Skip to content
Sign in
Artwork for Remo Podcast
BusinessManagement

Remo Podcast

Remo Ojaste

9 Years in the Estonian Defence Forces. 8 Years served as SOF Operator. Sold Tanks in the Middle East.
Founder. CEO. Leadership Instructor.

Leadership Strategies. Tactics from War. Business and Life.

Play
Open in
  • 20 episodes
  • Avg 2 hr
  • English

Episodes 20

NewestOldestLongest
All20Unplayed20In progress0Played0
  • February 28 · 3 hr 12 min

    What British Royal Marines didn't learn from Baltic Battalion with Chris Shepard and Remo Ojaste

    Want to LEAD AND WIN https://combatready.eu/ Subscribe and join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast In this episode, Remo and Chris dive into the untold story of the Baltic Battalion’s early days and what it really took to build a modern fighting force from the ruins of the Soviet Union. Chris shares raw, firsthand experiences from training Estonian soldiers in Paldiski, facing broken infrastructure, political tension, and daily chaos — yet turning it into a success. From leadership lessons and supervision under pressure to cultural encounters and unexpected diplomacy, this conversation reveals how professionalism, resilience, and belief in standards helped shape the foundation of today’s Baltic defense forces. A powerful story of rebuilding, grit, and transformation.

  • Dec 30, 2025 · 2 hr 51 min

    Chris Sheppard: A Modern Special Operations Case Study | Remo with Chris part X

    Want to LEAD AND WIN https://combatready.eu/ Subscribe and join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast In this episode, Remo Ojaste and Chris Sheppard examine the Baltic Battalion as a modern special operations case study, focusing on methods, leadership, and long-term impact rather than secrecy or hero narratives.The conversation explores how an indirect, low-visibility approach — centered on training, trust, and local ownership — produced lasting strategic effects and helped shape the foundations of Estonia’s defence capability.This episode reflects on why the operation succeeded, how success became visible only years later, and why this model closely resembles how modern special operations should be trained today.

  • S1 · E19
    Jun 7, 2025 · 2 hr 13 min

    The True Cost of Caring About Your Team | Remo with Chris part IX

    In this episode, Chris dives deep into the often-overlooked emotional and cultural barriers to effective military training. Set against the backdrop of his early work with Estonian soldiers, he shares how initial efforts were met with resistance, mistrust, and even quiet hostility. The core issue? Feedback was taken as personal criticism, not professional development. Chris explores the concept of “breaking the horse”—earning trust slowly, proving his knowledge through action, and patiently demonstrating that he wasn’t there to control, but to help.The conversation highlights key differences between being an instructor and being a leader, especially in environments where rank is misunderstood as authority to teach. Chris also reflects on what it means to truly care: to take personal ownership of your role, your impact, and the growth of those you lead. He didn’t just train soldiers; he invested in them, even when the reward was ridicule. This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership is not granted—it’s earned. And sometimes, the most effective way to change minds isn’t by demanding respect, but by quietly demonstrating value and letting results speak for themselves. A must-listen for anyone navigating complex group dynamics, leadership, or personal growth. Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E19
    Jun 6, 2025 · 1 hr 32 min

    Can You Really Teach Leadership in Just 9 Months? Remo Podcast with Chris Sheppard part VII

    What happens when you take a group of conscripts, wipe the slate clean, and have just nine months to turn them into effective soldiers—and potential leaders? In this episode, Remo and Chris dive deep into military training, exploring the challenges of teaching leadership, confronting egos, and creating real-world scenarios where rank doesn’t matter, but capability does. From humorous misunderstandings with foreign instructors to hard-earned lessons about self-awareness and team dynamics, this conversation sheds light on what truly works (and what doesn’t) in developing leaders from scratch. Whether you’re in the military, a leadership role, or just curious how chaos gets turned into order, this episode is packed with raw insight, personal stories, and tactical philosophy that extends far beyond the battlefield. Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E18
    May 28, 2025 · 1 hr 44 min

    Training is the best type of welfare you can provide to your men! Remo with Chris part VIII

    In this episode, former Royal Marine Christopher Sheppard joins Remo Ojaste to unpack what it really takes to train soldiers, lead under pressure, and transform post-Soviet mindsets into modern military excellence.From drunken construction crews in 90s Latvia to high-stakes ambush training and the brutal truth about moral courage, this conversation is raw, real, and packed with hard-earned lessons.Whether you're in the military, leading a team, or building a stronger mindset—this episode will challenge you to reflect, train harder, and lead better.Topics Covered:* Breaking the Soviet “normalis” mindset* Why moral courage matters more than physical strength* Training progression: explain, demonstrate, imitate, progress* Surprise, speed, and violence of action in tactics* How to build a “can-do” culture* Real-life leadership under fire* Why debriefing is where real learning happens“Every day you don’t give 100%, your enemy is happy.” Drop a comment below: What’s your biggest takeaway from this conversation?#Leadership #MilitaryTraining #CombatReady #MoralCourage #RemoPodcast #ExtremeOwnership #EstoniaJoin the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E17
    Apr 5, 2025 · 2 hr 31 min

