November 12, 2024 • 23 mins
From a military family in Florida to the highest levels of national security, this episode explores the remarkable journey of Michael Waltz - Green Beret, congressman, and newly appointed national security advisor. We delve into his combat experiences in Afghanistan, his groundbreaking role as the first Green Beret in Congress, and his latest appointment by President-elect Trump. Featuring insights from his books and military career, this episode reveals how Waltz's Special Forces background and policy expertise have shaped his approach to America's most pressing security challenges. Join us for this fascinating look at a warrior-diplomat whose life embodies the intersection of military service and public leadership.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Michael George Glen Waltz's journey from a military officer to
a prominent political figure exemplifies the intersection of military service
and public leadership in American politics. Born on January thirty first,
nineteen seventy four, in Boynton Beach, Florida, Waltz's early life
was shaped by his family's deep connection to military service.
(00:23):
Raised by a single mother in Jacksonville, he grew up
in a household that embodied the values of service and sacrifice,
with both his father and grandfather serving as Navy chiefs.
The foundation of Waltz's leadership journey was laid at the
Virginia Military Institute, where he distinguished himself academically, graduating with
(00:44):
honors and earning a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies.
This educational background would later prove invaluable in his roles
spanning military strategy, foreign policy, and national security. Upon On graduation,
Waltz embarked on a military career that would define much
(01:05):
of his professional identity. His commission as an Army lieutenant
marked the beginning of a remarkable journey through the ranks
of America's elite military units. The completion of Ranger School
one of the military's most challenging training programs demonstrated his
exceptional physical and mental fortitude. However, it was his selection
(01:29):
for and service with the Green Berets that truly set
him apart as a Special Forces officer. Waltz's operational experience
spanned some of the most challenging regions and conflicts of
the modern era. His multiple combat tours in Afghanistan came
at a crucial time in America's longest war, where he
(01:51):
witnessed first hand the complexities of counterinsurgency operations and the
challenges of nation building in a war torn country. His
service extended beyond Afghanistan to various operations in the Middle
East and Africa, regions that would later inform his perspectives
on foreign policy and national security. The award of four
(02:15):
Bronze Stars, including two for Valor, speaks volumes about Waltz's
courage and leadership under fire. These decorations, among the military's
highest honors for bravery and meritorious service, reflect instances where
he distinguished himself through heroic or meritorious achievement in combat operations.
(02:39):
The two Bronze Stars specifically awarded for Valor indicate actions
of particular bravery and leadership in the face of enemy fire.
Waltz's transition from the battlefield to the Pentagon marked a
significant evolution in his career, bridging the gap between tactical
military operations and strategic policy formulation. As a Defense policy
(03:03):
director under Secretaries of Defense Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates,
he gained invaluable insight into the highest levels of military
decision making and national security policy. This position allowed him
to view military operations from a strategic perspective, understanding how
(03:25):
tactical decisions on the ground intersected with broader national security objectives.
His subsequent role in the White House as Vice President
Dick Cheney's counter terrorism adviser further expanded his influence in
national security policy. This position placed him at the nexus
(03:45):
of intelligence, military operations, and policy decisions, providing him with
a comprehensive understanding of the national security apparatus and the
complexities of counter terrorism operations in the post most nine
to eleven era. The year twenty eighteen marked another significant
milestone in Waltz's career when he was elected to represent
(04:09):
Florida's sixth congressional district in the U. S House. Of Representatives.
His election was historic, as he became the first Green
Beret to serve in Congress, bringing a unique perspective to
legislative discussions on military and foreign policy matters. His appointment
to key committees the House Armed Services Committee, the House
(04:30):
Foreign Affairs Committee, and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence
positioned him to influence critical decisions on national security, defense policy,
and intelligence matters. As a Congressman, Waltz has leveraged his
military and policy experience to contribute to debates on national security,
(04:52):
veterans affairs, and foreign policy. His first hand experience in
combat operations, combined with his expertise, has made him a
respected voice on matters of national defense and international relations.
