Never Quit Trying: The Strength Within You With Vietnam Veteran And NDE Survivor Jay Setchell

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Today, I sit down with Jay Setchell to explore the arc of his life—growing up on a working farm in Illinois to enlisting in the Marine Corps at seventeen, surviving near-death experiences, and eventually becoming an entrepreneur and author. 

Mr. Setchell begins by describing his upbringing, work ethic, and unexpected path into the Marine Corps. He walks me through his experience during the Vietnam era, including a unique assignment in criminal intelligence that exposed him to the darker realities of drug use, undercover operations, and the political complexities surrounding the war.

As our conversation continues, Mr. Setchell opens up about witnessing the divide between public perception and military reality. He shares how veterans returning from Vietnam were treated, how media coverage affected morale and public opinion, and why rules of engagement cost countless American lives. We also dive into broader topics such as physical fitness standards, modern military recruitment practices, DEI concerns, and societal shifts in work ethic, responsibility, and gratitude. Throughout these discussions, we reflect on generational softness, cultural privilege, and the consequences of lowering standards in institutions designed for readiness and resilience.

We then transition into Mr. Setchell’s book, The Strength Within You: It’s Always Too Soon to Quit. He explains how surviving death in the Marine Corps, enduring over seventy surgeries, and facing major life challenges shaped the principles he teaches today. His book outlines how individuals can tap into inner strength drawn from upbringing, faith, pain, and lived experience. We discuss topics such as perseverance, mindset, grit, leadership, and the importance of asking questions and learning from those ahead of you. Mr. Setchell details how he has started multiple companies, supported young adults, and embraced the belief that helping others is the surest way to grow.

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