We Got 'Em: An Interview with Richard "Mack" Machowicz

Richard "Mack" Machowicz probably needs no introduction. Just in case here goes. He is a former Navy SEAL who has been busy since he left the Navy. He holds multiple black belts in various martial art systems. He is an author and public speaker . . . Oh, and he has been on TV a bit. He is the former host of Future Weapons and he recently finished Season 3 of Deadliest Warrior.

Mack, you mentioned on the last episode of Deadliest Warrior that before all the SEAL stuff you were just a nerdy kid who liked comic books. Tell us about what Mack was like before the Navy.

Stan Lee did influence me a lot. I had numerous challenges growing up. Around age nine, I was in juvenile hall. I was bullied off and on for awhile. Later I joined the Sea Cadets and started to study martial arts.

What else would we be surprised to know about Mack?

I used to make films as a kid. A group of us made a film and won a national contest for it. Steven Spielberg even sent us a letter congratulating us on the film.

How was Season 3 of Deadliest Warrior and how was it compared to Future Weapons?

Overall it was good. The situation was different and a bit tricky as the format for Deadliest Warrior was already established. I had creative input on Deadliest Warrior but not as much as I had on Future Weapons.

So what can we expect for Season 4?

Well, Season 4 is up in the air right now and may not happen. Whether the show lives on, and in what fashion, is currently being debated over at Spike.

What is Not Dead Can't Quit?

NDCQ is an approach to life. It pertains to more than just warfare. It is for any and everyone. It is about seizing opportunities in life and being in the moment. It is about doing what needs to be done to realize one's dreams which includes follow through. Whether it be determination in the moment, preparation beforehand, or following through on something NDCQ is an attitude of accomplishment that has influenced every facet of my life and I want to pass it on.

I've been dying to ask you about the AA-12 Shotgun. How is it and would you ever use it?

The AA-12 is awesome. It has almost no recoil. It needed no cleaning and it never jammed when we shot it for Future Weapons. It puts more lead down range than anything remotely similar. For close quarter combat, it would be my first go to gun.

I am glad I finally got to ask that. Is there anything you want to state before you go?

Sure. I have accomplished most of the dreams I had as a kid. I was a SEAL. I have made short films;
I am working on a few graphic novels. I have written a book (Unleash The Warrior Within) - another is on the way. I am working on a scripted program right now. The point of all of this is not to brag but to say that if a knucklehead like me can do all these things, you can too. Set goals and then go for them. Not Dead Can't Quit.

Thanks Mack. You made my month if not my year.