In this second episode of “Stone by Stone,” a new “Inside the Castle” podcast series, we talk with Frannie Bui, the National Hurricane Program Manager for the National Planning Center of Expertise for Coastal Storm Risk Management, which is located in the Corps’ Baltimore District. Listen as Bui discusses hurricanes preparedness, the National Hurricane Program and the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.

The National Hurricane Program is a federal interagency partnership between the Corps, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The program provides tools and resources to plan, prepare for and manage risk against hurricanes, delivers comprehensive hurricane evacuation training and technical support to partners and provides real-time information and guidance to state and local emergency managers in support of their hurricane evacuation decisions during hurricane approach.

The “Stone by Stone” series is bite size in scope, providing listeners with a shorter, focused update on critical U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-related issues impacting our nation. The “Inside the Castle” podcast goes behind castle doors to have real conversations with real people about solving the nation’s toughest challenges.

Welcome to the first installment of “Stone by Stone,” a new "Inside the Castle" podcast series that is bite size in scope, providing listeners with a shorter, focused update on critical U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-related issues impacting our nation.

Today, we delve into the critical issues facing the Mississippi River with Dr. Robert L. Miller, following the conclusion of the Mississippi River Commission’s annual low-water inspection trip. The MRC, a vital part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, works to maintain and improve the Mississippi River system for navigation, commerce, and environmental stewardship. Dr. Miller, a distinguished member of the MRC with a background in civil engineering and extensive experience in water resource management, recently completed the journey down the river, assessing conditions and engaging with stakeholders as historically low water levels continue to impact navigation, commerce, and communities along the river system.

This annual inspection trip is a cornerstone of the MRC’s mission to gather firsthand information and address concerns from local communities. In this insightful interview, Dr. Miller discusses the MRC’s observations and ongoing efforts to maintain a navigable river for vital economic activity. He shares insights gleaned from his decades of experience, including his previous roles with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and the Louisiana State Legislature. We’ll explore the impacts on barge traffic, the national supply chain, and the long-term strategies being considered to ensure the Mississippi River remains a crucial artery for the nation.

Welcome to the first installment of “Stone by Stone,” a new "Inside the Castle" podcast series that is bite size in scope, providing listeners with a shorter, focused update on critical U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-related issues impacting our nation.

Listen as we delve into the critical issues facing the Mississippi River with Dr. Robert L. Miller, following the conclusion of the Mississippi River Commission’s annual low-water inspection trip. The MRC, a vital part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, works to maintain and improve the Mississippi River system for navigation, commerce, and environmental stewardship. Dr. Miller, a distinguished member of the MRC with a background in civil engineering and extensive experience in water resource management, recently completed the journey down the river, assessing conditions and engaging with stakeholders as historically low water levels continue to impact navigation, commerce, and communities along the river system.

This annual inspection trip is a cornerstone of the MRC’s mission to gather firsthand information and address concerns from local communities. In this insightful interview, Dr. Miller discusses the MRC’s observations and ongoing efforts to maintain a navigable river for vital economic activity. He shares insights gleaned from his decades of experience, including his previous roles with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and the Louisiana State Legislature. We’ll explore the impacts on barge traffic, the national supply chain, and the long-term strategies being considered to ensure the Mississippi River remains a crucial artery for the nation.

Welcome to the Build Strong With Us series where we give our listeners an opportunity to learn more about the diverse people, mission impact, and career opportunities our personnel experience within the US Army Corps of Engineers. In this edition we talk with US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Anthony Watters, a Maintenance Supervisor for Wolf Creek and Laurel Power Plants working on the front lines of hydropower.

In this episode of Inside the Castle, we spotlight the critical and often lesser-known role of tribal liaisons within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Join us as we sit down with Melissa Leslie (Seattle District) and Sean O'Donnell (Alaska District) to explore how these dedicated professionals build government-to-government relationships with Tribal Nations and Alaska Native communities.

From honoring treaty rights and navigating complex land challenges to advocating for infrastructure needs and cultural preservation, our guests share personal stories and professional insights about what it means to serve as a bridge between the Corps and sovereign tribal partners. Tune in for an honest, thoughtful conversation on trust, responsibility, and the power of listening ... and discover how these liaisons are shaping a trusted and collaborative future for the Corps.

In this special episode, we sit down with Mr. Edward Belk, Director of Civil Works for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, as he prepares to retire after 38 years of extraordinary service. From humble beginnings as a temporary GS-9 on a Mississippi River survey crew to leading the entire Civil Works Directorate, Mr. Belk shares the stories, challenges, and human connections that defined his career.

Listen in as he reflects on:

• The power of people in public service

• Lessons learned from flood response and war zones

• The future of water infrastructure in America

• Why the Corps' mission matters more than ever

• Encouragement for the next generation of leaders

Whether you're a Corps insider, a federal employee, or simply curious about what goes on "inside the castle," this episode is a masterclass in leadership, humility, and service to country.

Listen now and be inspired by one man’s journey through decades of dedication, challenges, and unforgettable river stories.

In this edition we talk with US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Brittany Bruder a Coastal Research Engineer with the US Army Corps of Engineers Engineer Research and Development Center, Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory – Field Research Facility.

In this edition we talk with US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Brian Ellis with the US Army Corps of Engineers Aviation Program Office based in Huntsville, Alabama. Brian spent a career in uniform in the aviation field, and is now applying that expertise and knowledge to drive innovation within the Corps of Engineers.

Welcome to the Build Strong With Us podcast series where we give our listeners an opportunity to learn more about the people, mission impact, and career opportunities our personnel experience within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In this edition, we talk with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' (USACE) Eric Daniels with the Talent Acquisition Center of Excellence. Eric began working in the field of talent acquisition while in uniform as an Army recruiter. After retiring, he explored other career opportunities, but the call to help the Army attract and retain top talent called him back. To suggest a topic for a future episode, email [email protected].

In this episode, we are joined by COL Pabis, Commander of the New England District. We’ll hear about the District’s role in shaping USACE, and the valuable work being done today and in the future.