In this episode of the Foreign Area Officer Podcast five former Army FAO branch chiefs join me for an in-depth discussion on a range of topics critical to Foreign Area Officers (FAOs). The panel includes Eldridge “Raj” Singleton, Steve Brown, Luke Donahue, Wes Cheney, and Pete Roongsang. They delve into the FAO training pipeline, in-region training, common mistakes made by new FAOs, and provide practical advice for career management and PCS assignments. The conversation highlights the role of the FAO branch chief, the importance of understanding military assignments, and the critical aspects of mentorship within the FAO community. The episode wraps up with personal anecdotes and practical advice aimed at helping FAOs navigate their careers successfully, emphasizing the need for proactive career management, understanding the complexities of diplomacy, personal relationships, and the value of mentorship.

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers

00:41 Meet the Host and Guests

01:26 Colonel Singleton's Journey

02:34 Colonel Brown's Experience

03:46 Colonel Donahue's Career Path

05:51 Lieutenant Colonel Cheney's Background

07:02 Colonel Ang's Story

09:37 Discussion on FAO Training Pipeline

10:52 Challenges and Solutions in FAO Training

24:18 Mistakes and Lessons for New FAOs

40:59 Role of the FAO Branch Chief

48:55 Navigating Authority and Friction in Assignment Processes

49:31 The Role and Challenges of a Branch Chief

50:51 The Importance of Road Showing and FAO Relevancy

54:28 Career Management and Assignment Strategies

01:04:40 Financial and Logistical Challenges in PCS

01:13:22 Integrity and Professionalism in FAO Careers

01:38:06 Falsifying Graduate Degree and Army Dismissal

01:38:25 Inappropriate Behavior at the US Embassy

01:40:23 Assignment Refusal and GI Bill Forfeiture

01:42:09 Misconduct and Consequences in the FAO Community

01:46:22 Challenges and Support for FAOs

01:54:12 Mentorship in the FAO Community

02:16:03 Final Thoughts and Advice for FAOs

In this episode of the Foreign Area Officer Podcast, host Michael Hill interviews retired Lieutenant Colonel Bill Woods, an Eastern European FAO and current instructor at the Joint Military Attaché School (JMAS). LTC Woods shares his experiences and challenges faced during his career, including the undervaluation of FAOs in the past, his roles in Naples, Cyprus, and London, and the importance of building relationships in diplomatic and military contexts. The discussion also touches on the practical aspects of being an FAO, the impact of critical thinking and current doctrinal knowledge, and the unique experiences and opportunities presented by serving at JMAS. Bill reflects on the importance of having fun in the job and staying engaged in current assignments while planning for future roles.

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer

00:42 Welcome and Guest Introduction

00:59 Early Experiences as a FAO

02:13 Challenging Assignments and Career Growth

04:44 Political Advisor Role in Baghdad

07:47 NATO Advisor Experience

23:22 Greek Language and Cultural Immersion

41:39 Access and Opportunities in Foreign Military Education

43:06 Challenges and Misconceptions in Greek War College

44:19 Thesis Writing and Overcoming Language Barriers

44:58 Navigating Cultural and Academic Expectations

45:33 Ethical Dilemmas and Academic Integrity

46:31 Building Relationships and Gaining Respect

47:25 Experiences and Reflections on Military Assignments

49:45 The Importance of Fitting In and Building Trust

51:29 Protocol and Respect in International Military Relations

54:33 Career Path and Assignments in Military Diplomacy

55:59 Navigating the Attache Service and Career Challenges

57:54 The Role of FAOs in Multinational Operations

01:00:25 Balancing Operational Knowledge and Diplomatic Skills

01:07:31 The Value of War College and Continuous Learning

01:20:02 The Future of FAOs in a Changing Military Landscape

01:22:39 Experiences and Challenges in Cyprus

01:27:11 Minister's Support and Explosive Seizure

01:28:06 Meeting the Minister of Defense

01:28:59 The Explosion and Its Aftermath

01:30:14 Improving Relationships Post-Explosion

01:33:44 Challenges and Strategies in Diplomatic Relations

01:42:24 Reflections on Career and FAO Experiences

01:53:13 Working at the Joint Military Attaché School (JMAS)

01:58:28 Advice for Future FAOs and Instructors

02:08:22 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode I’m happy to welcome back LTC(P) Wes Chaney, US Army AFRICOM FAO.  Wes shares his journey in establishing the Army Foreign Area Officer Association and discusses his first book, which delves into his experiences as a security cooperation officer in Africa. The conversation covers a variety of topics including the creation of his Africa OSC blog, the unique challenges faced by FAOs, the importance of mentorship, and the activities of the Army FAO Association. Wes also provides invaluable advice on managing expectations, senior leader engagements, and the specific 'shoulds' (don’t be that guy!)and 'traps' FAOs should be aware of. The episode is a goldmine of information for both current and aspiring FAOs, offering practical tips and reflective anecdotes from Wes's extensive career.

