273: Controversial Lessons from Being Put Through The Ringer. The Making Of A Soldier, by Col. Tony Herbert

This book provides a direct, situational, and pragmatic how-to guide for leaders. It mixes stories from Jocko Willink's military career and consulting business with practical advice on leadership. The book covers topics such as decentralizing command, building team pride, celebrating successes, and delivering truthful criticism. It aims to help leaders understand and apply leadership principles in a real-world context.

About Face is a compelling memoir by Colonel David Hackworth, detailing his experiences in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Hackworth's candid account offers a critical perspective on military leadership and policy, highlighting the challenges faced by soldiers on the ground. The book is known for its unflinching portrayal of combat and its insightful analysis of military strategy and politics. It also provides a personal reflection on the psychological toll of war and the importance of soldier welfare. Hackworth's writing style is direct and engaging, making the book accessible to a wide audience.

Final Spin is a story about Johnny, a young man stuck in a dead-end life, who takes drastic measures to save his brother Arty's laundromat, the one thing that brings Arty happiness. The novel explores themes of love, brotherhood, and sacrifice as Johnny navigates the consequences of his actions.

In this book, Jocko Willink and Leif Babin delve into the most challenging aspect of leading people: the dichotomy of leadership. They explain that effective leadership requires finding a balance between forces that pull leaders in opposite directions. Drawing from their combat experiences and leadership consulting work, the authors provide dynamic examples and practical advice on how to apply these leadership concepts in various contexts, including the battlefield, business, and personal life.

In 'Discipline Equals Freedom: Field Manual', Jocko Willink outlines the importance of discipline in achieving success and freedom in all aspects of life. Born from his experiences in the Navy SEALs, the book provides strategies and tactics for overcoming weakness, procrastination, and fear. It includes specific physical training workouts for different levels of athletes, as well as recommendations for optimal sleep habits and food intake. The book emphasizes the internal force of discipline, starting with simple actions like waking up early and extending to controlling emotions, making good decisions, and facing fears. Willink argues that discipline is the core principle that leads to strength, health, intelligence, and ultimately, freedom.

In 'Way of the Warrior Kid', Marc, who had a terrible fifth-grade year, is helped by his uncle Jake, a retired Navy SEAL. Uncle Jake devises a plan to turn Marc into a warrior by focusing on physical fitness, healthy eating, and academic improvement. The book emphasizes the importance of physical activity, mental sharpness, and hard work, all illustrated with comic-style art by Jon Bozak. It is the first installment in a series aimed at inspiring young readers to overcome their challenges.

This book by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin focuses on the principle of 'Extreme Ownership,' where leaders take full responsibility for their actions and decisions. The authors use their experiences in the U.S. Navy SEALs to illustrate how this mindset can lead to success in any organization. The book covers various principles such as believing in the mission, checking ego, and leading by example. It emphasizes that leaders must own all failures, develop plans to overcome them, and ensure their teams are well-conditioned and aligned with the mission. The authors also stress the importance of humility, discipline, and effective communication in leadership.

Anthony Herbert's "Soldier" provides a raw and unflinching account of his experiences in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The book vividly portrays the brutality of combat, the psychological toll on soldiers, and the moral dilemmas they face. Herbert's narrative emphasizes his dedication to his men and his unwavering commitment to truth and justice. The book also explores the political machinations and bureaucratic hurdles he encountered throughout his career. It serves as a powerful and often controversial reflection on war, leadership, and the human condition.

Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Herbert's "The Making of a Soldier" offers a gripping account of his military career, starting from his childhood in a coal mining town to his experiences in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The book delves into the harsh realities of combat, showcasing both the heroism and the moral complexities faced by soldiers. Herbert's narrative highlights his unwavering commitment to his men and his struggles against a bureaucratic system. The book also touches upon the controversies surrounding his accusations of war crimes and his subsequent battles within the military establishment. It remains a powerful testament to the human spirit and the enduring challenges of war.