Shows
Old Grad PodcastD-1 Ducks Remember Brian KleyensteuberFellow D-1 Ducks Tom Blake and Kevin Kearns fondly remember our fall classmate Brian Kleyensteuber who passed away April 23rd, 2025. Tom, Kevin and Brian all branched engineers and became members of the small but mightly community of US Army Divers. Tom and Kevin reflect on the great loss to our class of one of the most cerebral, physically fit, and spiritual members of our class.
2025-06-301h 43
Old Grad PodcastSteve Havel (B-1) Let it BeSteve Havel (B1) talks about the challenges of fatherhood and supporting family members with addiction and substance abuse problems. Steve's bravery is discussing this important topic will undoubtedly be of service to some members of our class.
2025-06-131h 28
Old Grad PodcastMark and Holly West (A4 / B2)In this repeat episode, we revisit with Mark and Holly West who are our local West Point ambassadors. We hear about their passion for serving the community of West Point and Highland Falls with their exciting venture Westy's - Where Craft Meets Community.
2025-03-281h 33
Old Grad PodcastJohn Cook (H-4)In this episode, co-host and companymate Tony Wizner joins John Cook as he shares his remarkable life journey. From his roots in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, to his time at prep school, West Point, and his distinguished 30-year Army career, John offers an inspiring look into his experiences. Together, we explore the high points of his service, as well as the profound challenges of losing soldiers in combat. John also reflects on the incredible support he received from fellow classmate Doug Winton, who helped shoulder the burdens of war. John Cook is a true example of a selfless warrior and...
2025-01-161h 46
Old Grad Podcast2024 Reflections / 2025 IntentionsReflections on OGP and Intentions moving Forward.
Name of deceased GraduateCompanyProject Leader
Michael A. Aguilar
F4
Shannon D. Beebe
I3
Timothy H. Burnham
E2
Andrew F. Clements
A4
Kimberly L. Daffern
B3
Russell A. Davidson
E4
Anthony J. Detoto
A3
Kenneth A. Evans
H3
Carl T. Every
E2
Todd D. Farrington
B3
Peter C. Graff
H2
Janet M. Greco Gibson
C4
Joseph B. Gudenburr
F2
Michael J. Haas
I2
William F. Hecker
B3
Timothy B. Hoskinson
I3
Jenifer L. Kelley
H3
Yu S. Kim
C3
William J. Love
B4
Shawn D. Maxie
0
Thomas A. McTigue
D2
J...
2025-01-0607 min
Old Grad PodcastDede (Broderick) Gibby (I-3) and Brian Gibby (I4'91 / E2'93)Dede and Brian met at Beast in 1987 while in the same India Company for Cadet Basic Training. After our yearling year, Brian left to complete a mission with Church of Latter-Day Saints while Dede finished with our class. Today they are stationed at West Point and Brian is the Deputy Department Head for History. We talk about their faith-filled journey while serving our country.
2024-12-021h 35
Old Grad PodcastJason Marquith (I1) "Nothing Else Matters"In this episode we talk about Jason Marquith's journey from barely being 17 years old as a plebe at West Point to a lifetime of service to the Nation. We talk about the unique experience he had transporting his father across the country to meet his great granddaughter for the first time in his final days.
2024-11-191h 41
Old Grad PodcastMark Livesay (H2) "Let it Go"Mark Livesay was joined by fellow company mate Norine D'Arcy Walker. We talk about the great experience in company Happy 2 and reminisce about barracks antics they called "Capers."
Mark leads a team of people at Google and his internal bio reads as follows:
Helping awesome people do amazing things for the best possible reasons
Mark’s tried about every fun job [and a couple that weren’t] in aerospace and auto manufacturing, business
outsourcing, and financial services. And now, he’s giving technology a try.
He's built airplanes, acquisition strate...
2024-09-261h 55
Old Grad PodcastDave Dadich (H-4)Dave Dadich joined by fellow Hog co-host John Cook. We talk about living every day like it could be your last.
Sign up for our class tailgate: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/usma-class-of-1991-football-weekend-tickets-970995693257
2024-08-281h 33
Old Grad PodcastTony Wizner (H-4)Tony served 30 years in the Army and retired at the rank of Colonel. He was commissioned as an Armor officer and then transitioned into acquisitions following his company grade time. He supported special operations command in that capacity which included multiple deployments in some unique situations.
2024-07-071h 56
Old Grad PodcastMark Cramer (B2) and AAR of our Mini ReunionMark Cramer commissioned FA upon graduation and served in Hawaii after attending DLI for Turkish. After the Army, he went to B-School at Thunderbird (U-Arizona) and worked in technology for a number of years before transitioning to residential real estate where he works with his wife Lisa. They have two children and reside in Denver - the location of our next mini-reunion. The first 20 minutes are a fun AAR with the Wests as we recap the recent mini-reunion in Lexington Kentucky.
