A Better Peace: The War Room Podcast

Melvyn Leffler, a prominent historian of American foreign policy, is back in the studio for part two of his discussion with host Carrie Lee. Their conversation continues examining the decision-making process leading to the invasion of Iraq. Leffler's insights shed light on the internal dynamics of the Bush administration, highlighting the distrust and dysfunction among key players despite their extensive foreign policy experience. The discussion also explores the role of credibility in the Bush administration’s strategy development and strategic messaging to allies and partners. The goal of the exchange is to offer valuable lessons for the next generation of military leaders and strategists, emphasizing the importance of careful analysis, clear communication, and a nuanced understanding of the limits of American power.

Melvyn Leffler, a prominent historian of American foreign policy, is in the studio offering a fresh perspective on the Iraq War. Leffler joins host Carrie Lee challenging some conventional wisdoms surrounding the war, arguing that the George W. Bush administration was not intent on invading Iraq from day one. He makes the case that there were genuine fears among American policymakers about Saddam Hussein's weapons of mass destruction. He highlights the role of fear, power, and hubris in the decision-making process. Their conversation examines the extensive interviews and archival research Leffler conducted, and offers a nuanced understanding of one of the most consequential foreign policy decisions of the 21st century. https://warroom.armywarcollege.edu/podcasts/iraq-insights-1

In November 1944, Japan launched thousands of balloons carrying incendiary bombs across the Pacific, aiming to set fire to American forests and divert resources from the war effort. While the campaign caused minimal damage and few casualties, it highlights the vulnerability of the U.S. homeland to attack. To discuss lessons from this historical event, the current state of homeland defense, and how we might better prepare for the future, George Schwartz and Bert Tussing sat down with host Darrell Driver. Their conversation emphasizes the need for a whole-of-nation approach to preparedness and the importance of collaboration between government, military, and private sectors.

There is a global trend of increased politicization of the military in eroding democracies, some of which are allies of the United States. Risa Brooks joins host Carrie Lee to shed light on the evolving dynamics between political leaders and the military. Brooks discusses the trend of political leaders using the military for their own gain. She emphasizes the importance of military elites resisting this politicization to uphold democratic principles and prevent the military's use for partisan purposes. The discussion also underscores the crucial role of professional military education in instilling a deep understanding of democratic norms and ethical boundaries in military service. The episode aims to raise awareness about this critical issue and encourage military professionals to uphold their commitment to democratic values.

The American intelligence community (IC) is a complex network of 18 different agencies constantly vying for authority and resources. This competition, along with the ongoing effort to balance civilian and military organizations within the IC, is the focus of today's discussion. Dr. Jeff Rogg, a senior research fellow at the Global and National Security Institute, joins podcast editor Ron Granieri to explore the history of the U.S. intelligence system, highlighting its civilian-military dynamics and the critical balance between national security and civil liberties. They delve into the roles of key figures like William Donovan and examine the challenges faced by various Directors of Central Intelligence as they navigate the intricate relationship between military and civilian agencies. This insightful conversation also raises questions about potential reforms needed within the intelligence community, especially considering the growing capabilities of surveillance technology and the need to preserve individual…

The recent surge of coups d'etat in Africa holds significant implications for U.S. foreign policy. Dr. Naunihal Singh, author of Seizing Power: The Strategic Logic of Military Coups, joins host Carrie Lee to discuss his extensive research on this topic. They explore the definition and historical context of coups, examining the intricate dynamics involved. Dr. Singh's insights, particularly on the role of mid-grade military officers, offer a unique perspective on this complex issue, crucial for those interested in civil-military relations and the future of democracy.

