#753 - Tim Kennedy - What Went Wrong With America?
In the latest installment of Modern Wisdom, host Chris Williamson engages with guest Tim Kennedy in a comprehensive discussion on the myriad challenges currently facing the United States. The episode begins with an examination of military recruitment struggles, highlighting concerns such as the disqualification of a significant portion of young Americans due to health and educational issues. By delving into the implications of these challenges for the nation's defense readiness, the conversation illuminates a stark reality regarding the health and preparedness of potential servicemembers, and the possible crisis it indicates for the educational system.
Exploring other pressing issues, the podcast touches on the border crisis, with Kennedy illustrating the complexities faced due to cartels capitalizing on immigration influxes. He presents potential security measures while also weighing in on the American education system's shortfalls and introducing his innovative educational venture, Apogee, as a remedy. Additionally, Kennedy addresses the epidemic of mental health issues facing veterans, stressing the importance of purpose, support, and comprehensive therapy modalities. The episode is also peppered with poignant reflections on the true nature of combat and stories of military valor that capture the essence and sacrifices of soldiers in the line of duty.
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1-Page Summary
US Military Recruitment Issues
The United States military encounters considerable difficulties in recruiting due to an overwhelming majority of young Americans being ineligible. Health issues, particularly obesity, drug use, and both physical and mental health concerns, disqualify about 77% of individuals aged 17 to 24. The educational standards of potential recruits are also at risk, reflected by a continual decline in Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test scores over the past 25 years, suggesting a crisis in the education system that hampers military readiness.
Border crisis
The border crisis involves complex humanitarian and security challenges. Tim Kennedy addresses the exploitation by cartels that turn a profit from the immigration surge, using wristbands to manage their operations. With the border described as vast and porous, these cartels create diversions, overwhelming security to smuggle people into the U.S. Kennedy recounts specific incidents highlighting the gravity of the situation and recommends solutions such as building a border wall, using concertina wire, deploying armed guards, and enhancing inter-agency coordination.
Education Crisis
Kennedy critically views the public education system, calling it a failure at preparing students for the workforce, failing to teach life skills, and contributing to a decline in academic performance. He introduces his own educational institution, Apogee, as a model solution focused on project-based learning and entrepreneurship. There, students gain practical experience and develop critical thinking by running actual businesses and undergoing specialized apprenticeships, greatly outperforming their peers in standard educational metrics.
Mental health epidemic among veterans
The mental health of veterans is under strain, with high rates of PTSD, depression, and suicide. Kennedy believes that a lack of purpose after service exacerbates these issues. He suggests the establishment of strong communities and stresses the importance of both mental and physical self-care. Kennedy endorses innovative therapy approaches and advocates for easily accessible mental health resources, including the 988 hotline, and emphasizes daily wellness practices.
Reality of combat
Kennedy provides a stark contrast between the glorified depiction of combat in media and its chaotic reality, filled with intense and disorienting experiences. He talks about how detailed training and drilled procedures are crucial, enabling soldiers to respond automatically and appropriately during the pandemonium. Drawing from personal experiences, he explains how soldiers rely on their ingrained training for survival amidst explosions, injuries, and an array of overwhelming senses and emotions.
Stories of military heroism
Stories of courage abound in military history, with Kennedy recounting acts of heroism by soldiers like Master Sergeant Gary Gordon and Sergeant First Class Randall Shugart in "Black Hawk Down," and Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez during the Vietnam War. Both stories involve incredible sacrifices and bravery under extreme conditions, with Gordon and Shugart fighting until death to protect a downed pilot and Benavidez rescuing his team despite sustaining over 90 wounds, earning them the Medal of Honor for their unwavering commitment to their comrades and mission.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a test used by the U.S. military to assess recruits' abilities in various areas such as math, science, and mechanical comprehension. Declining ASVAB test scores over the past 25 years suggest a potential crisis in the education system, as lower scores may indicate a lack of preparedness among potential recruits. These scores are crucial as they help determine the eligibility and suitability of individuals for different military roles based on their cognitive abilities and skills. The ASVAB test is an important tool for the military to evaluate the academic and vocational aptitude of potential recruits, ensuring they are well-suited for their assigned roles.
