Your guide to becoming a worthy leader, based on true stories from a fulfilling military career
From the high seas to high commands in Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan, Sea Dog: A Seafaring Captain's Lessons in Leadership tells the tale of Charles L. Stuppard and his journey from growing up surrounded by poverty and violence to becoming a Navy Captain in charge of the US Navy's most technologically sophisticated warship. In this book, Stuppard details exactly how he managed to not only become a great leader, but one who acts with character, empathy, and honor, not because of inherent advantages in his life, but rather through learning and applying hard lessons at every point in his fulfilling career.
Drawing on captivating stories from intense special training and beyond, this book covers key leadership concepts such as:
- Learning to focus on the right things so that the rest of your team will follow your lead
- Defining your success as a leader by what people say about you after you leave your organization
- Using your power to encourage empathy and generosity in yourself and others
Captivating, inspiring, and practical, Sea Dog: A Seafaring Captain's Lessons in Leadership is an essential read for aspiring and current leaders across organizations and industries who seek to lead with confidence, charisma, and compassion.
Praise for SEA DOG
"Charles Stuppard is a prime example of a servant leader. He served his country, and inspires all those lucky enough to know him. Leadership starts with understanding who you are and understanding that in a team you cannot achieve anything alone. Trust is crucial for success; trusting your team members and proving their trust. And there are few people I trust more than my true friend Charles."
-Rob Bauer, Admiral, Royal Netherlands Navy; Chair, NATO Military Committee (2021-2025)
"Throughout two decades at the Naval War College, Charles Stuppard stood out among thousands of officers for his exceptional leadership gifts. This book, collecting his wisdom over the years, is worth close attention by those aspiring to future leadership in our society."
-Alberto R. Coll, former Naval War College Dean and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense
"Charles' story serves as a compelling guide to achieving greatness through servant leadership. We share the resilience of our Haitian American heritage and a Cornell University education, but most importantly, a shared passion for inspiring bold, inclusive, and visionary leadership."
-Reggie Fils-Aimé, bestselling author of Disrupting the Game: From the Bronx to the Top of Nintendo
"Charles invests in relationships. He communicates authentically. He leads by example where people feel supported, respected and motivated to perform at their best. Leadership is a dynamic process that evolves with experience, reflection, and a willingness to adapt. Charles personifies that ethos of leadership and I am proudof his dedication and service and honored to call him my brother and friend."
-Saleem Miyan, former president, Bambu Global & Canopy Defense
"It was a pleasure and an honor to read Sea Dog. I integrated several of its lessons into my Introduction to Business class at a local university. I shared this book with my colleague, who teaches Leadership in an Education Doctorate Program. Sea Dog teaches about leadership from an experiential standpoint, beyond a textbook defined leadership style."
-Lori Zaher, Professor of Business and Accounting, Assistant Editor
