Munich Fallout: NATO, Iran, and America’s Credibility Crisis

Summary

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The Team House – Eyes on Geopolitics

Episode: Munich Fallout: NATO, Iran, and America’s Credibility Crisis
Date: February 16, 2026
Hosts & Panelists: Dean "D" Takos, Mark Polylaropoulos, Andy Milburn, Mick Mulroy

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Overview

This episode of Eyes on Geopolitics (The Team House) focuses on the fallout from the 2026 Munich Security Conference and explores America’s credibility in NATO, the brewing crisis with Iran, and the broader implications for US alliances. The hosts, all seasoned national security professionals, provide candid, apolitical insights into dynamics between the US and Europe, Europe's efforts at self-reliance, and the risk of war with Iran. The discussion is sharp, irreverent, and densely packed with expertise on conflict, tradecraft, and geopolitics.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Post-Munich Security Conference: America and NATO

Rubio's Speech & European Reception

• The 2026 Munich Security Conference marked a tonal shift from the prior year’s diplomatic controversies.
• Senator Rubio’s remarks sought a balance—acknowledging the importance of alliances but pressing Europe for greater self-reliance.
  • “It was a balancing act... it didn’t give any of the audience exactly what they wanted to hear. But at least it was a little more placatory than Vance’s speech last year…” — Andy Milburn (05:43)
• Despite the softer tone, substance of US policy remains unchanged from Vance's controversial approach in 2025, leading to lingering European skepticism.

European Security Awakening

• Real momentum for European defense reform began after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, not just in response to US pressure.
  • “No, they started fixing house in 2022. And the message came not from us, it came from the Russians.” — Andy Milburn (15:03)

European Dependence on US Intel and Capabilities

• Europe has advanced military and special operations forces, but still heavily relies on the US for intelligence, ISR, and some strategic capabilities.
  • “Intel...our partners around the world, not just Europe, they rely heavily as you and I did, on the CIA...It’s not just human intelligence...” — Mick Mulroy (17:41)
• Recent US threats to cut off intelligence led Europe to examine paths to intelligence independence, potentially reducing future US leverage.

Special Operations Forces: Quiet European Strength

• UK, Poland, France, and others have potent special operations capabilities — often “punching above their weight” in Ukraine.
  • “The Brits do this very well...they punch way above their weight...and they are heavily embedded in Ukraine.” — Andy Milburn (21:55)

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2. US Credibility and Alliance Politics

Trust Issues & Alliance Fatigue

• Allies increasingly doubt America’s long-term reliability, especially in light of public statements, shifting policies, and political brinkmanship.
  • “...everything that Vice President Vance said that was controversial is codified inside the national security strategy.” — Mick Mulroy (09:14)
• Surface-level diplomacy (e.g., Rubio’s “nicer” speech) does not resolve deeper strategic uncertainties for Europe.
  • “That’s your ex-girlfriend calling you up and saying, hey, I want to get back together tonight. But the next morning, you realize, well, wait a second...” — Mark, on European reaction (12:26)

Ethics and History of Betrayed Partners

• The US has a checkered legacy of promises made and broken to partners (Kurds, Syrian opposition, Afghans), complicating moral authority in the current diplomatic crisis.
• The panel dives into whether the US should or can realistically support regime-change or protest movements in Iran:
  • “To be the leader of the free world, you have to promote freedom and democracy…” — Mick Mulroy (43:19)

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3. Iran Crisis: Diplomacy vs. War

Geneva Nuclear Talks and Military Buildup

• Geneva negotiations between the US and Iran include softening of US positions (more focus on nuclear issues, potential partial enrichment).
  • “I think the US is more inclined to compromise. And to be frank, that’s what negotiations are.” — Mick Mulroy (33:04)
• Israel’s primary concern is Iranian ballistic missiles and proxies—not just the nuclear issue.
  • “...as far as direct threat to US interests, it is Iran’s use of proxies in the region that's even greater arguably than possession of a nuclear weapon.” — Andy Milburn (38:47)

Credibility and Risk of Conflict

• The US military buildup in the Gulf is massive – two carrier groups, air defenses, strategic bombers.
  • “We are absolutely ready to go to war...sustained air operations. We are talking about weeks…” — Andy Milburn (38:47)
• Panelists are pessimistic about diplomatic success and anticipate some form of military showdown with Iran.
  • “I think there will eventually be military confrontation with Iran…that’s why I think some kind of confrontation...is inevitable.” — Andy Milburn (46:32)
  • “Iranians never seem to miss an opportunity to miss an opportunity…” — Mick Mulroy (47:21)

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4. Public Attitudes, Congressional Role & Political Dynamics

• US public and Congressional indifference to overseas conflicts is at a near historical high.
  • “I don’t think the American public gives a shit about what goes on, about what the US Military is doing overseas…” — Andy Milburn (54:51)
• The panel notes the lack of pressure or meaningful oversight from Congress, largely due to the political climate, election cycles, and the atrophy of checks and balances.
• Potential for 2026 midterms to prompt political scrutiny of foreign policy, but little optimism that it would drive substantive change unless “skin in the game” rises dramatically.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On US-EU Relations:
  • “If you take out all the European basing and access...we have big problems projecting force around the world.” — Mick Mulroy (09:14)
• On Iran Diplomacy:
  • “This is either going to go the diplomatic path or probably the military path…” — Mick Mulroy (36:10)
• On Ethics and Broken Promises:
  • “In order to be the leader of the free world, you have to promote freedom and democracy in part of the world that's not free… Second part...be careful what you say.” — Mick Mulroy (43:19)
• On Public & Congressional Indifference:
  • “No one has skin in the game...I don’t think the administration will feel a compulsion to talk directly to the American people. And I don’t think that by and large the American public cares either.” — Andy Milburn (54:51)
• On Future of the Iran Crisis:
  • “Iranians never seem to miss an opportunity to miss an opportunity...” — Mick Mulroy (47:21)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• Munich Recap and US-European Relations: 04:48–16:23
• European Intel and Special Ops Capabilities: 16:23–25:26
• US Credibility and the “Ex-Girlfriend” Analogy: 12:26–15:49
• Iran Nuclear Crisis & Geneva Talks: 32:40–42:40
• Military Buildup and War Readiness in Middle East: 38:47–43:19
• Ethics of US Policy Toward Iranian Protesters: 42:40–46:17
• Panel Predictions—War or Diplomacy?: 46:17–51:32
• US Public/Congressional Attitude Toward War: 54:04–58:28

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Conclusion & Tone

This episode is a fast-paced, sometimes irreverent but profoundly knowledgeable dive into current national security and geopolitical dynamics. The Team House crew confronts American credibility, European defense calculus, and the looming specter of war with Iran. Their consensus is deeply skeptical about diplomatic prospects, concerned for America’s reliability as an ally, and aware of mounting public apathy toward foreign policy despite the stakes.

The tone is frank, world-weary, and bluntly realistic—informed by decades in the intelligence and military trenches.

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Further Reading / Links Mentioned

• [When the Tempest Gathers by Andy Milburn]
• [Clarity in Crisis by Mark Polylaropoulos]
• [Whitefish (Montana) Security Summit]
• Team House Patreon: patreon.com/theteamhouse

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Transcript

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[Dean]

Hey what's up guys? This is D. Do us a favor and check out our patreon page. It's patreon.com theteamhouse you get both Teamhouse episodes and Eyes on Geopolitics episodes completely ad free. You get them early too. You can ask us questions. You can also watch the team ass episodes live as we shoot them. So and you help support the show and support what we're doing here. It's patreon.com theteamhouse those links are in the description or if you're listening, it's in the show notes down below so you can click it real quick and easy and it helps us keep the lights on. So we appreciate it and we appreciate you guys listening. Thanks a bunch of everybody. Welcome to another episode of Eyes on Geopolitics. I'm here today with Andy Milburn, Mark, Polly Laropoulos and Mick Mulroy. Some housekeeping. Mark is going to be joining us regularly now he's going to be taking over my role as like host slash moderator because like I never wanted to do it and I just did it because the team needed it. So what I got, yeah, I'm replacing myself in terms of hosts. I'm still going to be here and rule with an iron fist. Don't get it twisted, but.

[Mark]

With another.

[Dean]

Greek and thank God not Another Marine.

[Mark]

Yeah.

So, Mark, so I can see we got the Greeks in the left and the Marines in the right. Is that where we're going with this then?

[Andy Milburn]

The Agency at the bottom?

[Dean]

Yeah.

[Mark]

Too many Greeks around.

