WPAOG Podcast

In this episode of the WPAOG Broadcast Network, we sit down with Colonel Anne McClain: astronaut, Army aviator, and West Point graduate of 2002. McClain reflects on the leadership foundations forged at West Point and how those lessons carried her from combat aviation to spaceflight, including spacewalks conducted 250 miles above Earth. Through powerful stories from the cockpit, mission control, and the exterior of the International Space Station, she shares what it means to lead under extreme pressure, manage failure as data, and remain calm, prepared, and decisive when the stakes are highest. 

Colonel Anne McClain was selected as a NASA astronaut in 2013 and currently serves as a colonel in the U.S. Army. A Spokane, Washington native, she graduated from the United States Military Academy with a degree in mechanical/aeronautical engineering in 2002 and went on to earn multiple advanced degrees as a Marshall Scholar. A Master Army Aviator with more than 2,000 flight hours in 20 aircraft, McClain has served as a spaceflight engineer on multiple expeditions aboard the International Space Station and most recently launched as commander of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 mission in March 2025.

Listeners will also hear her moving reflections on carrying West Point’s legacy gold into space, the responsibility of belonging to the Long Gray Line, and what future cadets and officers should know about service, humility, and leadership of character.

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01:38 Embracing Uncertainty and Competence

03:24 Handling Failures and Setbacks

05:54 The Awe of Spacewalks

09:40 The Astronaut Network and Legacy

15:17 Advice for Future Leaders

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Connect with Anne

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In this episode of the WPAOG podcast, we sit down with retired Lieutenant General Dan Karbler to explore his unexpected journey from commanding missile defense operations to working alongside Oscar-winning director Kathryn Bigelow on the national security thriller A House of Dynamite. The film brings cinematic intensity to a simulated missile attack on the U.S., and Karbler’s firsthand expertise shaped everything from the script to the set design, ensuring military authenticity at every turn.

For nearly 37 years, LTG Karbler served our nation in a variety of positions in the United States and around the world. An expert in Air and Missile Defense and Space Operations, he has extensive experience in effectively leading large and complex military commands, conducting operations, requirements and capability development, test and evaluation, and budget formulation. Before retiring from the Army as a Lieutenant General, he led the U.S. Army’s Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), a globally dispersed organization across 23 locations and 11 time zones responsible for providing homeland and regional air and missile defense and space operations.

Listeners will hear how a cold Zoom audition led to a major consulting role, what it takes to get military uniforms and terminology right for film, and how his leadership style aligned seamlessly with Bigelow’s directing approach. Karbler also reflects on what it means to serve, both in uniform and as a parent of two West Point grads, and shares advice for military professionals considering creative second careers. This episode offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the making of a military thriller through the eyes of someone who’s lived it—both on screen and in service.

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“ When those curve balls come at you, or high pressure or complexity comes in, if you don't have that good basic foundation to fall back on, you start to make mistakes. You can get nervous, which is gonna affect your, uh, potential judgment or recommendations or could affect your decisions. So you have got to become the master of your craft. And you do that through repetition. You do that through practice, you do it through rehearsals, you do it by staying current with contemporaries, whether that's reading, listening to a podcast. Sometimes it's just, having a cup of coffee with friends and bouncing some ideas off of each other.”

-LTG (Ret.) Dan Karbler

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(00:09) From General to Hollywood

(03:20) On Set: Authenticity and Technical Advising

(04:51) Behind the Scenes: Working with Kathryn Bigelow

(17:04) Family Legacy: West Point and Military Service

(25:19) Advice for Aspiring Military and Hollywood Careers

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Watch A House of Dynamite on Netflix

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In this episode of the WPAOG podcast, we sit down with West Point graduates Brian Anthony  ’01 and Sean Mullin ’97, filmmakers and former Army officers,  to explore the making of their new documentary Brothers on Three. The film captures more than a championship rugby season; it’s a story of resilience, identity, and brotherhood at West Point. Through the lens of the Army Rugby team, the film examines leadership under pressure and the power of trust, commitment, and love within a team.

