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Army veterans and leadership experts Brandon Young and Blayne Smith join the podcast for a powerful conversation about their new book, Perseverance > Endurance: Lead with Resilience. Grow Through Adversity. Win Together.
Blending combat-tested wisdom, lived leadership experiences, and hard-earned insight from both military and civilian life, Brandon and Blayne break down what it really takes to lead through uncertaintyânot just by gutting it out, but by growing through it.
In this episode, they explore:
The critical difference between endurance and perseveranceâand why one leaves you tired and the other makes you betterHow the âridgeline of adversityâ framework helps teams understand where they areâand what to do nextWhat land navigation teaches us about mental toughness, bad assumptions, and moments of decisionThe trap of prediction vs. the power of preparationâand why confidence matters more than certaintyThe real reason some leaders cling to the way things wereâand how to accept change without losing hopeWhy open dialogue beats open-door policiesâand how to create cultures of candor, feedback, and trustThe discipline to choose action over intentionâand how real growth happens on the other side of hardWhether youâre leading in uniform, navigating a career transition, or helping your team through a difficult season, this conversation delivers timeless tools and modern mindsets for becoming the kind of leader adversity demands.
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U.S. Army Special Operations Command Sergeant Major JoAnn Naumann returns to the podcastâthis time from the range at Fort Braggâfor a conversation on leadership, transformation, and enabling the next generation of special operations forces.
With nearly three decades in uniform and two years as the senior enlisted leader of USASOC, CSM Naumann shares the mindset shifts, hard-won lessons, and bottom-up insights that have shaped her time in the seat.
In this episode, they explore:
Why she believes she has the best job in the Armyâand how she stays energized by the Soldiers around herWhat it means to lead across 80+ countries, and how she stays connected to the ground truthHow USASOC is driving transformation in structure, tech, and human performanceâand why speed and soldier feedback are essentialThe challenge (and opportunity) of going from âoperatorâ to enablerâand how shifting mindset scales impact across 36,000 teammatesWhy NCOs must be willing to say âthatâs a dumb ideaââand the importance of modeling that kind of candor for the forceThe value of reading, curiosity, and lifelong learning in sustaining leadership at the highest levelsHow she adapts her approach to different commandersâand what it really takes to make that relationship workWhether youâre an NCO navigating your first staff job, a commander looking to build trust across the chain, or a lifelong learner looking for leadership insights forged under pressure, this episode delivers a front-row seat to how transformation happensâone question, one conversation, one Soldier at a time.
Command Sergeant Major JoAnn Naumann currently serves as the Senior Enlisted Leader for U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC), where she advises on matters affecting over 36,000 Soldiers across the special operations enterprise.
Born in New Jersey, CSM Naumann graduated from the College of William and Mary with a degree in American Studies and Government before enlisting in the Army in 1996 as a 35P Voice Language Analyst. She completed the Arabic Basic Course at the Defense Language Institute and Advanced Individual Training at Goodfellow Air Force Base.
Over nearly three decades of service, CSM Naumann has held a range of leadership positions, including assignments with the 311th MI Battalion, the 344th MI Battalion, and Special Mission Units. She has deployed 14 times across CENTCOM and AFRICOM, and previously served as the Senior Enlisted Leader for Special Operations CommandâKorea (SOCKOR).
She is a graduate of the Joint Special Operations Forces Senior Enlisted Academy and has completed numerous military schools, including the Military Freefall Course, Airborne and Air Assault Schools, and the SOF Intel Leaders Course.
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In this special Army Birthday Week episode, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Rick Atkinson joins Joe to explore the deep roots of the U.S. Army and what its 250-year journey can teach todayâs leaders. Known for his Liberation Trilogy and now two volumes into his Revolution Trilogy, Atkinson brings the American Revolution to lifeâwarts, wonder, and allâand makes a compelling case for why understanding our founding story is essential for anyone in uniform.
