Episode 1: Shifting Power (26 June 2019)
In the pilot episode of Battle Rhythm Podcast, Steve and Stef introduce themselves and explain the purpose and format of the podcast. They discuss the end of Canada’s peacekeeping mission in Mali and the appointment of Canada’s first ambassador for Women, Peace and Security. In our Emerging Scholar segment, Stef speaks with James Anderson [12:12], a US Air Force intelligence officer and Fulbright Scholar on US-Canada security relations . Steve shares some of his thoughts on millennials in the debut of 'Steve's Peeves.' The feature interview guest is Dan Drezner [29:00], Professor of International Politics at Tufts University and Washington Post Columnist who offers his perspective on the frayed state of the liberal international order. Dan Drezner’s most recent book: The Ideas Industry: How Pessimists, Partisans, and Plutocrats are Transforming the Marketplace of Ideas. Movie Recommendation: War Games.
Episode 2: Feminist Futures for the CAF (10 July 2019)
In this episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and Stef provide updates on their research projects and recent travel. Discussing the news, Steve offers perspective on the political challenges of current Canada-China tensions and Stef highlights the recent appointment of Brig.-Gen. Jennie Carignan to command the NATO training mission in Iraq. In the emerging scholar segment, Stef speaks with Andrea Lane [8:10] about her research examining the experience of female combat soldiers in Canada. This episode’s featured interview is with Brig.-Gen. Jennie Carignan [18:10] who talks about leadership and affecting change in the military. Finally, in Steve’s Peeve’s, a plea about force. #NATO SHAPE #NMI #ERGOMAS #EISS
Episode 3: NATO, Boston for Berlin (24 July 2019)
In this episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and Stef provide updates on their current research projects and recent travel to Israel (Steve) and Holland (Stef). Discussing the news, Steve and Stef talk about Secretary General of NATO, General Stoltenberg’s recent visit to Canada and Canada’s contributions to NATO. They also discuss the recent accidental disclosure of location of U.S. nuclear weapons in Europe. In the emerging scholar segment, Stef speaks with Sara Greco [21:15] about her fascinating PhD dissertation on the salience of soft power mechanisms in power transitions amongst great power rivals, “The erosion of American diplomacy.” This episode’s featured interview is with Sara Bjerg Moller [31:30] who talks NATO in the Trump era. Finally, in Steve’s Peeve’s, Steve argues that presidential tweets matter!
Episode 4: Women Influencing Foreign Policy (8 August 2019)
In this episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef reveals she has been named Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel (HLCol) of the Princess of Wales’ Own Regiment. Discussing the news, Steve and Stef ponder the significance of Canada not being invited to join the British fleet amidst tensions with Iran. They go on to discuss Canada's efforts to replace the F18 as well as Turkey’s procurement of Russian air defence systems and its implications for NATO. They also analyse and offer their thoughts on the Heyder Beattie Sexual Misconduct Settlement. This episode features listener questions with responses from Steve and Stef. The Emerging Scholar segment is with Meagan Shoemaker [21:45] who discusses her research on how women’s deployment decisions and motivations are gendered. In the feature interview, Stef speaks with Sylvia Bashevkin [27:45] about her award-winning book Women as Foreign Policy Leaders. Finally, in Steve's Peeves, Steve discusses the problem of sexual misconduct in the US armed forces and the role of Congress on addressing it.
Episode 5: Learning and Adapting, or Not (21 August 2019)
This episode of Battle Rhythm is about adaptation and learning in international affairs. In the New and Noteworthy segment, Steve and Stef discuss the ongoing protests in Hong Kong and Canada’s response. They also examine the influence of celebrity diplomacy in light of the diplomatic crisis between Sweden and the US over A$AP Rocky and unpack Trump’s recent expression of interest in Greenland. As September approaches, Steve and Stef highlight what is exciting and challenging about a new academic term. Responding to a listener’s question, they recommend key readings for Canadians interested in defence and security. The Emerging Scholar segment is with Alexander Salt [19:30] whose research explores how lessons learned from military operations in WWII affected US military organizational change. In the feature interview, Steve and Stef speak with Christopher Ankersen [25:45] who considers the possibility that the international system may not bounce back from the Trump era. Finally, in Steve's Peeves, Steve offers his views on the gun debate in America.
