View full transcript.

Join us as Cmdr. Alanna Youngblood sits down with retired Cmdr. Bobby Jones, a distinguished naval officer, mentor, and longtime friend, for the first installment of a two-part conversation exploring leadership, resilience, and service. From graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in the aftermath of 9/11 to commanding forces around the world, Bobby reflects on the experiences that shaped both his career and his character. 

Throughout the episode, Bobby shares candid stories about learning discipline through adversity, graduating as the "class anchor" at Annapolis, and discovering that true leadership is built on competence, humility, and emotional endurance rather than titles alone. He recounts the profound impact of serving as a United Nations peacekeeper in post-civil war Liberia, where empathy and adaptability became just as important as tactical expertise. 

The conversation also explores the realities of military leadership, including the personal sacrifices of command, the psychological burden of caring for hundreds of Sailors, and the importance of finding authenticity within institutions built on tradition. Bobby speaks openly about challenging established systems, navigating leadership as a Black naval officer, and the professional risks — and rewards — of speaking truth to power. He closes by reflecting on how the Navy helped define not only his career, but the purpose he continues to pursue long after retirement.