August Cole

Join Major General Peter Huntley, commander of Marine Forces Special Operations Command, and August Cole, author and futurist, as they delve into the future of warfare. They discuss how Marine Raiders will adapt to the challenges of proxy terrorism and AI-enabled surveillance. The conversation highlights the balance between advanced technology and essential human skills like trust and leadership. Listeners will also hear an immersive excerpt from Cole's narrative, showcasing the complexities Raiders may face in 2040.

General Bryan P. Fenton, Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, and Command Sergeant Major Shane Shorter discuss the evolution and future of Special Operations Forces. They highlight how storytelling enhances military education and strategic planning. The guests delve into the impact of emerging technologies, including cyber and space, on future special operations. Additionally, they explore historical shifts in SOF from World War II to present-day conflicts and the necessity for adaptability in an ever-changing geopolitical landscape.

Rear Admiral Mark Schaefer, leading Special Operations Command South, delves into strategic nuances in South America, emphasizing partnership operations and adapting to regional threats. August Cole, a futurist and author, explores future warfare through his short story, 'Special Delivery,' highlighting the significance of sabotage in deterring conflict. Together, they discuss the evolution of sabotage tactics, the vital role of emerging technologies, and the importance of human adaptability in strategic operations, while stressing the need to understand adversary perception to mitigate escalation risks.

Major General Jeff VanAntwerp, the Commander of Special Operations Command–Pacific, and futurist August Cole dive into the challenges of future warfare. They discuss Cole’s short story, envisioning U.S. Special Operations advising a new Thai commando unit against Chinese-backed forces. The conversation highlights the critical role of technology like AI and robotics, while emphasizing that trust and adaptability are timeless values in special operations. They also explore the importance of guiding partners remotely and the need for innovative problem-solving skills.

Joined by August Cole, an author known for exploring future conflict through fiction, and David Gioe, a professor specializing in intelligence and international security, the discussion delves into the tumultuous events of 2024. They analyze the impact of disinformation on public perception and advocate for the role of popular culture in fostering critical thinking. The guests also navigate the tricky balance between fiction and reality in spy narratives, while reflecting on the enduring influence of World War II on contemporary storytelling.