Episode 6: The Interdisciplinarity of Insurgency / Return of the Students (4 September 2019)
In this episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and Stef start by discussing the highlights of their summer and the start of the semester. They move on to a discussion of the recent G7 meeting in Biarritz. In particular, they explore Trump’s approach to such meetings and Macron’s efforts at diplomacy with Iran. In a bonus segment, fitness expert FitCafé - Véronique Malo Fitness offers some tips on adopting good habits at the start of the semester. The Emerging Scholar interview is with Tanya Irwin [18:00] who talks about her fascinating research on rebel group taxation. In the feature interview, Steve speaks with Nada Bakos [27:00] about her new book, “The Targeter”, which chronicles her experiences at the CIA. Finally, in Steve's Peeves, some commentary from Steve on former Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis’s new book tour.
Episode 7: Extreme Embedding (18 September 2019)
In this episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and Stef start by discussing the security implications of the recent attack on the Saudi oil facility. They move on to analyze Trump’s decision to cancel Camp David talks with the Taliban and oust John Bolton as National Security Advisor. Returning closer to home, they discuss Trudeau’s interview with comedian, Hasan Minhaj and the impact of foreign policy on the impending federal elections. Steve and Stef also respond to a listener’s question on the role of the Canadian Armed Forces in shaping Canada’s foreign policy. The Emerging Scholar interview is with Aden Dur-e-Aden [21:45] who talks about her fascinating research on Islamist and white supremacist extremism. In the feature interview, Steve speaks with Tone Danielsen [29:15] about her work on embedding with the Norwegian Naval Special Operations Forces, “Making Warriors in a Global Era.” Finally, in Steve's Peeves a word about cancel culture and de-platforming.
Episode 8: Navigating Boundaries (2 October 2019)
In this episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve tells of his adventures in Petawawa as part of a military exercise:Exercise Collaborative Spirit Blogpost. Steve and Stef then comment on the Trudeau brownface/blackface scandal dominating Canadian headlines. They also discuss the United Nations General Assembly as well as the Ukraine scandal and impeachment proceedings rocking the Trump administration. In light of the recent Climate Marches across Canada, Steve and Stef highlight the defence and security implications of accelerating climate change. In the Emerging Scholar segment, Stef chats with Timothy Choi [17:30] who discusses his fascinating research on Maritime Strategy. The feature interview is with Philippe Lagassé [23:50] who talks about defence procurement in Canada and shares his peeves.
Episode 9: The View From Europe (16 October 2019)
In this episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and Stef talk about Turkey’s recent incursion against Kurdish forces in Northern Syria. They explore how the Trump administration’s foreign policy led to this moment and elaborate on the implications for NATO. In light of the impending Canadian election, Steve and Stef discuss the foreign policy positions of the main parties. In the Network Highlights segment, Steve speaks with Harleen Atwal [21:00] about the NATO Field School and Simulation Program. The feature interview is with Alice Pannier [25:45] who shares her expertise in European security politics. Finally, in Steve’s Peeves, some thoughts from Steve on the NBA pandering to China.
Episode 10: Security Transformations for Africans, By Africans (30 October 2019)
In the 10th episode of Battle Rhythm Podcast, Steve and Stef reflect on the recent Canadian election and consider what Canada’s defense and security policy might look like under a Liberal minority government. They also discuss recent protests in Iraq, their recent trips to Denver, Hamburg and Belgium and all things Halloween. The feature interview guest is Lindy Heinecken [22:30], who discusses transitions of peacekeepers when they come home, South Africa's Post-Apartheid Military: Lost in Transition and Transformation. Our Emerging Scholar segment has Stef speaking with Elikem Tsamenyi [15:00], about his research on security governance mechanisms within Africa. Steve shares some of his thoughts on the film adaptation of World War Z in Steve's Peeves.
Episode 11: Past Wars and Today’s Peace Fellows (13 November 2019)
In the 11th episode of Battle Rhythm Podcast, Steve and Stef reflect on Remembrance Day and events supporting Canada’s veterans. The feature interview [21:45] is extra special this episode as we have 11 guests for our 11th episode! Our guests are the 2019 Peace with Women Fellows who discuss a wide variety of issues from leadership and learning to recruitment and retention. Steve shares some of his thoughts on actively remembering through war museums in Steve's Peeves [53:30].
