Navy SEAL And CEO Jimmy May On Leadership Lessons From The Military, Training Leaders And Community Service
Apr 2, 2024
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Retired Navy SEAL Commander Jimmy May shares insights on leadership, combat ethics training, and community service. Topics include perseverance in elite training, maintaining high standards, leadership skills in challenging situations, resilience in leadership, transitioning from military to civilian life, and supporting veterans' mental health transition.
Discipline surpasses motivation for long-term success.
Early childhood events can shape career choices significantly.
Supporting veterans in transitioning to civilian life requires mentorship and community engagement.
Deep dives
Importance of Discipline Over Motivation
Discipline is highlighted as crucial over motivation in achieving goals. The speaker emphasizes that while motivation may fade, discipline remains constant, essential for overcoming challenges. The distinction between relying on fleeting motivation and consistent discipline is emphasized to achieve success, especially during difficult times when motivation wanes.
The Impact of Early Childhood Experiences
Childhood experiences can influence career paths significantly. The podcast guest, a retired Navy SEAL commander, reflects on a childhood event involving standing up to a bully, revealing a pivotal moment that shaped his identity. This incident sparked a unique trajectory, showing how early experiences can shape one's resilience and determination in pursuing challenging careers.
Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
The transition from military to civilian life poses challenges, especially after a long military career. The guest emphasizes the importance of finding a mentor to guide through this pivotal change. Sharing personal experiences and seeking mentorship, the guest navigates the shift from the tactical to operational levels, highlighting the significance of mentorship in successful transitions.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Business Strategy
Venturing into entrepreneurial endeavors post-retirement showcases a diverse range of business ventures. From starting a sushi catering service to executive adventure experiences, the guest delves into the dynamics of business diversity. Discussing keynote speaking engagements and executive training, the podcast guest demonstrates a strategic approach to business development and creating unique experiences for corporate teams.
Supporting Veterans Transition
The podcast episode delves into the importance of supporting veterans transitioning to civilian life, focusing on the challenges they face with purpose, goals, and community after leaving the military. Initiatives like 'Beyond the Brotherhood' offer crucial screenings and resources to help veterans find new paths and networks, ensuring they have the support and guidance needed to navigate this transition successfully.
Teaching Resilience and Leading with Vulnerability
Discussing the concept of resilience, the episode emphasizes the necessity of leaders admitting failures to cultivate a culture of learning and growth within their organizations. By sharing personal struggles and setbacks, leaders can humanize themselves and encourage empathy among team members, fostering resilience through shared experiences and constructive after-action reflections. Additionally, the importance of modeling mistakes, promoting a healthy attitude towards failure, and building empathy are highlighted as key factors in developing resilience at all stages of life.
Jimmy May is a retired Navy SEAL Commander and a renowned figure in leadership and combat ethics training. With over 22 years of distinguished service, including seven deployments to the Middle East, Commander May has earned various honors, including 3 Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart. Jimmy’s post-military journey is equally impressive, marked by his roles as CEO of Sushi Assassin, Mayday Executive Services, and the non-profit, Beyond the Brotherhood. A Texas A&M alum and Harvard graduate, he’s known for his expertise in creating top-tier teams through intense shared experiences. Fluent in Arabic and passionate about spearfishing, surfing, martial arts, and beekeeping, he resides in San Diego, doing good things for good people.
Jimmy joined host Robert Glazer to discuss his military career, leadership lessons from his service, serving the community and much more.