Reflections on Leadership and Geopolitics with Sir Mark Carleton-Smith (MDE603)

In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Sir Mark Carleton-Smith, former Chief of the General Staff of the British Army. We explored his journey from a young rugby player to a seasoned military leader, discussing the geopolitical shifts he's witnessed throughout his career. Sir Mark shared invaluable insights on leadership, emphasising the importance of character, trust, and empowering others. We delved into the challenges facing Western nations, including the need for increased defence spending and the reordering of European security. Sir Mark highlighted the importance of resilience in societies and armed forces, cautioning against using military interventions as social engineering tools. The conversation touched on the nature of free will, the value of studying history, and the complexities of modern warfare. Sir Mark stressed the need for clear national identities and values in an increasingly polarised world. We concluded with a poignant reflection on the possibility that our generation might not only be post-war but potentially pre-war, underscoring the critical importance of preparing and guiding the next generation for future challenges.