In this episode, they explore:
What it was like growing up as an Army bratâand how Atkinsonâs fatherâs 30-year career shaped his lifelong fascination with military historyThe surprising parallels between Washingtonâs army and todayâs force, from self-study and logistics to leadership under pressureHow George Washingtonâs instinct for civilian controlâand his rapid growth as a commanderâstill echoes in the Armyâs DNAWhy the American Revolution was, in Atkinsonâs words, âour first civil war,â and how its complexity is far more compelling than its mythologyLafayette, logistics, and the brutal truth of 18th-century expeditionary warfare (including the grim sound of horse carcasses hitting the sea)The power of books, curiosity, and informal learning among Washingtonâs officersâand why that tradition matters more than ever for leaders todayWhat Atkinson hopes readers, soldiers, and citizens will carry forward from the Founding Generationâand why we must not lose sight of what they gave usWhether youâre a company commander, a military history buff, or someone simply trying to understand where the Army came from and where itâs headed, this episode is a timely reminder: the past isnât just prologueâitâs instruction.
Rick Atkinson is the bestselling author of eight works of narrative military history, including The Fate of the Day, The Guns at Last Light, The Day of Battle, An Army at Dawn, The Long Gray Line, In the Company of Soldiers, and Crusade. He also was the lead essayist in Where Valor Rests: Arlington National Cemetery, published by National Geographic. He was a reporter, foreign correspondent, war correspondent, and senior editor at The Washington Post for more than twenty years. His many awards include Pulitzer Prizes for history and journalism, the George Polk Award, the George Washington Prize, and the Pritzker Military Library Literature Award for Lifetime Achievement in Military Writing. He lives in Washington, D.C.
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Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Meet ROGER Bankâa modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, itâs banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind.
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In this candid conversation, Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll joins Joe to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to modernize a military while staying grounded in soldier-level feedback. From wrestling with âirrationality and stupidity at scaleâ in the Pentagon to launching the Army Transformation Initiative, Driscoll shares why heâs flipping tablesâsometimes almost literallyâto give soldiers the tools and trust they need to win the next fight.
In this episode, they explore:
How a 15-year âgap decadeâ in law, finance, and private equity enriched Driscollâs return to uniform and deepened his respect for everyday soldiersThe Army Transformation Initiativeâdelivering critical warfighting capabilities, optimizing force structure, and eliminating waste and obsolete programsA Fort Jackson drone drill where recruits with just five weeks in the Army changed training doctrineâproof that innovation starts at E-1Seasons vs. âwork-life balanceâ: why high-tempo service demands conscious trade-offs at home, and how Driscoll keeps perspective as a husband and dad of twoThe IED-factory raid where rules forbade cutting a $2 padlock, and what it taught him about broken feedback loops in combatConcrete ways leaders at every level can accelerate change: send honest ground-truth up the chain, embrace small-unit credit-card innovation, and demand that processes serve soldiers firstWhether youâre a private, a Pentagon staffer, or a curious civilian, this episode offers a front-row seat to the Armyâs most ambitious overhaul in decadesâand a master class in leading large-scale change without losing sight of character, family, and the people who do the fighting.
Daniel P. Driscoll is the 26th Secretary of the Army, sworn in on February 25, 2025. He leads the Armyâs efforts in operations, modernization, and resource management for nearly one million Soldiers and more than 265,000 Army Civilians.
A former Army officer and business executive, Driscoll brings a diverse background in military service, law, and the private sector. Commissioned as an Armor Officer in 2007, he served with the 10th Mountain Division and deployed to Baghdad in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His military honors include the Army Commendation Medal, Ranger Tab, and Combat Action Badge.
Following his service, he earned a J.D. from Yale Law School and held leadership roles in investment banking, private equity, and venture capital, including serving as COO of a $200 million fund. He holds a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
He is married to his high-school sweetheart, and they have two children.
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Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Meet ROGER Bankâa modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, itâs banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind.
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In this powerful conversation, award-winning journalist turned Army officer Sarah Blake Morgan joins Joe for a raw and reflective discussion on identity, purpose, and what happens when we step away from the life we always thought we wanted.
