Uploaded April 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 hours ago
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In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus brings to the table Mack Alexander, who persevered through a traumatic brain injury while serving in Special Operations as a Navy SEAL. He was medically retired after an injury while deployed in Africa.Mack initially turned to leather crafting as a therapeutic activity following his injury. His creations started with repurposing old belts from the Salvation Army into dog collars. However, his trajectory changed when a former teammate requested a belt for an upcoming deployment. Drawing from his military experience, Mack designed a belt he knew could meet the demands of an operator’s life. The quality and durability of his belts gained widespread popularity, setting the stage for the inception of Mack Belts. His commitment to quality and patriotism he sourced his materials exclusively from the United States and started Mack Belts.
At the core of every handmade Mack Belt are vintage American-made machines, some of which date back to 1940 like this Brown & Sharpe automatic screw machine below. These resilient machines, with their sturdy steel frames and timeless designs, are more than historic; they embody a time when meticulous craftsmanship was the norm, and these vintage marvels are the machines that guard the legacy of Mack Belts.
Mack embarked on a mission to become the new leader of the American belt industry. In a world dominated by mass production and dwindling quality, Mack Belts emerges as a beacon of American craftsmanship, blending heritage with innovation under the visionary leadership of Mack Alexander.
Join us this week as we delve into Mack’s inspiring journey from Navy SEAL to founder of a burgeoning belt company, rooted in patriotism and dedication to quality.
In this episode you will hear:
• If I was gonna give my brother something, it had to be perfect, because with a charge, if it’s not built correctly, somebody gets hurt or it doesn’t work. (1:16)
• The attraction of the SEAL Teams – Did you have what it takes to make it through that training. To be in a group of men like that doing what we do, was like a dream. (13:06)
• No matter where you are in life, grab a mentor, and then when you get to that place where you think you can give back, be that mentor. (17:35)
• In a [one] year time frame, I had 3 pretty bad TBIs (Traumatic Brain Injuries). (28:54)
• [Due to] post concussive Syndrome, I kinda lost my mind. (29:25)
• I got to a point where I didn’t want to live anymore because my purpose – I wasn’t ever gonna find it out there. (32:55)
• The first time you see an American service member who’s give his life for freedom, with an American flag covering his body coming home – and you’re standing watch over him – that American flag means something completely different after you’ve experienced that. (33:18)
• You gotta be grateful. I have a second chance at life, and I need to make the most of it. (34:31)
• I went from hero to zero. I went from this dude with a title and status, and here I was living in the back of my truck. (37:44)
• I try to love everybody and anybody that I can, and try to be that good example and be the change I wanna see. (38:31)
• Leathercraft felt good to me. I’m a Breacher, and high RPM machinery gets me jacked up, there’s no peace there for me. (44:50)
• I created a lot of my own problems because I was just a mess, on a bunch of pills and kinda off my rocker. (45:23)
• With $41, and I’ve hit a million dollars in revenue. (58:11)
• Everything bad I had to go through, led me to where I am right now, which is sitting in a chair in front of Markus Luttrell. (60:51)
• When I buried my old self and put on this new way, and rebuilt on the word, everything fell into place. (61:25)
• I put John 3:16 on every box. (62:37)
• God has a plan for my life. He’s put this passion in my heart & given me this skill. (66:24)
• I was redeemed by putting my faith in Christ. (66:54)
Socials:
– macksbelts.com
– macks_belts
– youtube.com/@macksbelts?app=desktop
– team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
– patreon.com/teamneverquit
Sponsors:
– Navyfederal.org
– Aura.com/TNQ
– Moink.com/TNQ
– PXG.com/TNQ
– Mackweldon.com [TNQ]
– ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]
– Robinhood.com
– TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]
– usejoymode.com [TNQ]
– Shopify.com/TNQ
– Shhtape.com [TNQ]
– Policygenius.com
—
Support the Show
patreon.com/teamneverquit
Stop data brokers from exposing your personal information. Go to our sponsor aura.com/TNQ to get a 14-day free trial and see how much of yours is being sold
In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus brings to the table Mack Alexander, who persevered through a traumatic brain injury while serving in Special Operations as a Navy SEAL. He was medically retired after an injury while deployed in Africa.Mack initially turned to leather crafting as a therapeutic activity following his injury. His creations started with repurposing old belts from the Salvation Army into dog collars. However, his trajectory changed when a former teammate requested a belt for an upcoming deployment. Drawing from his military experience, Mack designed a belt he knew could meet the demands of an operator’s life. The quality and durability of his belts gained widespread popularity, setting the stage for the inception of Mack Belts. His commitment to quality and patriotism he sourced his materials exclusively from the United States and started Mack Belts.