The Army is actively seeking innovative programs and ideas to address the recruitment and retention challenges it faces. One such idea is the newly designed Blended Education Program (BEP) at the U.S. Army War College. The BEP is a hybrid program that combines the best aspects of the residential program, including staff rides to Gettysburg, Washington D.C., and New York City, with the remote flexibility of the distance education program, all within a 10-month academic year. It aims to help retain talented senior officers who wish to remain at their current duty stations while furthering their professional military education. Carl Benander, an AY24 BEP graduate, and Dr. Mark Duckenfield, the director of the program, joined podcast editor Ron Granieri to discuss the program's early successes and lessons learned. The BEP offers a mix of synchronous and asynchronous learning, allowing students to interact with each other and their instructors in real time. Although still in its early stages, the BEP has been a…

Military service provides unique education and experience opportunities not readily available elsewhere, a key selling point for recruiting an all-volunteer force. But do those experiences that make service members valuable in the military translate to success in political service? This is one of the questions Danielle Lupton explores in her research and book, Reputation for Resolve. She joins host Carrie Lee to discuss the role of reputation in international politics and the impact of veterans in politics, Congress, and even the White House. It's the latest episode in our Civil-Military Relations Center speaker series.

On August 8, 2024, retired Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, who served as the Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe from 2014 to 2017, visited Carlisle. Michael Neiberg had the pleasure of sitting down with him for a conversation about his latest book, Future War and the Defence of Europe. Their conversation was held at a public presentation at the Midtown Scholar Bookstore in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. We're excited to share this bonus episode of their conversation with you, thanks to the generosity of the bookstore in sharing the audio recording of the event.

A new academic year brings a new lineup of speakers to the U.S. Army War College's Civil-Military Relations Center. Host Carrie Lee welcomes Cameron McCoy to kick off the season with a dynamic discussion of McCoy's new book, Contested Valor: African American Marines in the Age of Power, Protest, and Tokenism. They delve into the experiences of the legendary black Marines of Montford Point and explore the broader context of race relations in the U.S. military. This compelling conversation sheds light on the nation's historical shortcomings regarding racism while acknowledging the progress made and emphasizing the ongoing need for change.

Last week, the U.S. Army War College welcomed Sir Hew Strachan, a distinguished British military historian and accomplished author. He graciously took the time to sit down with Michael Neiberg in the studio for another episode of our "On Writing" series. During their conversation, Sir Hew shared his journey to becoming one of the foremost experts on the First World War. They explored the significance of historical perspective in contemporary analysis, delved into his extensive studies of Clausewitz and other strategists, and discussed how appearing on television prompted him to think about war in more distilled terms. This engaging dialogue showcases the insights of two skilled and passionate historians.

Tom Spahr is back in the studio with another insightful discussion focused on data management, refinement, and exploitation within the military. He is joined by CW4 Kelsey Gibson, a senior technical advisor with years of experience in data and digital modernization in the special operations community. Together, they examine the challenges of developing data literacy across all leadership levels. They also discuss the importance of effectively sorting and filtering large data sets, as well as building the trust necessary to leverage AI and automation for faster decision-making. This conversation offers valuable insights into a crucial topic—tune in to hear their perspectives and share your thoughts! Tom's podcast episode with Alex Miller can be found here

This week, we have one final episode in our "Back to School" series highlighting another special program at the U.S. Army War College. The Advanced Regional Studies (ARS) program offers opportunities for students to meet the senior decision- and policy-makers of our allied and partner nations on their own turf. Daniel Krebs, the director of ARS, is in the studio to explain how a select number of students will travel abroad for study. He joins podcast editor Ron Granieri to discuss how students gain invaluable knowledge and understanding of the culture and mindset of these nations and their leaders by spending time in their countries and meeting with them face-to-face. For more information about the Advanced Regional Studies program you can contact the director, Dr. Daniel Krebs daniel.krebs@armywarcollege.edu.

