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The Cutlass Podcast

The Cutlass Podcast

By Paul Kingsbury

The Cutlass Podcast is the companion podcast to the 2nd edition of the Chief Petty Officer's Guide and the Petty Officer's Guide. Join Paul Kingsbury, retired U.S. Navy Fleet Master Chief and author of these guides, and his guests to learn how you can use social science and the experience of others to improve your leadership, communication, and management skills to achieve your goals and bring out the best in your people.
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How To Improve Your Planning and Organizing Skills

The Cutlass PodcastSep 06, 2022

00:00
31:32
A Conversation with Retired MCPON Duane Bushey

A Conversation with Retired MCPON Duane Bushey

In this episode, I host Duane Bushey, the seventh Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy. We discuss various topics related to leadership and Duane's experiences in the Navy. Duane shares stories from his early days in the Navy, including humorous anecdotes and encounters with different leadership styles, his post-retirement career and his commitment to mentorship and leadership, defense of the initiation process, the selection process for MCPON, and changes the Navy has made that he likes and dislikes.


Subscribe and keep up with the Cutlass Podcast


Follow me on my digital platforms:

Cutlass Leadership (Website): https://www.cutlassleadership.com/paul

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KingsburyPaul

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kingsbury-3bb8a8b3/

U.S. Naval Institute: https://www.usni.org/people/paul-kingsbury


Books reference in the episodes can be ordered here:


The Chief Petty Officer’s Guide: https://www.usni.org/press/books/chief-petty-officers-guide-2nd-edition

Petty Officer’s Guide: https://www.usni.org/press/books/petty-officers-guide

The Bluejacket’s Manual, 26th Edition: https://www.usni.org/press/books/bluejackets-manual-26th-edition-0

Mar 12, 202401:11:32
Managing Your Leadership “Villains”
Mar 05, 202431:02
So You Want to Be a Senior Enlisted Leader?
Feb 27, 202452:59
Handling the Accountability of Your Leadership Decisions
Feb 22, 202438:37
Up Close With with Master Chief Petty of Coast Guard Jason Vanderhaden

Up Close With with Master Chief Petty of Coast Guard Jason Vanderhaden

In this episode, Paul Kingsbury interviews Jason Vanderhaden, the 13th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard, about his leadership lessons learned. We discuss the importance of leading oneself and setting high standards, staying hungry for more responsibility, understanding and leveraging people's strengths, making sure people always want more of you as a leader, and seeking to understand before being understood.
Feb 20, 202445:10
Overcoming Career Derailment

Overcoming Career Derailment

In this episode I'm joined by U.S. Navy Chief Nicholas Bowlin who's LinkedIn article titled, "Don't Give Up the Ship! Leading After Being Crushed" walks us through the situation that led to a career derailing "crushing moment" in his career, his reaction to his situation and challenge, and 6 lessons learned. This episode builds and reinforces many other episodes of the Cutlass Podcast!
Feb 17, 202438:30
How to Succeed In Your New Leadership Position
Feb 13, 202428:24
How to Handle a Toxic Leader

How to Handle a Toxic Leader

In this episode, Paul Kingsbury and his guest John Cordle discuss toxic leadership in the military and discusses potential solutions. The conversation covers the reasons why it can occur, the impacts of toxic leaders on units and the broader organization, and offers a strategy and tactics for dealing with toxic bosses and mitigating toxic leadership.

Feb 06, 202452:37
Strategic Communication

Strategic Communication

In this episode, Paul Kingsbury and Scott Stalker discuss the importance of communication skills in leadership and how they evolve as you move up in organizations. They also explore the concept of strategic communication and the components of a strategic communication plan. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding the target audience, context, outcomes, key messages, channels of communication, and the selection of the messenger. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into effective communication strategies for leaders. In this conversation, Paul and Scott discuss various aspects of strategic communication. They emphasize the importance of knowing the messenger and their comfort level and competencies in communication. They also explore the noise and barriers to effective communication, particularly at higher levels. The conversation highlights the focus on great power competition and the challenges of misalignment of messages. They discuss the impact of geographical distance on communication and the use of virtual tools. The importance of purposeful travel and gathering feedback is emphasized, as well as the role of trust in leadership. The conversation concludes with a recommendation for the book 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' and a reflection on the importance of personal development and continuous learning in strategic communication.Takeaways