His committee assignments have allowed him to shape legislation affecting
(05:12):
military readiness, veteran care, and America's strategic posture in an
increasingly complex global environment. Waltz's influence extends beyond his legislative
work through his literary contributions. His first book, Warrior Diplomat,
A Green Berets Battles from Washington to Afghanistan, offers unique
(05:36):
insights into the challenges of modern warfare and the intersection
of military operations with diplomatic efforts. The book draws from
his personal experiences as both a Special Forces officer and
a policymaker, providing readers with a rare perspective on the
complexities of modern conflict and national security decision made. His
(06:01):
second book, Hard Truths, Think and Lead Like a Green Beret,
further demonstrates his commitment to sharing leadership lessons learned from
his military service. The book translates special forces principles into
practical leadership guidance, reflecting Waltz's belief in the broader applicability
of military leadership principles to civilian contexts. The announcement of
(06:25):
Waltz's selection as National Security Advisor by President elect Donald
Trump in November twenty twenty four represents a significant development
in his career trajectory. This appointment recognizes his unique combination
of military experience, policy expertise, and legislative understanding. The role
(06:46):
of national security advisor requires a delicate balance of military knowledge,
diplomatic acumen, and political savvy, qualities that Waltz has demonstrated
throughout his career. Waltz's personal life reflects the same commitment
to service that characterizes his professional career. His marriage to
(07:07):
doctor Julia Nishaiwat, herself a combat veteran and former Homeland
Security adviser, creates a powerful partnership of two individuals dedicated
to public service and national security. Their residence in Saint
John's County, Florida, with their two children grounds them in
the community they serve while maintaining their connections to national
(07:32):
security and policy circles. The impact of Waltz's military service
on his approach to policy and leadership cannot be overstated.
His experiences as a Green Beret, particularly in combat operations,
have shaped his understanding of the human cost of policy
decisions and the importance of well considered strategic planning. This
(07:56):
perspective has been evident in his congressional work, where he
has advocated for military readiness, veteran support, and strategic clarity
in American foreign policy. Waltz's journey from a military officer
to a national security adviser exemplifies the evolving nature of
(08:16):
public service in American politics. His career demonstrates how military
service can provide a foundation for effective political leadership and
policy expertise. As a Green Beret, he learned the importance
of adaptability, strategic thinking, and decisive action skills that have
(08:39):
proved valuable in his political career and policy roles. His
work in Congress has been characterized by a focus on
national security issues and a commitment to maintaining America's military readiness.
As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, he
has been involved in shaping defense policy and ensuring that
(09:01):
the military has the resources and support needed to maintain
operational effectiveness. His position on the House Foreign Affairs Committee
has allowed him to influence American diplomatic efforts and international relationships,
while his role on the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence
has given him insight into the critical intelligence aspects of
(09:24):
national security. Throughout his career, Waltz has demonstrated an ability
to bridge the gap between military operations and policy implementation.
His experience as both a combat leader and a policymaker
has given him a unique perspective on the challenges facing
American national security. This combination of practical military experience and
(09:48):
policy expertise has made him a valuable voice in discussions
about America's role in the world and the future of
American military strategy. The selection of Waltz as National Security
Adviser marks a new chapter in his career of public service.
In this role, he will be responsible for coordinating national
(10:10):
security policy across various government agencies and advising the President
on critical security matters. His background as a Green Beret,
policymaker and congressmen provides him with a comprehensive understanding of
the various aspects of national security decision making. Waltz's story
(10:33):
is also one of personal resilience and adaptation. From his
early years being raised by a single mother to his
achievements in the military and politics, he has demonstrated the
ability to overcome challenges and succeed in diverse environments. His
marriage to doctor Julian Nishaiwat creates a partnership that combines
(10:53):
their shared experiences in military service and national security policy, strength,
and their ability to contribute to public service. The impact
of Waltz's career extends beyond his personal achievements. As the
first Green Beret to serve in Congress, he has helped
pave the way for other veterans to transition into political
(11:15):
leadership roles. His success demonstrates the value of military experience
in political office and the importance of having diverse perspectives
in national security discussions. Looking ahead, Waltz's role as National
Security Advisor will likely draw upon all aspects of his
(11:36):
varied career. His military experience provides him with an understanding
of operational realities, his policy work gives him insight into
the strategic aspects of national security, and his congressional service
offers perspective on the legislative and political dimensions of security decisions.
(11:56):
Throughout his career, Waltz has maintained a focus on the
intersection of military operations and policy implementation. His first hand
experience with the challenges of modern warfare, combined with his
understanding of policy formulation and legislative processes, positions him uniquely
to address the complex security challenges facing the United States.
