Talking Strategy
Royal United Services Institute
Our thinking about defence and security is shaped by ideas. What we see depends on our vantage point and the lenses we apply to the world. Governments, military and business leaders are seeking to maximise the value they gain from scarce resources by becoming more 'strategic'. Standing on the shoulders of the giants of strategy from the past helps us see further and more clearly into the future. This series is aimed at those looking to learn more about strategy and how to become more strategic – leaders, practitioners and scholars.
This podcast series, co-chaired by Professor Beatrice Heuser and Paul O'Neill, examines the ideas of important thinkers from around the world and across the ages. The ideas, where they came from and what shaped those whose ideas shape us now. By exploring the concepts in which we and our adversaries think today, the episodes will shine a light on how we best prepare for tomorrow.
The views or statements expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by RUSI employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of RUSI.
This podcast series, co-chaired by Professor Beatrice Heuser and Paul O'Neill, examines the ideas of important thinkers from around the world and across the ages. The ideas, where they came from and what shaped those whose ideas shape us now. By exploring the concepts in which we and our adversaries think today, the episodes will shine a light on how we best prepare for tomorrow.
The views or statements expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by RUSI employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of RUSI.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 24, 2026 • 30min
S6E14: Force Integration in 1940: Dowding's Air Defence System
Andrew Renwick, curator of photographs at the RAF Museum Hendon and author on RAF history, explains how Hugh Dowding built Britain’s integrated air defence before WWII. He walks through radar adoption, intelligence sources like Enigma, and how decentralized command and experienced fighter leaders made the system function. The conversation highlights doctrinal clashes, the Big Wing debates, and Dowding’s lasting legacy.
Mar 10, 2026 • 33min
S6E13: Transforming Poland's Military: General Rajmund Andrzejczak
General Rajmund Andrzejczak, former Chief of the General Staff of Poland and seasoned NATO/un peace operations leader, discusses Poland's rapid military transformation. He covers rebuilding state-on-state capabilities, multi-domain concepts including cyber and space, regional leadership responsibilities, recruitment and education challenges, and reopening debates on deterrence and posture in Europe.
8 snips
Feb 24, 2026 • 34min
S6E12: The Elder Moltke: Preparing for Victory in 1800s Prussia
Geoffrey Wawro, Professor of Military History and specialist in 19th-century Prussia, discusses Helmuth von Moltke the Elder and his reforms. He covers Moltke's rail and mobilization priorities, the evolution of the general staff, mission tactics and officer education. The conversation also explores resource choices in weapons and logistics and what those choices meant for Prussia’s wartime success.
5 snips
Feb 10, 2026 • 37min
S6E11: Finland's Comprehensive Security Model
Petteri Korvala, Secretary General of Finland's Security Committee with 30+ years in defence and policy, explains Finland's comprehensive security model. He outlines the seven vital functions and how local, regional and national levels link. He discusses conscription's societal role, building trust and psychological resilience, and how exercises, volunteers and phased investment sustain long-term preparedness.
4 snips
Jan 27, 2026 • 36min
S6E10: Britain's Preparation for War: Professor Sir Hew Strachan
Professor Sir Hew Strachan, noted First World War historian and government defence adviser. He explores how Britain had partial plans and nascent institutions before 1914. Short steps in naval readiness, industrial mobilization and cross-government coordination mattered. He traces how those early measures influenced later mobilization and what that means for modern readiness.
4 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 32min
S6E9: The Iron Chancellor: Otto von Bismarck's Unification of Germany
Michael Epkenhans, a historian specializing in 19th-century German history and former Director of Research at the Bundeswehr's Military History Research Office, delves into Otto von Bismarck's masterful tactics in unifying Germany. He reveals how Bismarck used war and realpolitik to manipulate European powers, often pitting them against each other. Bismarck's focus on Prussia over broader nationalism and his pragmatic approach to diplomacy paved the way for a new German state, while his calculated risks sometimes ignited future conflicts.
23 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 33min
S6E8: Prioritising Innovation: Creating a Secure and Resilient Ecosystem
Dame Fiona Murray, Chair of the NATO Innovation Fund and MIT professor, delves into the intersection of innovation and defense strategy. She discusses the shift from state-led to private industry-led innovation and underscores the need for resilient industrial ecosystems. Fiona warns against excessive tariffs and emphasizes the importance of scaling startups through strategic partnerships. Dual-use technologies are highlighted as a critical avenue for investment, calling on governments to prioritize clear objectives to enhance effectiveness against global competitors like China.
6 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 33min
S6E7: Strategic Transformation of the Army: General Sir Nigel Bagnall
Justin Maciejewski, a former senior British Army officer and director of the National Army Museum, shares insights on General Sir Nigel Bagnall's transformative reforms in the British Army. He highlights Bagnall's strategic innovations against the Soviet threat, emphasizing the importance of doctrine, training, and collaboration with NATO allies. Maciejewski also discusses the significance of Bagnall's adaptability and the legacy of his ideas, asserting their relevance in today's military landscape. Tune in for a deep dive into military strategy and leadership!
18 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 34min
S6E6: Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson: Building a Warrior Culture
In this discussion, Dr. Martin Robson, an associate professor specializing in naval history, delves into the remarkable leadership of Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson. He reveals how Nelson fostered a martial spirit among his sailors, urging them to confront enemies boldly. The conversation highlights Nelson’s innovative delegation style, creating a cohesive leadership team through personal engagement. Robson also explores Nelson's people-centric approach and his strategic use of public support, shaping a lasting heroic legacy that still resonates today.
15 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 36min
S6E5: Strategy Amidst Complexity: Gen.(retd) Lori Robinson
General (retd) Lori Robinson, a trailblazing four-star U.S. Air Force officer, shares her insights on strategic leadership from her distinguished 37-year career. She defines strategy as aligning objectives with capabilities and adversary considerations. Robinson contrasts military and business strategies, emphasizes the impact of Congressional oversight on military planning, and discusses the dynamics of binational command with Canada. Delving into servant leadership, she highlights the importance of teaching and empowering others for effective strategy making.
