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Most people think the Marine Corps is looking for perfect recruits. Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Carlos A. Ruiz says that's never been the mission. The goal isn't perfection. It's finding people willing to learn, grow, and earn the title of United States Marine. During his conversation with host Fran Racioppi, SMMC Ruiz explains why the Marine Corps is moving beyond a ""zero defect"" mentality without lowering its standards. Accountability remains non-negotiable, but great leaders know the difference between a mistake and a pattern. Rather than writing Marines off after every setback, the Corps is investing in mentorship, disciplined leadership, and individualized development to help young Marines reach their full potential. Ruiz also discusses how modern recruiting tools help leaders better understand each recruit's background, strengths, and potential before they ever step onto the yellow footprints. For Ruiz, developing Marines has always been about more than enforcing standards. It's about building resilient warfighters who learn from failure, embrace accountability, and continue improving throughout their careers. The Marine Corps isn't in the business of finding flawless people. It's in the business of developing ordinary Americans into extraordinary Marines. Watch, listen, or read our conversation with Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Carlos A. Ruiz. Episode 202: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVVy15qzQrU This post is brought to you by OneBrief; enabling military leaders to make innovative, informed and deliberate decisions faster than ever before. #MarineCorps #USMC #Leadership #Military #Warfighter