
The Warrior Poet
**Get yourself unstuck and be a leader.** Andrew "Sri" Sridhar is a former Navy SEAL, Harvard MBA, Wall Street escapee, and technologist. He interviews top military leaders, academic thinkers, and business phenoms to up your game. The Warrior Poet is a tightly woven tapestry of leadership expertise, philosophical inquiry, and pop culture. It's a portmanteau of Brainpickings, Wait But Why, and (Sri only wishes) Seinfeld. Yes, Sri sometimes writes haikus.
Latest episodes

Jul 16, 2025 • 59min
#95: Level Up Your Culture w Rachel Wilson Rugelsjøen
Sri takes the show to Oslo, Norway 🇳🇴, where he and Rachel Wilson Rugelsjøen talk all things culture and leadership through the lens of Human Resources. 🙉 They have the realest debate on psychological safety you'll find anywhere. Plus everyone's favorite topic: cold plunges 🥶____Rachel is the founder and managing director of LevelUp HR, which "help[s] global corporates, SME’s and scale-up’s achieve, through your most valuable asset - your people."Her experience spans over 20 years leading human capital at top-tier companies like Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, the Norwegian Oil Fund, Cognizant, and Barclays Capital — where she and Sri overlapped without knowing it! ____highlights"The leadership game has changed."How founders can build an effective cultureRole of values in leadershipAmazon's leadership principlesOwnership and accountabilityNorwegian vs. UK vs. American perspectives on ownershipHuman nature and leadership challengesThe evolution of leadership through historyHow to navigate instability Nuances of team dynamicsCold showers and dopamine regulationPsychological safety: just a buzzword? Trust as the foundation ____💬 Have a question? Shoot us a text! 📌 FEELING STUCK? LIMITED TIME: Book a free clarity call with Sri to get your priorities in order and start getting unstuck. 📩 Get free elite performance tools weekly through the Warrior Poet newsletter 👉 join ✅_____Follow Sri for elite leadership tips: ➡️ LinkedIn.com/in/andrewsridhar Connect on Instagram: @sri_the_warrior_poet + @sri_actually Intro and/or outro music in most episodes is by Paul Sridhar. 🎧 Disclaimer: Any audio clips are included with every intent and steps taken to abide by Fair Use and serve the purpose(s) of illustration, education, augmentation, or promotion of source content.

Jun 10, 2025 • 57min
#94: Lead to Succeed w/ Jill Avey
"Your work does not have a voice. You have to share what you're doing." —Jill AveyGet the results you deserve — not the ones you hope for. Sri and Jill Avey discuss how to lead in complex corporate environments -- in ways that are authentic, moral, yet tangibly rewarding. Topics: How to self-promote (in a non-cringy way 😬)Gender differences in leadershipPositive intelligence theory Navigating office politics Networking productivelyHow to build confidence'Mental saboteurs' that hinder your progressJill is a successful corporate marketing executive formerly at Timberland and Propet USA. She has an MBA from Columbia Business School and is the founder of SisterSmart, which aims to help women succeed in attaining the executive positions they deserve. Find Jill here: https://sistersmart.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillavey/keywords: leadership, women in leadership, workplace relationships, radical candor, self-promotion, career development, communication skills, networking, personal branding, professional growth, leadership, courage, fear, positive intelligence, saboteurs, gender differences, women in leadership, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, collaboration💬 Have a question? Shoot us a text! 📌 FEELING STUCK? LIMITED TIME: Book a free clarity call with Sri to get your priorities in order and start getting unstuck. 📩 Get free elite performance tools weekly through the Warrior Poet newsletter 👉 join ✅_____Follow Sri for elite leadership tips: ➡️ LinkedIn.com/in/andrewsridhar Connect on Instagram: @sri_the_warrior_poet + @sri_actually Intro and/or outro music in most episodes is by Paul Sridhar. 🎧 Disclaimer: Any audio clips are included with every intent and steps taken to abide by Fair Use and serve the purpose(s) of illustration, education, augmentation, or promotion of source content.

May 13, 2025 • 35min
#93: How to Be a Quality Leader
Sri and Brandon Jenkins do a Round 2. This time they discuss the role of a leader when it comes to delivering quality. And Sri has a household mishap. 💬 Have a question? Shoot us a text! 📌 FEELING STUCK? LIMITED TIME: Book a free clarity call with Sri to get your priorities in order and start getting unstuck. 📩 Get free elite performance tools weekly through the Warrior Poet newsletter 👉 join ✅_____Follow Sri for elite leadership tips: ➡️ LinkedIn.com/in/andrewsridhar Connect on Instagram: @sri_the_warrior_poet + @sri_actually Intro and/or outro music in most episodes is by Paul Sridhar. 🎧 Disclaimer: Any audio clips are included with every intent and steps taken to abide by Fair Use and serve the purpose(s) of illustration, education, augmentation, or promotion of source content.

