Adam White | Army Counterintelligence Agent | Ep. 78 

Adam was my neighbor for over 3 years. He’s a great guy who knows everyone in the neighborhood. I always felt safe with him in the building knowing he would never let anything bad happen. He is smart, friendly and you could often find him on the stoop playing music chatting with with everyone who passed by. He also carried up all my heavy packages which meant the world to me! Anyone who knows Adam knows his charismatic personality and inclusivity. He made me feel welcome from day one. I miss having him so close by!

I’ve known Adam for 25 years. We grew up and went to high school together, played on multiple teams together over the years, and both ended up in the same line of work in the military - Adam in the Army, me in Naval Special Warfare. I feel I have a uniquely intimate perspective on Adam as a person, and how that relates professionally to everything he said, and the way he conveyed it, in this podcast. From the time I met Adam, he was literally a “larger than life” personality to me. He was about 6’4”, an absolute beast athletically and probably the most outwardly confident kid I’d ever known in my young life. But unlike many kids with similar gifts at that age, Adam was never mean-spirited or pompous in any way. Rather he was so nice and so genuine in his interactions, that when you first met him, you’d almost think he was setting you up for an ambush. But the ambush never came. What you learned instead was that this kid was so intensely thoughtful and calculated in everything he said and did, that you literally had to prepare yourself for interactions with him, because you didn’t want to let him down. He was a leader, a motivator and a comedian on the field and in the classroom. He always challenged everyone around him to be better - friends, teammates, coaches and teachers alike. He treated everyone the same - with respect, and with high expectations. These qualities were perfectly suited for his career in Human Intelligence, and his military success is unquestionable proof of that. Adam and I have spoken extensively about HUMINT over the years. Most things we’ve agreed about, others we’ve disagreed on the ways and means of achieving certain results (more likely an Army/Navy thing than a true difference of tactical, operational or strategic beliefs). But the two things we agreed upon most is #1. Never underestimate anyone. We’ve lamented over our strategies in the Middle East, North Africa and Asia, the way conventional and special forces alike often underestimate and misunderstand our friends and adversaries from different cultures, and how we can both use and help those assets to serve our country’s interests. Adam has an innate ability to read and understand people and situations and then quickly formulate opinions and strategies to deal with them tactfully and precisely, always achieving results and causing minimal damage. This leads me to the second thing we always agreed about, and that is the absolute necessity for skilled HUMINT in every aspect of human life - from military conflicts, to national strategy, to business and financial transactions, to everyday relationships with friends and family. Adam understands that every person - be it the President of the United States, a Pashtun Imam in Afghanistan, a low-level street gang member in South America, or your own spouse - is an individual that requires your understanding, empathy and thoughtful personal analysis if any agreement or goal is to be achieved with or through them. Every military HUMINTer and government agent would do well to understand this. Adam has been executing it effortlessly since the 9th grade. And as for anyone in the comments accusing Adam of circumlocutions - I challenge you to sit down on camera and tell your life story inside of 30 minutes without repeating yourself or getting off track. In fact, I guarantee most of us would never even have the guts to try (nor would we be interesting enough for anyone to ask). Just as he did in his story about Mahmoudi, Adam stuck his neck out and took a big chance by coming on this podcast and telling his story. There’s no way to truly make it anywhere in this world without being willing to do that, and I commend him for it. Nihil ausi, nihil acquiritur. God bless, brother.

This is one of my favourite episodes of my favourite podcast. It's an amazing time we live in when we get to hear stories like this. Massive appreciation for your work and also for sharing your story. It's like a story from an incredible action movie. Brilliant stuff! Thanks Adam!

Adam used to be my neighbor and as I am sure you can imagine after watching this video, I’ve never felt more safe in an apt in NYC. Adam is a wealth of knowledge. He will insert random facts and figures covering literally any and all topics while throwing back a glass of whiskey. Needless-to-say, I have always been a fan. I am not surprised this interview is fascinating, covering subjects most people have so little understanding of with such detail and refreshing authenticity. Bravo!

What a fascinating life story. I've had the pleasure of hearing some of Adam's story in person, and it never ceases to amaze me the kind of courage and gut instinct it takes to serve and survive overseas during wartime. These kinds of skills are sadly too often absent in both civilian and professional life, and I have always believed that every company in corporate America should hire U.S. veterans. I am happy to report that Adam is just as committed to his local community and neighbors here in New York City as he was to his compatriots in the U.S. Army. As a neighbor, he would also go above and beyond for you. Bravo, Adam, and thank you for your service!

