The nun, the sailor, and the suggestion box: Paul X Rinn at TEDxGrandRapids

Summary

This compelling story follows Paul Rin's journey from a young student doubted for his intelligence to a determined and successful leader in the U.S. Navy. Despite early challenges and a memorable encounter with a teacher who doubted his potential, Rin persists with hard work, determination, and teamwork. His leadership transforms a crew, including a troubled sailor, Michael Tilley, whose eventual redemption proves that even those who seem unlikely can rise to greatness. Through perseverance, Tilley saves the ship, embodying the power of second chances and the importance of believing in others. It's a testament to the impact of leadership and support in helping individuals succeed.

Takeaways

• 😀 The importance of determination and persistence: Despite not being considered 'too smart' in school, the speaker overcame challenges through hard work and perseverance.
• 😀 The value of working well with others: Building strong relationships and getting along with teammates was crucial to the speaker's success.
• 😀 Leadership by example: The speaker emphasizes the significance of leading with integrity, trust, and determination, especially in life-threatening situations.
• 😀 Second chances matter: Even those who make mistakes, like Michael Tilley, can find success if given guidance and support.
• 😀 Personal growth is possible: Michael Tilley, once a problematic sailor, eventually transforms into a hero who saves the ship through dedication and responsibility.
• 😀 The power of mentorship: The speaker believed in Tilley when others doubted him, helping him unlock his potential.
• 😀 Success requires belief in others: The speaker's leadership approach was centered on believing in the potential of each individual, no matter their past.
• 😀 Acknowledging growth: Tilley, who initially struggled, gradually became a highly effective member of the crew, proving the importance of second chances.
• 😀 Trusting people in critical situations: In a minefield crisis, Tilley performed selflessly and courageously, showing that people can rise to the occasion when they are empowered.
• 😀 The lasting impact of encouragement: A simple phrase of belief in Tilley led him to excel, demonstrating how encouragement can change lives.
• 😀 Leadership can unlock potential: By supporting and motivating those who seem unlikely to succeed, leaders can help individuals achieve greatness.

Q & A

What did Sister Bertrand say to the speaker when he was 12 years old?

Sister Bertrand told the speaker, 'Paul, Rin you have impeccable manners, it's a shame you're not too smart.'

What strategy did the speaker adopt to overcome challenges in school and life?

The speaker decided to be determined, persistent, work harder than everyone else, and connect with others to get ahead.

What was the outcome of the speaker’s leadership when he joined the Navy?

The speaker’s leadership led to him becoming the youngest commanding officer of the Navy's newest ship, the USS Samuel B. Roberts, and achieving great success with his crew.

What was Michael Tilley’s initial issue when he joined the USS Samuel B. Roberts?

Michael Tilley had a run-in with the authorities at a bar for presenting false identification and getting into trouble, leading to him being summoned to Captain’s Mast.

What was the key lesson the speaker wanted to teach his crew aboard the USS Samuel B. Roberts?

The speaker wanted his crew to embody determination, persistence, hard work, and teamwork, believing that together they would be the best.

What major event occurred while the USS Samuel B. Roberts was in the Persian Gulf?

While in the Persian Gulf, the USS Samuel B. Roberts engaged in countering Iranian and Iraqi threats to US tankers, ensuring their protection in dangerous waters.

How did Michael Tilley eventually prove his worth to the Navy?

Despite early struggles, Michael Tilley turned around and showed exceptional performance, eventually saving the ship by getting its diesel engine running after a mine explosion.

What happened during the mine explosion in the Persian Gulf?

The ship was struck by a mine, causing massive damage, but Michael Tilley’s actions helped restore power to the ship and prevented further catastrophe.

How did Tilley’s actions help save the ship during the mine incident?

Tilley restored power by starting a malfunctioning diesel engine in a very dangerous way, ensuring the ship had enough power to fight the fires and keep functioning.

What was Tilley’s behavior like after his earlier mistakes, and how did the captain respond?

After his mistakes, Tilley showed a desire to improve and prove himself, which the captain acknowledged by not giving up on him and encouraging his development.