From chasing stories as a national correspondent for the Associated Press to standing in formation at Army basic training at age 31, Sarah opens up about what led her to leave a successful journalism career behindâand what sheâs discovered about herself in the process.
In this episode, they explore:
The slow erosion of purpose that pushed her out of journalismWhy sitting still has been more terrifying than the hardest assignmentThe painful process of letting go of titles, identities, and egoWhat sheâs learning about storytelling in uniformHow walking into the metaphorical (and literal) woods helped her find her next chapterWhether you're navigating a major transition or simply questioning what's next, Sarahâs story will remind you that growth often begins where the path endsâand that it's okay to not know exactly where you're going.
Sarah Blake Morgan is a storyteller and U.S. Army Reserve officer whose unconventional path took her from a successful career in television news to military service. After nearly a decade reporting for stations in Texas, North Carolina, and The Associated Press, Morgan felt stuck in a life of routine. That changed in 2020 when, inspired by a reporting trip with the 82nd Airborne Division, she decided to enlist in the Army.
At 31, she completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood and earned her commission through Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, beginning her journey as a military intelligence officer. Today, she balances her work serving in the special operations community with her ongoing mission to give voice to the unheard â and to discover her own evolving sense of purpose along the way.
In addition to her military and journalism careers, Morgan is the creator and host of The Forgotten: After Helene, a powerful podcast uncovering the overlooked stories of those affected by Hurricane Helene.
Follow her journey at @StorytellerSBM.
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Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Meet ROGER Bankâa modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, itâs banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind.
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In this powerful conversation, retired four-star General Stanley McChrystal joins Joe to discuss his new book, On Character: Choices That Define a Life. Drawing from decades of military leadership and personal reflection, General McChrystal breaks down why character is more than just a wordâit's a daily practice rooted in conviction and discipline.
In this episode, they explore:
Why journaling would have made him a better leaderA practical method he used to align his time with his priorities in AfghanistanHow reading shaped his thinking both in and out of uniformThe subtle but dangerous effects of power on rising leadersWhy leaders must continuously test their convictions under pressureWhether you're in uniform or leading in another capacity, this episode is a must-listen for anyone striving to lead with authenticity, courage, and character.
Stan McChrystal retired in July 2010 as a four-star general after over 34 years of service in the U.S. Army. His final assignment was as the commander of NATOâs International Security Assistance Force and all US forces in Afghanistan. He had previously served as the director of the Joint Staff and almost five years in command of the Joint Special Operations Command.
General McChrystalâs memoir, My Share of the Task, was a New York Times bestseller in 2013. He is also the author of New York Times bestseller Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World and wrote the forward for the sequel, One Mission:How Leaders Build a Team of Teams. He is a senior fellow at Yale Universityâs Jackson Institute for Global Affairs and a partner at McChrystal Group, where he transforms organizations into adaptable teams. He and his wife, Annie, live in Virginia.
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Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Meet ROGER Bankâa modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, itâs banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind.
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Lieutenant General Mary Izaguirre, the 46th Surgeon General of the U.S. Army and Commanding General of Army Medical Command, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, vulnerability, culture, and purpose. Drawing on over three decades of service, LTG Izaguirre shares hard-earned lessons on how to lead authentically and navigate professional complexity.
Together, they discuss the evolving role of Army Medicine, the power of modeling vulnerability, and how intentionalityânot balanceâis the key to managing lifeâs trade-offs. Joe and LTG Izaguirre cover:
Why vulnerability is a leadership strength, not a weaknessHow leaders can model safety, trust, and curiosity within their teamsThe importance of asking the right questionsâand being okay not knowing the answersHow trade-offs, not balance, define sustainable leadershipThe impact of journaling and reflection in high-responsibility rolesBreaking down the âus vs. themâ mentality in large organizationsWhat Army Medicineâs true mission isâand why it matters more than everWhether youâre a leader in uniform, a parent navigating a demanding career, or someone wrestling with how to show up fully for both your mission and your people, this episode is packed with wisdom, candor, and practical insights.