  • Communication skills are crucial for leadership and evolve as you move up in organizations.
  • Strategic communication involves planning and executing communication to achieve organizational goals.
  • Understanding the target audience, context, outcomes, key messages, channels of communication, and selecting the right messenger are essential in strategic communication.
  • Effective communication strategies require considering the specific needs and preferences of the audience. Knowing the messenger and their comfort level and competencies is crucial in strategic communication.
  • Noise and barriers can hinder effective communication, especially at higher levels.
  • The focus on great power competition shapes strategic communication priorities.
  • Misalignment of messages can lead to confusion and diluted communication.
  • Geographical distance can be overcome with virtual communication tools.
  • Purposeful travel should be tied to the organization's strategic plan and governance.
  • Building trust is essential in effective leadership communication.
  • Personal development and continuous learning are key to improving strategic communication skills.


Jan 30, 202401:03:07
Three Key Ways to Be A Powerful and Positive Leader

Three Key Ways to Be A Powerful and Positive Leader

Retired Fleet Master Chief and current Director of Operations for Director, Navy Staff Scott A. Benning joins me to discuss the philosophies behind his book, "The Power of Positive Leadership." Scott reveals what prompted him to write his book; dives into his Inspire, Challenge, and Empower approach to leadership; and offers his thoughts on why having a positive attitude as a leader is so crucial.
Scott's book can be found on Amazon, Google Books, and other online stores and his website. Other resources mentioned in this episode include the "Minute with Maxwell" and "Bob Feller Foundation Act of Valor" podcasts.
For additional information about the topics I discuss in this and other episodes check out the Chief Petty Officer's Guide. You can order you signed and inscribed copy here.
Dec 05, 202331:03
How and Why To Communicate Purpose and Vision to Your Team
Nov 28, 202327:21
Beards in the Military?! A Case Study in Change Management
Nov 21, 202333:33
Are You an Ambassador of Goodwill or Hostility? (Episode 45)
Nov 14, 202332:14
Reflecting on Colin Powell's 13 Rules of Leadership

Reflecting on Colin Powell's 13 Rules of Leadership

The world lost a great leader last week. Join Mark "Hurricane" Halliburton, Director of Marketing at Your Next Mission™ & the American Freedom Foundation and I as we reflect on Colin Powell's 13 rules of leadership. For more information and resources join me at www.cutlassleadership.com.
Oct 17, 202341:32
How the Command Master Chief Onboard USS COLE Led During the Terrorist Attack!
Oct 11, 202333:42
How to Professionally “Push Back”

How to Professionally “Push Back”

Do you want to provide feedback on how to make a process better? Is you boss in need of some candid feedback on the personal or professional behavior? What's the role of a leader in creating an environment that is open to feedback? Join USCG Chief Petty Officer and author Phil Null and I as we offer insights and advice on how leaders and followers can professionally disagree. For additional information about the topics I discuss in this and other episodes check out the Chief Petty Officer's Guide. Other resources mentioned in this episode include the book "Learning War" by Trent Hone which provides insight on how naval leaders at the turn of the 20th century found a forum to professionally push back to make their Navy better.
Oct 03, 202338:43
Develop A High Reliability Leadership Style
Sep 26, 202346:57
Banking on Yourself! Talking Personal Financial Readiness

Banking on Yourself! Talking Personal Financial Readiness

Discussing the importance of managing personal finances as a leading and managing self line of effort. In this episode I'm with financial consultant Sarry Imbrahim discussing how to plan, organize, and make adjustments to your personal financial plans. We also offer some insights on tools and resources such as the Bank on Yourself approach, available to help those just starting out, and those who may find themselves in trouble.
Sep 12, 202335:46
Leading Up, Down, & Across to Shape Team Mental Health
Aug 28, 202337:03
How To Use Your Leadership Position to Full Potential

How To Use Your Leadership Position to Full Potential

In this episode former director of the U.S. Navy's Senior Enlisted Academy Matt Harris, joins me to discuss many aspects of using your legitimate power base. We'll discuss the importance and linkage of responsibility, authority, and accountability; insights and advice on proper delegation; and how to protect yourself from risks associated with your position. We also offer additional resources you can use to strengthen this component of your leadership cutlass. For more insights on this topics check out The Chief Petty Officer's Guide and Simon Sinek's "We Only Deserve a Styrofoam Cup" video.
Aug 08, 202332:52
Becoming a Relentless Leader!