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers

00:40 Welcoming the Guest: Lt. Col. Wes Cheney

01:13 The Birth of the Africa OSC Blog

04:12 Challenges and Realizations in Blogging

06:53 From Blog to Book: The Journey

07:31 Publishing Hurdles and Success

08:59 Content and Structure of the Book

10:38 Practical Advice for Security Cooperation Officers

14:54 The Importance of Adaptability and Learning

15:42 Travel Tips and Cultural Insights

40:21 The Should List: Dos and Don'ts for SCOs

47:36 Understanding Your Role and Building Consensus

48:36 Common Pitfalls in Security Cooperation

49:50 The African Love Traps and Other Hazards

50:48 Misuse of Government Resources

51:12 Managing Health and Stress

01:06:00 The Importance of Senior Leader Engagements

01:16:22 Managing Expectations and Avoiding False Promises

01:22:43 The Army FAO Association: Achievements and Future Plans

01:28:31 The Importance of Mentorship in FAO Careers

Meet MAJ(P) Promotable Jacob Myers, currently serving at the Military Advising Training Academy (MATA) at Fort Benning, Georgia. Our discussion covers the purpose and function of MATA, the development and training of military advisors, and the history and evolution of Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFABs). Myers elaborates on his experience in Latvia, the challenges of building rapport and training in a foreign country, and the rapidly changing dynamics in Eastern Europe following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. We also touch on FAO professional development, the importance of language skills, and the valuable interactions and learning opportunities throughout a FAO’s career.

Books Discussed:

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers

00:45 Meet Major Promotable Jacob Myers

01:11 Understanding the Military Advising Training Academy (MATA)

02:29 History and Evolution of Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFABs)

06:53 Training and Deployment of Military Advisors

10:22 Challenges and Realities of Military Advising

14:05 Combat Advisor Training Course (CATC) Overview

19:14 Practical Training and Exercises

28:50 Expanding Training to Joint Forces and Foreign Partners

35:25 The Role of FAOs in SFABs

39:52 Personal Experience and Future Aspirations

43:51 Understanding the FAO Roles and Responsibilities

46:02 Navigating Challenges in Latvia During COVID-19

47:20 Impact of Russia's Invasion of Ukraine on Latvia

51:02 Strengthening US-Latvia Defense Relations

01:10:07 Language and Cultural Dynamics in Latvia

01:20:21 Jacob's Journey: From Basic Training to FAO Program

01:21:35 Joining the National Guard and Pursuing Active Duty

01:21:58 Transition to Active Duty and Deployment to Afghanistan

01:23:02 Experiences in Afghanistan and Promotion to Captain

01:25:20 Pentagon Assignment and Introduction to FAO

01:26:14 Discovering the FAO Program and Early Influences

01:29:58 Training and Assignments as a FAO

01:30:42 Language Training and Family Experiences

01:32:27 Marshall Center and Regional Travels

01:42:35 Importance of Building Relationships and Staying Informed

01:47:49 Final Thoughts and Advice for FAOs

What crisis was central to your experience working at a U.S. embassy abroad, for better or worse?

Join me in a discussion with COL(R) JP Gresh to discuss his  experiences in Russia, Ukraine, and the Balkans. The conversation highlights key moments such as the 2013-2014 Ukraine crisis, the challenges of security cooperation in Estonia, and the complexities of working in Russia. Additionally, Gresh shares insights into balancing professional and personal life with a spouse in the Department of State, and offers advice for future FAOs on training, career growth, and the importance of adaptability and maintaining strong interagency relationships. COL(R) Grech also serves as the Co-Editor-in-Chief of the FAOA Journal.