Last week, we noted the next few conversations veer into some of the "inside baseball" of how the Army War College educates strategic leaders. Episodes like this are mainly to inform incoming resident students about options available to them, but other listeners might be interested in getting some insights into the inner workings of senior joint professional military education. Host Tom Spahr sits down with the directors of three such opportunities: Bob Bradford, director of the Enterprise Management Enrichment Specialization (EM), Jerad Harper, director of the Joint Warfighting Program (JWP) and Mike Stinchfield, director of the National Security Simulation Exercise of Competition, Crisis, and Conflict (NSEC3). Their conversation examines the unique opportunities each of these enrichment and enhancement programs affords participants as they continue their growth towards becoming better critical thinkers, trusted advisers, and strategic thought leaders in the joint, interagency, intergovernmental, and…

A BETTER PEACE continues its Dusty Shelves series with "How a Homing Pigeon Saved the Lost Battalion of World War I." Frank Blazich and Jacqueline E. Whitt discuss the means of communication available during World War I and why homing pigeons were so successful despite the emergence of new technologies such as the telephone. This was shown clearly in the case a carrier pigeon, who in October 2018 flew the message that stopped the friendly artillery barrage raining down on the Lost Battalion. Given the risks associated with modern information technologies, are there roles for non-tech means on the future battlefield? May we see pigeons once again used in war?

A BETTER PEACE presents "How Changeover of Flag Officer Commanders Impacts Their Organizations." Command at the strategic level is challenging. Commanders are leading large organizations that are regionally (even globally) distributed, perform a widely diverse range of missions and tasks, or are overseeing the execution of military campaigns. They must address both short-term mission accomplishment and the long-term needs of their organizations, services, or the joint force. But the typical commander only serves for two to three years, not always sufficient time to shape the long-term future of their commands. Addressing how this routine changeover of leadership influences the organization, for good and bad, are two officers who have served in multiple four-star commands -- U.S. Army colonels Bob Bradford and Matt Coburn, both now serving as faculty instructors at the U.S. Army War College. A BETTER PEACE Editor-in-Chief Jacqueline E. Whitt moderates.

A BETTER PEACE presents "On Holding the Enemy Accountable: Customs of Retaliation from the Civil War." Lorien Foote and Jacqueline E. Whitt discuss how civilized nations maintained discipline in their forces prior to the emergence of international laws and norms of warfare. During the Civil War period, the answer was the customary practice of retaliation, which provides wronged combatants the opportunity to redress unlawful conduct by an opponent. How and why did this work, and to what extent did this practice reinforce good order of discipline?

A BETTER PEACE presents "How do Organizations Change After Adopting AI?" A trio of U.S. Army War College students -- Tom Spahr, Chris Chase, and Andre Abadie -- visited businesses and other organizations from around the country to find out the impacts of incorporating AI into their practices. They discuss their findings and implications for organizations in the U.S. military planning to adopt the same technologies. A BETTER PEACE Editor-in-Chief Jacqueline E. Whitt moderates.

A BETTER PEACE welcomes Major General Jessica Wright, U.S. Army retired, who served over six years as The 50th Adjutant General of Pennsylvania and subsequently as an Under Secretary in the Department of Defense. She relays her experiences as a female soldier at a time when traditional gender roles were still strong but there were opportunities to break barriers. What inspired her and who enabled her throughout her career? What insights can today's soldiers glean?

A BETTER PEACE presents "FICINT: Envisioning Future War Through Fiction & Intelligence." August Cole demonstrates how fiction writing is a tool to better analyze and develop war scenarios from friendly, enemy, and neutral perspectives. Combining fiction writing with intelligence can help to raise self-awareness and challenge one's own assumptions while articulating complex concepts about future warfare using tried and true writing techniques that emphasis tension, conflict, and clarity. A BETTER PEACE Editor-in-Chief Jacqueline E. Whitt moderates.

A BETTER PEACE presents "How Competitors Use Technology to Shape the Indo-Pacific," Renee DiResta, Jonathan Reiber, and Jacqueline E. Whitt look at how technology is shaping societies and the environment. The Internet revolution is only 36 years old but has made an immeasurable impacts on both daily life and the balance of global power. The U.S.'s competitors are taking fullest advantage. How so, and what does this mean for the U.S.?

