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At the Water's Edge

At the Water's Edge

By: Scott
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Geo-politics and national security from the practitioner's seat. Insight beyond the headlines.

© 2025 At the Water's Edge
Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • #26 Trump's National Security Strategy with Jahara Matisek (PhD)
    Jun 16 2025

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    In this episode, Scott and Dr. Jahara 'FRANKY' Matisek discuss the current state of global conflicts, particularly focusing on the dynamics between Israel and Iran, and the tensions between Pakistan and India. They delve into Trump's national security strategy, exploring its foundations and implications, including a modern interpretation of the Monroe Doctrine. The conversation also highlights the role of Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFABs) in U.S. military strategy, the impact of sanctions on Russia, and the shifting landscape of U.S. global leadership. The discussion culminates in reflections on the need for accountability and a coherent grand strategy in national security policy.

    Original article

    Contact the show: contact@atthewatersedge.org

    takeaways

    • Trump's national security strategy is often seen as a symptom of broader issues rather than the root cause.
    • Sanctions can have a delayed effect, impacting economies over time despite immediate appearances.
    • The U.S. is perceived as breaking the international order, which could have long-term consequences.
    • A coherent grand strategy is essential for effective national security policy.
    • Accountability in the national security establishment is lacking, leading to a disconnect with the public.
    • The Monroe Doctrine is being reinterpreted to address modern challenges, particularly with China.
    • SFABs play a crucial role in enhancing military strategy and interoperability with allies.
    • America's soft power is diminishing, affecting its global standing.
    • The national security establishment is facing challenges in adapting to new political realities.
    • Trump's foreign policy reflects a unique approach that diverges from traditional strategies.


    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and Background of the Guest

    05:22
    Trump's National Security Strategy Overview

    08:30
    The Monroe Doctrine and Its Modern Implications

    11:38
    Shifts in Military Strategy and Resources

    14:30
    The Role of SFABs in Modern Warfare

    17:43
    Comparing Trump's Policies to Previous Administrations

    20:27
    Sanctions and Their Effectiveness

    23:30
    The Future of U.S.-Russia Relations

    26:31
    Conclusion and Future Implications

    34:36
    Global Perceptions: America vs. China

    36:36
    The Evolution of Soft Power in U.S. Foreign Policy

    38:59
    Trump's Administration: A Shift in Foreign Policy Dynamics

    42:29
    The National Security Community's Disconnect

    43:56
    The Impact of U.S. Wars on Global Reputation

    48:42
    Trump: A Symptom of Deeper Issues

    54:29
    Accountability in National Security


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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • #25 Avoiding Nuclear War between Pakistan and India with Pakistani Senator Bushra Anjum
    Jun 9 2025

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    In this episode, Senator Bushra Anjum Butt discusses the escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, particularly focusing on the implications of the Indus Water Treaty and the need for international mediation. She emphasizes Pakistan's mission of peace and the importance of diplomacy over war, while also addressing the role of the U.S. in influencing regional stability. The conversation highlights the risks of escalation and the current domestic sentiment in Pakistan regarding the conflict.

    takeaways

    • Nuclear war poses a global threat beyond immediate casualties.
    • Pakistan's delegation in the U.S. aims to mediate peace with India.
    • The Indus Water Treaty is crucial for Pakistan's water security.
    • War is not a viable solution to conflicts between nations.
    • International mediation is essential to prevent escalation.
    • The U.S. has significant influence over India's actions.
    • Pakistan seeks economic development and trade over military conflict.
    • Domestic sentiment in Pakistan is currently united against India.
    • The political landscape in Pakistan is complex and evolving.
    • A healthy U.S.-Pakistan relationship should focus on mutual growth.


    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and Mission of Peace

    07:49
    The Indus Water Treaty and Its Implications

    10:49
    Recent Hostilities and Kashmir Conflict

    13:50
    Appeal for International Mediation

    17:05
    US-Pakistan Relations and Economic Development

    19:46
    Pakistan's Diplomatic Strategy

    22:50
    Escalation Risks and Water Security

    25:50
    Domestic Sentiment and Political Unity

    28:45
    Future of US-Pakistan Relations

    contact the show: contact@atthewatersedge.org

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    47 mins
  • #24 The Evolution of Close Air Support from WWII to GWOT with Dr. Steve Call
    May 16 2025

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    In this conversation, Dr. Steve Call discusses the evolution of air support in military operations, focusing on the role of Tactical Air Controllers (TACPs) and the historical context of air-ground integration. He highlights lessons learned from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, emphasizing the importance of close air support (CAS) in modern warfare. Dr. Call also addresses current challenges facing CAS and the future of air support in the military, advocating for a deeper understanding of operational concepts versus strategies.

    takeaways

    • ALO tours were seen as a dark hole in careers.
    • American military integrates air support tightly with ground units.
    • The history of air-ground coordination is rich and complex.
    • Lessons from WWII shaped modern air support strategies.
    • Post-WWII, the Air Force focused on strategic bombing over CAS.
    • Korean War required a reinvention of CAS tactics.
    • Vietnam War established NCOs as key players in air support.
    • Desert Storm showcased the effectiveness of CAS.
    • Post-9/11 operations highlighted the need for coordination.
    • Current trends threaten the effectiveness of CAS.

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction to Steve Call

    04:43
    Steve's Military Background and Education

    08:57
    The Evolution of Tactical Air Control

    12:48
    The Importance of Air-Ground Integration

    16:48
    Historical Context of Close Air Support

    20:57
    The Dilemma of Air and Ground Forces

    24:46
    Post-War Air Power Perspectives

    28:56
    The Reinvention of Close Air Support

    32:48
    The Fighter Mafia and Its Impact

    36:53
    Lessons from History and Future Implications

    37:41
    The Impact of Desert Storm on Air Power

    41:35
    The Role of Close Air Support in Modern Warfare

    53:49
    Challenges Facing Close Air Support Today

    56:47
    The Future of Air Force Close Air Support

    01:03:55
    The A-10 vs. F-35 Debate

    01:06:48
    Final Thoughts on Close Air Support Strategy

    Dr. Steve Calls Books:

    Danger Close: Tactical Air Controllers in Afghanistan and IraqSelling Air Power: Military Aviation and American Popular Culture after World War II

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    1 hr and 12 mins

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