Episode 206: Kent Solheim "Green Beret/ Operation Volcano 2"

In this conversation, Colonel Kent Solheim shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a leader in the Special Forces. He discusses his motivations for joining the military, the pivotal moments in his career, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures. Colonel Solheim reflects on the impact of combat experiences on his perspective of life and the value of human existence, culminating in a life-changing injury during Operation Volcano 2. In this conversation, Kent shares his harrowing experience of being shot in combat, the emotional and physical challenges he faced during recovery, and the profound impact on his family. He reflects on the importance of resilience, the decision to amputate his leg, and his journey back to active duty as a Green Beret. Kent discusses the mental toll of his injuries, the fears he faced about his future, and how he has channeled his experiences into helping others through his foundation, Gold Star Teen Adventures.

00:00 Introduction to Colonel Kent Solheim's Journey

02:01 Early Life and Decision to Join the Military

05:14 Enlistment and Initial Military Experience

10:25 Transition from Enlisted to Officer

14:43 The Drive for Special Forces

19:40 Selection Process and Personal Challenges

29:57 First Deployment to Afghanistan

37:17 Leading in Combat: The First Night

43:20 The Importance of Training and Teamwork

45:07 Reflections on Combat Experiences

46:49 Changing Perspectives on War

49:43 The Impact of Deployments on Personal Growth

51:54 Lessons from Civilian Life in War Zones

54:16 Contrasting Reactions to War: Civilians vs. Soldiers

01:02:34 Operation Volcano 2: A Life-Changing Incident

01:08:35 The Mental Toll of Injury and Recovery

01:17:41 Fears and New Realities Post-Injury

01:20:53 Overcoming Doubts and Embracing New Challenges

01:24:06 The Decision to Embrace a Prosthetic Leg

01:26:45 Proving Himself: Competing as an Amputee

01:29:52 Leadership and Responsibility After Injury

01:31:41 Returning to Combat: A New Perspective

01:35:07 Defining Identity Beyond Injury

01:40:50 Family Dynamics and Support During Deployment

01:44:33 The Role of a Spouse in Military Life

01:46:49 Training the Next Generation of Medics

01:49:36 Transitioning to Civilian Life

01:51:21 Future Endeavors: Gold Star Teen Adventures

INTRO and OUTRO music written,performed, and provided by the band Rattle Root. Check them out below.