    Can You Train People to Think? Remo Podcast with Chris Sheppard

    This episode dives into a powerful moment where training failed the people it was meant to protect. It questions the difference between drilling procedures and truly preparing someone for combat—or any high-stakes environment. The story explores how bad habits get baked into systems, how convenience replaces competence, and why it takes courage to reteach when everything’s on the line. It’s a sharp look at the gap between knowing something and owning it. Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E15
    Mar 29, 2025 · 2 hr 20 min

    From Videogames to Special Ops to Falcon Claw. How Estonia forges warriors? Allar Hoppe

    What does it really mean to grow up, especially in a world that often lacks structure? In this deep and reflective episode, Remo and Allar talk about the role military service played in shaping them—not just as soldiers, but as men. They reflect on childhoods filled with mischief, absent parenting, and early video game obsessions, and how that chaos eventually gave way to discipline through conscription and military life. Through brutal training, elite selection processes, and years of service, both men learned hard lessons about self-discipline, teamwork, and the necessity of failure. They also discuss how mentorship, accountability, and humility became crucial to their personal growth. Whether you’re struggling to find direction or seeking to build mental toughness, this episode offers valuable insights on becoming your best self through adversity.Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E13
    Mar 22, 2025 · 2 hr 28 min

    How to become elite instructor, coach, mentor or a leader? British Royal Marine Commando Way

    Teaching isn’t just explaining — it's building something from the ground up. Remo and Chris break down what makes an effective instructor by examining military pedagogy: explanation, demonstration, imitation, and progressive practice. They explore how proper instruction is built on a backbone of structure, like weapon drills, and then layered with critical thinking, real-time adaptation, and deep subject understanding. The episode discusses how many instructors fail because they skip steps, don’t know the material, or only repeat theory without practice. Whether in the military, business, or civilian training, this episode offers timeless insights into how we learn — and why the way we’re taught matters as much as what we’re taught.Quotes from the Episode“A bad demonstration will be copied more than your best explanation.” — Chris→ Highlights the critical importance of leading by example.“You’re not an instructor just because you’ve heard the theory — you become one when you’ve practiced, demonstrated, and earned the right to speak.” — Remo→ Sums up the true path to credibility as a leader or teacher.“Teaching isn’t just explaining — it’s building something from the ground up.” — Chris→ Defines real instruction at its core.“Freedom is the price of Discipline. If you want more freedom — more time, more control, more confidence — be more disciplined.” — Remo→ Powerful principle that applies to every area of life.“Everything you do reflects upon the people you train.” — Chris→ The essence of responsibility and ownership in leadership.Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E14
    Mar 15, 2025 · 2 hr 58 min

    From Finnish Special Forces to CEO: Jan Knutti’s Evolution | Remo Podcast #012

    In this episode, we engage with Jan Knutti — a Finnish entrepreneur, former Navy Special Forces (SOF) operator, TV personality, and author. Jan shares his transformative journey from over two decades in the Finnish military and Border Guard to becoming the CEO of Polar Apex Oy, a company at the forefront of military and tactical gear innovation. We delve into his experiences in special operations, the challenges of leadership under pressure, and how his military background informs his approach to business and product development. Join us for an insightful discussion on resilience, innovation, and transitioning from military service to entrepreneurial leadership.📌 Topics Covered:Life and Lessons from Finnish Navy Special ForcesLeadership Under Duress: Military and Business PerspectivesThe Genesis and Vision of Polar Apex OyInnovations in Tactical Gear: Bridging Experience with TechnologyTransitioning Skills from Special Operations to Corporate Leadership🔥 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more engaging content!🔔 Turn on notifications to stay updated with our latest episodes.Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E13
    Mar 8, 2025 · 2 hr 23 min

    The Truth About Leadership: What the Military Teaches Us. Remo Podcast

    Episode 11 Part 3 with Chris Sheppard In this episode, Remo and Chris dive into the challenges of leadership in the military, discussing how frontline soldiers receive instant feedback while higher-ranking officers often struggle to recognize mistakes. They explore how ego and hierarchy can block valuable lessons and how the best leaders remain open to change. The conversation also touches on the psychological effects of war, the importance of adapting training methods, and how leadership skills translate to civilian life and sports. Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E12
    Mar 1, 2025 · 3 hr 3 min

    What War looks like? Falkland War Veteran! Leadership dictates who Wins! Remo Podcast

    Episode 11 Part 2 with Chris SheppardWar isn’t just about fighting the enemy—sometimes, the biggest battle is against nature. Chris details the unforgiving conditions of the Falklands, from relentless cold to the struggle for food and shelter. He explains how proper training, fitness, and mental toughness can mean the difference between life and death in the field.Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E11
    Feb 22, 2025 · 2 hr 30 min

    First In, Last Out: The Marine Who Built an Army. Remo Podcast 011/1 with Christopher Alan Sheppard

    In 1994, with the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Baltic states faced a monumental challenge—building modern defense forces from the remnants of a rigid, Soviet-trained military. Enter Christopher Alan Sheppard, a Royal Marine Commando who was supposed to stay for just a few months but ended up shaping Estonia’s military for decades. From battlefield leadership to training warriors, Shepherd shares his journey of transformation, struggle, and lessons learned in war.Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E10
    Feb 16, 2025 · 54 min

