E28: Dr. Stan Skrabut on Lessons from the Military for Leadership Excellence

In this episode, we are honored to have Dr. Stan Skrabut, the Director of Learning Technology at Dean College, as our distinguished guest. With a career spanning decades in organizational training, instructional technology, and leadership, as well as being the author of five impactful books, Dr. Skrabut brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Dr. Skrabut shares his journey from his foundational leadership training in the U.S. Air Force to his current role at Dean College. He provides a comprehensive guide for those stepping into their first leadership roles, offering insights into the principles that have guided him throughout his career. From aligning team goals with organizational strategy to establishing trust and fostering collaboration, Dr. Skrabut offers actionable strategies that any leader—new or experienced—can implement to elevate their impact. In this episode, we explore the art of goal setting, creating alignment through OKRs (Objectives and Key Results), and the critical importance of transparent communication. Dr. Skrabut dives deep into how leaders can empower their teams by removing obstacles, providing the right tools, and building an environment where individuals can thrive. He also emphasizes the value of honest feedback and the practice of delivering it in a way that motivates and inspires growth. Dr. Skrabut’s insights extend to developing a culture of continuous improvement within organizations. He discusses the lessons learned from military leadership, including the importance of After-Action Reviews, and shares how leaders can reflect on and adapt their approaches to meet challenges effectively. Furthermore, he opens up about his personal leadership philosophy, which prioritizes enabling others to excel and succeed as the true measure of a leader’s success.