Overview
In this next episode, I was joined by Sean Salomé, who has a very unique career that’s spanned from 0311 and special operations as a MARSOC Operator to leading intelligence programs in the US Marine Corps. Plus, his work on the private side in intelligence and physical security. Additionally, Sean studied international relations at UT Austin.
Our conversation today was focused on project management and leadership. It was fascinating to hear Sean’s thoughts and experience on this topic since he’s taken the road less traveled through small unit leadership, leading intelligence teams, leading physical security projects, and so much more.
It was a great honor to have Sean as a guest!
Highlights from This Episode
- Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life: It involves more than just a career change; it’s about adapting to a new societal and cultural environment.
- Importance of Networking: Essential for success in transitioning and career development in civilian life.
- Growth Mindset: Viewing challenges and failures as opportunities for learning and growth.
- Knowing Your People: Understanding the strengths, weaknesses, and capabilities of your team is crucial for effective leadership.
- The Value of Humility: Being open to learning and acknowledging your own limitations can significantly aid in personal and professional development.
- Ownership and Accountability: Taking responsibility for both successes and failures in project management and personal endeavors.
- Adapting and Planning: The importance of being flexible and able to adjust plans based on unforeseen circumstances.
- Continuous Learning: Emphasizing the need for ongoing education and skill development, both professionally and personally.
- Understanding Stakeholder Needs: Active listening and clear communication with all stakeholders are essential for project success.
- Rest and Burnout Prevention: Recognizing the need for breaks and rest to maintain team morale and productivity.
Memorable Quotes:
- On Leadership: “You have to be a leader because at the end of the day, you’re charged with moving this project or program in the right direction.”
- On Humility: “You got to humble yourself and say, ‘Listen, you’re the colleagues that you’re going to compete with, for these positions, these jobs, they’re coming from different backgrounds.'”
- On Being Dependable: “I’m not the subject matter expert in a lot of projects that I lead, but I’m the one that everyone goes to when they need something.”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
- Books:
- “Extreme Ownership” by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
- “Make Your Bed” by Admiral William H. McRaven
- John C. Maxwell’s books on leadership, including “360 Degree Leader”
- “Battlefield Leadership” (the specific author wasn’t mentioned, but it’s referred to as being written by a World War I German General on changing leadership styles)
- “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie
- “Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time” by Jeff Sutherland
- People:
- Carol Dweck (mentioned in relation to the concept of a growth mindset)
- Admiral William H. McRaven
- Jocko Willink
- Leif Babin
- John C. Maxwell
- Jeff Sutherland
- Courses & Training:
- Dale Carnegie Training Courses
- Cybersecurity education programs for military veterans (specific programs not mentioned)
Use CONTROL + F to search the transcript below if you want to learn more!
Related Episodes
- Becoming a Security Intelligence Manager
- Global Intel to Cyber Threat Intelligence
- Physical Security Consulting Lessons
- Project Management from MARSOC