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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.
Episodes
9 episodes
What are the 5 keys to a successful career?
In this episode, Derek Oaks breaks down the five essential keys to building a successful career—no matter your field. Drawing from his experience as an Air Force squadron commander, Derek reveals why technical competence, communication, ...
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10:20
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Can you trust AI with your important decisions?
In this episode, Derek and Rob break down what AI really is, how it functions as a decision-support system, and why leaders must be cautious about trusting it blindly. They share real examples—from aviation to law—showing how AI can bo...
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35:15
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...
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10:06
Can I Really Make Better Decision Faster?
This episode dives into the life and legacy of Colonel John Boyd—the fighter pilot and strategist behind the revolutionary OODA Loop. Derek Oaks breaks down Boyd’s unmatched brilliance, his role in shaping modern fighter aircraft like the F-16 ...
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11:44
What should be the Chief of Staff’s Commander’s Intent?
“The money goes to the trusted and prepared.” In this candid conversation, Colonel Derek Oaks and General Mike Minihan dissect what it truly takes to rebuild and resource the U.S. Air Force for the threats of tomorrow. From the br...
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48:24
What is a Fighter Pilot Debrief & Why Would I Use it?
In this episode of Commander's Intent, retired Air Force Colonel and fighter pilot Derek Oaks reveals the real reason U.S. fighter pilots stay at the top of their game—and it’s not the jets, the gear, or the swagger. It’s the
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14:50
Are You More of a Commander or Follower?
True leadership isn’t about authority — it’s about responsibility. In this episode of Commander’s Intent, retired Air Force Colonel and Fighter Pilot Derek Oaks breaks down the real meaning behind the word Commander — to entrust, empower, and t...
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12:16
Are you a Wimpy Leader or a Confident one?
In this episode of Commander's Intent, retired Air Force Colonel and leadership mentor Derek Oaks reveals what it truly means to be a confident leader — not one driven by ego or control, but by clarity, competence, and calm under pressure. Draw...
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20:52
What is Commanders Intent & Why Should You Care?
In this premiere episode of Commander's Intent, retired Air Force Colonel and fighter pilot Derek Oaks shares how confident decision-making separates great leaders from the rest. Drawing from real-life combat and leadership experiences, Derek r...
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14:30