472: Avoiding the Pressure Won't Get You Anywhere. W/ Matt Hasby
Jan 8, 2025
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Matt Hasby, a retired Navy SEAL and leadership instructor at Echelon Front, shares insights from his remarkable 21-year military career. He discusses the emotional bonds forged in combat, revealing the profound resilience required amidst chaos. Matt reflects on personal growth through childhood struggles, the rigorous demands of SEAL training, and transitioning to civilian life. He emphasizes the importance of accountability, teamwork, and the leadership skills developed in high-stakes environments, offering a unique perspective on overcoming challenges.
Matt Hasby’s early experiences in North Dakota instilled in him a sense of mischief that later influenced his military career.
The importance of thorough preparation in combat was exemplified through Crazy Joe’s innovative techniques during the Ramadi mission.
Hasby’s childhood Taekwondo training played a pivotal role in fostering discipline and confidence, ultimately directing him toward military aspirations.
BUD/S training proved to be a life-altering challenge for Hasby, teaching him resilience and grit through extreme physical trials.
The emotional toll of losing teammates during combat highlighted the mental burdens faced by soldiers, fostering deep reflection and growth among them.
Following military service, Hasby transitioned successfully into the corporate world by leveraging leadership skills and seeking mentorship in new environments.
Deep dives
Initial Experience in Ramadi
The podcast recounts the early days of the mission in Ramadi, where the team was tasked with planning a battalion-sized operation. Upon arrival at Camp Corregidor, they faced immediate threats from mortars, IEDs, and sniper fire. To counter the insurgents, they quickly deployed snipers to secure the perimeter, leading to several successful engagements. Among the encounters, a sniper was injured when an RPG exploded, highlighting the brutal reality of the mission.
Engagement with Crazy Joe
During the planning phase, the speaker recalls a meeting with a seasoned company commander nicknamed Crazy Joe, who had extensive combat experience. This interaction emphasized the professionalism and commitment expected from each team member. Crazy Joe utilized innovative methods, such as rigging cameras on his Humvee to familiarize himself with the terrain. His proactive approach underscored the importance of thorough preparation in the tense environment of Ramadi.
Reality of Combat
Tensions escalated during an operation as the team experienced a sudden burst of machine gun fire and explosions nearby. As they attempted to maintain composure in the chaos, the reality of their dangerous circumstances became increasingly apparent. The podcast vividly captures the moment when an injured SEAL stumbled down from a sniper tower, showcasing the real dangers they faced. This incident was a stark reminder of the unpredictability of their environment and the imminent threat to their lives.
Matt Hasby's Childhood
The podcast takes a turn into exploring the upbringing of guest Matt Hasby, shedding light on his childhood in North Dakota. Raised primarily by a hard-working single mother, Hasby recalls lacking structure and supervision, leading to mischievous and impulsive behavior as a child. He mentions a couple of close calls, including attempting to start a fire indoors, which provided comic relief amidst heavier themes. His childhood experiences set the stage for his later adventures and challenges within the SEAL teams.
Influence of Taekwondo
Hasby discusses how taking Taekwondo classes in sixth grade changed his trajectory, instilling discipline and focus in him during a formative time. Despite initially being a shy kid, training in martial arts pushed him to become more confident. The instructors played a significant role in this transformation, pushing him to excel and compete in various tournaments. Ultimately, this experience laid the groundwork for Hasby's later commitment to the military and physical training.
Joining the Teams
The conversation transitions to Hasby's decision to join the Navy SEALs, which was influenced by his father's interest in Vietnam. After discovering the book 'Rogue Warrior,' his passion for becoming a SEAL intensified. Despite facing setbacks, such as minor legal troubles before shipping out to boot camp, Hasby's determination prevailed. His commitment to the goal drove him to push through challenges on his path to achieving his dream.
Life in SEAL Training
Training at BUD/S presented a grueling environment where Hasby faced both physical and mental challenges. He shares anecdotes from Hell Week, including how he almost succumbed to hypothermia due to lack of water. Overcoming this experience taught him invaluable lessons on resilience and grit. Initially struggling with running, he eventually improved through the help and guidance of fellow trainees.
Deployments and Combat Experience
Returning to the SEAL teams, Hasby recounts his numerous deployments, including time spent in Iraq. He discusses the stressful nature of combat, where every decision could have dire consequences. Each mission brought new challenges, requiring him to sharpen his tactical skills, especially in high-pressure scenarios. The camaraderie built among team members enhanced their operational effectiveness and made the experience more rewarding.
The Impact of Loss in Combat
The discussion delves into the emotional toll of losing teammates during combat, particularly the case of Mark Lee. Hasby shares how the experience left a significant impact on him and the team, creating a heavy atmosphere. Each person processed the loss uniquely, often leading to moments of reflection and soul-searching. The unpredictable nature of combat reinforced the importance of every man's life and the psychological burden that came with it.
Transitioning to Civilian Life
After serving multiple deployments, Hasby describes the challenges faced while reintegrating into civilian life. The stark contrasting lifestyle between combat zones and civilian environments posed difficulties in adjusting. He discusses how past experiences influenced his perspective on everyday interactions and relationships. Over time, he learned to adapt, embracing both the challenges and joys of post-military life.
Career after the Teams
Upon leaving the SEAL teams, Hasby embarked on new career paths, eventually joining a management consulting firm. He reflects on the transition from military life to civilian corporate culture, facing its own unique set of challenges. Through networking and seeking guidance from mentors, he found success as a consultant, although the experience was often frustrating. Ultimately, his journey through various professions led him to a fulfilling role in leadership training and development.
Reflections on Leadership
Hasby shares insights on leadership learned throughout his military career and subsequent corporate experience. He highlights the significance of adaptability, resilience, and effective communication when leading teams. Drawing parallels between military operations and business environments, he emphasizes the value of gaining trust and fostering collaboration among team members. By reflecting on his journey, he aims to inspire others to become better leaders in their respective fields.
Embracing the Future
As Hasby looks ahead, he expresses excitement for continued growth and opportunities in both personal and professional life. His experiences in the military and as a consultant have shaped him into a resourceful and capable individual. He remains dedicated to helping others develop their leadership skills while sharing the lessons learned during his extraordinary journey. Hasby recognizes that, despite challenges, there is always room for improvement and new adventures.
Matt is a retired Navy SEAL, combat leader, and Leadership Instructor at Echelon Front with a distinguished 21-year career. He began at SEAL Team Three and was part of Task Unit Bruiser with Leif Babin and Jocko Willink. Matt's combat and training experiences honed his leadership skills, allowing him to rise through the SEAL ranks and collaborate with various special operations teams. After retiring, he earned an MBA from UCLA's Anderson School of Management and worked as a management consultant, where he applied and validated Echelon Front’s strategies in business.
