We're sunsetting PodQuest on 2025-07-28. Thank you for your support!
Export Podcast Subscriptions
cover of episode Operation Pineapple Express Used Signal to Evacuate Afghan Allies

Operation Pineapple Express Used Signal to Evacuate Afghan Allies

2025/6/18
logo of podcast The Brave Technologist

The Brave Technologist

AI Chapters Transcript
Chapters
Scott Mann's journey from a small town in Arkansas to becoming a Green Beret is highlighted, emphasizing his inspiration from a Green Beret he met at age 14 and his subsequent two decades of service in Colombia and Afghanistan.
  • Scott Mann grew up in Mount Ida, Arkansas.
  • A chance encounter with a Green Beret at 14 inspired him to join the military.
  • He served nearly two decades as a Green Beret, with deployments in Colombia and Afghanistan.
  • After leaving the military in 2013, he transitioned into storytelling and public speaking.

Shownotes Transcript

Scott Mann, Ret. U.S. Army Green Beret and Founder of Task Force Pineapple, shares his journey from a Special Forces soldier to a storyteller and actor. He detailed his time as a Green Beret who helped form Task Force Pineapple,  a group of veterans who used technology to coordinate the evacuation of Afghan allies during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021. Key Takeaways: 

The role of biometric data collection in US Army missions and the Global War on Terror

How their unprecedented use of the consumer app, Signal, became a go-to resource for natural disaster management and special operations

The critical role of technology and veteran networks in crisis situations

His new creative venture: Last Out - an award winning play his touring on stages across the country to provide healing to Veterans and their Families

Guest Bio: Scott Mann) is a former U.S. Army Green Beret with tours in Colombia, Peru, and Afghanistan. He’s the founder of Task Force Pineapple, a 501(c)(3) supporting Veterans and Afghan Allies, and the author of Operation Pineapple Express, a New York Times Best Seller. Scott also wrote Nobody is Coming to Save You, a guide to building trust and human connection in divided times. He also hosts The Scott Mann Podcast and is the playwright and star of Last Out: Elegy of a Green Beret, an award-winning play honoring the sacrifices of our military community.

About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast) is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin) Produced by: Sam Laliberte)