A BETTER PEACE presents "Hypercompetition and Transient Advantage," another in a series on the Indo-Pacific Region. Dana Tucker and Nate Freier argue that the U.S. can no longer assume a persistent competitive advantage due to the pacing threats in the region, and therefore should exercise a more adaptable, versatile strategy that seeks to hold temporary advantages. Why is this so, and what does this mean for the U.S. and its partners? WAR ROOM's Buck Haberichter moderates.

A BETTER PEACE presents "Security in the Indo-Pacific Region: The View from Tokyo," another in our series of releases on the region's Emerging Environment. In this episode, Jeffrey Hornung and Jacqueline E. Whitt discuss the Japanese perspective of regional security, the US-Japanese alliance, Japan's security relationships with other regional partners, and the top threats and challenges to Japanese security interests.

A BETTER PEACE presents "The Meaning of 'Partnership' in the Indo-Pacific Region," the second in our series of releases on the region's Emerging Environment. In this episode, guests Tanvi Madan and Lindsey Ford sit down with Jacqueline E. Whitt to discuss why and how the U.S. works with its partners on issues from deterrence to proliferation to security to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief is a critical element of strategy. But these alliances and partnerships require plenty of care and maintenance.

A BETTER PEACE presents "Demographics, Aging, and Security in the Indo-Pacific Region," the first in a series of releases on the Emerging Environment in the Indo-Pacific Region, produced in collaboration with the United States Military Academy at West Point’s Department of Social Sciences as part of the 2019 Senior Conference. This episode focuses on how demographic change relates to security in the region, but the conclusions might be counterintuitive or vary depending on the locations in question. What are the implications for U.S. interests?

A BETTER PEACE presents "An Unbeaten Roman General: Scipio Africanus," the sequel to a previous episode on the renowned Carthaginian general Hannibal. This episode gives the story of Hannibal's opponent in the Battle of Zama, Scipio Africanus, whose brilliant strategy and extraordinary leadership made him one of the greatest military commanders of his time. U.S. Army War College historian GK Cunningham tells the story with WAR ROOM Editor-in-Chief Andrew A. Hill.

In "The European Union Looks Forward II: Developing EU Capabilities," A BETTER PEACE welcomes special guest Aili Ribulis from the European Union's delegation to the United States to discuss advances and initiatives that the EU is undertaking to modernize its capabilities. As Ms. Ribulis reports, several major initiatives are underway while many others are in the works, but there is much work left to be done. What are the challenges and their impact? U.S. Army War College Director of European Studies Darrell Driver moderates.

A BETTER PEACE presents "How to Tell the Story of a War: The OIF Study," retelling the experiences of planning, researching, and ultimately writing the recently released 1300-page two-volume report discussing events and insights covering the period 2003-2011. A BETTER PEACE Editor Jacqueline E. Whitt sits down with report co-editor Frank Sobchak and author Jim Powell to find out what it took to do the study and why it was done. The study is now available at the USAWC Publications website.

In "Beyond Task Force Smith: 'National' Unpreparedness for War in Korea," Mike Lynch tells the rest of the story behind the initially unsuccessful U.S. intervention in Korea. More than a failure to have trained combat formations at the ready, Lynch shows how unprepared the nation was to man, equip, and sustain forces for combat in an unexpected theater. Does the U.S. face similar circumstances now, with a war-weary nation seeking peace dividends? What are the implications for the nation being prepared for the next fight?

In "Forecasting the South Africa Elections," Dan Hampton and Chris Wyatt review the political landscape since the parliamentary elections of eighteen months earlier. Trends toward up and coming political parties have stalled a bit while the more established African National Congress is rebranding itself. What do Dan and Chris think will happen in the elections and thereafter, and what might it mean for the U.S.?

