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    Jocko Podcast

    395: Building a Powerful Culture Around Your Organization. With Leif Babin

    Wed Jul 19 2023
    CultureMilitarySEAL TeamsLeadershipAppearanceUniformityLanguageConfidenceHumilitySymbolsAchievementsRelationshipsHistoryFitnessPersonal Development

    Description

    This episode explores the importance of culture within organizations, focusing on the military and SEAL teams. It discusses how culture influences strategic goals, attitudes towards the enemy, and operational excellence. The episode emphasizes the need for control and alignment of culture with rules and regulations, as well as the role of leadership in shaping culture. It also highlights the significance of appearance, uniformity, language, symbols, and achievements in building a strong culture. The importance of relationships, understanding others' expertise, history, confidence, humility, and training is explored. The episode concludes with insights on fitness tips, Jocko Fuel products, and resources for personal development.

    Insights

    Culture is a powerful force

    Culture within organizations, such as the military and SEAL teams, plays a crucial role in shaping strategic goals, attitudes towards the enemy, and operational excellence.

    Control and alignment of culture

    It is important to control and align culture with rules and regulations to prevent problems and ensure a strong organizational culture.

    Leadership's role in shaping culture

    Leaders can set the initial culture in motion, but culture becomes more powerful than the leader over time. Everyone in an organization is responsible for shaping the culture.

    The significance of appearance and uniformity

    Appearance and uniformity play a role in establishing a professional and cohesive culture. They contribute to positive identification, pride, and professionalism.

    Language shapes behavior and identity

    Language used within an organization shapes its culture, identity, and camaraderie. Specific phrases or expressions can become ingrained in the way people function and operate.

    Building confidence and maintaining humility

    Confidence is important for success, but arrogance can lead to complacency. Maintaining humility while being able to execute as a team is crucial.

    Symbols and achievements in building culture

    Symbols, such as unit patches, and meaningful achievements contribute to building a unique identity and fostering pride within an organization.

    The importance of relationships and understanding others' expertise

    Showing respect, professionalism, and understanding towards others, including soldiers, Marines, and different military units, is crucial for building good relationships and cooperation.

    The role of history in shaping culture

    Knowing and propagating a company's history fosters pride, identity, and a sense of responsibility within military units.

    Fitness tips and personal development resources

    The episode provides fitness tips, highlights Jocko Fuel products, and recommends resources like Extreme Ownership Academy for personal development.

    Chapters

    1. The Importance of Culture in Organizations
    2. Controlling and Aligning Culture with Rules and Regulations
    3. Culture as the Ultimate Form of Decentralized Command
    4. Setting Examples and Establishing Identity
    5. The Importance of Appearance and Uniformity
    6. The Significance of Looking Squared Away
    7. Establishing Values and Mantras
    8. The Importance of Looking Uniform
    9. Building Good Relationships and Understanding Others' Expertise
    10. Building High-Performance Teams and Explaining Expectations
    11. The Role of History and Identity in Culture
    12. The Influence of Language on Culture
    13. The Power of Language in Shaping Behavior and Attitudes
    14. Building Confidence and Maintaining Humility
    15. The Power of Confidence in Execution
    16. Creating Symbols and Unifying Culture
    17. Building Identity through Symbols and Achievements
    18. The Role of Jocko Fuel in Supporting Culture
    19. Fitness and Training Tips
    20. The Importance of Training and Discipline
    Summary
    Transcript

    The Importance of Culture in Organizations

    00:00 - 07:44

    • Discipline in the military starts with small things like haircuts and uniforms.
    • Task Unit Bruiser SEALs adopted the habits of their Army counterparts when training Iraqi soldiers.
    • The discussion revolves around the importance of culture within organizations.
    • The Marine Corps and SEAL teams are highlighted as having strong cultures.
    • There are both positive and negative aspects to any culture.
    • SEAL teams have a flexible approach due to lack of doctrine, but bending rules can be detrimental at times.
    • Cheating is discouraged but some instructors may push it while others enforce following the rules.
    • Culture influences strategic goals and attitudes towards the enemy in special operations warfare.

