Command Post Cohort

Craig and Andrew explore the distinction between leadership and expertise, emphasizing that while leaders should have a general understanding of their organization's operations, they do not need to be experts in every field. They discuss the importance of communication, trust, and collaboration in effective leadership, as well as the necessity of being present with team members to build relationships and understanding. The conversation highlights that leadership is about guiding teams towards outcomes rather than possessing all the answers.TakeawaysA leader needs to have some knowledge.Leaders don't have to have all the answers.It's about outcomes, not just expertise.You don't have to know everything to lead.Being present builds trust.Leadership is a different skill set.You can learn from your team.Consulting with experts is crucial.Trust is essential in leadership.Effective leadership involves collaboration.www.commandpostcohort.comwww.outsiders-group.com

Craig and Andrew discuss the concept of influence without authority, particularly in leadership roles. They explore the challenges faced by leaders in complex environments, such as military operations in Afghanistan, where building trust and navigating competing priorities are crucial. The conversation emphasizes the importance of listening, relationship building, and redefining success in collaborative settings, highlighting that effective leadership often requires patience and understanding of diverse stakeholders.TakeawaysInfluence without authority is a common challenge for leaders.Building trust takes time and effort, especially in complex environments.Leaders must navigate competing priorities and personalities.Listening to stakeholders is crucial for effective leadership.Establishing relationships can lead to better collaboration.Redefining success is important in collaborative environments.Understanding cultural differences can enhance communication.Small steps in relationship building can lead to significant trust.Trust is a gradual process that requires consistent effort.Effective leadership often involves patience and understanding.www.commandpostcohort.comwww.outsiders-group.com

In this episode, Craig and Andrew discuss the challenges and responsibilities of leadership in the face of new tools and technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. They emphasize the importance of building a culture of trust within teams to navigate change effectively. The conversation explores how leaders can define success amidst uncertainty, enhance team performance with technology, and promote innovation while mitigating risks.www.commandpostcohort.comwww.outsiders-group.com

SummaryIn this episode, Craig and Andrew discuss the critical distinction between being busy and being productive, especially in leadership roles. They explore the importance of prioritizing tasks, managing time effectively, and incentivizing productivity over mere busyness. The conversation delves into the significance of metrics and outcomes in measuring success, emphasizing the need for leaders to create systems that foster productivity and address root causes of inefficiencies.TakeawaysBeing busy does not equate to being productive.Leaders must prioritize tasks to manage their time effectively.It's essential to distinguish between urgent tasks and important tasks.Creating standardized processes can enhance productivity.Time management techniques like time blocking can improve focus.Incentivizing the right behaviors is crucial for team productivity.Leaders should spend time observing their team's work.Metrics should align with desired outcomes, not just output.Effective leadership involves working on the business, not just in it.Regularly reassessing systems and processes is vital for ongoing success.www.commandpostcohort.comNew book coming next month!!!

Craig and Andrew discuss the evolving landscape of workplace policies, particularly the return to office debate. They explore the complexities of remote work, the importance of trust in teams, and the need for leaders to adapt their strategies based on the specific needs of their organizations. The conversation emphasizes the significance of intentional decision-making and clear communication in fostering a productive work environment.TakeawaysThe return to office debate is complex and requires careful consideration.A hybrid model may be more effective than a strict return to office policy.Technology enables remote work, but not all roles can be remote.Building trust is essential for effective remote teams.Leaders must understand the specific needs of different roles.Fairness in workplace policies should consider role-specific requirements.Decisions should be based on thorough analysis, not knee-jerk reactions.Patience is necessary when implementing new policies.Clear communication of purpose and intent fosters trust.Leaders must adapt to the changing needs of their teams.New book coming soon!! more info on our website!www.outsiders-group.comwww.commandpostcohort.com

This conversation discusses the critical aspects of leadership in high-risk military operations, focusing on the complexities involved, the importance of trust, communication, and planning, and how these elements contribute to successful outcomes. The speakers emphasize that effective leadership is not just about high-ranking officers but involves all levels of personnel working together to achieve a common goal. They also discuss the significance of presence and trust-building over time, highlighting that these factors are essential for executing complex missions successfully.TakeawaysLeadership is the key differentiator in high-risk operations.Building trust takes time and consistent effort.Effective communication is crucial for mission success.Planning should be thorough and well-communicated.Trust is bi-directional and essential for team performance.High standards in training lead to better outcomes.Presence of leaders during planning builds trust.Complex operations require managing multiple risks.Differentiation in performance comes from people, not just technology.Leadership is a continuous journey of improvement.www.commandpostcohort.comwww.outsiders-group.com