(12:19):
His progression from special Forces officer to congressman to National
security adviser reflects the evolving nature of national security leadership
in an increasingly complex global environment. Michael Waltz's career exemplifies
the modern American public servant, someone who has served in
multiple capacities, each role building upon the experiences and lessons
(12:43):
of the previous ones. His journey from the battlefields of
Afghanistan to the halls of Congress and now to the
position of National Security Adviser, demonstrates the continuing importance of
military experience in shaping national security policy and the enduring
value of public service in American society. Waltz's leadership philosophy,
(13:09):
as evidenced in his books and public service, draws heavily
from his special forces background. The Green Berets are known
for their ability to operate in complex, ambiguous environments while
building relationships with local populations and achieving strategic objectives with
limited resources. This experience has informed Waltz's approach to both
(13:33):
legislative work and policy formation, emphasizing the importance of understanding
local contexts and building sustainable solutions to security challenges. His
experience in Afghanistan particularly shaped his views on American foreign
policy and counterinsurgency operations. Having served multiple combat tours, Waltz
(13:59):
gained first hand insight into the challenges of fighting an
insurgency while attempting to build stable governmental institutions. This experience
has made him a valuable voice in congressional debates about
military strategy, counter terrorism operations, and foreign assistance programs. During
(14:20):
his time in Congress, Waltz has been particularly vocal about
the importance of maintaining American military readiness in the face
of evolving global threats. His position on the House Armed
Services Committee has allowed him to influence defense policy and
military procurement decisions, ensuring that American forces have the resources
(14:44):
and capabilities needed to meet current and future challenges. His
advocacy for military modernization and readiness reflects his understanding of
the changing nature of warfare and the importance of maintaining
technology superiority. The combination of his military background and policy
(15:05):
expertise has made Waltz particularly effective in addressing complex national
security challenges. His experience as a Green Beret gave him
an understanding of unconventional warfare and counter terrorism operations, while
his work in the Pentagon and White House provided insight
into the policy making process and the importance of coordinating
(15:29):
various elements of national power. Waltz's role as Vice President
Cheney's counter Terrorism advisor was particularly significant in shaping his
understanding of the relationship between intelligence operations and policy decisions.
This position required him to synthesize information from various intelligence
(15:52):
agencies and military sources to inform policy recommendations, an experience
that would prove valuable in his life. Later roles in
Congress and as National Security Advisor in Congress, Waltz has
been known for his ability to work across party lines
on national security issues, Recognizing that America's security challenges require
(16:15):
bipartisan solutions. His approach to legislative work has been characterized
by a focus on practical solutions rather than partisan rhetoric,
drawing on his military experience to build consensus on critical
security issues. The selection of Waltz as National Security Advisor
(16:35):
represents a recognition of the importance of having leaders who
understand both the operational and policy aspects of national security.
His unique combination of combat experience, policy expertise, and legislative
understanding positions him well to coordinate the various elements of
(16:56):
America's national security apparatus and provides sound advice to the
President on critical security matters. His marriage to doctor Julia
Nischewat adds another dimension to his national security expertise. As
a combat veteran herself and former Homeland Security adviser, doctor
Nischewat brings complementary experience and expertise to their partnership. Their
(17:20):
shared background in military service and national security policy creates
a unique perspective on the challenges facing America's security institutions.
Waltz's commitment to public service extends beyond his official roles.
He has been active in veterans' advocacy efforts, working to
(17:42):
ensure that those who have served receive the support and
resources they need. His own experience as a veteran has
made him particularly sensitive to the challenges facing military personnel
transitioning to civilian life, and the importance of providing adequate
support for veterans and their families. Throughout his career, Waltz
(18:04):
has maintained a focus on the importance of American leadership
in global affairs. His experience in combat operations and policy
formation has convinced him of the need for strong American
engagement in international affairs, while also recognizing the importance of
building effective partnerships with allies and working through multilateral institutions
(18:29):
when appropriate. As National Security Advisor, Waltz faces the challenge
of helping to coordinate America's response to an increasingly complex
set of global threats. These include traditional military challenges from
near peer competitors, ongoing terrorist threats, cybersecurity concerns, and the
(18:50):
impact of emerging technologies on national security. His background in
special forces operations and his experience in policy formation providing
him with valuable perspective on addressing these multifaceted challenges. The
evolution of Waltz's career from special Forces officer to national
security adviser reflects broader changes in American security policy since
(19:13):
the September eleventh attax. His experience spans the full spectrum
of American security challenges, from direct combat operations to strategic
policy formation. This breadth of experience positions him well to
help guide American security policy in an era of increasing
(19:33):
complexity and uncertainty. Waltz's approach to national security is informed
by his understanding of the importance of integrating various elements
of national power. His experience in military operations, policy formation,
and legislative oversight has given him insight into how different
aspects of national security policy must work together to achieve
(19:57):
strategic objectives. This integrated approach is particularly important in addressing
contemporary security challenges that often cross traditional bureaucratic boundaries. His
role as an author has allowed him to share his
insights and experiences with a broader audience through his books.