Becoming a Relentless Leader!

How do you handle adversity as a leader or manager? Do you relentlessly try to solve the problem or do you start to blame, criticize, and defend? Join me and Master Chief Mike Bemley as we dive into his article "The Relentless Chief" and explore this topic. Any civilian or military leader can benefit from this discussion framed around the U.S. Navy's Chief's Mess and apply the insights gained today towards improving team performance. To learn more, join me at the Cutlass Leadership Concepts website and check out chapter one of The Chief Petty Officer's Guide, "Understanding and Meeting the Expectations of Being the Chief". You can also order your signed and inscribed copy here today!
Aug 01, 202330:09
Do No Harm! A Lesson in Leadership & Management From the Healthcare Industry

Do No Harm! A Lesson in Leadership & Management From the Healthcare Industry

Offering insights gained as a consultant in the oil/gas and health care industries, retired Force Master Chief Chris Engles offers advice on managing team fatigue, the five pillars high reliability organizations use to ensure success, and the importance of management by walking around. To learn more, join me at Cutlass Leadership Concepts or check out the section in chapter seven our The Chief Petty Officer's Guide, "Leading Teams & Watchstanding Fundamentals." Order your signed and inscribed copy here today!
Jul 25, 202334:10
How to Develop Team Loyalty

How to Develop Team Loyalty

Leaders and managers can get results using "have to" or "want to" leadership styles. But which one is better and why? In the episode join me and retired Fleet Master Chief Raymond Kemp to explore the importance of your personal and expert power bases in building your credibility as a leader or organization.
To learn more about the topics in the episode check out the Chief Petty Officers Guide found at
www.cutlassleadership.com and the following YouTube video. Other resources mentioned in this episode include the "Question of the Day" podcast, the "One in Four" podcast, and"The Talent Development Hot Seat" podcast. Recommended books by Raymond include "Deep is the Hunger" by Howard Thurman, "Limitless" by Jim Kwik, and "Designing Your Life" by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans.
Jul 18, 202334:04
“Your Network is Your Net Worth”: How to Develop & Use Your Connection Power to Achieve Success!
Jul 11, 202328:53
What’s This Emotional Intelligence All About!?

What’s This Emotional Intelligence All About!?

In this episode I'm joined by Quality Management System Manager, Navy Reservist and Adjunct Instructor Mike Amenti dissecting the concept of Emotional Intelligence (EI). Learn how the skills of self-assessment, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management can make you a more sturdy, versatile, and credible leader. We also offer advice on how to survive working for a low EI leader or manager. For more information check out the book Emotional Intelligence 2.0 and take time to do this self-assessment quiz.
Jun 27, 202340:31
Leading with a Delegating Style
Jun 13, 202329:18
Leading with a Coaching and Supporting Style

Leading with a Coaching and Supporting Style

Back with Glenn Mallo moving through the situational leadership model. In this episode we offer insights and experiences assessing when to use a coaching or supporting style and suggest tactics that leaders in those leadership styles can use. To learn more, make sure to check out the podcast titled, "Advice on Leading with a Directing Style", chapter two of the Chief Petty Officer's Guide, and the book The Situational Leader.
Jun 06, 202337:16
How to Be a Better Leader: One "Follower's" Perspective

How to Be a Better Leader: One "Follower's" Perspective

In this episode, friend, Sailor, and Petty Officer Guide co-author Dan Richard joins me to discuss his follower's perspective as he provide his insights on the good and bad attributes of leadership.
May 30, 202329:27
How Decision Making Changes as You Move Up

How Decision Making Changes as You Move Up

In this episode I'm joined by Master Gunnery Sergeant Scott Stalker talking through the changing nature and scope of decision making as leaders and managers move into positions of increased authority and responsibility.

May 23, 202357:24
Nine Ways To Be A More Compelling Leader!

Nine Ways To Be A More Compelling Leader!

