This episode of Ideas that Impact: Inside West Point features Retired General Scott Miller, a West Point Class of 1983 graduate and West Point Combating Terrorism Center Class of 1987 Senior Fellow. General Miller discusses his nearly 40-year career, including key assignments and achievements. Topics covered include how sports prepared him for military success, the integration of technology and AI in modern warfare, the importance of continuous learning, and what makes great leaders. The conversation also touches on the future of warfare, the challenges of battlefield leadership, and advice for young officers.00:00 Introduction to Miller00:13 Miller's Military Journey00:50 Honors and Accolades01:01 Welcome Back to West Point01:28 Athletics and Military Preparation02:36 Leadership and Culture03:39 Memorable Moments and Reflections05:10 The Human and the Machine: Leadership on the Battlefield05:43 The AI Revolution in Military Strategy09:26 Data and Decision Making in Warfare11:51 Technology and Ethical Considerations14:52 Trust and Accountability in AI22:07 Historical Innovations and Integration24:30 Technological Innovations on the Battlefield24:42 Historical Resistance to Change in the Military25:29 Embracing New Warfare Technologies27:16 Insights from Military Leaders and Experts28:13 Future of Warfare: Predictions and Challenges29:50 Drone Warfare and Its Implications34:54 Leadership and Retention in the Military38:06 Integrating Technology in Military Training39:31 Continuous Learning and Personal Development42:19 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal InsightsResources Mentioned in the EpisodeThe Coming Wave by Mustafa Suleyman with Michael BhaskarThe Centurions by Jean LartéguyLoved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.Learn more: Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWPLearn more about the Combating Terrorism Center: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean X: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dean.usma Youtube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBECredits: Guest: General (Ret.) Scott Miller: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-miller-9275b92a/) Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual InformationProduction: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com) Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

Join us for an exclusive episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact, where the show’s executive producer, Major Renee Sanjuan, puts the show host, West Point Dean Brigadier General Shane Reeves, in the spotlight as the guest. In this unique conversation, Reeves reflects on the evolution of the podcast, the power of storytelling, and the invaluable role of character development in leadership. He shares standout moments from Season 2, previews the exciting lineup for Season 3, and discusses the critical connection between mentorship and military readiness. This episode offers an insider's perspective on how West Point continues to shape leaders of character for the modern battlefield. The episode is a must listen for those seeking reflective leadership insights.00:00 Introduction to the episode01:50 Thank Yous02:20 Character Development, Strong Teams, and the Warrior Ethos06:42 Cross-Cultural Competencies and Communication07:47 Mentorship and Development Themes from Season 209:16 Preparing for Uncertainty in Warfare11:16 Developing Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Leaders13:10 Identifying Human Skills of the Future14:30 Annual Theme: “Human and the Machine: Leadership on the Emerging Battlefield”15:50 Targeting Data for Military Purposes17:00 Space and Land Warfare18:25 Benefits of Fireside Chats20:08 Season 3 Preview23:40 Podcast Episode Topic Selection Strategy25:00 Episode Takeaways26:12 Rapid Fire QuestionsLoved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.Learn more:Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP Annual Theme: https://www.westpoint.edu/human-machineConnect with us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMAFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadeanX: https://www.twitter.com/deanusmaThreads: https://www.threads.net/@dean.usmaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/west-point-werx/YouTube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBECredits: Guest: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3) Host: Major Renee Sanjuan: (www.linkedin.com/in/renee-l-sanjuan-8651094a)Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information Division Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com) Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

Elon Musk, the visionary CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, dives into the future of warfare technology. He discusses the game-changing role of AI and drones on the battlefield, emphasizing the need for secure communication between humans and machines. Musk raises critical points about the alignment of AI with human values and the importance of fostering trust in military technology. He highlights the significance of competent leadership and the need for innovation in defense strategies, all while addressing the ethical implications of autonomous systems.

