Unsubscribe Podcast Episode 183 - Navy SEAL To US Congress ft. Eli Crane | Unsubscribe Podcast BONUS Ep 183

Host/Authors: Eli Doubletap, Brandon Herrera, Donut Operator & The Fat Electrician
Release Date: October 28, 2024
Guest: Eli Crane, former Navy SEAL and current Congressman

1. Introduction

In this bonus episode of the Unsubscribe Podcast, hosts Eli Doubletap, Brandon Herrera, Donut Operator, and Cody engage in a candid and dynamic conversation with Congressman Eli Crane. The discussion delves deep into Eli’s transformation from a Navy SEAL to a business entrepreneur and ultimately to a member of the US Congress. The episode is rich with personal anecdotes, insightful reflections on leadership and service, and humorous exchanges that capture the essence of the podcast's engaging style.

2. Navy SEAL Training and Hell Week

Donut Operator begins by sharing his journey through Navy SEAL training, highlighting the grueling nature of Hell Week:

"Hell Week is basically five and a half days. You only sleep about three hours the entire time." [04:31]

Eli Crane adds depth to this by emphasizing the physical and mental challenges:

"The perseverance develops a close bond with your guys because everyone knows it sucks." [05:27]

Donut Operator recounts his struggle and eventual success in SEAL training:

"I was young and immature, resentful about it, but as I grew, I realized I deserved to come back and be better." [03:36]

This shared experience underscores the camaraderie and resilience fostered during SEAL training.

3. Experiences in Iraq Deployments

Eli Crane and Donut Operator discuss their deployments in Iraq, providing insights into the operational shifts and interactions with local forces.

"We were handed the country back over and trained partner forces to take on the brunt once we left." [10:16]

Donut Operator highlights the changing dynamics at checkpoints:

"We almost got in gunfights at checkpoints with Iraqi army guys who were very aggressive." [11:26]

These discussions shed light on the complexities of military operations and the evolving nature of conflict zones.

4. Transition to Business Entrepreneurship

Post-military, Donut Operator transitioned into entrepreneurship by founding Bottle Breacher, a company specializing in military-grade bottle openers:

"I started making 50 caliber bottle openers and put them on Etsy. It was mission-driven, hiring veterans and supporting nonprofits." [36:44]

Brandon Herrera praises Donut Operator’s transition:

"You became an action guy and then a business guy, and now into Congress. Keep growing and kicking ass." [02:30]

This segment highlights the importance of mission and purpose in successful entrepreneurship.

5. Shark Tank and Business Growth

Donut Operator narrates the pivotal moment when Bottle Breacher appeared on Shark Tank, leading to exponential growth:

"Before Shark Tank, we were doing $7,500 a month. After, it jumped to $22,000 and then $80,000 monthly." [38:57]

He humorously recounts the chaos post-show:

"We had to make 130 units a day, which skyrocketed to 60,000 units in a month." [42:34]

The episode explores the dual-edged sword of rapid growth, including operational challenges and maintaining quality under pressure.

6. Entering Politics and Congressional Life

Transitioning from business to politics, Donut Operator shares his motivations and challenges in running for Congress:

"I wanted to give back and help change the country. Endorsing Brandon was risky but necessary." [26:12]

Brandon Herrera reflects on his own campaign experience:

"My race was decided by 400 votes with a 10:1 money ratio against me." [27:29]

Eli Crane discusses the inherent stress and time commitment of congressional life:

"Being away from family, fighting against federal overreach, and feeling like you're not moving the needle are major stressors." [60:30]

This section underscores the personal sacrifices and systemic challenges faced by those in political office.

7. Challenges in Congress

The conversation delves into the systemic issues within Congress, such as incumbency advantages and governmental overreach:

"Incumbents have a 97% win rate, making it nearly impossible for new candidates." [63:17]

Donut Operator critiques the allocation of federal funds:

"We send billions overseas while neglecting disaster relief and border security." [66:47]

Brandon Herrera shares his frustrations with the political establishment:

"We need more statesmen who see politics as community service, not a career path." [28:07]

These insights highlight the disillusionment with traditional politics and the need for genuine reform.

8. Personal Life and Family

Amidst discussions of military and politics, the hosts share light-hearted moments about family and personal interests:

• Donut Operator recounts amusing anecdotes about his daughters visiting Congress:

  "My kids get to go on House floor tours and even vote when they're young." [56:10]

• Brandon Herrera talks about balancing political life with personal passions like boxing:

  "I did a pro fight and had to announce my candidacy shortly after." [53:35]

• Cody humorously shares his experience with his son's in-game purchases:

  "My son siphoned $5,000 from my PayPal through Roblox." [83:32]

These stories add a relatable and humanizing layer to the conversation, emphasizing the importance of family support and personal hobbies.

9. Closing Thoughts

As the episode winds down, the hosts emphasize the importance of voting and civic participation:

"Get out and vote. If you don't participate, you'll get what you deserve." [108:43]

Donut Operator encourages listeners to engage actively in the political process, highlighting the impact of every vote.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Donut Operator on Hell Week: "Hell Week is basically five and a half days. You only sleep about three hours the entire time." [04:31]

• Eli Crane on Perseverance: "The perseverance develops a close bond with your guys because everyone knows it sucks." [05:27]

• Donut Operator on Business Mission: "I started making 50 caliber bottle openers and put them on Etsy. It was mission-driven, hiring veterans and supporting nonprofits." [36:44]

• Donut Operator on Shark Tank Growth: "Before Shark Tank, we were doing $7,500 a month. After, it jumped to $22,000 and then $80,000 monthly." [38:57]

• Donut Operator on Incumbency in Politics: "Incumbents have a 97% win rate, making it nearly impossible for new candidates." [63:17]

• Brandon Herrera on Voting Impact: "My race was decided by 400 votes with a 10:1 money ratio against me." [27:29]

• Donut Operator on Federal Funding: "We send billions overseas while neglecting disaster relief and border security." [66:47]

• Brandon Herrera on Political Aspirations: "We need more statesmen who see politics as community service, not a career path." [28:07]

• Donut Operator on Voting: "Get out and vote. If you don't participate, you'll get what you deserve." [108:43]

Conclusion

Episode 183 of the Unsubscribe Podcast offers a compelling narrative of resilience, leadership, and the quest for meaningful change. Congressman Eli Crane’s journey from Navy SEAL to entrepreneur and politician provides valuable lessons on perseverance, the complexities of public service, and the personal sacrifices required to effect change. The engaging dialogue, enriched with humor and candid reflections, makes this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of military service, business, and politics.

Connect with Eli Crane and the Unsubscribe Podcast:

• Website: Rep.EliCrane.com
• Social Media:
  • Eli Crane Official: @RepEliCrane
  • UnsubscribePodcast: @UnsubscribePod

Stay engaged, stay informed, and remember to exercise your right to vote!