In this episode of the Command Post Cohort, hosts Craig and Andrew kick off Season 2 by discussing the foundational elements of effective leadership, particularly focusing on trust as the cornerstone of high-performing teams. They introduce their upcoming book, which outlines a system designed to help leaders build trust through five key mechanisms: standards, communication, decision-making, planning, and presence. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize that trust is not given but earned, and that leaders must be deliberate in their actions to foster a culture of trust within their teams.Craig and Andrew discuss each of the five mechanisms, explaining how they interconnect and contribute to a cohesive leadership strategy. They share practical examples and anecdotes to illustrate their points, highlighting the importance of clear expectations, effective communication, and the leader's presence in building trust. The episode wraps up with a preview of their new book's release.www.outsiders-group.comwww.commandpostcohort.comTakeawaysTrust is the cornerstone of high-performing teams.Leaders must earn trust through deliberate actions.Effective communication is essential for building trust.Decision-making processes impact team trust.Presence and support from leaders enhance team morale.

Craig and Andrew announce their book being released in 2026 and share the audio from the live crossover podcast from the Monthly Military Connected Mentorship Meetup with special guest Brandon Cates CEO of Ametrine. www.commandpostcohort.comwww.outsiders-group.com

SummaryIn this episode, Craig and Andrew explore the human side of leadership, emphasizing the importance of servant leadership, team dynamics, and the challenges leaders face in asking for help. They share stories and insights on how building relationships and trust within teams can enhance collaboration and operational effectiveness. The conversation highlights the need for leaders to recognize their own vulnerabilities and the value of seeking assistance from others, ultimately fostering a supportive and productive work environment.TakeawaysLeadership is about taking care of your people.Servant leadership is a two-way street.Building relationships is essential for trust.Asking for help can be a challenge for leaders.Small acts of kindness can demonstrate leadership.Organizations are made up of individuals with unique needs.Outsourcing can be a smart business decision.Leaders must prioritize their own well-being to support their teams.Effective leadership involves recognizing when to seek assistance.The human element in leadership is complex and variable.www.outsiders-group.comwww.commandpostcohort.com

In this episode, Craig and Andrew discuss leadership lessons drawn from Andrew's military experiences, particularly focusing on the challenges faced during combat deployments. They explore themes of resilience, the weight of command, overcoming fear, and the importance of optimism in leadership. Through personal stories, they illustrate how leaders can navigate adversity and maintain a positive outlook, even in the face of significant challenges.TakeawaysLeadership is about facing adversity head-on.Experiencing fear can lead to personal growth.The anticipation of challenges can be more daunting than the challenges themselves.Resilience is built through overcoming difficult experiences.Leaders must maintain a positive mindset to inspire their teams.Mistakes are a part of the learning process in leadership.Historical context can weigh heavily on decision-making in leadership roles.Optimism is essential for effective leadership.Courage is necessary to push back against authority when needed.Leaders should focus on instilling hope in their teams.www.outsiders-group.comwww.commandpostcohort.com

In this episode, Craig Oglesby and Andrew discuss the concept of Commander's Intent as a leadership tool, emphasizing its importance in both military and business contexts. They break down the components of Commander's Intent, including purpose, key tasks, and end state, and illustrate how these elements empower teams to operate effectively and make decisions independently. Through real-world examples, they demonstrate how a well-crafted Commander's Intent can guide organizations in achieving their goals and adapting to changing circumstances.TakeawaysCommander's Intent is a crucial leadership tool.It condenses complex operations into clear directives.Understanding the 'why' behind tasks enhances team motivation.Key tasks are the critical actions needed for success.The end state defines what success looks like.Empowering teams requires clear communication of intent.A well-crafted intent can guide decision-making at all levels.Clarity in purpose helps prevent miscommunication.Effective leadership involves taking the time to articulate intent.www.commandpostcohort.comwww.outsiders-group.com

