The Cutlass Podcast

In this episode of the Cutlass podcast, Paul Kingsbury and retired Force Master Chief Toby Ruiz discuss the journey of senior enlisted leadership within the Navy, particularly focusing on the transition to senior enlisted leadership roles and the unique challenges faced at the flag/general officer level. They explore the expectations of the role, importance of mentorship, the dynamics of working on a flag staff, and the skills necessary for success in these positions. The conversation emphasizes the need for humility, preparation, and the ability to build strong relationships within the military hierarchy.To learn more about the National Chief Petty Officers Association check out our website www.navychief.org. The guides mentioned in the podcast can be purchased at the "Chief Petty Officers Guide" or "The Petty Officers Guide" or at your online bookstore of choice.

In this episode I'm taking time to explain what shapes my leadership philosophy and review the fundamental leadership and management concepts I'll use in future episodes and discussions. To learn more check out the Chief Petty Officer's Guide at or watch my YouTube videos! 

In this episode of the Cutlass Podcast, host Paul Kingsbury interviews John Hagan, the eighth Master Chief Petty Officer in the Navy. Hagan shares his journey from joining the Navy to becoming a Chief Petty Officer and ultimately to his selection as MCPON. They also talk about the influence of mentors and role models, the challenges of the drug problem in the Navy during that time, and the importance of informal discussions and peer-to-peer relationships in the Chief's mess. John also talks about the concept of success as a journey, not a destination, and the balance between the mission and taking care of people.

How willing, able, and comfortable are you at applying pressure and imposing "cost" when the situation requires it? Navy and USCG Chiefs have been doing it for decades! Creator and host of the They Had to Go Out Podcast, USCG Chief Petty Officer Phil Null and I continue our discussion on using "carrots and sticks" as leadership tools. For additional information about this topic check out chapter six of the Chief Petty Officer's Guide. 

Writing skills are crucial to giving you and your people a professional edge. Most leaders have insights, opinions, and sound recommendations on how things are getting done and how they could be better. And they are very willing to discuss these things in small, face-to-face venues and miss the opportunity to use writing as a broader tool of influence. Join retired naval aviator and TOPGUN instructor, former chief speechwriter to Secretary of Defense James Mattis, and author of "Topgun's Top 10", Guy Snodgrass and I as we share how leaders can and should use writing as a key tool of influence.  For additional insights and advice on this topic, check out the Chief Petty Officer's Guide. Thumbnail photo: U.S. Naval Institute.