Squaring the Circle Professionals Talk Logistics with Steve Leonard
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Aug 24, 2025 Steve Leonard, a Professor at the University of Kansas and a retired Army strategist, dives into the art of strategic thinking and the integral role of humor in military culture, using cartoons to connect and educate. He discusses the evolution of military doctrine and the hidden power of logistics in high-stakes situations. Leonard reflects on the dangers of politicization in the armed forces, emphasizing leadership's legacy and the importance of empowering others. His insights combine military history with personal anecdotes, revealing the complexity and relevance of logistics today.
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Three-Part Strategy Framework
- A complete strategy has three parts: a clear vision, an understood path (ways), and a compelling value proposition (so what?).
- If any piece is missing you have big ideas, not strategy, and execution will stall.
Train To Think Systems, Then Communicate
- Learn to think in complex systems rather than linear cause-effect chains to become a strategist.
- Communicate strategic ideas clearly so people who don't think like you can understand and act on them.
Cartoon Origin Story
- Steve began drawing cartoons at CGSC and used them to poke fun at military oddities and doctrine work.
- His comics grew widely read, even prompting senior leaders to joke about not ending up in a cartoon.