In this episode, Craig and Andrew discuss the complexities of cross-functional leadership through a military operation story. They explore the challenges of communication, planning, and execution in high-stakes environments, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and understanding among different teams. The conversation highlights how miscommunication can lead to operational hurdles and the necessity of constant communication to ensure success.TakeawaysCross-functional leadership is essential for success.Message sent may not be message received.Constant communication is key in operations.Training differences can lead to misunderstandings.Mitigating risks requires thorough planning.We had to work together to accomplish our goals.Cross-functional teams face unique challenges.Leadership is about constant effort and collaboration.www.outsiders-group.comwww.commandpostcohort.com

In this episode, Craig and Andrew discuss the concept of breaking rules in leadership. They explore the idea of 'disciplined disobedience' as a necessary skill for leaders, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and understanding the purpose behind tasks. Through real-world examples, they illustrate how effective communication and trust within teams can empower individuals to make decisions that may go against established protocols. The conversation highlights the balance between adhering to rules and exercising flexibility to achieve organizational goalsTakeawaysBreaking the rules can sometimes be necessary for effective leadership.Disciplined disobedience is a deliberate and intentional action.Critical thinking is essential for leaders to navigate complex situations.Empowerment and trust within teams lead to better decision-making.Communication challenges can lead to misunderstandings in decision-making.Understanding the purpose behind tasks is crucial for effective execution.Leaders should encourage independent thinking rather than blind obedience.Real-world examples illustrate the importance of flexibility in leadership.The balance between rules and flexibility is key to organizational success.Effective leadership requires a culture of trust and open communication.Free resources and more services available at our websites.www.outsiders-group.comwww.commandpostcohort.com

In this episode, Craig and Andrew engage with Vijay Rajendran, a founder and entrepreneur, discussing the multifaceted challenges of leadership in startups. They explore the transition from being a 'Chief Everything Officer' to a more strategic role, emphasizing the importance of frameworks, resilience, and effective communication in navigating the startup landscape. Vijay shares insights on the learnable aspects of fundraising, team building, and the necessity of creating systems that allow for reflection and growth. The conversation highlights the significance of a growth mindset and the need for founders to adapt as their companies scale.Takeaways:Leadership in startups requires adaptability and learning.Founders often start as 'Chief Everything Officers'.The 80-20 rule is crucial for early-stage leadership.Fundraising, sales, and team building are learnable skills.Creating frameworks can empower teams and reduce guesswork.Resilience is key to navigating the ups and downs of startups.Effective communication systems are essential as companies grow.A growth mindset allows leaders to overcome challenges.Onboarding processes are vital for new team members.Reflection on processes helps improve decision-making.For more information on Vijay or his book and coaching please checkout www.mystartupsystem.com Link to his book belowThe Funding Frameworkhttps://a.co/d/fICjVfdTo reach Craig or Andrew and see their resources visit the sites below.www.outsiders-group.comwww.commandpostcohort.com

In this episode, Andrew and Craig discuss the importance of problem solving in leadership, drawing from Craig's experiences in Afghanistan. They explore how leaders can creatively address unexpected challenges, the significance of collaboration and trust within teams, and the opportunities that arise from tackling problems head-on. The conversation emphasizes that effective leadership involves not only solving problems but also fostering relationships and building trust within and outside the organization.TakeawaysLeadership is fundamentally about problem solving.Creativity plays a crucial role in addressing unexpected challenges.Leaders must adapt to unique situations that may not align with their training.Taking on additional responsibilities can lead to growth and learning.Collaboration is essential for effective problem solving.Trust is built through consistent actions and support.Problem solving can create opportunities for team bonding and collaboration.Addressing problems for others can lead to unexpected positive outcomes.Effective leaders leverage their team's strengths to find solutions.Building relationships is vital in both military and business contexts.www.commandpostcohort.comwww.outsiders-group.com