[Dean]

Yeah, well, it's. It's another. Yeah, be careful, be careful. It's another CIA guy, which, you know, I mean, that's what I was. My order from the Agency to get another CIA guy on so we can continue the CIA propaganda here. But. No, no, no, it's. I don't know if Mark is exactly on the CIA Christmas card list or anything like that anymore.

[Andy Milburn]

Yeah, he's gonna be higher on the list than that guy you had on, who is now in. In the big house. Right?

[Dean]

Yeah. Dale Bendler.

[Mark]

Yeah.

[Dean]

Yes, thank you, Andy, for reminding us.

[Andy Milburn]

Always quiet. When I pointed that out, I named him.

[Dean]

Listen, I can't be Perfect. We've had 400 episodes of the Team House. We're gonna have a couple of.

[Andy Milburn]

You've only had a handful of pedophiles and traders.

[Dean]

We've had one pedo and one traitor. That we know of.

[Mark]

True.

[Dean]

That we know of.

[Mark]

Right.

[Dean]

We could take a look at the Epstein list. All right, Mark, take it away.

[Mark]

D. Thank you very much, Andy and Mick, it's an honor to be amongst both of you. You guys are, of course, both my friends. I've known you both for a while. Andy, you and I were on a kind of little bit of a mini jihad on a separate issue in terms of Gaza war crimes, and I'm proud to have supported you on that. Did you ever do the War on the Rocks episode, by the way?

[Andy Milburn]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I did a podcast that's coming out this week.

[Mark]

Good.

[Andy Milburn]

Look forward to that, Ryan. And written a follow up article that, by the way, totally debunks all this ridiculous BS that those two particular guys are bringing up.

[Mark]

And Mick, always an honor to be with you. Of course. We have a long and assorted history together, from the mountains of northern Iraq to the plains of Paktika Province in eastern Afghanistan. And Mick, your claim to fame is you were one of the two former ground branches officers who gave me a really terrible nickname in Iraq, if you remember the Fighting Lamb chop, which when I'd walk down the halls of CIA, when I'd see one of you all from your tribe, when they would scream that out, I would, like duck into a corner in shame.

[Dean]

But why?

[Mark]

It was about the stash.

It's a good. I know, it's good. I had some good, good, good chops going on but let's, let's just kick off on here and just, you know, first and foremost. Again, great to be with you guys. I think I've been on the team house about a million times, so it's fun to be back and especially on Izon too. But I think the biggest kind of the story we should start with is the Munich security conference wrapping up today, in fact, and after last year's kind of debacle where Vice President Vance basically insulted everybody on the planet. If you're in Europe, or everyone in Europe, certainly. I think Secretary Rubio and his speech was certainly something that people were looking forward to, to see if there was perhaps a softer tone. And I have my thoughts on this. I have a very good analogy. I want to going to save that till after I get both Andy and Mick's views on that. So, Andy, what are your thoughts on Munich? A good place here. And what did Rubio accomplish or what did he not?

[Andy Milburn]

Yeah. So I'm going to keep my comments brief, which will please much of the audience, so that I can defer to you two who going to be able to speak far more profoundly on this topic. But I would say this. Yes. You know, Vance's comments last year, I think were like nails on a chalkboard for most of us who have had anything to do even at the pointy end of the spirit of foreign policy and understand a little bit of history. And I think, you know, I think this was, honestly, I thought this was Rubio trying to draw, trying to walk the line between what in his heart of hearts, not inside Rubio's heart, but in his heart of hearts he realizes is important. But the fact that the United States depends on partnerships and alliances and that we represent something in Europe, something that, as Rubio points out himself, he grew up with security, stability, all of these things. But at the same time, there was that pointed message that Europe needs to step up to the plate to take charge of its own security, which I don't think anyone in this group would argue with. So it was a balancing act. It didn't like most balancing acts. It didn't give any of the audience exactly what they wanted to hear. But at least it was a little more placatory than Vance's speech last year and didn't leave the United States looking quite such an outlier.

[Mark]

Nick, your thoughts?

Yeah. Well, first I'll start with a shameless plug. So we have, we're starting the Whitefish Security Summit this year in April. Hopefully all you guys will be coming out eventually, if not where's the invite? This is, it was called the Montana Intelligence Summit and now Lobo is partner to the group. So it's now the Whitefish Security Summit. It's going to be, we hope, similar to the. Or, I don't want to be too cocky here, but similar to the Munich, but really heavily intel and special operations. So like this year, General Stan McChrystal is one of the headliners and a bunch of former senior CIA folks. But it's annual, right. So we hope to have eyes on and the whole crew out here, open invitation obviously for that. But again, it's gonna, it's gonna be broad foreign policy, national security topics, but it's always going to keep its kind of core uniqueness, which is special operations and CIA type spin. So specific to the actual Munich Conference. Agree with Andy. The issue, I think if I was Europeans, is everything that Vice President Vance said that was controversial is codified inside the national security strategy. So even with Rubio's, I think, moderated tone, which I do believe is more in line with his actual philosophy, I think he's more of a traditional Republican on the foreign policy stage. But even with that, even with his comments that were more conciliatory and more positive toward Europe and our tied heritage and everything like that, if I was a European leader, I'd still look at the strategy. It didn't change the actual plan for the US Going forward. It just was a better way to present some of it. And we saw a lot of comments from the Chancellor of Germany, Merson, that really question U.S. leadership going forward. And I think we saw that from several countries. Obviously some European countries like Denmark are super upset about the whole Greenland thing, not to go down that road. But there's a lot of resentment in Europe right Now toward the U.S. it was probably, and I'm not saying a lot of it isn't earned. I mean, I agree with Andy. They kind of didn't take their security serious. They thought, okay, we have the big brother, that is the United States, so we can spend on social programs. Right? That shouldn't have been the case. But now I think primarily because Russia invaded Ukraine, Europe is taking its security serious. And my last points on that part, we need Europe, we need our basing in Europe. It's actually super beneficial to the United States. If not, we have big problems projecting force around the world. If you take out all the European basing and access and the fact that we have pre stage forces there. Also Europe, even though it's, you know, as I just said, not Taking its security serious is now. It's going to be the partner that we always wanted. Right. It's in the future. So that's even more of a reason. In addition to long standing ties and being the pinnacle of our security structure since the end of World War II, they're going to be even more on par with what we wanted soon. Right? These countries are spending a lot more on their own security and eventually they will be the partners that we always wanted. And we don't want to rupture the relationship at a time when that's going to happen. It would make no sense for the US we'd actually have to spend way more our national security if we didn't have the strong partners and allies that I think we've always had in Europe. And yes, they might have neglected some of their own defense, but let's not forget that they did go to war with us for 20 years after Article 5 was triggered after September 11th. So they are the partners, I think, philosophically, and they're going to be the partners that we want, practically in the sense that I think they're taking their security very serious right now. And also remember, Ukraine is still fighting Russia. Russia's only taken 20% of their territory and they've basically fought them to a draw. Right? That's one country in Europe, not NATO, but one country in Europe who's probably now the most effective fighting force in Europe right now. And I think the lessons learned need to be brought into the rest of NATO. We just heard about this NATO exercise where the Ukrainians essentially wipe the floor with NATO. Right? That needs to be incorporated into European NATO and that needs to be a benefit to the United States. So anyway, I'm getting on a diatribe here, but these are all the things that I'm sure were discussed on the sidelines of NATO and hopefully the US Delegation understands this.

So, you know, one of the things that I think I always try to find kind of an interesting analogy that kind of the layperson can use. So I'm going to throw this out here. I'm going to use it later on in some TV hits. And so, Mick, I want to see if you do as well. We can kind of compare this. This to me is like, and this is not reflective of my current relationship. I'm happily married. So let's go back to college. When you get a middle of the night drunk text from your ex girlfriend saying, hey, I want to come over and it's all giddy and you have a great time, but then you Wake up the next morning and you realize, what the hell did I just do? The Europeans kind of embrace of this. The standing ovation, I thought was a little preposterous because, you know, this is the whole idea of signal versus noise. So Rubio had a nicer speech. Well, great. That's your ex girlfriend calling you up and saying, hey, I want to get back together tonight. But the next morning when you realize, well, wait a second, my ex girlfriend is really maybe not a nice person. And I think that's what's happening right now. I talked to some European officials who were actually leaving Munich right now, and they said, look, we're trying to kind of understand what happened here, but I think that some of that initial. Oh, my God, the big relief, I think, at the head of the Munich Security Conference said, this is a sigh of relief. I found that to be proportional preposterous because you're not talking about actual facts on the ground. And if you take. So Rubio's tone was nicer. Got it. Vance was a total jerk last year. But if you look at actually what was said, the substance of it was not all that different. And there's a couple pieces of this, too, which I still think are a bit weird and insulting. I mean, you know, this whole idea that Rubio talks about. The State Department tweeted this out about let's, you know, we have to celebrate our old heritage. I mean, you know, that's like a dog whistle for some weird shit in terms of kind of white nationalism, the notion of the US now supporting think tanks in Europe that kind of promote the far right. I mean, look where Rubio then jetted off to Slovakia, and then he's going to Hungary. The two European countries that actually are not for unity on Ukraine, for example. And so, you know, I'm looking at you guys. You didn't like my analogy about the girlfriend thing. The middle of the night text. I didn't like that.

