547. The Movie Hollywood Didn’t See Coming... | Jocko Willink
In this episode of The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast, Jocko Willink shares his philosophy on leadership and consulting, explaining how effective leadership stems from inspiring voluntary action rather than giving orders. He describes his methodology for improving organizations by interviewing employees at all levels and developing leadership alignment plans that create shared visions.
The discussion covers Willink's various business ventures, including his leadership consulting firm, supplement company, and American-made apparel brand. Willink also talks about his journey from writing children's books to film production, detailing how his "Way of the Warrior Kid" series—inspired by his daughter's experiences—evolved from page to screen through collaboration with industry professionals while maintaining his original vision.
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Willink's Leadership Philosophy and Consulting Approach
Jocko Willink discusses his approach to leadership, emphasizing that true leadership isn't about issuing orders or threats, but rather inspiring people to take action willingly. He advocates for using open-ended questions to understand problems and find collaborative solutions, noting that this approach helps engage others without putting them on the defensive.
In his consulting work, Willink begins by interviewing employees at all levels to identify areas needing improvement. He believes most organizational problems stem from leadership issues rather than process problems, and focuses on creating tailored leadership alignment plans that establish shared visions and increase intrinsic motivation.
Willink's Entrepreneurial Ventures and Business Development
Willink has successfully launched several businesses, including Echelon Front (a leadership consulting company), Jocko Fuel (a supplement company), and Origin USA (an apparel company). His business approach involves identifying unmet needs that align with his values and committing fully to execution. For instance, Origin USA manufactures everything in America, sourcing all materials domestically with production facilities in Maine and North Carolina.
Willink's success in business has been bolstered by his strategic approach to building communication networks and distribution channels. He demonstrates this through his initial decision to self-publish his work and later negotiate favorable terms with publishers, with 85% of his books now being sold through Amazon.
Transforming a Children's Book Into a Film
Inspired by his daughter's struggles with math, Willink wrote the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series to provide positive role models for children. The books' success has led to a film adaptation, where Willink partnered with experienced screenwriter Will Staples to maintain the essence of his message while adapting it for the screen. Working closely with director McG, Willink remained actively involved in the writing process to ensure his core vision was authentically translated to film.
1-Page Summary
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Clarifications
- Jocko Willink's leadership philosophy focuses on inspiring people to take action willingly by using open-ended questions to understand problems and find collaborative solutions. In his consulting work, he emphasizes identifying and addressing leadership issues within organizations to create tailored leadership alignment plans that establish shared visions and increase intrinsic motivation.
- Origin USA is a company founded by Jocko Willink that focuses on manufacturing products in the United States, with production facilities in Maine and North Carolina. The company emphasizes sourcing materials domestically and promoting American-made goods. Willink's commitment to producing everything in America aligns with his values and business approach.
- McG, also known as Joseph McGinty Nichol, is an American director and producer known for his work in film and television. He gained recognition for directing projects like "Charlie's Angels" and "Terminator Salvation." McG also co-created the TV series "Fastlane" and has a production company called Wonderland Sound and Vision.
Counterarguments
- While Willink's leadership philosophy emphasizes inspiring action, some critics might argue that in certain high-stress or emergency situations, a more directive leadership style could be necessary for quick decision-making.
- The use of open-ended questions is valuable, but some might point out that in some cases, especially when time is limited, direct instructions could be more efficient.
- Willink's focus on leadership issues is important, but some might argue that process problems can also significantly impact organizational effectiveness and should not be overlooked.
- Tailored leadership alignment plans are beneficial, but critics might suggest that they need to be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances within an organization.
- Willink's commitment to manufacturing in America is commendable, but some might argue that this could lead to higher production costs, which might not be sustainable or competitive in the long term.
- The strategic decision to self-publish and then negotiate with publishers is smart, but some might argue that traditional publishing routes can offer benefits such as wider distribution networks and marketing support from the outset.
- Selling 85% of books through Amazon shows successful channel strategy, but some might criticize this approach for over-reliance on a single platform, which could be risky if Amazon's policies or market conditions change.
- While the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series aims to provide positive role models, some might argue that children's literature should encompass a diverse range of perspectives and not just focus on one particular set of values or ideals.
- The involvement of the original author in a film adaptation is often seen as a positive, but some might argue that too much involvement can hinder the creative process and adaptation necessary for the different medium of film.
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Willink's Leadership Philosophy and Consulting Approach
Jocko Willink discusses his leadership philosophy and consulting approach, emphasizing the distinction between inspiring action and issuing threats or orders.
Willink Defines Leadership As Inspiring Action, Not Ordering or Threatening
Willink describes leadership as the skill of getting people to take action, but he believes that effective leadership is about inspiring people to want to do things, rather than ordering or threatening them to do it. He states that when you order someone with a threat, it only works temporarily and does not inspire their best effort. Instead, it could lead them to seek employment elsewhere.
Willink's Method: Use Open-Ended Questions to Understand Problems and Collaboratively Find Solutions
Willink advocates for the use of open-ended questions to engage with others, especially when confronted with objections or disagreements. Rather than presuming a lack of understanding on the part of the other person, Willink wonders what he may not understand. He suggests that open-ended questioning engages the other party without putting them on the defensive.
