Leadership Lessons from a Navy Submariner (feat. CDR William C. Spears)
Commander William C. Spears is an active military professional with a distinguished career in the United States Navy. Formerly an enlisted Sailor, he is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, the Naval Postgraduate School, the Air Command and Staff College, and the Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy. His service includes duty in nuclear-powered submarines across a variety of classes and mission profiles, including assignments as the Weapons Officer of a fast-attack submarine and the Executive Officer of a Trident missile submarine. He resides wherever the Navy requires him and is married with three children.
HOST
Matt Poepsel, PhD
Vice President & Godfather of Talent Optimization
GUEST
CDR WIlliam C. Spears
Submariner & Author, Stoicism as a Warrior Philosophy
In this episode, Commander William C. Spears of the U.S. Navy joins the show to share leadership lessons forged under pressure, from commanding nuclear submarines to building resilient, high-performing teams.
He reflects on what it means to lead with trust, humility, and a mission-first mindset, offering tactical insights from over two decades in the Navy. Commander Spears unpacks the difference between compliance and commitment, the critical importance of psychological safety, and why character always outlasts charisma. He also explores how today’s leaders can foster accountability, push through chaos, and build cultures of excellence that outlast any one individual.
Key Takeaways:
- Trust is the foundation of strong leadership.
- Leaders should aim for commitment, not just compliance.
- Psychological safety allows teams to think and speak freely.
- Character is more lasting than charisma.
- Clear plans help teams perform under pressure.
Additional Resources:
CDR William C. Spears
Stoicism as a Warrior Philosophy (book): https://a.co/d/1uxjZHa
Website: https://williamcspears.com
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/william-spears-89130443/
Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all
Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/
Listen on
Recent Episodes