[Dean]

I thought it was great.

[Mark]

Okay. He likes it. Good.

I've been. I've been married for 32 years, man. I don't even. I mean, don't you get high school.

With my college by someone, like, middle of the night. And you went back to them. You realized the next morning was stupid. It was.

Yeah, I understand the concept.

D. That happened to you last night.

They just had a concept.

[Dean]

No comment. No comment.

[Mark]

One friend and one wife.

[Andy Milburn]

Kind of abused spouse syndrome.

[Mark]

Okay. That was the other one, Andy.

[Andy Milburn]

It was. You know, thank God we're not going to listen to another brow beating session. And by the way, I absolutely agree with all you guys. And I think we should probably get someone who's really obtuse on this show so that we have more argument. You know, I'd like to point out, too, because I'm hearing, you know, there's this undercurrent of, Yep, we, we told them and now they're really fixing house. No, they started fixing house in 2022. And the message came not from us, it came from the Russians. That is when Sweden and Finland, I mean, that is when Finland decided to join NATO. That is when Poland made the decision to up their defense spending.

[Mark]

Yeah, they did.

[Andy Milburn]

And is already one of the leading countries in Europe as far as military strength. And if you look at the rhetoric coming from France, too, and Germany, it all started there in early 2022. Yes, the US may have thrown cold water on any lingering belief that the United States was behind it all on the side of freedom and all of this, but that wake up call was already under effect thanks to Putin.

[Mark]

Mick, let me ask you a quick question about our old world, the intel world. And then Andy, too, we can, we'll get onto another topic right after this, but one last piece, because it has to do with European Agency, and that's the notion of how much can Europe actually go it alone. I mean, one of the things that kind of struck me is that there's still this notion of dependency. But the dependency, if you think about it, is probably in the intelligence sphere and things like big items such as satellite isr, things in which perhaps Europe can't deliver to Ukraine as much as we can. But how much of that is actually true? I don't know the answer to this, but with the amount that Europe is actually providing to Ukraine now, I mean, the fact that they're not at the negotiating table is preposterous. And why the US Is even leading doesn't even make any sense since we're not giving them any. We're selling weapons to NATO under the Pearl program to get to Ukraine. We're not giving Ukrainians anything. But let Mick, just start with you quickly on the intel side, how much independence can Europe actually seek to get? Which would. Because in some ways I think maybe the solution to all of this is actually Trump gets bored, the US Goes home, and then Europe actually does fully take over. Because then you'd have a much more kind of equitable idea of your support for Ukraine as being critical to Europe.

Yeah. So I mean, intel, like all the security, our partners around the world, not just in Europe Right. They rely happen somewhere, as you and I did, knows this.

Right.

Because basically they teach a lot of their chiefs basically how to get information from the CIA station chief. Right. And it's not just human intelligence. It's, you know, the functioning role of dni, Right. Representative. So it's going to take a long time to replace that. But I believe from talking to several friends, both in Canada, it's just 40 minutes that way. And then in Europe and then even in the Far east, they're planning to do so. They're planning to do so because we've already had a few circumstances where the US has threatened to cut off or have actually has cut off intelligence. And that shot a shot across the bow that, you know, I mean, if you put yourself, any of us in their shoes, would you ever want to be in that position again? Right. So it's, again, I think it's going to create a more independent ally and partner group for the United States. But how we do it matters, and we're going to have a lot less leverage in the future for what we would like to see, which sometimes it needs cajoling with our allies and partners to go along with when they become completely independent. And they did it in this manner, you know what I mean by force, by threatening to cut off intel during a war, for example, on Ukraine. So I think that's going to be a pretty substantial issue going forward. I do think all these countries are looking at it, but it's not just intel. What else did the Europeans rely heavily on? Well, Europe does have nuclear weapons, but they don't have anything near what the U.S. have, like 500 compared to thousands in the U.S. so there's already countries, especially the Nordic countries and the countries that don't have them, they're talking about acquiring nuclear weapons. And now that we've jumped out of this, the New START Treaty essentially didn't renew it or extend it. That sends a message. Right. It doesn't mean that every European country can end up with a nuclear weapon, but it certainly says that we are not, you know, entirely interested in stemming the potential for a nuclear arms race. Right. And I don't know that we're even negotiating on a new one, although that was the issue, you know, including China and such. I know that's not. I view these a lot together. So intel is an issue for the Europeans, all of their security is, and I think they're going to relook at it again. If we did this right, we come up with, we come out with stronger partners like we would be going to our, you know, fellow chiefs of, you know, the intel services and getting information, more information from them. Right. But you know, one of the big issues, of course you just said, and that is a lot of our intel is up there. Right. So, and that is expensive. So they have to be ready to, you know, start spending a lot more on their national security and defense, which might mean less, you know, available for their own social programs. But that's a decision they have to make. But it seems like they're being forced to make it right now.

Andy, on the special operations side, one of the things I was just in London for a couple of days and I, you know, I actually made it to the venerable special forces there, which is kind of cool place. And one of the things that, you know, when you talk to European national security folks kind of on, you know, in the background, they're very helpful, especially the Brits to say anything is the role, for example of the British Special operations community and SAS and others in Ukraine who I think have done incredible work. I think they actually were probably more forward leaning than the American side just based on the limits that the US placed on our folks. But talk a little bit about the special operations capability of European governments because I think that's something that we don't hear a lot about. I guess no one writes books on it, but I think it's pretty, pretty significant and could play a factor in the future as well. I mean, think about the Poles, the Estonians. There's some badasses in these countries who've done some really crazy shit. Everything I hear on this, I can't confirm any of this, but I think they're out there. So what's your view on their countries kind of capabilities now and then going forward if the US is going to take a step back?

[Andy Milburn]

Yeah, that's a great question. I think. I will not think, but here are the facts that the UK definitely has been more involved in Ukraine than the us. On the special operations side, they have deployed continuously a SAS squadron to Ukraine since late 2022. What exactly those guys are doing of course isn't open source information. But you know, there's a good deal of training but there's also assistance with tactical intelligence collection drones, you know, precision strike at the tactical level as well as a conduit of intelligence collection from ground up, which is intelligence dissemination, rapid dissemination. Collection dissemination has been a problem in Ukraine. And so the SASRT probably remember I'm speculating here, enabling that to your wider question. You know, we always pride ourselves on having the most capable special operations forces in the world. And of course we do, blah, blah, blah. But it is a massive enterprise, right? You know, there's like 70,000 people in SOCOM. It's not particularly cost effective. The Brits do this very well and they do it by with a kind of a different view of special operations. So what they call special operations, or rather special forces, and let's not get into this whole Green Beret about what special forces are because they have a different. In the uk, Special Forces, Special operations are used interchangeably. And so you've got a very, you know, you've got, essentially you've got the. What's it called? The sr. I'm going to get carved up for forgetting the acronym here. But there are, you know, they, they're the unit that they turned one Para into. It's SS srrg. It's, it's Reconnaissance Group. You've got them and then you've got the SAS and sbs and that's essentially it, right? And so there you've got obviously an exquisite, very potent ability. This isn't all about door kicking anymore, as you guys know. It's mostly about special reconnaissance and that combination. The SASSPs and the SRRG or SSRG are they willed. You know, they punch way above their weight in doing that. But that's again, that's quite a small force. But what the Brits do, well, as far as the conventional force is better than us. They have institutionalized the ability to work by, with and through other forces. So foreign internal defense is considered one of the mission essential tasks of any, of any battalion. And the Brits also have formed a Ranger regiment whose specific purpose is focusing on military assistance, which is training foreign militaries. So in their aggregate, still fewer numbers than socom, even when you add all of these assets together, far fewer, but a significant capability. And, and they are heavily embedded in Ukraine. I would say the Brits are foremost, you know.

