CNN’s Kaitlan Collins speaks with retired Four-Star Admiral William McRaven, the former head of US Special Operations Command who oversaw the successful raid that killed Osama bin Laden, about how he thinks Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth should handle the fallout from his use of unclassified Signal group chats to discuss sensitive military information.

Conquering Crisis: Leadership Lessons from Admiral William McRaven

In the realm of military leadership, few figures stand as tall as retired four-star Admiral William McRaven. As the former commander of the United States Special Operations Command, McRaven is perhaps best known for orchestrating the Navy SEAL raid that led to the death of Osama bin Laden. His extensive experience in high-stakes environments has culminated in his latest book, *Conquering Crisis: Ten Lessons to Lead You Before You Need Them*, which offers invaluable insights into leadership during tumultuous times.
The Essence of Crisis Leadership

In *Conquering Crisis*, McRaven emphasizes that crisis leadership is fundamentally different from everyday leadership. The stakes are higher, the time constraints are tighter, and the pressure is immense. In a crisis, leaders must navigate a landscape where lives and reputations are at risk, and the eyes of the public are watching closely. McRaven’s insights are particularly relevant in light of current events unfolding at the Pentagon, where leadership challenges are evident.

During a recent interview, McRaven expressed his concerns regarding Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s leadership approach. He noted that while every American should hope for the success of the Secretary of Defense, the current leadership team may not be adequately equipped to handle the complexities of the situation. McRaven’s advice is clear: surround yourself with individuals who will provide unvarnished truth, even if it is uncomfortable. This principle is encapsulated in a chapter of his book titled “The Council of Colonels,” which underscores the importance of having trusted advisors who can offer honest assessments.

The Importance of Honesty and Transparency

One of the key themes in McRaven’s book is the necessity of confronting crises head-on. He argues that leaders must be honest with their teams and the public, especially when the crisis may stem from their own decisions. The quicker a leader acknowledges the problem, the sooner they can begin to address it. McRaven emphasizes that humility is essential in leadership; without it, leaders risk being overwhelmed by the challenges they face.

In the context of the Pentagon’s current challenges, McRaven’s insights resonate strongly. He believes that the failure to address issues transparently can exacerbate the situation. As he stated, “The truth always comes out.” Leaders must be willing to accept responsibility for their actions and communicate openly with their teams. This approach not only fosters trust but also enables leaders to identify and resolve problems more effectively.

The Role of Communication in Crisis Management

Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful crisis management. McRaven highlights the importance of using appropriate channels to disseminate information. In the interview, he pointed out that the Pentagon’s handling of classified information has raised concerns. The use of platforms like Signal for sharing operational details, which McRaven argues should be classified, illustrates a breakdown in communication protocols.

He stresses that operational details, especially those related to military actions, should be treated with the utmost care. McRaven’s experience in the military has taught him that even seemingly minor details can have significant implications. He urges leaders to prioritize secure communication channels and to ensure that their teams are equipped to handle sensitive information appropriately.

Accountability and Leadership

Another critical aspect of McRaven’s philosophy is accountability. He believes that leaders must hold themselves accountable before expecting the same from their teams. In the interview, he emphasized the importance of acknowledging mistakes and learning from them. “You’re going to make mistakes,” he said. “Hold yourself accountable. That’s the first step to being a good leader.”

This principle is particularly relevant in the context of the current leadership at the Pentagon. McRaven’s call for accountability serves as a reminder that leaders must set the tone for their organizations. By demonstrating accountability, leaders can foster a culture of trust and responsibility within their teams.
The Need for a Strong Leadership Team

McRaven’s insights extend beyond individual accountability; he also emphasizes the importance of building a strong leadership team. He advocates for surrounding oneself with individuals who possess diverse perspectives and expertise. In the military, this is often achieved through the “Council of Colonels,” where seasoned officers provide candid advice to their superiors. McRaven encourages leaders to seek out individuals who will challenge their thinking and provide honest feedback.

In the case of Secretary Hegseth, McRaven suggests that he should prioritize building a team that includes trusted advisors who can offer unfiltered insights. This approach not only enhances decision-making but also ensures that leaders are well-informed about the challenges they face.

Conclusion: Lessons for Today’s Leaders

Admiral William McRaven’s *Conquering Crisis* offers a roadmap for leaders navigating the complexities of crisis management. His emphasis on honesty, transparency, accountability, and the importance of a strong leadership team provides valuable lessons for leaders in all sectors, not just the military. As the Pentagon grapples with its current challenges, McRaven’s insights serve as a timely reminder of the principles that underpin effective leadership.

In a world where crises are