Join us for another episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact. In this episode, we speak with Colonel Everett Spain about leadership studies and inspiring leaders’ impact the on talent development. We discuss Spain's research on leader evaluations and retention patterns, highlighting the importance of creating a positive culture. We also touch on the role of battalion commanders in shaping future leaders and the significance of innovation and intellectual development. Additionally, we mention the importance of character and the ongoing research efforts within the department.  

Chapter Summaries;  

0:00:00 Introducing Colonel Everett Spain and the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership  

0:02:10 Spain's personal experience with inspiring leadership  

0:09:30 Addressing the challenge of retaining and inspiring young officers.  

0:11:57 The voluntary nature of command and the need for opting in.  

0:18:57 Introduction to the Army Talent Management Task Force  

0:23:05 Challenges and considerations in talent screening and selection  

0:27:38 West Point as the intellectual center of the U.S. Army  

0:31:13 Leadership and strategic thinking for junior Army leaders  

0:33:21 The importance of thinking strategically for lieutenants  

0:35:52 The influence of character in high-stress situations  

0:37:41 Leaving a legacy of positive impact on others  

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Resources:  

• Col Everett Spain’s Research: https://bit.ly/WP_Spain  
• Department of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership: https://bit.ly/WP_BSL 
• Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/FutureWPFaculty    

Connect with us:         

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA      
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean        
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma        
• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics        

Credits:   

• Guest: Colonel Everett Spain, Department of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership   
• 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 us for another episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact. In this episode, Colonel Nicholas Clark and West Point Dean Brigadier General Shane Reeves explore the pivotal role of data-driven decisions in the military and. Clark sheds light on the inception of the Center for Data Analysis and Statistics, his creation of a data literacy program for the Army, and the surging significance of data and analytics. Clark underscores the imperative for officers to possess data literacy and unveils his research award focused on engaging undergraduates in data science. Tune in to discover how to enhance your data literacy and gain insights into the fulfilling realm of teaching at West Point. 

Chapter Summaries; 

0:00:00 Introduction to the podcast and the guest, Colonel Nicholas Clark 

0:02:08 Colonel Nicholas Clark's Career Trajectory in Data Analytics 

0:03:17 The role and work of West Point's Center for Data Analysis and Statistics 

0:07:50 Understanding the Importance of Cleaning Data 

0:10:09 Expanding the Data Literacy Course Across the Army 

0:17:00 Army's Reliance on Data in the Field 

0:20:03 Engaging Undergraduates in Data Science Through Sports Statistics 

0:26:30 Recognizing the Data Workforce Shortage 

0:28:08 Self-development Tips for Data Literacy 

0:30:49 The Strengths of West Point and its Core Values 

0:31:20 Closing Remarks and Call to Action 

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

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Books: 

• Be Data Literate: The Data Literacy Skills Everyone Needs To Succeed 1st Edition by Jordan Morrow 
• Effective Data Storytelling: How to Drive Change with Data, Narrative and Visuals 1st Edition by Brent Dykes 

• Data Literacy Course: https://talent.army.mil/data/  

West Point Organizations:  

• Department of Mathematical Sciences: https://bit.ly/WP_Math 
• Center for Data Analysis and Statistics: https://bit.ly/WP_CDAS  
• Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/FutureWPFaculty  

Connect with us:        

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA     
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean       
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma       
• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics       

 Credits:  

• Guest: Colonel Nicholas Clark, Department of Mathematical Sciences  
• 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 the conversation as we delve into the future of autonomous weapons, bringing together two experts from different fields to explore the potential benefits, risks, and ethical considerations surrounding this rapidly advancing technology. 

Professor Hitoshi Nasu, Professor of Law and expert on international security law, the law of armed conflict, and the law of weaponry, discusses incorporating the law of armed conflict into technological developments and the necessity of providing a well-rounded discussion to the integration of new technology on the battlefield. Recently retired Colonel Christopher Korpela, a seasoned military practitioner, and researcher in robotics and autonomous systems, discusses the complexities behind incorporating autonomous technologies into military operations. He highlights improved efficiency and reduced risks to human life as some of the key benefits. 

