#04 Conducting Calm: Balancing the Tempo in Times of Crisis"

16/06/2025 13 min

Listen "#04 Conducting Calm: Balancing the Tempo in Times of Crisis""

Episode Synopsis

Join us as we dive into Chapter 9 of retired Admiral William H. McRaven’s Conquering Crisis, titled “Dictate the Tempo”—a masterclass in seizing control when uncertainty reigns. Drawing from McRaven’s storied military career and leadership philosophy, this episode unpacks how to shift from reacting to leading during high-pressure situations. We’ll explore the core principle of “tempo”: why setting the rhythm of action—not letting the crisis set it for you—is critical to overcoming setbacks. Learn how McRaven’s strategies, like prioritizing decisive moves, disrupting adversaries’ momentum, and maintaining psychological resilience, apply to modern crises in business, politics, and everyday life. Key takeaways include: The “OODA Loop” in action (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) and how to accelerate decision-making. Tactical pauses: When slowing down creates opportunities to regain control. Real-world examples of tempo-setting, from military operations to corporate turnarounds.Whether you’re navigating a organizational challenge, leading a team through turbulence, or preparing for future disruptions, this episode equips you with actionable lessons to own the timeline of any crisis. Tune in to discover how to turn chaos into a catalyst—and leave the storm stronger than when you entered it. https://www.amazon.com/Conquering-Crisis-Lessons-Learn-Before/dp/1538772671