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[Andy Milburn]

I think that's, that's indisputable in Europe as far as wielding that capability. And they understand they, they also have a couple advantages on their side. They're not quite. There was no church commission in the uk, right. So they don't always have to declare what the SAS is doing. And the chain of command goes very directly from the Director of Special Forces up to cabinet level. So you've got not just a really exquisite tool, but one that can be used without a lot of deliberation and frankly not a huge amount of accountability, which is pros and cons, right? Now, you mentioned the polls and we know, thanks to Sean Naylor and our own Jack, that the polls have been up to good inside Russia itself, or at least that's what the evidence indicates, that the polls are doing a lot of things that are pretty active against the Russians and have been doing that for years. And so, yeah, the Polish Special Forces, the GROM et al, are not particularly big, but they have significant experience, regional experience. They know how to operate effectively in Russian territory itself. They've proven that. And that's something that we in the US don't have either. So round off my answer to your question. And the French too are very capable. You know, it's all Tier one, but they have very capable Special Operation Force to their use in support of the Ukraine conflict. Unknown, but bottom line, yeah, Europe fields a really capable Special operations capability. You know, I just like to add to what you guys said to the, you know, why does Europe need The United States and they have indeed been strength bolstering that capabilities since 2022. They probably, you know, and I, I would say they rely on us still for isr, right? At the strategic level, no one has the same long range strike and, and air superiority as, as the U.S. although Europe's trying to get there with the Euro fighter, you know, in the Gripen air defense and, and sead. Although the Norwegians and Germans have pretty advanced system, they still lean on U.S. technologies and architectures in NATO. Now, whether they need to do that for much longer, I doubt. And then you have joint command and control, right? If NATO goes to war, Europe has so many multiple collaboration communication frameworks, but lacks a fully integrated kind of battle management C2, joint C2 comparable to us. So that's where they're going to rely on us. The last thing I'll say though is some areas like industrial defense capacity for things that are really required in the Ukraine war. Europe is ahead of us creating manufacturing of drones, expendable drones, 155 munitions, because they don't have such laborious acquisition process and because their industry is already tuned to turning out these things.

[Mark]

So let me just kind of close this segment on the Munich Security Conference, I think with notion. I think everyone here would agree that, you know, national security is a team sport and you know, we need our European allies, they need us. But I still think it remains to be seen the level of US commitment to the alliance. And one other kind of final point is, you know, Rubio goes and he makes nice softer tone. All of this can be blown up in one truth post, ex post, whatever it is by Trump if he wants to invade Greenland or say something insulting to NATO partners. So the other part has to do with the reliability issue. So everyone's going to kind of maybe be a little happier right now leaving Munich, but I'm certainly not sure if it's sustainable. Mick, let me just turn to you with the kind of the second subject for today's podcast, which is the Tuesday talks in Geneva. Hey, by the way, maybe we can have some peace talks in Whitefish one day. If you crush this security conference you're going to hold in the summer, we can have a Whitefish summit. But right now it's the Geneva summit and so it's Iran on the table. Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, the US envoys for everything under the sun, including when the next super bowl is going to be played, it's my own stupid quip, are going to be there and kind of the Big question, I think, and perhaps, Mick, you're in a perfect position to ask, is not in the sense of what is going to happen a month from now. We don't really know. But what do you think the Iranian negotiating position is going to be? Because all eyes are really, in my view, at least, to see if the Iranians are going to give even just a little bit, just enough to have these negotiations continue. There are some indications that the US has kind of softened some of the positions on the zero enrichment of uranium. It's caused a bit of a stink in the national security world because, you know, Trump at one point said, no, no enrichments allowed. But I think that might be on the table. Do you think the Iranians are going to come with anything that would be required to actually have negotiations continue? And then we'll get onto the last. The next piece, which is actually critical in terms of the US Military buildup. But first and foremost, the Iranian position, in your view, Mick, I mean, this is what you did in the past at dod, not only at the agency, but Iran was front and center on your portfolio when you were kind of running the Middle east shop. You're muted. There we go.

Can you hear me?

Yeah, gotcha.

All right. I didn't do anything. But yes, you're right, Mark. So we elected to pull out of the jcpoa. When I was there, dod, by the way, was more inclined to stay in and then address issues like proxy force, support, ballistic missile program separately. Maybe there is still an element in there talking about that, and maybe that's one of the reasons why it does appear the US has softened a bit. Remember, Secretary Rubio was like, has to include no enrichment, nuclear, proxy force, support, ballistic missile capacity and human rights is where he started before the negotiation started. I think we're now at least pretty close on. At least we're focusing more on nuclear. And I think that's one of the issues why Prime Minister Netanyahu got on a plane and came early. Right? Came early and stood right next to the Oval Office door until he was let in is Israel, of course, doesn't want to see an agreement between the United States and in Iran that that is anything less than very, very stringent, that addresses, I think, all of the above. I think the US Is more inclined to compromise. And to be frank, that's what negotiations are. If you can't compromise, then chances of successful negotiation are very slim. So I think both the US and obviously Iran should be willing to do that, and we'll get into the significant force buildup. But all this is happening as another aircraft carrier strike group, the USS Gerald Ford, is en route to the region. Huge capacity added to another huge capacity. And then we'll get into the details just how much they have looking down the barrel, so to speak, literally at them when it comes to these negotiations. I think politically, the issue is going to be it has to be more stringent than the original jcpoa. Right. If he gets back into the same agreement, he being the President of the United States, will be like, well, what was that all about? Right. You know, and that's a fair criticism if that's the case. So he has to get it more stringent. I imagine there's going to be more of a testing and validation program that we know exactly what they're doing and not doing. I think the US Is still going to go in with a zero enrichment, potentially throw on the table, bring in enriched uranium for civilian purposes done somewhere else. Right. If it's truly about using enriched uranium for medical purposes, then it's about the actual medical purpose, not necessarily your ability to produce it yourself. So I think there's a lot of room there. And of course, they're going to want to see the uranium that's been enriched to 60%, not needed at all for civilian purposes removed from the country and maybe brought to Russia or Turkey. That's been on the table in the past, but I do think lots riding on it. I don't think we have a date yet, but it's this week in Geneva. Hopefully, you know, Mr. Witkoff and Mr. Kushner, bring in some of these real experts. Potentially going back to the original discussions, this is a credibly complex, incredibly technically detailed set of negotiations. And if you don't have that expertise and listen to them, of course, you might not end up with the agreement you think you're getting. Right. So being on Team usa, I think it's important that that happens and that we get the smartest people, at least maybe not at the table, but behind the people at the table. Either way is good and see if we can't solve this diplomatically, because this is, in my opinion, heading toward a military confrontation if it's not decided that way. I just don't think the US Would send this level of military power to the region, lose at the negotiations, and just turn them around and send them home. I don't see that happening. So this is either going to go the diplomatic path or probably the military path that we can get.

Andy. Let me. Let me. I'm going to Ask you in one second about the military buildup and what it means and if we have enough forces there. But there's one thing I just want to kind of throw out there, too, for both of you. All of us here have been involved in promises made and promises broken to our allies. You know, Mick, you and I were up with the Kurds. I remember having discussions with our Kurdish partners. And of course, at one point, one of them. And you know who it is, I won't say his name, but he reminded me that, you know, the Kurds have been lied to and betrayed by just about everybody, and they fully expected us to do it again, and we did. Same thing with the Syrian opposition, with Obama's red line, you know, Afghan or Afghan partners in Afghanistan, we can go on and on. And I raised this because of President Trump's several weeks ago, saying, quote, help was on the way. Iranian protesters stay out on the streets. And so one of the things, and this is not saying I advocate for a military option or operation, but if there was a diplomatic solution, which would include even if you could call it a good deal, the regime stays in place. And can we not understand that we've then betrayed the Iranian protesters who are out in the streets? That rubs me wrong. Is it enough to go to war with Iran? I don't know, but there's just a part of that. I just want to kind of throw that out there. And both of you, in a second, when I turn it back to you both, you can comment on that kind of ethics and morality of it. But. But, Andy, do kind of jump in in terms of the force structure, because I think when Trump made those statements several weeks ago, we didn't have the right forces in place. But I guess the question is, do we have the right forces in place now? And comment on the notion that was that, of course, an anonymous U.S. official said the other day is that the military campaign might take weeks, I guess. Is that sustainable? Do the American people support this? I mean, it seems like we're so obsessed, but rightfully so, with things like the Epstein files and Minnesota and ice, we're heading down to potentially a major war in the Middle east like that we haven't seen for some time. Andy, take it away.

