020: Matt Eversmann – How To Lead Soldiers Into Battle (Black Hawk Down)

Episode 020: Matt Eversmann – How To Lead Soldiers Into Battle (Black Hawk Down) I was truly honored to speak with an American Hero for this episode of The Learning Leader Show. Matt Eversmann led soldiers into one of the most dangerous places in the world. His story was told in the book and movie, “Black Hawk Down.” His specific character was played by Josh Hartnett. We discussed the story behind what really happened in Mogadishu… Matt Eversmann has received many military decorations, including the Army Service Ribbon, the National Defense Service Ribbon, eight Army Achievement medals, and four Army Commendation medals. For his service in Somalia, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor device and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. Before his retirement in early 2008, Eversmann served 18 months in Iraq leading an elite Army Ranger force. Episode 020: Matt Eversmann – How To Lead Soldiers Into Battle (Black Hawk Down) Subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio. The Learning Leader Show “Fear is something you have to control. It’s okay to be scared.” - Matt Eversmann describing what it’s like to be shot at. Some Questions I Ask: What are the differences between leading soldiers into battle vs leading in a business setting? What are you feeling as you’re being shot at? What was it like to be portrayed by Josh Hartnett in the movie Black Hawk Down? How could you have handled the adverse situation better? Why do we struggle to implement and execute what we’ve learned? How would you define a learning leader What specific lessons learned from the mission that you took back to Fort Benning?