    Remo Podcast 010 with Eerik Heldna, Donald Trump Part 2: Power, Provocation, and the Price of Change

    In this follow-up episode on Donald Trump, we examine his disruptive leadership style, its impact on global alliances, and the deeper questions of power, ethics, and strategy. Is provocation a necessary tool for shaking up the system, or does it erode fundamental democratic values? From historical lessons to military tactics and international law, we analyze how Trump's approach challenges traditional norms and forces a rethinking of diplomacy, governance, and leadership in uncertain times.Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E9
    Feb 7, 2025 · 1 hr 12 min

    Remo Podcast 009 with Eerik Heldna. Donald Trump: Strength, Strategy, or Chaos?

    In this episode, Remo Ojaste and Eerik Heldna dive into the impact of Donald Trump's leadership on global politics. From NATO and U.S.-Europe relations to Russia, China, and the shifting balance of power, they explore whether Trump's approach is calculated strategy or reckless disruption. How does his influence shape Estonia and the world? And what does it mean for the future of global alliances? Tune in for an in-depth discussion on power, respect, and political maneuvering in today's world. Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast

  • S1 · E9
    Feb 2, 2025 · 30 min

    000: Retired NATO Special Operations Operator, Selling Tanks, Playing Poker, CEO, New Hobby

    It is an experiment, a challenge, and a new hobby. I've gone through many phases in life: from military service in the Estonian Special Operations Forces to playing poker professionally, selling military equipment, and now running Combat Ready, a leadership consultancy based on Extreme Ownership principles. Why start a podcast? - To improve my English and speaking skills - To share my thoughts for my children and anyone who finds them useful - To explore topics like leadership, business, military experiences, and personal development - To have conversations with interesting people from different fields What to expect: - Solo episodes where I share experiences and lessons - Interviews with military personnel, entrepreneurs, and leaders - History discussions with Erik Heldur, a former law enforcement and intelligence professional - Educational content on leadership, strategy, and psychology - This podcast might be for you if you're interested in military stories, leadership, entrepreneurship, or self-improvement. New episodes every week. Have a question or topic suggestion? Contact me on Instagram @remopodcast Get some!

  • S1 · E8
    Jan 22, 2025 · 1 hr 52 min

    The Life and Legacy of Konstantin Pets. Remo Podcast 008 with Eerik Heldna

    Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast This discussion explores the life and leadership of Konstantin Päts, Estonia's first president, during its journey to independence. It highlights his role in the 1905 revolution, exile, declaration of independence, and nation-building amidst war. The conversation underscores his resilience, strategic thinking, and the complex legacy he left as both a revered leader and a controversial figure.

  • S1 · E7
    Jan 15, 2025 · 1 hr 14 min

    Remo Podcast 007 With Eerik Heldna, Former President of Estonia, Good or Bad, Intent has a smell

    Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast In this conversation, Remo and Eerik explore the complexities of leadership, intent, and morality. They discuss how understanding a person's intent is crucial in evaluating their actions, especially in controversial situations. The dialogue delves into the nuances of influence, the importance of humility in leadership, and the distinction between manipulation and genuine leadership. The conversation culminates in reflections on storytelling and legacy, emphasizing how narratives shape perceptions of leaders and their impact on society.

  • S1 · E6
    Jan 8, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min

    Remo Podcast 006 with Eerik Heldna, The Art of War: Winning Without Fighting

    Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast In this episode, Remo and Eerik discuss the historical context of Estonia's independence and the threats posed by the Soviet Union, particularly focusing on the coup attempt in December 1924. They explore the planning and execution of the coup, the immediate response from Estonian forces, and the lessons learned from this critical moment in history. The conversation also delves into the concept of survival mode, the importance of unity in times of crisis, and the current geopolitical threats facing Estonia and Europe today. They emphasize the need for adaptability in decision-making within the EU and NATO, the significance of unity among member states, and the necessity of strong leadership to inspire trust and resilience. The discussion also highlights the importance of learning from past mistakes to enhance national security and preparedness for future challenges, particularly in the face of hybrid threats.

  • S1 · E5
    Jan 1, 2025 · 1 hr 30 min

    Remo Podcast 005 WIth Eerik Heldna, The One Third Rule

    Join the conversation on Instagram: @remopodcast In this conversation, Remo Ojaste and Eerik Heldna explore the concept of the one third rule, which posits that personal growth requires a balance of good, neutral, and hard times. They discuss the implications of this rule on individual development, national resilience, and military training. The dialogue delves into the psychology of overachievers, the dangers of idolizing them, and the importance of maintaining a balance between hardship and enjoyment in life. The speakers emphasize that while hard times are necessary for growth, they must be managed carefully to avoid breaking individuals or teams. The discussion emphasizes the importance of alignment between effort and desired outcomes, the significance of enjoying the journey rather than fixating on end goals, and the necessity of finding meaning in struggles. Ultimately, they conclude that happiness stems from living according to one's values and embracing the journey of life.

Showing 1–20 of 20 episodes