At the core of every handmade Mack Belt are vintage American-made machines, some of which date back to 1940 like this Brown & Sharpe automatic screw machine below. These resilient machines, with their sturdy steel frames and timeless designs, are more than historic; they embody a time when meticulous craftsmanship was the norm, and these vintage marvels are the machines that guard the legacy of Mack Belts.
Mack embarked on a mission to become the new leader of the American belt industry. In a world dominated by mass production and dwindling quality, Mack Belts emerges as a beacon of American craftsmanship, blending heritage with innovation under the visionary leadership of Mack Alexander.
Join us this week as we delve into Mack’s inspiring journey from Navy SEAL to founder of a burgeoning belt company, rooted in patriotism and dedication to quality.
In this episode you will hear:
• If I was gonna give my brother something, it had to be perfect, because with a charge, if it’s not built correctly, somebody gets hurt or it doesn’t work. (1:16)
• The attraction of the SEAL Teams – Did you have what it takes to make it through that training. To be in a group of men like that doing what we do, was like a dream. (13:06)
• No matter where you are in life, grab a mentor, and then when you get to that place where you think you can give back, be that mentor. (17:35)
• In a [one] year time frame, I had 3 pretty bad TBIs (Traumatic Brain Injuries). (28:54)
• [Due to] post concussive Syndrome, I kinda lost my mind. (29:25)
• I got to a point where I didn’t want to live anymore because my purpose – I wasn’t ever gonna find it out there. (32:55)
• The first time you see an American service member who’s give his life for freedom, with an American flag covering his body coming home – and you’re standing watch over him – that American flag means something completely different after you’ve experienced that. (33:18)
• You gotta be grateful. I have a second chance at life, and I need to make the most of it. (34:31)
• I went from hero to zero. I went from this dude with a title and status, and here I was living in the back of my truck. (37:44)
• I try to love everybody and anybody that I can, and try to be that good example and be the change I wanna see. (38:31)
• Leathercraft felt good to me. I’m a Breacher, and high RPM machinery gets me jacked up, there’s no peace there for me. (44:50)
• I created a lot of my own problems because I was just a mess, on a bunch of pills and kinda off my rocker. (45:23)
• With $41, and I’ve hit a million dollars in revenue. (58:11)
• Everything bad I had to go through, led me to where I am right now, which is sitting in a chair in front of Markus Luttrell. (60:51)
• When I buried my old self and put on this new way, and rebuilt on the word, everything fell into place. (61:25)
• I put John 3:16 on every box. (62:37)
• God has a plan for my life. He’s put this passion in my heart & given me this skill. (66:24)
• I was redeemed by putting my faith in Christ. (66:54)
Socials:
– macksbelts.com
– macks_belts
– youtube.com/@macksbelts?app=desktop
– team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
– patreon.com/teamneverquit
Sponsors:
– Navyfederal.org
– Aura.com/TNQ
– Moink.com/TNQ
– PXG.com/TNQ
– Mackweldon.com [TNQ]
– ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]
– Robinhood.com
– TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]
– usejoymode.com [TNQ]
– Shopify.com/TNQ
– Shhtape.com [TNQ]
– Policygenius.com
—
Support the Show
patreon.com/teamneverquit

![RICK PERRY: Former Texas Governor On The Future of Treatment, Saving Lives From PTSD & Addiction
Special Guest: Former Texas Governor Rick Perry
Join Marcus and Melanie on this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast for an incredible conversation with former Texas Governor Rick Perry, as we dive into everything from rodeos to revolutionary treatments for veterans.
