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Commander's Intent
Commander's Intent with Derek Oaks
When the pressure’s on, can you make the call? Commander's Intent helps leaders at every level make confident, timely decisions that drive real results. Hosted by Colonel (Ret.) Derek Oaks, former Air Force fighter pilot and leadership mentor, this podcast blends stories from combat and business to teach you how to lead with clarity, courage, and purpose. Learn to define your mission, empower your team, and execute with confidence.
Commander's Intent
Are you a narcissistic leader or an empathetic one?
In this episode, Derek Oaks unpacks one of the most defining traits of great leadership—empathy. Through a deeply personal story about nearly losing his son while preparing for deployment, Derek reveals how empathetic leadership from his commander kept him grounded, capable, and effective during the hardest season of his life. This powerful episode highlights the real difference between narcissistic leadership and empathetic leadership, why empathy strengthens accountability, and how true leaders support without disempowering.