Willink also talks about the strategy of the indirect approach, both in warfare and leadership, suggesting that instead of confronting issues directly and risking a clash of egos, leaders should find alternative ways to approach situations.
Willink's Consulting Analyzes Challenges Through Interviews and Creates Tailored Leadership Alignment Plans
In his consulting approach, Willink starts with an assessment phase, interviewing people at all levels within a company to identify areas that need improvement. He looks for discrepancies in understanding the company's mission between senior and junior employees to get a comprehensive view of the company's culture and operations.
Willink Believes Problems Stem From Leadership, Not Process, and Emphasizes a Shared Vision and Intrinsic Motivation
Willink holds the belief that most problems within a company stem from leadership issues, not process issues. He insists that problems arise when employees do not understand the importance of procedures or the reasoning behind certain regulations. To mitigate these issues, Willink and his team create tailored leadership alignment plans that focus on establishing a shared vision and increasing intrinsic motivation.
Willink and his partner Pete's shared vision to rebuild manufacturing in America is a prime example of having a guiding goal that transcends making mon ...
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Willink's Leadership Philosophy and Consulting Approach
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Counterarguments
- While inspiring action is crucial, there may be situations where clear directives and orders are necessary for immediate action or safety, especially in high-stakes environments.
- Open-ended questions are valuable, but there may be times when direct communication is more efficient and less ambiguous, particularly in urgent scenarios.
- The indirect approach can be effective, but it might also lead to misinterpretation or a lack of urgency; sometimes a direct approach is required to address issues head-on.
- Interviews can provide insights into a company's challenges, but they may also be subject to biases or incomplete information; other data collection methods could complement this approach.
- Leadership is critical, but processes are also important; even the best leaders can be hampered by poor processes, and good processes can often mitigate weak leadership to some extent.
- A shared vision is important, but it must be balanced with flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances; too rigid an adherence to a shared vision can be detrimental.
- Rebuilding manufacturing in America is a noble goal, but it must be balanced with the realities of global economics and the benefits of international trade.
- Emphasizing collective goals is important, but individual accoun ...
Actionables
- You can enhance your leadership by starting a daily reflection journal focused on actions that inspired others. Each day, write down instances where you motivated someone through your actions rather than directives. This practice will help you identify patterns in your behavior that naturally encourage others and refine your approach to be more inspirational over time.
- Develop your collaborative problem-solving skills by organizing a monthly "solution circle" with friends or colleagues. During these sessions, present a common problem without proposing any solutions. Encourage participants to ask open-ended questions and collectively brainstorm solutions. This will train you to approach issues with a collaborative mindset and improve your ability to facilitate group decision-making.
- Build intrinsic motivation within ...
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Willink's Entrepreneurial Ventures and Business Development
Jocko Willink, the retired Navy SEAL, has successfully ventured into several enterprises that reflect his principled approach to business and leadership.
Successful Businesses Built by Willink: Leadership Firm, Supplement, and Apparel Company
Jocko Willink founded and operates several businesses including Echelon Front, a leadership consulting company; Jocko Fuel, a food supplement company; and an apparel company called Origin USA.
Willink Identifies Unmet Needs Aligned With His Values and Commits Fully To Execution
Willink has channeled his leadership experience into Echelon Front, which works with companies globally on leadership training and development. Meanwhile, his supplement company, Jocko Fuel, produces a range of clean supplements tailored for needs like protein intake, energy, and hydration. Origin USA manufactures everything in America, sourcing all materials, including cotton, zippers, and leather, domestically. Factories in Maine and North Carolina handle production. Willink believes in the power of authenticity, a principle he demonstrated in his book "Extreme Ownership," which resonated deeply because he shared his full story without reservations.
Willink identifies opportunities in challenges that bother him, like the production issues that prompted him to bring manufacturing back to America with Origin USA. Even the film based on his book "The Way of the Warrior Kid" stems from a desire to address a problem in a manner consistent with his values. This philosophy extends to his approach to business and building effective collaborations.
With an eye toward unmet needs and full commitment, Willink’s ventures not only espouse his values but aim to fill gaps that align with his goal of improvement and empowerment.
Building a Strong Communication Network and Distribution Channels Is Vital
Success Through Collaboration: Willink's Adaptive Approach
Willink's business acumen serves him well when evaluating the strategic advantages of partnerships like the one with his original publishing company for "The Way of the Warrior Kid" series, recognizing the synergy such an alliance could offer.
Peterson highlights the critical importance of a strong communications network, insinuating its potential to develop a va ...
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Willink's Entrepreneurial Ventures and Business Development
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Jocko Fuel is a food supplement company founded by Jocko Willink. The company produces clean supplements tailored for various needs like protein intake, energy, and hydration. Jocko Fuel is one of the successful businesses operated by Jocko Willink alongside his other ventures. Willink's commitment to authenticity and addressing unmet needs aligns with the products and values of Jocko Fuel.
