Jocko Podcast 135: Supreme Excellence with Discomfort and Extreme Ownership. With Dave Berke.
Jul 25, 2018
Dave Berke, a former Marine Corps fighter pilot and Top Gun instructor, shares his riveting experiences in leadership and sacrifice. He explores the psychological burdens of war, emphasizing the importance of extreme ownership in leadership roles. The conversation dives into personal growth through continuous learning, using jiu-jitsu as a metaphor. Berke also highlights the power of communication and trust in high-pressure situations, while honoring the legacy of fallen comrades. His insights reflect on the complexity and responsibility of military leadership.
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Renewed Perspective on Military History
- Dave Berke returned to military history later in his career with renewed perspective after his combat experience in Ramadi.
- He realized that knowing the context deeply changes how you interpret historical accounts and leadership lessons.
Combat Shapes Historical Understanding
- Combat experiences shape how leaders interpret history and human suffering in war.
- Even small combat deployments provide invaluable context to understand the sacrifices and mental toll of war.
Trial By Fire in Ramadi
- Dave Berke quickly faced the brutal reality of combat on his first day in Ramadi with an IED injuring a major.
- Being busy with leadership tasks helped him manage fear and make decisions effectively in combat.