In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact , we welcome Colonel John Gregory, Deputy Head of the West Point Department of English and World Languages. Colonel Gregory shares his extensive background, including his roles at West Point, his education, and his experiences in Taiwan and China. Ever wondered how studying 18th‑century Chinese law feeds into modern military insight? To draw these connections, Gregory shares stories of his Voice of America Mandarin media debut and archival ...
Jun 16, 2025•43 min•Season 3Ep. 5
Welcome to another episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact podcast. Join Brigadier General Shane Reeves, Dean of the United States Military Academy at West Point, as he hosts an all-star panel discussion exploring the crucial topics of mentorship and leadership across the military and business. Featuring insights from notable professionals such as financial executive and former Deputy National Security Advisor Dina Powell McCormick, Senator Dave McCormick, Oscar-winning producer Brian Gr...
May 07, 2025•56 min•Season 3Ep. 4
In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, we sit down with Army Lacrosse Coach Joe Alberici as he discusses his 20-year tenure at West Point, the remarkable successes of the lacrosse program, the connection between excellence on the field and excellence in the classroom, and his philosophy on leadership and resilience. Coach Alberici reflects on memorable seasons, including the historic 2023 run in the NCAA tournament, and shares insights into his coaching methods and personal inf...
Apr 10, 2025•47 min•Season 3Ep. 3
This episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact features Retired General Scott Miller, a West Point Class of 1983 graduate and West Point Combating Terrorism Center Class of 1987 Senior Fellow. General Miller discusses his nearly 40-year career, including key assignments and achievements. Topics covered include how sports prepared him for military success, the integration of technology and AI in modern warfare, the importance of continuous learning, and what makes great leaders. The convers...
Mar 05, 2025•48 min•Season 3Ep. 2
Join us for an exclusive episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact, where the show’s executive producer, Major Renee Sanjuan, puts the show host, West Point Dean Brigadier General Shane Reeves, in the spotlight as the guest. In this unique conversation, Reeves reflects on the evolution of the podcast, the power of storytelling, and the invaluable role of character development in leadership. He shares standout moments from Season 2, previews the exciting lineup for Season 3, and discusses t...
Feb 19, 2025•27 min•Season 3Ep. 1
Kicking off Season 3, join us for an enlightening fireside chat* on Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact with visionary entrepreneur Elon Musk. In this episode, Musk explores the intersection of advanced technology and modern warfare, focusing on the role of AI and drones in transforming the battlefield. He shares his insights on innovation, the existential risks of AI, and the future of autonomous systems in military operations. Musk’s unique perspective offers invaluable lessons for military a...
Feb 05, 2025•41 min
Join us for an enlightening fireside chat on Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact , with Retired General Raymond A. 'Tony' Thomas III, one of this generation's most experienced combat and military leaders. Thomas shares his reflections on leadership, historical lessons, and the future of warfare, particularly focusing on AI and unmanned capabilities. He discusses his extensive military career, including his role in major operations and his time leading U.S. Special Operations Command. Thomas off...
Dec 09, 2024•49 min•Season 2Ep. 10
Join us in this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact , where we welcome Colonel David Beskow, Academy Professor in the Department of Systems Engineering. COL Beskow discusses his extensive experience and insights on bridging the gap between humans and machines using data science, particularly in cyber, intelligence, and special operations. Learn about his fascinating journey from an infantry leader to the Chief Data Scientist at Army Cyber Command, his current role at West Point, and ...
Nov 07, 2024•45 min•Season 2Ep. 9
In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact , Lt. Col. Will Koch, Program Director for the Space Science Program at West Point, discusses the critical role of space in modern warfare. He shares his extensive experience from serving in Iraq to working with NASA on the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft. Koch highlights the challenges soldiers face with rapidly advancing technology, the importance of understanding and trusting space equipment, and the potential vulnerabilities in space asse...
Oct 09, 2024•46 min•Season 2Ep. 8
In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact , Colonel Chris Mayer from the Department of Law and Philosophy at West Point discusses the importance of balancing technical competence with human skills in the age of AI. Mayer shares his extensive military and academic background, highlighting his work in integrating future force capabilities and his role in educating cadets to become leaders of character. The conversation explores his recent article on thriving in an AI-dominated world,...
Sep 09, 2024•52 min•Season 2Ep. 7
In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact, we explore the influential work of Professor Lori Sheetz, an assistant professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences and the Director of West Point’s Center for Leader Development in STEM (CLD STEM). With a rich background in geophysics and education, Lori has been instrumental in developing and leading STEM programs at West Point. From her initial role in 2009 to her current position as the CLD STEM director, Lori has continually e...