- Apogee is an educational institution founded by Tim Kennedy that focuses on project-based learning and entrepreneurship. Students at Apogee gain practical experience by running real businesses and undergoing specialized apprenticeships. This approach aims to better prepare students for the workforce by emphasizing critical thinking and hands-on skills development. Apogee's model stands out for its innovative educational methods and its focus on practical, real-world applications.
- The 988 hotline is a proposed national three-digit phone number for mental health crises and suicide prevention in the United States. It is intended to provide easier access to mental health resources and support for individuals in need of immediate assistance. This hotline is similar to 911 for emergencies but specifically focused on mental health concerns. The goal is to streamline access to mental health services and reduce the stigma surrounding seeking help for mental health issues.
Counterarguments
- The challenges in US military recruitment may not solely be due to individual health issues or educational failings, but could also be influenced by broader societal factors, such as changing attitudes towards military service, economic opportunities, and alternative career paths that are more appealing to young people.
- Declining ASVAB scores could reflect changes in the test itself, differences in educational focus, or a broader range of knowledge and skills among young people that are not captured by the test.
- The effectiveness of a border wall and other physical barriers is debated, with some arguing that such measures are costly and may not effectively address the root causes of migration, such as violence, poverty, and political instability in home countries.
- The use of armed guards at the border raises ethical and practical concerns about the militarization of border security and the potential for human rights violations.
- Criticisms of the public education system may not take into account the challenges faced by schools, such as underfunding, large class sizes, and socioeconomic disparities that affect student performance.
- While project-based learning and entrepreneurship can be beneficial, they may not be suitable for all students, and traditional educational methods can still provide a solid foundation for many learners.
- The mental health issues faced by veterans are complex and multifaceted, and while community support and self-care are important, they may not be sufficient without addressing systemic issues within the military and veterans' affairs systems.
- The depiction of combat as chaotic and intense is accurate, but it is also important to recognize the psychological impact of combat on soldiers and the need for comprehensive mental health support both during and after service.
- While stories of military heroism are important, it is also necessary to acknowledge the experiences of soldiers who may not have received recognition and to understand the broader context of military conflicts, including the impact on civilian populations and ethical considerations.
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US Military Recruitment Issues
The US military faces significant challenges in recruiting new members, with ineligibility among young Americans being a pressing concern due to various disqualifying factors.
77% of eligible youth unqualified due to obesity, drugs, health issues
Recent findings from the American Department of Defense show that a staggering 77% of US individuals aged 17 to 24 are unqualified to serve in the military. The primary disqualifications stem from obesity, drug abuse, and a variety of physical and mental health issues. Alarmingly, nearly half of this demographic is disqualified for more than one reason.
Dropping ASVAB scores showing worsening education/intellect
Tim Kennedy, addressing the strategic impact of these recruitment challenges, highlights the seriousness of the situation. The dwindling pool of eligible recruits doesn't merely affect the size of the military but also its overall capability and effectiveness. Kennedy points out that the United States cannot expect to win wars when the available young population is considered ...
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US Military Recruitment Issues
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a test used by the United States military to assess a candidate's abilities and aptitudes for various military jobs. It measures strengths in areas like math, science, reading comprehension, and mechanical knowledge. ASVAB scores help determine which military roles a candidate is best suited for based on their skills and abilities. Low ASVAB scores can impact a candidate's eligibility for certain military jobs or branches.
- Tim Kennedy is a former professional mixed martial artist and a retired U.S. Army Special Forces soldier. He is known for his advocacy on military and national security issues, often speaking about the challenges faced by the U.S. military in recruitment and readiness. Kennedy's background as a Special Forces soldier lends credibility to his insights on military matters, including the impact of recruitment challenges on the overall capability and effectiveness of the military.
- The dropping ASVAB scores indicate a decline in the educational and intellectual readiness of potential military recruits. Lower scores suggest that a smaller pool of candidates possesses the necessary cognitive abilities for military roles. This trend could impact the military's effectiveness and capabilities in the long term. It highlights broader concerns about the quality of education and the potential impact on national security.
