Sergeant Major Carlos Ruiz - Culture, Communication, and Modern Marines

Leadership is often viewed through the lens of decisiveness. Direct orders and quick thinking. But the most impactful modern leaders are those who prioritize collaboration, and remain present in their leadership roles.

I’ve been thinking about the future, and today’s junior Marines are different: researchers, thinkers, and seekers of authenticity. They aren’t afraid to ask the hard questions.

In this candid conversation, Sergeant Major Carlos Ruiz and I explore why leaders must shift from issuing orders to showing genuine interest and investing in an individual Marine’s life through the "one Marine" theory: how a single individual can turn an entire battalion around.

Whether discussing the evolution of "field day" or the weight of addressing mental health and fitness, Carlos emphasizes that the Marine Corps is a tribe that must constantly be taught its ethics, its culture, and its worth. We talked about executive presence, senior enlisted slating, and the "Message to Garcia" mindset. Today’s leadership has a mandate to ensure every Marine whether staying in or transitioning out is prepared for the life that follows their service.

Watch the full video episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ip9JCSQ7x5U