Thomas Shugart, a former US Navy submarine warfare officer, shares insightful perspectives on the intricacies of U.S. nuclear submarines and great power competition. He discusses the technological advancements and operational challenges submarines face, particularly in response to Chinese military developments. Shugart also recounts his journey from Texas to the Navy, highlighting life aboard submarines, the importance of sleep patterns for crew efficiency, and the strategic significance of China's ambitions regarding Taiwan. The episode offers a fascinating look at underwater military operations.

In a deep dive on U.S. naval shipbuilding, guests include John Konrad, CEO of GCaptain and former Coast Guard captain; Emma Salisbury, naval history expert; Matthew Funaiole, China Power Project scholar; and Thomas Shugart, former Navy officer. They dissect the Navy’s operational challenges, tracing the decline in U.S. shipbuilding since WWII, the pitfalls of bureaucracy, and the urgent need for reforms. The contrast with China's military integration strategy highlights risks for U.S. security, underscoring the critical need for renewed investment in naval capabilities.

Experts Evan Medeiros, Thomas Shugart, and Emily Weinstein discuss the current state of U.S.-Chinese relations, the impact of Taiwan's elections, and the potential for conflict. They explore lessons China may learn from the invasion of Ukraine, analyze the military angle in the Russian election, and discuss efforts to curb China's semiconductor industry. The upcoming U.S. election's impact on the relationship is also considered.