The Cutlass Podcast

US Navy National Chief Petty Officers Association
  • 4.9 (30)
  • Management

The Cutlass Podcast is the official podcast of the National Chief Petty Officers Association. Join Paul Kingsbury, his co-hosts, and his guests as they dive into a variety of leadership and management development, legislative and policy affairs, and history and heritage topics to help keep the active, reserve, and retired CPO community informed and effective.

  1. Jul 29

    The Way Ahead with the Cutlass Podcast

    In today’s digital age, connecting with audiences in meaningful ways is essential, especially for organizations like the National Chief Petty Officer Association. When Paul Kingsbury decided to transition from a distinguished naval career to retirement, he recognized a gap in the conversations surrounding Navy leadership and the role of Chief Petty Officers (CPOs). The Cutlass Podcast was created to fill this void, offering a platform where experiences, insights, and leadership lessons could be shared openly. Kingsbury's extensive background as a Fleet Master Chief and his passion for writing fueled his desire to create content that resonates with both current and aspiring CPOs. But all things change... In this episode, we’ll explore the journey behind the Cutlass Podcast, how it was born from a desire to enhance communication among naval leaders, how the Cutlass Podcast will evolve as the official podcast of the National CPOA, and the transfer of hosting responsibilities to Frank Jackson.

    The Way Ahead with the Cutlass Podcast

  2. Jan 20

    Command & Control! Running Meetings That Work!

    In today’s fast-paced work environment, meetings have become a necessary evil. Often, we find ourselves questioning the purpose and productivity of these gatherings. However, with the right strategies, meetings can become powerful tools for collaboration and decision-making. In this episode, we’ll explore seven essential tips for improving meetings, drawing insights from retired Force Master Chief Toby Ruiz.

    Command & Control! Running Meetings That Work!

  3. Jan 13

    So You Want to Work as an SEL on a Flag or General Officer Staff?!

    In this episode of the Cutlass podcast, Paul Kingsbury and retired Force Master Chief Toby Ruiz discuss the journey of senior enlisted leadership within the Navy, particularly focusing on the transition to senior enlisted leadership roles and the unique challenges faced at the flag/general officer level. They explore the expectations of the role, importance of mentorship, the dynamics of working on a flag staff, and the skills necessary for success in these positions. The conversation emphasizes the need for humility, preparation, and the ability to build strong relationships within the military hierarchy. To learn more about the National Chief Petty Officers Association check out our website www.navychief.org. The guides mentioned in the podcast can be purchased at the "Chief Petty Officers Guide" or "The Petty Officers Guide" or at your online bookstore of choice.

    So You Want to Work as an SEL on a Flag or General Officer Staff?!

  4. 05/13/2025

    The Cutlass Leadership Philosophy and Framework (Episode 1)

    In this episode I'm taking time to explain what shapes my leadership philosophy and review the fundamental leadership and management concepts I'll use in future episodes and discussions. To learn more check out the Chief Petty Officer's Guide at or watch my YouTube videos!

    The Cutlass Leadership Philosophy and Framework (Episode 1)

  5. 08/13/2024

    Success is a Journey, Not a Destination! An Interview with MCPON John Hagan

    In this episode of the Cutlass Podcast, host Paul Kingsbury interviews John Hagan, the eighth Master Chief Petty Officer in the Navy. Hagan shares his journey from joining the Navy to becoming a Chief Petty Officer and ultimately to his selection as MCPON. They also talk about the influence of mentors and role models, the challenges of the drug problem in the Navy during that time, and the importance of informal discussions and peer-to-peer relationships in the Chief's mess. John also talks about the concept of success as a journey, not a destination, and the balance between the mission and taking care of people.

    Success is a Journey, Not a Destination! An Interview with MCPON John Hagan

  6. 05/28/2024

    When & How To Use Punishment as a Leader

    How willing, able, and comfortable are you at applying pressure and imposing "cost" when the situation requires it? Navy and USCG Chiefs have been doing it for decades! Creator and host of the They Had to Go Out Podcast, USCG Chief Petty Officer Phil Null and I continue our discussion on using "carrots and sticks" as leadership tools. For additional information about this topic check out chapter six of the Chief Petty Officer's Guide.

  7. 05/21/2024

    How to Use Your Writing Skills As a Leadership Tool

    Writing skills are crucial to giving you and your people a professional edge. Most leaders have insights, opinions, and sound recommendations on how things are getting done and how they could be better. And they are very willing to discuss these things in small, face-to-face venues and miss the opportunity to use writing as a broader tool of influence. Join retired naval aviator and TOPGUN instructor, former chief speechwriter to Secretary of Defense James Mattis, and author of "Topgun's Top 10", Guy Snodgrass and I as we share how leaders can and should use writing as a key tool of influence.  For additional insights and advice on this topic, check out the Chief Petty Officer's Guide. Thumbnail photo: U.S. Naval Institute.

    How to Use Your Writing Skills As a Leadership Tool

  8. 05/14/2024

    How to Manage Team Fatigue and Endurance

    Whats your current attitude toward managing your team's fatigue and endurance? Do you take a "just suck it up" approach or do you actively work to help your team manage it and the adverse impacts fatigue can have on readiness and safety? Join award winning author Dr. John Cordle and I as we explore your role and responsibility in positively shaping this aspect of team productivity.  For additional insights and advice, check out the Chief Petty Officer's Guide. Other resources include the Naval Postgraduate School Crew Endurance page and the 2015 RAND study on sleep deprivation.

    How to Manage Team Fatigue and Endurance
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Trailer

4.9
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

The Cutlass Podcast is the official podcast of the National Chief Petty Officers Association. Join Paul Kingsbury, his co-hosts, and his guests as they dive into a variety of leadership and management development, legislative and policy affairs, and history and heritage topics to help keep the active, reserve, and retired CPO community informed and effective.

Information

  • Creator
    US Navy National Chief Petty Officers Association
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    63
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 US Navy National Chief Petty Officers Association
  • Show Website
    The Cutlass Podcast

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