Adam is truly an alley for so many. From his country to his kinship, this man is loyal. The first time we met, I immediately felt a presence of security in comfort. I really appreciate the way Adam is able to connect with people from all walks of life genuinely. Not many can say that bc most have pre judgments and conceived notions. None of which he has ever displayed to one person in my eyes. That’s a quality you are born with and he continues to go out into the world to affect change. You’re the best sir and thank you a always for your service and love.

I had the privilege to work with Adam White as my supervisor and I got extremely surprised of his professionalism and knowledge. The ability that He shown it’s really admirable and encouraging to keep myself improving… leadership soft skills team play things that you rarely see in just one person.

@adamkelligrew is a straight legend. One of the best teamhouse podcast episodes I’ve personally heard. He divulged a ton of great insights on the world of army intelligence, specifically the counterintelligence division. I’ve had a difficult time finding great content on military intelligence - but since listening to Adam’s episode I’ve become a fan of the podcast over all. Would like to see Adam on for a second interview as well. MUST LISTEN for anyone considering military intelligence or at least curious to what the career path consists of.

This is the best RU-vid story time interview I’ve ever seen.

Amazing talk Adam, you were the most kind person my colleagues and I get to know back in Baghdad/ green zone, who has deep understanding and respect for Iraqis and their culture and cares for their life, we so proud of you and wish you the best in life .

Adam and I served together in the mountains of Afghanistan. He joined my team a little late in the tour and he was a big personality to take in at first. In little time at all, it was apparent that I was dealing with a different caliber dude than I was used to. We had a lot of rough times up there but we banded together and we’re thick as thieves, rolling up/dropping some baddies along the way. To this day, still in the field and 13 years later, I haven’t come close to encountering someone with Adam’s potential. He learned Languages in what seemed like hours, immediately developed rapport with anyone he encountered, and earned more admiration from me personally than anyone else I’ve worked with thus far. He truly has a gift with words, is tough as nails and is as loyal and genuine as a broken mustang true to one rider. On top of that, he kept me from putting a worthless teammate’s blood in the snow as the hot-head I was at the time. It wasn’t all gravy, but after 6 deployments, still my favorite. Adam, one day we’ll get together and relive the glory days. I’m so proud of you brother! Hell of an entertaining interview.

I applaud Adam for being on this podcast. While a lot of this topic isn’t in my personal wheelhouse, I’ve always had an interest albeit through the depictions made by Hollywood (which I know is somewhat make believe). I met Adam about three years ago. Since then, I’ve seen Adam in various settings. The common denominator was that he is all inclusive of everyone no matter how tall you were, how much money you did or did not make, what your skin tones are, what your sexual preferences are, whether you’re introverted or extroverted, how you grew up, where you lived, etc. It’s hard to see the depth of a person through the lens of a podcast especially when the interview had a specific topic. Adam had lots to share. There’s going to be those of you that liked it and there are some of you that will not. At the end of the day, we all bring different things to the table. Adam has an amazing sense of adventure, life, energy, and authenticity which is the depth that goes beyond this interview. Adam has a way of being able to read a room, read a person, and respond appropriately. He is very strategic in his approach whether personal or professional. When I think of Adam, I think of this quote from Oscar Wilde: “Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.” I’m continuously inspired by what he does and what he stands for. His contributions to the country is quite admirable and wish him well in his future endeavors.

One of the most dynamic people I’ve ever met.

*Man, this was an AMAZING sit down interview. I wish the cameras would pan out & show the entire room with these three having a conversation with each other, instead of the three screens, which makes it look weird sometimes since you cannot tell who anyone is looking at. I know this video is YEARS old and The Team House guys have made the video conversations look a lot better.* *Adam White made this interview great. You can tell he's a down to Earth good man & he actually values human life and went out of his way to sometimes stop civilians from being killed or innocent people. I wish there were more interviews & shows with Adam White... I haven't been able to find ANY other interviews with Adam. Has anyone else?*

Great interview. From personal experience I can attest that Adam is an asset to whatever he’s involved with and anything he puts his mind to. As an officer in the Navy, he’s been helpful to me and others breaking down language and cultural barriers. As an elected official, I’ve seen first hand his ability to connect with people from all walked of life, from Massachusetts to Iowa, and everywhere in between. He’s committed to the task at hand and continuously goes above and beyond the call. Most importantly, he’s a good friend who goes out of his way to help those most in need. Great job brother

I didn’t even know this MOS existed before I found this interview, and no joke after watching it several times over, I decided to enlist into the Army. I’m not kidding. Never thought of it once, watched this interview, and decided to enlist. Adam is a special cat (in the most positive ways). He has a combination of intelligence, charisma, and toughness that ooze out of him, and you can see why he was a perfect fit for CI. Inspiring. As a person who sees parts of myself in him in terms of being the kind of guy that wants to “be where the party’s at” and do “parkour” if it needs to happen, I figured I found a needle in a hay stack. Also, the way he goes off on tangents is hilarious. I do the exact same thing and honestly love that part of myself.