Fellows in order of appearance:
23:20: BG Lisa Ferris, NZ Defence Legal Services & Paz Magat, Director, Peace With Women Fellowship
29:10: Colonel Tracey Onufer, USAF, CoS SOF South & Commodore Solveig Krey, Norweigan Navy, Dep ACOS Ops
34:00: Colonel Debra Lovette, USAF, Human capital, Joint Force Space & Air Commodore Elanor Boekholt-o’Sullivan, Netherlands, Cyber Defence
38:20: LtColonel Joana Polekauskiene, Lithuania, instructor mil academy & Colonel Lysane Martel, RCAF professional development
42:30: Colonel Dr. Lale Baroschek, Germany, Recruitment & Colonel Solene le Floch, French Air Force, Human Resource manager
48:00: Captain Rachel Durbin, Australia, Navy, Future Force & Captain Fiona Shepherd, RN, ACOS Logistics, Operations and Plans
Episode 12: Forever Wars: Resilience and Readiness (27 November 2019)
In the 12th episode of the Battle Rhythm Podcast, Steve and Stef discuss WIIS-France and the Arctic and of course Trump. For our feature interview, we head back to the summer when Steve interviewed Chiara Ruffa [25:30] at the ERGOMAS conference in Lisbon discussing her book, Military Cultures in Peace and Stability Operations. This week’s Emerging Scholar interview is with Rebecca Jensen [19:00] who discusses her research on operational adaption as a dissertation fellow at Marine Corps University. In Steve’s Peeves [48:10], Steve shares some of his thoughts on silencing student criticism of China on campus.
Episode 13: International Order (8 December 2019)
In the 13th episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and Stef discuss the NATO leadership summit, along with the highlights and lowlights of the past year including this podcast! Spoiler alert: it’s a highlight. Stef speaks with Thomas Hughes [19:00] about his PhD research on NATO military exercises and we have an interview with Stephanie C. Hofmann [27:35] from this past summer in Lisbon, where they discuss regional security organizations.
Episode 14: 2019 Highlights (18 December 2019)
In this end of year episode, Steve and Stef reflect back on a few of their favorite moments during the inaugural year of Battle Rhythm. A big thanks to everyone who has given Battle Rhythm a listen, subscribed and shared! If you haven’t listened to an episode yet, this is a great intro to what its all about.
Episode 15: Looking Ahead (8 January 2020)
In the 15th episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and Stef discuss the implications of the US airstrike for the Canadian led NATO mission in Iraq, along with new year resolutions and Pokemon infrastructure. Steve speaks with Rachel Schmidt [22:55] about her PhD research on female rebel disengagement and we have an interview with CDSN Military Personnel co-directors, Irina Goldenberg and our very own Stéfanie von Hlatky [29:00] discussing the exciting plans they have coming up in CDSN Military Personnel Theme. Meanwhile, Steve [52:55] is peeved about international relations media coverage.
Episode 16: Climate Change & the Arctic (22 January 2020)
In the 16th episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and Stef discuss the aftermath of the Iran – US fallout and the implications for NATO, along with the mandate of Operation LENTUS. Our Feature Interview this week is with Year Ahead guest, Will Greaves [12:20] where we discuss Canada-US Relations and circumpolar politics. This week’s Peeve [44:12] is the false equivalence machine.
Episode 17: Global Hotspots (5 February 2020)
In the 17th episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and Stef discuss highlights from the CGAI conference in Ottawa this past week, the makings of a good conference, Canadian ISIS fighters captured in Afghanistan, NATO in Iraq, the NATO Policy on Preventing and Responding to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse and the CAF falling short of its target of a 25% female force. Our Capstone Preview features Emerging Scholar Ali Wyne [33:30], a researcher at RAND, who presented at KCIS last summer, on Great Power Competition. Our Feature Interview this week is with Year Ahead guest, Ayesha Ray [44:45] where we discuss her research including escalating tensions in Kashmir and the inclusion of women in the Indian armed forces. This week’s Peeve [1:03:00] is about the American electoral process. Mentioned: Stéfanie von Hlatky’s Countering Violent Extremism and Terrorism; Heidi Hardt & Stéfanie von Hlatky’s NATO's About-Face: Adaptation to Gender Mainstreaming in an Alliance Setting; Susan Bartels’ ‘Even peacekeepers expect something in return’: A qualitative analysis of sexual interactions between UN peacekeepers and female Haitians
Episode 18: Diversity & Inclusion (19 February 2020)
In the 18th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and our guest co-host this week, Jean-Christophe Boucher, fellow co-director of the CDSN and lead of the Civil – Military Relations theme, discuss NATO in the Middle East, the Munich Security Conference and Macron’s vision for a European nuclear defense strategy. Our Capstone Preview features Emerging Scholar Victoria Tait [24:30], a PhD candidate in the Political Science Department at Carleton University, who presented her paper at the last inter-university Seminar on Armed Forces and Society-Canada. Our Feature Interview this week is with Year Ahead guest, Shawn Skelly [33:35] Co-founder of Out in National Security and Commissioner, National Commission on Military, National, and Public Service, 2017-2020. This week’s Peeve is on hiatus as Steve is in Japan this week. Mentioned: Jean-Christophe Boucher and Kim Richard Nossal’s The Politics of War: Canada’s Afghanistan Mission, 2001–14; David Pugliese’s Ottawa Citizen piece, Canadian Forces nixes post about military "bling” but moves ahead with other initiatives to recruit women.