Topics Covered:
✅ Best Bar-B-Que Spots – During a lively discussion about the best Bar-B-Que spots, the consensus was clear—Texas is home to some of the best Bar-B-Que in the world. Many memorable places were mentioned: Truth Bar-B-Que in the Heights and in Brenham. As well as Merric Meat Company in Roundtop, TX. Franklin Barbecue in Austin tops the list with its legendary brisket, while Snow’s BBQ in Lexington, helmed by the iconic pitmaster Tootsie Tomanetz, remains a Saturday morning pilgrimage for smoked meat lovers. One of Marcus’ favorite spots is Tejas Bar-B-Que and Chocolate Factory, in Tomball, TX, as well as The County Line Bar-B-Que in Waller, TX.
Governor Perry states: “Brisket and sausage – nothing else even gets close. Our Bar-B-Que is the best in the world.” But one thing is certain—Texans take their Bar-B-Que as seriously as their state pride.
✅ How Marcus & Governor Perry Met – A story of friendship, leadership, and shared purpose.
✅ Morgan Luttrell’s Helicopter Crash – The harrowing experience of Marcus’ twin brother, Navy SEAL Morgan Luttrell.
✅ Ibogaine Treatment – A step-by-step breakdown of this groundbreaking therapy for PTSD and TBI.
✅ Stanford Study on Ibogaine – The latest research and findings on this alternative treatment.
✅ Texas Ibogaine Initiative – Governor Perry’s goals to bring this life-changing treatment to Texas.
✅ Marcus & Amber Capone’s Mission – How they’re saving lives by providing funding to help over 1,000 veterans seeking Ibogaine therapy.
✅ Unbelievable Survival Story – A former vet from the third Ranger Battalion had a jump accident where his parachute didn’t open, leading to a TBI for 17 years — until he found hope with Ambio and Ibogaine treatment.
Don’t miss this powerful conversation about healing, resilience, and the future of treatment for our veterans.
In This Episode You Will Hear:
• I made that fateful statement: “Hey if you’re ever through Austin, come by and see us.” Fat chance you’re gonna get into the Governor’s mansion, right? (10:48)
• As we make progress on getting Ibogaine off of schedule 1 and through clinical trials, that facilities will have Ibogaine available to treat traumatic brain injuries. (21:14)
• There is a way to regenerate the brain. (23:22)
• If you don’t want to quit, generally speaking, you’re not gonna. (31:42)
• Ibogaine. 1 treatment. Within 48 hours the desire is gone. The withdrawals – gone. (33:32)
• Ibogaine is on schedule 1. Schedule 1 is addictive, and that is has no medical purpose. (35:56)
• The best part about this is that you can’t lie t it. (36:25)
• I tell people, “Be curious, lean into this.” (40:42)
• I think there are a lot of people who are starting clinics. Go somewhere reputable. Do your homework. Make sure there’s coaching before. (59:26)
• We spend billions of dollars in this state to treat people who have mental health issues. (61:39)
• There’s no reason why the state legislature wouldn’t go, you know what? We need to make this available. (64:57)
• I think that use of Ibogaine is another one that could have a massively powerful, positive effect on this country – I think even in the world. (69:51)
• For the naysayers and those who still are not believers, we’re gonna prove it to you. (71:00)
Socials:
– IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13
– https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit
Sponsors:
– strawberry.me/TNQ
– shipsticks.com/TNQ
– Navyfederal.org
– Robinhood.com/gold
– stopboxusa.com {TNQ}
– ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ]
– kalshi.com/TNQ
– PXG.com/TNQ
– joinbilt.com/TNQ
– Tonal.com [TNQ]
– greenlight.com/TNQ
– PDSDebt.com/TNQ
– drinkAG1.com/TNQ
– Shadyrays.com [TNQ]
– qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ]
– Hims.com/TNQ
– Shopify.com/TNQ
– Aura.com/TNQ
– Moink.com/TNQ
– Policygenius.com
– TAKELEAN.com [TNQ]
– usejoymode.com [TNQ]
– Shhtape.com [TNQ] RICK PERRY: Former Texas Governor On The Future of Treatment, Saving Lives From PTSD & Addiction](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/zivcfKAgs1I/mqdefault.jpg)
![ALAN MACK: Decorated Night Stalker - Evading Enemy Fire, Operation Red Wing, Operation Anaconda
Living the Dream, Facing the Nightmare: An Interview with Alan C. Mack
This week’s Team Never Quit guest is a decorated war hero and an extraordinary pilot whose military career spanned nearly 36 years, including 17 years in Army Special Operations. Alan C. Mack, a retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5), shares his incredible journey from a young man with a passion for flying to a highly respected leader in some of the most elite units of the U.S. military.
