In this episode, Chris dives deep into the often-overlooked emotional and cultural barriers to effective military training. Set against the backdrop of his early work with Estonian soldiers, he shares how initial efforts were met with resistance, mistrust, and even quiet hostility.

The core issue? Feedback was taken as personal criticism, not professional development. Chris explores the concept of “breaking the horse”—earning trust slowly, proving his knowledge through action, and patiently demonstrating that he wasn’t there to control, but to help.The conversation highlights key differences between being an instructor and being a leader, especially in environments where rank is misunderstood as authority to teach.

Chris also reflects on what it means to truly care: to take personal ownership of your role, your impact, and the growth of those you lead. He didn’t just train soldiers; he invested in them, even when the reward was ridicule.

This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership is not granted—it’s earned. And sometimes, the most effective way to change minds isn’t by demanding respect, but by quietly demonstrating value and letting results speak for themselves. A must-listen for anyone navigating complex group dynamics, leadership, or personal growth.

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