Brian Anthony is a West Point graduate who served in the U.S. Army from 2001 to 2010, including as a Ranger and Special Forces Green Beret. Today, he’s a screenwriter whose credits include CW’s Kung Fu, Constantine, The Night Shift, and Station 19. His comic book short Terps was featured in the SOLDIER STORIES anthology for Veterans Day 2022. Sean Mullin, also a West Point grad, served as an Army officer in Germany before finishing his service as a Captain in the New York Army National Guard, where he led soldiers at Ground Zero after 9/11. He later transitioned into filmmaking and comedy, building a successful career as an independent director and producer.

Listeners will hear how Sean and Brian translated their shared experience on the rugby field into a powerful film narrative, the emotional revelations captured during filming, and the surprising leadership outcomes among Army rugby alumni. They also discuss the challenges of independent documentary filmmaking, from funding to field logistics, and reflect on the evolution of West Point’s culture of masculinity and emotional strength. The episode is a behind-the-scenes look at a deeply personal and cinematic tribute to the long-lasting bonds formed at the Academy.

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 ”One of the more kind of impressive stats that came out during filming, the typical West Point cadet has a 1% chance of getting promoted to the rank of general officer. But if you play rugby, you've got a 3% chance. So that's a 300% Delta, which is a massive Delta statistical anomaly. It's not even close, not double, it's triple. And I'll be honest with you, I started crunching more numbers, it's probably higher than three. So I feel confident saying that we've been, we've had a couple guys just get promoted recently, too. It's an incredible thing, and that was definitely something we wanted to investigate with this film is what's in the sauce. Why is that? I do feel like that's not just in the military chain of promotions. I do feel like also in the civilian world, you see a lot of business leaders and you see a lot of entrepreneurs who have a rugby background because again, there is a certain element of risk to this sport. And I think that translates well into people who maybe metabolize risk in a different way in the business world.”
 

-Sean Mullin, Class of ’97

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(01:20) The Message Behind Brothers on Three

(05:45) The Long Road to Making This Story Happen

(08:30) Discovering Unexpected Moments of Brotherhood

(14:20) Community Reactions and Premiere Plans

(21:40) The Surprising Stats Behind Rugby and Leadership

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Find where Brothers on Three Playing Near You

Connect with Sean

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https://www.westpointaog.org/news/podcast-from-ground-zero-to-hollywood-director-with-sean-mullin-97-award-winning-filmmaker/

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In this episode of the WPAOG podcast, we welcome COL (R) James Lynch, MD West Point Class of  ’89, a retired military physician and national expert in Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB). A promising treatment for PTSD and anxiety. With over three decades of military service, including 20 years in special operations, Dr. Lynch shares his journey from Army physician to mental health innovator.

Dr. Jim Lynch is a physician and mental health advocate who established a practice in Maryland in 2021 after serving 31 years in Army medicine. Board-certified in Family and Sports Medicine, he’s treated thousands of trauma-affected patients and pioneered SGB as a powerful treatment for PTSD and anxiety. Dr. Lynch has presented internationally, published multiple peer-reviewed studies, and served as a U.S. Olympic Team physician for over a decade. He continues to champion access to effective trauma care for veterans, civilians, and underserved populations globally.

Listeners will gain insight into how SGB works to reset the fight-or-flight system, its remarkable results among veterans, and why traditional PTSD treatments often fall short. Dr. Lynch also discusses the broader applications of SGB, including for survivors of sexual trauma, and how he’s taking this treatment global, reaching communities in crisis like Ukraine.

