Harder Not Smarter Podcast
#0043 - John Dailey - Tough Rugged Bastards
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Episode notes
Join us as we discuss John Dailey's book 'Tough Rugged Bastards' and the story of MARSOC, the Marine Raiders. We'll discuss the process of getting the book approved by the military and the challenges faced. We'll also talk about John's motivation for writing the book and the benefits of getting an MFA in creative writing. We discuss the difference between recon Marines and force recon, and the role of force recon in working for the force commander. And we also touch on the importance of a culture of accountability and constructive criticism in high-performing organizations. The conversation also covers the experiences of John Dailey during his time in the Marine Corps and as a member of the first Marine Special Operations Company.
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John’s Links
https://www.amazon.com/Tough-Rugged-Bastards-Special-Operations/dp/163758735X
Chapters
00:00 The Approval Process and Challenges
04:04 Motivation for Writing the Book and Getting an MFA
08:44 Difference Between Recon Marines and Force Recon
12:26 The Culture of Accountability
18:37 Imposter Syndrome and Excellence
23:59 Custom Building a High-Speed Unit
28:14 Training and Preparation for Deployment
34:55 Focus on CQB in Iraq
37:18 Challenges and Successes of the First Marine Special Operations Company
38:00 The Importance of Intelligence Support in Operations
40:34 The First Mission Based on Intel Work
43:23 Rolling Out and Capturing a Bomb Maker
48:09 Notable SEALs in Iraq
50:07 Sentiment from SOCOM, Marine Corps, and the Unit
53:29 Developing an Assessment and Selection Program
55:33 Structural Changes and Future of Marine Raiders
59:17 Training Focus and Future Plans
01:02:50 Writing Process and Mentors
01:05:26 Book Availability and Events
01:07:44 Future Writing Projects and Coaching
Takeaways
The process of getting a book approved by the military can be lengthy and requires following the rules and making changes.
Having an MFA in creative writing can provide the confidence and skills needed to write a book.
Force recon Marines work for the force commander and operate deeper behind enemy lines compared to recon Marines.
A culture of accountability and constructive criticism is important in high-performing organizations.
Imposter syndrome can be a driving force for excellence and continuous improvement.
Custom building a unit allows for the development of new SOPs and procedures that can improve mission success.
Training and preparation for deployment can vary depending on the mission and location.
CQB (Close Quarters Battle) becomes a main mission focus for force recon Marines deployed to Iraq. The first Marine Special Operations Company (DETF-1) faced challenges and successes during their deployment to Iraq in 2003.
Intelligence support played a crucial role in their operations, and the unit had a strong focus on the basics of shooting, moving, communicating, and surviving.
The creation of the Marine Raiders was a significant development in Marine Special Operations.
John A. Dailey plans to continue writing and has future projects in mind, including books on military life lessons and mental toughness.
He is also involved in coaching and training Marine Raiders.