Episode 55

General Stan McChrystal on the Importance of Your Character

On this episode of The One Big Thing, I had the honor of sitting down with General Stanley McChrystal. You may know him as one of the most respected military leaders of our time, but in our conversation, we focused less on medals and missions and more on the thing that truly defines a life: character.

We talked about what it means to be a father, a grandfather, and a human being trying to live out your values in a complicated world. Stan shares how character isn't something we inherit—it's something we choose. And we don't just choose it once—we choose it daily, especially in the hard moments when no one else is watching.

We also got into:

  • Why your example matters more than your achievements
  • How to hold fast to who you are—even when the world feels loud, divided, and chaotic
  • What Stan learned from leading soldiers in war and grandkids in peacetime
  • How his book On Character: Choices That Define a Life came to be (and why it might help you rethink your own convictions)

Whether you're a parent, a leader, or someone simply trying to do the next right thing, I think this episode will meet you right where you are. This conversation reminded me that we all have a say in the kind of person we become—and that it’s never too late to start making better choices.

🧠 Your one big thing today? Character isn’t what you say—it’s who you are when no one’s looking. And you own that.

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About Stanley McChrystal

Co-Founder of McChrystal Group

Former Commander of U.S. and International Forces in Afghanistan Former Leader of Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC)

Author of My Share of the Task: A Memoir, Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World, Leaders: Myth and Reality, Risk: A User’s Guide, and Character: Choices that Define a Life.

A one-of-a-kind leader with a new perspective on collaboration and teamwork, General Stan McChrystal is known for helping organizations tap into the potential of their people to better compete in a complex and interconnected world.

Following thirty-four years of service in the U.S. Army—including as commander of U.S. and International Security Assistance Forces (ISAF) Afghanistan and commander of the nation’s premier counter-terrorism force— General McChrystal delivers his unique blend of on-theground experience with decades of leadership to provide practical insight and wisdom to help organizations transform and succeed in challenging, dynamic environments.

General McChrystal now leads the McChrystal Group as its founder and CEO, which helps organizations of all types transform how their people, processes, and technology work together to unlock greater speed and adaptability. As the author of several best-selling books, General McChrystal latest examines the character of leaders and what makes someone who they are and, importantly, how they will be remembered.

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The One Big Thing is produced by NQR Media. NQR also produces the award-winning Ditch the Suits Podcast, of which I am a co-host. For more, visit https://www.nqrmedia.com/

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Steve Campbell

Hey there — I’m Steve Campbell. I’m a husband, dad to four amazing kids, follower of Jesus, and someone who wakes up every day wanting to help people live with more clarity, courage, and purpose.

Life has taught me that faith isn’t just something you talk about — it’s something you live, wrestle with, and anchor everything to. My relationship with Jesus shapes how I love my family, how I lead, how I speak, and how I show up for others. Every podcast, conversation, and connection I make starts there — from a place of grace, humility, and hope.

My Heart Behind The One Big Thing
I started The One Big Thing podcast because I believe each of us is created on purpose and for a purpose. We all carry something unique that can make a difference — not someday, but right now. Through the stories, lessons, and conversations on the podcast, my prayer is that you’ll discover the spark God placed in you and feel encouraged to take your next faithful step.

I don’t have all the answers — but I’ve learned that when you stay close to Jesus, stay curious, and keep moving forward, amazing things can unfold.

Beyond the Mic
At home, I’m just “Dad.” My wife and our four kids are my greatest joy and daily reminder of what really matters. They keep me grounded, laughing, and trusting God in the middle of the chaos and beauty of everyday life.

I’m passionate about encouraging others — whether through a podcast episode, a post, or a conversation over coffee. I believe that hope is contagious and that small, honest moments can change lives.

What You’ll Find Here
This space is about real stories, faith filled encouragement, and practical wisdom for life and leadership. My hope is that you don’t just listen — you feel seen, challenged, and reminded that you’re not alone.

If you’ve landed here, maybe it’s not by accident. Maybe God’s nudging you toward your next “one big thing.” I’m glad you’re here — let’s walk it out together.