Nov 19, 2025

In this special Thanksgiving episode of The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, host Billy Duren welcomes Dr. Endel Lee, a Marine Corps veteran and retired Navy chaplain, to discuss leading with gratitude, even in the face of life's challenges. Endel Lee shares powerful stories from his time serving in combat and surviving Hurricane Katrina, explaining how those experiences helped him focus on what truly matters: people and faith.

They discuss the idea that leadership is about influencing with compassion and conviction, not just authority. Endel Lee offers practical advice, like counting your blessings even in adversity and reframing challenges as opportunities for growth. He also emphasizes the importance of listening and asking great questions to build strong teams.

This episode reminds us that leadership isn't just a position; it's a mindset rooted in gratitude, empathy, and a commitment to serving others. Whether you're a seasoned executive or just starting your leadership journey, these real-world lessons will help you lead with a grateful heart.

3 Key Listener Takeaways

1. Gratitude as a Leadership Posture, Not Just an Event

Endel Lee and Billy Duren emphasize that true gratitude isn't just reserved for holidays like Thanksgiving; it's an ongoing posture and mindset. Leaders who cultivate a daily attitude of thankfulness are better equipped to handle challenges and inspire those around them.

2. The Power of Perspective and Reframing Challenges

Endel Lee shares how both military and life crises can force us to reconsider what really matters. By "expanding the box" (our worldview) and searching for blessings even in adversity, leaders, and anyone, can foster resilience, adaptability, and personal growth.

3. Leadership Through Influence and Empathy, Not Authority Alone

Throughout the episode, Endel Lee discusses transitioning from an authoritarian to an influencer mindset, stressing that successful leaders are those who listen, show empathy, and compel others to follow because they want to—not because they have to. Gratitude and humility are central to this approach.

Show Overview

00:00 Dr. Lee: Veteran & Chaplain

05:04 Leadership, Values, and Life's Reality

07:44 Navigating Trauma with Understanding

11:36 Reframe and Count Blessings

15:00 Iraq, Katrina, and Starting Over

19:58 Finding Peace During Chaos

23:36 Djibouti Desk Alignment Conflict

25:49 Letting Trust Take Priority

27:34 Buffalo Bonding in Crisis

31:59 Leadership: Influence Over Authority

35:01 Faith, Leadership, and Marine Corps

38:01 Superpower: Lifelong Leadership Impact

42:24 Listening, Questions, Gratitude, Faith

44:13 Repurposed, Not Retired