In this powerful return episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact, Ret. Gen. Scott Miller, one of the most experienced combat leaders of his generation, sits down with Brig. Gen. Shane Reeves to discuss leadership, trust, modern warfare, and the evolving demands placed on young officers. From Mogadishu to Iraq to Afghanistan, Miller reflects on timeless lessons, emerging challenges, and the character required to lead in today’s complex world.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – Leadership Reunion & Opening Reflections

01:17 – Why “Leaders Never Arrive”

02:44 – How to Build Your Own Intel Picture

04:37 – How the Information Space Has Transformed

07:29 – Trust, Transparency, and High‑Performing Teams

10:27 – Grit, Discomfort, and Developing Real Resilience

15:53 – Character as the Foundation of Command

17:12 – The Complexity of Modern Warfare

23:20 – Mogadishu: Timeless Lessons in Leadership & Combat

26:03 – Trust Under Fire: What Combat Reveals About Teams

26:45 – Risk, Bias for Action, and Decision‑Making Under Pressure

28:01 – Afghanistan: A Reality Check on Risk & Strategy

29:00 – Iraq Lessons: Target Lock and Tactical Blind Spots

32:02 – Ukraine and the Future of Lethality

34:42 – Lethality at Every Echelon

36:31 – Smart, Fast, Lethal, Precise: The Modern Leader’s Mandate

39:38 – Tech, Maneuver, and Freedom of Movement

41:33 – Communication as a Leadership Weapon System

46:36 – Breaking Target Lock: How to Think Clearly in Chaos

47:51 – Rapid Fire Questions & Closing Wisdom

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Learn more:

• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics
• Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP
• Learn more about the Combating Terrorism Center: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/

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Credits:

1. Guest: General (Ret.) Scott Miller: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-miller-9275b92a/)
2. Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)
3. Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information
4. Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)
5. Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact, Brigadier General Shane Reeves discusses AI transformation with Colonel Christopher Lowrance, Associate Professor and Deputy Department Head in the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department. The conversation covers Chris's extensive experience in AI, robotics, and network systems across various contexts, as well as his role in shaping AI-enabled leaders at West Point.

Key topics include the rise of generative AI, the ethical and practical implications of AI in education and the military, and West Point's initiatives, such as the AI Task Force and new educational courses, to prepare future officers. They explore the practical applications of AI, the balance between technological reliance and critical thinking, and the future outlook of AI advancements in both military and civilian sectors.

Episode Timestamps;

00:00 Introduction to Inside West Point Ideas At Impact

00:27 Meet Colonel Chris Lowrance: Advancing AI & Robotics at West Point

01:46 The Rise of Generative AI

03:38 AI in Military Operations and Career Experiences

07:17 Explaining AI to Non-Technical People

09:36 Machine Learning and Training Data

16:30 Understanding Machine Learning Algorithms

18:03 AI in Everyday Life

21:22 The Ubiquity of AI in Daily Life

22:53 AI Initiatives at West Point

23:47 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Education

25:27 AI's Impact on Military Operations

32:13 Integrating AI into the Curriculum

37:57 Rapid Fire Questions and Reflections

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Resources found in this episode:

Learn more:

1. Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics
2. Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://www.westpoint.edu/join-the-team

Books Mentioned in the Episode:

1. The Age of AI by Henry Kissinger and Eric Schmidt
2. Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI by Ethan Mollick

Connect with us:

1. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA
2. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean
3. YouTube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE

Credits:

1. Guest: Lieutenant Colonel Chris Lowrance - https://www.westpoint.edu/directory/christopher-lowrance
2. Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)
3. Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information
4. Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)
5. Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact, Brigadier General Shane Reeves, Dean of the United States Military Academy, engages in a compelling discussion with Lieutenant Colonel Chris Graves. A 2003 West Point graduate, LTC Graves shares his extensive military career journey from the infantry to special forces, his significant research and leadership roles, and his experience in Ukraine supporting the Commander of the Security Assistance Group Ukraine.

Back at West Point as the Civil Engineering Program Director, he discusses his award-winning research on assessing critical infrastructure using photogrammetry and remote sensing to enhance military operations. The episode further explores the integration of academic rigor with practical military applications, the importance of integrity and humility in leadership, and the unique mentorship and developmental experiences provided at West Point.