In this episode I explain each of your nine influence tactics and provide guidance on their use. To learn more, make sure to check out chapter two of the Chief Petty Officer's Guide or The Situational Leader. You can also learn more on my YouTube channel.
May 18, 202326:36
Talking U.S. Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Leadership
May 12, 202342:34
Leading with a Directing Style

Leading with a Directing Style

With retired Command Master Chief Glenn Mallo exploring the ins and outs of the directing style of situational leadership. We talk when and why to use it, personal examples of our use with it, and the risks of misusing this leadership style. To learn more, make sure to check out chapter two of the Chief Petty Officer's Guide or The Situational Leader. You can also learn more on my YouTube channel.
May 02, 202337:33
They're Not All You! Using Empathy as a Leadership Skill (Part 2)

They're Not All You! Using Empathy as a Leadership Skill (Part 2)

In this episode I continue my discussion with retired Navy Master Chief and creator/producer of the Don't Give Up the Ship Podcast on the importance of empathy as a leadership skill. This episode was inspired by a Forbes article titles, "Empathy Is The Most Important Leadership Skill". This episode reinforces several other Cutlass Podcast episodes including "How to Be a Better Listener", "How to Use Feedback to Avoid Being a Bosshole", and "Are You An Ambassador of Goodwill or Hostility?"

Apr 25, 202332:08
They're Not All You! Using Empathy as a Leadership Skill (Part 1)

They're Not All You! Using Empathy as a Leadership Skill (Part 1)

In this episode I'm joined by retired Navy Master Chief and creator/producer of the Don't Give Up the Ship Podcast to discuss the importance of empathy as a leadership skill. This episode was inspired by a Forbes article titles, "Empathy Is The Most Important Leadership Skill". This episode reinforces several other Cutlass Podcast episodes including "How to Be a Better Listener", "How to Use Feedback to Avoid Being a Bosshole", and "Are You An Ambassador of Goodwill or Hostility?"
Apr 18, 202340:35
A Fleet Master Chief Offers Five Leadership Lessons Learned

A Fleet Master Chief Offers Five Leadership Lessons Learned

Retired Fleet Master Chief JoAnn Ortloff joins me to discuss her top five leadership lessons learned. To learn more, make sure to check out chapter two of the "Chief Petty Officer's Guide". Also, make sure to check out related content including Episode 7 "How to Safely and Professionally Challenge Your Boss", Episode 12 "Growing Into Your New Role", and Episode 32 "Becoming a Leader of Consequence!"
Apr 11, 202332:20
How to Become a Leader of Consequence

How to Become a Leader of Consequence

We all want to make a positive difference in our professional and personal lives! In this episode, I sit down with retired U.S. Air Force Command Chief, Patrick McMahon to get his philosophy, experiences, and advice on becoming a leader of consequence!
Mar 07, 202329:49
Developing & Using Your Information Power Base

Developing & Using Your Information Power Base

With U.S. Army veteran and law enforcement and emergency management professional Derrick Boyd discussing your information power base. We cover down on why information power is important, sources of information leaders and managers should access and use, and the ways information can be used. To learn more, make sure to check out chapter two of the "Chief Petty Officer's Guide".
Feb 14, 202333:20
How To Establish and Maintain Organizational Order and Discipline

How To Establish and Maintain Organizational Order and Discipline

Retired Command Master Chief and leadership/management consultant Larry Linton joins me to discuss the concept of good order and discipline...why it's important, how you know when you have it or don't, and advice on how to develop and maintain it to achieve organizational goals while improving efficiency and effectiveness. To learn more, make sure to check out chapter two of the "Chief Petty Officer's Guide". Also, make sure to check out episode 17: Standards, standards, standards, that we touch upon in this discussion.
Feb 07, 202333:12
How to Be a Better Listener!

How to Be a Better Listener!

Leaders want to communicate and be heard, but their ability to listen may be more crucial. In this episode, retired Fleet Master Chief Suz Whitman joins me to discuss why active listening skills are important, the challenges to being a good listener, and advice on how to improve this crucial leadership skill to achieve your goals and the attitude of your teams. To learn more, make sure to check out chapter two of the "Chief Petty Officer's Guide".
Jan 31, 202326:58
Advice on Becoming a Kick A$$ Public Speaker

Advice on Becoming a Kick A$$ Public Speaker

Fear of public speaking is a very common fear. In the episode, I'm joined by Navy Command Master Chief Toby Ruiz to discuss some ways to develop this skill set, while offering advice to manage and overcome your anxiety with this key form of communication and influence. To learn more, make sure to check out chapter two of the "Chief Petty Officer's Guide".
Jan 11, 202333:36
Advice on Handling “Difficult" People and Conversations!!

Advice on Handling “Difficult" People and Conversations!!

