The Arrogant Independent
“Leadership That Protects: From Combat to Mental Health”
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Some of the strongest leaders I ever served with weren’t defined by rank or bravado — they were defined by presence.
The kind of leaders who could walk into a room, tap a soldier gently on the shoulder, and instantly change the trajectory of their day… or their life.
In the Global War on Terror, that kind of leadership saved lives.
Enemy-caused deaths were high only in a few specific years, and even then, far lower than what the world expected. That wasn’t luck — it was the discipline, care, and human connection built by our NCOs and officers.
Today, we face a different enemy.
Not IEDs or ambushes, but isolation and suicide, especially among our youngest service members.
And here’s the hopeful part — the same leadership that kept Soldiers alive in combat can keep them alive in peace.
This week’s podcast episode dives deep into that truth:
Þ How presence protects
Þ How simple acts of connection save lives
Þ How leadership is still our most powerful weapon against despair
I also share a personal story from a Sergeant Major who once taught me that a soldier’s struggles off duty are still a leader’s responsibility — because leadership doesn’t stop at COB.
If you wear stripes, bars, or chevrons… or if you just care about the people around you… this message is for you.
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🎧 Listen to the new podcast episode:
Leadership That Protects: From Combat to Mental Health
📄 Read the full research report:
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Let’s keep leading with compassion, presence, and purpose.
The battlefield may have changed — but leadership still saves lives. 🇺🇸