The conversation addresses misconceptions, emphasizes the need for public support, and highlights the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in refining perspectives and finding innovative solutions for the complexities of autonomous weapons. Explore these technologies' potential and lawful operation and join us in envisioning a safer and more secure world. 

Chapter Summaries; 

(0:00:02) - Start of the episode and introduction to the topic of AI and Robotics in modern warfare. 

(0:02:00) - Introduction to the guests, Korpela and Nasu, and their collaboration. 

(0:13:05) - Discussion on the differences between, and challenges of, autonomy and artificial intelligence in warfare, including the DoD's efforts to define a lethal autonomous weapons system. 

(0:17:05) - Discussion on the ethical and moral arguments against using technology in warfare. 

(0:26:20) - Discussion on the technical parameters for autonomous military systems, including the potential inclusion of legal parameters within the technology. 

(0:30:00) - Insight into the potential to team autonomous systems with soldiers. 

(0:31:17) – Discussion on how this work is developing discussions with external partners and cadets in the classroom.

(0:35:00) - Discussion on how autonomous systems could replace legacy systems and shift command responsibility. 

(0:37:00) - Discussion on the future changes autonomous systems may bring in the chain of command responsibility. 

(0:39:00) - Speculation on the potential changes autonomous systems may bring to the battlefield. 

(0:41:12) - Conclusion of the episode and final thoughts on the future of AI in warfare. 

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

Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• “Stop the Killer Robot Debate” article: https://on.cfr.org/3OBEEZm
• Learn more about the Robotics Research Center: https://bit.ly/WP_Robotics
• Learn more about the Lieber Institute of Law and Land Warfare: https://lieber.westpoint.edu

Connect with us:      

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA   
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean     
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma     
• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics     

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.    

Welcome to another episode of Inside West Point, Ideas That Impact! In this episode, West Point Dean Brigadier General Shane Reeves and Lieutenant Colonel Rory McGovern explore the importance of studying history in shaping strategic thinkers, especially within the military and national security sectors. They discuss stories McGovern uncovered through his research with the Black History Project at West Point. 

McGovern, a well-respected faculty member at West Point, provides valuable insights on the subject and emphasizes the crucial role history plays in preparing future leaders to navigate challenging and unpredictable battlefields.  

Join in on this conversation with McGovern in this thought-provoking episode as they shed light on history's crucial role in fostering strategic thinking and preparing leaders to face complex challenges.  

In this episode, you will learn the following:  

1. How does studying history contribute to the development of strategic thinkers, particularly in the military and national security sectors?  
2. What challenges did the earliest Black cadets at West Point overcome, and how can these stories inspire others?  
3. What are the practical skills and perspectives gained from studying history that can be applied to solve wicked problems and lead teams effectively?  

[CHAPTERS]  

[0:00:28] Introduction of Lieutenant Colonel Rory McGovern on his Background in History 

[0:01:17] McGovern’s discussion of the West Point Black History Project 

[0:14:50] Student Involvement in the Black History Project Research 

[0:16:55] Lessons from the Archives 

[0:21:00] Preview of Upcoming Book  

[0:24:45] Historical Biographies as a Tool for Leadership Development  

[0:29:30] History's Relevance to Navigating Complexities in National Security  

[0:32:15] History and Creating Strategic Thinkers  

[0:36:45] McGovern's Journey to Teaching at West Point  

[0:38:50] Closing Remarks: How has Teaching at West Point impacted McGovern  

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

Resources mentioned in the episode:  

•  Black History Project Digital Exhibit: https://usmalibrary.omeka.net/exhibits/show/foundations--black-experiences/foundations--black-experiences  
•  Learn more about West Point Press publications and podcasts at https://www.westpointpress.com 
• Learn more about the Department of History: https://bit.ly/WP_HIST 
• Lieutenant Colonel Rory McGovern Bio: https://www.westpoint.edu/history/profile/rory_mcgovern  

Connect with us:    

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dean.USMA   
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean   
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma   
• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics   

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.  

