LOBO PACK PODCAST

Join us as we talk with 2LT Bryson, King, Gallegos, and CDT King about their experiences on their historic trip to Normandy, France, and learn about their pathways into military leadership. This episode offers valuable insights into ROTC opportunities, military training, and personal growth. In this episode:Cadets discuss their backgrounds and how they joined the military through various programs like National Guard, Green to Gold, and JROTCHighlights of the Normandy staff ride, including visits to Omaha, Utah beaches, and the Battle of NormandyLessons learned from overseas training, Cold Weather Challenge, and participation in events like Baton Memorial Death March and Balloon FiestaMentorship and leadership development within the ROTC battalionTips for balancing college, ROTC, and personal health while preparing for a future as an officerUnique ROTC programs and competitions such as Ranger Challenge, Northern Warfare Challenge, and role of leadership labsReflections on cultural experiences, French cuisine, and visiting Paris and VersaillesUNM ROTC ProgramNorthern Warfare ChallengeBaton Memorial Death MarchBalloon FiestaPalace of VersaillesNormandy Battlefield TourLinkedIn | TwitterTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and overview of cadet backgrounds01:17 - Cadets introduce themselves and share how they joined ROTC02:13 - Cadets recount their paths into military service through guard and active duty03:37 - Reasons for choosing UNM and ROTC programs, including financial aid options04:51 - Cadets discuss special opportunities like Northern Warfare Challenge and Baton Death March06:43 - Reflections on foundational experiences that motivated continued ROTC engagement09:19 - Extracurricular activities like Color Guard, Balloon Fiesta, and staff rides10:01 - Insights into Cold Weather Challenge and how to prepare for unique military training12:24 - Student reflections on mentorship, leadership, and squadron support during college13:47 - Cadets’ memorable experiences from the Normandy staff ride and battle insights15:36 - How to stay motivated and push through demanding military events like rucking marathons17:11 - Additional training opportunities, including recruiting and leadership competitions19:00 - Lessons from working community events like Balloon Fiesta and international travel20:12 - Mentorship's role in personal guidance and leadership cultivation22:12 - Cadets share their mentors and the importance of guidance in military career development23:16 - Balancing academics, fitness, and ROTC commitments in college life25:38 - Strategies for managing time, priorities, and stress during college years28:05 - Tips for engineering students to succeed academically and in ROTC30:05 - The significance of camp experience for leadership and teamwork growth31:14 - Planning staff rides: decision-making, planning, and historical insights34:00 - In-depth look at Normandy staff ride logistics, terrain, and strategic understanding36:38 - Reflection on deploying to Europe and cultural experiences in France39:16 - Final thoughts on the trip, including landmarks visited, and French cuisine52:53 - Cadets recount their favorite moments, from Eiffel Tower to Palace of Versailles54:39 - Advice for future cadets: confidence, resourcefulness, and making the most of ROTC55:38 - Support networks, resources, and encouragement for cadets' success56:09 - Closing remarks and gratitude for recording and sharing these stories Interested in Army ROTC? Check out our website at⁠⁠⁠⁠Army ROTC |The University of New Mexico⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠UNM Army ROTC- YouTube⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠facebook.com/UofNMArmyROTC⁠⁠ Insta: ⁠⁠instagram.com/unm_army_rotc⁠⁠Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/c/UNMArmyROTC⁠⁠ All views shared by the guests are their own and do not reflect on the U.S. Army. This podcast is not associated with the Department of War.

Unveiling Russian Intelligence Tactics with Former-CIA Officer Sean Wiswesser.Join us as former CIA case officer Sean Wiswesser shares a deep dive into Russian espionage, active measures, and tradecraft. Discover how intelligence agencies operate behind the scenes, the significance of illegals, and the evolving landscape of influence campaigns. In this episode:Sean’s journey from analysis to becoming a case officer and the process of writing his authoritative bookThe enduring importance of illegals in Russian espionage and their historical successes and failuresInsights into Russian active measures, influence operations, and the use of social media in modern information warfareThe role of private military groups like Wagner in hybrid warfare and Africa's geopolitical landscapeThe significance of language skills and cultural understanding for intelligence professionalsHow countries navigate diplomatic relations amid espionage allegations and operationsThe impact of recent nerve agent attacks, spy swaps, and the slow Western responseInterested in serving in intelligence?Linked is an informative guide for staring your career :https://www.afio.com/assets/publications/AFIO_Intelligence_Careers_Booklet_2023_FINAL.pdfLink to the book on amazon:Tradecraft, Tactics, and Dirty Tricks: Russian Intelligence and Putin's Secret War https://a.co/d/089NgKfB