(20:18):
Waltz has contributed to public understanding of the challenges facing
American security policy and the importance of effective leadership in
addressing these challenges. His writing reflects both his practical experience
in combat operations and his understanding of the policy making process.
(20:39):
The significance of Waltz's career extends beyond his individual achievements.
As the first Green Beret to serve in Congress and
now as National Security Adviser, he represents a new generation
of military leaders who have successfully transitioned to senior policy positions.
(21:00):
His success demonstrates the value of combining operational military experience
with policy expertise and political acumen. Looking to the future,
Waltz's role as National Security Advisor will require him to
help navigate an increasingly complex global security environment. The challenges
(21:20):
facing American security policy include traditional military threats, terrorism, cybersecurity concerns,
and the impact of emerging technologies. His background in special
forces operations and his experience in policy formation provide him
with valuable perspective on addressing these multifaceted challenges. The appointment
(21:45):
of Waltz's National Security Advisor also reflects a recognition of
the importance of having leaders who understand both the operational
and strategic aspects of national security. His unique combination of
combat experience, policy expertise, and legislative understanding positions him well
(22:07):
to coordinate the various elements of America's national security apparatus
and provide sound advice to the President on critical security matters.
Throughout his career, Waltz has demonstrated an ability to adapt
to changing circumstances while maintaining a focus on core principles
of leadership and service. His journey from special forces officer
(22:31):
to national security advisor reflects both personal growth and an
evolving understanding of national security challenges. As he takes on
this new role, his experience and expertise will be crucial
in helping to shape America's response to current and future
security challenges. Thank you for listening to this in depth
(22:55):
profile of Michael Waltz. If you enjoyed this episode, please
don't forget yet to subscribe to hear more compelling stories
about influential leader's shaping America's future. This episode was brought
to you by Quiet Please Podcast Networks. Stay tuned for
our next episode.
Michael George Glen Waltz's journey from a military officer to
a prominent political figure exemplifies the intersection of military service
and public leadership in American politics. Born on January thirty first,
nineteen seventy four, in Boynton Beach, Florida, Waltz's early life
was shaped by his family's deep connection to military service.
(00:23):
Raised by a single mother in Jacksonville, he grew up
in a household that embodied the values of service and sacrifice,
with both his father and grandfather serving as Navy chiefs.
The foundation of Waltz's leadership journey was laid at the
Virginia Military Institute, where he distinguished himself academically, graduating with
(00:44):
honors and earning a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies.
This educational background would later prove invaluable in his roles
spanning military strategy, foreign policy, and national security. Upon On graduation,
Waltz embarked on a military career that would define much
(01:05):
of his professional identity. His commission as an Army lieutenant
marked the beginning of a remarkable journey through the ranks
of America's elite military units. The completion of Ranger School
one of the military's most challenging training programs demonstrated his
exceptional physical and mental fortitude. However, it was his selection
(01:29):
for and service with the Green Berets that truly set
him apart as a Special Forces officer. Waltz's operational experience
spanned some of the most challenging regions and conflicts of
the modern era. His multiple combat tours in Afghanistan came
at a crucial time in America's longest war, where he
(01:51):
witnessed first hand the complexities of counterinsurgency operations and the
challenges of nation building in a war torn country. His
service extended beyond Afghanistan to various operations in the Middle
East and Africa, regions that would later inform his perspectives
on foreign policy and national security. The award of four
(02:15):
Bronze Stars, including two for Valor, speaks volumes about Waltz's
courage and leadership under fire. These decorations, among the military's
highest honors for bravery and meritorious service, reflect instances where
he distinguished himself through heroic or meritorious achievement in combat operations.
(02:39):
The two Bronze Stars specifically awarded for Valor indicate actions
of particular bravery and leadership in the face of enemy fire.
