Hard Truth. Real Missions. Life Lessons.

The Velvet Hammer is a powerful, no-nonsense podcast that delivers hard-hitting insights into real-world missions, elite training, and global events. These stories are raw, sometimes intense, but always grounded in profound life lessons and actionable wisdom.

Hosted by David Burnell—a decorated U.S. Air Force veteran, entrepreneur, and seasoned operator—this series dives into the reality of search and rescue, urban warfare, counter-terrorism, and humanitarian aid. David’s experience spans multiple continents and critical roles:

• Founder of the Urban Warfare Center (2002–2012)
• Former Dive Rescue International Instructor
• Certified bodyguard for high-risk environments
• Anti-human trafficking and defensive tactics specialist
• Small arms expert and National Taekwondo Champion
• Executive producer of over 16 commercial films

David has also built several successful businesses from the ground up, bringing that same clarity and grit to every episode.

👉 Learn more at www.davidburnell.com