What does a pilot do when a non-combatant appears while they're guiding a weapon?

Pilots must make a split-second, moral decision to divert the weapon away from the non-combatant, even if it means not attacking the target. (00:02)

What are the physical and mental challenges of being a fighter pilot?

It's a very athletic activity that requires physical strength and resilience due to the G-force pressure. It also demands very fast reaction times, which slow down as a person ages. (05:31)

What is it like to fly combat missions?

It's a mix of "absolute boredom" and "absolute intense action." During intense moments, training takes over, which helps control emotions and allows the pilot to rely on their skills and teamwork. (07:52)

What emotions do pilots feel during a mission?

The biggest emotion is the fear of letting others down. Pilots feel pressure to perform their best because the entire team, from planners to maintenance crews, is counting on them to successfully complete the mission. (08:50)

How do you reconcile situations where a moral decision in combat doesn't work out and causes harm?

You must focus on your motivation and the decision you made at the time, not the outcome. A mistake is different from a crime. If the decision was principled, and you were humble enough to ask for help, you can justify it in your heart, even if the outcome was affected by things you couldn't control. (12:02)

What are the "laws of armed conflict?"

These are international laws that determine what constitutes a legal target in war, such as combatants or those who supply the enemy. Pilots have a moral and legal responsibility not to attack targets that are not considered legal. (14:04)

What is the role of the Supreme Allied Commander, Europe (SACEUR)?

The SACEUR is the military general in charge of NATO's military arm. The executive officer to the SACEUR acts as a personal chief of staff, helping to vet policies and coordinate meetings with heads of state. (18:30)

What is a good way to interact with a person experiencing homelessness?

Instead of giving money, which may only assuage your own guilt and not help their long-term situation, simply ask for their name. This creates a moment of equality and a personal transaction that acknowledges their worth as a person. (31:12)

Why is it important to use diplomacy and cultural intelligence when working with other nations?

Different cultures have different mindsets, and you can't just expect them to mirror your perspective. You have to be willing to listen, talk, and have difficult conversations constructively. This helps you integrate unique strengths and build trust. (23:23)

What are the four types of integrity needed to live a whole and integrated life?

The four types of integrity are spiritual, physical, emotional, and relational. If any one of these is lacking, a person is not whole, which can negatively affect their life. (39:33)

How does mentoring play a role in personal growth?

Mentoring is a two-way street. A healthy mentor-mentee relationship involves both parties learning from each other, which helps to build relational growth and accountability. (43:25)

Why is it important to challenge your own core beliefs?

Asking yourself, "What if I am radically wrong?" can lead to introspection and personal growth. By objectively examining your beliefs, you may find you were wrong about something, which can lead you to become more compassionate and understanding. (51:20)

What is complex PTSD and how is it different from regular PTSD?

Complex PTSD is the result of multiple forms of trauma happening repeatedly, often during a person's developmental years, which gets deeply ingrained in their nervous system. In contrast, regular PTSD is normally based on one traumatic event. (09:05)

How do you heal from relational trauma?

What is broken in relationships has to be restored in relationships. You have to find safe people and healthy relationships to learn from and grow with, which may not be your family of origin. (05:54)

How do you know when you're in survival mode if you don't realize it?

You can become curious about yourself and your behaviors. Look for emotions and actions that don't quite match the situation, like getting angry about something minor, which can be a sign of deeper issues. (54:49, 1:07:14)

What is the benefit of embracing your story instead of ignoring past trauma?

Ignoring it only makes it fester. When you embrace your past, you can love yourself through the healing process, allowing your body and mind to stop living in survival mode. (01:44)