    Controlling and Aligning Culture with Rules and Regulations

    07:16 - 14:35

    • Culture is important for organizations, but it needs to be controlled and aligned with rules and regulations.
    • The Marine Corps had to shift its culture from killing everyone in war to being diplomatic in peacetime.
    • Having control over culture is crucial as it can cause problems if left unchecked.
    • Discipline and training are essential for building a strong culture within military units.
    • Tesla has a culture of working long hours and grinding it out.
    • Culture shifts can happen with strong leadership, like Elon Musk did at Tesla and SpaceX.
    • Culture is more powerful than the leader over time, but leaders can set the initial culture in motion.
    • Everyone in an organization is responsible for shaping the culture, including mid-level managers.
    • Establishing a good culture requires thought and effort, as it ultimately becomes a form of decentralized command.

    Culture as the Ultimate Form of Decentralized Command

    14:16 - 21:26

    • Culture is the ultimate form of decentralized command within an organization.
    • Culture encompasses who you are, what you are, what you do, and how you do it.
    • Setting the example is crucial in establishing culture.
    • Elon Musk's work ethic and dedication set the culture at Tesla and SpaceX.
    • SEAL Team One had a strong culture of extreme professionalism compared to other Navy teams.
    • Each SEAL team had its own geographical assignment in the past, but that changed around 2000.
    • SEAL Team Five had a reputation for being laid back and partying hard.
    • The speaker initially had orders for SEAL Team One but ended up joining SEAL Team Five during their work-up cycle.
    • There was still some remnants of the old culture at SEAL Team Five when the speaker joined.

    Setting Examples and Establishing Identity

    21:00 - 27:27

    • Master Chief Faculty reprimanded a friend for wearing a visor during a run
    • Setting the example is important in establishing culture within an organization
    • Giving your team a name can create a sense of identity and unity
    • Hackworth's practice of renaming units had a lasting impact on SEAL teams
    • The name 'Tasking a Bruiser' gave the team an identity and set them apart from others
    • General Mukayama recognized Hackworth's impressive appearance and demeanor upon his arrival

    The Importance of Appearance and Uniformity

    26:58 - 33:25

    • General Mukayama recalls how Hackworth's appearance and demeanor set a strong example
    • Jaco, as the Admiral's aide, also presented himself with a shaved head and impeccable uniform
    • This established a unique and hardworking culture within Task Unit Bruiser
    • At SEAL Team One, Jocko noticed an Ensign from the Seaman Animal Program with an exceptional uniform
    • Uniform inspections at Officer Candidate School (OCS) taught Jocko the importance of a squared away appearance
    • Jocko and Seth Stone had immaculate uniforms during BUD/S training
    • A funny story about Jocko telling his assistant platoon commander to get a haircut even though he just got one
    • The coolness factor in the SEAL teams used to be associated with being an awesome operator regardless of appearance
    • Task Unit Bruiser changed that perception by emphasizing both operational excellence and a squared away appearance

    The Significance of Looking Squared Away

    33:08 - 39:14

    • Being a squared away operator is cool and professional.
    • Being squared away in both battlefield and garrison is important.
    • Some SEALs don't focus on their appearance or uniform.
    • SEALs can't compete with Marine platoons in inspections.
    • Setting values and mantras from the start can be beneficial, but it's better if they evolve organically over time.
    • A good compromise is to set minimum aspirational ideas that are hard to argue with.
    • Looking squared away and inspection ready is an important leading idea.

    Establishing Values and Mantras

    38:53 - 45:36

    • Setting values and mantras in a team should be minimum aspirational ideas that are hard to argue with
    • Values like working hard and being exceptional at jobs can be easily embraced
    • Mantras should come organically and become part of the culture, like BTF (Big Tough Frogman)
    • BTF became a versatile term used as an adjective, noun, verb, and motivational chant
    • BTF answered questions about decision-making in challenging situations
    • Cheating can become part of the culture if not addressed properly
    • Some SEAL teams debated cutting corners in training exercises
    • BTF mantra emphasized not cutting corners and pushing standards higher
    • Foot patrols were necessary in dangerous areas where driving was risky
    • The BTF mantra prepared SEALs for challenging situations during deployment
    • Tradette debriefs helped improve training performance and identify areas for improvement

