A discussion with Brian Stann covering his journey from the military to MMA, highlighting the importance of standards, discipline, and the burden of leadership. Topics include his entry into the Marine Corps, experiences in combat, transition to professional MMA, and his work supporting veterans through Hire Heroes USA and at-risk youth through martial arts programs.
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Quick takeaways
Setting high standards and demanding excellence is crucial in leadership roles.
Facing setbacks requires using time wisely, focusing on personal growth, and mental resilience.
Remembering fallen comrades through success and personal growth is a powerful form of memorialization.
Decentralized leadership and empowering team members are key to effective leadership in various contexts.
The weight of responsibility and guilt in leadership roles can be tempered by recognition and support from mentors.
Deep dives
The Importance of Discipline and Hard Work
The podcast episode delves into the significance of discipline, hard work, and commitment in both military and civilian contexts. It highlights the value of setting high standards, demanding excellence, and avoiding mediocrity. It emphasizes that being a leader means having the ability to listen and accept input, while still being the ultimate decision-maker. The episode also stresses the importance of humility and the need to balance being tough on your team with caring for them.
Overcoming Challenges and Adversities
The podcast discusses the speaker's personal experience of facing adversity during his journey, including delays and legal challenges. Despite these setbacks, he emphasizes the importance of using time wisely, getting better, and focusing on personal growth. The speaker's involvement in martial arts and his decision to participate in a fight demonstrate his commitment to preparing for challenges and developing mental resilience.
The Impact of Loss and Memorialization
The episode explores how the speaker coped with the loss of friends and fellow Marines during their deployments. The concept of memorialization is discussed, emphasizing the choice individuals have in remembering lost loved ones and how they can honor them by striving for success and personal growth. The speaker also highlights the importance of remembering fallen comrades and speaking their names as a means of remembrance and motivation.
The Journey Towards Leadership Excellence
The podcast highlights the speaker's path to becoming a leader and the lessons he learned from his mentors and experiences. The importance of decentralized leadership, empowering junior leaders, and maximizing the potential of every team member is emphasized. The speaker shares examples of influential leaders and role models in his life who taught him the significance of balance, discipline, and understanding in leadership. These principles are viewed as crucial not only in military settings but also in business and everyday life.
Leadership and Responsibility in Combat
During multiple deployments, the speaker takes on leadership roles and experiences the weight of responsibility for the lives of his Marines. He questions his decisions and experiences guilt after casualties occur, but finds solace in the recognition and support from his superiors.
Challenges and Progress in Combat Zones
The speaker recounts the challenges faced in combat zones like Habaniyah and Ramadi, where they were constantly under the threat of snipers, ambushes, and roadside bombs. Despite strict rules of engagement, progress is made as trust is built with the local population and schools and shops are reopened.
Loss and Reflection on Deployment
The speaker reflects on the loss of Marines during deployment and the personal guilt and second-guessing that follows. He highlights the importance of the mission and the dedication of his fellow service members, recognizing the sacrifices made to protect innocent lives and maintain control in chaotic circumstances.
MIT Teams and the Sacrifices Made
The speaker acknowledges the bravery and sacrifice of the Military Transition Teams (MIT) who live among Iraqi troops. He highlights the challenging living conditions and the willingness of these teams to put themselves at risk to train and support Iraqi soldiers. The speaker specifically mentions Travis Manion, a member of an MIT team, who was killed while trying to save fellow Iraqi soldiers in a firefight.
Summary of Podcast Episode
In this podcast episode, Brian Stan discusses his career in MMA and his transition to working with veterans. He emphasizes the importance of integrity and discipline in both fighting and life. Stan shares stories of his fights, including his victories and losses, and highlights the influence of mentors and coaches in his journey. He also discusses his work with Higher Heroes USA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans find meaningful employment. Stan underscores the significance of providing opportunities for veterans to succeed after their military service. Overall, the podcast explores the themes of discipline, perseverance, and the impact of mentorship in both the fighting world and veteran support programs.
Brian Stann, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, awarded the Silver Star, the nation's third-highest award for valor in combat. Retired UFC Fighter. UFC Commentator.
0:00:00 - Opening
0:04:25 - Brian Stann Intro and Background
0:11:52 - Importance of Standards and Discipline
0:21:56 - The Leadership Factory: What makes a good leader vs bad leader.
0:38:45 - Brian Stann Enters the Marine Corps
0:48:10 - Brian Stann's Entry To Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
0:54:00 - Combat Life
1:30:21 - The Burden of The Leader
1:44:34 - More Ops in Iraq
1:59:48 - Brian Stann Goes into Professional MMA & The UFC
2:18:55 - Hire Heroes USA - Jobs Program for Vets
2:21:27 - The Guardian Project - Martial Arts for At Risk Youth
