Ep. 2 | Mahnaz Akbari: The Trailblazing Afghan Army commander

4/24/2024

Introducing my next guest, Mahnaz Akbari, a former member of the Female Tactical Platoon (FTP) and commander of the Female Tactical Company in what was the Afghan National Army before the fall of 2021. Mahnaz played a critical role during her service, working alongside elite U.S. Special Operations forces to apprehend high-value targets within the insurgency.

She has been featured in major publications including The New York Times, The Washington Post, Fox News, and Business Insider.

In our discussion, we dive into a wide array of subjects, such as her emigration from Iran to Afghanistan, her ascension to a leadership role within the FTP, her experiences in night raids, the tumultuous fall of Kabul, and her subsequent resettlement in the United States.

She currently works with the PenFed Foundation, dedicating her efforts to help former FTP members transition smoothly into U.S. society. This includes providing them with housing assistance and career training opportunities.It was an absolute pleasure to have Mahnaz on the podcast, and I am excited for you all to hear her incredible story!