- The dropping ASVAB scores are linked to the education system as they reflect the academic preparedness and cognitive abilities of potential military recruits. Lower ASVAB scores over time indicate a decline in the quality of education and the intellectual capabilities of young individuals. This trend suggests that there may be systemic issues within the education system that are ...
Counterarguments
- The statistic that 77% of young Americans are unqualified may not account for the potential of individuals to overcome disqualifying factors with proper support and interventions.
- Disqualification for multiple reasons could be addressed through comprehensive policy changes and societal efforts to improve health and education outcomes.
- Declining ASVAB scores might reflect changes in the test or shifts in educational focus rather than a true decline in intellect or education quality.
- The military's effectiveness is not solely determined by the size of its recruitment pool but also by the quality of training, technology, and strategic planning.
- The challenges in recruitment could incentivize the military to innovate and adapt, potentially leading to a more efficient and technologically advanced force.
- The US military has historically found ways to adapt to recruitment challenges and may continue to do so through new strategies and modernization effor ...
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Border crisis
The border crisis remains a contentious issue involving harrowing humanitarian conditions and security concerns.
Horrificial humanitarian conditions
Cartels profiting from surge of immigrants
Tim Kennedy speaks about the crisis at the Mexican border, outlining the intricate operations of cartels, who are not only smuggling people but also engaging in trafficking of drugs, guns, and potentially even terrorists. Kennedy describes how cartels manipulate the surge of immigrants to facilitate these illegal activities, including profiting off tickets they sell to those desperate for safe passage—highlighting a particular influx from Ecuador. Wristbands are used by these cartels for coordination, indicating what type of access—such as round trip or one-way—immigrants have through areas controlled by them.
Porous border making trafficking epidemic
Kennedy goes on to portray the U.S.-Mexico border as vast and porous, allowing for easy crossings that further exacerbate the trafficking epidemic. He discusses how cartels create diversions to overwhelm border security, subsequently smuggling people across during the ensuing chaos. These coordinated crossings make the border particularly vulnerable to exploitation. Although barriers such as walls create chokepoints where interdiction can be more effective, Kennedy asserts they are not enough to drastically reduce trafficking issues, emphasizing the sophistication of the cartels' operations and the psychological barriers they enforce to prevent crossings without payment.
Tim's firsthand account of conditions
Kennedy argues that America is essentially at war with cartels at the border, insisting on the need for secure sovereignty. He implies that detention centers were more extensive during Obama's presidency than Trump's, attributing it to the effective deterrence during Trump’s tenure. Kennedy recounts an incident in New Yor ...
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Border crisis
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Operation Lone Star is an initiative by the Governor of Texas to enhance border security by deploying the state's National Guard to address issues like illegal immigration and smuggling. There has been tension between Texas authorities, who prioritize sealing the border, and the federal government, which may have differing views on border control strategies and policies. This clash reflects broader disagreements between state and federal entities regarding the approach to managing border security and immigration challenges. The operation aims to bolster security measures along the Texas-Mexico border to address the influx of unauthorized crossings and criminal activities.
- The lack of coordination and resources between the White House and the Department of State for managing immigration effectively highlights challenges in aligning policies and actions related to border security and immigration. This can lead to inefficiencies, delays, and inconsistencies in decision-making processes that impact how immigration issues are addressed and resolved. The White House sets the overall direction and priorities, while the Department of State plays a key role in implementing diplomatic strategies and managing international relations, including visa processing and refugee policies. When there is a lack of coordination and resources between these entities, it can hinder the ability to effectively manage immigration flows, ...
Counterarguments
- Cartels' involvement in immigration is complex, and while they may profit from smuggling, not all immigrants are associated with cartels, and many are fleeing violence and poverty.
- The surge of immigrants is driven by a variety of factors, including economic hardship and political instability in their home countries, not solely by cartels.
- Wristbands might be a method used by cartels, but focusing solely on this aspect may oversimplify the broader context of migration and the diverse reasons people migrate.
