The Foreign Area Officer Podcast

#34 - LTC(R) Bill Woods

In this episode of the Foreign Area Officer Podcast, host Michael Hill interviews retired Lieutenant Colonel Bill Woods, an Eastern European FAO and current instructor at the Joint Military Attaché School (JMAS). LTC Woods shares his experiences and challenges faced during his career, including the undervaluation of FAOs in the past, his roles in Naples, Cyprus, and London, and the importance of building relationships in diplomatic and military contexts. The discussion also touches on the practical aspects of being an FAO, the impact of critical thinking and current doctrinal knowledge, and the unique experiences and opportunities presented by serving at JMAS. Bill reflects on the importance of having fun in the job and staying engaged in current assignments while planning for future roles.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
00:42 Welcome and Guest Introduction
00:59 Early Experiences as a FAO
02:13 Challenging Assignments and Career Growth
04:44 Political Advisor Role in Baghdad
07:47 NATO Advisor Experience
23:22 Greek Language and Cultural Immersion
41:39 Access and Opportunities in Foreign Military Education
43:06 Challenges and Misconceptions in Greek War College
44:19 Thesis Writing and Overcoming Language Barriers
44:58 Navigating Cultural and Academic Expectations
45:33 Ethical Dilemmas and Academic Integrity
46:31 Building Relationships and Gaining Respect
47:25 Experiences and Reflections on Military Assignments
49:45 The Importance of Fitting In and Building Trust
51:29 Protocol and Respect in International Military Relations
54:33 Career Path and Assignments in Military Diplomacy
55:59 Navigating the Attache Service and Career Challenges
57:54 The Role of FAOs in Multinational Operations
01:00:25 Balancing Operational Knowledge and Diplomatic Skills
01:07:31 The Value of War College and Continuous Learning
01:20:02 The Future of FAOs in a Changing Military Landscape
01:22:39 Experiences and Challenges in Cyprus
01:27:11 Minister's Support and Explosive Seizure
01:28:06 Meeting the Minister of Defense
01:28:59 The Explosion and Its Aftermath
01:30:14 Improving Relationships Post-Explosion
01:33:44 Challenges and Strategies in Diplomatic Relations
01:42:24 Reflections on Career and FAO Experiences
01:53:13 Working at the Joint Military Attaché School (JMAS)
01:58:28 Advice for Future FAOs and Instructors
02:08:22 Final Thoughts and Farewell

#33 - LTC(P) Wes Chaney

In this episode I’m happy to welcome back LTC(P) Wes Chaney, US Army AFRICOM FAO.  Wes shares his journey in establishing the Army Foreign Area Officer Association and discusses his first book, which delves into his experiences as a security cooperation officer in Africa. The conversation covers a variety of topics including the creation of his Africa OSC blog, the unique challenges faced by FAOs, the importance of mentorship, and the activities of the Army FAO Association. Wes also provides invaluable advice on managing expectations, senior leader engagements, and the specific 'shoulds' (don’t be that guy!)and 'traps' FAOs should be aware of. The episode is a goldmine of information for both current and aspiring FAOs, offering practical tips and reflective anecdotes from Wes's extensive career.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers
00:40 Welcoming the Guest: Lt. Col. Wes Cheney
01:13 The Birth of the Africa OSC Blog
04:12 Challenges and Realizations in Blogging
06:53 From Blog to Book: The Journey
07:31 Publishing Hurdles and Success
08:59 Content and Structure of the Book
10:38 Practical Advice for Security Cooperation Officers
14:54 The Importance of Adaptability and Learning
15:42 Travel Tips and Cultural Insights
40:21 The Should List: Dos and Don'ts for SCOs
47:36 Understanding Your Role and Building Consensus
48:36 Common Pitfalls in Security Cooperation
49:50 The African Love Traps and Other Hazards
50:48 Misuse of Government Resources
51:12 Managing Health and Stress
01:06:00 The Importance of Senior Leader Engagements
01:16:22 Managing Expectations and Avoiding False Promises
01:22:43 The Army FAO Association: Achievements and Future Plans
01:28:31 The Importance of Mentorship in FAO Careers

#32 - MAJ(P) Jacob Myers

Meet MAJ(P) Promotable Jacob Myers, currently serving at the Military Advising Training Academy (MATA) at Fort Benning, Georgia. Our discussion covers the purpose and function of MATA, the development and training of military advisors, and the history and evolution of Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFABs). Myers elaborates on his experience in Latvia, the challenges of building rapport and training in a foreign country, and the rapidly changing dynamics in Eastern Europe following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. We also touch on FAO professional development, the importance of language skills, and the valuable interactions and learning opportunities throughout a FAO’s career.
 
