Chad Pillai, a U.S. Army strategist and author, dives into the intricacies of combatant command campaign planning. He shares firsthand experiences transitioning from theory to practical strategy, revealing the dynamic roles within Operational Planning Teams. Pillai discusses the historical significance of the Middle East, the impact of great power competition with Russia and China, and the integration of military and diplomatic strategies. He also emphasizes essential skills for future military strategists, particularly the importance of reading and writing in building effective communication.