Books/Organizations Discussed

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers

00:46 Meet Colonel JP Gresh

01:33 Early Military Career

02:51 Discovering the FAO Path

03:51 Experiences in Germany and the Balkans

05:52 Reflections on Iraq

10:37 Ukraine: First FAO Utilization Tour

13:47 The 2014 Ukrainian Crisis

15:57 US-Ukraine Military Relations

19:52 Strategic Insights on Russia and NATO

29:44 Lessons from UCOM and Security Cooperation

50:54 Balancing Dual Careers in the FAO World

54:14 Reflecting on Professional Challenges and Lessons Learned

56:44 Navigating a Tandem Career in the Department of State

57:19 Insights on Managing Dual Professional Careers

59:33 Experiences and Challenges in Russia

01:01:10 The Complex Relationship Between the U.S. and Russia

01:05:48 Living and Working in Moscow

01:08:54 Surveillance and Daily Life in Moscow

01:12:46 Diplomatic Restrictions and Challenges

01:18:27 Family Life and Safety in Russia

01:23:33 Post-Retirement and Contributions to the FAO Community

01:28:28 Reflections on FAO Training and Career

01:44:22 Final Thoughts and Parting Advice

In this episode of the Foreign Area Officer Podcast, I interview Julie Tully and her husband U.S. Navy CAPT(R) John Tulley. We discuss Julie's transition from a cowgirl in Northern California to a 'nomadic Navy spouse' and the dynamic journey from her career in agriculture to becoming a Foreign Area Officer (FAO) spouse, living and working in Europe and Africa for fifteen consecutive years. The conversation delves into the couple’s experiences living in Cameroon, Nigeria, and Djibouti and the impact of their roles there. They touch on memorable challenges, the importance of self-reliance, and the significant contributions spouses make to the FAO mission. Julie also shares the inspiration and stories behind her book, 'Dispatches from the Cowgirl,' offering a deeper look into the FAO lifestyle and its challenges and rewards.

Learn More about Julie’s work at www.JulieTullyWriter.com

Books Discussed:

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers

00:45 Meet the Guests: John and Julie Tulley

01:19 Julie's Journey: From Cowgirl to Navy Spouse

03:37 Life on the Ranch and Transition to FAO

04:55 The FAO Lifestyle: Challenges and Adaptations

14:11 John's Naval Academy and Submarine Experience

19:16 Discovering the FAO Career Path

22:07 Julie's Perspective: Public Relations and FAO Life

25:46 Adventures and Challenges in Africa

34:16 The Importance of Teamwork in FAO Assignments

43:10 A Hospital Emergency Room in Nigeria

57:04 The Commissary Conundrum

59:10 Internet Surprises in Nigeria

59:47 Defining Home Across Continents

01:09:18 Experiencing Local Cultures Through Staff

01:34:19 Honoring a Fallen Hero in Djibouti

01:49:14 Reflections on the FAO Life

Join me for an illuminating discussion with Colonel Matt Kopp, a U.S. Army FAO. We explore Colonel Kopp's beginning as a 48B, focusing on pivotal partnerships in Latin America, particularly during the final phases of Colombia’s Civil War. Colonel Kopp shares insights into his transition to a 48J, concentrating on Sub-Saharan Africa, and the critical need to understand and respond to the human and institutional complexities in these regions. The conversation includes discussions on his operational challenges, such as managing high-profile visits and interagency coordination, and the role of psychology and sociology in his duties. We also touch upon his work with the Army Foreign Area Officer Association, focusing on mentorship, fostering academic discourse, and preparing FAOs for influential second careers.

Books Discussed

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers

00:42 Meet Colonel Matt Kopp

01:01 Career Choices and Transitions

02:22 Experiences in Sub-Saharan Africa

03:39 Challenges and Responsibilities at HRC

08:23 PhD Journey and Research

15:36 Transition to Africa FAO

23:02 Building Relationships and Team Dynamics

31:07 Insights on Leadership and Collaboration

43:46 Psychological Factors and Broader Perspectives

48:18 Understanding Heuristics in International Relations

50:28 Managing High Operational Tempo in Kenya

51:00 Military Operations and Planning in Diplomatic Missions

56:26 Lessons from Secret Service and VIP Visits

01:04:04 Transition to Army Service Component Commands

01:13:01 Experiences in Latin America and SOUTHCOM

01:26:32 The Role of the Army Foreign Area Officer Association

01:33:31 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

This episode of the Foreign Area Officer Podcast delves into the unique background of LTC Lemar Farhad, USA, tracing his journey from a culturally diverse upbringing and Afghan heritage to his pivotal role in the U.S. Army. Lemar shares his transition into the FAO program, starting with his early assignments as an infantry and intelligence officer and detailing his first exposure to U.S. embassies and defense cooperation. Through captivating anecdotes, he highlights his significant assignments, including his work in Special Operations Command Europe, his impactful tenure as the ODC Chief in Kuala Lumpur, and his current role in Korea focusing on non-combatant evacuation operations (NEO). The conversation also explores challenges in leadership, the importance of understanding cultural contexts, and the value of reading to gain diverse perspectives. Lemar's journey exemplifies the integration of strategic thinking and operational expertise, emphasizing the art of diplomacy and the FAO community's crucial role in global defense and cooperation.