Join us in this episode as we delve into the fascinating journey of Andrew Kreitz, CFO of Castelion, exploring the intersection of aerospace innovation, defense, and entrepreneurship. Discover the strategic insights behind rapid hardware development, navigating defense acquisitions, and building a cutting-edge hypersonic weapons company from the ground up.In this episode:Andrew Kreitz's background in defense and finance, and his transition from Goldman Sachs to SpaceXThe motivation behind founding Castelion amidst rising global threatsHow military experience, especially ROTC, shapes leadership and organizational cohesionThe development and strategic focus of Blackbeard, Castelion hypersonic missileChallenges in raising capital for advanced defense technology startupsThe importance of organizational culture, agility, and individual ownership in a fast-moving startupInsights into defense procurement processes and relationships with military leadersFuture plans for Castelion projects, including integration with military platforms and testing at White SandsThe balance between work intensity and maintaining team cohesion in a small but growing companyInterested in Army ROTC? Check out our website atArmy ROTC |The University of New Mexico⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠UNM Army ROTC- YouTube⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠facebook.com/UofNMArmyROTC⁠⁠ Insta: ⁠⁠instagram.com/unm_army_rotc⁠⁠Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/c/UNMArmyROTC⁠⁠ All views shared by the guests are their own and do not reflect on the U.S. Army. This podcast is not associated with the Department of War.

Join us as we interview Colonel Lacy, a seasoned officer and educator, who shares insights into the diverse roles within the Air Force—from electronic warfare to space operations—and discusses the evolving nature of military aviation and the importance of continuous learning.Key TopicsThe selection process and career progression for Air Force officers, including specialized roles like nuclear officers and missile operatorsThe unique responsibilities of combat systems officers on fixed-wing aircraft, focusing on mission management and electronic warfareThe training journey from ROTC to mission qualification, emphasizing the importance of preparation and adaptabilityThe strategic significance of missile and electronic warfare fields in modern defenseInsights into the expanding role of space in national security and how the Space Force integrates into Air Force programsLeadership development at the ROTC level: assessments, challenges, and fostering humility and continuous growthOpportunities for cadets in flight training, space careers, and extracurricular development such as the aviation club and summer programsInterested in Army ROTC? Check out our website at⁠⁠Army ROTC |The University of New Mexico⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠UNM Army ROTC- YouTube⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠facebook.com/UofNMArmyROTC⁠⁠ Insta: ⁠⁠instagram.com/unm_army_rotc⁠⁠Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/c/UNMArmyROTC⁠⁠ All views shared by the guests are their own and do not reflect on the U.S. Army. This podcast is not associated with the Department of War.

Discover the journey of Dr. Emile Nakhleh, a seasoned former senior intelligence officer, as he shares his insights on Islam, the importance of institutions, and the evolving landscape of global security. This episode explores how personal experiences, academic pursuits, and professional service intersect to shape a nuanced understanding of international affairs and national security.Key Topics:Dr. Nakhleh’s background growing up in Nazareth and his path to studying political science in the United StatesThe influence of Greek philosophy, Roman law, and the concept of institutions on democracy and governanceThe significance of rule of law and institutional independence in Muslim and non-Muslim countriesThe journey into understanding Islam: religious teachings, fundamentalism, and radicalizationThe impact of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan on Islamic radicalism and global jihadThe role of language and cultural knowledge in intelligence analysisBuilding national security programs at universities and fostering interest in young studentsThe importance of interdisciplinary approaches to global security and the future of the field(00:00) - Introduction and gratitude to listeners(00:26) - Guest introduction: Dr. Emile Nakhleh’s background and expertise(02:14) - Globally shaped by conflict, ideology, and change(05:05) - Growing up in Nazareth and studying in the U.(07:55) - How early experiences influenced interest in governance(12:12) - The role of institutions in democracy(17:03) - Religious upbringing and fascination with Islam(20:15) - The U.(25:28) - Comparing fundamentalism across religions(27:42) - Schools of Islamic jurisprudence and radicalism(35:44) - Building democracy and political institutions in autocratic states(39:02) - American public opinion in Muslim countries(41:36) - Emigration, opportunity, and the immigrant experience(43:58) - Middle Eastern economies and youth unemployment(47:56) - Radicalization through social media(49:31) - Transition from academia to intelligence service(55:23) - Establishing national security programs at universities(66:36) - Attracting students and fostering a culture of security awareness(70:11) - Advice for students interested in a career in intelligence(72:30) - The critical importance of language skills(74:29) - Conclusion and future engagementNotes:This episode emphasizes the value of interdisciplinary education, language proficiency, and institutional development in addressing complex global security challenges. Dr. Nakhleh’s career arc demonstrates the profound impact of academic knowledge and practical intelligence work in shaping U.S. policy and understanding the Muslim world.Interested in Army ROTC? Check out our website at⁠⁠⁠⁠Army ROTC |The University of New Mexico⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠UNM Army ROTC- YouTube⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠facebook.com/UofNMArmyROTC⁠⁠ Insta: ⁠⁠instagram.com/unm_army_rotc⁠⁠Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/c/UNMArmyROTC⁠⁠ All views shared by the guests are their own and do not reflect on the U.S. Government. This podcast is not associated with the Department of War.