[Andy Milburn]

Yeah. So, you know, first of all, I just want to follow up on something Mick said, that these talks are, in order for them to be successful, they have to be. They have to go into a great deal of detail. I mean, even if they were just exclusively focused on Iran's nuclear capability, the monitoring of that and linked to sanctions relief, some kind of progressive plan for sanctions relief that lifts sanctions once actions are verified on the Iranian side. I mean, that itself is very complex. I think all of us here, if I can speak for you guys, would like to see, you know, the big problem with the jigpoa. One of the problems was that it did not address proxies at all. And it looks as though maybe we're going down that path now. Right. But all of us know that, that as far as direct threat to US interests, it is Iran's use of proxies in the region that's even greater arguably than possession of a nuclear weapon. I know I'll be challenged on that, but the proxies have given us a headache for, you know, since the 80s. And, and so, you know, most people would say, why would we walk away? We've got everything in the region. And to your point about are we ready to go to war? We are absolutely ready to go to war. When you look at the order of battle there in the Middle east, it's got everything for sustained air operations. I mean, sustained air operations. We are talking about weeks, both land based and, and carrier based aircraft. We have a significant, obviously non kinetic capability out there too, which, you know, EW in particular, which we would use regardless in any sort of campaign. And I'm sure that there are cyber options lined up too. And most importantly, we've sent air defense batteries and we've almost emptied, when you look at our inventory and you look what are our commitments are elsewhere, places like Korea, we have pretty much emptied our inventory of air defense batteries and sent them all to the Middle east, which has been a double edged sword because that in particular, I think is what has caused the Israelis to change their mind. You remember in early January when the president was saying, we're coming to your rescue, remember Netanyahu actually said, hey, revolutions are best carried out internally. Right. They, the Israelis were cautious. They were concerned about the prospect of regional war. Now when they've seen that, I'm only guessing that the number of assets that are stacked up in the region, especially air defense, which they care about very much, their tune has changed. So yes, in answer to your question, we are absolutely prepared. And there is, there is two. I mean, no one can really answer everyone's question about are we going to go to war. But even our allies in the region have pointed out that, yeah, there's kind of a credibility factor here too. In other words, we need to raise the bar on these talks and include things other than Nuclear agreement, aside from proxies. We need to talk about ballistic missile threats. Right.

[Mark]

That's what Israelis care about the most, in fact.

[Andy Milburn]

Yeah, absolutely. And so that needs to be on the table. We have the force to back it. I don't want to mean to sound like a hawk. I think there are many downsides to a regional conflict. But there is a point up here about credibility. Rhetoric matching what we intend to do and what we intend to do can be quite rational and reasonable if we want it to be. But we do have to address those two additional threats other than nuclear potential nuclear capability.

[Mark]

You know, Mick, you were. And I. And I say this honestly. You're a better man than me in terms of your ethics and morals as a CIA officer. I mean, you are one of the most moral and ethical people I've ever met in our place, Mark.

[Andy Milburn]

Clearly that's true. When? Now. We've heard about your college years.

[Mark]

Yes, I know. But I do want to get that notion of kind of betrayal and ethics and morality of making a promise like Trump did. I mean, that promise was so front and center, and the Iranian people responded. What are your thoughts on that? Even if it's a really good deal, but the regime stays in power. How does that sit with you? Because that bugs me.

I can see why it bugs you. In order to be the leader of the free world, you have to promote freedom and democracy in part of the world that's not free. It's not just criticizing Europe. You're actually supposed to promote democracy over autocracy. And that is what the president was essentially doing when he was talking about supporting the protests. Help is on the way. So the second part of promoting being the leader of the free world is be careful what you say. Right. So walk softly and carry a big stick. We obviously have the stick, but people really pay attention to what the US Says because we have the most dominant military in the world, and we have traditionally, historically been the leader of individual liberties and democracy, which is what I believe the protests are primarily about. I mean, there's a lot of reasons for the protests in Iran. Yes, I get it. It's economic. But there's a lot of groups that have been promoting women's rights and the rights of ethnic minorities and go down the list. Will the US Be portraying that? Potentially, yes. But if we would have taken out the, you know, those comments, I still think we should support the protests, but we're not going to go in militarily and do a regime change. That US has learned our lesson. Iran would be I don't know, 10, 20 times more difficult than Iraq, for example, therefore, 20 times more cost prohibitive and we'd lose thousands of people. So I just don't think the US Is willing to do that. And I just. Regime change from the air is almost an impossibility. Right. And then, of course, the question is, even if you said, well, I'll just drop a bomb on, you know, the ayatollah, well, I mean, that doesn't mean that who replaced them isn't just going to be worse. Right. So I think there's a. I think we should have a very practical view of it, but be careful what we say. And I do think we should support the protesters, just not by military action. So we've got two things. We've got the threat of military action trying to lead to a better agreement, nuclear agreement, which, to be fair, is in the regime's interest because it'll get the economic sanctions removed, which is a predominant purpose of the protests. Right. So in a way, although I think we should be negotiating, we should try to get to a better nuclear agreement, it's going to be. It's going to run counter to the actual protests who are going to have leftover reason to revolt and the regime is going to be stronger and they're going to be allowed to sell their oil. If they don't, there's secondary sanctions that the administration is looking at to try to prevent China from buying. I mean, there's all sorts of things that will make the economic circumstances in Iran even worse if these negotiations don't happen. But it's a fair point. You know, I think the United States, even if we get an agreement, should do everything we can to promote, legally, of course, freedom and democracy in Iran. But that's predominantly going to have to come from the Iranians.

Let me do something. I actually, I told myself in my notes today I would not do it, but I'm still going to do any, anyhow. You know, again, it's prediction, which is not a great idea to do. But what do you think, Andy? Let me start with you. Military confrontation with Iran or. No, just given everything, you know, right.

[Andy Milburn]

Now, I think there will eventually be military confrontation with Iran. It may not follow in the next days or even weeks, but I think there will. I cannot imagine, frankly, and I know this sounds very down, very pessimistic, but I can't imagine an agreement that's going to satisfy, that we can monitor, United States can monitor effectively. That's going to satisfy our concerns. And I can't Imagine Iran agreeing to such an agreement. They may do so just for the sake of deliberately deliberation and sanctions relief, but I don't think they're going to follow through. So that's why I think some kind of confrontation, military confrontation, it's inevitable.

[Mark]

Mick, your thoughts?

Yeah. So the Iranians never seem to miss an opportunity to miss an opportunity, in my opinion. Right. So they, they seem like they're headed in the right way. You can, you know, if you remove yourself as a partisan in it, you can see why it would be to their advantage to get a nuclear agreement, a new one, because of these massive sanctions that are on it and, and what it's doing to their grip on power, if you will, even if you're just looking at it from their perspective. But they seem incapable of understanding that. They seem like they really believe that having a nuclear weapon will make the regime impervious to being overthrown without thinking that, like, there's no way that Israel alone, let alone the United States is going to allow that to happen. They're just going to, and we've already seen that Israel has the capacity to go in there, eradicate their air and missile defense, eradicate their air force, and basically own the skies. So if I was looking at it from their point of view, I'd say, well, we're only, we're not even giving up something that we can actually acquire because they're not going to let us acquire it. So why not give it up so we can, you know, bolster the economy, bolster our position here. If I'm in the regime, I'd want to stay there, but I don't think they'll do it. I think they'll come up with yet another reason to scuttle this thing with, with this idea. They're staying almost half pregnant. Right. They're in the worst possible position. I don't know if it's good analogy, but they, they, they don't have a nuclear weapon to use, but they look like they're trying to acquire one because it's way above the need for civilian use. So they're basically making themselves a target, a legitimate target, in my opinion. Yet they're, you know, there's really no path forward other than an agreement that would relieve the sanctions and basically acknowledge that they're never going to get to nuclear weapon. So that's a long way of saying that I think this probably will fail, unfortunately, certainly not pulling for it. And then the US either will get tired of negotiations dragging out and start using the actual force to be an influencer or they'll just fall apart. And I do agree with Andy. They're setting up. I mean, we've got like eight destroyers, six cruisers, we're going to have two aircraft carrier strike multiple squadrons of fighter air jets. I imagine from what I'm hearing from the media that, you know, there's been a lot of preparatory warning orders given to our strategic bomber Command. I mean, this could be a very long, sustained, multi week campaign to not only degrade the nuclear programs to target ballistic missiles, particularly the launchers. Of course you can have a lot of missiles, no launchers don't make any difference. And maybe even a regime target. So maybe he'll address the point you just asked me about, Mark, and say, okay, I'm going to target some of the regime because of what they've done, killing thousands of protesters and jailing tens of thousands.