A BETTER PEACE welcomes General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith to the studio to discuss his perspectives on strategic leadership and balancing continuity with the need for change. The British Army has a very long history, and General Carleton-Smith addresses the importance of remembering and maintaining that history, especially today with emerging views that robust land-based forces and capabilities are no longer relevant or necessary. Decision making at the strategic level, therefore, balances the past, present, and future of the force while synthesizing military conceptions of risk, success, and failure with those of the political leaders. A BETTER PEACE Editor Jacqueline E. Whitt moderates.

A BETTER PEACE presents "Transatlantic Trade: More Important than Ever" which examines the current state of trade between the U.S. and Europe. Johan Eliasson and Darrell Driver show that transatlantic trade remains many times greater and much more important politically than trade between the U.S. and China. However, as relations between the U.S. and Europe become more complex, sustaining trade may become more difficult.

A BETTER PEACE presents "Russian View of the West: It's Complicated," a conversation between Ambassador John Tefft, US Ambassador to Russia from 2014-2017 and U.S. Army War College Director of Eurasian Studies Bob Hamilton. Having served in Moscow following Russia's annexation of Crimea, AMB Tefft provides background and insights into Russia's strategic interests and challenges. Although many are looking to Russia through an adversarial lens, AMB Tefft offers some contrarian views based on his experience and observations.

A BETTER PEACE presents "Reliving the Civil War Through Battlefield Staff Rides," Christian Keller and Jacqueline E. Whitt They also discuss the best way to approach visiting a Civil War battlefield to get the most out of the experience -- preparing for the visit through reading and study; walking the ground; and post-visit reflection

A BETTER PEACE presents "Remote Warfare: Is Relying on Local Forces a Good Long-Term Option?" Special guest Emily Knowles of the Oxford Research Group's Remote Warfare Program and A BETTER PEACE Editor Jacqueline E. Whitt explore the implications of NATO's on-going shift from traditional large-scale conventional operations toward smaller-scale unconventional operations ("remote warfare") involving local militias or groups. Are the beliefs that remote warfare is a cleaner or cheaper form of warfare true or mere myth? What are the other effects?

A BETTER PEACE presents "Russia, Great Power Competition, & Politics of Hybrid War" where Mitchell Orenstein and Darrell Driver discuss the history of great power dynamics and interests in Europe before the European Union. How does the current European structure disadvantage Russia? Therefore, what is Russia's alternative vision and how do her current actions and policies enable that vision?

A BETTER PEACE presents "Beyond Thucydides: Herodotus, Xenophon & Understanding War," Rob Farley and Jacqueline E. Whitt discuss the relevant and lasting impacts of two ancient Greek historians and writers not named Thucydides. Ironically, Herodotus and Xenophon were historically viewed as more important and relevant. How so, why did this change, and what modern insights can these two great writers provide contemporary leaders?

A BETTER PEACE presents "Know thy Enemy: Osama bin Laden & the Rise of the Non-State Actor," the latest in our Great Captains series in which we present the story of a contemporary villain whose actions have had a lasting impact on the character of war. Bin Laden's actions, beginning at Afghanistan during the Soviet occupation, would eventually contribute to the prominence of non-state actors on the global stage. What can we learn from this story?

A BETTER PEACE presents the next episode in the Great Captains series, welcoming Dr. Bill Johnsen to the studio to tell the story of Chief of Staff of the Army George C. Marshall Jr. Undeniably, Marshall was a tremendous strategic leader who presided over the U.S.'s national war effort in World War II, while his professional character and willingness to speak truth to power are legendary. But is this enough to warrant the title of 'great captain'? Listen in to find out.

A BETTER PEACE welcomes Ambassador John Campbell to the studio to discuss the upcoming Nigerian elections and describe the very complex political and social landscape in Nigeria. Contrary to the mythical 'north-south' divide, Nigeria comprises about 350 different ethnic groups and languages such that being Muslim or Christian is just one differentiating factor. With 20,000 candidates vying for political office on the 16th of February, this weekend could signal a significant change in direction for the country.

