March 20, 2025

Episode 193: Andrew Impson "Ranger, Green Beret, Security Specialist"

-CHAPTERS-

00:00 Introduction to Andrew Impson's Military Journey

06:56 The Impact of 9/11 on Military Careers

12:34 Experiences in Iraq: First Impressions and Realities

18:42 Reflections on Military Responsibility and Autonomy

22:42 Lessons Learned from Deployments and Their Implications

24:45 Comparing American Democracy with Foreign Cultures

28:02 The Role of Protests and Civil Rights in America

38:52 The Role of Useful Idiots in Protests

40:38 Career Reflections and the Drive to Serve

41:23 The Decision to Re-enlist and Its Consequences

43:16 Challenges of Reintegration into Civilian Life

45:20 Experiences in Ranger School and Leadership Development

48:12 The Unique Dynamics of Special Forces Teams

51:17 Job Suitability and Aptitude in Special Forces

53:35 The Impact of Team Changes on Performance

59:28 Navigating Command Changes and Cultural Differences

01:03:46 A Run-In with Military Law in Iraq

01:12:16 Lessons Learned from Confrontations

01:15:05 Moments of Fear and Bravery in Service

01:16:47 Significant Deployment Experiences

01:20:08 Understanding Local Contexts in Conflict

01:22:10 Reflections on Military Impact and Change

01:24:07 Personal Reflections and Lessons Learned

01:25:11 The Impact of Military Life on Family

01:27:08 Physical and Mental Health Challenges

01:29:47 Navigating Post-Military Life

01:33:14 Exploring Alternative Therapies

01:34:33 Career Highlights and Personal Growth

01:38:56 Transitioning to Civilian Life

01:41:07 Current Work in Security Solutions

01:44:59 Raising Awareness on School Safety

01:46:50 Connecting with the Community

-SUMMARY-

In this conversation, Andrew Impson shares his extensive military journey, detailing his early influences, the impact of 9/11 on his career aspirations, and the complexities of war that shaped his worldview. He discusses his experiences in Iraq, the differences between big army and special operations, and his desire for more responsibility within the military. Andrew reflects on his transition back to civilian life, his time in Ranger School, and the dynamics of Special Forces teams, ultimately connecting his military experiences to current events and societal issues. In this conversation, Andrew Impson shares his experiences in the military, particularly focusing on the challenges of command changes, cultural shifts within military groups, and a significant encounter with law enforcement in Iraq. He reflects on his fears and bravery during deployments, the impact of his military career on his family, and his transition to civilian life. Andrew emphasizes the importance of active threat preparedness in schools and communities, advocating for better planning and collaboration between law enforcement and educational institutions.

 

 

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

 

 

Transcript

Andrew Impson Profile Photo

Andrew Impson

Security Consultant/SF Veteran

Andrew Impson is a seasoned Special Operations veteran with over 20 years of military service, specializing in intelligence and tactical operations. As a former Infantryman, Special Forces Operator, and Instructor, he has trained and led elite teams in high-stakes environments, mastering disciplines such as reconnaissance, mission planning, and operational security.

His assignments include infantryman, infantry fire team leader, infantry squad leader, Special Forces Weapons Sergeant, Special Forces Intelligence Sergeant, Special Forces Senior Leader Course Instructor, and Special Forces Team Sergeant. Andrew has 50 months of deployed overseas time to accomplish multiple mission sets in various countries in the Middle East.

Beyond his military career, Andrew has continued his service as an Active Threat Planning Implementation Manager, working alongside law enforcement and emergency response agencies to enhance public safety and crisis preparedness. His expertise in intelligence analysis, emergency management, and tactical training makes him a sought-after authority in active threat events. He is an EMT, and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Intelligence Studies.