Lieutenant General Mary K. Izaguirre is the 46th Surgeon General of the U.S. Army and the Commanding General of Army Medical Command. A board-certified family physician and Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, she brings over three decades of military and medical leadership to her role. LTG Izaguirre has held key command and senior staff positions across the Army and deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. She holds multiple advanced degrees, including a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Master of Public Health, and Master in National Security and Resource Strategy. She and her husband, Joseph, are the proud parents of five children.
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Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Meet ROGER Bankâa modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, itâs banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind.
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In this Notebook Notes episode of From the Green Notebook, we sit down with Bob OâBrien, the Armyâs lead for the Command Assessment Program (CAP), to take a deep dive into how CAP is transforming how the Army selects and develops its future leaders. Bob explains how this multi-day assessment process captures over 1,800 data points per candidate to provide a more complete picture of leadership potentialâbeyond what a single OER can show. Together, Bob and Joe Discuss:
How the Command Assessment Program WorksThe Importance of Self-AwarenessMyths About CAP DebunkedCommunicating Under PressureThe Redemptive Power of âNot Yet CertifiedâExecutive Coaching and Developmental ToolsData-Driven Command Team BuildingPreparing Early for CAP SuccessThe Role of Reflection and JournalingHow My Green Notebook: "Know Thyself" Before Changing Jobs helps leaders prepare for CAPWhether you're preparing for CAP, coaching someone who is, or just interested in how organizations can better assess and grow talent, this episode offers both insight and practical advice.
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Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Meet ROGER Bankâa modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, itâs banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Visit ROGER today!
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In this Mother's Day episode, Joe sits down with Danny Ricker, Emmy-nominated comedy writer, producer, and author of Wow, You Look Terrible!: How to Parent Less and Live More, for a laugh-out-loud conversation on the highs and lows of parenting young kids. Drawing from both personal experience and sharp comedic insight, Danny unpacks the pressure modern parents face to do it allâand why doing less might actually be the key to doing it better.
Together, they explore:
Why parenting today often feels like a full-time personal assistant gig for unpredictable tiny humansThe trap of performative parenting and how social media fuels unrealistic expectationsThe genius of the â17-Minute Birthday Partyâ and why kids donât need extravagance to have funHow the âPurgatory Cabinetâ can save your sanity (and your childâs lucky nickel)Parenting as exercise: from claw-machine wakeups to carrying kids like a living weighted vestThe power of âgarbage timeâ and why the little moments matter more than the big eventsLessons Danny learned writing for Jimmy Kimmel Live! and how to deal with rejection, failure, and ego in high-pressure creative environments (Read the blog post!!)Whether youâre a parent knee-deep in toys and tantrums or just trying to hold on to a sense of humor amidst the chaos, this conversation offers a much-needed reminder that the most meaningful moments are often the messiest ones.
Danny Ricker is a TV writer, producer, author, and nine-time Emmy nominee who currently serves as a Head Writer and Co-Executive Producer at âJimmy Kimmel Live.â
His other notable writing credits include The Oscars (2017, 2018, 2023, & 2024), The Primetime Emmys (2012, 2016, & 2020), the White House Correspondentsâ Dinner, and his debut book Wow, You Look Terrible!
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Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Meet ROGER Bankâa modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, itâs banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Visit ROGER today!
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In this special edition of From the Green Notebook, Joe sits down with Command Sergeant Major Christopher Mullinax from the Armyâs Training Directorate to break down the most recent changes to the Armyâs fitness assessmentâthe newly updated Army Fitness Test (AFT).
After years of collecting data from the field and listening to feedback from soldiers and leaders at all levels, the Army is rolling out a revised approach to physical fitness. CSM Mullinax explains the changes.
Joe and CSM Mullinax discusses how the Army continues to evolve fitness standards to build a more combat-ready force. They also tackle common misconceptions, the logic behind removing overly technical events, and how leaders can implement the new test without disrupting unit readiness.
Whether you're a first sergeant trying to understand the rollout timeline or a squad leader wondering how this affects your soldiers' promotion packets, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating change in today's Army.
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Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Meet ROGER Bankâa modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, itâs banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Visit ROGER today!