Apr 14, 2025 • 1h 26min
#92: The Golden Path Fallacy w/ Brandon Jenkins
Sri and Brandon Jenkins talk about optimizing your mind as a leader -- as well as finding systems that work for you (not the other way around). Brandon "Jenks" Jenkins is a former Navy helicopter pilot and squadron commander. He founded Tier One coaching, which helps growth-minded leaders to align purpose with impact so they lead with confidence and elevate their teams. Jenks is a Naval Academy grad and has an MBA from the University of Florida. 💬 Have a question? Shoot us a text! 📌 FEELING STUCK? LIMITED TIME: Book a free clarity call with Sri to get your priorities in order and start getting unstuck. 📩 Get free elite performance tools weekly through the Warrior Poet newsletter 👉 join ✅_____Follow Sri for elite leadership tips: ➡️ LinkedIn.com/in/andrewsridhar Connect on Instagram: @sri_the_warrior_poet + @sri_actually Intro and/or outro music in most episodes is by Paul Sridhar. 🎧 Disclaimer: Any audio clips are included with every intent and steps taken to abide by Fair Use and serve the purpose(s) of illustration, education, augmentation, or promotion of source content.

Apr 9, 2025 • 50min
#91: Poking LinkedIn w/ Michael Kainatsky
Michael Kainatsky shares how to build REAL relationships and recognition in a crowded world full of useless content. Sri and Michael's discussion includes: Challenging the conventional approach to social media Genuine interactions over vanity metricsHow to provoke real thought and engagement The lurker effect Combating content-creation procrastinationWhat a personal brand really isHow to start postingHow a give-first mindset fosters genuine relationshipsMichael is a 20+-year sales professional and Chief Strategy Officer at House of Bricks. Reach out to Michael on LinkedIn. keywordssocial media, LinkedIn, authenticity, engagement, content creation, metrics, personal reflection, humor, seasons, mood, LinkedIn, mindfulness, human connection, personal branding, authenticity, social media impact, overcoming barriers, content creation, sales strategies, personal growth💬 Have a question? Shoot us a text! 📌 FEELING STUCK? LIMITED TIME: Book a free clarity call with Sri to get your priorities in order and start getting unstuck. 📩 Get free elite performance tools weekly through the Warrior Poet newsletter 👉 join ✅_____Follow Sri for elite leadership tips: ➡️ LinkedIn.com/in/andrewsridhar Connect on Instagram: @sri_the_warrior_poet + @sri_actually Intro and/or outro music in most episodes is by Paul Sridhar. 🎧 Disclaimer: Any audio clips are included with every intent and steps taken to abide by Fair Use and serve the purpose(s) of illustration, education, augmentation, or promotion of source content.

Feb 10, 2025 • 1h 35min
#90: Neuroscience of CBD w/ Will Kleidon
"The endocannabinoid system regulates all these other systems." -Will KleidonSri learns *all* about CBD from futurist and entrepreneur Will Kleidon (LinkedIn). Will is the founder and CEO of Ojai Energetics, the first company to create organic, water-soluble CBD, which also has third-party testing that is traceable to the lot on your product. Will goes deep into the science of CBD in terms of human benefits, affects on pets, and safe manufacturing. He and Sri cover uses for: PTSDbetter sleeppeak performanceThey also cover: the best recipe for flow states (caffeine + CBD)what the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is and how it worksthe neuroscience of CBDreduction of inflammationquantum biologyRhabdomyolysis (Rabdo)early agriculturehow all vertebrates have an ECSCheck out the research for yourself on Pubmed. #cannabinoids, CBD, THC, health, recovery, exercise, inflammation, wellness, endocannabinoid system, quantum biology, flow state, PTSD, neuroscience, neurodiversity, health benefits, serum, stress response💬 Have a question? Shoot us a text! 📌 FEELING STUCK? LIMITED TIME: Book a free clarity call with Sri to get your priorities in order and start getting unstuck. 📩 Get free elite performance tools weekly through the Warrior Poet newsletter 👉 join ✅_____Follow Sri for elite leadership tips: ➡️ LinkedIn.com/in/andrewsridhar Connect on Instagram: @sri_the_warrior_poet + @sri_actually Intro and/or outro music in most episodes is by Paul Sridhar. 🎧 Disclaimer: Any audio clips are included with every intent and steps taken to abide by Fair Use and serve the purpose(s) of illustration, education, augmentation, or promotion of source content.

Feb 3, 2025 • 59min
#89: Find Your Unique Voice w/ Brian Lafontaine
Sri discusses the self-discovery journey with Brian Lafontaine (imdb | website | LinkedIn | Instagram). Brian is a professional actor whose long career has included roles in: OzarkStranger Things Dawson's Creek One Tree HillHomeland NashvilleTURN: Washington's SpiesThe Hate U GiveOuter BanksBrian coaches high achievers in public speaking. Brian shares his life and career lessons through the (harsh) lens of entertainment. Work habits Building confidenceThe value of vulnerabilitySetting career boundariesHow Brian overcame self-doubt How to balance two jobs/businesses Brian's battles with procrastination (and how to solve it) Brian's 1-Liners of Gold"I know all the tricks, man.""I'm a grand wizard of procrastination.""Preparation is key in this business.""Fear of failure, fear of success.""I'm a person, I'm a human.""You didn't get here by mistake.""You keep it inside for a reason."#voiceover, public speaking, acting career, performance, boundaries, work habits, procrastination, coaching, storytelling, entertainment industry, acting, procrastination, self-doubt, entertainment industry, confidence, risk-taking, personal growth, public speaking, vulnerability, career advice💬 Have a question? Shoot us a text! 📌 FEELING STUCK? LIMITED TIME: Book a free clarity call with Sri to get your priorities in order and start getting unstuck. 📩 Get free elite performance tools weekly through the Warrior Poet newsletter 👉 join ✅_____Follow Sri for elite leadership tips: ➡️ LinkedIn.com/in/andrewsridhar Connect on Instagram: @sri_the_warrior_poet + @sri_actually Intro and/or outro music in most episodes is by Paul Sridhar. 🎧 Disclaimer: Any audio clips are included with every intent and steps taken to abide by Fair Use and serve the purpose(s) of illustration, education, augmentation, or promotion of source content.