- Describing the border as "vast and porous" may not fully acknowledge the extensive surveillance, technology, and manpower already deployed along certain stretches of the border.
- While cartels may use diversions, many individuals and families present themselves directly to border authorities to seek asylum, following legal processes.
- The effectiveness of physical barriers like walls is debated, with some arguing that they are costly and can be circumvented, and that resources could be better spent on technology and personnel.
- The characterization of America being "at war" with cartels may be seen as an oversimplification of a complex socio-economic issue that involves both domestic and international policy challenges.
- The comparison of detention center usage between presidential administrations may not account for changes in migration patterns or policy shifts that impact the number of people detained.
- Operation Lone Star and similar initiatives may have critics who ...
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Education Crisis
Tim Kennedy delves into the current state of public education, diagnosing a crisis of learning and life preparedness as well as offering a beacon of hope through his school, Apogee.
Failing public schools produce unprepared workforce
Scores dropping, kids not learning life skills
Kennedy discusses the chronic problems plaguing the public education system. He criticizes schools for not teaching students essential life skills and states that current education is producing mere consumers without creativity, practical knowledge, or the ability to apply education to real life. He highlights a loss in generational knowledge transfer, where practical skills and trades are no longer learned from older family members.
Kennedy lambasts American schools because children are failing at reading and math, referring to the declining scores on the ASVAB, the military entrance exam, over the past 25 years as evidence that children are becoming less intelligent and are unprepared for the workforce.
Tim's school Apogee as a solution
Student-driven, project-based learning
Although the transcript did not contain specific details about Tim Kennedy's school, Apogee, Kennedy boasts that students from Apogee outperform others “in every metric of measurement”. He explains that while Apogee's students excel in standard education metrics like tests scores and GPAs, they also gain real-life experience through starting businesses, participating in specialized apprenticeship programs, and working with Fortune 500 companies. These experiences make their college applications stand out and allow them to perform exceptionally on standardized tests.
Kennedy elaborates on the school's unique approach, combining the best from various educational systems with a strong family core. At Apogee, students engage in project-based learning where even second graders have the ability to design, market, and sell products, and analyze their results financially. He talks about an environment where young students lead and make decisions, learning from real-world projects like selling furniture online or understanding the lessons from a failed venture.
...
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Education Crisis
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The ASVAB, or Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, is a test used by the United States military to assess a candidate's abilities and help determine which military jobs they are best suited for. It measures various skills such as math, reading comprehension, and mechanical knowledge. High scores on the ASVAB can open up more job opportunities within the military.
- Project-based learning (PBL) is an educational approach where students learn by actively exploring real-world challenges over an extended period. It involves students investigating and responding to complex questions or problems, promoting deeper understanding through hands-on experiences. PBL contrasts with traditional methods like rote memorization by emphasizing inquiry, problem-solving, and student-centered exploration. This approach aims to engage students in critical thinking, collaboration, and practical application of knowledge.
- A Grade Point Average (GPA) is a numerical representation of a student's academic performance in high school or college. It is calculated by averaging the grades received in all courses, typically on a scale of 0 to 4.0, with higher numbers indicating better performance. GPAs are commonly used by educational institutions to assess a student's overall academic achievement and are often a key factor in college admissions and scholarship decisions.
- The Fortune 500 is an annual list ranking the largest U.S. companies by revenue. These companies are influential and financially successful, often leading their industries ...
Counterarguments
- Public schools have a broader mandate to educate all students, which includes those with diverse learning needs and backgrounds, making it challenging to tailor education as specifically as smaller, private initiatives like Apogee might.
- The decline in ASVAB scores could be influenced by a variety of factors beyond the quality of education, such as changes in the test itself, the types of students taking the test, or broader societal changes.
- The loss of generational knowledge transfer may not be solely the fault of public schools, as societal changes and technological advancements have altered the ways in which skills and knowledge are acquired and valued.
- Project-based learning, while beneficial, may not be the best approach for all students, as different learning styles mean that some students thrive in more traditional educational environments.
- The success of students from Apogee might not be entirely attributable to the school's methods; selection bias could play a role if the school attracts students who are already motivated and supported by their families.
