Army Reserve Military Intelligence and Policy Work | CPT Nicholas Rodman

Description:

How do reservists bridge the civil-military divide, and why does it matter for national defense? In this episode, I chat with my longtime friend and TPU Military Intelligence Officer, Captain Nicholas Rodman, to explore the answers to these questions and more. He shares his military journey and insights on the critical role of reservists in connecting the military and civilian worlds.  

Meet CPT Nicholas Rodman  

• Before joining the military, Nicholas spent five years as a Congressional staffer on the House Armed Services Committee. 
• His role there provided him with a deep understanding of defense policy, which ultimately shaped his decision to serve. 
• From navigating Officer Candidate School (OCS) to commanding a Human Intelligence (HUMINT) company, Nicholas recounts his challenges and the lessons he has learned along the way.  

Balancing Civilian and Military Life

• Nicholas discusses the unique challenges faced by reservists who balance their military careers with demanding civilian jobs. 
• Reflecting on his own experiences and his work with organizations like Friendly Forces, he highlights the importance of educating employers about reservists' contributions and rights.

Geopolitics: Ukraine, China, and Beyond

• Nicholas analyzes major global issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the potential challenges with China over Taiwan. 
• He discusses the strategic implications for NATO, the role of deterrence, and the interconnectedness of global events.

Reflections on the Next Generation

• Despite the challenges, Nicholas is optimistic about the future of the Army Reserve and its ability to adapt to changing times. 
• He shares his thoughts on how the new generation of soldiers brings fresh perspectives and skills to the military.

“I think the Army, more than any other branch, is a reflection of American society. It's the largest branch. I think our generation often looks down on Gen Z and even younger kids. But I think they bring some value. They're a lot more tech-savvy, and they question orthodoxies more, which can be both good and bad in the military.” - Nicholas Rodman.

Resources

Part-Time Hitter is a collaborative initiative by Friendly Forces and The Fratty Guard.

http://friendlyforces.com

http://thefrattyguard.com