In this episode of The VMI Leader Journey, we sit down with retired U.S. Army Green Beret Lieutenant Colonel Scott Mann—our 2025–26 Leader‑in‑Residence at the Virginia Military Institute. Scott shares hard‑earned leadership lessons from his Special Forces career, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan during the Global War on Terror. Whether you’re a VMI cadet, a prospective student, a veteran, or someone interested in leadership and international security, this conversation delivers powerful insights on how authentic leaders build trust, influence without rank, and lead under extreme pressure.

Scott discusses:

• His journey to becoming a Green Beret
• What the 9/11 generation learned about resilience, mission focus, and human connection
• How Special Forces teams build relationships “by, with, and through” local partners
• The role of emotional intelligence, storytelling, and relatability in modern leadership
• Why “failure is just a timestamp” in any leader’s development
• The importance of authenticity and connection in the military and beyond

For anyone exploring military leadership, global conflict, cross‑cultural communication, or VMI’s unique leadership environment, this episode offers both practical tools and meaningful reflection.

🔗 About the VMI Leader Journey Podcast

The VMI Leader Journey shares the leadership stories, lessons, and lived experiences of VMI cadets, alumni, faculty, and distinguished speakers who visit Post. Though rooted in the traditions of the Virginia Military Institute, these conversations are relevant for anyone interested in leadership development—military or civilian.