Key Takeaways:
• A Marine colonel appeared on a podcast with his brother.
• The show pushed hateful ideas and political violence.
• Hosts joked about killing top government officials.
• The military has not publicly addressed the colonel’s role.
• Backlash led the brother to step away from the podcast.
What Happened on the Siverts Podcast?
Understanding the Siverts Podcast Appearance
In March 2023, Colonel Thomas M. Siverts joined a 40-minute episode of the Siverts podcast. His younger brother, Scott Siverts, co-hosts the show with Matt Wakulik. The discussion focused on his Marine Corps career. However, the podcast itself promotes antisemitism, white supremacy, and calls for violence.
Why the Siverts Podcast Caused Alarm
First, the show featured a segment that seemed to call for the execution of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. In late 2024, Wakulik and Scott graded President Trump’s cabinet picks by joking about how many bullets they’d use. When Hegseth’s name came up, Wakulik laughed, “Six bullets, and one more for good measure.” Scott Siverts joined in the laughter.
Who Are the Hosts Behind the Podcast?
Scott Siverts served in the Marine Corps before managing a bar in Pittsburgh. He co-founded the Berm Pit podcast, where he talks about guns, politics, and conspiracies. Matt Wakulik, a self-proclaimed militia leader, has run for sheriff and carries extremist symbols. Together, they spread antisemitic views and threats of violence.
Controversial Discussion About Violence
Moreover, the podcast did not stop at Hegseth. Wakulik named top officials from Trump’s team — like Susie Wiles and Marco Rubio — and said they deserved execution. He even targeted health chief Robert F. Kennedy Jr., CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and others. Only Tom Homan, known for strict immigration policies, would be spared, Wakulik claimed.
The episode about Hegseth also attacked his support for Israel. Siverts chimed in with a biblical reference: “You can’t serve two masters.” This line hints at an antisemitic trope about dual loyalty.
Military Reaction and Fallout
A communications officer for the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit listened live and approved Colonel Siverts’ March 2023 interview. At that time, he led the unit at Camp Pendleton. Yet, the Joint Staff has not confirmed his role or commented on his appearance. Colonel Siverts did not deny his involvement when asked; he simply hung up.
In the wake of public outrage, Scott Siverts lost his bar manager job. He faced calls to remove the violent episode. He planned to scrub all political content and sell the podcast to active-duty Marines. He feared legal liability if someone acted on the podcast’s threats.
Meanwhile, Colonel Siverts told his brother to keep the episode online. He defended free speech and said he did not care about the backlash. He stressed that he served his country to protect such freedoms.
Future of the Podcast and Response
Since June 5, the Berm Pit has not released any new episodes. Scott Siverts claims he will distance the show from politics. He wants to pass it on and end the controversy. Colonel Siverts also appears on other podcasts. In August 2024, he spoke on “4 Years a Slave,” describing his work on the Joint Staff at the Pentagon. He praised the unit’s long-term strategic plans and global missions.
Despite the podcast’s extremist episodes, Colonel Siverts has a decorated record. He earned a Legion of Merit for leading joint exercises in Southeast Asia. His unit built trust with allies in the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore.
However, the public now questions how a high-ranking officer could join a show that promotes hate. Many wonder if his silence means he agrees with the violent content.
Lessons and Moving Forward
This case shows how public figures can face fallout for private actions online. Even retired service members or active officers risk damage to their reputation. Podcasts that mix politics and extremism can draw major backlash. Therefore, military personnel must weigh their words carefully, especially when they appear in published media.
In addition, social media campaigns and job actions can force hosts to rethink their platform’s direction. The Berm Pit’s planned sale and content shift highlight how pressure can lead to change.
Conclusion
The Siverts podcast controversy reveals a clash between free speech and public responsibility. Colonel Siverts’ appearance on a show promoting hate raises serious questions. Although he defends his right to share his story, many feel he crossed a line. As the podcast fades and hosts plan new paths, the debate over military voices in public media continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Colonel Siverts discuss on the podcast?
He talked about his Marine Corps career but did not address politics in his segment.
Why did the podcast draw criticism?
Hosts promoted antisemitism and joked about executing government officials.
Has the military punished Colonel Siverts?
So far, the Pentagon and Joint Staff have not publicly commented or taken action.
What will happen to the podcast now?
Scott Siverts plans to remove political content and transfer ownership to other Marines.