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Mission Ready: The Taft Derby Podcast

Mission Ready: The Taft Derby Podcast

By: Dr. Melissa L. Brown
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About this listen

This series was created for Taft O. Derby as he prepares for his Service Academy interviews and the next stage of his leadership journey. Each episode captures a focused briefing—part strategy, part reflection—built around the real steps he’s taking: refining his “why,” studying the academies, practicing for congressional panels, and staying mission-ready in the months ahead.

It’s not about publicity or polish. It’s a record of preparation, perspective, and growth—one conversation at a time—as Taft moves from candidate to cadet.

© 2025 Mission Ready: The Taft Derby Podcast
Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Military Cyber Warfare Roadmap: Matching Your Technical Genius
    Oct 10 2025

    Explore the evolving world of military cyber careers in this episode designed for high-achieving STEM students like Taft. Discover what it actually means to serve as a Cyber or Information Warfare Officer across the Army, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine. We break down daily missions, paths to leadership, core technical challenges, and the impact of digital defense and offense on national security. Learn how your coding, analytical, and problem-solving skills convert into real cyber operations: from defending global networks to launching space-based missions. Plus, get insider insight on academy programs, selection priorities, and how future cyber leaders can prepare for the front lines of digital warfare.

    A personal record of readiness, reflection, and resolve.

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    13 mins
  • Engineering Leadership at the Service Academies: Taft’s Guide to Military STEM Careers
    Oct 9 2025

    This episode is a personalized deep dive for Taft, exploring the engineering and STEM career pathways available at one of the U.S. military service academies. We break down what life is like at the academy, how engineering majors connect to specific officer communities, and the hands-on leadership and technical challenges graduates face. From day-to-day duties and innovation opportunities to real-world missions where a STEM background makes a difference, join us for a focused guide to making the most of academic strengths in service.

    A personal record of readiness, reflection, and resolve.

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    13 mins
  • Merchant Marine: Navigating STEM—Engineering Futures at the Merchant Marine Academy
    Oct 9 2025

    Discover how the U.S. service academies prepare future leaders in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) disciplines. This episode is tailored for high-achieving students exploring military pathways, breaking down the unique STEM and engineering officer roles found at each federal academy. Learn about admissions, technical majors, hands-on projects, daily missions, leadership opportunities, and the real-world impact of technical skills on national security, infrastructure, and innovation.

    Branch Spotlight Merchant Marine covering the respective academy and officer communities where STEM and engineering majors pave the way for technical leadership and mission success.

    Hear how academic strengths in math, science, and technology translate into dynamic careers—from operating advanced ships, designing aircraft and satellites, building infrastructure, to leading cyber and digital transformation in defense. Find key details about career progression, graduate education, and the value of a STEM background for commissioning and long-term success.

    A personal record of readiness, reflection, and resolve.

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    10 mins
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