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett, a leading neuroscientist and author of How Emotions Are Made, to explore groundbreaking insights on how emotions are formed and how we can better understand and regulate them. Together, they dive deep into the science behind emotions, how the brain predicts our feelings, and how we can gain more emotional agency in our personal and professional lives. Joe and Dr. Barrett cover:
The theory of constructed emotions and how emotions are predictions, not reactionsThe role of the brain in regulating the body and how it shapes emotional experiencesWhy uncertainty feels like anxietyâand how to reframe itHow emotional granularity can help us build better emotional vocabulary and controlPractical steps to improve emotional regulation and decision-makingThe impact of body budgeting on mood, stress, and overall healthWhether you're leading a team, navigating personal relationships, or simply trying to better understand your emotional life, this conversation will give you powerful tools to enhance your emotional intelligence and well-being.
Lisa Feldman Barrett, PhD, is among the top 0.1% most cited scientists in the world for her revolutionary research in psychology and neuroscience. She is a University Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Northeastern University. She also holds appointments at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, where she is Chief Science Officer for the Center for Law, Brain & Behavior.
In addition to the books Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain and How Emotions are Made, Dr. Barrett has published over 275 peer-reviewed, scientific papers appearing in Science, Nature Neuroscience, and other top journals in psychology and cognitive neuroscience, as well as six academic volumes published by Guilford Press. She writes regularly about science in the popular press, including The New York Times, The Guardian, Scientific American, BBC Science Focus, Popular Science, Nautilus, BigThink, Cosmopolitan, Time magazine, MIT Technology Review, and more (see full list). Her popular TED talk has been viewed over 7 million times.
A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!
Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Meet ROGER Bankâa modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, itâs banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Visit
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In this special episode, Joe sits down with Lieutenant General Greg Anderson, Commanding General of XVIII Airborne Corps, to discuss one of the most significant structural changes to the airborne community in decades. With 22,000 paid parachutist positions on the table for reclassification, LTG Anderson explains the data-driven process behind the decision, what it means for readiness, and how the Army is adapting to modern operational demands.
They explore how emotional reactions to change can cloud understanding, why building consensus through transparency and method matters, and what this transformation says about leadership in complex organizations. Whether you're a paratrooper, a leader managing change, or someone passionate about the future of the force, this episode offers a rare inside look at how the Army balances tradition with transformation.
A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!
Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Meet ROGER Bankâa modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, itâs banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Visit ROGER today!
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Victoria Trammel from the Arbinger Institute to explore the life-changing insights from the newly revised edition of Leadership and Self-Deception. Together, they dig into the patterns of self-justification, the emotional energy we waste on false narratives, and the practical tools leaders can use to shift from an inward to an outward mindset. Joe and Victoria cover:
The concept of self-deception and how it shows up in leadership and relationshipsHow âcollusionsâ form between individuals and groups, sabotaging collaborationThe difference between being helpful and looking helpfulReal-world stories of self-betrayal at work and at homeHow to identify and interrupt the inward mindset in yourself and your teamThe power of journaling and reflection in shifting perspectiveSteps for becoming more outward-focused without sacrificing accountabilityWhether youâre a leader in the military, the corporate world, or at home, this conversation offers powerful reminders and tools for transforming how we relate to othersâand ourselves.
With almost 3 million copies sold worldwide, this new edition of an enduring classic is the definitive guide to dramatically improve leadership effectiveness, transform personal and professional relationships, and unleash organizational results.
Significantly revised throughout, this edition includes updated stories, brand new content, and a practical group discussion guide.
Over two decades since first being published, Leadership and Self-Deception continues to help readers discover and overcome the persistent lies that are at the heart of the people-related dysfunction that plagues relationships and hinders organizational results. Told through an engaging story, this book reveals the ways we blind ourselves to our true motivations and unwittingly sabotage our efforts to achieve success and rebuild broken relationships.A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!
Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Meet ROGER Bankâa modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, itâs banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Visit ROGER today!