Cool guy. Hilarious and very smart. 😅

Adam is a very special human. He puts 110% into everything he does and is the ultimate combination of smart, thoughtful, hilarious and trustworthy. His breadth of life experience gives him a unique perspective that will captivate you for hours (much like this interview) and to know him is to love him.

Got the opportunity to send a few messages back and forth with Adam. Great guy, great stories, great advice. This absolutely helped me, this is what put intelligence jobs on the map for me. One of my favorite Team House episodes for sure and I’d love to lee him back on the show, certainly has some of the best stories related to the intel world and tell those stories in a gripping and entertaining manner, one of the best guests for sure.

I have never felt as though I could sit through a 3 hour interview without a good portion of it being fluff. The entirety was engaging and informational. Adam is an amazing guest to have...I mean what a great speaker/explainer. Ready for a round 2. Time to watch some more! You guys rock!

Team House... Get this guy back on! I have to say this podcast almost got me to quit my job and try and jump into Army CI (Honestly, still thinking about it.) His authenticity and openness are such important themes to express to those ignorant of the wide variety of personalities that compose our military and government. I try to share this podcast with whomever will listen just to try and get across what I've had the luck of understanding my whole life via my dad (ex- UKSF guy): Diversity and understanding wins wars, my dudes. And this guy fucking GETS IT better than most. I hope to drink a beer and smoke a blunt with you someday, Adam!

Need another episode with Adam relative to his AF deployment. Guy is an absolute legend.

Very good interview! Adam clearly knows what he is talking about and i respect his ability to talk about real events without going too far. Very humble person and a great listen for anyone looking to gain insight into that world!

You can search high and low and you will not find anyone as raw as Adam in the intelligence community. I always had the burn to transition into the community but it’s really hard finding people willing to guide you in that direction. He only spoke about one part of his combat experience and it was 3.5 hours of gold. Had me glued to my seat wanting more. It’s crazy that the 3.5 hours was still not enough. You can tell from the video that Adam is the person that everyone wants to serve with. We need the second video!

I’m the girl he was dating who brought him to Columbia - and I’m so proud of you, Ad. Really. Your authenticity is courageous, and you’ve just got so much heart. I see you, and just have to give props to your incredible Mama who passed her magnanimous heart down to you - no doubt. The way you care about people is really conveyed here, which I think is the most intelligent part about you. Loved the “Sorry Mom” at the end. She is a REAL one - as are you. Keep at it. Your voice is so important. I’m already looking forward to the Afghan episode, and for you to write. that. book.

Get Adam a book deal already!!! He’s so insightful and passionate.

Incredible interview, thank you for having him on. Adam is engaging and intelligent with a wonderful aptitude for storytelling. This analysis and breakdown is awesome to listen to!

Adam is my spirit animal

Adam is one of a kind, he’s a hero with a special mind. And he paints a picture so well, you feel like you’re there at the moment. Whoever spent time in the Middle East, knows what he’s talking about. Much respect , IDF.

Adam is one of my go to guys in NYC. I can take this guy anywhere. He’s good in the hood and giant at dinner parties, social gathering. I’m usually by myself unless I’m with company like Adam. Great interview my friend. This is Adam. Always genuine. 💪🏾💪🏾🙌🏽🙌🏽

I love the fact that he started the post by saying as salamu alaykum ❤️

This was 100% Adam--rapid, raw, raging intelligence. Adam is like a little brother to me; I've known him since his years at BC High. I can verify that all of his stories are accurate to a "T" from the high school football to frat fight. He would visit me and the kids between tours and share some stories as well. I used to tutor him. Imagine this 6'4" adolescent with a 150 IQ and raging ADHD who loathed sitting to do school work but loved to learn. I'm 10 inches and IQ points shy of his marks, but I was also the only guy he would work with, so I became part of the family. My only regret is not getting to see him very often because he's in NYC now. The last time we got together, he toured me, my then 12-yr old daughter, and my then girlfriend/current wife around town. Adam is able to discuss history, architecture, and natural history one minute and the next minute he's speaking German to his awesome dog, Sugar, and taking us to the best ice cream spots in Manhattan. Adam is a rush of intellectual adrenaline. Loved the podcast! I love Adam! I hope to be seeing more of both!

