Hiatus Announcement: The Books to Battles team is taking a break for the remainder of the U.S. government is shutdown. We'll be back with full episodes as soon as possible. Thank you for your support!

In this episode of Books to Battles, Dr. Lina Svedin and Dr. Paige Reid discuss SAASS 632, International Relations. They explore the major theories, concepts, and debates that frame the study of global politics, highlighting how these ideas intersect with strategy and security. With readings on theory, strategic narratives, and power and change, the course challenges students to think critically about the international system and the role of air and space power within it. Their conversation illustrates how theory equips strategists to navigate today’s complex global environment.

All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the Department of Defense, the US government, or any other affiliated organization.

In this episode of Books to Battles, Dr. Wes Hutto discusses his new textbook Understanding International Security. He introduces the core themes and frameworks that shape the field, from great power competition to emerging challenges in cyber and space. Dr. Hutto explains how the book blends theory and practice to prepare students and professionals for today’s complex global environment. The conversation highlights the importance of critical thinking, historical grounding, and strategic insight in navigating contemporary questions of war and peace.

All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the Department of Defense, the US government, or any other affiliated organization.

In this episode of Books to Battles, Dr. Milena Jakšić examines the Luftwaffe’s operational air warfare during World War II and what it can teach us today. She explores how German airpower adapted—or failed to adapt—to strategic and operational challenges, and the consequences that followed. Drawing lessons for modern military professionals, Dr. Jakšić highlights enduring themes in the relationship between doctrine, innovation, and strategic effectiveness, showing how history can inform contemporary approaches to air and space power.

All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the Department of Defense, the US government, or any other affiliated organization.

In this episode of Books to Battles, the hosts tackle a set of pressing current events shaping strategy today. They discuss the upcoming Artemis II mission and its implications for U.S. space leadership, examine Russian incursions into Polish airspace and their impact on NATO security, and consider the forthcoming National Defense Strategy. Together, these conversations highlight how technological ambition, geopolitical tensions, and policy choices intersect—illustrating the challenges and opportunities facing air and space strategists in an increasingly complex global environment.

All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the Department of Defense, the US government, or any other affiliated organization.

In this second episode featuring thesis award winners we spotlight three outstanding thesis award winners from SAASS Class 34: Curtis Sinewe, Philip Jenkins, and Joe Regan. Each shares the insights and discoveries from their research, along with reflections on the thesis process itself. From innovative approaches to strategy to lessons learned along the way, their conversation highlights the intellectual rigor and creativity that define the SAASS experience and demonstrates how fresh scholarship can inform the future of air and space power.

All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the Department of Defense, the US government, or any other affiliated organization.

In this first part of a special two part series, Books to Battles highlights the SAASS thesis program and Class 34 award winners. This week's episode begins with Dr. John Maurer, director of the program, who explains its goals, rigor, and impact on strategic education. The conversation then turns to Chance Smith, recipient of the David R. Mets Award for History, who discusses his research, key findings, and the process behind crafting an award-winning thesis. Together, their insights reveal the intellectual depth and professional significance of the SAASS thesis journey.

All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the Department of Defense, the US government, or any other affiliated organization.

In this episode of Books to Battles, Col Neil Dimmit and Lt Col Rachel Reynolds share their journeys pursuing civilian PhDs and how those experiences shaped their careers as educators and strategists. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of balancing academic study with military service, the unique perspectives gained through civilian doctoral programs, and how those insights enrich their teaching at SAASS and across the Air Force. Their conversation highlights the value of intellectual depth in cultivating effective military leaders.

All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the Department of Defense, the US government, or any other affiliated organization.

In this episode of Books to Battles, Dr. Rich Muller, Dr. Rob Hutchinson, and Lt Col Ben Heidenreich discuss SAASS 627, Airpower in the Age of Total War. Covering airpower and military history through World War II, they explore technological innovation, strategic transformation, and the lessons learned from early air campaigns. The conversation highlights how the course connects historical context to modern strategic thinking, preparing students to apply the enduring principles of airpower to contemporary and future conflicts.

All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the Department of Defense, the US government, or any other affiliated organization.

In this episode of Books to Battles, Major General Parker Wright shares his perspectives on leadership, strategic education, and the evolving demands of air and space power. Reflecting on his career and experiences, he discusses the enduring importance of intellectual development for senior leaders, the challenges of modern conflict, and how SAASS prepares strategists to think critically in complex environments. His insights highlight the vital connection between rigorous academic study and the practical demands of today’s military operations.

All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the Department of Defense, the US government, or any other affiliated organization.