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(00:32) What is Stella Ganglion Blocks (SGB)

(06:43) Discovery and Evolution of SGB for PTSD

(12:27)  Dr. Lynch's Journey into Medicine

(16:56) Advice for PTSD and Anxiety Sufferers

(23:06) Challenges and Accessibility of SGB

(29:20) Dr. Lynch's Humanitarian Efforts 

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Connect with Dr. James

Learn more about SGB

Learn more about WPAOG’s Veteran Services for West Point grads

Information provided in this podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. No physician-patient relationship is created by this web site, podcast, or its use. Neither the West Point Association of Graduates nor its employees, nor any contributor to this web site or podcast, makes any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use.

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In this episode of the WPAOG Podcast, host Jamie Enos sits down with Matthew Caldwell, CEO of the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves and WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx. Matt brings a unique leadership background shaped by his service as a U.S. Army Captain, his time at Goldman Sachs, and nearly a decade as CEO of the Florida Panthers, where he helped lead the team to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships.

Caldwell, a 2002 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, also earned an MBA from Northwestern Kellogg School of Management and a J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law. He served five years in the U.S. Army, conducting combat operations in Iraq and peacekeeping in Kosovo. His business leadership has been widely recognized, including being named a South Florida Business Journal Ultimate CEO and receiving multiple “Forty under 40” awards. At just 36, he became the youngest CEO in U.S. pro sports when he took the helm of the Florida Panthers in 2016.

This conversation explores the intersection of military discipline, entrepreneurial thinking, and executive leadership. Tune in to hear how Caldwell navigates organizational alignment, builds resilient cultures, and prepares to lead two professional basketball teams into a new era of growth and performance.

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(01:31) Leadership Lessons from Military to Sports

(03:38) Building from West Point Foundations

(08:24) Mentorship and Support from the Long Gray Line

(09:53) Entrepreneurial Ventures in Sports

(13:05) Advice on Career Pivots and Transitions

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Connect with Matthew

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In this episode of the WPAOG Podcast, we’re joined by Erin Helle, AOG’s Executive Director of Strategic Development and Partnerships, about the bold efforts underway to transform Highland Falls and reforge the connection between the West Point community and its neighboring town. Erin shares the mission and vision behind the Hudson Valley Program, how AOG is investing in long-term community investment, and why this work is as strategic as it is deeply personal.

From developing the CONNECT after-school program to forging productive partnerships with local leadership and developers, Erin outlines how trust building, infrastructure investment, and shared purpose are reshaping the Gateway to West Point. With a blend of authenticity and strategic insight, she reflects on what it takes to lead sustainable, community-first development and what success will look like five years from now.

Listeners will gain a grounded perspective on place-based leadership, relationship-driven progress, and the long-term impact of aligning institutional values with community needs. This episode is essential listening for professionals working at the intersection of civic development, education, and strategic partnerships.

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• (00:19) The Mission and Vision of the Hudson Valley Program
• (03:15) The Connect Program: Impact and Benefits
• (09:32) Key Partnerships and Collaborations
• (18:56) Breaking Through Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
• (23:26) The  Future Vision and Long-Term Goals

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Connect with Erin

Connect with Jamie

Hudson Valley Program: https://www.westpointaog.org/connections/wpaog-hvp-overview/

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In this episode of the WPAOG Podcast, we sit down with LTC (R) Pete Selleck ’77, 2025 Distinguished Graduate Award recipient, to explore his extraordinary journey from West Point to global business leadership. With a legacy rooted in service, Selleck shares how his cadet experience shaped his values, influenced his leadership approach, and fostered lifelong connections. From commanding troops to mentoring the next generation, he reflects on the enduring power of purpose and community.

Selleck is a monumental example of distinguished service to America across the private, governmental, and non-profit sectors. Commissioned into the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, he served in the 4th Engineer Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, before transitioning to the U.S. Army Reserve. He then began an extraordinary 35-year career at Michelin, culminating in his role as chairman and president of Michelin North America. His efforts were critical in supporting the Department of Defense during the Iraq War, supplying combat-grade tires for the MRAP vehicle—a contribution that saved countless lives. Beyond his corporate achievements, Selleck has dedicated decades to supporting West Point through admissions, alumni leadership, endowments, and community service. As LTG (R) Walter Ulmer ’52 said, “Few graduates in our history have amassed such a record of broad consequential achievement.”

