Jocko Podcast Episode 464: "Default Aggressive. Combat Ready Leadership From Estonia. With Estonian Spec Ops Soldier, Remo Ojaste"

Hosts:

• Jocko Willink
• Echo Charles

Guest:

• Remo Ojaste, Estonian Special Operations Soldier and Co-founder of Combat Ready

Release Date: November 13, 2024

1. Introduction to Echelon Front's Field Training Exercise (FTX)

Timestamp: 00:00 - 04:36

Jocko Willink introduces the episode by discussing Echelon Front's FTX, a simulated combat event designed to evaluate and train leadership under chaotic and high-pressure scenarios. Participants from diverse backgrounds—including finance, energy, law enforcement, military, sales, and construction—are given rudimentary tactical training and tasked with missions such as urban combat operations, hostage rescues, and building clearances. The primary objective of FTX is not just tactical proficiency but observing how individuals respond to extreme stress, leadership challenges, and team breakdowns.

Notable Quote:
"The training is not for the tactics of the training. It's for leadership."
— Jocko Willink at 02:15

2. Discovering Estonian Special Operations Excellence

Timestamp: 04:36 - 07:31

During an FTX event, Jocko observes two Estonian Special Operations soldiers performing exceptionally amidst the chaos, remaining calm and effectively leading their team. Intrigued by their performance, Jocko consults with JP, the program director, who reveals that these men are Remo Ojaste and his colleague—experienced Estonian SEALs who have served in Afghanistan. Recognizing their alignment with Echelon Front's leadership principles, a partnership is formed between Echelon Front and Combat Ready, an Estonian company dedicated to teaching similar leadership and discipline principles across various sectors.

3. Remo Ojaste’s Early Life and Background in Estonia

Timestamp: 07:31 - 12:38

Remo Ojaste shares his personal history, providing context about Estonia's geopolitical struggles, including its persistent contention with Russia and its history of occupations. Born in 1989, Remo grew up during a transformative period as Estonia regained its independence through the "singing revolution." His parents were involved in small-scale illegal activities in the early 90s to survive the economic instability post-independence. Remo also discusses his family's military background, with his grandfathers having fought on both sides during World War II, symbolizing resilience and strength.

Notable Quote:
"They were like super hard people... just hard people doing hard things, living through tough times."
— Remo Ojaste at 11:03

4. Transition to Military Service and Training

Timestamp: 12:38 - 35:55

Remo discusses his mandatory conscription into the Estonian military, detailing the rigorous boot camp that emphasized discipline, physical fitness, and basic soldiering skills. He contrasts his experiences with the outdated Soviet-style training still prevalent in some units, highlighting the challenges of transitioning to modern, NATO-aligned military practices. Through persistent effort and high performance, Remo advanced to become a squad leader, receiving advanced training from seasoned veterans returning from Afghanistan. This period solidified his leadership capabilities and prepared him for real combat scenarios.

Notable Quote:
"By the end of the three months, I lost all of my weight and I was in shape."
— Remo Ojaste at 35:10

5. Deployment to Afghanistan and Combat Operations

Timestamp: 35:55 - 87:03

In 2013, Remo was deployed to Afghanistan with his unit, engaging in operations aimed at enhancing local security and training Afghan forces. He recounts his first mission where his team faced unexpected gunfire, necessitating swift communication and adaptation under fire. Despite the chaos, Remo credits his rigorous training and leadership principles for their ability to maintain composure, execute their duties effectively, and avoid casualties.

Notable Quote:
"It was the first time in a contact... I have no idea what's happening. But our training paid off because it was all cover move, keeping things simple."
— Remo Ojaste at 58:37

Remo also touches on the high operational tempo and the challenges of maintaining effectiveness without sufficient rest, drawing parallels to his experiences in the Estonian Special Operations Force.

6. Founding and Building Combat Ready

Timestamp: 87:03 - 141:35

After his military service, Remo co-founded Combat Ready with the mission to translate military leadership principles into civilian applications. Leveraging his combat experience and the principles taught by Echelon Front, Combat Ready began offering leadership training, initially facing challenges in establishing credibility and securing clients. Through persistence, strategic relationship-building, and adapting military doctrines to business contexts, Combat Ready gained traction. Remo highlights key milestones, such as winning significant contracts, expanding their reach across Europe, and integrating feedback to refine their training programs.

Notable Quote:
"We got something. We know what we're doing. We do the right things for the right reasons."
— Remo Ojaste at 110:00

Combat Ready emphasizes principles like extreme ownership, decentralized command, and prioritization, which resonate across various industries and foster effective leadership.

7. Expanding Influence and Implementing Leadership Principles

Timestamp: 141:35 - 174:25

Combat Ready's growth is attributed to its ability to adapt and implement tested military leadership principles in diverse settings, from corporate environments to youth organizations. Remo discusses the development of structured training programs, including a belt system to signify proficiency levels, and the importance of repetition and muscle memory in ingraining these principles. The partnership with Echelon Front and continuous iteration based on client feedback have been pivotal in establishing Combat Ready as a credible and impactful training organization.

Notable Quote:
"If you do things what's written in the book, you can't go wrong."
— Remo Ojaste at 158:37

Additionally, Combat Ready's foray into publishing, including localized versions of leadership books for Estonian audiences, underscores their commitment to cultural adaptation and accessibility of their teachings.

8. Conclusion and Future Aspirations

Timestamp: 174:25 - End

In the closing segments, Remo reflects on the journey of Combat Ready, emphasizing the importance of authentic leadership and the impact of disciplined practices both in military and civilian realms. He underscores the company's mission to transform Estonian and European culture by empowering individuals with robust leadership skills. The episode wraps up with high praise from Jocko for Remo's dedication and the potential of Combat Ready to continue making significant contributions to leadership development.

Notable Quote:
"The ultimate goal is to change Estonian culture, help people, help the youth... to make Europe great."
— Remo Ojaste at 167:54

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership Under Pressure: Combat Ready's FTX simulates high-stress environments to train and evaluate leadership capabilities.
• Cultural Resilience: Estonia's turbulent history has shaped individuals like Remo, instilling resilience and adaptability.
• Military to Civilian Transition: Remo successfully translates military leadership principles into effective civilian training programs.
• Strategic Growth: Through partnerships, strategic relationship-building, and iterative improvements, Combat Ready has established itself as a leader in corporate and leadership training.
• Continuous Learning: Emphasizing principles like extreme ownership, decentralized command, and prioritization fosters effective and adaptable leadership across various sectors.

Final Thoughts:

Remo Ojaste's journey from an Estonian Special Operations soldier to a transformative leader in the civilian sector exemplifies the profound impact of military training on personal and professional development. His dedication to instilling disciplined leadership principles continues to empower individuals and organizations, underscoring the universal applicability of these timeless strategies.

For More Information:

• Combat Ready: combatready.ee
• Remo Ojaste on Instagram: @RemoOjaste
• Jocko Podcast: jockopodcast.com