Corps Conversations

In this episode of Corps Conversations , LCDR Katie Williams '12 joins hosts 1/c Kevin Pandorf and Tara King Clark to share how she found her place in the Coast Guard's prevention community, why self-advocacy became one of the most important leadership skills in her career, and how pursuing opportunities outside the traditional path led to some of the most rewarding experiences of her service. Fro...

Leadership isn't always about being the loudest voice in the room. Sometimes it's about listening first, building trust, and creating space for others to succeed. In this episode of Corps Conversations , 1/c Cadet Carl DiGiorgio and Tara King Clark sit down with Dr. Elaine Fitzgerald Lewis '97. Growing up in a Coast Guard family in New London, Elaine's connection to the Academy began long before h...

1/c Cadet Aislinn Murray and Tara King Clark sit down with Colleen Denny ’09 to explore a career defined by service, adaptability, and a commitment to helping others. From leading migrant interdiction missions at sea and serving as a Pacific Area Admiral’s Aide to supporting humanitarian efforts in Kenya and responding to the war in Ukraine through her work with Spirit of America, Colleen shares t...

First Class Cadet Elijah Parent ’26 and LCDR Nick Martin ’12 sit down with Commander Craig Johnson ’09, commanding officer of Station New York and former Coast Guard Academy basketball standout. Together, they explore leadership, growth, accountability, and what it means to be a “late bloomer” in both life and service. Commander Johnson reflects candidly on his non-linear career path—from the Coas...

Editor’s Note: This episode was republished after additional audio editing to try to address sound quality issues present in the original version. It's still not perfect, but a bit better! Released on the day of their graduation from the United States Coast Guard Academy May 20, 2026, this special bonus episode of  Corps Conversations  captures a unique moment of transition for the cadet hosts as...

In this episode, Stephanie Young ’07 shares her diverse career journey from the Coast Guard to Meta, highlighting leadership, innovation, and navigating uncharted territory. A unique aspect of Stephanie Young’s career is that she was first to fill each role she’s had within both the Coast Guard and at META. Join co-hosts Cadet First-Class Carl DiGiorgio and Tara King Clark, the Alumni Association’...

Trigger Warning: We want to acknowledge that this conversation includes discussion of sensitive topics, including grief, traumatic loss, serious injury, organ donation, and suicide. We encourage you to take a pause or skip ahead if needed. These topics begin around the 37-minute mark and run through minute 58. In this episode of Corps Conversations, Commander Jeannie Greene ’05 shares her journey...

Meet the team behind the first podcast produced by the USCGA Alumni Association.