Discover how the University of New Mexico is shaping the future of national security education through its Global National Security Policy Institute. Dr. Philip Hultquist shares insights into interdisciplinary programs, strategic research, and the importance of cross-sector collaboration in securing our future. Main Topics:The genesis and evolution of UNM’s Global National Security Policy Institute (GNSPI)How interdisciplinary and cross-sector collaboration enhance national security trainingKey graduate and undergraduate certificates in intelligence analysis and strategyThe significance of experiential learning, international research, and networks in policy developmentFuture program plans, symposiums, and building a vibrant security communityInterested in Army ROTC? Check out our website at ⁠Army ROTC |The University of New Mexico⁠YouTube: UNM Army ROTC - YouTube⁠Facebook: ⁠facebook.com/UofNMArmyROTC⁠ Insta: ⁠instagram.com/unm_army_rotc⁠Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/c/UNMArmyROTC⁠ All views shared by the guests are their own and do not reflect on the U.S. Army. This podcast is not associated with the Department of War.

Lieutenant Moreno shares her journey through ROTC, military training, and her experiences with advanced camps, NTC, and European rotations. Discover insights into military operations, leadership development, and career progression in the Army.Interested in Army ROTC? Check out our website at ⁠Army ROTC |The University of New Mexico⁠YouTube: UNM Army ROTC - YouTube⁠Facebook: ⁠facebook.com/UofNMArmyROTC⁠ Insta:⁠instagram.com/unm_army_rotc⁠Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/c/UNMArmyROTC⁠All views shared by the guests are their own and do not reflect on the U.S. Army. This podcast is not associated with the Department of War.

In this episode of the Lobo Pack podcast, Trevor Weeks, a law enforcement officer with the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) and an UNM alumnus, shares his journey from growing up in the East Mountains of Albuquerque to serving in the military and transitioning into law enforcement. Inspired by the events of 9/11 and his grandfather's military service, Trevor discusses his decision to join Army ROTC at the University of New Mexico, where he pursued a degree in history while also engaging in military training. He highlights the importance of his experiences in the SMP program, which allowed him to gain valuable insights into the enlisted soldier's perspective before becoming an officer.Interested in Army ROTC? Check out our website at⁠⁠⁠⁠Army ROTC |The University of New Mexico⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠UNM Army ROTC- YouTube⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠facebook.com/UofNMArmyROTC⁠⁠ Insta: ⁠⁠instagram.com/unm_army_rotc⁠⁠Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/c/UNMArmyROTC⁠⁠ All views shared by the guests are their own and do not reflect on the U.S. Army. This podcast is not associated with the Department of War.

LTC Michael Valletta shares his journey from growing up in Chicago to becoming a distinguished aviator and Foreign Area Officer in the Army. He discusses his initial aspirations, the challenges he faced in flight school, and his experiences with the 160th Night Stalkers and living in Budapest. LTC Valletta emphasizes the importance of being open to unique military opportunities and the support the Army provides to its soldiers and their families.Interested in Army ROTC? Check out our website at ⁠Army ROTC |The University of New Mexico⁠YouTube: UNM Army ROTC - YouTube⁠Facebook: ⁠facebook.com/UofNMArmyROTC⁠ Insta: ⁠instagram.com/unm_army_rotc⁠Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/c/UNMArmyROTC⁠All views shared by the guests are their own and do not reflect on the U.S. Army. This podcast is not associated with the Department of War.

In this episode we continue our interview with MAJ Raschel, an Army Space Operations Officer. We dive into what is Space Operations, why there is a Space Force, and how Army soldiers can compete for those careers. Interested in Army ROTC? Check out our website at ⁠Army ROTC |The University of New Mexico⁠YouTube: UNM Army ROTC - YouTube⁠Facebook: ⁠facebook.com/UofNMArmyROTC⁠ Insta: ⁠instagram.com/unm_army_rotc⁠Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/c/UNMArmyROTC⁠ All views shared by the guests are their own and do not reflect on the U.S. Army. This podcast is not associated with the Department of War.