Chris Maier, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations, and Colonel Patrick Nelson, Commander of the 7th Special Forces Group, delve into the evolving role of Special Operations Forces in modern conflict. They highlight the transition from counterinsurgency to large-scale combat operations, emphasizing the need for strategic insights and human skills. The discussion also touches on the importance of building trust with local forces, navigating permissions, and the need for collaboration to enhance SOF effectiveness in complex environments.