Episode 19: International Women’s Day (4 March 2020)
In the 19th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Stef discuss the Coronavirus as a security problem, Turkey invoking Article 4 (again), trepidation about the U.S. – Taliban deal and upcoming events. Our Capstone Preview features Emerging Scholar Rachel Babins [21:45], a Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst at a major Canadian bank, who presented her paper at the last Defence and Security Foresight Group Conference. Our Feature Interview this week is with WIIS - France’s President, Johanna Möhring and WIIS - Canada’s Vice – Chair, Gaëlle Rivard Piché [27:30] This week’s Peeve is on hiatus as we provide more info on our upcoming Summer Institute.
Episode 20: Battle Rhythm in a Time of Corona (18 March 2020)
In the 20th episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and our guest co-host this week, Anessa Kimball, fellow co-director of the CDSN and lead of the Security theme recap CDSN events and discuss governance under COVID, changes in the CAF leadership and finding creative ways to connect with students with social distancing. Our Emerging Scholar interview features CDSN Capstone Laureate, David Hofmann [39:30], Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of New Brunswick, who presented his paper at the last Gregg Centre Annual Conference. This week’s Peeve is on hiatus as we provide more info on our upcoming Summer Institute. Mentioned: Graham Allison’s Destined for War; Todd Sanders’ Global Collective Action.
Episode 21: SHAPE UP (1 April 2020)
In the 21st episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and Stef discuss CDS Vance’s letter including Operations LASER, IMPACT and UNIFIER, along with a hold on recruiting for the CAF and what the US Military should be doing in the ‘War on COVID’. Our Feature Interview this week is with Brigadier-General Greg Smith, [30:50] in Mons, Belgium. Mentioned: Aisha Ahmad’s Why You Should Ignore All That Coronavirus-Inspired Productivity Pressure; Devil's Brigade; Hyena Road; Strategic Strikes Back; World War Z
Episode 22: Arctic Security and Defence (15 April 2020)
In the 22nd episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Stef discuss the effects of COVID on security and defence for NATO, the UN and the CAF. Our Emerging Scholar & CDSN Capstone Laureate Mathieu Landriault [27:30], discuss his research on Canadian media in the Arctic. Our Feature Interview this week is with CDSN’s co-director Andrea Charron [36:15] where she and Steve discuss the Permanent Joint Board on Defence (PJBD), NORAD and Deter, Detect, Defeat. This week we introduce a new segment called RnR [58:00], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions. This week’s RnR picks are The Letter to the King on Netflix and Lee Child’s Jack Reacher series. Mentioned: A report by the Centre for Defence and Security Studies, University of Manitoba. The Permanent Joint Board on Defence (PJBD): How Permanent and Joint? Celebrating 80 Years of Cooperation.
