WPAOG Podcast

In this episode of the WPAOG Podcast, we sit down with Kathleen Widmer, class of 1983, and a 2025 Distinguished Graduate Award honoree. From helping launch the Women’s Lacrosse team as a cadet to leading in both the military and private sector, Widmer shares powerful stories of perseverance, leadership, and service. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to others and a belief that real leadership starts with humility and humanity.

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On this episode of the WPOG podcast, LTG (R) Reynold Hoover, CEO of LA28 and West Point class of 1983, unpacks the leadership, planning, and execution strategies powering the largest Olympic and Paralympic Games in history.

As the CEO of LA28, the Organizing Committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, Hoover oversees the planning, delivery, and execution of the Games since June of 2024. Hoover has held variou...

In this episode, Louis Gelinas, West Point Class of ‘11, shares how his Army experiences, especially managing people and operations under pressure, shaped his entrepreneurial path. Currently, the Director of Product at  Rivet — a workforce management platform for trade contractors — was born from a simple but powerful idea: solve a real-world problem with the tools he wished he had in uniform. Louis also highlights the crucial role...

What does it take to be a great leader? In this episode, host Jamie Enos sits down with Lieutenant General (Ret.) Benjamin Freakley to unpack the essence of leadership, trust, and lifelong service. From his days at West Point, class of 75’,  to commanding troops in combat, General Freakley shares hard-earned wisdom on building trust, listening to those around you, and leading with integrity. He also reflects on the unbreakable bond...

On this week’s episode, host Jamie Enos sits down with Brigadier General (Ret.) Jim Warner, Class of 1976, to explore a legacy of the Long Gray Line that spans generations. From his father’s improbable journey from a Depression-era farm boy to a four-star general to Warner’s path through West Point, this conversation is a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and commitment to service. Warner’s reflections on the Academy’s past an...

In this episode of the WPAOG podcast, we are honored to speak with retired LTG. Nadja West, a trailblazing leader and West Point graduate from the Class of 1982. LTG. West shares her journey from cadet to becoming the Army Surgeon General and the first Black woman to achieve the rank of Lieutenant General in the U.S. Army. Her experiences provide valuable insights into leadership, resilience, and the importance of service to others...

In this episode of the West Point Association of Graduates Broadcast Network, host Ian Faison sits down with General Robert B. Brown, retired four-star general and current President & CEO of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA). General Brown shares his inspiring journey to West Point, where he was recruited by legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, and delves into his experiences in leadership and service. His stories highli...

In this episode, we’re joined by Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Toven, Commander of the West Point Band, and Sergeant Major Carla Loy Song, a seasoned member of the band. Together, they dive into the legacy and impact of the West Point Band, an institution that has accompanied cadets through generations of milestones and ceremonies. The band, known as the "soundtrack to the cadet's 47-month experience," not only provides musical support...

In this episode, we’re joined by Major Floren Herrera, Class of 2013, the recipient of the 2024 Alexander R. Nininger Award for Valor at Arms, an honor recognizing his extraordinary courage and leadership. As a distinguished graduate of the United States Military Academy and an esteemed member of the elite Scout Rangers in the Philippines, we explore the historical connections between the US and Philippine military forces, tracing ...

In this episode, we dive into the transformative efforts of the Center for Enhanced Performance (CEP) at West Point with our distinguished guests, Colonel Darcy Schnack and Dr. Kat Longshore. Exploring the CEP’s mission, we focus on enhancing cadet performance through their key programs: performance psychology, academic excellence, and athletic academic support coordination. Discover how the CEP’s critical student success course in...

Join us in this insightful episode with special host, COL Mike Kloepper, Class of 1997, as we welcome GEN(R) Stanley McChrystal, Class of 1976 and guest speaker for the Class of 2026 Affirmation Ceremony, who shares his transformative journey from a struggling cadet to a successful Army career.This conversation opens with the profound impact of mentorship, particularly through the influence of MAJ Dave Borato, a pivotal figure in t...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Lee Anderson, Class of 1961, as we explore his remarkable journey from his childhood in Minneapolis to his influential career and philanthropic efforts. Anderson shares intimate details of his upbringing with his father's transformation from an orphaned Swedish immigrant to a successful plumber and his mother's time in an orphanage. Discover how his father and half brother led him to West ...

Join us for an inspiring journey as we sit down with Tom Lough class of and Craig Gilbert class of ‘78, two Olympians, who share their remarkable paths to both athletic and military excellence!

Tom, discovered modern pentathlon at the academy, leading him to compete in the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. His career includes service in Vietnam, Korea, and Germany, earning him a Purple Heart and Bronze Star. 

Craig, transitioned from footba...

Join us as we sit down with the inspiring Sammy Sullivan, a West Point graduate and member of the USA Women’s Olympic Rugby 7’s team! She shares her unexpected journey to West Point to discover a passion for rugby, Sammy's story is one of determination and resilience. Listen in as she recounts the unique experience of applying to West Point alongside her twin brother, both of whom were accepted, and how the supportive environment o...

Join us as we delve into the remarkable career of Ambassador Karl Eikenberry, beginning with his formative years in Goldsboro, North Carolina, and his decision to attend West Point. Eikenberry shares how a pivotal encounter with Major Tom Griffin, along with the unwavering support of his parents and a dedicated congressman, led him to the United States Military Academy. At West Point, he distinguished himself as a dedicated cadet, ...

In this episode, COL (R) Mark Bieger ’91, President and CEO of the West Point Association of Graduates, and Izzy Wolf, Alumni Services Manager discuss the impact of the 2024 Founders Day events and why they are critical for strengthening the Grip of the Long Gray Line.

COL (R) Mark Bieger ’91 graduated from the United States Military Academy with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. After commissioning as an Infantry officer,...

Join us for a truly captivating conversation with the remarkable Alma Cooper, who not only wears the sash as Miss Michigan 2024 but also serves as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army. Alma's journey is one of dedication and legacy, beginning with her mother's nudge towards the Summer Leader Experience at West Point, and culminating in her unwavering commitment to military service, inspired by her father's footsteps.

Alma recalls the transf...

Join us as we welcome Ian Winer, class of 1996, managing director of investor relations at Disruptive, as he shares his unique story of commitment, transformation, and resilience. 

Ian recounts his journey to West Point, a path paved thanks to his skills on the rink playing ice hockey and his affinity for the Academy's core values that resonated deeply with his personal aspirations. Ian offers a perspective on the challenges and tri...

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Led Klosky, Professor of Civil Engineering at West Point and the Dean’s Executive Agent for Design and Construction! Dr. Klosky takes us through his journey to West Point, discussing his commitment to equipping today’s Cadets with the necessary skills and leadership for their future roles through learning and inspiring innovation in tomorrow’s warriors.

We explore the groundbreaking Cyber and Eng...