Cairn Leadership helps teams build trust, clarity, and accountabilityâwithout the buzzwords. Their approach blends coaching with real outdoor adventures, like climbing in Joshua Tree. Visit cairnleadership.com/ftgn for 10% off your teamâs program.
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In this episode of From the Green Notebook, General Randy George, the 41st Chief of Staff of the Army, returns to discuss the habits, practices, and mindset that have shaped his leadership journey. From the pocket-sized notebook he started as a field grade officer to the lessons he's learning from visiting troops and reading deeply, General George offers a candid reflection on growth, command, and staying grounded in your values.
In this conversation, they discuss:
The leadership lessons General George captured in his personal notebook and how reflection has guided him through multiple levels of commandThe role reading plays in staying intellectually curious and professionally sharp, including the books that have shaped his thinkingHow bottom-up innovation is driving the Armyâs "Transforming in Contact" initiative and what heâs learning from frontline unitsThe importance of consistency in communication and why leaders must seek out and act on honest feedbackHow personal valuesâand regular conversations with his spouseâhelp him stay aligned with what matters most, both in and out of uniformThis episode is brought to you by the Association of the United States Army (AUSA).
We know the U.S. Army protects our freedoms every dayâbut have you ever thought about whoâs protecting the U.S. Army? Meet AUSAâthe Armyâs premier professional association, dedicated to supporting every aspect of the Army journey.This year marks an incredible milestone: 250 years of the U.S. Army defending our nation. To celebrate, AUSA is offering exclusive Premium membership discounts for a limited time:
2 years for just $30 (normally $40)5 years for $50 (normally $75)Lifetime membership for only $250 (normally $400)Premium members receive top-tier benefits, including a subscription to ARMY magazine and access to over $300,000 in scholarships.
Join now and stand with those who serve. Sign up today at ausa.org/membership/premiumâno code necessary.
AUSAâSupporting Soldiers. Strengthening America.And donât forget to check out AUSAâs official podcast, Army Matters.
Hosted by LTG (Ret.) Leslie C. Smith and SMA (Ret.) Dan Dailey, Army Matters brings you in-depth conversations with Army leaders past, present, and futureâfrom the battlefields to the boardrooms and beyond. New episodes drop every other Wednesday wherever you get your podcasts. -
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In this episode, host Joe sits down with Melody Wilding, an executive coach and author of Managing Up: How To Get What you Need From the People In Charge to explore the dynamics of power, status, and influence in the workplace. Melody shares practical strategies for managing up effectively, not by being a sycophant, but by building stronger relationships, communicating with confidence, and navigating workplace dynamics with integrity. Together they discuss
What it really means to âmanage upâ (Hint: itâs not about being a suck-up)Why proximity to power can distort your focusâand how to avoid the status trapThe importance of upward empathy and understanding your bossâs pressuresHow to adapt to different leadership styles to build stronger relationshipsThe power of the âME Manualâ and why self-awareness is key to successHow to set boundaries at workâwithout damaging your reputationThe concept of âPushback Powerâ and how to know when (and how) to say noWhether you work in the military, corporate world, or any hierarchical environment, this conversation will help you become a more effective leader from wherever you stand.
A special thanks to this week's sponsors!
Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!FightCamp is the largest boxing and kickboxing community in the world. Their innovative fitness system combines real-time tracking, professional coaching, and an extensive workout library of over 3,000 sessions.
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In this episode, Joe welcomes Corie Weathers, licensed professional counselor, author, and expert on military culture, to explore the shifting landscape of service, leadership, and the personal challenges faced by military members and their families. Corie shares insights from her latest book, Military Culture Shift, offering her thoughts on the past 20 years of war and what it means for the future of the force.
Together, they discuss the key moments and lessons that shape military service, leadership, and personal well-being, including:
How the Global War on Terror shaped an entire generation of military leadersâand what comes next.The psychological toll of service, from combat stress to the unseen burdens of leadership.Generational shifts in the militaryâwhy Gen Zâs approach to work, leadership, and life is different from previous generations.The evolution of military family dynamics and the changing role of spouse support networks.Why taking time to reflect, heal, and process experiences is critical for long-term well-being.The importance of mental wellness and how leaders can foster a culture that encourages self-care.Tune in to hear Corieâs insights and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing todayâs military leaders.