Join us for an enlightening fireside chat on Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, with Retired General Raymond A. 'Tony' Thomas III, one of this generation's most experienced combat and military leaders. Thomas shares his reflections on leadership, historical lessons, and the future of warfare, particularly focusing on AI and unmanned capabilities. He discusses his extensive military career, including his role in major operations and his time leading U.S. Special Operations Command. Thomas offers profound insights into Afghanistan's strategic challenges, emphasizing the critical importance of historical study, evolving military tactics, and ethical considerations in advanced combat technologies while maintaining unwavering commitment to constitutional principles. His analysis bridges military experience with deep reflection on institutional learning and technological challenges in modern warfare. This conversation is filled with invaluable lessons for future military leaders and anyone interested in the intricacies of modern warfare.   00:00 Introduction to the Fireside Chat  00:29 General Thomas' Distinguished Military Career  03:02 Leadership and Historical Reflections  06:38 Lessons from Afghanistan  13:47 The Role of Failure in Innovation  18:52 Integrating Technology in Leadership  23:30 Contrasting Warfare Standards  24:00 Israel's Existential Fight  24:55 Future Warfare and Legal Guidance  25:12 Israel and Hezbollah Conflict  28:30 Private Industry and Military Ethics  28:47 The Reality of War  30:09 Logistical Challenges in Warfare  33:18 Global Power Dynamics  35:51 AI in Military Operations  41:30 Historical Lessons and Leadership    Loved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.    Learn more:        Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics         Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP        Connect with us:            Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA         Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean           X: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma     Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dean.usma       Youtube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE    Recommended Books  "Washington's Crossing" by David Hackett Fischer  "The Civil War: A Narrative" (Trilogy) by Shelby Foote  "A History of the Twentieth Century" by Martin Gilbert  "An Army at Dawn: The War in North Africa, 1942-1943" (The Liberation Trilogy) by Rick Atkinson  "April 1865: The Month That Saved America" by Jay Winik    Credits:      Guest: General Raymond A. Thomas III:   (https://www.defense.gov/About/Biographies/Biography/Article/709270/general-raymond-a-thomas-iii/)  Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)     Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information Division  Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)   Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)        This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.   

Join us in this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, where we welcome Colonel David Beskow, Academy Professor in the Department of Systems Engineering. COL Beskow discusses his extensive experience and insights on bridging the gap between humans and machines using data science, particularly in cyber, intelligence, and special operations.  Learn about his fascinating journey from an infantry leader to the Chief Data Scientist at Army Cyber Command, his current role at West Point, and his cutting-edge research on generative AI, machine learning, and drone warfare. Get an inside look at the importance of becoming a data-centric force and how the U.S. Army leverages these technologies for operational success. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the future of data science in military and defense.   00:00 Introduction to Colonel Dave Beskow 00:12 Beskow's Background and Expertise 01:55 The Importance of Data in the Army 04:55 Challenges in Data Collection and Literacy 10:16 Drone Warfare and Autonomous Systems 16:50 Social Media and Bot Detection 19:48 Generative AI and Future Challenges 22:53 Understanding Synthetic Data 23:28 Generative AI and Historical Context 25:31 AI Hallucinations Explained 26:26 Generative AI in Military Operations 27:41 Operations Research Center at West Point 29:13 Current Projects and Research 33:22 Enriching Cadet Experience 36:54 Personal Insights and Background 41:44 Rapid Fire Questions 43:46 Conclusion and Farewell  Loved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.        Learn more:       Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics        Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP     Learn more about the Department of Space Science:  https://www.westpoint.edu/academics/majors-and-minors/space-science-major  Connect with us:           Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA        Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean          X: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dean.usma      Youtube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE  Credits:     Guest: COL Dave Beskow: (https://www.westpoint.edu/research/centers-and-institutes/operations-research-center) Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)    Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information    Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)  Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)           This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.  