Books Discussed:
Between Two Giants, Brit Batar
The Russians, Hedrick Smith
Kiril Yaskov, The Last Ring Bearer
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers
00:45 Meet Major Promotable Jacob Myers
01:11 Understanding the Military Advising Training Academy (MATA)
02:29 History and Evolution of Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFABs)
06:53 Training and Deployment of Military Advisors
10:22 Challenges and Realities of Military Advising
14:05 Combat Advisor Training Course (CATC) Overview
19:14 Practical Training and Exercises
28:50 Expanding Training to Joint Forces and Foreign Partners
35:25 The Role of FAOs in SFABs
39:52 Personal Experience and Future Aspirations
43:51 Understanding the FAO Roles and Responsibilities
46:02 Navigating Challenges in Latvia During COVID-19
47:20 Impact of Russia's Invasion of Ukraine on Latvia
51:02 Strengthening US-Latvia Defense Relations
01:10:07 Language and Cultural Dynamics in Latvia
01:20:21 Jacob's Journey: From Basic Training to FAO Program
01:21:35 Joining the National Guard and Pursuing Active Duty
01:21:58 Transition to Active Duty and Deployment to Afghanistan
01:23:02 Experiences in Afghanistan and Promotion to Captain
01:25:20 Pentagon Assignment and Introduction to FAO
01:26:14 Discovering the FAO Program and Early Influences
01:29:58 Training and Assignments as a FAO
01:30:42 Language Training and Family Experiences
01:32:27 Marshall Center and Regional Travels
01:42:35 Importance of Building Relationships and Staying Informed
01:47:49 Final Thoughts and Advice for FAOs

#31 - COL(R) JP Gresh

What crisis was central to your experience working at a U.S. embassy abroad, for better or worse?
Join me in a discussion with COL(R) JP Gresh to discuss his  experiences in Russia, Ukraine, and the Balkans. The conversation highlights key moments such as the 2013-2014 Ukraine crisis, the challenges of security cooperation in Estonia, and the complexities of working in Russia. Additionally, Gresh shares insights into balancing professional and personal life with a spouse in the Department of State, and offers advice for future FAOs on training, career growth, and the importance of adaptability and maintaining strong interagency relationships. COL(R) Grech also serves as the Co-Editor-in-Chief of the FAOA Journal.
 
Books/Organizations Discussed
Black Swan, Nassim Nicholas Taleb
All the Kremlin’s Men, Mikhail Zygar
Between Two Fires, Joshua Yaffa
Nothing Is True and Everything Is Possible, Peter Pomerantsev
FPRI (Foreign Policy Research Institute), www.fpri.org 
FAOA Journal, www.faoajournal.substack.com  
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers
00:46 Meet Colonel JP Gresh
01:33 Early Military Career
02:51 Discovering the FAO Path
03:51 Experiences in Germany and the Balkans
05:52 Reflections on Iraq
10:37 Ukraine: First FAO Utilization Tour
13:47 The 2014 Ukrainian Crisis
15:57 US-Ukraine Military Relations
19:52 Strategic Insights on Russia and NATO
29:44 Lessons from UCOM and Security Cooperation
50:54 Balancing Dual Careers in the FAO World
54:14 Reflecting on Professional Challenges and Lessons Learned
56:44 Navigating a Tandem Career in the Department of State
57:19 Insights on Managing Dual Professional Careers
59:33 Experiences and Challenges in Russia
01:01:10 The Complex Relationship Between the U.S. and Russia
01:05:48 Living and Working in Moscow
01:08:54 Surveillance and Daily Life in Moscow
01:12:46 Diplomatic Restrictions and Challenges
01:18:27 Family Life and Safety in Russia
01:23:33 Post-Retirement and Contributions to the FAO Community
01:28:28 Reflections on FAO Training and Career
01:44:22 Final Thoughts and Parting Advice

#30 - Julie and CAPT(R) Tully

In this episode of the Foreign Area Officer Podcast, I interview Julie Tully and her husband U.S. Navy CAPT(R) John Tulley. We discuss Julie's transition from a cowgirl in Northern California to a 'nomadic Navy spouse' and the dynamic journey from her career in agriculture to becoming a Foreign Area Officer (FAO) spouse, living and working in Europe and Africa for fifteen consecutive years. The conversation delves into the couple’s experiences living in Cameroon, Nigeria, and Djibouti and the impact of their roles there. They touch on memorable challenges, the importance of self-reliance, and the significant contributions spouses make to the FAO mission. Julie also shares the inspiration and stories behind her book, 'Dispatches from the Cowgirl,' offering a deeper look into the FAO lifestyle and its challenges and rewards.
 
