Lead. Win. - An Extreme Ownership Podcast

Episoade

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  How Great Leaders Decide When to Fire and When to Mentor 11.08.2026 20min

  Managing top performers who display toxic behavior is one of the hardest leadership challenges. Learn how to address poor conduct.Lace Babin and Carlos Mendez discuss the difficult balance between individual talent and the health of the broader team. High-performing employees often feel entitled to act poorly because of their results, but this creates a culture that drives away other talent. This conversation breaks down why you cannot ignore negative behavior just because an employee hits their numbers.We explore practical strategies for managing top performers without sacrificing team cohesion. You will learn how to confront toxic employees effectively, set clear boundaries, and ensure that high achievers align with company values. By the end of this episode, you will have a framework for addressing conduct issues while maintaining the productivity of your team.Subscribe for weekly leadership breakdowns, and comment below on how you handle high-performing staff who disrupt your office culture.
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  Jocko on Why Fast Tech Adoption Fails Teams 04.08.2026 18min

  Try Jocko AI: https://echelonfront.com/jocko-ai/Is AI technology going to take over the world? Jocko Willink joins us to cut through the noise and discuss the reality of artificial intelligence.Many people are caught in the debate between fearing the future of AI or dismissing it entirely. In this conversation, we look past the hype to examine how these tools actually function in our daily lives. We address the skepticism surrounding new tech trends and why it is important to maintain a balanced perspective instead of rushing to extremes.Whether you are curious about the practical application of AI technology or simply want a grounded take on the current landscape, this discussion provides a clear-eyed look at where things stand. We explore why even the most skeptical voices are shifting their views on AI technology as it becomes more integrated into society.Subscribe for weekly leadership and mindset breakdowns, and let us know your thoughts on the future of AI technology in the comments below.
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  5 Ways to Handle Someone Who Doesn’t Respect You 28.07.2026 28min

  📚 Books On Amazon: Purchase books by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin on Amazon.https://echelonfront.com/links/➕ Follow Us On Social:https://www.instagram.com/echelonfronthttps://twitter.com/EchelonFronthttps://www.facebook.com/echelonfront/https://www.linkedin.com/company/echelon-front-llc/Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: https://engage.echelonfront.com/RundownStop expecting instant conflict resolution from a single apology. Learn why fixing broken relationships is a long-term campaign.Most people assume that one conversation can mend a major issue, but that approach rarely works. This video explains why effective conflict resolution requires patience and consistent effort rather than a quick fix. If you have been struggling to get through to someone, you likely need to rethink your strategy entirely.We break down the reality of handling difficult conversations when emotions run high. You will learn why expecting immediate results often leads to frustration and how to view your interactions as a campaign instead of a one-time event. Whether you are dealing with a professional disagreement or personal tension, understanding this perspective is essential for long-term progress.Subscribe for weekly communication skills breakdowns, and comment below with a time you had to persist through a tough situation.
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  How to Stay Ice Cold When Everything In You Wants To React Emotionally 21.07.2026 26min

  Master leadership decision making when your team pushes back. Learn how to handle intense debates and keep your team aligned.Effective leadership decision making requires navigating resistance during high-pressure moments. This discussion focuses on the reality of team conflict, specifically when your direct reports challenge your calls or resist the path forward. If you manage people, you know that the toughest part of the job happens inside the debrief room when consensus breaks down.We break down how to address team conflict without shutting down critical feedback. By mastering the art of managing team friction, you can turn a tense argument into a productive debrief. Learn to hold your ground on the right call while still validating your team's perspective. Understanding these nuances of leadership decision making is essential for any manager facing pushback.Subscribe for weekly management breakdowns and comment below: how do you handle it when your team refuses to get on board with your strategy?
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  How Positive Leaders Lose Their Team 14.07.2026 24min

  📚 Books On Amazon: Purchase books by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin on Amazon. https://echelonfront.com/links/ ➕ Follow Us On Social: https://www.instagram.com/echelonfront https://twitter.com/EchelonFront https://www.facebook.com/echelonfront/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/echelon-front-llc/ Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: https://engage.echelonfront.com/Rundown Learn the long-term consequences of lying and why avoiding the truth damages your personal and professional growth. This discussion breaks down the psychological and relational impact of deception. We examine why people choose to avoid the truth and how these patterns of behavior create barriers to genuine connection. If you have ever struggled with the pressure to maintain a false narrative, this conversation provides a clear perspective on the cost of dishonesty.
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  Why Your Boss Respects Problem Solvers, Not Problem Finders 07.07.2026 27min