In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, Lt. Col. Will Koch, Program Director for the Space Science Program at West Point, discusses the critical role of space in modern warfare. He shares his extensive experience from serving in Iraq to working with NASA on the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft. Koch highlights the challenges soldiers face with rapidly advancing technology, the importance of understanding and trusting space equipment, and the potential vulnerabilities in space assets. The conversation delves into the Space Science Program at West Point, recent research projects, including nuclear thermal propulsion, and the importance of programming skills for leaders. The discussion also touches on the militarization of space and maintaining technological advantages on the battlefield.00:00 Introduction to the Space Science Program 00:21 Lieutenant Colonel Will Koch's Background 01:40 Challenges in Modern Warfare and Space 02:53 Trust and Technology in Combat 03:41 Integrating Space Capabilities on the Battlefield 05:32 The Role of GPS and Technological Overreliance 08:40 Space Domain's Impact on Global Conflicts 11:30 Space Science Program Initiatives 17:47 Innovative Research and Projects 18:47 Nuclear Thermal Propulsion: The Future of Space Travel 24:12 Private Industry's Role in Space Exploration 24:58 The Space Cadre Course at West Point 26:28 Space Science and the War Fighter 28:31 Challenges in Space Militarization 31:56 West Point's Future in Space Innovation 33:37 A Journey from NASA to West Point 39:46 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Facts44:06 Final Thoughts and Advice Loved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.Learn more: Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWPLearn more about the Space Science Program: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics/majors-and-minors/space-science-majorConnect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean X: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dean.usma Youtube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBECredits: Guest: LTC Will Koch: (https://www.westpoint.edu/physics-and-nuclear-engineering/profile/william_koch) Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com) Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, Colonel Chris Mayer from the Department of Law and Philosophy at West Point discusses the importance of balancing technical competence with human skills in the age of AI. Mayer shares his extensive military and academic background, highlighting his work in integrating future force capabilities and his role in educating cadets to become leaders of character. The conversation explores his recent article on thriving in an AI-dominated world, the value of critical thinking, and how the humanities play a crucial role in developing well-rounded leaders. Mayer also delves into the challenges and opportunities posed by emerging technologies and the importance of continual learning and adaptability for future officers. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:16 Colonel Chris Mayer's Background01:46 Discussion on AI and Human Skills03:30 The Role of Critical Thinking05:09 Challenges and Future of AI in Leadership07:21 Balancing Technology and Human Skills19:41 Philosophy and Technology Intersection22:28 Operational Army Experience26:13 Veteran Insights on Counterinsurgency27:11 The Role of AI in Multinational Trust Building29:12 AI-Enabled Officers: Balancing Technology and Human Skills30:03 West Point's Educational Model and Critical Thinking33:29 Fostering Intellectual Maturity in Cadets35:49 Extracurricular Activities and Lifelong Learning38:25 Transforming Academic Structures at West Point41:51 Interdisciplinary Approaches to Military Professionalism46:00 The Value of Teaching and Lifelong Commitment to West Point48:51 Rapid Fire Questions and Final ThoughtsLoved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others. Learn more: • · Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics • · Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP • · Learn more about the Department of English and Philosophy: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics/departments/english-and-philosophyConnect with us: • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean • X: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dean.usma • Youtube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBECredits: • Guest: Colonel Chris Mayer: (https://www.westpoint.edu/english-and-philosophy/profile/christopher_mayer)• Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3) • Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information • Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com) • Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com) This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact, we explore the influential work of Professor Lori Sheetz, an assistant professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences and the Director of West Point’s Center for Leader Development in STEM (CLD STEM). With a rich background in geophysics and education, Lori has been instrumental in developing and leading STEM programs at West Point. From her initial role in 2009 to her current position as the CLD STEM director, Lori has continually expanded STEM education and outreach efforts. This episode details her efforts to reenergize the center with new curriculum, build meaningful collaborations, and provide cadets with leadership opportunities through innovative STEM courses and workshops. Learn about her strategies for engaging students across the U.S., the role of AI in their programs, and the impact of their mobile STEM events and summer workshops.   00:00 Introduction to Professor Lori Sheetz 00:34 Lori Sheetz' Journey and Achievements 01:50 Reenergizing the CLD STEM Center 04:25 STEM Outreach Programs and Initiatives 07:01 Summer STEM Workshops and Student Engagement 18:55 Understanding West Point's Role 20:32 Cadets as Ambassadors 22:31 Building Community Partnerships 26:44 Integrating Technology and AI 36:51 The Future of STEM Outreach  Loved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.       2 / 2  Learn more:       · Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics        · Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP     · Learn more about the Center for Leadership and Diversity in STEM:  CLD STEM Connect with us:           Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA        Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean          X: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dean.usma      Youtube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE  Credits:     Guest: Lori Sheetz: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-sheetz-96881128/)  Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)    Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information    Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)  Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)           This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.  