I'm not so sure. So I'm going to take a little bit of a different tack. Only in, you know, we all kind of look at the criminology of the Trump administration. I think there's too many people in there who are not in favor of this from the MAGA world. But also Trump seems to like these kind of quick, easy, decisive wins. The Soleimani strike first administration, Maduro couple hours. The strike on the Iranian nuclear program, again, incredible strike, one day at most. And I would imagine that the chairman of the Joint Chiefs and others are telling Trump, hey, this could be sustained over weeks. And I don't know if he has the appetite to do that. And certainly I don't know if the American people do as well. I think there is some domestic politics involved in this as we've been kind of sleepwalking in here. So I'm not so sure he has the stomach for this, but we'll see. But D I gotta throw it to you. What do you think?

[Dean]

Yeah, so listen, the goal of like doing this like a sustained week, weeks long campaign, bombing Iran outside of like totally trying to actually destroy their nuclear program, what's the fucking point again? Just to get them back to the negotiation table and like maybe, fingers crossed, we maybe make the regime collapse. Like that's the reasoning. But like to me that reasoning outside of the nuclear problem doesn't make any sense as like a layman domestic, you know, civilian.

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[Podcast Host]

I've got Dan Morgan here on the pod. Say hi, Dan.

[Dan Morgan]

Hey, how's it going today?

[Podcast Host]

It's going good, man. Tell us who you are and what you do.

[Dan Morgan]

I'm Dan Morgan. I'm an attorney and a managing partner at Morgan and Morgan, which is America's largest injury law firm.

[Podcast Host]

That's pretty awesome. I think I saw a billboard of yours recently. It said 20 billion one. 20 billion is an insane number.

[Dan Morgan]

Yeah, 20 billion recovered. It's actually, I think somewhere north. Probably closer to 22, 23 after this year. And each year we get bigger and better and our army grows. So the number will hopefully keep getting bigger and bigger as time goes on.

[Andy Milburn]

Awesome.

[Podcast Host]

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[Mark]

Wow.

[Podcast Host]

Dan Morgan from Morgan and Morgan, America's large injury law firm. Thanks for coming by the show.

[Dan Morgan]

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[Mark]

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I would throw into that, too, that, you know, and, you know, maybe we can close on this. On this note, do you guys agree that there, I mean, there should be a Trump address to the American people? I mean, good lord, we're going down the road of a major, major military campaign. Congress is sleeping. I would imagine you're gonna see calls for war powers resolution stuff, but what about at least explaining to the American people what in the heck we're doing? And by the way, if it's gonna be a sustained campaign, and this is the horrible part of this, we're gonna lose people. The idea that this is gonna be kind of pain free, which so many of these. I think Trump's gotten lucky with a couple of these military operations because nothing really bad has happened to US Forces. But, you know, if you take the country to war over sustained, multi week campaign, we're going to lose some servicemen and women. So do you think that Trump has to then make this case to the American people, Andy?

[Andy Milburn]

I think that would be absolutely leadership. Right? That's what presidents do. Do I think it's going to happen and do I think ultimately it matters? That's a different question. I don't think. Here's why I don't think it matters. I don't think the American public gives a shit about what goes on, about what the US Military is doing overseas. Now, I may have overstated that. I think they would be upset if we got involved in an attritional ground war. But strikes, I don't think it means anything to them. And frankly, I don't think it means that much to Congress either. I think the average representative does not understand his or her role in the process. Checks and balances. And I think we saw this atrophy over 20 years in Iraq and Afghanistan. We've talked about this. The AUMF being continuously expanded without any real discussion or deliberation. I think we're at a point where no one has skin in the game. I mean, really, the American public's focused on the economy and focused on what's happening domestically. The average representative, as far as having people who are in the military within their constituents or families of those within the military, they're always going to be a minority. And so there's no real incentive to challenge what the executive is doing regardless of party, that's sadly where I am. So to answer your question, I don't think that the administration will feel a compulsion to talk directly to the American people. And I don't think that by and large the American public cares either.

[Mark]

Well, that's a heck of a place to end. That's a depressing note. I hope they would do it, but maybe you're right on that, Andy.

[Dean]

I don't know man, because like you're right, you're probably, you're right. Most people don't give a. In terms of, especially if like we don't have a hundred thousand troops there and, and hundreds of billions of dollars being wasted. But like it is a midterm election year and I could totally, if I'm a political strategist or ad maker, I'm making like whoever's not saying anything. There's ways to like nudge people along into like this. Trump was supposed to be the president to end all wars and do that and he's bombing everybody he could find. You know, anybody like you pointed on a map. He's helped do it. I'm just saying like there is like a wedge there. There is like an angle there, I guess to like to put pressure on congressmen, especially if, I mean Congress has been feckless for the last, at last year and a half year or whatever. They have done nothing specifically when it comes to Venezuela or they punted it multiple times. So I don't know. Most people don't give a. Obviously they care about their Netflix and, and their tick tock and stuff. But I don't know. I think there are ways to move the balance a little.

[Andy Milburn]

Yeah, and, and I, I know we're wrapping up here. I agree with you, Dean, but I think that that's not going to be enough to move the needle at all. And I don't think what the American public wants or doesn't want or polling matters at all to the administration. You know, and it's not just this administration. I think we've got to wait for a determined effort from within the Senate. And of course that is where this effort should come from. When I say effort, I mean just simply to do what the Senate's supposed to do constitutionally, which is act as a check and ask the right questions before we go to war.

[Mark]

On that point, then I think there's probably a limit to this because come November or really next January, there could be a flip in the United States in terms of balance of power. And so that would argue that this whole Iran thing has got to be wrapped up before the midterms. D How'd I do in hosting duties?

[Dean]

You did incredible. So let's just wrap it up a little bit more. I want Everyone to check out Andy Milburn's book. When the temp gathers. That link is in the description. Mick mentioned the Montana security conference. That link, if you want to go there, those for tickets. That link is in the description as well.

[Mark]

Is he sending you there? Is he gonna. Are you going?

[Dean]

We're talking about going. Yeah, like me, you better pay your way. Me and no, no, I'm not paying for anything. I'm not paying for. If I'm going there, I'm not paying for anything. But Jackson, Jackson, Tokyo, right now, when he comes back, we're gonna figure it out if we're going or not. We're talking about possibly, yes. So we'll do some Team House and some Eyes on from there if we do go. Mark, you got a book, Clarity in Crisis. Check it out. That link is in the description. You know, I'll put all your links in the description as well. Your Twitter, your. I don't do all the stuff. All your stuff to find Mark and Andy and everybody else. That link is in the description and patreon.com the teamhouse. If you want to help support the show both Eyes on and the Team House, go there. Thank you.

[Mark]

Thanks, guys. That was great. Honor to be here.

Hey, guys, I want to tell all of you today about a new newsletter that we're launching that encompasses both the.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Teamhouse podcast, the Eyes on podcast and the High side news outlet, which I.

[Mark]

Run with Sean Naylor. The newsletter is going to be once a week, it's going to come into your inbox and you're going to get.

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[Mark]

And the Team House and whatever's topical or current on the High side. So it's another way for us to get the information out to you as.

Social media algorithms are pretty iffy and.

You never really know what you're going to get. So this is a once a week email.

[Ryan Seacrest]

It'll slide into your inbox and it.

[Mark]

Will have, you know, the greatest hits of that week.

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It's really good, man.

[Andy Milburn]

Checking it out.

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[Mark]

Enter into your email list or you enter your email into the little thing on the website and you're good to.

Go and that'll be it. So we really appreciate your support and.

Hope you'll consider signing up.

The link will also be down in.

The description if you're looking for it there. And that's teamhousepodcast.com Kit K. I T.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Kilo India tango.com Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. Are you feeling those winter blues? Well, do not worry. They've got you covered with ways to boost your mood. Add a little sweetness to your day with big savings on all your favorite sweets. Shop in store or online and save on items like Gummy Savers. Five flavors, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Sour Patch watermelon M&M's party size stand Up Bags and Ferrero Rocher Mixed Variety squares. Offer ends February 24th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Podcast Host]

I've got Dan Morgan here on the pod. Say hi Dan.

[Dan Morgan]

Hey, how's it going today?

[Podcast Host]

It's going good, man. Tell us who you are and what you do.

[Dan Morgan]

I'm Dan Morgan. I'm an attorney and a managing partner at Morgan and Morgan, which is America's largest injury law firm.

[Podcast Host]

That's pretty awesome. I think I saw a billboard of yours recently. It said 20 billion won. 20 million is an insane number.

[Dan Morgan]

Yeah, 20 billion recovered. It's actually, I think somewhere north, probably closer to 22, 23 after this year. And each year we get bigger and badder and our army grows. So the number will hopefully keep getting bigger and bigger as time goes on.

[Andy Milburn]

Awesome.

[Podcast Host]

So how does someone get in contact with Morgan and Morgan? What would I do if I got into an accident?