00:00 Introduction to Inside West Point

00:24 Meet Lieutenant Colonel Chris Graves

02:33 Chris Graves' Military Journey

02:56 The Engineering Enthusiast

05:11 Teaching and Mentoring at West Point

08:25 Lessons from the Field

12:22 Deployment and Adaptability

14:50 Problem Solving and Resilience

17:03 Problem-Solving Perspectives

17:25 International Collaboration and Ukraine

18:50 Research on Military Infrastructure

23:24 Cadet Capstone Projects

25:49 Mentorship and Development

28:28 Leadership Lessons and Humility

32:02 Rapid Fire Questions

34:29 Conclusion

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Resources found in this episode:

Learn more:

1. Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics
2. Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP

Books Mentioned in the Episode:

1. Ukraine Symposium: https://press.westpoint.edu/books/ukraine-symposium/

Connect with us:

1. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA
2. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean
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5. YouTube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE

Credits:

1. Guest: Lieutenant Colonel Chris Graves - https://www.westpoint.edu/directory/william-c-graves
2. Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)
3. Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information
4. Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)
5. Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

Join us for an inspiring episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, featuring the legendary Coach Mike Krzyzewski, also known as Coach K. With an illustrious career spanning nearly five decades, Coach K shares insights from his time as the head coach at Duke University and the United States Military Academy. Discover his unparalleled achievements, including five national championships and three Olympic gold medals. Coach K discusses his leadership philosophies, the values instilled at West Point, and the importance of adaptability, character, and preparation in effective leadership. Don't miss this deep dive into the life and career of one of NCAA's most successful coaches.

00:00 Introduction to Coach Mike Krzyzewski

00:20 Coach K's Legendary Career Highlights

03:36 The Importance of Team and Family

04:28 West Point and Bobby Knight

07:32 Leadership Lessons and Values

12:42 The Role of Character in Leadership

16:44 Adapting to Change and Continuous Learning

23:53 Encouraging Innovation and Risk-Taking

25:28 Building a Team of Elite Athletes

26:27 Creating a Culture of Ownership

29:18 Managing Pressure in High-Stakes Environments

31:03 Learning from Wins and Losses

36:24 The Importance of Being Coachable

38:10 Rapid Fire Questions with Coach K

Loved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.

Resources found in this episode:

Learn more:

• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics

Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP

Books Mentioned in the Episode:

• Leading with the Heart: Coach K's Successful Strategies for Basketball, Business, and Life - by Mike Krzyzewski (Author), Donald T. Phillips (Author), Grant Hill (Contributor)

Connect with us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA

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• YouTube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE

Credits:

• Guest: Mike Krzyzewski: https://coachk.com/

• Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)

• Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information

• Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)

• Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

Join Brigadier General Shane Reeves, Dean at the United States Military Academy at West Point, for an insightful discussion with the Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, on Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact podcast. They explore the history and future of West Point, the indispensable role of its graduates in global defense, and the evolving strategic landscape. Highlighting NATO's commitment to democracy, freedom, and security, the conversation delves into recent geopolitical challenges, the importance of transatlantic alliances, and the increasing interconnectivity of global threats. Learn about NATO's strategic initiatives, defense spending commitments, and the critical importance of trained and well-equipped military personnel in maintaining peace and stability worldwide.

00:00 Introduction to West Point's impact

00:30 Historical significance of West Point

01:41 NATO and global security

06:10 Support for Ukraine

10:09 Personal insights and leadership

14:04 NATO's role in the Indo-Pacific

19:47 NATOs shift in focus from counterterrorism to large scale combat operations

23:27 Advice for future military leaders preparing to work with coalition partners

27:02 NATO's purpose and challenges

32:25 Managing NATO's diverse membership and defense spending

36:34 NATO's response to Russian and Chinese threats

42:00 Valdimir Putin's Endgame in Ukraine

43:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Loved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.

Learn more:

• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics

• Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP

Connect with us:

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• YouTube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE

Credits:

• Guest: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte: https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/who_is_who_229125.htm

• Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)

• Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information

• Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)

• Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

Join Brigadier General Shane Reeves, Dean at the United States Military Academy at West Point, for an insightful discussion with the Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, on Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact podcast. They explore the history and future of West Point, the indispensable role of its graduates in global defense, and the evolving strategic landscape. Highlighting NATO's commitment to democracy, freedom, and security, the conversation delves into recent geopolitical challenges, the importance of transatlantic alliances, and the increasing interconnectivity of global threats. Learn about NATO's strategic initiatives, defense spending commitments, and the critical importance of trained and well-equipped military personnel in maintaining peace and stability worldwide. 