Listeners will come away with timeless leadership lessons on humility, accountability, and mission-driven work—from building elite teams to aligning personal purpose with organizational impact. This episode is essential listening for current and future leaders in military, corporate, and non-profit spheres alike.

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Key Quote:

“ I knew that West Point really put an emphasis on leading people, and that turned out to be exactly right, and the leadership experience as a cadet, the things that you do as a young officer, as a platoon leader, as a company commander, those things are unparalleled. The type of responsibility you get as a 20-year-old is just amazing, and that just played out big time as I went into my Michelin career that it was just, you become a very natural leader because you do it. You can't learn leadership in a book. You have to actually do it. You've gotta make mistakes. You've gotta see successes, you've gotta watch other people. And that really played a huge role in my subsequent life after the Army. But I will say that being a company commander in the Army was probably the most challenging leadership job that I ever had. It was big, big responsibility.” 

-LTC (R) Clyde A.“Pete” Selleck III, class of 1977

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• (00:21) Continuing the  Family Legacy at West Point
• (04:53) Leadership Lessons from West Point to Michelin
• (09:38) Defining Service to the Nation
• (12:52) The  50-Year Affiliation Program and Legacy
• (26:31) Lending Support to the West Point Admissions
• (30:40) Advice for Future Leaders

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2025 Distinguished Graduate Award Recipients

Connect with Pete

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In this episode of the WPAOG Podcast, we sit down with Mark Bieger, President and CEO of the West Point Association of Graduates, member of the Class of 1991, and West Point parent. From his early leadership development as a cadet to commanding troops in combat and now leading one of the Academy’s most mission-driven organizations, Bieger shares thoughtful reflections on service, connection, and building community across generations of West Point graduates. His leadership journey underscores a profound respect for tradition and a clear-eyed vision for innovation and impact.

Bieger’s path is rooted in nearly 29 years of service in the U.S. Army, where he commanded at every level from platoon to brigade including combat operations in Iraq. He later brought his strategic acumen to higher education, serving in senior leadership roles at the University of South Carolina and Louisiana State University. Now, as CEO of WPAOG, he leads with a commitment to transparency, mission alignment, and serving both the Academy and the Long Gray Line. His approach blends operational excellence with deep empathy and an unwavering belief in the power of connection.

Listeners will gain insight into how Bieger balances tradition with innovation, how AOG programs are creating powerful generational bonds, and how the organization defines success through the eyes of its graduates. This episode is a must-listen for leaders in nonprofit strategy, alumni engagement, and anyone who values mission-first leadership grounded in service.

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Key Quote:

“ My one request of our graduates, that I repeat over and over, is to be connected. Connect with your classmates, if you haven't in years, connect, reconnect, strengthen that bond that exists in the class. Connect with your alma mater. Connect with our great Academy. And then in whatever way inspires you, connect with your Association. I think those connections will be rewarding, they'll make you feel really good about the path that you've been on, and it will inspire you for thoughts about what to do in the future.”

-Mark Bieger, WPAOG President & CEO

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Episode Timestamps:

• (00:53) West Point Association of Graduates: Mission and Vision
• (03:18) Defining Success and Leadership Principles
• (07:11) Balancing Tradition with Innovation
• (12:54) Supporting the Academy and Developing Leaders
• (17:22) Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement
• (23:38) Encouraging Connections and Final Thoughts

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Connect with Mark

Learn More about WPAOG

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In this episode of the WPAOG Podcast, we sit down with Kathleen Widmer, class of 1983, and a 2025 Distinguished Graduate Award honoree. From helping launch the Women’s Lacrosse team as a cadet to leading in both the military and private sector, Widmer shares powerful stories of perseverance, leadership, and service. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to others and a belief that real leadership starts with humility and humanity.