Corie Weathers, licensed professional counselor (LPC), is a sought-after speaker, consultant, and award-winning author. Corie has focused her career for the last 20 years as a clinician specializing in marriage, special forces, the service culture, and its impact on families. She has traveled internationally to visit troops and report on deployment conditions and has taught service families across the globe. Corie consults on military culture, produces content through interviews and videos, and facilitates meaningful and productive sessions and retreats on how to live, lead multi-generational teams, find purpose, and build relationships using their natural talents.
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Exray a veteran-owned apparel brand elevating the custom gear experience. Exray provides free design services and creates dedicated web stores for units.
My favorite coffee is veteran-owned Alpha Coffee and I've been drinking it every morning since 2020! They make 100% premium arabica coffee. Alpha has donated over 22k bags of coffee to deployed units and they offer a 10% discount for military veterans, first responders, nurses, and teachers! Try their coffee today. Once you taste the Alpha difference, you won't want to drink anything else! Learn more here
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In this episode, Joe welcomes David Baker, former President & Executive Director of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, to explore leadership, legacy, and the values that shape extraordinary careers. David shares lessons from his time working with NFL legends, his deep respect for the military, and his latest mission to impact youth sports.
Together, they discuss the key moments and insights that shaped his career, offering valuable takeaways for leaders in sports, business, and the military. David and Joe dive into:
Why success isnât about a single job or title but about embracing the journey.Lessons in leadership from mentors like Jerry Jones, Roger Goodell, and Wellington Mara.The emotional power of "The Knock"âtelling players theyâve been inducted into the Hall of Fame.How sports and the military share fundamental values like resilience, teamwork, and sacrifice.The importance of legacyâwhether as a player, a leader, a parent, or a soldier.How his new initiative, World Youth Sports, aims to instill character and leadership in young athletes.Why every day matters, and how to make each one your masterpiece.Tune in to hear Davidâs incredible stories and gain timeless leadership lessons that can help you build your own Hall of Fame-worthy legacy.
A special thanks to this week's sponsors!
Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Exray a veteran-owned apparel brand elevating the custom gear experience. Exray provides free design services and creates dedicated web stores for units.
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In this episode, Joe welcomes Sam Walker, author of The Captain Class: A New Theory of Leadership, to dive into the world of leadership and team dynamics. Sam shares the surprising insights from his 11 years of research, studying over 25,000 teams since the 1880s, to uncover what truly makes teams great and sustains their success.Together, they explore the counterintuitive behaviors and traits that separate extraordinary leaders from the rest, challenging many traditional notions of leadership. Whether youâre leading in sports, business, or the military, this episode is packed with practical lessons for creating and sustaining high-performing teams. Sam and Joe discuss:
The seven key traits that define elite captains and sustain team success.Why leadership isnât about talent, charisma, or speeches, but about behaviors.The concept of âcarrying the waterâ and why great leaders often work in the background.How to regulate emotions and use them effectively to inspire and guide your team.Why strong team cultures are essential, and how to ensure people thrive within them.The importance of being ârelentlessly boringâ to conserve energy for what matters most.How these principles apply to military, business, and other high-stakes environments.Tune in to hear how you can redefine leadership, uncover your teamâs hidden potential, and apply Samâs âcheat codesâ to create lasting success in your own organization.
Sam Walker is an author, keynote speaker, and strategist who helps organizations strengthen their leadership selection and development practices, build stronger cultures, and create more cohesive and enduringly successful teams.He has worked with a Super Bowl-winning NFL franchise, several high-achieving national, Olympic and NCAA-champion sports teams, a national law enforcement agency, elite U.S. military special forces units, one of the worldâs largest money managers, one of the worldâs leading surgical hospitals, one of the worldâs largest media companies and the commanding officers of a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier.
His most recent book, The Captain Class, is a meticulous analysis of effective leadership based on the traits of the captains who led the 17 most dominant teams in sports history. The book has become a cult classic, beloved by men and women worldwide who apply its principles to leading and building teams.