Episode 23: Crisis Immersion (29 April 2020)
In the 23rd episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss the CDSN’s Covid Response Conference held online this week, the new NSA ie Network for Strategic Analysis and CAF readiness. Stef speaks with Year Ahead presenter Ashley A. Mattheis [25:00] about the use of online platforms to promote and mainstream extremist ideologies. For our Feature Interview this week Steve catches up with WIIS Chair and security scholar extraordinaire Aisha Ahmad [38:00]. In this week’s R&R segment Steve recommends 1.Where Eagles Dare 2.Community 3.Run Silent, Run Deep. Mentioned: Stephanie Carvin & Jessica Davis’ Broadening Canada’s security mandate to include health could create more problems than it solves, making unfounded assumptions and duplicating work; Anessa Kimball’s Impossible to Predict; CDAI’s Vimy Paper
Episode 24: Is the WHO Enough? (13 May 2020)
In the 24th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss the tragic Canadian Air Force CH-148 Cyclone helicopter crash, recommendations from the CDSN COVID Response Conference, what international travel may look like in the future, the attempted coup debacle in Venezuela as well as thoughts on the World Health Organization’s challenges and opportunities. Our Feature Interview this week is with Kelley Lee [33:45], Professor Lee teaches Globalization and Health with a particular focus on improving understanding of the impacts of global change on public health, and the need for collective action to tackle the risks and benefits arising from them, including World Health Organization reform. This week’s RnR segment [01:03:45], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions. This week’s R&R picks are 1. Five Came Back 2. Upload 3. Chad Millman, The Detonators. Mentioned: CDSN COVID Response Recommendations and Future Directions / COVID - Recommandations de réponse du CDSN et orientations futures; Alex Ward’s The “ridiculous” failed coup attempt in Venezuela, explained; Marie-Eve Desrosiers, Philippe Lagassé’s Analyzing the political pressures of COVID-19 will help us understand what a post-pandemic world might look like.
Episode 25: Leading with Compassion (27 May 2020)
In the 25th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss the ongoing quest for yeast, grief in isolation, CDSN’s upcoming Doctoral Seminar Series, China, arms control and allusions to a new Cold War. Our Feature Interview this week is with Isabelle Francois [35:30], the President of Women in International Security (WIIS) Brussels. This week’s RnR segment [01:09:30], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions. This week’s RnR picks are 1. Train to Busan 2. Santa Clarita Diet 3. Culture of Military Organizations
Episode 26: America vs. America (10 June 2020)
In the 26th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss current events, adapting military operations during a pandemic and the new Netflix Space Force series. Our Feature Interview this week is with Lindsay Cohn [30:45], Associate Professor - US Naval War College. This week’s RnR segment [01:04:00], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions. This week’s RnR picks are: 1. Little Monsters 2. Autobiography of Malcolm X 3. The Wire Mentioned: Lindsay Cohn’s Yes, Trump can send the military to shut down protests. Here’s what you need to know; Steve Saideman’s Civil-Military Relations are Broken
Episode 27: 1st Anniversary! (24 June 2020)
In the 27th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss military activities in Ukraine, John Bolton’s book, China and Canada’s effort to secure a UN Security Council seat. For our anniversary episode we have a special interview with Lieutenant-Colonel Sharlene Harding [37:45], Head Coach of the Canadian Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM) Women’s Basketball team. Our Feature Interview this week is with Natalie Sambhi [51:00], Founder and Executive Director of Verve Research and PhD scholar at the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, the Australian National University. This week’s RnR segment [01:14:15], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions. This week’s RnR picks: 1. Gordon Rudd’s Reconstructing Iraq 2. iZombie 3. The Great Mentioned: Stéfanie von Hlatky & Stephen Saideman’s "How COVID-19 has impacted Canadian Forces missions abroad”; Stéfanie von Hlatky’s “The arrest of Huawei executive has put Canada in tight spot”; World Military Games
Episode 28: Culture and the Soldier (8 July 2020)
In the 28th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss the Rideau Hall incursion, Hong Kong international security law, Russia in Afghanistan and Kosovo peace talks. Our Feature Interview this week is with H. Christian Breede [19:00], Deputy Director of CIDP @ Queen’s. This week’s RnR segment [54:00], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions. This week’s RnR picks are 1. They Shall Not Grow Old 2. The Floor is Lava 3. George Takei’s They Called Us Enemy Mentioned: H. Christian Breede’s Culture and the Soldier: Identities, Values, and Norms in Military Engagements; Stéfanie von Hlatky & H. Christian Breede ’s Going to War?: Trends in Military Interventions; H. Christian Breede, Stéphanie A.H. Bélanger and Stéfanie von Hlatky’s Transhumanizing War: Performance Enhancement and the Implications for Policy, Society, and the Soldier
Episode 29: Peacekeeping (22 July 2020)
In the 29th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss the CDSN’s teaching workshop, CAF Info Ops, John Ibbitson’s piece in the Globe & Mail and the CAF’s Hateful conduct policy. Our Feature Interview this week is with Sarah-Myriam Martin-Brûlé [23:20], Associate Professor at Bishop’s University. This week’s RnR segment [52:00], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions. This week’s RnR picks are: 1. No Man’s Land 2. Old Guard 3. Ethnic Groups in Conflict by Donald Horowitz. Mentioned: David Pugliese’s Canadian Forces 'information operations' pandemic campaign quashed after details revealed to top general; John Ibbitson’s Canadian gothic: A bleak world has left our foreign policy out of step with the times; Sarah-Myriam Martin-Brûlé’s Evaluating Peacekeeping Missions: A Typology of Success and Failure in International Interventions; Sarah-Myriam Martin-Brûlé’s The Power Politics of United Nations Peace Operations. Martin-Brûlé, S., Pingeot, L., & Pouliot, V. (2019). The Power Politics of United Nations Peace Operations. In WIVEL A. & PAUL T. (Eds.), International Institutions and Power Politics: Bridging the Divide (pp. 149-166).