Widmer’s path is defined by lifelong service and standout leadership — from breaking barriers as one of West Point’s early women graduates and a pioneering field artillery battery commander, to shaping healthcare access as a senior executive at Johnson & Johnson. She was instrumental in forming the Women’s Lacrosse Team at the Academy, led veteran hiring programs in corporate America, and helped restore the Wounded Warrior Project as board chair. Through it all, she’s remained a committed supporter of West Point, exemplifying the values of the Long Gray Line across every chapter of her life.

Listeners will gain insight into how West Point prepared her for command and crisis leadership, how she led teams through the pandemic and major corporate transformations, and why she believes the most effective leaders lead with their humanity. This episode is a must-listen for professionals, leaders, and cadets who want to learn what it truly means to lead with impact.

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Key Quote:

“ The other thing that West Point really did for me that helped me in industry is you build stamina at West Point. You don't get to opt out of hard stuff. You have to do everything. You have to get up every day early. You have to follow a schedule that puts too many things in front of you to do, then you can actually accomplish, and you have to filter all the time what's important and focus on those things. And, you know, being a senior leader in industry is the same. If you try to do everything instead of prioritizing and filtering, and figuring out. What's important, you, you just sort of run yourself in circles. And honestly, don't accomplish much. But there's a, there's a stamina that you build at West Point, and it's the same kind of stamina that I think you have to have in industry to be, every 30 minutes somebody's giving you dense, complex information that you need to make a decision about. And then 30 minutes later, it's a completely different topic, and they're doing the same thing. And then it's the next 30 minutes, and it's sort of like you need to train for it, and West Point prepares you for that.”

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Episode Timestamps:

• (00:50) Following the Family Tradition and Decision to Attend West Point
• (03:51) Kathleen’s First Days at West Point
• (08:00) Founding of the Army Women's Lacrosse Team
• (15:24) Leadership Lessons from West Point
• (19:07) Transition to Civilian Career and Leadership in Industry
• (33:09) Advice for Current Cadets

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Connect with Kathleen

View all of the 2025 Distinguished Graduate Award Nominees  

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On this episode of the WPOG podcast, LTG (R) Reynold Hoover, CEO of LA28 and West Point class of 1983, unpacks the leadership, planning, and execution strategies powering the largest Olympic and Paralympic Games in history.

As the CEO of LA28, the Organizing Committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, Hoover oversees the planning, delivery, and execution of the Games since June of 2024. Hoover has held various senior civilian roles in the U.S. federal government and leadership positions in the U.S. military, including as a three-star Lieutenant General. He has led the United States through some of its most complex logistics operations and was awarded the highest non-combat award in the Defense Department. Hoover graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1983 and holds master’s degrees in Public and Private Management from Birmingham Southern College and in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. He also received his law degree from The Catholic University of America’s Columbus School of Law.

Whether you're interested in leadership, logistics, or legacy-building, this episode offers unmatched perspective into how the Olympics are evolving—and why LA28 is setting a new global benchmark.

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Key Quote:

“   It is the reason I came outta retirement. And got off the couch because, on the 2nd of July, 1979, I took an oath on the plain at West Point, like many West Pointers before and after me have done. To a life of public service, and I couldn't think of a better way to capstone a career of over 35 years in uniform and another four as a cadet, so close to 40 years, to come back and unite the world around sport and unite the nation around sport and unite all of Angelenos and Southern California around sport movement.”

-LTG (R) Reynold Hoover, CEO of LA28

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• (00:18) Reynold's Military Career Highlights
• (02:33) Transition to LA 28 Olympics
• (06:22) Challenges and Scope of LA 28
• (09:49) Applying Military Principles in Olympic Planning
• (22:28)  Balancing Tradition and Innovation
• (28:00) Why LA28 is “America’s Games”:

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Connect with Hoover

Learn more about LA28

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