US NAVY Seal Team 2 Member, Michael Getka on Mental Toughness, Team Mindset, and Life After Service

NC Shop Talk

Mike Getka isn’t just a retired Navy SEAL. He’s a walking blueprint for discipline, leadership, and showing up with no excuses—every single time. From snowshoeing in brutal New York winters to leading brutal BUD/S log PT sessions, Mike’s path wasn’t polished, but it was built by relentless grind and laser-sharp focus.

In this episode, Mike talks about growing up with Polish immigrant grit, the truth behind SEAL team brotherhood, and why the toughest training on earth isn’t just physical—it’s all in your head.

No war stories, no Hollywood drama. Just raw, unfiltered insight from a guy who’s been through it, shaped others through it, and still carries the mindset today.

"Take pride in everything that you do... When you start something, you absolutely finish it. Never quit." - Mike Getka

In This Episode:

- Mike's unexpected journey from Seabee to Navy SEAL and how a magazine article changed his life's direction

- The reality of BUD/S training, including Mike's battle with double pneumonia that forced him to restart the entire process

- How the SEAL mindset transforms challenge into opportunity, and what civilian teams can learn from this approach

- The brotherhood of SEALs - how it forms and why it's unlike any other bond

- Mike's post-military work teaching teams to unlock their full potential through SEAL-inspired training

- The evolution of the "quiet professional" and Mike's perspective on SEALs in the public eye

-  What Hollywood movies always get wrong about SEALs’ training and missions

- How mindfulness and meditation have helped Mike navigate health challenges after his intense military career

Resources Mentioned:

- Getka SEAL Mindset: https://getkasealmindset.com/

- Navy SEAL Foundation: https://www.navysealfoundation.org/

- Navy SEAL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NavySEALfoundation

- Navy SEAL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/

- Navy SEAL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/navySEALfnd

- SEAL Future Foundation (SFF): https://sealfuturefoundation.org/

- Navy SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida

Connect with Michael Getka:

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getkasealmindset

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/getkasealmindset/

- Website: https://getkasealmindset.com/

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet:

- Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/

- Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/