The Proceedings Podcast
U.S. Naval Institute
The Naval Institute is a private, not-for-profit educational institution whose mission is to provide an independent forum for those who dare to read, think, speak, and write to advance the professional, literary, and scientific understanding of sea power and other issues critical to global security.
Every week on the Proceedings Podcast, the Naval Institute's Director of Outreach, Ward Carroll, and the Editor-in-Chief of Proceedings, Bill Hamblet, talk about what's happening in the Sea Services, latest news from USNI News, stories in Proceedings and Naval History magazines, and interview Naval Institute authors. Deputy Editor Bill Bray joins the cast from time to time as well.
Every week on the Proceedings Podcast, the Naval Institute's Director of Outreach, Ward Carroll, and the Editor-in-Chief of Proceedings, Bill Hamblet, talk about what's happening in the Sea Services, latest news from USNI News, stories in Proceedings and Naval History magazines, and interview Naval Institute authors. Deputy Editor Bill Bray joins the cast from time to time as well.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 4, 2025 • 44min
EP. 456: Lead Solo—Life Lessons from Blue Angel's Pilot CDR Frank Weisser
In this episode, host Bill Hamblet interviews CDR Frank Weisser, a two-time Blue Angels pilot who was deployed in combat three separate times. Frank shares insights from his book Lead Solo—published by the Naval Institute Press—reflecting on leadership, risk, and resilience drawn from his elite aviation career—including his unforgettable experience as lead pilot in the iconic movie "Top Gun: Maverick."
Aug 1, 2025 • 37min
EP. 455: Combat Fleets—Trends in Naval Shipbuilding Around the World
In this engaging discussion, Eric Wertheim, author of Combat Fleets, delves into the shifting landscape of global naval shipbuilding. He highlights the pressing challenges faced by the U.S. Navy amidst China’s rise, while showcasing innovative approaches from allies like Finland and Turkey. The conversation also explores the introduction of advanced frigates in the Philippine Navy and the burgeoning role of drones in naval warfare, particularly in the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, underscoring the need for international collaboration in modern defense strategies.
Jul 17, 2025 • 32min
EP. 454: The MLR ≠ The Stand in Force
Host Bill Hamblet and Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonels Brian Kerg and Bobby Fowler untangle the confusion between SIF and MLRs.
To read the article, visit: https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2025/july/mlr-stand-force
Jul 5, 2025 • 23min
EP. 453: The Tanker War
Quentin Zimmer, a Marine Corps Second Lieutenant and author, delves into the crucial maritime battles of the Iran-Iraq War. He explains how the U.S. Navy navigated the dangerous waters during the 1980s tanker war, employing innovative strategies like reflagging to protect vessels. The discussion highlights challenges faced in Operation Earnest Will, including a pivotal mine strike that impacted naval tactics. Zimmer shares valuable lessons from the USS Samuel B. Roberts incident, emphasizing the lasting relevance of these historical conflicts in today's military strategies.
Jul 3, 2025 • 33min
EP. 452: Punk's Force: Interviewing Ward Carroll
Bill Hamblet talks with author Ward Carroll about the latest book in the Punk series—Punk's Force—just released by the Naval Institute Press.
For more on Ward's latest book, visit: https://www.usni.org/press/books/punks-force
Jul 3, 2025 • 31min
EP. 451: USNI News Update with Sam LaGrone
Bill Hamblet talks with USNI News editor Sam LaGrone about updates on the Congressional budget, the air strikes in Iran, and more.
For the latest coverage from USNI News, visit: https://news.usni.org/
Jun 26, 2025 • 41min
EP. 450 A Quicklook Analysis of Israeli and U.S. Airstrikes in Iran
U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet weapons systems officer and TOPGUN graduate Graham Scarbro talks with host Bill Hamblet about the Israeli and U.S. airstrikes against Iran's nuclear program.
Jun 25, 2025 • 32min
EP: 449: Typhoon of Steel: The Triumph of American Naval Power at Okinawa
In a grueling 82-day struggle, naval aviators, naval surface forces, and amphibious combat units unleashed a “Typhoon of Steel” in the ultimate battle against an entrenched, determined foe. Eric Mills talks with author Chris K. Hemler about his article in the June issue of Naval History.
Jun 18, 2025 • 35min
EP. 448: Lessons from Japan and South Korea’s Submarine Builders
Bill Hamblet talks with U.S. Navy Reserve Lieutenant Jeong Soo “Gary” Kim about his latest article for Proceedings.
Jun 13, 2025 • 45min
EP. 447: Interview with VADM Mike Utley, Commander of NATO Allied Maritime Command
Bill Hamblet talks with Royal Navy Vice Admiral Mike Utley, Commander of NATO Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM) about challenges in the maritime environment of the Euro-Atlantic, and the importance of maintaining alliances and mission focus in an ever changing geopolitical landscape.
