We All Go Down, We All Come Back: Submarine Leadership Lessons - Scot Russell | Ep. #471

What drives someone to continue serving long after their military career ends? In this episode, Cam and Otis sit down with Scot Russell, a US Navy veteran who served as a Submarine Sonar Technician aboard the USS Norfolk (SSN-714) from 1990-1996, and who now dedicates his time to Heroes on the Water, an organization that helps veterans and first responders heal through kayak fishing.

"We weren't afraid of anything down there. We all go down, we all come back," Scot explains about submarine culture. That mindset of charging toward the fire—whether it's a literal fire on a submarine or a problem in the business world—has shaped his entire career. From his time listening for threats in the depths of the ocean to his current work in IT leadership, Scot demonstrates how the technical skills and team-focused mentality from submarine service translate directly into civilian success.

What makes this conversation particularly compelling is Scot's candid discussion about the power of listening—both literally as a sonar technician and figuratively in understanding people's needs. He shares how the detailed focus required on a submarine, where one mistake could mean disaster for everyone, taught him to connect with people where they are rather than imposing solutions. Whether discussing the unique title of "Chief of the Boat" (COB), explaining why submariners weren't afraid of death because they had each other, or describing how Heroes on the Water creates community for veterans struggling with isolation, Scot's story illustrates the importance of continuing to serve.

Whether you're a veteran transitioning to civilian work, a leader interested in building tight-knit teams, or someone looking to make a difference in the veteran community, Scot's journey from submarine service to IT leadership to veteran advocacy provides valuable lessons about translating military experience, the power of community, and finding purpose through service.

More About Scot:
Scot is a US Navy Veteran who served as a Submarine Sonar Technician from 1990 to 1996. He was attached to the USS Norfolk (SSN-714) fast attack submarine, where he earned his Submarine Warfare (SS). He served in the Gulf War and in support of NATO in other areas. He received a Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Navy Arctic Service, and NATO Medal. He comes from a long line of Veterans, his Father is a Vietnam Veteran, and his Grandfather served in the Korean War and WW2.


Chapter Times and Titles:

Introduction: The Submariner and Veteran Advocate [00:00 - 05:00]

Welcome and meet Scot Russell
US Navy Submarine Sonar Technician, USS Norfolk (SSN-714)
Setting up the conversation about submarine service and Heroes on the Water
The family legacy of military service

"We All Go Down, We All Come Back" [05:00 - 10:30]
Submarine culture and the fearlessness it creates
Charging toward the fire: solving problems, not documenting them
Why submariners do it for each other, not fear of death
The confidence that comes from being shoulder to shoulder

Life as a Sonar Technician [10:30 - 18:00]
What a Submarine Sonar Technician actually does
Listening for what's around you in the depths
The technical skills and detailed focus required
Gulf War service and NATO operations
Earning the Submarine Warfare (SS) qualification

"Chief of the Boat": The Ultimate Leadership Role [18:00 - 24:00]
Understanding submarine hierarchy and titles
COB: Chief of the Boat—the head enlisted leader
"If the COB's looking for you, that ain't a good thing."
Why detailed focus matters when mistakes can be fatal
The importance of every person doing their job right

Translating Submarine Skills to the IT World [24:00 - 32:00]
How listening skills transfer from sonar to business