Today we are joined by the new Commander of the 2nd Special Warfare Training Group, COL Josh Raetz. The COL opens the discussion listing his command initiatives and how 2 SWTG is preparing Soldiers for future conflicts. The discussion then develops to how cross-functional teams are better able to provide innovative solutions to complex problems than core teams without the organic expertise. Rounding out the discussion, COL Raetz offers his thoughts on the perception that a SWCS Cadre position is considered a punishment and not a sought-after job, and offers his insight on continuing to bring in high-speed talent to train Soldiers in the ARSOF Qualification course.

Today we are joined by Dr. Rick Dietrich and Mr. Bob Jones of the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School's Human Development Directorate (HDD). We open the discussion by talking about the Growth Mindset, challenges to performance and how SMs can work to self-improve. The Doctors mention how there will always be stress, but that the way forward for students is to seize what they can control (nutrition, PT, sleep etc) to help lay the mental groundwork for success. We also discuss how the SOCEP and HEAT programs assist our students in reaching their best performance throughout each of the Regimental Qualification Courses.

Today we are joined by Dr. Preston Cline (Mission Critical Team Institute) and Ms. Cecilia Craft (Special Operations Cognitive Enhancement for Performance  - SOCEP) to discuss team dynamics, the “growth mindset,” and cognitive capacity to think differently about problem solving. An ARSOF Assessment and Selection team is often used as an example. We explore how a newly-made team of individuals can pull together to achieve group goals. Key to success are group trust and group cohesion. MAJ Aguilar rounds out the discussion by expanding on the importance of ARSOF personnel having a mature-mindset and being able to methodically plan their career both for betterment of themselves and ARSOF as a whole.

Concluding our special on Great Power Competition we discuss the importance of consolidating battlefield gains to support long-term U.S. interests. COL Bryan Groves discuss how the Army develops “measures of effectiveness” to provide a long-term plan of winning on the ground. These measurable set of metrics allow Commanders to see where resources need to be deployed. MAJ Steve Ferenzi follows by explaining how ARSOF leaders can support the U.S. in the Great Power Competition, not only by maintaining unit readiness, but by fostering discussion within your circles. Such discussions would not only bring familiarity about the U.S. Defense Strategy, but also encourage new ideas and innovative solutions.

In this podcast continuing our “Great Power Competition” discussion MAJ Steve Ferenzi from USASOC G5 Strategic Planning Division offers examples of the expanding competition between the U.S. and near peer competitors such as Russia and China. He extolls the importance of building strategic alliances with partner nations to face down threats together, but cautions that the “U.S. Model” for defense may not be ideal for the region. COL Bryan Groves expands on this theme by stressing the necessity of interagency cooperation to overcome obstacles and bring strategic gains.

Today we are joined by COL Bryan Groves and MAJ Steve Ferenzi from the U.S. Army Special Operations Command G5 Strategic Planning Division to discuss "Great Power Competition" and ARSOF's role in support of the National Defense Strategy. MAJ Ferenzi leads by defining “Great Power Competition” and explaining the different components thereof. He follows by explaining how the U.S. can expand their influence within the Competition and set the stage to achieve strategic aims. MAJ Aguilar closes out the conversation by noting the increased importance of the information sphere of modern conflicts and ARSOF’s role within. Parts 2 and 3 of this podcast will be uploaded soon!

In 2006, Ken Dwyer was a young Captain leading a Special Forces Operational Detachment - Alpha in Afghanistan. During his tour of duty he was struck by a rocket propelled grenade and nearly killed.  In this episode, now LTC Dwyer gives an inspiring lesson on conquering adversity and the great personal cost of returning to active duty to continue his service as a member of the U. S. Army Special Forces. LTC Dwyer cites the unwavering support of his family and peers as key to his recovery. He also emphasizes the need to keep moving forward when faced with adversity.

Today we sit down with several members of the SWCS staff to discuss various ways for Soldiers and Families to stay resilient during the ongoing health crisis of COVID-19. The podcast opens with command Psychologist, COL Bobby Sidell offering technical definitions for the audience, allowing them to better understand the nomenclature. The COL is followed by Ms. Ceci Craft, a SWCS Cognitive Performance Coach who talks about the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and maintaining healthy daily routines. Rounding out the podcast is Command Chaplain, LTC Brad Lee speaking about the need to have faith during times of adversity and the necessity of maintaining strong bonds with your spouse, family and friends.

MG Patrick Roberson, Commanding General of SWCS, joins us to offer his take on one of his biggest initiatives; mentorship. General Roberson establishes the importance of trust, respect and interest when attempting to successfully develop subordinates. Also discussed is the General’s philosophy of keeping an open mind and an “I have a lot to learn from everybody” mentality. He extolls the virtues of the ability to learn not only from your mentor (superior) but also your mentoree (subordinate).