Welcome to another episode of “Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact” with Brigadier General Shane Reeves. In this engaging interview, Dr. Elizabeth Samet, a professor of English at West Point and author of "Looking for the Good War: American Amnesia and the Violent Pursuit of Happiness," explores the myths and realities of World War II. With their thoughtful and nuanced discussion, they delve into topics such as the importance of educating cadets about the realities of war and its aftermath, the danger of romanticizing war, and the need for a balanced view of history. 

Along the way, they also touch on the role of literature in understanding human behavior and the lasting impact of World War II on American society. Whether you're a history buff or interested in gaining a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in world history, we hope you'll tune in and join us for this fascinating conversation!

In this episode, you will learn the following:

• What are some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding World War II, and how can we dispel them through education and understanding?
• How important is education in preparing cadets for war and life beyond?

Chapter Summaries;

[0:00:04] Introduction of Dr. Elizabeth Samet on her Educational Background and Latest Book

[0:02:23] Interview with a Professional Writer and West Point Professor

[0:03:50] Dr. Samet’s Background: Father's Service in the Army Air Corps during World War II

[0:05:43] Evolution of Education and Training During Wartime

[0:08:08] Discussion on the Role of Literature in Understanding Human Behavior

[0:09:50] A Conversation on Education, Training, and the Myth of World War II

[0:11:59] The Myth of the Good War: A Conversation on America's Understanding of World War II

[0:18:05] Exploring the Myth of War and the Language of Fascism: A Conversation on the Legacy of World War II

[0:20:18] Exploring the Diverse Attitudes and Testimonies of World War II through Studs Terkel's Oral Histories

[0:21:32] Discussion on the dangers of American Amnesia and the need for a balanced view of history

[0:27:01] Discussion on the Importance of Reinvention and Balancing the Past and Future in Remembering World War II

[0:28:12] Discussion on the Complexities of War and American Exceptionalism

[0:33:19] Discussion on the Role of Literature and Education in Preparing Army Officers for Warfare and Beyond

[0:37:45] Last Words: How to Compile a Diverse Reading List

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.

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

Connect with us:

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma

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

Welcome to another episode of “Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact” with Brigadier General Shane Reeves. In this episode, we sit down with Colonel John Hartke, Head of the Department of Physics and Nuclear Engineering and leading Photonics expert, to discuss the Mobile Laser Project, an interdisciplinary research project being worked on by cadets and faculty at West Point.  

The Mobile Laser Project aims to develop a high-energy laser that can shoot down rockets, artillery, and other threats on the battlefield. Brig. Gen. Reeves and Col. Hartke discuss the project's objectives, the equipment and trailer used, the problem-solving and troubleshooting skills required, and the benefits cadets gain from working on the project. They also mention the Photonics Research Center's work on sensors and the legal implications of using lasers for blinding. This episode provides an inside look at West Point’s interdisciplinary research.  

In this episode, you will learn the following:  

1. What is the mobile laser project, and what is its objective?  

2. What advancements is the Photonics Research Center making in sensor technology, and how is it working to stay ahead of trends in their use on the battlefield?  

3. How does West Point use interdisciplinary collaboration in laser research?  

Chapter Summaries:   

[00:00:23]: Introduction of the mobile laser project and its objective to develop a high-energy laser that can shoot down rockets, artillery, and other threats on the battlefield.   

[00:04:41]: West Point's Photonics Research Center and High Energy Laser Joint Technology Office   

[00:05:08]: Interdisciplinary collaboration at the Photonics Research Center: A discussion of lasers, optics, and photonics   

[00:06:39]: Discussion on the use of lasers and sensors on the modern battlefield   

[00:09:49]: Conversation on the use of miniaturized sensors and mobile laser technology in military action   

[00:11:07]: Analysis of the Army's 100-kilowatt solid-state laser project   

[00:13:42]: West Point cadets' innovative solutions for high-energy laser weapon systems   

[00:18:07]: Interdisciplinary team successfully tests five-kilowatt laser in Bartlett Hall Basement  

