How do you lead in crisis when every protocol breaks down? You listen, adapt—and bring the volleyballs.

From night landings in sandstorms to leading sailors mid-pandemic, Navy pilot (and Jeff's personal hero/brother!) Patrick Lakusta shares the messy, human side of leadership in high-stakes environments. In this episode, Patrick opens up about taking command of a Joint Strike Fighter Squadron, the emotional complexity of military transitions, and the unexpected ways transparency and humor sustained his team through COVID isolation.

With wisdom forged in flight simulators, quarantine gyms, and desert skies, Patrick reflects on prioritizing what matters, staying grounded under pressure, and leading with integrity—even when the lights go out and the runway disappears.

Tune in for a personal conversation about crisis, clarity, and the triangle of leadership that guides him forward: mission, family, sailor.

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99 Humans is a multimedia platform centered on humanizing leadership. Hosts Jeff Lakusta and Nadia Carta interview a group of cross-industry leaders, seeking stories about the human side of leadership. Join us and share your story:

www.99Humans.com | linkedin.com/company/99-humans