School of War

Matt Pottinger, a distinguished visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution and Chairman of FDD's China Program, dives into the urgent defense of Taiwan. He analyzes how a potential conflict could ignite and the crucial need for deterrence against China. Pottinger draws historical parallels, discussing military preparedness and its paradoxical effects on peace. He warns against the myth of accidental wars, emphasizing that leadership decisions shape conflicts. The conversation highlights Taiwan's strategic importance in global supply chains and the necessity for coordinated defense among allies.

Roger Wicker, a U.S. Senator from Mississippi and ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, shares insights from his military background and current defense priorities. He advocates for increasing U.S. defense spending to 5% of GDP and stresses the significance of military readiness in a changing global landscape. Wicker emphasizes the need for modernizing the nuclear arsenal, reforming procurement processes for better equipment, and strengthening alliances, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and Europe, to counter rising threats.

General Kenneth F. McKenzie Jr., a retired USMC general and former commander of U.S. Central Command, shares insights on military strategy in the Middle East. He discusses the evolution of CENTCOM and the challenges of balancing resources in a changing geopolitical landscape. McKenzie elaborates on the rising tensions between Israel and Iran, highlighting the implications for regional security. He also reflects on the importance of a liberal arts education in developing strategic thinking and the emotional impact of military service.

Joshua S. Treviño, Chief of Intelligence and Research at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, discusses the pressing issues surrounding the U.S. southern border. He emphasizes that immigration isn't the root problem but rather a symptom of broader security concerns. The conversation touches on historical conflicts in Texas and their ongoing impact on border dynamics. Treviño also highlights cartels as quasi-state actors and suggests reevaluating U.S.-Mexico relations through integrated security measures, citing historical cases like the Caroline Affair.

Richard Frank, a historian and author renowned for his works on World War II, delves into the weighty legacy of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He discusses the staggering human cost, shedding light on the often overlooked casualties in China. The conversation explores the strategic military decisions leading to unconditional surrender and the contrasting approaches taken by the U.S. Army and Navy. Frank also addresses the complexities behind the bombings, urging a comprehensive understanding of their profound impact on both Japan and beyond.

Ronald C. White, a Senior Fellow at the Trinity Forum and author specializing in Joshua Chamberlain, delves into the heroic life of this Civil War leader. He discusses Chamberlain's pivotal role at Little Round Top and his unique leadership style that rallied soldiers of the 20th Maine. The podcast examines Chamberlain's remarkable courage, contrasting him with fellow leader William Oates, and explores his post-war transition from academia to political prominence. White highlights the enduring legacy of Chamberlain's values and the importance of adaptability in leadership.

Rich Goldberg, a senior advisor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, provides insights into the Israel-Iran conflict. He discusses the escalating tensions, particularly between Israel and Hezbollah, and examines the tragic civilian fallout. The conversation dives into Iran’s strategic maneuvers and the implications for U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, arguing for a unified approach. Rich emphasizes the need for a stronger American stance to navigate the complexities of regional alliances and the potential threat of a nuclear-capable Iran.

Michael Sobolik, Senior Fellow in Indo-Pacific Studies at the American Foreign Policy Council, discusses China's geostrategy. Topics include Belt and Road Initiative, Chinese imperialism, historical geopolitical theories, and strategies for countering China. The podcast explores China's expansion in key regions, the implications of BRI, and debates on deterring war with China in the Western Pacific.

Author James Holland, known for The Savage Storm, discusses the Allied campaign in Italy. Topics include the decision to invade Italy, the mission to Rome, battles at Baytown and Salerno, and reevaluating Mark Clark's leadership.

Michael Kofman, Senior Fellow at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, discusses operational phases of the war in Ukraine - 'Two Wars,' assumptions, contingency, structure, field challenges, cyber overhype, and achieving favorable outcomes