Alan’s expertise and leadership saw him involved in numerous high-stakes operations, many still classified. One of the most notable missions he discusses is the Battle of Takur Ghar, also known as the Battle of Roberts Ridge, during Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan. Alan’s bravery and skill under fire, including crash-landing a helicopter and attempting multiple rescue missions under heavy enemy fire, highlight his exceptional courage.
Alan’s distinguished service has earned him numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, three Bronze Stars, ten Air Medals (one with a Valor device), and many more. His impressive flight record includes over 6,700 flight hours, with more than 3,200 hours under Night Vision Goggles.
After retiring from the military, Alan continued to serve his community. He now works as the Deputy Commissioner of Emergency Services for Orange County, New York, a role that he appreciates for its peaceful nature compared to his military experiences.
Alan’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Despite the adversities and challenges faced in combat, his journey is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome and find meaning in serving others. His life is an inspiration, showing that with determination and courage, it’s possible to live out your dreams while also facing and conquering the nightmares.
This episode will leave you both inspired and reflective.In This Episode You Will Hear:
• The biggest cause of an air refueling incident is the grohe – it’s a big hose – you are actually only 19’ from rotors to tanker. (26:26)
• During air refueling You’re doing 110-120mph over the water. (27:00)
• I’ve done air refueling as low as 100’ off the coast of Iraq. (27:08)
• I get a missile fired at me so now I drop down between buildings. I’m down on the rooftops and you know what’s in front of me? Kites. Hundreds and hundreds of kites. (34:10)
• The older Chinook helicopter Delta models just had handheld maps. (43:34)
• During Operation Red Wings I sat down with the A10’s and the AC130’s with my map and the imagery and said “I need you to either suppress or creative a diversion that’s so big no one could help but look. (50:15)
• Crew Chiefs sometimes see things that aren’t there (and I hate to say it that way) but sometimes they’ll see lights of a car and think they’re seeing signal light signals. (53:28)
• Sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good. (55:00)
• My youngest son was a Night Stalker Flight Engineer, and my oldest son is a Navy F18 wizzo (back seater) He’s a Goose. (58:05)
• I did 17 years with the Night Stalkers, plus about 10 years of deployment. (59:03)
• Every aircraft munition has a probable kill ratio. A surface to air missile has a “PK” of 75%, meaning that if they fired at you, you have a 75% chance of killing you. The ground has a 100% PK. (64:23)
• I’ve got about 3,500, maybe 4,000 hours of night vision time, which is a lot. (67:51)
• Anaconda was a conventional operation, such as Red Wings. There’s no soft component to it. (68:57)
• We had 4 or 5 people on the aircraft tail, and we are diving at about 150, [one of our men that fell out but is tethered] while they’re shooting at us and his toes are tickling the trees. The crew chief is returning fire with an M60 machine gun. He looks over and pulls our guy up, and I learned we had lost Neil [another guy] and decided we’ve gotta go back. So I turned inbound and climbed back up and the controls stopped moving. Imagine you pulled the keys out of your car. That’s what it’s like with no hydraulics. So I’m like “Guys… we’re done,” as in “We’re going to die.” (79:03)
• In the spirit of never quit, there’s a saying: ”Never quit flying the aircraft.” (83:22)
• Everything I do in life, I associate with movies I’ve seen. (88:12) ALAN MACK: Decorated Night Stalker - Evading Enemy Fire, Operation Red Wing, Operation Anaconda](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/zp7mrorVAMw/mqdefault.jpg)
