Say It Skillfully® — Rorke Denver, Lessons from a SEAL Commander

Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. Episode 163 is the 32nd monthly feature of “Our Voices,” intended to accelerate social change that levels the playing field—helping everyone live to their full potential. The aim is for you to see a bit of yourself in these journeys, and embrace—we’re more similar than not. Molly is joined by Rorke Denver, who gives an inside look into what it has been like being a Navy SEAL Commander, family man, author, actor and keynote speaker. First, Rorke talks about his upbringing, sharing how thankful he is for his parents, how he found his footing in the world by playing sports—culminating in leading a 2-time national championship lacrosse team at Syracuse University. He knew from an early age that with discipline, focus, drive and a dream, he could do anything. Hear how Rorke was a keen and effective learner, even though classroom academics were not his strong suit. Rorke shares how the ideas of service and earning your spot at the table (from Winston Churchill’s autobiography) were driving forces in his decision to join the military; the challenge of an 80% attrition rate fueled his desire to be a SEAL. He talks about the toughness of SEAL training, and explains how keeping a “long range focus” and bringing those around him up were key factors in making it through the intense training. Rorke opens up about his time as a SEAL commander, shares what it was like leading hundreds of harsh missions with life or death consequences, praises the teammates he had along the way, and tells stories from those missions, including a close call that demonstrates how “making your practice perfect” led to lives being saved. Lastly, Rorke talks about his post-military life. He shares lessons learned and top takeaways from becoming a best-selling author, actor, keynote speaker and family man. Don’t miss Rorke’s advice for leaders, including the importance of having non-negotiables, and how the best of the best are “students of leadership.” Molly’s thought for the week (thanks Rorke): Reach for an inch.