Episode 30: RÉSEAU D'ANALYSE STRATÉGIQUE (5 August 2020)
In the 30th episode of Battle Rhythm, Steve and our guest co-host, Alvine Nintai discuss her time as CDSN’s first official staff member, the retirement of announcement of General Jon Vance, and troop reduction in Iraq and Germany. We have an emerging scholar interview this week with Maj T.J. Kelley [24:00], discussing his paper “Correlation of Military Trade with Selection of General and Flag Officers.” which was short-listed for JCSP 46, the Brigadier-General George Bell Medal in recognition of commitment and excellence in military writing as displayed by a student on the Joint Command and Staff Programme. Our feature interview guests are Justin Massie & Stéfanie von Hlatky [34:30], Co-directors of Réseau d'analyse stratégique. This week’s RnR segment [54:00], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions. This week’s RnR picks: 1. Caitlin Talmadge’s The Dictator's Army 2. Star Wars Rebels; 3. Eurovision. Mentioned: Justin Massie & Jonathan Paquin’s America's Allies and the Decline of US Hegemony
Episode 31: The North American and Arctic Defence & Security Network (19 August 2020)
In the 31st episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss Israel & the UAE, the US's Iran stance at the UN and the election in Belarus. We have an emerging scholar interview this week with Maj. Shaun D’Souza [22:00], discussing his paper “The Impact of Sino-Russian Collaboration on Arctic Governance.” which was short-listed for JCSP 46, the Brigadier-General George Bell Medal in recognition of commitment and excellence in military writing as displayed by a student on the Joint Command and Staff Programme. Our feature interview guest is Whitney Lackenbauer [30:30], Network Lead of North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network, NAADSN. This week’s RnR segment [55:15], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with baking! This week’s RnR picks: 1. Nigella Lawson 2. King Arthur Baking 3. If You Can't Bake It, Fake It?
Episode 32: Policy Relevance (2 September 2020)
In the 32nd episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss returning to campus, Trump losing support with the military, Sudan’s terrorism designation and Navalny’s poisoning. Our feature interview guests are CDSN member, Thomas Juneau and CDSN co-director, Philippe Lagassé, [24:35], discussing their recent journal article on the academia‐policy gap in Canadian defence. This week’s RnR segment [46:00], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions. This week’s RnR picks: TV: Money Heist; Movies: Guns Akimbo Books: Spenser series Mentioned: Leo Shane III for the Military Times: Trump’s popularity slips in latest Military Times poll — and more troops say they’ll vote for Biden / Thomas Juneau & Philippe Lagassé’s Bridging the academic‐policy gap in Canadian defence: What more can be done?