- The emphasis on entrepreneurship and starting businesses may not align with every student's interests or career aspirations, and a well-rounded education should accommodate a variety of future paths.
- The role of the nuclear family in education, while important, may not reflect the reality of all students' home lives, and schools need to be equipped to support students from a ran ...
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Mental health epidemic among veterans
Tim Kennedy discusses the significant mental health challenges facing veterans, suggesting various factors contributing to the epidemic and potential solutions.
High PTSD, depression, suicide rates
Kennedy discusses the prevalence of PTSD, depression, and high suicide rates among veterans. He acknowledges that veterans often carry emotional trauma and baggage from their time in service, which can lead to serious mental health issues. For instance, he mentions the suicide of staff sergeant Michelle Young, highlighting the seriousness of this crisis. Chris Williamson refers to a veteran battling PTSD and alcoholism, further illustrating the widespread impact of these problems among veterans.
Lack of purpose upon returning home
Kennedy also talks about the dangers of veterans feeling a lack of purpose upon their return home. He suggests that finding a purpose can lead to hope and joy, which can counteract feelings of depression and suicidal thoughts. The transformative power of purpose is emphasized as crucial for veterans’ well-being.
Need for community and mental/physical health
Kennedy stresses the need for a strong community and for veterans to take an active role in their mental and physical health. He recounts a story of a friend who, amidst personal turmoil, neglected self-care and spiraled into depression and suicidal thoughts. Furthermore, Kennedy promotes activities like spending time outside and engaging in self-care routines as ways to build resilience against mental health challenges.
Kennedy also talks a ...
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Mental health epidemic among veterans
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Lack of purpose for veterans can stem from the abrupt transition from military life to civilian life, where the structured environment and clear mission are replaced with uncertainty. This loss of identity and sense of direction can lead to feelings of aimlessness and disconnection, impacting mental well-being. Finding a new purpose post-service is crucial for veterans to regain a sense of fulfillment and direction in their lives. Support systems that help veterans identify and pursue meaningful goals can play a vital role in addressing this issue.
- Community support plays a crucial role in veterans' mental and physical health by providing a sense of belonging, understanding, and camaraderie. Veterans often benefit from connecting with others who have shared similar experiences, as it can reduce feelings of isolation and promote healing. Through community support, veterans can access resources, encouragement, and a support system that helps them navigate challenges and maintain overall well-being. This support network can offer a safe space for veterans to share their struggles, seek guidance, and receive empathy from those who comprehend the unique difficulties they face.
- Psychedelic therapy involves the use of psychedelic substances in a controlled setting to address mental health issues. These substances, like psilocybin or MDMA, are being studied for their potential to assist in treating conditions such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The therapy typically involves guided sessions with trained professionals to help individuals navigate their experiences and process emo ...
Counterarguments
- While finding purpose is important, it may not be a one-size-fits-all solution for all veterans' mental health issues, as individual experiences and needs can vary greatly.
- The emphasis on personal responsibility and positive daily decisions might overlook systemic issues and barriers that prevent veterans from accessing the care they need.
- Community support is highlighted as essential, but the text does not address potential challenges in building or accessing such communities, especially for isolated veterans.
- The effectiveness of innovative approaches like psychedelic therapy is still under research, and such treatments may not be suitable or available for all veterans.
- The focus on self-care routines and spending time outside, while beneficial, may not be sufficient for those with severe mental health conditions who might require professional intervention.
- The mention of the 988 hotline is important, but it does not address the quality of care or follow-up support once a veteran reaches out for help.
- The transformative power of purpose is emphasized, but the text does not consider that some vetera ...
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Reality of combat
Tim Kennedy delves into the harrowing experiences of combat, underscoring the chaotic environment and the crucial nature of ingrained training for survival.
