I Survived BUDS Training with John Collins

In this episode of The Suffering Podcast, Navy SEAL veteran John Collins shares his extraordinary journey through BUDS (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL) training and beyond. Known for its relentless physical and mental challenges, BUDS training pushed John to his limits, forging resilience, discipline, and mental toughness that shaped his life. John delves into the high-pressure moments and intense suffering that are an inevitable part of SEAL training, explaining how embracing hardship created an unbreakable mindset. He also opens up about life after the SEAL Teams, the unique bond with his wife that helped him transition to civilian life, and the strength needed to navigate family and personal relationships after years of high-stakes missions. His insights into the SEAL mentality—built on pain, camaraderie, and a relentless willpower—serve as an inspiration for anyone facing their own struggles.

Throughout the conversation, John highlights key lessons learned from his SEAL career and BUDS training, emphasizing the importance of grit, resilience, and finding new purpose. Now a devoted family man and mentor, John shares how the skills gained from Navy SEAL training continue to shape his daily life, from teaching others at the range to raising his children. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and mental fortitude in overcoming adversity and adapting to new challenges. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in Navy SEAL stories, mental resilience, and personal growth, offering rare insight into the inner world of a Navy SEAL who has chosen to inspire others with his hard-won lessons on strength, mindset, and never giving up.

John Collins is a Navy SEAL veteran. He was born and raised in Sykesville MD. The oldest of 3. Growing up, he played football, lacrosse and he was a wrestler. He graduated from Glenelg High School in 2003 and joined the Navy on October 31, 2006. He served for 12 years. He was in 6 BUD/S classes. He went through first phase 4 times and has been through 2 1/2 hell weeks. He graduated SQT March 2nd, 2012 and went to SEAL Team 7. He did 2 deployments there before he went to the K9 unit as an instructor, where he finished out his career. After getting out of the Navy in 2018, he was hired as a combat skills instructor, where he taught Navy EOD technicians and their support personnel how to shoot, move and communicate. He recently was hired as the safety director for the District Council of Ironworkers and the California Ironworker Employers Council. He still teaches firearm instruction for anyone interested in learning or developing their tactical proficiency. He can be found on Instagram @shooteatandlift. He lives in San Diego with his wife and 3 children.

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