[Dan Morgan]

Probably the easiest way is dialing pound law. That's £529 from your cell phone. We are always open. Our call center is always waiting to to take your call. 24, 7, 365.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Wow.

[Podcast Host]

Dan Morgan from Morgan Morgan, America's largest injury law firm. Thanks for coming by the show.

[Dan Morgan]

Thanks for having me. Visit forthepeople.com for an office near you.

[American Express Representative]

With the American Express Platinum card you can access over $3,500 in annual value with benefits and eligible purchases across travel, entertainment and more. There's nothing like Platinum. Learn more@american express.com Explore Platinum enrollment requirements monthly and other limits in terms of play backslash.

[Dean]

Join.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. Are you feeling those winter blues? Well, do not worry. They've got you covered with ways to boost your mood. Add a little sweetness to your day with big savings on all your favorite sweets. Shop in store or online and save on items like Gummy Savers five Flavors, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Sour Patch watermelon M&M's party size stand Up Bags and Ferrero Rocher Mixed Variety Squares offer ends February 2020, 24th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Podcast Host]

I've got Dan Morgan here on the pod. Say hi, Dan.

[Dan Morgan]

Hey, how's it going today?

[Podcast Host]

It's going good, man. Tell us who you are and what you do.

[Dan Morgan]

I'm Dan Morgan. I'm an attorney and a managing partner at Morgan and Morgan, which is America's largest injury law firm.

[Podcast Host]

That's pretty awesome. I think I saw a billboard of yours recently that said 20 billion won. 20 million is an insane number.

[Dan Morgan]

Yeah, 20 billion recovered. It's actually, I think somewhere north. Probably closer to 22, 23 after this year. And each year we get bigger and badder and our army grows. So the number will hopefully keep getting bigger and bigger as time goes on.

[Andy Milburn]

Awesome.

[Podcast Host]

So how does someone get in contact with Morgan and Morgan? What would I do if I got into an accident?

[Dan Morgan]

Probably the easiest way is dialing pound law. That's £529 from your cell phone. We are always open. Our call center is always waiting to to take your call. 24, 7, 365.

[Andy Milburn]

Wow.

[Podcast Host]

Dan Morgan from Morgan and Morgan, America's largest injury law firm. Thanks for coming by the show.

[Dan Morgan]

Thanks for having me. Visit forthepeople.com for an office near you.

[American Express Representative]

There's nothing like my American Express Platinum card. I love that I can earn hotel credits when I travel. I can also earn resi credits, so you know, I'm hitting the restaurants everyone's talking about. Plus, with the digital entertainment credit, I'm even more excited to catch my favorite shows. All in all, I can access over $3,500 in annual value with benefits and eligible purchases across travel, entertainment and more. Learn [e-mail] Explore Platinum Enrollment Requirements monthly and other limits in terms apply.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. It's cough cold and flu season. Do not get caught feeling under the weather. Get back to feeling good with savings on all your cold and flu Essentials now through February 24th. Shop in store or online to stock up and save on Items like Mucinex, Fast Max Liquid Gels, Vicks Decoil and NyQuil combo packs, Halls, cough drops and Tylenol. Children's liquid. Offer ends February 24th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Podcast Host]

I've got Dan Morgan here on the pod. Say hi, Dan.

[Dan Morgan]

Hey, how's it going today?

[Podcast Host]

It's going good, man. Tell us who you are and what you do?

[Dan Morgan]

I'm Dan Morgan. I'm an attorney and a managing partner at Morgan and Morgan, which is America's largest injury law firm.

[Podcast Host]

That's pretty awesome. I think I saw a billboard of yours recently that said 20 billion won. 20 billion is an insane number.

[Dan Morgan]

Yeah, 20 billion recovered. It's actually, I think somewhere north. Probably closer to 22, 23 after this year. And each year we get bigger and badder and our army grows. So the your number will hopefully keep getting bigger and bigger as time goes on.

[Andy Milburn]

Awesome.

[Podcast Host]

So how does someone get in contact with Morgan and Morgan? What would I do if I got into an accident?

[Dan Morgan]

Probably the easiest way is dialing pound law. That's £529 from your cell phone. We are always open. Our call center is always waiting to take your call. 247 365.

[Mark]

Wow.

[Podcast Host]

Dan Morgan from Morgan and Morgan, America's largest injury law firm. Thanks for coming by the show.

[Dan Morgan]

Thanks for having me. Visit forthepeople.com for an office near you.

[Mark]

My Amex Blue Cash Everyday card is.

[Ryan Seacrest]

My go to accessory. When I shop, I can earn 3% cash back on US online retail purchases.

[Mark]

Try on the Blue Cash Everyday card.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Learn [e-mail] Explore BCE terms and cash back cap apply. Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons N Safeway. It's cough, cold and flu season. Do not get caught feeling under the weather. Get back to feeling good with savings on all your cold and flu Essentials. Now through February 24th. Shop in store or online to stock up and save on Items like Mucinex, Fast Max Liquid Gels, Vicks Day Cool and NyQuil combo packs, holes, cough drops and Tylenol Children's liquid. Offer ends February 24th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Podcast Host]

I've got Dan Morgan here on the pod. Say hi, Dan.

[Dan Morgan]

Hey, how's it going today?

[Podcast Host]

It's going good, man. Tell us who you are and what you do.

[Dan Morgan]

I'm Dan Morgan. I'm an attorney and a managing partner at Morgan and Morgan, which is America's largest injury law firm.

[Podcast Host]

That's pretty awesome. I think I saw a billboard of yours recently that said 20 billion won. 20 billion is an insane number.

[Dan Morgan]

Yeah, 20 billion recovered. It's actually, I think somewhere north. Probably closer to 22, 23 after this year. And each year we get bigger and badder and our army grows. So the the number will hopefully keep getting bigger and bigger as time goes on.

[Andy Milburn]

Awesome.

[Podcast Host]

So how does someone get in contact with Morgan and Morgan. What would I do if I got into an accident?

[Dan Morgan]

Probably the easiest way is dialing pound law. That's £529 from your cell phone. We are always open. Our call center is always waiting to take your call. 247365 wow.

[Podcast Host]

Dan Morgan from Morgan Morgan, America's largest injury law firm. Thanks for coming by the show.

[Dan Morgan]

Thanks for having me. Visit forthepeople.com for an office near you.

[American Express Representative]

There's nothing like my American Express Platinum card. I love that I can earn hotel credits when I travel. I can also earn resi credits so you know I'm hitting the restaurants everyone's talking about. Plus, with the digital entertainment credit, I'm even more excited to catch my favorite shows. All in all, I can access over $3,500 in annual value with benefits and eligible purchases across travel, entertainment and more. Learn [e-mail] Explore Platinum Enrollment Requirements monthly and other limits in terms apply.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. It's cough, cold and flu season. Do not get caught feeling under the weather. Get back to feeling good with savings on all your cold and flu Essentials now through February 24th. Shop in store or online to stock up and save on Items like Mucinex, Fast Max Liquid Gels, Vicks, DayQuil and NyQuil combo packs, holes, cough drops and Tylenol Children's liquid. Offer ends February 24th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Podcast Host]

I've got Dan Morgan here on the pod. Say hi, Dan.

[Dan Morgan]

Hey, how's it going today?

[Podcast Host]

It's going good, man. Tell us who you are and what you do.

[Dan Morgan]

I'm Dan Morgan. I'm an attorney and a managing partner at Morgan and Morgan, which is America's largest injury law firm.

[Podcast Host]

That's pretty awesome. I think I saw a billboard of yours recently that said 20 billion one. 20 billion is an insane number.

[Dan Morgan]

Yeah, 20 billion recovered. It's actually, I think somewhere north, probably closer to 22, 23 after this year. And each year we get bigger and better and our army grows. So the number will hopefully keep getting bigger and bigger as time goes on.

[Andy Milburn]

Awesome.

[Podcast Host]

So how does someone get in contact with Morgan and Morgan? What would I do if I got into an accident?

[Andy Milburn]

Accident?

[Dan Morgan]

Probably the easiest way is dialing pound law. That's £529 from your cell phone. We are always open. Our call center is always waiting to take your call. 247 365.

[Mark]

Wow.

[Podcast Host]

Dan Morgan from Morgan Morgan, America's large injury law firm. Thanks for coming by the show.

[Dan Morgan]

Thanks for having me. Visit forthepeople.com for an office near you.