    The Importance of Looking Uniform

    45:17 - 51:17

    • The speaker discusses the culture of tasking a bruiser and the importance of looking uniform.
    • The speaker recalls a conversation with Seth Stoner about the idea of looking uniform, which initially seemed insane to them.
    • The speaker mentions pushback from the platoon regarding the idea of looking uniform.
    • The speaker and Seth Stoner approached Jocko about their concerns, but Jocko asked them how cool it would be if everyone looked like stormtroopers.
    • The idea of everyone looking the same appealed to the speaker and Seth Stoner, and they realized it would set them apart from other task units.
    • They presented the idea to the team as something awesome rather than something demanded by Jocko, and people embraced it.
    • Looking uniform also helped with positive identification (PID) and prevented being mistaken for enemy fighters.
    • The speaker recalls an incident where Stoner wore a Mujahideen scarf but quickly removed it when questioned by Jocko.
    • Looking uniform made them feel professional and part of a gang.

    Building Good Relationships and Understanding Others' Expertise

    56:57 - 1:04:11

    • Showing respect and professionalism towards soldiers and Marines is crucial for building good relationships in the battle space.
    • Conventional forces control geographic areas, and permission must be obtained to enter those areas.
    • Acting arrogantly or disrespectfully can hinder cooperation and cause problems.
    • First impressions matter, and appearance plays a role in how one is perceived.
    • Company commanders and battalion commanders have extensive combat experience and should be treated with respect.
    • SEAL teams can sometimes operate in isolation, which may lead to a lack of awareness about the experiences of other military units.

    Building High-Performance Teams and Explaining Expectations

    1:03:42 - 1:10:15

    • Isolation and lack of interoperability can lead to a skewed perspective on military experience
    • Example of a SEAL questioning a Marine's knowledge, highlighting the need for understanding others' expertise
    • Building a high-performance team requires holding people accountable while explaining the importance of standards
    • Educating and training frontline troopers on the significance of their work helps create a winning culture
    • Explaining the 'why' behind expectations is critical for alignment and motivation
    • History plays a role in shaping identity and fostering pride within military units

    The Role of History and Identity in Culture

    1:10:05 - 1:17:08

    • Understanding where you came from helps shape your behavior
    • Examples of SEAL culture emphasize not leaving teammates behind
    • Knowing a company's history and overcoming challenges builds pride and culture
    • Propagating the story of a company's history is important for establishing a strong culture
    • Reading about SEAL history instills pride and a sense of responsibility in new officers
    • Young SEALs represent fallen comrades and should reflect positively on their sacrifice
    • Culture is primarily focused on the internal organization, but can be appreciated externally

    The Influence of Language on Culture

    1:16:43 - 1:23:04

    • Culture is focused on the internal organization and propagating the story within.
    • Being part of an organization's history and making a mark is important.
    • Different special operations units had different approaches to operating at night or during the day.
    • Explaining the reasons behind unconventional tactics is crucial for understanding.
    • Language used within an organization shapes its culture and identity.

    The Power of Language in Shaping Behavior and Attitudes

    1:22:38 - 1:28:59

    • The language you use creates a culture.
    • Choosing specific language can shape behavior and attitudes.
    • Language used in military units can foster unit identity and pride.
    • Using specific greetings and responses can create a sense of camaraderie.
    • Initially, some may view the language as meaningless, but over time it becomes ingrained in the way people function and operate.
    • Language choice has a massive impact on organizational culture.
    • Prioritizing relationships is crucial in an organization.
    • Language can reinforce the importance of relationships within an organization.
    • Using specific phrases or expressions repeatedly helps shape behavior and mindset.
    • Initial skepticism or mockery may give way to acceptance and adoption of the language used within an organization.
    • Outperforming others can lead to a sense of pride and unity within a unique unit.
    • Taking pride in being able to accomplish tasks that others cannot fosters a strong team identity.