00:00 Introduction to West Point's impact 

00:30 Historical significance of West Point 

01:41 NATO and global security 

06:10 Support for Ukraine 

10:09 Personal insights and leadership 

14:04 NATO's role in the Indo-Pacific 

19:47 NATOs shift in focus from counterterrorism to large scale combat operations 

23:27 Advice for future military leaders preparing to work with coalition partners 

27:02 NATO's purpose and challenges  

32:25 Managing NATO's diverse membership and defense spending  

36:34 NATO's response to Russian and Chinese threats 

42:00  Valdimir Putin's Endgame in Ukraine 

43:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

Loved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.

Learn more:

• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics
• Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP

Connect with us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean
• X: https://x.com/deanusma
• Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dean.usma
• YouTube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE

Credits:

• Guest: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte: https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/who_is_who_229125.htm
• Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)
• Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information
• Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)
• Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, we welcome Colonel John Gregory, Deputy Head of the West Point Department of English and World Languages. Colonel Gregory shares his extensive background, including his roles at West Point, his education, and his experiences in Taiwan and China. Ever wondered how studying 18th‑century Chinese law feeds into modern military insight? To draw these connections, Gregory shares stories of his Voice of America Mandarin media debut and archival discoveries at Academia Sinica.

The conversation delves into the differences between Chinese and American legal and military systems, the impact of historical narratives on military strategy, and the importance of critical thinking in the U.S. Army. Gregory also provides insights into China's military modernization efforts and offers advice for new professors. The episode concludes with Gregory sharing his views on the perception of West Point in China and his best leadership advice.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:11 Colonel John Gregory's Background

00:53 Understanding Philology

01:41 Media Encounters and Gitmo Discussion

02:38 Fulbright Experience in Taiwan

04:22 Research on Chinese Law and Archives

06:55 US-China Legal System Comparison

12:40 Cadet Development and Language Studies

16:15 Cultural Differences in Military Practices

21:03 China's Historical and Political Context

23:03 US-China Competition and Modernization

38:08 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

Loved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.

Resources found in this episode:

Learn more:

• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics
• Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP

Books Mentioned in the Episode:

• Stillwell and the American Experience in China by Barbara Tuchman
• The Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels
• Truth and Method by Hans-Georg Gadamer
• Mimesis: The Representation of Reality in Western Literature by Erich Auerbach
• Works by Michel Foucault

Connect with us:

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• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean
• X: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma
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• YouTube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE

Credits:

• Guest: Colonel John Gregory
• Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)
• Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information
• Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)
• Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

Welcome to another episode of  Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact podcast. Join Brigadier General Shane Reeves, Dean of the United States Military Academy at West Point, as he hosts an all-star panel discussion exploring the crucial topics of mentorship and leadership across the military and business. Featuring insights from notable professionals such as financial executive and former Deputy National Security Advisor Dina Powell McCormick, Senator Dave McCormick, Oscar-winning producer Brian Grazer, and former Johnson & Johnson CEO Alex Gorsky, this episode offers transformative perspectives on how to navigate and thrive in various career paths. The panelists share personal stories of their mentors, describe the importance of mentorship in their fields, and provide valuable advice for the cadets on the cusp of significant milestones in their careers. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the impact and strategies of effective leadership and mentorship.

00:00 Introduction to Inside West Point

00:54 The Yearling Class and Affirmation

01:56 Introducing the All-Star Panel

02:08 Dina Powell McCormick's Journey

03:06 Senator Dave McCormick's Background

04:44 Brian Grazer's Mentorship Story

05:42 Alex Gorsky's Leadership Insights

06:55 The Importance of Mentorship

12:51 Writing a Book on Mentorship

15:51 Mentorship in the Military

20:26 Wrestling and Leadership

22:22 Brian Grazer's Early Struggles

25:05 Curiosity and Communication Skills

26:02 Defying Expectations: College Journey

27:06 Serendipitous Job at Warner Brothers

28:48 Learning from Hollywood's Best

31:10 Mentorship and Self-Belief

33:22 Leadership Insights from Johnson & Johnson

41:07 Technology and Leadership in Modern Warfare

48:08 Lightning Round: Favorite Books and Stories

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Resources referenced in the episode:

• Who Believed in You: How Purposeful Mentorship Changes the World – by Dina Powell McCormick & Senator Dave McCormick

• A Beautiful Mind – by Sylvia Nasar

• The Book of Five Rings – by Miyamoto Musashi

• The Splendid and the Vile – by Erik Larson

• Undaunted Courage – by Stephen E. Ambrose

Learn more:

• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics
• Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP

Connect with us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean
• X: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma
• Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dean.usma
• YouTube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE

Credits:

• Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)
• Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information
• Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)
• Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, we sit down with Army Lacrosse Coach Joe Alberici as he discusses his 20-year tenure at West Point, the remarkable successes of the lacrosse program, the connection between excellence on the field and excellence in the classroom, and his philosophy on leadership and resilience. Coach Alberici reflects on memorable seasons, including the historic 2023 run in the NCAA tournament, and shares insights into his coaching methods and personal influences. Hear how these experiences prepare cadets for future leadership in the U.S. Army.

Join us for an inspiring conversation that shows you how to build a strong team culture, train your mind, and achieve excellence.

00:00 Introduction to Coach Alberici

01:23 2023 NCAA Tournament Highlights

03:51 Team Building and Leadership

04:39 West Point's Unified Mission

08:10 Coach Alberici's Background and Inspiration

14:18 Impact of Early Coaching Experiences

21:14 Emphasizing Academics in Lacrosse

24:33 Defining the West Point Man

25:13 Witnessing Cadet Transformation

25:52 Evolution of Division One Sports

28:00 Daily Routine of a Coach

29:49 Building Resilience in Cadet Athletes

33:10 The Warrior Ethos and Team Cohesion

39:07 Legacy of Army Lacrosse

43:48 Rapid Fire Questions

45:37 Conclusion and Podcast Information

Loved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.

Learn more:

• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics
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• YouTube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE

Credits:

• Guest: Joe Alberici: (https://goarmywestpoint.com/staff-directory/joe-alberici/187)
• Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)
• Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information
• Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)
• Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

This episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact features Retired General Scott Miller, a West Point Class of 1983 graduate and West Point Combating Terrorism Center Class of 1987 Senior Fellow. General Miller discusses his nearly 40-year career, including key assignments and achievements. Topics covered include how sports prepared him for military success, the integration of technology and AI in modern warfare, the importance of continuous learning, and what makes great leaders. The conversation also touches on the future of warfare, the challenges of battlefield leadership, and advice for young officers.

00:00 Introduction to Miller

00:13 Miller's Military Journey

00:50 Honors and Accolades

01:01 Welcome Back to West Point

01:28 Athletics and Military Preparation

02:36 Leadership and Culture

03:39 Memorable Moments and Reflections

05:10 The Human and the Machine: Leadership on the Battlefield

05:43 The AI Revolution in Military Strategy

09:26 Data and Decision Making in Warfare

11:51 Technology and Ethical Considerations

14:52 Trust and Accountability in AI

22:07 Historical Innovations and Integration

24:30 Technological Innovations on the Battlefield

24:42 Historical Resistance to Change in the Military

25:29 Embracing New Warfare Technologies

27:16 Insights from Military Leaders and Experts

28:13 Future of Warfare: Predictions and Challenges

29:50 Drone Warfare and Its Implications

34:54 Leadership and Retention in the Military

38:06 Integrating Technology in Military Training

39:31 Continuous Learning and Personal Development

42:19 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

Resources Mentioned in the Episode

• The Coming Wave by Mustafa Suleyman with Michael Bhaskar
• The Centurions by Jean Lartéguy

Loved this episode? Remember to rate, review, follow, and share this podcast with others.

Learn more:

• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics
• Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP
• Learn more about the Combating Terrorism Center: https://ctc.westpoint.edu/

Connect with us:

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• Youtube: https://bit.ly/INSIDEWP-YOUTUBE

Credits:

1. Guest: General (Ret.) Scott Miller: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-miller-9275b92a/)
2. Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)
3. Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information
4. Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)
5. Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.