The Team Ten Eight Podcast
Founded in 2021 and inspired by the radio code for “in service,” the Team Ten Eight Podcast is a tribute to the extraordinary individuals who dedicate their lives to serving others.
This platform is about more than uniforms or titles—it’s about the people behind them. Through candid conversations, our guests share their unique stories and personal perspectives on life in law enforcement, emergency services, and the military.
The Team Ten Eight Podcast takes you behind the scenes and beyond the badge, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and complexities of these professions. Together, we explore the issues that matter most and celebrate the service and sacrifices made by these remarkable individuals.
Join us as we honour their journeys—simply by listening.
The Team Ten Eight Podcast
John Vintar: The Fragility of Peace
Summary
In this episode, Christian sits down with John Vintar, an author and Army officer who has served in the Canadian Armed Forces for over 30 years. The conversation revolves around Vintar's book, 'A Swamp the Size of Belgium,' which details his experiences in South Sudan. They discuss the history of Sudan and South Sudan, the challenges of peacekeeping missions, the impact on returning soldiers, and the perception of peacekeeping in Canada. Vintar shares his most fearful moment in South Sudan and the importance of history for military leaders. The episode concludes with book recommendations and contact information for Vintar.
Takeaways
- The book 'A Swamp the Size of Belgium' provides a unique perspective on the experiences of a peacekeeper in South Sudan.
- Peacekeeping missions are often invisible to the majority of Canadians, leading to a lack of understanding and appreciation for the work of peacekeepers.
- Returning from a peacekeeping mission can be challenging, and veterans may struggle to convey the full extent of their experiences.
- History plays a crucial role in shaping military leaders and providing valuable lessons for the present and future.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Background
01:29
The Book: A Swamp the Size of Belgium
04:52
The History of Sudan and South Sudan
08:27
The Invisibility of Peacekeeping Missions
10:00
The Challenges of Returning Home
11:27
The Most Fearful Moment in South Sudan
14:48
Establishing Safety and Gaining Trust
15:49
The Genesis and Objective of the UN Peacekeeping Mission
18:18
Tribal Cleansing and Violence in South Sudan
20:17
Lessons Learned from Peacekeeping Missions
24:13
Public Perception of Peacekeeping
29:36
Canada's Number One Threat
31:13
The Fragility of the World Order
37:20
The Importance of History for Military Leaders
39:54
The Role of Research in Mission Success
42:27
Top Three Must-Read Book Recommendations
45:53
Book Promotion and Contact Information
46:31
Closing Remarks and Thank You
Mortgage consulting services for those who serve.
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