Waltz's transition from the battlefield to the Pentagon marked a
significant evolution in his career, bridging the gap between tactical
military operations and strategic policy formulation. As a Defense policy
(03:03):
director under Secretaries of Defense Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates,
he gained invaluable insight into the highest levels of military
decision making and national security policy. This position allowed him
to view military operations from a strategic perspective, understanding how
(03:25):
tactical decisions on the ground intersected with broader national security objectives.
His subsequent role in the White House as Vice President
Dick Cheney's counter terrorism adviser further expanded his influence in
national security policy. This position placed him at the nexus
(03:45):
of intelligence, military operations, and policy decisions, providing him with
a comprehensive understanding of the national security apparatus and the
complexities of counter terrorism operations in the post most nine
to eleven era. The year twenty eighteen marked another significant
milestone in Waltz's career when he was elected to represent
(04:09):
Florida's sixth congressional district in the U. S House. Of Representatives.
His election was historic, as he became the first Green
Beret to serve in Congress, bringing a unique perspective to
legislative discussions on military and foreign policy matters. His appointment
to key committees the House Armed Services Committee, the House
(04:30):
Foreign Affairs Committee, and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence
positioned him to influence critical decisions on national security, defense policy,
and intelligence matters. As a Congressman, Waltz has leveraged his
military and policy experience to contribute to debates on national security,
(04:52):
veterans affairs, and foreign policy. His first hand experience in
combat operations, combined with his expertise, has made him a
respected voice on matters of national defense and international relations.
His committee assignments have allowed him to shape legislation affecting
(05:12):
military readiness, veteran care, and America's strategic posture in an
increasingly complex global environment. Waltz's influence extends beyond his legislative
work through his literary contributions. His first book, Warrior Diplomat,
A Green Berets Battles from Washington to Afghanistan, offers unique
(05:36):
insights into the challenges of modern warfare and the intersection
of military operations with diplomatic efforts. The book draws from
his personal experiences as both a Special Forces officer and
a policymaker, providing readers with a rare perspective on the
complexities of modern conflict and national security decision made. His
(06:01):
second book, Hard Truths, Think and Lead Like a Green Beret,
further demonstrates his commitment to sharing leadership lessons learned from
his military service. The book translates special forces principles into
practical leadership guidance, reflecting Waltz's belief in the broader applicability
of military leadership principles to civilian contexts. The announcement of
(06:25):
Waltz's selection as National Security Advisor by President elect Donald
Trump in November twenty twenty four represents a significant development
in his career trajectory. This appointment recognizes his unique combination
of military experience, policy expertise, and legislative understanding. The role
(06:46):
of national security advisor requires a delicate balance of military knowledge,
diplomatic acumen, and political savvy, qualities that Waltz has demonstrated
throughout his career. Waltz's personal life reflects the same commitment
to service that characterizes his professional career. His marriage to
(07:07):
doctor Julia Nishaiwat, herself a combat veteran and former Homeland
Security adviser, creates a powerful partnership of two individuals dedicated
to public service and national security. Their residence in Saint
John's County, Florida, with their two children grounds them in
the community they serve while maintaining their connections to national
(07:32):
security and policy circles. The impact of Waltz's military service
on his approach to policy and leadership cannot be overstated.
His experiences as a Green Beret, particularly in combat operations,
have shaped his understanding of the human cost of policy
decisions and the importance of well considered strategic planning. This
(07:56):
perspective has been evident in his congressional work, where he
has advocated for military readiness, veteran support, and strategic clarity
in American foreign policy. Waltz's journey from a military officer
to a national security adviser exemplifies the evolving nature of
(08:16):
public service in American politics. His career demonstrates how military
service can provide a foundation for effective political leadership and
policy expertise. As a Green Beret, he learned the importance
of adaptability, strategic thinking, and decisive action skills that have
(08:39):
proved valuable in his political career and policy roles. His
work in Congress has been characterized by a focus on
national security issues and a commitment to maintaining America's military readiness.
As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, he
has been involved in shaping defense policy and ensuring that
(09:01):
the military has the resources and support needed to maintain
operational effectiveness. His position on the House Foreign Affairs Committee
has allowed him to influence American diplomatic efforts and international relationships,
while his role on the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence
has given him insight into the critical intelligence aspects of
(09:24):
national security. Throughout his career, Waltz has demonstrated an ability
to bridge the gap between military operations and policy implementation.