Super interesting episode- really open minded and authentic. Puts a special perspective to what was thought as a super clandestine role.

If you don’t like this, you just don’t understand. This is a masterpiece.

Even though the audio sucked and this dude's politics are way left...this was the BEST Team House Podcast to date! Cant wait for part 2.

An intelligent man! Kind to speak with over social media. Thank you Adam for the insight!

What a great interview! I love the diction Adam speaks with and how he gave everyone a look into CI especially because there’s not a whole lot of information about CI. Hearing this interview is inspirational! What a cool story. Thank you for your service. You sound like a very intelligent and all round cool dude! I hope there’s another episode with Adam.

This was a very cool and intriguing interview that you guys did. This is my first time coming across your podcast. Counter intelligence is really short handed these days from what I hear. Anyway, big props to y'all for getting the word out. -From a random civillian in Southern Oregon.

"Shouts out to Big Jim my dad" lol! That part killed me😂 But in all seriousness Adam has been nothing but a source of love and support in many of my endeavors as a musician and for that I am ever grateful.

Sounds like a real chad

I love how he drove the conversation, very CI

Wow I love this interview. Adam is a dawg! How can I see the bonus segment?

THIS RIGHT HERE HITS HOME !! ADAM IS SUCH A GREAT GUY, FRIEND, AND EVEN BETTER BROTHER! This was amazing to watch and to know what hes done for the country and myself. He a true superhero and knowledgable. love u adam!! i will always have your back

This interview shows and tells sooooo many things. Very insightful helpful and shocking as well Adam is beyond his years when it comes to intelligence and a certified patriot. Keep going man loved this 💋💜🧚🏾‍♀️

That’s the real deal! Awesome Job brother. I know Adam for many years & I’m very proud of him! Keep up the good work bud. Thanks for your service and sacrifice! 🇺🇸

How can 3.5 hours long not be enough? Got a new patron out of me. Can't wait for the next one!

What a fascinating story about a good guy from the right side of the tracks, who turned himself into Jason Bourne, yet with style, empathy, a since of satirical humor, and a wicked left cross. Good stuff.

Dude needs to write a book. He’s got a lot to say.

“If you’re not doing poppers at 4:38 in the morning at a gay club on the lower east side, then you’ve missed the entire point of what it is to be a HUMINTer” - Adam White. Goddamn, I’m proud to call this man a friend.

This intetview was very insightful, i know Adam from my store and he is a very nice and honest person.

LONG STORY SHORT?????!!!!! Really???? F that! We want… scratch that we CRAVE the long story!!!! Bring Adam back for more. NOW! So he can finally tell us the long story about Afghanistan. Thank you so so much Adam, for doing this show and setting the record straight about Army counter intelligence. I had no idea!

Within the first conversation I could tell this guy is super intelligent, rambler, but the smartest ones typically are.

Adam is very entertaining to listen to, at the very least! I could probably listen to him tell stories about his experiences overseas for another 3.5 hours. Great episode!

Adam great job, I’m so proud of you. The rambling is authentic though so no apologies. You want us as the viewer to know you and having a connection. I feel that makes us more receptive to the information you give us. I really enjoyed this.

I have always been so impressed with your ability to understand and communicate in such a wide variety of social settings. I have VERY few friends I’d feel comfortable bringing into any social situation holidays with family, a work event, crashing a gathering of girl friends, hanging with my gay male friends watching Ru Paul’s Drag race, literally anything - I could drop you in and you’d make a positive splash. Miss ya lots!!!

Thanks Adam! Irish Catholic Vietnam Vet here. Great job.

Hey Adam!! What an incredible story you had to share. I am to be following your footsteps as CI for the army, I am nervous and am eager for all the things to learn. Watching your interview has only enhanced my exhilaration. I’ve shown my friends and family your story and they all have been supportive and are now calling me “007” 😂. I look forward to my future thanks to you and will be thinking of this interview when I am blasting “Party in the USA” to irritate the next terrorist threat. ❤😂

I agree with Adam lol he’s a hippie gangsta in a good way

I really enjoyed this dude!!!

Adam had a great story to tell and definitely gives inspiration to people trying to get into the field. Rambling or not, still one of the best TH episodes yet.