Learn More about Julie’s work at www.JulieTullyWriter.com
 
Books Discussed:
Dispatches of a Cowgirl, by Julie Tully
Broadway in Benghazi, by Anna Linvill
Out of Africa, by Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen)
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers
00:45 Meet the Guests: John and Julie Tulley
01:19 Julie's Journey: From Cowgirl to Navy Spouse
03:37 Life on the Ranch and Transition to FAO
04:55 The FAO Lifestyle: Challenges and Adaptations
14:11 John's Naval Academy and Submarine Experience
19:16 Discovering the FAO Career Path
22:07 Julie's Perspective: Public Relations and FAO Life
25:46 Adventures and Challenges in Africa
34:16 The Importance of Teamwork in FAO Assignments
43:10 A Hospital Emergency Room in Nigeria
57:04 The Commissary Conundrum
59:10 Internet Surprises in Nigeria
59:47 Defining Home Across Continents
01:09:18 Experiencing Local Cultures Through Staff
01:34:19 Honoring a Fallen Hero in Djibouti
01:49:14 Reflections on the FAO Life
 

#29 - COL Matt Kopp, USA

Join me for an illuminating discussion with Colonel Matt Kopp, a U.S. Army FAO. We explore Colonel Kopp's beginning as a 48B, focusing on pivotal partnerships in Latin America, particularly during the final phases of Colombia’s Civil War. Colonel Kopp shares insights into his transition to a 48J, concentrating on Sub-Saharan Africa, and the critical need to understand and respond to the human and institutional complexities in these regions. The conversation includes discussions on his operational challenges, such as managing high-profile visits and interagency coordination, and the role of psychology and sociology in his duties. We also touch upon his work with the Army Foreign Area Officer Association, focusing on mentorship, fostering academic discourse, and preparing FAOs for influential second careers.
 
Books Discussed
Thinking, Fast and Slow, by Daniel Kahneman https://a.co/d/fNUHTUn 
Neither Devil Nor Child: How Western Attitudes Are Harming Africa, by Tom Young https://a.co/d/9yv70Z8 
On the Psychology of Military Incompetence, by Norman F. Dixon https://a.co/d/4nkJNIt 
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers
00:42 Meet Colonel Matt Kopp
01:01 Career Choices and Transitions
02:22 Experiences in Sub-Saharan Africa
03:39 Challenges and Responsibilities at HRC
08:23 PhD Journey and Research
15:36 Transition to Africa FAO
23:02 Building Relationships and Team Dynamics
31:07 Insights on Leadership and Collaboration
43:46 Psychological Factors and Broader Perspectives
48:18 Understanding Heuristics in International Relations
50:28 Managing High Operational Tempo in Kenya
51:00 Military Operations and Planning in Diplomatic Missions
56:26 Lessons from Secret Service and VIP Visits
01:04:04 Transition to Army Service Component Commands
01:13:01 Experiences in Latin America and SOUTHCOM
01:26:32 The Role of the Army Foreign Area Officer Association
01:33:31 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

#28 - LTC Lemar Farhad, USA

This episode of the Foreign Area Officer Podcast delves into the unique background of LTC Lemar Farhad, USA, tracing his journey from a culturally diverse upbringing and Afghan heritage to his pivotal role in the U.S. Army. Lemar shares his transition into the FAO program, starting with his early assignments as an infantry and intelligence officer and detailing his first exposure to U.S. embassies and defense cooperation. Through captivating anecdotes, he highlights his significant assignments, including his work in Special Operations Command Europe, his impactful tenure as the ODC Chief in Kuala Lumpur, and his current role in Korea focusing on non-combatant evacuation operations (NEO). The conversation also explores challenges in leadership, the importance of understanding cultural contexts, and the value of reading to gain diverse perspectives. Lemar's journey exemplifies the integration of strategic thinking and operational expertise, emphasizing the art of diplomacy and the FAO community's crucial role in global defense and cooperation.
 
Articles:
Reimagining Policing in America—A Complete Institutional Overhaul by LTC Lemar Farhad
 
Books Discussed: 
2034 by Elliot Ackerman and Admiral (Ret.) James Stavridis USN
2054 by Elliot Ackerman and Admiral (Ret.) James Stavridis USN
Ghost fleet by P.W. Singer
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
00:46 Meet the Guest: Lemar Farhad
01:04 Transition to FAO: From Field to Strategy
02:04 First Impressions of FAOs
03:33 The Path to Monterey
04:36 Language Training at DLI
12:12 Unexpected Assignment: Malaysia
13:34 Experiences at the Malaysian Staff College
14:35 Return to the U.S. and Grad School
19:33 First Assignment at CENTCOM
21:20 Challenges and Lessons at CENTCOM
26:21 Mentorship and Professional Development
34:16 Transition to J2 at CENTCOM
36:34 Introduction to Central Asia Desk
37:05 Building Relationships in Central Asia
38:03 Challenges of Language and Culture
39:16 Innovative Security Cooperation Programs
41:21 Impact of COVID-19 on Operations
42:39 Personal Heritage and Career Impact
44:00 Father's Academic Journey
46:40 Early Life and Cultural Identity
47:51 Deployment to Afghanistan Post-9/11
48:53 Unique Assignment with Special Forces
01:05:37 Transition to MI and Multiple Deployments
01:07:52 Reconnecting with the Intelligence Community
01:08:37 Special Operations Command in Europe
01:09:08 First Country Team Assignment in Malaysia
01:11:20 Challenges with a Difficult Deputy
01:14:22 Leadership and Team Dynamics
01:20:50 Current Role in Korea: NEO Operations
01:39:48 The Importance of Reading and Fiction
01:45:28 Final Thoughts and Reflections