- Origin USA is a company founded by Jocko Willink that focuses on manufacturing products entirely in America, sourcing materials domestically and operating factories in Maine and North Carolina. The company's ethos revolves around authenticity and aligning with Willink's values of quality and American production. Willink's decision to bring manufacturing back to the USA with Origin USA reflects his commitment to addressing challenges and opportunities that resonate with his principles. The company's approach exemplifies a dedication to filling market gaps while staying true to its mission of improvement and empowerment.
- "Extreme Ownership" is a leadership philosophy popularized by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin, emphasizing taking full responsibility for outcomes, regardless of circumstances. The concept stresses leaders owning both successes and failures, fostering accountability and proactive problem-solving within teams. Willink's book "Extreme Ownership" delves into this principle, illustrating its application through military experiences and offering insights on how it can be implemented in various aspects of life and business. The core idea is about leaders embracing responsibility, making decisive decisions, and driving positive change through a mindset of extreme ownership.
- "The Way of the Warrior Kid" is a book series written by Jocko Willink aimed at children. It follows the story of a young boy named Marc who learns valuable life lessons through mentorship from his uncle, a Navy SEAL. The series emphasizes principles like discipline, hard work, and resilience in a relatable and engaging manner for young readers. Through Marc's journey, the books promote personal growth, self-improvement, and the importance of facing challenges with courage and determination.
- A strategic partnership is a formal relationship between two businesses where they collaborate to leverage each other's assets or expertise for mutual benefit. These partnerships can range from simple agreements to more complex arrangements like joint ventures or equity alliances. Trust and a shared vision are crucial for the success of strategic partnerships.
- Self-publishing is when an author independently produces and distributes their work without involving a traditional publishing house. Authors retain creative control and a higher percentage of royalties but are responsible for tasks like editing, cover design, and marketing. Self-publishing has become more accessible with digital platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, offering authors a direct route to readers. It allows authors to bring their work to market quickly and reach a global audi ...
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Transforming a Children's Book Into a Film
Jocko Willink's successful "Way of the Warrior Kid" book series is now paving the way for a movie adaptation, bringing his message of discipline, hard work, and perseverance to the big screen.
Willink Wrote "Way of the Warrior Kid" Books to Provide Positive Role Models For Kids
Jocko Willink was inspired to write the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series after his own daughter struggled with feeling "stupid" for not knowing her times tables. Seeing a need for books that teach children proper studying methods and address common troubles kids face, including matters of self-worth and personal development, Willink authored the series which eventually met with enough success to warrant a film adaptation.
Discipline, Hard Work, Perseverance Lead To Film Adaptation Opportunity
Willink discusses the essence of his books, emphasizing that through discipline, hard work, and study, anyone can grow and become capable. His messages culminate in the creation of the "Way of the Warrior Kid" film, where the main character, Jude Hill, experiences transformation with the help of his SEAL uncle, Jake. Adjustments for the film include appropriate teen themes like romance, to resonate with the target audience, while children performing pushups inspired by the books exemplify the impact that led to the film adaptation.
Hesitant to Write the Screenplay Himself, Willink Partnered With an Experienced Screenwriter
Initially considering writing the screenplay for "Way of the Warrior Kid" himself, Willink ultimately decided to collaborate with an experienced screenwriter. Will Staples, who has a personal connection to military life through his father, a Vietnam helicopter pilot, struck Willink as the right choice for the job. Willink took an active role in the writing process, despite be ...
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Transforming a Children's Book Into a Film
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Counterarguments
- While the books emphasize discipline, hard work, and perseverance, some may argue that the narrative could benefit from a more nuanced exploration of these themes, considering that not all children respond to the same motivational techniques.
- The addition of teen themes like romance to resonate with the target audience might be seen as a departure from the original message of the books, potentially diluting the focus on personal development and discipline.
- The impact of children performing pushups as inspired by the books could be critiqued for promoting a narrow view of physical fitness or discipline, rather than a more holistic approach to child development.
- The decision to partner with an experienced screenwriter is practical, but it could be argued that this might lead to a loss of the original author's unique voice and vision in the adaptation process.
- Will Staples' personal connection to military life may enrich the screenplay, but some might suggest that a writer with a different background could have brought a fresh perspective to the story.
- Willink's active role in the writing process, despite being an "amateur" in screenwriting, could be seen as a potential risk for the screenplay's quality, as professional screenwriters have specific skills honed through experience.
- The collaborative process of revisions ...
Actionables
- You can create a vision board to visually represent your goals, emphasizing discipline, hard work, and perseverance, similar to the themes in "Way of the Warrior Kid." Cut out images and phrases from magazines or print them from online sources that symbolize your aspirations and the values you want to embody. Place your vision board somewhere you'll see it daily to keep you motivated and focused on your personal growth journey.
- Start a small accountability group with friends or family to encourage the development of positive habits. Each member can set a personal goal that aligns with the values of discipline and perseverance. Meet weekly to share progress, challenges, and provide support to one another, creating a community that mirrors the supportive environment found in the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series.
- Engage in a creative project that requires consistent eff ...
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