His experience as both a combat leader and a policymaker
has given him a unique perspective on the challenges facing
American national security. This combination of practical military experience and
(09:48):
policy expertise has made him a valuable voice in discussions
about America's role in the world and the future of
American military strategy. The selection of Waltz as National Security
Adviser marks a new chapter in his career of public service.
In this role, he will be responsible for coordinating national
(10:10):
security policy across various government agencies and advising the President
on critical security matters. His background as a Green Beret,
policymaker and congressmen provides him with a comprehensive understanding of
the various aspects of national security decision making. Waltz's story
(10:33):
is also one of personal resilience and adaptation. From his
early years being raised by a single mother to his
achievements in the military and politics, he has demonstrated the
ability to overcome challenges and succeed in diverse environments. His
marriage to doctor Julian Nishaiwat creates a partnership that combines
(10:53):
their shared experiences in military service and national security policy, strength,
and their ability to contribute to public service. The impact
of Waltz's career extends beyond his personal achievements. As the
first Green Beret to serve in Congress, he has helped
pave the way for other veterans to transition into political
(11:15):
leadership roles. His success demonstrates the value of military experience
in political office and the importance of having diverse perspectives
in national security discussions. Looking ahead, Waltz's role as National
Security Advisor will likely draw upon all aspects of his
(11:36):
varied career. His military experience provides him with an understanding
of operational realities, his policy work gives him insight into
the strategic aspects of national security, and his congressional service
offers perspective on the legislative and political dimensions of security decisions.
(11:56):
Throughout his career, Waltz has maintained a focus on the
intersection of military operations and policy implementation. His first hand
experience with the challenges of modern warfare, combined with his
understanding of policy formulation and legislative processes, positions him uniquely
to address the complex security challenges facing the United States.
(12:19):
His progression from special Forces officer to congressman to National
security adviser reflects the evolving nature of national security leadership
in an increasingly complex global environment. Michael Waltz's career exemplifies
the modern American public servant, someone who has served in
multiple capacities, each role building upon the experiences and lessons
(12:43):
of the previous ones. His journey from the battlefields of
Afghanistan to the halls of Congress and now to the
position of National Security Adviser, demonstrates the continuing importance of
military experience in shaping national security policy and the enduring
value of public service in American society. Waltz's leadership philosophy,
(13:09):
as evidenced in his books and public service, draws heavily
from his special forces background. The Green Berets are known
for their ability to operate in complex, ambiguous environments while
building relationships with local populations and achieving strategic objectives with
limited resources. This experience has informed Waltz's approach to both
(13:33):
legislative work and policy formation, emphasizing the importance of understanding
local contexts and building sustainable solutions to security challenges. His
experience in Afghanistan particularly shaped his views on American foreign
policy and counterinsurgency operations. Having served multiple combat tours, Waltz
(13:59):
gained first hand insight into the challenges of fighting an
insurgency while attempting to build stable governmental institutions. This experience
has made him a valuable voice in congressional debates about
military strategy, counter terrorism operations, and foreign assistance programs. During
(14:20):
his time in Congress, Waltz has been particularly vocal about
the importance of maintaining American military readiness in the face
of evolving global threats. His position on the House Armed
Services Committee has allowed him to influence defense policy and
military procurement decisions, ensuring that American forces have the resources
(14:44):
and capabilities needed to meet current and future challenges. His
advocacy for military modernization and readiness reflects his understanding of
the changing nature of warfare and the importance of maintaining
technology superiority. The combination of his military background and policy
(15:05):
expertise has made Waltz particularly effective in addressing complex national
security challenges. His experience as a Green Beret gave him
an understanding of unconventional warfare and counter terrorism operations, while
his work in the Pentagon and White House provided insight
into the policy making process and the importance of coordinating
(15:29):
various elements of national power. Waltz's role as Vice President
Cheney's counter Terrorism advisor was particularly significant in shaping his
understanding of the relationship between intelligence operations and policy decisions.
This position required him to synthesize information from various intelligence
(15:52):
agencies and military sources to inform policy recommendations, an experience
that would prove valuable in his life. Later roles in
Congress and as National Security Advisor in Congress, Waltz has
been known for his ability to work across party lines
on national security issues, Recognizing that America's security challenges require
(16:15):
bipartisan solutions. His approach to legislative work has been characterized
by a focus on practical solutions rather than partisan rhetoric,
drawing on his military experience to build consensus on critical
security issues. The selection of Waltz as National Security Advisor
(16:35):
represents a recognition of the importance of having leaders who
understand both the operational and policy aspects of national security.