Aug 07, 2024•43 min•Season 2Ep. 6
In this bonus episode of “Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact” podcast, tune in for a fireside chat featuring the twenty-fifth assistant to the US president for the Department of National Security Affairs, Retired Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster. You will hear a riveting fireside chat discussion in front of over 1,000 cadets at West Point on the warrior ethos, innovation, and the future of National defense. McMaster explains how he applied the lessons he learned and knowledge he gained through...
Jul 10, 2024•1 hr
In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, Retired General Vincent Brooks, currently serving as the Department of Behavioral Science and Leadership's Class of 51 Chair for the Study of Leadership at West Point, shares his extensive experiences and thoughts on leadership, innovation, and solving complex problems. The discussion covers highlights of Brooks' distinguished military career, which spanned over 38 years, including his command roles in the U.S. Army and his involvement in ...
Jun 05, 2024•45 min•Season 2Ep. 5
This episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, features an in-depth conversation with Colonel John Baskerville, head of the West Point Department of Foreign Languages, discussing the vital role of foreign language and cultural competence in military education and leader development. Baskerville highlights his extensive background in military service and foreign affairs, emphasizing the importance of the semester abroad programs, international exchanges, and the emerging challenges and inn...
May 08, 2024•57 min•Season 2Ep. 4
In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact , explore the fascinating intersection of history, innovation, and geography at West Point with Dr. Jon Malinowski. With nearly 30 years of experience as a senior civilian faculty member, Dr. Malinowski shares valuable insights into understanding the past through a fresh lens and leveraging modern technology to visualize historical landscapes. Dr. Malinowski takes us on a fascinating journey as he highlights what brings meaning to places an...
Apr 03, 2024•42 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact, Dr. Enoch Nagelli from the Department of Chemistry and Life Science at West Point discusses his research on building renewable energy using nanomaterials and innovative battery designs. He discusses his exploration of flow batteries, his work with the Department of Defense, and his partnerships with civilian universities, all of which aim to advance the field of energy storage and develop innovative munitions technology. Nagelli also share...
Mar 06, 2024•39 min•Season 2Ep. 2
In this episode, Dr. Jeff Peterson and Brig. Gen. Reeves discuss the crucial role of character development at West Point. They introduce an upcoming transformation of the Academic Program—the integration of 5 mandatory courses from throughout a cadet’s four years that focus on different components of character development. In particular, they explore the History of the Army course, drawing lessons from historical leaders, and emphasize the evolution of the Army as a trusted profession. The episo...
Feb 07, 2024•56 min•Season 2Ep. 1
In the Season 2 launch of "Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact," Dean Brigadier General Shane Reeves and Major Renée Sanjuán delve into the transformative journey ahead. Reflecting on the success of Season 1, the Dean expresses gratitude for the overwhelming support from listeners and the enlightening conversations with West Point's scholarly minds. Timestamps: 00:24 Introduction and Welcome to Season 2 00:42 Interview Begins: Reflections on Season 1 02:21 The Power of Interdisciplinary Collabo...
Jan 24, 2024•11 min
In this bonus episode, the West Point Superintendent LTG Steve Gilland and Dean BG Shane Reeves join forces on the West Point Association of Graduates Broadcasting Network Podcast. During their conversation, they use their experiences in the operational Army and at West Point to discuss the complexities of innovating, including how innovation elevates education at the Academy, the pending launch of the Innovation Hub, and the purpose behind this year’s intellectual theme: “Innovation, Technology...
Dec 06, 2023•57 min
In this episode, we delve into the complexities of electrifying the U.S. Army's tactical fleet and installation resilience. Dr. Todd Davidson, an expert in sustainable infrastructure and energy systems, shares his insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with transitioning military vehicles to electric power. He discusses the importance of maintaining tactical capabilities, the role of primary and secondary energy supplies, and the potential advantages of silent, electrified veh...
Nov 01, 2023•42 min•Ep. 9
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 ment...
Oct 04, 2023•45 min•Ep. 8
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 unvei...
Sep 04, 2023•32 min•Ep. 7
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-roun...
Aug 07, 2023•42 min•Ep. 6
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 t...
Jul 03, 2023•42 min•Ep. 5
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...
May 01, 2023•40 min•Ep. 3
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 t...
Apr 03, 2023•29 min•Ep. 2
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 o...
Mar 13, 2023•34 min•Ep. 1
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 m...
Feb 21, 2023•2 min