You can tell he is having a hard time explaining the story without telling classified information

This was a great interview. I loved listening to this heart felt story from a real straight shooter, he is the real deal. I really hope to see Adam back for another episode. it would be interesting to hear other stories of his experiences in the field. great channel and great guest guys!!

My unit ran convoy ops taking dudes from Bucca to Buehring in 08.

The living legend. NYC’s bad boy, good man.

Adam white is pretty fucking cool man

That map bit was fucking hilarious

I met Adam briefly when he was CI. I was just joining the military about to leave AIT. He was the one who told me about the program and a few years down the road I applied and was accepted. I’m glad he was the catalyst to start my CI military career.

Hey that's my friend...... I'm so proud of you Adam and honored to call you a friend.

I've been doing a lot of research about, with your stories I can contrast many things. Thank you so much.

What people that comment with negativity haven't been in the overseas picture and the vet talk hang out. Intel guys are a different breed of people that not alot of people get ISA.

It’s like John LeCarre with F bombs.

The CI version of Dave Portnoy. I say that as a compliment. Great episode.

I had the pleasure of working with Whitey during the 2020 elections. Somehow, a Boston-born NYC native wearing suspenders and a houndstooth jacket was able to immediately connect with voters in the exurbs of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. I can't imagine anybody else who could win over persuadable voters, give a rousing speech to a caucus crowd in a packed gym, and fill in as a bouncer when we had trouble on the rope line. That's not a talent stack you normally see in politics but it's a great example of why there's nobody quite like Adam White.

Good times I was in 4BCT at the same time on Prosperity, started in 704th the moved to 1-12 after the deployment later 2-7, thanks for the memories

Hahaha. Good Episode. Adam was definitely right when he said he tells stories like an arab or south asian.

adam the only one i trust with me int he club or any situations. i can see why the president understands as well. hes the safest person ever . Lets not start how good his dog is. super trained just like adam in combat and super on point

Aretha? Etta? This man has impeccable taste in black female singers. Second to none. He is also the definition of "All over the Road", I'm exhausted after this ramble but I couldn't stop listening and thinking, better him than me. Even though I have a similar skill when it comes to having a built in B.S. detector, I'm glad my life is not dependent on that skill. BTW, almost everyone on T.V. is lying, actors, news and politicians are lying constantly, turn off the sound and watch them, you'll get great at spotting lying. Then turn that crap off and go outside and do something, T.V. is mind poison.

Great show! Very interesting, really enjoyed how Adam told his story.

Really enjoyed this one. Compelling stories that kept me tuned in and made me want to learn more about HUMINT. Dropped some knowledge bombs as well - "I'll have what he's having"

Really cool video. Very insightful. Cool opportunity to learn about a world that most people don't know a lot about. Adam is obviously very passionate about his profession. He has a large wealth/store of knowledge and trade craft skills. Hats off to Adam for having the intestinal fortitude to share his story with the world. Go Falcons!

Great interview should get him back on

Good Stuff! I can relate to the IRAQ/Greenzone stories.💯

Im from dorchester it's a pretty rough section of Boston

In the process of putting in my CI packet right meow lol

Thank you for your words, Adam!

Great foookin episode. So much to take in man I’m like a sponge. Lol. Amazing the jobs these three gentle men had and the experiences they’ve had. MA definitely is hippie central hahahha. Adam thanks for all the messages. Dropping knowledge, it was wild when you were in the projects in Iraq and the fucking lights go out. Hahahhaha immediate John wick mode engaged. But overall great episode and tons and tons of great tips about the job, life lessons too.

The interview was amazing and very knowledgeable Adam✨💫🔥🧠

You can tell when jack starts feelin it haha

Very dope podcast loved the stories, super interesting stuff, smart guy as well!

Thanks Adam!

Impressive dude

Thanks for sharing your story, Adam!

This feels like watching Tom Holland in an interview. Coming 🤏 to spilling the beans lol.

Even though we’re in “peacetime” this interview has me ready to try and get a 35L contract in the very near future. It’s ironic because if this was something I would’ve been able to get when I joined the guard fresh out of high school I would’ve done it ( I enlisted 11b and was planning on commissioning and branching MI before life changed)

These interviews always come on while I'm sleeping and I got some of the craziest visuals listening to this shit

Great Introduction...powerful

Jack was like adderall for Adam in this episode.

I always had a feeling Jack Murphy ripped doinks.

Hot T 🔥🔥🔥

“I don’t need to scuba fuckin dive to whack bad guys” 😂🤣