Books to Battles

In this episode of Books to Battles , Dr. Wes Hutto discusses his new textbook Understanding International Security . He introduces the core themes and frameworks that shape the field, from great power competition to emerging challenges in cyber and space. Dr. Hutto explains how the book blends theory and practice to prepare students and professionals for today’s complex global environment. The co...

In this episode of Books to Battles , Dr. Milena Jakšić examines the Luftwaffe’s operational air warfare during World War II and what it can teach us today. She explores how German airpower adapted—or failed to adapt—to strategic and operational challenges, and the consequences that followed. Drawing lessons for modern military professionals, Dr. Jakšić highlights enduring themes in the relationsh...

In this episode of Books to Battles , the hosts tackle a set of pressing current events shaping strategy today. They discuss the upcoming Artemis II mission and its implications for U.S. space leadership, examine Russian incursions into Polish airspace and their impact on NATO security, and consider the forthcoming National Defense Strategy. Together, these conversations highlight how technologica...

In this second episode featuring thesis award winners we spotlight three outstanding thesis award winners from SAASS Class 34: Curtis Sinewe, Philip Jenkins, and Joe Regan. Each shares the insights and discoveries from their research, along with reflections on the thesis process itself. From innovative approaches to strategy to lessons learned along the way, their conversation highlights the intel...

In this first part of a special two part series, Books to Battles highlights the SAASS thesis program and Class 34 award winners. This week's episode begins with Dr. John Maurer, director of the program, who explains its goals, rigor, and impact on strategic education. The conversation then turns to Chance Smith, recipient of the David R. Mets Award for History, who discusses his research, key fin...

In this episode of Books to Battles , Col Neil Dimmit and Lt Col Rachel Reynolds share their journeys pursuing civilian PhDs and how those experiences shaped their careers as educators and strategists. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of balancing academic study with military service, the unique perspectives gained through civilian doctoral programs, and how those insights enrich thei...

In this episode of Books to Battles , Dr. Rich Muller, Dr. Rob Hutchinson, and Lt Col Ben Heidenreich discuss SAASS 627, Airpower in the Age of Total War . Covering airpower and military history through World War II, they explore technological innovation, strategic transformation, and the lessons learned from early air campaigns. The conversation highlights how the course connects historical conte...

In this episode of Books to Battles , Major General Parker Wright shares his perspectives on leadership, strategic education, and the evolving demands of air and space power. Reflecting on his career and experiences, he discusses the enduring importance of intellectual development for senior leaders, the challenges of modern conflict, and how SAASS prepares strategists to think critically in compl...

In this episode of Books to Battles , Dr. James Kiras discusses his influential book Special Operations Success . Drawing on historical case studies and strategic theory, Dr. Kiras examines what makes special operations effective—and when they fall short. He explores the balance between tactics and strategy, the importance of context, and the enduring lessons for modern military professionals seek...

In this episode of Books to Battles , Dr. David Sorenson and Dr. Carl Forsberg of the Air War College join our hosts to analyze the recent strikes against Iran, examining their strategic objectives, regional implications, and potential ripple effects on global security. Drawing on their expertise in Middle East politics and military strategy, they unpack the historical context of Iranian relations...

In this episode of Books to Battles , Dr. James Kiras and Dr. Wes Hutto join the podcast to unpack SAASS 600: Military Theory , a foundational course that explores the nature and character of war through the lens of classical and contemporary thinkers. They discuss the course’s major themes, including the interplay between theory and practice, the enduring relevance of Clausewitz, and how students...

Dr. Wendy Whitman Cobb and Dr. Derrick Frazier join Books to Battles to discuss their book Space Policy for the 21st Century . They explore key themes in contemporary space policy, including commercialization, security, and governance, and examine how strategic thinking can help navigate the rapidly evolving domain of outer space. All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily re...

In this episode of Books to Battles , three SAASS students share their personal journeys through the school’s rigorous academic year. They discuss what drew them to SAASS, how the curriculum challenged and changed their thinking, and the value of studying strategy in an intensive seminar environment. From balancing research and writing to engaging in deep discussion with faculty and peers, they of...

In this episode of Books to Battles , we dive into SAASS 601: Foundations of Strategy , the first course students encounter at the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies. Dr. Rich Muller, Dr. Jim Tucci, and Dr. Tom Hughes—who make up the course’s teaching team—join us to explore how the curriculum establishes the intellectual grounding for the SAASS year. They discuss key texts, themes, and ques...

In this episode of Books to Battles , SAASS Commandant Col Robert O’Keefe reflects on his time as a student, his return as a leader, and his vision for the school’s future. He shares insights on strategic education, professional development, and the evolving role of SAASS in shaping air and space power. All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the Department of De...

In the debut episode of Books to Battles , Dr. Rich Muller and Dr. Wes Hutto explore the origins and evolution of the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies. They discuss SAASS’s founding vision, intellectual foundations, and its enduring role in shaping strategic thinkers for the challenges of modern warfare. All views expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the Departm...

Books to Battles is the podcast where strategic theory meets real-world air and space power. We explore the ideas, books, and thinkers that shape modern military strategy. Join us as we turn academic insight into operational impact—because in air and space warfare, strategy doesn't stop at the last page. All views expressed in this series are the speaker's own and are not necessarily reflective of...