James Sladden is a historian and conflict researcher, currently a PhD candidate at Cambridge, while Ben Connable is an expert in modern ground combat and an adjunct professor at Georgetown. They dive deep into the pivotal Battle of Irpin, revealing the three moments when Russian forces almost secured victory. They highlight the vital contributions of Ukrainian volunteers and small unit leaders, the intense artillery clashes, and the significant challenges in conducting on-ground conflict research. Their insights emphasize the importance of evolving narratives and firsthand accounts in military history.

Ben Connable, a retired Marine and adjunct professor at Georgetown, discusses the nuances of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, supported by insights from his forthcoming book on ground combat. He challenges conventional military narratives and highlights the psychological effects of nationalism on both sides. The conversation also critiques the fixation on the 'superhuman soldier' narrative and examines military procurement's clash with real combat needs. Connable offers a deep dive into Russian resilience and the historical context shaping current warfare strategies.