Ep. 19: Simple Guiding Truth on a Historic Path

Summary: On this episode of Passing the Torch, Host Martin Foster introduces someone who understands deeply that we ignore history at our peril - Matt Ziemann, which is why the conversation in this episode of Passing the Torch is so robust. A love of history cultivated early in his life has been a guiding light throughout a remarkable career. The discussion touches on the many ways in which history gives context and how understanding decision-making from an experiential point of view can completely change the way we judge others. Enjoy this fun conversation, which includes everything from interesting fun facts about the Battle of Britain to what combo of historical figures would make for the best dinner party. You’ll also find out what popular adventure character (Hint: Indy, for short) might make the best model on which to base Matt’s life story!

Key Takeaways:

The big picture: Belief that history is important to good leadership and decision-making
Person in history who was inspiring
Sharing a simple, guiding truth: We can choose to learn from our own mistakes or learn from what others can teach us through experiences they’ve already had.
History provides a template for the many ways in which human decision-making and motivation intersect.
A project interviewing legendary pilots as a kid gave Matt a window into the humanity and tactical brilliance behind the airmen he idolized.
Realizing that everyone has a story set Matt on the path uncovering the real story behind notable aviation figures, starting with Robin Olds, a Vietnam era “triple ace” fighter pilot who agreed to be interviewed as did many others.
Thoughts about two historical figures whose critical decisions were made based on a depth of knowledge about mistakes made in the past: Dwight D. Eisenhower and Robin Olds. Both were committed historians with a tremendous grasp of military campaigns through the ages.
If Matt could time travel back to witness any moment in all of history he would be most interested to witness the crucifixion of Jesus; in terms of air power history, he would most like to revisit the Battle of Britain.
Significance of the Battle of Britain and how it’s relevant to modern air campaigns.
Three dinner guests from all of history:
- Jesus Christ
- Dwight D. Eisenhower
- Robin Olds
A deeper dive into exactly why learning about past failures is so important to progressing with wisdom through current events.
Hindsight is 20/20 so you can’t judge people for making choices based on their limited experience and information they had at the time. Pearl Harbor is an example of how easy it is to misinterpret what’s on the horizon.
Something Not Everyone Knows: Matt is a falconer who has worked and hunted with hawks for many years and, through watching them trap food, he has seen moves that would rival an F22.
Who plays the title role in the film of Matt’s life? His nickname “Indy” gives the first clue. It would have to be someone like Indiana Jones, an adventurer who likes to travel, loves history and doesn’t mind extricating himself from predicaments in faraway places. (Perhaps action star Jason Statham or Daniel Craig could play the role?)
There’s a billboard on the highway, broadcasting Matt’s leadership message for the world to see. How does it read? Treat people like humans. Whether you’re in command or just living daily life, always try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes.

Key Quotes:

“A people without knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.” (Quote from Marcus Garvey)

“Looking back at the past isn’t always going to be a carbon copy for what’s going to happen in the future, but it can give you some ideas of how things might play out.”

“People are people and human nature is human nature. We may have different educational and life experiences that shape our world view and how we do things, but when it comes to the elements of decision-making we are all people.”

“When you are actually in the physical locations, history takes on such a different context and importance … When you plant yourself in those environments, you feel history around you.”

“When you’re judging people’s decisions and mistakes, it’s also important to look at what information they had and why they made those decisions. Not just the tactical information they had in the moment, but also experiential background that might have predisposed them.”

“Hawks (can) make turns that rival an F22, defying what I think pf as the laws of physics in how they can turn and move in pursuit of their prey. It’s fascinating and goes back to my love of anything that flies!”

“You can be quick to judge people … but if you dig a little deeper into the background of what happened you find that circumstances are a little different and may give you a different perspective on things.”

Additional Resources:

Click here to learn more about Col. Robin Olds.

You can learn “8 Things You Need to Know” about the Battle of Britain here.