[00:19:35]: Troubleshooting a laser system for cadet training   

[00:20:33]: Overview of laser system setup and testing at West Point   

[00:23:07]: Discussion on laser weapon system for air defense artillery   

[00:24:21]: Discussion on the impact of technology on warfighting and society   

[00:25:49]: Discussion on laser technology in the military education system   

[00:28:33]: Last thoughts on laser technology and encouraging more STEM majors to participate in the program  

Resources in this episode:  

Photonics Research Center- http://bit.ly/WP_PRC 

USMA Department of Physics and Nuclear Engineering- https://bit.ly/WP_PANE 

Col. Hartke’s Bio- http://bit.ly/WP_JH  

Thank you to the Photonics Research Lab supporters: Army Research Lab, Space and Missile Defense Command, and Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office. 

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement. 

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

Connect with us:  

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma 

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

Welcome to Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact with Brigadier General Shane Reeves. In this episode, we sit down with our guest Colonel Suzanne Nielsen, the head of the Department of Social Sciences at West Point and a leading civil-military relations scholar and expert. A graduate of the United States Military Academy with a Ph.D. in political science from Harvard University, and a background as an intelligence officer, Colonel Nielsen provides insight into her research on change in military organizations, civil-military relations, and cyber policy and strategy.  

We also focus on the Department of Social Sciences and the SOSH Research Lab’s work in the area of civil-military relations. The topic of civil-military relations is this year’s  annual intellectual theme for the Academic Program at West Point, entitled, “Called to Serve:  Military Leadership in a Democratic Republic.” Join us as we dive into these critical topics and  hear about Colonel Nielsen's experiences at West Point. 

In this episode, you will learn the following: 

1. What is the relationship between the armed forces and the society they serve? 
2. How can military expertise be connected to political and strategic thinking to achieve national interests? 
3. What are the lessons we need to teach young military officers? 
4. How is West Point leading in the area of civil-military relations? 

Chapter Summaries: 

[00:00:26]: Introduction to Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact and focusing on the SOSH Research Lab and the Department of Social Sciences work in civil-military relations. 

[00:01:50]: Interview with Colonel Suzanne Nielsen, head of the Department of Social Sciences at West Point, discussing her background and research interests in the change in military organizations, civil-military relations, and cyber policy and strategy. 

[00:06:35]: Discussion on the importance of political awareness and the role of military activities in serving political purposes. 

[00:16:58]: Apolitical vs nonpartisan; advice for young officers; impact of social media; SOSH research lab; 

[00:20:08]: Comparison of the works of Morris Janowitz and Samuel Huntington on the 

professional soldier and the education of officers. 

[00:27:05]: Discussion on the role of values in creating an inclusive and unified military. 

[00:32:35] Overview of the SOSH Research Lab’s initiatives and projects, including a 

longitudinal survey of cadet attitudes towards civil-military relations. 

Resources in this episode: 

Annual Intellectual Theme: bit.ly/CMRTheme 

Article, “The Continuing Relevance of Morris Janowitz’s The Professional Soldier for the 

Education of Officers”: bit.ly/WP_SNHL 

Department of Social Sciences: bit.ly/WP_Sosh 

Sosh Research Lab: bit.ly/WP_SRLab 

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

Connect with us: 

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usmadean 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/deanusma 

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

Disclaimer: This podcast/episode does not imply Federal endorsement. 

Join Brigadier General Shane Reeves, Dean of the United States Military Academy at West Point, as he takes you behind the scenes to explore the applied research and cross-disciplinary work being done by the Academy's scholars.  

From high-energy lasers and artificial intelligence to civil-military relations and ethics, this podcast goes beyond the textbook to give you a deeper understanding of the complex issues shaping the modern battlefield. Hear directly from the experts as they make even the most complex topics accessible to a broad audience. Get inside access to West Point's work and see how it's being applied today.  

Tune in for upcoming episodes by following us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on Instagram (@dean.usma), Facebook (Dean of the Academic Board-West Point), and Twitter (@DeanUSMA) for updates.  

Learn more about West Point’s academic program at https://www.westpoint.edu/academics. 

Disclaimer: This podcast/episode does not imply Federal endorsement.