In this episode, Craig and Andrew discuss the challenges and changes that come with transitioning from a peer to a leader. They explore the importance of building trust, setting clear standards, and navigating difficult conversations. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective communication and the balance between authority and friendliness in leadership roles. They also highlight the inevitability of mistakes in the leadership journey and the importance of learning from them.TakeawaysThe transition from peer to leader requires a mental shift.Building trust is essential for effective leadership.Every action taken as a leader contributes to your credibility.Clear communication of standards is crucial after a promotion.Navigating hard conversations is a key leadership skill.Leaders must balance authority with approachability.Establishing expectations early can prevent misunderstandings.Mistakes are part of the leadership journey; learn from them.Effective leaders adapt their style to the situation.Communication is the foundation of successful leadership.#leadership #coaching #development#communication #trust #standards #management #commandpostcohortwww.outsiders-group.comwww.commandpostcohort.com

In this episode, Craig and Andrew discuss the importance of empowering leadership through delegation, building trust within teams, and the balance between control and trust in leadership roles. They share personal experiences and insights on how effective delegation can enhance organizational success and the continuous journey of improvement in leadership skills.Empowering others through delegation enhances leadership effectiveness.Leaders are responsible for outcomes but do not need to do everything themselves.Trusting team members fosters a culture of accountability and growth.Effective communication is key to building trust within a team.Leaders should focus on strategic planning and high-level decision-making.Continuous improvement is essential for effective leadership.Delegation allows leaders to maximize their time and resources.Monitoring junior leaders is crucial to prevent burnout and inefficiency.Actions can communicate distrust, even when intentions are good.Leadership is a continuous learning journey.#leadership #coaching #development#communication #trust #standards #management #commandpostcohortwww.commandpostcohort.comwww.outsiders-group.com

In this episode, Craig and Andrew discuss the concept of After Action Reviews (AARs), emphasizing their importance in fostering a culture of learning and improvement within teams. They outline the structure and purpose of AARs, highlighting the need for open communication, accountability, and trust. The conversation covers the four key questions to guide AARs, the significance of documenting outcomes, and the necessity of involving all team members in the process. The episode concludes with resources for implementing effective AARs in various organizational contexts.TakeawaysAARs are essential for team improvement and trust-building.The purpose of AARs is to learn from experiences, not to assign blame.Creating a safe environment is crucial for honest discussions.AARs should be conducted soon after events to capture accurate insights.Accountability and trust are fundamental to effective AARs.Involving everyone in the AAR process enhances understanding and communication.Documenting outcomes ensures that learnings are actionable.AARs can be scaled to fit any size of team or organization.Positive outcomes should also be recognized during AARs.Chapters08:22 The Structure and Purpose of AARs14:23 Conducting Effective AARs27:02 Implementing Lessons Learned from AARswww.commandpostcohort.comwww.outsiders-group.com After Action Review, AAR, team improvement, accountability, trust, learning culture, leadership, communication, feedback, performance

In this episode, Craig and Andrew discuss the significance of values in leadership and organizational culture. They explore how values guide actions, influence team dynamics, and impact customer loyalty. Through examples from companies like Chick-fil-A and Apple, they illustrate the importance of living values daily and the consequences of neglecting them. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to collaboratively develop and implement values within their organizations to foster a strong culture and drive success.TakeawaysValues are fundamental beliefs that guide actions.Organizational values should be lived, not just written.Values influence team dynamics and culture.Customer loyalty is driven by consistent values.Leaders must model the values they promote.Values should be developed collaboratively with the team.Ignoring values can lead to trust issues with customers.Values impact employee retention and attraction.Values are critical to overall business success.

In this episode, Craig and Andrew discuss the essential elements of performance improvement coaching, focusing on how leaders can effectively navigate difficult conversations with their team members. They emphasize the importance of maintaining standards, setting clear expectations, and identifying root causes of performance issues. The conversation also covers the development of actionable plans for improvement and the significance of follow-up and accountability in the coaching process. This episode aims to equip leaders with practical tools and strategies to enhance team performance and foster a supportive work environment.TakeawaysPerformance improvement coaching is essential for leaders.Difficult conversations can be constructive if approached correctly.Maintaining standards is crucial for team success.Clear expectations help prevent misunderstandings.Identifying root causes is key to solving performance issues.Action plans should involve both the leader and the employee.Regular follow-ups ensure accountability and progress.Leaders must provide resources and support for their team.Communication is vital in setting expectations and deadlines.Adjustments to plans can be made as needed to ensure success.www.commandpostcohort.comwww.outsiders-group.com