In this bonus episode of “Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact” podcast, tune in for a fireside chat featuring the twenty-fifth assistant to the US president for the Department of National Security Affairs, Retired Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster.You will hear a riveting fireside chat discussion in front of over 1,000 cadets at West Point on the warrior ethos, innovation, and the future of National defense. McMaster explains how he applied the lessons he learned and knowledge he gained throughout his 34 years of service in Army commands worldwide and at the highest levels of government as the National Security Advisor.0:00 Introduction of McMaster06:10 McMaster thanks cadets for volunteering to serve our nation at a critical moment of significant danger06:50 Discussion on the Warrior ethos11:00 Whether the US can opt out of war16:10 Discussion on the information campaign in warfare and the difference between physically and psychologically winning on the battlefield of perception19:45 Exploring current challenges in geopolitics and the ultimate test of a strategy35:45 McMaster’s prediction of the most prominent challenge cadets will face as they enter the Army40:23 Question and answer session with cadetsLoved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.Learn more:Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academicsInterested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWPReferenced resources: “Preserving the Warrior Ethos”Connect with us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMAFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadeanX: https://www.twitter.com/deanusmaThreads: https://www.threads.net/@dean.usmaYoutube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBECredits:Guest: Retired Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster (https://www.hoover.org/profiles/h-r-mcmaster)Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual InformationProduction: West Point Public Affairs-Visual InformationPublisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

In this episode of  Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, Retired General Vincent Brooks, currently serving as the Department of Behavioral Science and Leadership's Class of 51 Chair for the Study of Leadership at West Point, shares his extensive experiences and thoughts on leadership, innovation, and solving complex problems.   The discussion covers highlights of Brooks' distinguished military career, which spanned over 38 years, including his command roles in the U.S. Army and his involvement in key historical events such as the reduction of forces in Iraq, the increase of troops in Afghanistan, and addressing the Arab Spring. Brooks offers insights into the importance of the information domain in modern warfare, the value of empathy and understanding different cultural perspectives in building international relationships, and strategies for fostering innovation within large organizations like the U.S. Army. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions, touching on his inspirations, memorable moments, and advice for future leaders considering West Point.   00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:28 Brooks' Distinguished Military Career 03:32 The Role of Information in Modern Warfare 12:11 Challenges of Leading Complex Military Operations 22:56 The Importance of Global Internships for Cadets 23:38 Cadets' Reflections on International Experiences 24:21 Challenges and Benefits of Overseas Deployments 25:09 Defining Innovation in National Defense 26:03 Innovation vs. Initiative: Key Differences 26:44 Real-World Examples of Military Innovation 29:45 Encouraging Innovation in Large Organizations 34:26 Teaching Innovation and Leadership at West Point 40:35 Reflections on West Point's Evolution  Loved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.        Learn more:       Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics        Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP     Connect with us:           Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA        Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean          X: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dean.usma      Youtube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE  Credits:     Guest: General (retired) Vincent "Vince" Brooks: (https://www.westpoint.edu/research/centers-and-institutes/west-point-leadership-center/the-class-of-1951-distinguished-chair)  Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)    Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information    Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)  Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)           This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.