[American Express Representative]

With the American Express Platinum card, you can access over $3,500 in annual value with benefits and eligible purchases across travel, entertainment and more. There's nothing like Platinum. Learn more@american express.com Explore-platinum enrollment requirements monthly and other limits in terms of.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. Are you feeling those winter blues? Well, do not worry. They've got you covered with ways to boost your mood, add a little sweetness to your day with big savings on all your favorite sweets. Shop in store or online and save on items like Gummy Savers, five Flavors, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, Sour Patch Watermelon, M M's Party Size Stand Up Bags and Ferrero Rocher Mixed Variety squares. Offer ends February 24th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Podcast Host]

I've got Dan Morgan here on the pod. Say hi, Dan.

[Dan Morgan]

Hey, how's it going today?

[Podcast Host]

It's going good, man. Tell us who you are and what you do.

[Dan Morgan]

Hello, I'm Dan Morgan. I'm an attorney and a managing partner at Morgan and Morgan, which is America's largest injury law firm.

[Podcast Host]

That's pretty awesome. I think I saw a billboard of yours recently that said 20 billion one. 20 billion is an insane number.

[Dan Morgan]

Yeah, 20 billion recovered. It's actually, I think somewhere north, probably closer to 2223 after this year. And each year we get bigger and badder and our army grows. So the number will hopefully keep getting bigger and bigger as time goes on.

[Andy Milburn]

Awesome.

[Podcast Host]

So how does someone get in contact with Morgan and Morgan? What would I do if I got into an accident?

[Dan Morgan]

Probably the easiest way is dialing pound law. That's £529 from your cell phone. We are always open. Our call center is always waiting to take your call. 247365 wow.

[Podcast Host]

Dan Morgan from Morgan Morgan, America's largest injury law firm. Thanks for coming by the show.

[Dan Morgan]

Thanks for having me. Visit forthepeople.com for an office near you.

[American Express Representative]

With the American Express Platinum card, you can access over $3,500 in annual value with benefits and eligible purchases, purchases across travel, entertainment and more. There's nothing like Platinum. Learn more@american express.com explore-platinum enrollment requirements, monthly and other limits in terms of Apply.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. Are you feeling those winter blues. Well, do not worry. They've got you covered with ways to boost your mood. Add a little sweetness to your day with big savings on all your favorite sweets. Shop in store or online and save on items like Gummy Savers. Five Flavors, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Sour Patch Watermelon, M M's Party Size Stand Up Bags and Ferrero Rocher Mixed Variety squares. Offer ends February 24th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Podcast Host]

I've got Dan Morgan here on the pod. Say hi, Dan.

[Dan Morgan]

Hey, how's it going today?

[Podcast Host]

It's going good, man. Tell us who you are and what you do.

[Dan Morgan]

Hello, I'm Dan Morgan. I'm an attorney and a managing partner at Morgan and Morgan, which is America's largest injury law firm.

[Podcast Host]

That's pretty awesome. I think I saw a billboard of yours recently that said 20 billion. 120 billion is an insane number.

[Dan Morgan]

Yeah, 20 billion recovered. It's actually, I think somewhere north, probably closer to 22, 23 after this year. And each year we get bigger and badder and our army grows. So the number will hopefully keep getting bigger and bigger as time goes on.

[Andy Milburn]

Awesome.

[Podcast Host]

So how does someone get in contact with Morgan and Morgan? What would I do if I got into an accident?

[Dan Morgan]

Probably the easiest way is dialing pound law. That's £529 from your cell phone. We are always open. Our call center is always waiting to take your call. 247365 wow.

[Podcast Host]

Dan Morgan from Morgan Morgan, America's largest injury law firm. Thanks for coming by the show.

[Dan Morgan]

Thanks for having me. Visit forthepeople.com for an office near you.

[American Express Representative]

With the American Express Platinum card, you can access over $3,500 in annual value with benefits and eligible purchases across travel, entertainment and more. There's nothing like Platinum. Learn more@american express.com Explore-platinum enrollment requirements monthly and other limits in terms apply.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. Are you feeling those winter blues? Well, do not worry. They've got you covered with ways to boost your mood, add a little sweetness to your day with big savings on all your favorite sweets. Shop in store or online and save on items like Gummy Savers five Flavors, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, Sour Patch, Watermelon, M M's Party Size Stand Up Bags and Ferrero Rocher Mixed Variety squares. Offer ends February 24th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Podcast Host]

I've got Dan Morgan here On the pod. Say, hi, Dan.

[Dan Morgan]

Hey, how's it going today?

[Podcast Host]

It's going good, man. Tell us who you are and what you do.

[Dan Morgan]

Hello, I'm Dan Morgan. I'm an attorney and a managing partner at Morgan and Morgan, which is America's largest injury law firm.

[Podcast Host]

That's pretty awesome. I think I saw a billboard of yours recently that said 20 billion. 120 billion is an insane number.

[Dan Morgan]

Yeah, 20 billion recovered. It's actually, I think somewhere north. Probably closer to 22, 23 after this year. And each year we get bigger and badder and our army grows. So the number will hopefully keep getting bigger and bigger as time goes on.

[Andy Milburn]

Awesome.

[Podcast Host]

So how does someone get in contact with Morgan and Morgan? What would I do if I got into an accident?

[Dan Morgan]

Probably the easiest way is dialing pound law. That's £529 from your cell phone. We are always open. Our call center is always waiting to take your call. 247 365.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Wow.

[Podcast Host]

Dan Morgan from Morgan and Morgan, America's largest injury law firm. Thanks for coming by the show.

[Dan Morgan]

Thanks for having me. Visit forthepeople.com for an office near you.

[American Express Representative]

With the American Express Platinum card, you can access over $3,500 in annual value with benefits and eligible purchases, purchases across travel, entertainment and more. There's nothing like platinum. Learn more at americanexpress.com/explatin-platin enrollment requirements monthly and other limits in terms of play.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. Are you feeling those winter blues? Well, do not worry. They've got you covered with ways to boost your mood, add a little sweetness to your day. With big savings on all your favorite sweets, shop in store or online and save on items like Gummy Savers, Five Flavors, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, Sour Patch, Watermelon, M M's Party Size, Stand Up Bags, and Ferrero Rocher Mixed Variety squares. Offer ends February 24th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Podcast Host]

I've got Dan Morgan here on the pod. Say hi, Dan.

[Dan Morgan]

Hey, how's it going today?

[Podcast Host]

It's going good, man. Tell us who you are and what you do.

[Dan Morgan]

Hello, I'm Dan Morgan. I'm an attorney and a managing partner at Morgan and Morgan, which is America's largest injury law firm.

[Podcast Host]

That's pretty awesome. I think I saw a billboard of yours recently that said 20 billion. 120 billion is an insane number.

[Dan Morgan]

Yeah, 20 billion recovered. It's actually, I think somewhere north, probably closer to 22, 23. After this year and each year we get bigger and badder and our army grows. So the number will hopefully keep getting bigger and bigger as time goes on.

[Mark]

Awesome.

[Podcast Host]

So how does someone get in contact with Morgan and Morgan? What would I do if I got into an accident?

[Dan Morgan]

Probably the easiest way is dialing pound law. That's £529 from your cell phone. We are always open. Our call center is always waiting to take your call. 247365 wow.

[Podcast Host]

Dan Morgan from Morgan Morgan, America's largest injury law firm. Thanks for coming by the show.

[Dan Morgan]

Thanks for having me. Visit forthepeople.com for an office near you.

[Mark]

My Amex Blue cash everyday Card is.

[Ryan Seacrest]

My go to accessory. When I shop, I can earn 3% cash back on US online retail purchases.

[Mark]

Try on the Blue Cash Everyday Card.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Learn [e-mail] Explore BCE terms and cash Back Cap apply. Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. Are you feeling those winter blues? Well, do not worry, they've got you covered with ways to boost your mood. Add a little sweetness to your day with big savings on all your favorite sweets. Shop in store or online and save on items like Gummy Savers, five Flavors, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Sour Patch watermelon, M&M's party size stand Up Bags and Ferrero Rocher Mixed Variety Square. Offer ends February 24th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Mark]

My Amex Blue Cash everyday Card is.

[Ryan Seacrest]

My go to accessory. When I shop, I can earn 3% cash back on US online retail purchases.

[Mark]

Try on the Blue Cash Everyday Card.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Learn [e-mail] Explore BCE terms and cash Back Cap apply.

[American Express Representative]

There's nothing like my American Express Platinum Card. I love that I can earn hotel credits when I travel. I can also earn RESI credits so you know I'm hitting the restaurants everyone's talking about. Plus, with the digital entertainment credit, I'm even more excited to catch my favorite shows. All in all, I can access over $3,500 in annual value with benefits and eligible purchases across travel, entertainment and more. Learn [e-mail] Explore Platinum Enrollment Requirements monthly and other limits in terms Apply.