Disasters and wars often reveal shocking deficiencies in government responses. But what happens when official help fails to arrive? In a recent episode of The Brian Nichols Show, host Brian Nichols has an eye-opening conversation with Bryan Stern, founder of Project Dynamo. This nonprofit rapidly deploys teams of special forces veterans to save lives when governments fail to respond in crises.
Project Dynamo's Origins
Stern launched Dynamo in August 2021, in the wake of the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal. “We work with the government isn't either because they left like in Afghanistan, or if they're never going to come like Ukraine...we call it the grey space. And that's where we work. And the best way to define it is where the government is not,” he explains.
Maui Wildfires - A Case Study in Preparedness
Nowhere was this gap more evident than Dynamo’s recent rescue efforts amid devastating Hawaiian wildfires. “Dynamo got boots on the ground to start rescuing people and delivering aid just 16-17 hours after deciding to help. Yet the government took 6+ days to arrive and provide assistance,” host Brian Nichols revealed.
Stern argues this lagging response merits serious investigation to prevent future loss of life. He contrasts Dynamo’s agility to past American ingenuity, asking “If we could put a man on the moon decades ago without modern technology, why can’t we swiftly save lives today?”
Examining the cost of unpreparedness, Stern adds: “When we talk about Maui, there needs to be a 911 commission style inquiry as to what went right and what went wrong.”
Inside Dynamo's Rescue Missions
From securing escape for Americans left behind after the Afghanistan withdrawal to navigating the Russian prison system to free tortured hostages, Stern recounts dramatic stories from Dynamo's real-world missions. His teams combine special forces veterans and intelligence community operatives for rapid response in the world's most dangerous places.
Dependence on Public Support But Stern warns Dynamo cannot continue their vital work without public backing. “We need financial help. We just do. And if we don't do it, the government will not do it. I assure you and our citizens will die,” he stresses.
A Call to Action
Brian and Bryan’s appeal is clear - while lives hang in the balance, concerned citizens cannot simply stand by. “I'm not going to watch this. I'm not going to watch this on TV,” Stern declares.
You can join Project Dynamo’s lifesaving mission by donating, sharing their story, and urging leaders to properly investigate and prevent future catastrophe. Together, we can fill the gaps when official help fails to arrive.