Episode 33: Right Wing Extremism (16 September 2020)
In the 33rd episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss commemorating 9/11, tensions between Greece and Turkey, the ongoing protests in Belarus, and their favourite outlets for security and defense analysis. We have an emerging scholar interview this week with LCdr R.G.S. Bell [25:00], discussing his paper “Canadian Maritime Defence Diplomacy: Canada’s Ambassadors at Sea.” which was short-listed for JCSP 46, the Brigadier-General George Bell Medal in recognition of commitment and excellence in military writing as displayed by a student on the Joint Command and Staff Programme. Our feature interview is with Sam Jackson [31:45], Assistant Professor in the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security, and Cybersecurity at the University at Albany. This week’s RnR segment [52:45], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions. This week’s RnR picks: Peter Krause and Ora Szekely’s Stories from the Field 2. TV: The Boys 3. TV: Behind the scenes: 'Star Wars: The Mandalorian'
LCdr Ryan Bell is a Naval Warfare Officer with the Canadian Armed Forces, as well as an MA candidate at the Canadian Forces College Joint Command and Staff Programme (JCSP)
Episode 34: Centre on Hate, Bias & Extremism (30th September 2020)
In the 34th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss the 75th session of the UN General Assembly, tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan and Trump’s refusal to commit to a peaceful transition of power. This week we have a new segment called ‘ask an expert’ where an expert will answer a question they are frequently asked, this week Victor Asal is answering ‘What are effective ways to teach about political violence?’ [18:20]. Our feature interview guest is Barbara Perry [25:20], Director for the Centre on Hate, Bias and Extremism. This week’s RnR segment [40:30], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. Get Duked 2. Bridging the Theory-Practice divide 3. Lovecraft Country Mentioned: Steve Saideman in Political Violence at a Glance / Mike Tierney on the academic-policy gap
Episode 35: Women as War Criminals; Gender, Agency, and Justice (14th October 2020)
In the 35th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss Canada halting arms sales to Turkey, sexual misbehaviour in Canadian Military Colleges and the latest statement from the Canadian Armed Forces about COVID-19. This week we have a new segment called ‘ask an expert’ where an expert will answer a question they are frequently asked, this week’s expert is Jeffrey Collins answering 'why are there so many problems in defence procurement?' [24:50] Our feature interview guest is Jessica Trisko Darden, Assistant Professor at the American University's School of International Service.[36:30] This week’s RnR segment [54:30], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. Motherless Brooklyn 2. Vampires vs. bronx/Attack the Block 3. Midway Mentioned: Izabela Steflja & Jessica Trisko Darden’s Women as War Criminals: Gender, Agency, and Justice / Jessica Trisko Darden’s Why is there Criticism of Disney’s ‘Mulan?’ / Roland Paris’ UK and Canada Find New Strength in an Old Alliance
Episode 36: Out in National Security (28th October 2020)
In the 36th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve discuss interference in the American election, sexual misconduct in the CAF, and costume ideas for Halloween. This week we have a new segment called ‘ask an expert’ where an expert will answer a question they are frequently asked, this week’s expert’s are Carmen Poulin & Lynne Goliquer answering During the LGBT Purge Campaign in the military, was it worse for the gay women or gay men soldiers? [19:20] Our feature interview guest is Luke Schleusener, Co-founder of Out in National Security.[36:00] This week’s RnR segment [1:02:15], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. Crazyheads 2. #Alive 3. Happy Death Day/2U 4.The Sentinel Mentioned: P-SEC Research Group: Gays & Lesbians in the Military and Their Partners / JC Boucher’s Twitter thread on the CDSN Survey on Canadian foreign policy and national defence
Episode 37: Remembrance Day (11th November 2020)
In the 37th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve talk about the US Election, Remembrance Day and the risk of a civil war in Ethiopia. This week we have a new segment called ‘ask an expert’ where an expert will answer a question they are frequently asked, this week Carmen Poulin & Lynne Goliquer answering ‘What was it like for “partners” of LGBT soldiers during the purge and the policy implications?’ [21:10]. Our feature interview guest is Brigadier-General Lise Bourgon [31:55], CDN Visiting Defence Fellow 2020-21&Women Peace and Security Champion in the CAF. This week’s RnR segment [54:35], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. The Longest Day 2. A Bridge Too Far 3. Nigella Lawson’s At My Table Mentioned: P-SEC Research Group: Gays & Lesbians in the Military and Their Partners / United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 /Elsie Initiative
Episode 38: The Year Ahead (25th November 2020)
In the 38th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve talk about the Year Ahead Conference, growing confrontation involving China and Trump’s last foreign policy moves. In preparation for our the CDSN’s upcoming annual Year Ahead Conference our feature interview guest is the keynote speaker Jacqueline O’Neill [22:10], Canada’s Ambassador of Women Peace and Security. This week’s RnR segment [53:30], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. Mysterious Island 2. Sandra Perron, Out Standing in the Field 3. Dumplin’ more Dolly!