Chaotic, smells of death, hard to comprehend
Kennedy describes combat as a stark contrast to its portrayal in popular media. It's not a "cool artistic violent ballet," but rather an onslaught of overwhelming sensations and confusion. During an intense firefight in Afghanistan in 2008, Kennedy ran out of ammunition while moving Czech special operations forces into position. He vividly recalls the mix of smells, including burning human flesh, diesel fuel, gunpowder, and dust kicked up by explosions. The reality of combat is hard to process, from understanding the sight of a wounded friend to the immediate danger of an area riddled with bullets. Kennedy likens being near an explosion to being concussed, emphasizing the harsh and unsanitary conditions soldiers endure, reminiscent of a horror film setting.
Importance of training responses to automatic
Training is what enables soldiers to react correctly despite the chaos of combat. Kennedy speaks about highly repetitive drills, like emergency rifle reloads, that are so ingrained that the body automatically knows what to do. This level of preparedness is evident within special forces teams where each member has a s ...
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Reality of combat
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Clarifications
- Tim Kennedy is a former professional mixed martial artist and a retired U.S. Army Special Forces soldier. He served in the military for over a decade, deploying to various combat zones, including Afghanistan. Kennedy is known for his expertise in firearms and combat training, often sharing his experiences and insights on the realities of combat and the importance of preparation and training.
- Soldiers undergo highly repetitive drills like emergency rifle reloads, which are practiced until they become automatic responses. These drills are designed to ensure that soldiers can react quickly and effectively in the chaos of combat situations. Special forces teams, like the one Tim Kennedy was a part of, f ...
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Stories of military heroism
Military operations are filled with stories of heroism, often with soldiers going beyond the call of duty to rescue their comrades and complete their missions under extreme conditions.
Shugart and Gordon's sacrifice in Black Hawk Down
Tim Kennedy recounts the valor of Master Sergeant Gary Gordon and Sergeant First Class Randall Shugart during the events of the Battle of Mogadishu, which was later depicted in the film "Black Hawk Down." Although not actually detailed in the transcript provided, the well-known story tells of how Shugart and Gordon, two Delta Force snipers assigned to overwatch from helicopters, observed a downed helicopter and the soldiers who survived fending off Somali militia.
Understanding that without help the survivors would likely be killed, Shugart and Gordon requested permission several times to land and assist. Initially denied by a superior, they persisted and were finally given authorization to enter the fray. The Snipers fought their way to the crash site, secured the perimeter by killing every armed insurgent nearby, and pulled the surviving pilot, Chief Warrant Officer Mike Durant, from the wreckage, equipping him with a weapon.
They continued to engage the enemy until they ran out of ammunition. After picking up enemy weapons from the ground and continuing the fight, they were eventually overtaken and killed. Their actions allowed the wounded Durant to be later captured rather than killed by the mob. For their selfless act and extraordinary courage, knowing that it would likely cost them their lives, they were posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
Roy Benavidez fighting off over 90 wounds to save team
Another remarkable incident of courage occurred during the Vietnam War involving Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez. One day, Benavidez overheard a Special Forces team get into a harrowing gunfight. In an act of valor, he voluntarily boarded a helicopter armed with only a knife and a medical bag to come to their aid. Despite sustaining over thirty bulle ...
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Stories of military heroism
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Clarifications
- Delta Force snipers are highly trained marksmen who are part of the United States Army's elite special operations unit, Delta Force. They are skilled in precision shooting and reconnaissance, often deployed on high-risk missions to provide overwatch and eliminate threats from a distance. Delta Force snipers play a crucial role in supporting their team by gathering intelligence, protecting key personnel, and engaging enemy targets with precision and stealth. Their expertise and training make them a valuable asset in complex and dangerous combat situations.
- The Battle of Mogadishu, also known as the Black Hawk Down incident, was a military operation in Somalia in 1993. It involved a U.S. military mission to capture key lieutenants of a Somali warlord, which led to a prolonged firefight and the downing of two U.S. helicopters. The battle resulted in significant casualties on both sides and highlighted the challenges of peacekeeping operations in the region.
- Special Forces teams are elite military units trained for special operations, such as unconventional warfare, counter-terrorism, and reconnaissance in hostile environments. They are highly skilled and equipped to carry out missions that require specialized training and tactics. These teams often work behind enemy lines and engage in high-risk operations to achieve strategic objectives. Special Forces play a crucial role ...
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