His unique combination of combat experience, policy expertise, and legislative
understanding positions him well to coordinate the various elements of
(16:56):
America's national security apparatus and provides sound advice to the
President on critical security matters. His marriage to doctor Julia
Nischewat adds another dimension to his national security expertise. As
a combat veteran herself and former Homeland Security adviser, doctor
Nischewat brings complementary experience and expertise to their partnership. Their
(17:20):
shared background in military service and national security policy creates
a unique perspective on the challenges facing America's security institutions.
Waltz's commitment to public service extends beyond his official roles.
He has been active in veterans' advocacy efforts, working to
(17:42):
ensure that those who have served receive the support and
resources they need. His own experience as a veteran has
made him particularly sensitive to the challenges facing military personnel
transitioning to civilian life, and the importance of providing adequate
support for veterans and their families. Throughout his career, Waltz
(18:04):
has maintained a focus on the importance of American leadership
in global affairs. His experience in combat operations and policy
formation has convinced him of the need for strong American
engagement in international affairs, while also recognizing the importance of
building effective partnerships with allies and working through multilateral institutions
(18:29):
when appropriate. As National Security Advisor, Waltz faces the challenge
of helping to coordinate America's response to an increasingly complex
set of global threats. These include traditional military challenges from
near peer competitors, ongoing terrorist threats, cybersecurity concerns, and the
(18:50):
impact of emerging technologies on national security. His background in
special forces operations and his experience in policy formation providing
him with valuable perspective on addressing these multifaceted challenges. The
evolution of Waltz's career from special Forces officer to national
security adviser reflects broader changes in American security policy since
(19:13):
the September eleventh attax. His experience spans the full spectrum
of American security challenges, from direct combat operations to strategic
policy formation. This breadth of experience positions him well to
help guide American security policy in an era of increasing
(19:33):
complexity and uncertainty. Waltz's approach to national security is informed
by his understanding of the importance of integrating various elements
of national power. His experience in military operations, policy formation,
and legislative oversight has given him insight into how different
aspects of national security policy must work together to achieve
(19:57):
strategic objectives. This integrated approach is particularly important in addressing
contemporary security challenges that often cross traditional bureaucratic boundaries. His
role as an author has allowed him to share his
insights and experiences with a broader audience through his books.
(20:18):
Waltz has contributed to public understanding of the challenges facing
American security policy and the importance of effective leadership in
addressing these challenges. His writing reflects both his practical experience
in combat operations and his understanding of the policy making process.
(20:39):
The significance of Waltz's career extends beyond his individual achievements.
As the first Green Beret to serve in Congress and
now as National Security Adviser, he represents a new generation
of military leaders who have successfully transitioned to senior policy positions.
(21:00):
His success demonstrates the value of combining operational military experience
with policy expertise and political acumen. Looking to the future,
Waltz's role as National Security Advisor will require him to
help navigate an increasingly complex global security environment. The challenges
(21:20):
facing American security policy include traditional military threats, terrorism, cybersecurity concerns,
and the impact of emerging technologies. His background in special
forces operations and his experience in policy formation provide him
with valuable perspective on addressing these multifaceted challenges. The appointment
(21:45):
of Waltz's National Security Advisor also reflects a recognition of
the importance of having leaders who understand both the operational
and strategic aspects of national security. His unique combination of
combat experience, policy expertise, and legislative understanding positions him well
(22:07):
to coordinate the various elements of America's national security apparatus
and provide sound advice to the President on critical security matters.
Throughout his career, Waltz has demonstrated an ability to adapt
to changing circumstances while maintaining a focus on core principles
of leadership and service. His journey from special forces officer
(22:31):
to national security advisor reflects both personal growth and an
evolving understanding of national security challenges. As he takes on
this new role, his experience and expertise will be crucial
in helping to shape America's response to current and future
security challenges. Thank you for listening to this in depth
(22:55):
profile of Michael Waltz. If you enjoyed this episode, please
don't forget yet to subscribe to hear more compelling stories
about influential leader's shaping America's future. This episode was brought
to you by Quiet Please Podcast Networks. Stay tuned for
our next episode.
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