Is an MBA worth the time, money, and investment, or is real-world experience the better business education? In this episode of Commander’s Intent, Derek Oaks and Rob examine both sides of the MBA debate. An MBA can provide valuable knowledge in strategy, finance, operations, marketing, and business decision-making, but can a classroom really teach judgment, courage, culture, and leadership under pressure? They explore the dangers of analysis paralysis, relying too heavily on frameworks and da...
As AI becomes more powerful, will technology eventually replace the value of human networks, relationships, and experience? In this episode of Commander’s Intent, Derek Oaks sits down with Judd Borakove, a six-time C-suite executive, three-time exit leader, growth advisor, and co-founder of Talent Fueled, to explore why human connection may become even more valuable in an AI-driven world. Judd explains why AI can provide information, but it cannot fully replace the experience, judgment, trust...
A packed schedule can make you feel productive, but are the things filling your day actually moving you toward your vision? In this episode of Commander’s Intent, Derek Oaks and Rob Powell use a lesson from their military aviation careers, “cube out before you gross out,” to reveal what happens when leaders fill their time, teams, and organizations with tasks before prioritizing what matters most. They connect this aviation principle to the Eisenhower Matrix, leadership, time management...
Can changing your words change the way you lead? In this episode of Commander’s Intent, Derek Oaks sits down with speaker, author, leadership consultant, and podcaster Becky Kemp to explore the power of language in leadership. They discuss how our thoughts and words influence emotions, actions, decision-making, and results, and why great leadership begins with learning to lead yourself. Becky shares practical strategies for shifting from anger and frustration to curiosity, focusing on solutio...
What are you truly capable of, and how will you ever know if you never push yourself far enough to find out? In this episode of Commander’s Intent, retired Air Force Colonel and fighter pilot Derek Oaks shares the remarkable story of WWII fighter pilot JM Taylor, a member of the legendary Flying Tigers who survived being shot down, captured, and held as a prisoner of war. But it’s a story from Taylor’s pilot training that reveals an unforgettable lesson about pushing our limits. Determined to...