#27 - COL(R) USAF Matt Yocum

Join me for a conversation with USAF Col. (Ret.) Matt Yocum as we delve into his unique career trajectory, starting from his non-standard background in the Air Force's acquisition and engineering fields. Matt discusses his pivotal assignments, including his time in Israel as part of the Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program and later as an Air Force attaché, where he navigated through significant events like the Second Lebanon War. This episode also explores his role as a Commander's Action Group (CAG) director at CENTCOM, where he was instrumental in providing detailed and narratively rich reports on international engagements. Matt reflects on the importance of storytelling in military communication and its impact on effective diplomacy. The talk also covers his post-military career as a writer of comic books and graphic novels, highlighting his passion for the art form and his current projects, including a biographical graphic novel on a notable Pakistani figure. Throughout the episode, Matt emphasizes the significance of relationship-building, effective communication, and relentless helpfulness in both military and personal endeavors.
 
Links:
www.Hangar19Consulting.com
www.MattYocum.com
Closet World Kickstarter
 
Books:
The Twilight War by David Crist
Brief by Joe McCormick
Lawrence in Arabia by Scott Anderson
The New Map by Daniel Jurgen
Power Broker by Robert Caro
The Years of Lyndon Johnson by Robert Caro
The Vision by King, Waltaand Bellaire
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow by King, Evely and Lopes
Pluto: Urusawa x Tekuza by Nagasaki and Urasawa
Bone by Jeff Smith
 
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers
00:46 Meet Colonel Matt Yocum
01:15 Colonel Yocum’s Air Force Journey
01:59 The Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program (ESEP)
02:44 Life and Work in Israel
04:42 Challenges and Experiences in Israel
09:01 Language Learning and Cultural Insights
34:58 The Second Lebanon War
39:35 Observations and Responsibilities as an Attache
45:31 Career Transitions and Future Plans
50:37 Arrival in Amman, Jordan
50:46 The New Normal: ISIS Crisis
51:44 Embassy Life and Community
54:02 Building Relationships and Cooperation
55:19 Information Sharing and Collaboration
01:03:34 Training and Equipping the Jordanian Air Force
01:18:44 Commander's Action Group (CAG) Experience
01:37:51 Decision to Stay in CAG
01:39:06 Balancing Family and Duty
01:40:43 Returning to JSO and Preparing for Retirement
01:42:14 Final Assignment and Retirement Ceremony
01:45:37 Reflecting on a Military Career
01:47:30 Challenges and Triumphs in Promotions
01:55:37 Post-Military Career in Comics
02:02:18 The Art of Storytelling in Communication
02:14:07 Recommended Reads and Final Thoughts
 
 

#26 - FA59 COL Nathan Finney, Army Strategist

Join me for an interview with U.S. Army Colonel Nate Finney, an Army Strategist (FA59), discussing the roles and training of FA59 strategists, their relationship with FAOs, and the importance of building interdisciplinary teams. Finney shares insights from his career, including positions at HQDA, USARPAC, and Indo-Pacific Command, highlighting the need for strategists and FAOs to collaborate effectively. The conversation also explores Finney's involvement in founding writing and strategy-oriented organizations like the Strategy Bridge and the Military Writers Guild, emphasizing writing as a critical tool for professional development. The episode concludes with a discussion on recent changes in U.S.-China relations, China's military modernization, and the strategic challenges faced by the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific region.

#25 - COL Christian Werner

Join me for a conversation with Colonel Christian Werner, who currently serves at the U.S. Army War College. COL Werner shares his origin story of joining the Army influenced by his family's military background, his transition from Armor to FAO, and his extensive career path through various European assignments. He highlights his experiences in command and staff roles, the importance of language skills, and his impactful stint in Somalia as SDO/DATT. Werner also discusses his personal challenges, concepts like moral injury, and the importance of behavioral health. He explains the role and operations of the U.S. Military Observer Group and shares insights into SSC opportunities, language sustainment, and the rigorous BCAP/CCAP screening processes for command roles.