In Part 2, we dig deeper into how the U.S. Naval Academy develops ethical, resilient leaders—and how those same lessons apply to coaching. Jim breaks down the Academy’s leadership lab, the sophomore ethics course, and the “2 for 7” contract that defines a midshipman’s commitment.
We also talk about his new book, Crucibles—what inspired it, the diverse organizations studied (from NASA to the Gurkhas to the Mafia), and what modern teams and coaches can learn from how these groups design challenges that forge true belonging and purpose.
Topics
- The Academy as a “leadership laboratory”
- Sophomore ethics: Ethical & Moral Reasoning for the Naval Leader
- “2 for 7” commitment and the cost of service
- Moral stress tests: real-world ethical scenarios
- Time management and “the alligator closest to the boat”
- Jim’s new book Crucibles — lessons from NASA, Gurkhas, Mafia, and more
- The fine line between initiation and hazing
- Designing crucibles that build learning organizations (five elements)
- Why standards—not comfort—should define leadership
- Lightning round: Season of Life, standards > stats, defining success, early mornings
Five takeaways for coaches
- Teach ethics like a skill. Pressure-test decision-making.
- Lead with standards. Stop chasing external validation.
- Design your crucible. If it doesn’t serve growth, it’s hazing.
- Master time. Handle “the alligator closest to the boat.”
- Build a learning culture. Focus on mastery, challenge, culture, expertise, and strategy.
Resources mentioned
- Crucibles — Jim McNeil & Eric Smith (audiobook available)
- Season of Life — Jeffrey Marx
Pull quotes
- “If you can’t tie a tradition to a positive result, it’s hazing.”
- “Crucibles define who belongs—not by exclusion, but by shared purpose.”
- “You can’t lead others unless you know yourself.”
- “Standards—not external judges—have to drive us.”
- “Time management is the skill: handle the alligator closest to the boat.”
Listen & links
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