Episode 39: Allies of Convenience (9th December 2020)
In the 39th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve talk about Biden’s Secretary of Defence pick, the role of the Canadian Military in rolling out the vaccine and 2020 highlights. Our feature interview guest is Evan Resnick [34:00], Assistant Professor at S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS). This week’s RnR segment [55:00], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. Daveed Diggs’ Puppy for Hanukkah 2. Dash & Lily 3. The Lego Star Wars Holiday Special 4. Ben Macintyre’s Operation Mincemeat: How a Dead Man and a Bizarre Plan Fooled the Nazis and Assured an Allied Victory Mentioned: Evan Resnick’s Allies of Convenience: A Theory of Bargaining in U.S. Foreign Policy / RAS-NSA conference registration and program
Episode 40: #NATGIRLSQUAD (13th January 2021)
In the 40th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve talk about the January 6th insurrection in the United States, the security implications of the pandemic and the new Chief of the Defence Staff. Our feature interview guest is Maggie Feldman-Piltch [22:15], Founder and CEO of Unicorn Strategies, an innovative human capital management widely known for its project, #NatSecGirlSquad. This week’s RnR segment [47:00], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. Palm Springs 2. We Can Be Heroes 3. WandaVision Mentioned: #NatSecGirlSquad
Episode 41: Military Design and Innovation (27th January 2021)
In the 41st episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve talk about Space Force, the elections in Uganda and the Governor General’s resignation. Our feature interview guests are Philippe Dufort & Philippe Beaulieu-Brossard [18:15], Co-leads of the MINDS Military Design and Innovation Collaboration Network. This week’s RnR segment [44:30], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. Into the Night 2. Enola Holmes 3. The New Mutants
Episode 42: Professional Military Education (10th February 2021)
In the 42nd episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve talk about the allegations of sexual misconduct raised against the former Chief of the Defence Staff and the coup in Myanmar. Our feature interview guest is Maj-Gen Craig Aitchison [20:45], Commander of the Canadian Defence Academy. This week’s RnR segment [55:45], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1.Lupin 2. Making of Mandalorian 3. Adventures in the Screen Trade by William Goldman
Episode 43: Working Together (24th February 2021)
In the 43rd episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve talk about the allegations of sexual misconduct against the former CDS, the NATO Defence Ministerial and the United States’ return to multilateralism. Today we have two feature interview guests from different ends of the partnership spectrum; Lcol Jamie Phillips [24:45], Commander of Operation PRESENCE- Mali, Task Force Bamako & guest interview with CDSN co-director, Dr. Andrea Charron & BrigGen Pete Fesler [35:20], Deputy Director of Operations, Headquarters North American Aerospace Defense Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado. This week’s RnR segment [50:00], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. Flora & Ulysses 2. Good Hair 3. Mont Ste. Marie
Episode 44: What Does Mentorship Look Like for the CAF? (10th March 2021)
In the 44th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve talk about the need for culture change within the Canadian Armed Forces, new appointments including the new VCDS and the one year anniversary of the COVID-19 Pandemic lockdown in Canada and its future implications. Today’s feature interview guest is Dr. Linna Tam-Seto [24:30], the CDSN’s first Postdoctoral Research Fellow. This week’s RnR segment [46:00], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. Moxie 2. This is Spinal Tap 3. Nancy Drew
Episode 45: Defence and Security Foresight Group (24th March 2021)
In the 45th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve talk about LCol Taylor’s public letter about misconduct in the Canadian Armed Forces, the heated exchange between Biden and Putin and Canada gaining allies over China’s ‘hostage diplomacy.’ Today’s feature interview guest is Dr. Bessma Momani [24:45], Director of the Defence and Security Foresight Group. This week’s RnR segment [45:00], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. Space 1999 2. The Coroner 3. Resident Alien
Episode 46: Multilateralism (7th April 2021)
In the 46th episode of Battle Rhythm, Stef and Steve talk about the sexual misconduct and assault allegations against Vice-Adm. Edmundson, Chinese ships swarming the South China Sea, and the increasingly deadly crackdown in Myanmar. Today’s feature interview guest is Dr. Bastien Giegerich [23:45], Director of Defence and Military Analysis at The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). This week’s RnR segment [51:20], where we will provide some levity in these trying times with entertainment reviews and suggestions; Steve’s RnR picks for the week are: 1. Bill and Ted Face the Music 2. Invincible 3. Harlan Cobden