Jan 27, 2025 • 1h 2min
#88: 5 Disciplines of Leadership w/ Chris Rogers
Sri talks with career U.S. Army officer Chris Rogers about his 5 Disciplines of Leadership. Think of Chris as the James Clear of leadership. Chris is an instructor for Simon Sinek Inc. and also runs his own consultancy. Chris didn't just lead in the Army over 30 years, he taught other officers how to lead, strategize, and execute. So his expertise is unparalleled. Chris also talks about:His transition from the military to the private sectorStrategic vs. operational leadership Managing emotions as a leaderCommunication skillsActive listeningBuilding habitsInfluenceReach out to Chris: crogersusa@gmail.comFREE DOWNLOAD: A summary of Chris' 5 Disciplines model is available on The Warrior Poet website here (no email required).---TakeawaysLeadership is a journey, not a destination.Active listening is one of the hardest skills for leaders.Emotions are natural, but how we respond is key.Effective communication is essential for influence.Continuous learning is crucial for leadership development.Thoughtful reflection helps improve the quality of ideas.Building time into your calendar for reflection is vital.The five disciplines of leadership can enhance effectiveness.Creating a culture of initiative empowers team members.Understanding different perspectives broadens problem-solving capabilities.leadership, healthcare, military transition, five disciplines, emotional intelligence, active listening, effective communication, continuous learning, thoughtful reflection, personal development, veteran💬 Have a question? Shoot us a text! 📌 FEELING STUCK? LIMITED TIME: Book a free clarity call with Sri to get your priorities in order and start getting unstuck. 📩 Get free elite performance tools weekly through the Warrior Poet newsletter 👉 join ✅_____Follow Sri for elite leadership tips: ➡️ LinkedIn.com/in/andrewsridhar Connect on Instagram: @sri_the_warrior_poet + @sri_actually Intro and/or outro music in most episodes is by Paul Sridhar. 🎧 Disclaimer: Any audio clips are included with every intent and steps taken to abide by Fair Use and serve the purpose(s) of illustration, education, augmentation, or promotion of source content.

Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 1min
#87: Live Your Best Life w/ Jordan Paris
Sri talks with Jordan Paris, real estate entrepreneur, CEO of Zeus, and host of The Jordan Paris Show. They talk about how to get real with yourself in order to get unstuck and live your best life. Plus, Jordan walks through his real estate investing strategy. 💬 Have a question? Shoot us a text! 📌 FEELING STUCK? LIMITED TIME: Book a free clarity call with Sri to get your priorities in order and start getting unstuck. 📩 Get free elite performance tools weekly through the Warrior Poet newsletter 👉 join ✅_____Follow Sri for elite leadership tips: ➡️ LinkedIn.com/in/andrewsridhar Connect on Instagram: @sri_the_warrior_poet + @sri_actually Intro and/or outro music in most episodes is by Paul Sridhar. 🎧 Disclaimer: Any audio clips are included with every intent and steps taken to abide by Fair Use and serve the purpose(s) of illustration, education, augmentation, or promotion of source content.

Jan 13, 2025 • 1h 6min
#86: Mindful Leadership w/ Jon Macaskill
"Meditation saved my life." --Jon MacaskillSri talks with former Navy SEAL commander and leadership speaker Jon Macaskill. Jon is also host of the podcast Men Talking Mindfulness. They discuss: How to recharge to prevent burnoutThe role of people-pleasing in burnout and anxietyStress reductionHow to begin meditating Leadership lessons through sportsTrust and delegation How to find purpose Gratitude as a superpower___💬 Have a question? Shoot us a text! 📌 FEELING STUCK? LIMITED TIME: Book a free clarity call with Sri to get your priorities in order and start getting unstuck. 📩 Get free elite performance tools weekly through the Warrior Poet newsletter 👉 join ✅_____Follow Sri for elite leadership tips: ➡️ LinkedIn.com/in/andrewsridhar Connect on Instagram: @sri_the_warrior_poet + @sri_actually Intro and/or outro music in most episodes is by Paul Sridhar. 🎧 Disclaimer: Any audio clips are included with every intent and steps taken to abide by Fair Use and serve the purpose(s) of illustration, education, augmentation, or promotion of source content.