Welcome to How Leaders Lead where every week you get to listen in while I interview some of the very best leaders in the world.

I break down the key learning so that by the end of the episode, you'll have something simple you can apply as you develop into a better leader.

That's what this podcast is all about. Well, my guest today is Dr. Mark

Esmer, who served as the 27th United States Secretary of Defense under President Donald Trump.

He has spent his whole life in military service, and I got to say, he is proof positive that we can

accomplish amazing things when we stay focused on the mission.

If you're like most leaders, you're dealing with a million details a day.

And it's just way too easy to take your eye off the bigger goals you're working toward.

But this conversation with Mark will remind you why it's vital to stay focused on the mission.

It's how you bring people together and navigate situations even when people don't see eye to

eye. And I got to tell you, Mark knows a thing or two about that after his time in the Trump

administration. If you've ever disagreed with your boss, and let's be honest, who has it?

You're going to love these insights.

Before we jump in, though, I want to add one more thing.

This Saturday is Veterans Day when we honor all the people who have served in the United States military

and the incredible sacrifices they've made in service of our country.

And I can think of no better conversation to mark the occasion than this one. and the incredible sacrifices they've made in service of our country.

And I can think of no better conversation to mark the occasion than this one.

And thank you to all of you out there who are protecting us and keeping us free.

So here's my conversation with my good friend and soon to be yours, Dr. Mark Esford.

You know, I want to get into how you lead and how you climb the ranks to become the Secretary of Defense.

But first, let's start at the beginning.

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