Articles:

Reimagining Policing in America—A Complete Institutional Overhaul by LTC Lemar Farhad

Books Discussed: 

2034 by Elliot Ackerman and Admiral (Ret.) James Stavridis USN

2054 by Elliot Ackerman and Admiral (Ret.) James Stavridis USN

Ghost fleet by P.W. Singer

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer

00:46 Meet the Guest: Lemar Farhad

01:04 Transition to FAO: From Field to Strategy

02:04 First Impressions of FAOs

03:33 The Path to Monterey

04:36 Language Training at DLI

12:12 Unexpected Assignment: Malaysia

13:34 Experiences at the Malaysian Staff College

14:35 Return to the U.S. and Grad School

19:33 First Assignment at CENTCOM

21:20 Challenges and Lessons at CENTCOM

26:21 Mentorship and Professional Development

34:16 Transition to J2 at CENTCOM

36:34 Introduction to Central Asia Desk

37:05 Building Relationships in Central Asia

38:03 Challenges of Language and Culture

39:16 Innovative Security Cooperation Programs

41:21 Impact of COVID-19 on Operations

42:39 Personal Heritage and Career Impact

44:00 Father's Academic Journey

46:40 Early Life and Cultural Identity

47:51 Deployment to Afghanistan Post-9/11

48:53 Unique Assignment with Special Forces

01:05:37 Transition to MI and Multiple Deployments

01:07:52 Reconnecting with the Intelligence Community

01:08:37 Special Operations Command in Europe

01:09:08 First Country Team Assignment in Malaysia

01:11:20 Challenges with a Difficult Deputy

01:14:22 Leadership and Team Dynamics

01:20:50 Current Role in Korea: NEO Operations

01:39:48 The Importance of Reading and Fiction

01:45:28 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Join me for a conversation with USAF Col. (Ret.) Matt Yocum as we delve into his unique career trajectory, starting from his non-standard background in the Air Force's acquisition and engineering fields. Matt discusses his pivotal assignments, including his time in Israel as part of the Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program and later as an Air Force attaché, where he navigated through significant events like the Second Lebanon War. This episode also explores his role as a Commander's Action Group (CAG) director at CENTCOM, where he was instrumental in providing detailed and narratively rich reports on international engagements. Matt reflects on the importance of storytelling in military communication and its impact on effective diplomacy. The talk also covers his post-military career as a writer of comic books and graphic novels, highlighting his passion for the art form and his current projects, including a biographical graphic novel on a notable Pakistani figure. Throughout the episode, Matt emphasizes the significance of relationship-building, effective communication, and relentless helpfulness in both military and personal endeavors.

Links:

www.Hangar19Consulting.com

www.MattYocum.com

Closet World Kickstarter

Books:

The Twilight War by David Crist

Brief by Joe McCormick

Lawrence in Arabia by Scott Anderson

The New Map by Daniel Jurgen

Power Broker by Robert Caro

The Years of Lyndon Johnson by Robert Caro

The Vision by King, Waltaand Bellaire

Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow by King, Evely and Lopes

Pluto: Urusawa x Tekuza by Nagasaki and Urasawa

Bone by Jeff Smith

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers

00:46 Meet Colonel Matt Yocum

01:15 Colonel Yocum’s Air Force Journey

01:59 The Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program (ESEP)

02:44 Life and Work in Israel

04:42 Challenges and Experiences in Israel

09:01 Language Learning and Cultural Insights

34:58 The Second Lebanon War

39:35 Observations and Responsibilities as an Attache

45:31 Career Transitions and Future Plans

50:37 Arrival in Amman, Jordan

50:46 The New Normal: ISIS Crisis

51:44 Embassy Life and Community

54:02 Building Relationships and Cooperation

55:19 Information Sharing and Collaboration

01:03:34 Training and Equipping the Jordanian Air Force

01:18:44 Commander's Action Group (CAG) Experience

01:37:51 Decision to Stay in CAG

01:39:06 Balancing Family and Duty

01:40:43 Returning to JSO and Preparing for Retirement

01:42:14 Final Assignment and Retirement Ceremony

01:45:37 Reflecting on a Military Career

01:47:30 Challenges and Triumphs in Promotions

01:55:37 Post-Military Career in Comics

02:02:18 The Art of Storytelling in Communication

02:14:07 Recommended Reads and Final Thoughts

Join me for an interview with U.S. Army Colonel Nate Finney, an Army Strategist (FA59), discussing the roles and training of FA59 strategists, their relationship with FAOs, and the importance of building interdisciplinary teams. Finney shares insights from his career, including positions at HQDA, USARPAC, and Indo-Pacific Command, highlighting the need for strategists and FAOs to collaborate effectively. The conversation also explores Finney's involvement in founding writing and strategy-oriented organizations like the Strategy Bridge and the Military Writers Guild, emphasizing writing as a critical tool for professional development. The episode concludes with a discussion on recent changes in U.S.-China relations, China's military modernization, and the strategic challenges faced by the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific region.