A BETTER PEACE presents "Why Does the Media Cover Stories from Some Countries ... and not Others?" about how the location of a news event affects its newsworthiness, and therefore if and how long the event is covered. Explaining why is this so and the implications on strategists and the public are U.S. Army War College post-doctoral fellow Amanda Cronkhite and A BETTER PEACE Editor Jacqueline E. Whitt.

In "Civil-Military Relations & the Dangers of Being a Highly Trusted Institution," Marybeth Ulrich and Jacqueline E. Whitt place society's present-day respect for its military in context. The U.S. Constitution was constructed on principles of checks and balances and key civil-military norms have come about as a result. What are the risks when the military's high esteem is out of balance with other government institutions?

In "Intellectual Property Rights & National Security," Rob Farley and Jacqueline E. Whitt discuss the legal and normative frameworks to manage and protect a nation's intellectual property (IP). In today's competitive environment, IP that a military leverages is critical for sustaining competitive advantage, but there are significant challenges from competing commercial interests to adversaries who take different approaches to IP rights. What's the impact on national security?

On the Anniversary of the start of the Tet Offensive of 1968, A BETTER PEACE welcomes retired U.S. Ambassador Jim Bullington to provide his "Reflections on the Huế City Massacre" of 1968. Bullington tells his own story, and that of his wife, Tuy Cam, and also explores that consequences of the battle, occupation, and mass violence. How did Americans and their South Vietnamese allies respond to the Battle of Hue and how did the Tet Offensive affect the conduct of the war?

A BETTER PEACE presents "Roles (and Perils) of Being a Watchdog: The Press and Government" about the natural tensions between government and the media. While a free and independent media is a hallmark of freedom and provides an important check against government power, tensions can manifest in intimidation and violence against members of the press. U.S. Army War College post-doctoral fellow Amanda Cronkhite discusses the implications of these tension with A BETTER PEACE Editor Jacqueline E. Whitt.

A BETTER PEACE continues its Great Captains series with a look at the strategic team of Generals Robert E. Lee and Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson. Lee was a great strategic thinker at all levels of war; Jackson proved to be an exceptional field commander and strategic advisor to Lee. Each independently earned consideration of the title of Great Captain, their symbiotic relationship proved very powerful until Jackson's death. Presenting this story is U.S. Army War College Professor of History Christian Keller, moderated by A BETTER PEACE Editor Jacqueline E. Whitt.

A BETTER PEACE presents "John Warden and an Enemy as a System," as Clay Chun and Jacqueline E. Whitt discuss airpower theorist John Warden III and his approaches to modeling an enemy force. The five rings represented classes of targets and their relationship to each other, such that striking targets closer to the model's center would lead to greater effects. What are the uses and implications of applying this theory?

A BETTER PEACE presents "Leading and Managing Change: More than Just a Process," where War College professors Tom Galvin and Buck Haberichter discuss challenges and concepts of change in military organizations that go beyond what is addressed in the popular change management literature. Why is change hard in the military, and what are tools and concepts that leaders can use to enhance their chances of success?

A BETTER PEACE presents "What do you do with Force After You Win?" Wayne Lee, the Doud Distinguished Professor of History at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Dr. Jacqueline E. Whitt, U.S. Army War College Professor of Strategy discuss how the transition from conflict to post-conflict depends greatly on the cultures of the combatants involved. Expectations of both conquerors and conquered have evolved from pre-industrial times to present, shaping the ends of warfare. Therefore, what are the proper post-conflict roles of militaries?

In "A 'Big Data' Approach to Winning the Asymmetric Fight," A BETTER PEACE welcomes Jacob Shapiro from Princeton U. to discuss a challenge to conventional wisdom in conflict -- that the combatant bringing greater power, applying it intelligently, and controlling the most territory are more likely to achieve their political outcomes. Asymmetric warfare emphasizes winning at local levels. How can strategic leaders roll up hundreds or thousands of local level successes and convert it into political success? WAR ROOM Editor-in-Chief Andrew A. Hill moderates.