In this episode of Alignment First, I sit down with Mike Wisecup, Navy SEAL and Naval Academy grad, to unpack the parallels between leaving the military, leaving sport, and navigating identity shifts. We dig into the grit required to earn a spot in the SEAL teams, the culture of brotherhood forged through adversity, and the challenges of redefining yourself after decades in uniform.
Key Takeaways
- Adversity accelerates connection — suffering together builds bonds faster than time.
- SEAL culture thrives on starting every platoon at square one: crawl, walk, run.
- Transitioning from military to civilian life demands redefining identity and success.
- Leadership in corporate or athletics carries the same weight as life-or-death decisions.
- True fulfillment comes when your lifestyle aligns with your values, not just your resume.
Quotes
- “The more intense the adversity, the deeper the bond.” – Mike Wisecup
- “Everyone starts together — crawl, walk, run.” – Mike Wisecup
- “What you think is discipline in uniform is often the institution’s girdle. Out here, you have to rebuild your own.” – Mike Wisecup
Connect with Mike Wisecup
LinkedIn → Mike Wisecup
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