In this episode I'm joined by retired Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, CEO, and author Jim Herdt as we discuss options and offer advice on approaching those people and conversations that may be difficult and uncomfortable. To learn more about the importance of timely and honest feedback you can check out "The Chief Petty Officer's Guide", or Jim's new book Five Star Leadership Handbook.
Jan 03, 202329:22
Using the Johari Window to Avoid Getting Blindsided!
Dec 01, 202228:55
How To Use Feedback to Avoid Being a Boss-hole!

How To Use Feedback to Avoid Being a Boss-hole!

With U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy facilitator, Master Chief Nathan Rose to discuss the concept of improving organizational feedback using the Radical Candor model. Nathan and I discuss what this concept is and why it's important, how to develop an environment that encourages it, and why leaders and peers avoid it. To learn more about the importance of timely and honest feedback you can check out chapter seven and eight of "The Chief Petty Officer's Guide", the book "Radical Candor" by Kim Scott, or by watching her YouTube videos like this one.
Nov 08, 202232:12
When & How to Adjust Your Plans

When & How to Adjust Your Plans

On course? Off course? Need a new course? Check out this final episode in the short series on management with Master Chief Jim Honea. In this episode we get into the final function in the management process which involves evaluating project or evolution progress to the expected standards and how to decide if you're on target, off target but can adjust, or off target and need to stop. To learn more, join me at Cutlass Leadership Concepts or check out Chapter Four of "The Chief Petty Officer's Guide". You can also check out my article Deckplate Leadership Requires Management Competency.
Oct 25, 202230:02
How To Build and Use Your Supervision Skills

How To Build and Use Your Supervision Skills

Your management success began with developing the good plan and properly organizing resources we discussed in episode 22. In this episode, I continue the conversation with former U.S. Navy Boatswain's Mate and MCPON Jim Honea (who was the Pacific Fleet Master Chief at the time), to offer developing managers insights and advice on succeeding in the directing phase of management. From the importance of good pre-evolution brief to tips on how to effectively supervise, this episode offers a lot in 30 minutes! To learn more, check out Chapter Four of "The Chief Petty Officer's Guide". Order your signed and inscribed copy here today! You can also check out my article Deckplate Leadership Requires Management Competency.
Oct 01, 202228:38
How To Improve Your Planning and Organizing Skills

How To Improve Your Planning and Organizing Skills

Management success starts with a good plan and properly organizing resources. In this episode, I'm with former U.S. Navy Boatswain's Mate and Pacific Fleet Master Chief Jim Honea, to offer developing managers insights and advice for improving in these two management functions. To learn more, check out Chapter Four of "The Chief Petty Officer's Guide". Order your signed and inscribed copy here today! You can also check out my article Deckplate Leadership Requires Management Competency.
Sep 06, 202231:32
How to Maintain Clarity of Mind as a Leader

How to Maintain Clarity of Mind as a Leader

We all have internal and external distractions that can impeded our leadership and managerial effectiveness. Join Command Master Chief and host of The Unsung Leaders Facebook Group, Armon Owens, and I as we discuss ways to maintain personal and team clarity when working to achieve your objectives. This episode builds upon Episode 13: Villains and Heroes, so check that one out as well!
To learn more about this topic check out "The Chief Petty Officer's Guide". Order your signed and inscribed copy here today!
Aug 23, 202231:18
Leadership Advice From an EOD Master Chief !!

Leadership Advice From an EOD Master Chief !!

One style of leadership does NOT fit all situations. How do you know when to be more directive? When should you shift to coaching or delegating? How do you manage your team's response to a quick shift to a directive style of leadership? In this episode, Command Master and Chief and combat experienced EOD technician, Rick Straney offers his insights on these questions and the concept of Situational Leadership, and then puts it all into practical context with a story of a combat experience he had in Samarra, Iraq.
To learn more about this topic check out "The Chief Petty Officer's Guide". Order your signed and inscribed copy here today! Other resources include the book "The Situational Leader" by Dr. Paul Hersey.
Episode Photo: MC2 (AW/SW) Jayme Pastoric
Aug 09, 202244:50
Your Leadership “Sticks”: When & How To Use Punishment

Your Leadership “Sticks”: When & How To Use Punishment

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.
Jul 28, 202225:31
How to Use Your Writing Skills As a Leadership Tool

How to Use Your Writing Skills As a Leadership Tool

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.
Jul 12, 202236:46