Notre Dame International Security Center

In this episode of "Outside the Box, "hosts Michael Desch and Jim Webb are joined by guest Doug Bandow to discuss the parallels between today’s conflict in Ukraine and the tumultuous year of 1968. The discussion unpacks President Biden's strategies in Ukraine, highlighting a lack of clear victory definition and the echoes of past U.S. foreign policy dilemmas.

The panel explores how historical lessons apply to current geopolitical challenges, the initial moralizing of the conflict, and the broader implications of prolonged military engagements without clear objectives.

Tune in to this episode as the trio navigates through the intricate mix of history and policy, prompting a deep reflection on America’s role on the global stage and the possible paths forward in the Ukraine conflict.

Visit NDISC: www.ndisc.nd.edu

Join Anne Griffin '26 and Notre Dame political science professor Dr. Rose Kelanic as they explore the nuances of U.S. foreign policy decisions, from balancing power in Asia to the implications of green energy investments on national security. Gain perspective on the clash between academia and policy worlds, navigating incentives and challenges in shaping public discourse. From industry competition to strategic trade theory, join us for in-depth analysis on key topics influencing global dynamics and policy decisions.

In this episode of the Outside the Box podcast, host Dr. Michael Desch is joined by guests Dr. John Mearsheimer and Dr. Stephen Walt to discuss the taboo surrounding the Israel lobby. They highlight the historical backdrop of anti-Semitism in the West, conspiracy theories, and the tragic events of the Holocaust that make it challenging to discuss the lobby without triggering accusations of anti-Semitism. The guests also acknowledge that the lobby itself has used accusations of anti-Semitism to marginalize and silence critics. Overall, this episode delves into the intricate dynamics of interest group politics and criticizes not only the lobby but also Israel and the U.S.-Israeli relationship.

Visit NDISC: www.ndisc.nd.edu

From the experiences and viewpoints of citizens growing up in the global South to the challenges faced by policymakers in understanding the complex dynamics of a globalized world, we explore the interplay between economics, the environment, and social dynamics. Join us as we navigate through the nuanced thinking styles and biases that influence decision-making, drawing on insights from experts with diverse backgrounds and expertise.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion against Ukraine in February 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been likened to British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. The comparison is apt, but NDISC Director Michael Desch asks us to truly reckon with it.

He did so though his article in Harper's Magazine (https://harpers.org/archive/2023/10/the-tragedy-of-volodymyr-zelensky/), which prompted today's conversation between Dr. Desch and Senator Jim Webb.

Mike and Jim talk with former Lieutenant General Newbold about the recent actions of Senator Tuberville to block the president of the United States' selection of a new Commandant of the Marine Corps. In doing so, they compare the military's cultural history to today's political divide and attempt to uncover how and why they have changed.

In this episode of "Outside the Box," co-hosts Dr. Michael Desch and Sen. Jim Webb welcome Christopher Layne to discuss his recent co-authored article "Why Are We in Ukraine?" published in "Harper's Magazine" in June 2023.

Christopher Layne is University Distinguished Professor of International Affairs and the Robert M. Gates Chair in National Security at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University. His fields of interest are international relations theory, great power politics, U.S. foreign policy, and grand strategy.

Read Chris Layne's and Ben Schwarz' piece in "Harper's Magazine": https://harpers.org/archive/2023/06/why-are-we-in-ukraine/

Visit the Notre Dame International Security Center: https://ndisc.nd.edu/

An Interview with Ambassador Nancy Jo Powell by Pranav Guntupalli

Interview Summary : Ambassador Nancy Jo Powell speaks about the history of US relations with South Asia including the death of American ambassador Arnold Raphel in 1988, nuclear tension in the subcontinent, and re-emerging non-alignment in India’s foreign policy today. She also recounts her experience in the foreign service and shares advice for aspiring diplomats.

Biography: Ambassador Nancy Jo Powell is one of the most distinguished diplomats in modern American history. Ambassador Powell joined the foreign service in 1977, and served with distinction for over 37 years, including assignments as the US ambassador to Uganda, US ambassador to Ghana, US ambassador to Pakistan, US ambassador to Nepal, and as the first female US ambassador to India. In 2006, Amb. Powell received one of the US government’s most prestigious awards – The Homeland Security service to America award – for her work as the State Department’s senior coordinator on the Avian and Influenza epidemics. Amb. Powell holds the rank of Career Ambassador, the highest rank in the US foreign service.

An Interview with Chaplain Col. Billy Graham of the US Army by Pranav Guntupalli

Interview Summary: In this episode of the Students Talk Security podcast, Chaplain Billy Graham speaks about his military experience and the uniqueness of chaplaincy corp. Billy explains the crucial role of a Chaplain when a soldier dies in active duty, and shares his advice for ROTC students on how to cope with grief and stay "spiritually fit". Through personal anecdotes, Billy exposes a deeply human side of the military.

Biography: Chaplain Billy Graham is an US Army War College Fellow, which is the Army strategic education forum for senior officers. He has served as an Army chaplain for 20 years and been in the Army 28 years. He has served in different locations around the world including the Pentagon and three deployments to the Middle East. He is married to Robin and they have three grown children and 10 grandchildren. He enjoys outdoor activities, military history, and biblical studies.

Episode summary – In this episode of Students Talk Security,

Notre Dame senior and NDISC Undergraduate Fellow Benjamin Erhardt sits down with retired Navy fighter pilot, admiral, and fellow podcaster James A. “Sandy” Winnefeld, Jr. Their discussion covers topics ranging from the Admiral’s storied career – including his time as unit commander of the USS Enterprise during the 9/11 terrorist attacks and his tenure as Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff – to his insights on the crisis in Ukraine, the U.S.’s great power competition with China, the future of American innovation in defense, TOPGUN, Top Gun (yes, both!), and more. All throughout, Adm. Winnefeld imparts noteworthy wisdom and leadership advice for both budding and seasoned professionals in military, political, and business disciplines. He also provides timely advice on how to handle stressful decisions in today’s volatile world.

Interviewee bio – Adm. James A. Winnefeld, Jr. is a retired four-star admiral and was the ninth vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. His 37-year U.S. Navy career includes having served as commander of U.S. Northern Command and of NORAD, the North American Aerospace Defense Command. His operational commands include having served as commander of the U.S. Sixth Fleet, and of Allied Joint Command Lisbon. He also is a graduate of and former instructor at Navy Fighter Weapons School (a.k.a., TOPGUN). His awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, the Air Medal, and five Battle Efficiency awards.