    Building Confidence and Maintaining Humility

    1:28:35 - 1:35:11

    • The speaker takes pride in being able to go places that others couldn't go.
    • They had a strong level of confidence that they were outworking and outperforming others.
    • Arrogance was something they had to watch out for, as it could lead to complacency.
    • Being tasking a bruiser meant they had to work harder, prepare more, and plan more.
    • In stressful situations, the speaker believes in preparing, planning, rehearsing, and visualizing.
    • Just before the moment of execution, they adopt a confident mindset.
    • Building confidence is important for fighters before a match or working dogs before an attack.
    • Having humility and hard work combined with confidence is crucial for success.
    • Michael Jordan's chances of success increased when he felt good and refocused after missing shots.
    • Maintaining humility while being able to execute as a team is extremely important.

    The Power of Confidence in Execution

    1:34:44 - 1:41:03

    • Having confidence at the moment of execution is powerful and helps let go of worry
    • A little bit of confidence can make a big difference in performance
    • Switching on confidence during execution and then switching back to humility afterwards is important
    • Material items like T-shirts, patches, and uniforms can represent and unify a culture

    Creating Symbols and Unifying Culture

    1:40:34 - 1:46:37

    • Hackworth set up a sniper program in Vietnam and called the snipers his 'little babies'
    • Material things like t-shirts, patches, and coins can become part of a culture
    • The significance of earning a t-shirt at J-Rob wrestling camp
    • The Marine Corps Eagle Globe and Anchor is a big deal in boot camp
    • Creating something meaningful around achievements builds unique identity and culture

    Building Identity through Symbols and Achievements

    1:52:22 - 1:58:41

    • Creating a unique identity and culture is important
    • Unit patches can be a symbol of identity and impact on the battlefield
    • Recognizing achievements with symbols or stickers creates a standard and aspiration
    • A strong culture is powerful and should be built and protected
    • Jocko Fuel offers various flavors of energy drinks and protein shakes
    • The 50/50 Tactical T flavor is underrated but tasty
    • Mixing up flavors can create a good rotation for workouts
    • Jocko Fuel products are convenient for quick protein intake

    The Role of Jocko Fuel in Supporting Culture

    1:58:26 - 2:04:55

    • RTDs are great for hitting the recommended protein intake of 200 grams.
    • Consuming a protein shake after a workout can make you feel full and energized.
    • Jocko products are available in various stores, including Vitamin Shop and GNC.
    • Jocko products are also sold in military commissaries and exchanges.
    • Small gyms can sell Jocko products by contacting jfsales@jockofield.com.
    • Lafe Babin trains at CrossFit Second Wave and Stoic Jiu Jitsu in Dripping Springs, Texas.
    • When injured, focus on maintaining mobility and adapting workouts in CrossFit.

    Fitness and Training Tips

    2:04:39 - 2:11:18

    • In CrossFit, you can adapt to what's happening and scale exercises if needed.
    • Don't get off the bus when it comes to training or workout programs.
    • No one cares if you haven't been training, so don't let your ego hold you back.
    • Do what you can and make adjustments when necessary.
    • Using Jocko Fuel products like joint warfare can make a big difference in staying on track.
    • OriginUSA.com manufactures their products in America and avoids greenwashing practices.
    • Buying from OriginUSA supports national security and workers' rights.
    • Visit jockostore.com for discipline equals freedom gear and shirt locker subscriptions.

    The Importance of Training and Discipline

    2:17:00 - 2:23:56

    • Two new courses, The Read Back and The Debrief, are now available on Extreme Ownership Academy.
    • Take the free courses on Extreme Ownership Academy to improve your life.
    • Extreme Ownership has transformed the lives of many people by helping them in various aspects of their lives.
    • The online courses at Extreme Ownership Academy are interactive and provide in-depth knowledge about the principles.
    • The courses break down each chapter of the book and discuss real-world scenarios.
    • You can test your understanding of the principles through role plays in the courses.
    • Extreme Ownership Academy is a valuable resource that can change the game for you.
    • Support veterans and their families by donating to organizations like America's Mighty Warriors and Heroes and Horses.
    • Connect with Jocko Willink, Lafe Babbin, and Kerry Hilton on social media.
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