A special thanks to this week's sponsors!
Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Exray a veteran-owned apparel brand elevating the custom gear experience. Exray provides free design services and creates dedicated web stores for units.
Onebrief, the transformative software platform redefining operational planning and military staff workflows. -
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In this episode, Joe welcomes Harvard professor and author Alison Wood Brooks to discuss her groundbreaking book, Talk: The Science and Art of Being Ourselves. Together, they explore the science behind conversations and how they shape our personal and professional lives.Alison introduces her TALK frameworkâTopics, Asking, Levity, Kindnessâproviding actionable strategies to improve communication. She shares why talking can feel so cognitively demanding, the myth of natural charisma, and how intentional choices can lead to deeper, more meaningful connections.
Joe and Alison discuss practical tools like navigating the "topic pyramid," creating psychological safety in group settings, and the surprising power of levity. They also highlight the art of mastering conversations in both everyday life and professional environments.
Whether youâre a leader, a friend, or simply someone wanting to communicate better, this episode offers invaluable insights for connecting with others and being authentically yourself.
Dr. Alison Wood Brooks is the OâBrien Associate Professor of Business Administration and Hellman Faculty Fellow at the Harvard Business School, where she created and teaches a course called TALK. As a behavioral scientist, she is a leading expert on the science of conversation. Her award-winning research has been published in top academic journals and is regularly cited in media outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, and NPR. Her research was referenced in two of the top ten most-viewed TED talks of all time and depicted in Pixarâs Inside Out 2. In 2021, she was named a Best 40 Under 40 Business School Professor by Poets & Quants. "TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves" is her first book.
A special thanks to this week's sponsors!
Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Exray a veteran-owned apparel brand elevating the custom gear experience. Exray provides free design services and creates dedicated web stores for units.
Onebrief, the transformative software platform redefining operational planning and military staff workflows -
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The 25th Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth joins Joe for a candid conversation about leadership, self-awareness, and the evolving challenges of guiding the largest branch of the U.S. military. With over three decades of experience in national security, she shares her expectations for Army leaders, the importance of self-development, and why critical thinking and communication skills are essential for success at the highest levels.Secretary Wormuth also highlights her strong support for the Armyâs Command Assessment Program (CAP), emphasizing early self-development, the power of feedback, and the role of humility and reflection in building resilient leadership teams. She also stresses the importance of maintaining the Army's apolitical stance, fostering public trust, and ensuring continuity through times of change.
Topics Covered:
The key attributes of effective Army leadersThe role of the Command Assessment Program in shaping leadershipWhy feedback and reflection are crucial for personal growthBalancing professional and personal priorities over a long careerWhy military leaders need to remain apolitical and be non-combatants in the culture warsHonorable Christine Wormuth was confirmed by the U.S. Senate and appointed as the 25th Secretary of the U.S. Army May 28, 2021. The Secretary of the Army is the senior civilian official within the Department of Defense responsible for all matters relating to the U.S. Army.
Prior to confirmation, she was the Director of the International Defense and Security Center at the RAND Corporation where she was a frequent writer and speaker on foreign policy, national security and homeland security issues.
Prior to RAND, she served in several roles during the Obama Administration. From December 2010 until August 2012 she was a special assistant to the president and senior director for Defense at the National Security Council. Wormuth then served as deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Strategy, Plans, and Forces, and led the 2014 Quadrennial Defense Review. From 2014-2016 she served in DOD as Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, where she advised the Secretary of Defense on the full range of regional and functional national security issues.
Wormuth entered the government as a Presidential Management Intern and began her public service career in the Policy Office of the Office of the Secretary of Defense from 1996 through 2002. After leaving government, she worked in the private sector on defense issues, and then was a Senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies for five years.
A special thanks to this week's sponsors!
Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!
Exray a veteran-owned apparel brand elevating the custom gear experience. Exray provides free design services and creates dedicated web stores for units.
Onebrief, the transformative software platform redefining operational planning and military staff workflows - Show more
