. Legacy and Moving Forward
Concluding the episode, Chris reflects on his legacy, the importance of forgiveness, and maintaining strong family bonds. He highlights his ongoing mission to inspire and support others through his business and personal experiences.
Notable Quote:
Chris Fettes [323:32]:
“Understanding and maintaining strong family bonds is crucial. It's about love and forgiveness, ensuring that my sons know they are valued and loved unconditionally.”
Summary: In this emotionally charged episode, Shawn Ryan converses with Chris Fettes about his formidable journey from being a Navy SEAL and SEAL Team 6 sniper to overcoming personal trauma and founding a successful ice cream business. Chris candidly discusses the struggles of transitioning to civilian life, battling addiction, and rediscovering his identity and purpose. Emphasizing the significance of fatherhood, he shares how his role as a father motivated him to seek a healthier, more fulfilling life outside the military. Throughout the episode, Chris offers profound insights into the psychological impacts of modern warfare, the importance of self-validation, and the necessity of pursuing passions to achieve personal freedom and happiness. His story serves as an inspiring testament to resilience, the power of support systems, and the pursuit of meaningful endeavors post-military service.
Listen to the full episode to gain deeper insights into Chris Fettes's remarkable journey and the lessons he shares for veterans and non-veterans alike.