  Stop complaining and start practicing proactive communication. Learn how to stop waiting for orders and become a solution oriented leader.Are you tired of feeling like you are always bringing problems to the table without results? This episode of The Lead Win focuses on shifting your mindset from a complainer to a contributor. Whether you are dealing with a difficult manager or just trying to improve your daily workflow, learning how to handle your relationship with your boss is critical. We discuss why sitting around waiting to be told what to do is the fastest way to stall your career growth.By taking ownership of your role, you can positively influence your team success. We break down the specific behaviors that distinguish high performers from those who only identify issues. If you want to refine your leadership skills and stop being part of the problem, this discussion provides the framework you need to start bringing solutions to every conversation.Subscribe for weekly leadership tips to level up your management style and share your thoughts on how you stay proactive at work in the comments below.
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  What Separates Leaders Who Train Their Team From Leaders Who Don't 30.06.2026 26min

  📚 Books On Amazon: Purchase books by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin on Amazon.https://echelonfront.com/links/➕ Follow Us On Social:https://www.instagram.com/echelonfronthttps://twitter.com/EchelonFronthttps://www.facebook.com/echelonfront/https://www.linkedin.com/company/echelon-front-llc/Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: https://engage.echelonfront.com/RundownStop avoiding leadership challenges. Learn why the cost of poor management is inevitable and how to address it head-on today.Effective team management requires addressing the reality that leadership challenges have a price, whether you acknowledge them or not. Many managers hesitate because they do not trust their people, but failing to lead only creates further distance. This discussion breaks down why you cannot afford to ignore the friction between your expectations and your team's output.We examine why low performers often stay that way when management ignores the core issues. If you are struggling with team dynamics or questioning your approach to management trust, this breakdown offers a clear perspective on why leadership costs are unavoidable. You will learn to recognize when your hesitation is actually costing you productivity and how to shift your mindset to get better results.Subscribe for weekly leadership breakdowns, and comment below with the biggest management hurdle you are facing right now.
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  The Truth About Low Morale (Most Leaders Get This Wrong) 28.04.2026 19min

  Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: https://engage.echelonfront.com/RundownWhat do you do when your team just isn’t motivated—and nothing seems to fix it?In this episode, Jocko Willink and the team break down how leaders can take ownership of low morale, negative attitudes, and disengaged teams. The answer isn’t blame—it’s leadership.Through real-world combat stories and business examples, they explain why people lose motivation, how lack of ownership and unclear purpose drive negativity, and what leaders can do to turn it around fast.You’ll learn how to:Give meaningful ownership that actually improves attitudeConnect the “why” so people feel valued and engagedCreate small wins to rebuild momentumReframe tough situations into challenges worth taking onUse honesty and transparency to eliminate doubt and negativityIf your team is struggling—or if you’ve ever dealt with someone who’s “never happy”—this episode gives you the practical tools to lead through it.Because when morale drops… it’s not a people problem. It’s a leadership opportunity. 
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  How Great Leaders Tell the Brutal Truth and Get Everyone On Board 21.04.2026 23min

  📚 Books On Amazon: Purchase books by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin on Amazon.https://echelonfront.com/links/➕ Follow Us On Social:https://www.instagram.com/echelonfronthttps://twitter.com/EchelonFronthttps://www.facebook.com/echelonfront/https://www.linkedin.com/company/echelon-front-llc/Nobody likes change, especially when it leads to constant shifting priorities within organizations. This episode of the Leif, Jamie and JP discuss the challenges of frequent changes and the importance of effective change management to prevent frustration and maintain strong relationships. We emphasize that individuals and teams must cultivate flexibility and learn to adapt to change to thrive in dynamic environments.
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  Drowning in Work? This Is the Answer 14.04.2026 23min

  📚 Books On Amazon: Purchase books by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin on Amazon.https://echelonfront.com/links/➕ Follow Us On Social:https://www.instagram.com/echelonfronthttps://twitter.com/EchelonFronthttps://www.facebook.com/echelonfront/https://www.linkedin.com/company/echelon-front-llc/Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: https://engage.echelonfront.com/Rundown-Many people ask how to balance work and life, and feelings of being burned out and stressed out are common challenges. This video addresses the overwhelm paralysis that can arise from these struggles, offering mental health tips to navigate the demands of daily life. Understanding and managing emotional exhaustion is key to finding equilibrium.
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  Great Leaders Don't Follow the Pattern 07.04.2026 23min

  📚 Books On Amazon: Purchase books by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin on Amazon.https://echelonfront.com/links/Leif, Jamie, and JP discuss why great leaders break cycles.➕ Follow Us On Social:https://www.instagram.com/echelonfronthttps://twitter.com/EchelonFronthttps://www.facebook.com/echelonfront/https://www.linkedin.com/company/echelon-front-llc/Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: https://engage.echelonfront.com/Rundown
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  Your Team Isn't the Problem — Your Communication Is 31.03.2026 21min

  Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: https://engage.echelonfront.com/RundownAre your team members not executing the way you expect? The problem might not be them — it might be YOU. In this episode of the Leadwin Podcast, Echelon Front leadership instructors JP Dinnell, Jamie, and Leif break down one of the most critical (and most overlooked) leadership principles: simple, clear, and concise communication.Most leaders overestimate their ability to communicate effectively. They send three-page emails, give complex briefs, and ask "does that make sense?" — then wonder why their teams aren't executing. The truth is, most mistakes come from unclear directions and expectations, not incompetence.
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  Stop Saying “I Have To” (This Changes Everything) 24.03.2026 23min

  Leadership starts with perspective.In this episode of the Lead. Win. podcast, Leif Babin, Jamie Cochran and JP Dinnell break down a powerful mindset shift: moving from “I have to do this” to “I get to do this.” That simple change can eliminate resentment, improve attitude, strengthen leadership, and help you take ownership even in difficult situations.They discuss how leaders set the emotional tone for their teams, why attitude is contagious, and how changing your perspective can help you solve problems, influence others, and stay focused on the mission. This episode is packed with practical leadership lessons on Extreme Ownership, mindset, positivity, team culture, and personal responsibility.If you are dealing with frustration at work, leadership challenges, family stress, or difficult circumstances, this conversation will help you reframe your situation and lead with a better mindset.
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  If You Can’t Control Your Emotions, You Can’t Lead 17.03.2026 24min

  What happens when a leader loses control of their emotions?In this episode, Jocko Willink, Leif Babin and Jamie Cochran break down why emotional control is critical for leadership, decision-making, and relationships at work and at home. They discuss detachment, staying calm in chaos, why yelling destroys trust, and how leaders can recognize the red flags before they lose their cool.This conversation covers practical leadership tools like “relax, look around, make a call,” how to stay calm under pressure, and how Extreme Ownership helps you recover when you make mistakes.If you want to become a better leader, make better decisions, and stop letting emotion drive bad outcomes, this episode is for you.
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  Great Leadership Isn’t What You Think 09.03.2026 25min

  In this episode, Jocko Willink discusses the importance of learning what truly matters and how to approach challenges with sound "decision making". He shares insights on building "trust" within a team and navigating situations involving "risk". This conversation offers valuable "advice" for fostering "personal growth" and effective "problem solving" in any endeavor.Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: https://engage.echelonfront.com/Rundown📚 Books On Amazon: Purchase books by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin on Amazon.https://echelonfront.com/links/➕ Follow Us On Social:https://www.instagram.com/echelonfronthttps://twitter.com/EchelonFronthttps://www.facebook.com/echelonfront/https://www.linkedin.com/company/echelon-front-llc/
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  How Leaders Win Argument (and Lose Everything Else) 02.03.2026 23min

  Most people think “winning” means being right. But in leadership, being right can cost you something far more valuable: leadership capital.In this episode, Jocko Willink, Leif Babin, Jamie Cochran break down the cost of being right—how “I told you so” moments drain trust, damage relationships, and turn small disagreements into long-term friction. We’ll show you how to stay detached, control the ego response, and use the indirect approach (questions, not lectures) to help others reveal the truth to themselves—without you cashing in relationship equity for a temporary win.Key ideas discussed:Why being right can reduce leadership capital“Win the relationship, not the argument”When it does matter to dig in (high-stakes decisions) vs. when it doesn’t (most daily disagreements)Tactical win vs. strategic loss in business and team dynamicsHow “micro” ego-flexes slowly boil the relationship over timeA practical action drill: detach, step back, and ask, “What outcome are we trying to solve together?”If you lead people—at work, at home, or on a team—this is a simple mindset shift that will immediately improve your communication, trust, and influence.👉 Send us the leadership challenges you’re facing so we can target future episodes.✅ Free resources: echelonfront.com🎓 Go deeper: Extreme Ownership Academy (online training)#ExtremeOwnership #Leadership #Communication #ConflictResolution #StoicLeadership #Management #TeamLeadership #EmotionalIntelligence #EchelonFront
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  The 8 Steps Every New Venture Needs (Or You Will Fail) 12.12.2025 26min

  Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: ⁠https://engage.echelonfront.com/Rundown⁠Turn that big idea into a real mission—without blowing up your life in the process. In this episode of the Lead.WIN. Podcast, we break down how to start a new venture the smart way: whether you want to launch a business, make a career change, enlist in the military, or pursue a big personal goal.Leif Babin and Sean Glass unpack how risk mitigation actually enables you to be default aggressive—by taking iterative steps, gathering intel, and avoiding the “all in, second mortgage, quit your job tomorrow” trap. They share the early days of Echelon Front, what it really took to build it, and why your mission must be bigger than “I hate my boss.”You’ll learn how to:Clarify your mission, purpose, and long-term goalsTake the smallest step in the right direction (and then reassess)Use Extreme Ownership to handle setbacks and failureKeep things simple in your startup or new pathRun a pros and cons list and gather real-world intel before you jumpIf you’re thinking about starting a business, changing careers, or rebooting your life path, this episode will help you lead and win on that journey.
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  The Right Way to Make Leaders Listen to You 05.12.2025 27min

  Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: https://engage.echelonfront.com/RundownNothing fires people up like a frustrating boss. Micromanager. Control freak. Huge ego. It’s easy to say, “It’s not my fault.” In this episode of the Lead & Win Podcast, Sean and Leif break down how to lead up the chain of command—even when your boss drives you crazy.They unpack what it really means to influence your boss, why “my boss never listens” is usually a reflection on you, and how to build trust, respect, and leadership capital so your ideas actually land. You’ll hear real stories from the SEAL Teams and the business world about micromanaging bosses, shifting priorities, and how Extreme Ownership flips the script: if your boss doesn’t trust you, it’s on you to earn it.Use this episode to learn:How to lead when you’re in the middle of the organizationThe 5 pillars of relationships: trust, listen, respect, influence, careHow to deal with a micromanaging boss without blowing up the relationshipWhen to push back—and when to shut up and executeHow to stop drinking “haterade” and start taking Extreme Ownership up the chainIf you’re tired of blaming your boss and ready to actually move your team and career forward, this episode will give you the mindset and tactical tools to do it.
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  Why You Don’t Get Along—And How to Change It 26.11.2025 28min

  Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: https://engage.echelonfront.com/RundownHow do you build a relationship with someone you really don’t like—but still have to work with to accomplish the mission?In this episode of the Lead.WIN. Podcast, Leif and Jamie break down one of the most common leadership questions we get from every industry:👉 “How do I build a relationship with someone who rubs me the wrong way?”Using real stories from the SEAL Teams, corporate clients, and their own lives, they show why the problem isn’t just the “difficult person” on the other side… it’s two egos colliding. And more importantly, what you can actually do about it.You’ll learn:Why a bad relationship with your boss, peer, or inspector is hurting your team more than you thinkHow to check your ego and stop “drinking the haterade”The Extreme Ownership framework for relationships: Trust – Listen – Respect – Influence – CarePractical steps to repair frictional relationships (even when there’s history and emotion)How to stop assigning sinister intent and start building alignment around the missionAn Immediate Action Drill you can use this week to fix one relationship in your lifeAt the end, you’ll walk away with clear, tactical actions to build effective relationships—up, down, and across the chain of command—so you can lead and win.📚 Books On Amazon: Purchase books by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin on Amazon.https://echelonfront.com/links/➕ Follow Us On Social:https://www.instagram.com/echelonfronthttps://twitter.com/EchelonFronthttps://www.facebook.com/echelonfront/https://www.linkedin.com/company/echelon-front-llc/🔗 Free leadership resources: echelonfront.com🎓 Go deeper with Extreme Ownership Academy: online courses, live sessions, and practical training to apply these principles in your business and life.👍 Like, subscribe, share, and drop your current leadership challenge in the comments so we can tackle it in a future episode.
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  The Priority Test Every Leader Needs 14.11.2025 27min

  Join Us In Orlando This December: https://qrco.de/bffhTXAre you confusing being busy with actually making an impact?In this episode of the Echelon Front Lead.Win. Podcast, we break down how to stop “fighting fires” all day and start prioritizing and executing on what really drives your long-term mission at work and at home.You’ll learn how to:Stop confusing activity for impactShift from tactical busyness to strategic goalsUse detachment to see what really mattersApply decentralized command so your team solves problems without youProtect time for what matters most: family, relationships, and healthUse tools like time audits, time blocking, No-Meeting Fridays, and Now/Next/Later listsThis conversation ties directly into the principles from Extreme Ownership and The Dichotomy of Leadership and shows you how to apply them in your business, your team, and your home.👉 Watch, learn, and then run the Immediate Action Drill:Write your top 3 long-term goalsSet your top 3 priorities for the weekSet your top 3 tasks for todayMake sure they all alignWhen you prioritize and execute on what truly matters, you create more impact, more freedom, and more capacity to lead and win.📚 Books On Amazon: Purchase books by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin on Amazon.https://echelonfront.com/links/➕ Follow Us On Social:https://www.instagram.com/echelonfronthttps://twitter.com/EchelonFronthttps://www.facebook.com/echelonfront/https://www.linkedin.com/company/echelon-front-llc/Free Weekly Leadership Newsletter: https://engage.echelonfront.com/Rundown