Ever wondered what it's like to be thrust into a high-stress situation, armed with laser tag weapons and a sense of impending chaos? How would you manage your thoughts and make decisive calls? Today I (Louis Zezeran) talk with Robert Käsper, the head of Field Training Exercises (FTX) for Combat Ready and we discuss how we simulate battlefield conditions to teach the principles of leadership. Through our discussion, we dissect the core essence of these exercises, emphasizing the importance of independent decision-making and understanding mission boundaries. Robert shares his military journey, which began with mandatory service, offering a comparison between volunteer-based Defense League and the constraints of the military's compulsory service. He provides a unique perspective on military discipline and how it differs from the supportive environment of the FTX. We also discuss how military boot camps are designed to transform soldiers, a process that can often be shocking for those unaccustomed to such strict boundaries. Lastly, we explore the value of making mistakes and allowing others to learn from their failures. Robert discusses how he uses this approach in helping young people develop their skills, stressing the importance of self-directed decision making. From exploring the role of medics on the battlefield to discussing leadership in high-pressure combat situations, this episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone interested in the military or personal growth. 0:00:00 - What are the Combat Ready Field Training Exercises (FTX) 0:07:21 - Louis is again fascinated by conscription in Estonia 0:16:14 - Methods of Discipline and Training 0:20:19 - Allowing Others to Fail.... just enough 0:33:27 - Medic's Role in the Military 0:36:50 - Squad Leaders' Importance in Combat 0:42:18 - Effective Battlefield Leadership and Delegation 0:52:25 - Different Perspectives on Teaching If you have any questions, write to me: louis@combatready.ee Keep an eye on our activities and future trainings: https://www.combatready.ee Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CombatReadyEE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatreadyee LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combatready Want to learn more about the principles of combat leadership and how they apply to business and life? Try our Online Academy: https://combatreadyacademy.ee