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In this episode, Joe Byerly talks with CSM Walter J. Zajkowski, Senior Enlisted Leader of Special Operations Command Pacific. With 30 years of service, CSM Zajkowski reflects on his journey from young Ranger to senior leader, sharing lessons on leadership growth, feedback, and learning from both great and challenging leaders.

Key topics include:

The role of ego in leadership and how embracing tough assignments can lead to transformation.
The importance of supplementing formal education with reading and self-reflection.
How to give people what they need, not just what they want, to develop strong, capable teams.
The power of identifying and living your "why" to stay aligned with purpose.

This conversation is packed with actionable advice and reflections for leaders at every level.

Command Sergeant Major Zajkowski is the Command Senior Enlisted Leader,
Special Operations Command Pacific (SOCPAC), headquartered at Camp H.M.
Smith, Hawaii.

Prior to his assignment at SOCPAC, he served as the Command Sergeant Major
of 3rd Operational Support Group (2021-2022). Previous positions of responsibility
include Battalion CSM, Force Generation Directorate SGM, Selection and Training
SGM, Company SGM, Operations SGM, Training Instructor/Writer, Team
Sergeant, and Team Member. CSM Zajkowski began his Army career in 2nd
Battalion 75th Ranger Regiment (1994-1999) where he served as a Rifleman,
Team Leader, and Squad Leader.

He enlisted in the Army in 1994 and served in multiple leadership positions within
the joint special operations community.

Command Sergeant Major Zajkowski deployed in support of multiple combat operations to include Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Inherent Resolve.

His awards and decorations include the Silver Star, Legion of Merit w/C device, Bronze Star w/Valor, Purple Heart, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal w/Valor device,
Combat Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, Combat Diver Badge, Military Free Fall Jumpmaster Badge.

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Astrobiologist Dr. Graham Lau