2024-05-021h 41
Old Grad PodcastRon Lukow (I3)Ron Lukow served 26 years in the Army as an aviator. In this podcast, he chronicles his journey from growing up in Mattoon Illinois (the youngest of five children in a military family) to West Point, the Army, and now at BAE Systems. He and his wife Kathy reside in Northern Virginia and have 2 children. Ron talks about highlights of his Army career including as commander of Task Force Comanche where he received the highest aviation honor the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroic actions under fire.
2024-04-081h 47
Old Grad PodcastBrian Turner (I2)Brian Turner serves as the Associate Deputy Director of the FBI. He details his story from humble beginnings on the South Side of Chicago to becoming the 2nd most senior official in the FBI today. Despite his meteoric rise through the ranks of our government, BT remains true to his roots and lives by his Leadership Philosophy: Character, Competence, and Empathy - all values that were instilled in him at West Point and in the Army.
2024-04-041h 23
Old Grad PodcastMini Reunion Q&A Sessionhttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1OuArapr-keE5JtpyPZ3e7bp-fnSPO60s__QrM_IMba0/edit
Class of 91 Mini Reunion
Lexington KY
18-21 April 2024
Marriott Lexington Griffin Gate Golf Resort & Spa
1800 Newtown Pike Lexington, Kentucky 40511
Critical Links:
Hotel Room Block:
Activity Sign Up Link:
What’s App Commo Link
Agenda:
Thursday 18 April:
10:00am Golf ($90 pp) or spa (book appts on your own)
6:00 Welcome cocktail party at Hotel ($125pp)
...
2024-03-0728 min
Old Grad PodcastChuck Poche (F1) "Send Lawyers Guns and Money"Chuck served 30 years of active duty following graduation from West Point and retired as a Colonel. He now works as counsel for The Defense Threat Reduction Agency. DTRA is both a defense agency and a combat support agency within the United States Department of Defense for countering weapons of mass destruction and supporting the nuclear enterprise. Chuck takes us through his 30-year Army career and highlights points of wisdom and leadership he learned along the way. He lives in Northern Virginia with his wife Renee and they have two young adult children Madeline and Zachary.
2024-01-301h 55
2023-12-3157 min
Old Grad PodcastChris Hartley - G4 - Continuing to shape tomorrow’s leadersChris Hartley, formerly a law department professor at West Point, retired from active duty after his last assignment there. He is currently serving as a company tactical officer at the Citadel in Charleston, SC, where he finds immense fulfillment in shaping tomorrow's leaders through his role.
2023-12-181h 40
Old Grad PodcastGoat Stealing StoriesOn this call we have Ted Russ, Andy Iliff, Major General Jim Isenhower, Mr. Iliff Senior, Ron Massey and Holly West all sharing their stories of stealing the goat.
2023-12-041h 42
Old Grad PodcastLTG Jon Braga - Stealing the GoatIn this episode we discuss the Goat Heist of 1990 with Jon Braga and Andy Iliff.
2023-12-041h 21
Old Grad PodcastChris Barden (G1) - and The Blood LadyChris Barden laid down a challenge for the Old Grad Podcast. "You get the blood lady on, and I'll do OGP".... Challenge accepted. Along with Co-Host Brian Sharpe (F1) we hear from Ms. Jeannie Kays what it was like being the blood lady. We then interview Chris Barden about his journey. Along the way we stumble on some funny memories of cadet life as a G-1 Greek, drunken ferrets, unusual talents of snorting dog tag chains, gold fish Heimlich maneuver and much more.
2023-11-131h 33
Old Grad PodcastKenner Gill (I-4) - Back in Black
Keener Gill, company I-4 is a member of the Class of 91 who was with us at West Point all the way until our Firstie year. He comes from a military family split between the Marine Corps and the Army. After leaving West Point under duress, he was commissioned as a Marine Corps officer through Vanderbilt ROTC. He served 10 years in the Marine Corps. After military service, he has held several senior-level positions in the banking industry including building our USAA's wealth management business and selling it for $2billion.
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2023-09-191h 55
Old Grad PodcastCOL (r) Vince Lindenmeyer (B2) ”Half a Sorrow”Vince introduces a good friend Dennis Gillan who brings forward an important message of suicide prevention. We also talk about Vince's Army career starting with his experience at West Point and culminating with a multi-decade career serving our country. Vince continues to serve to this day working with non-profit organizations as a consultant. It is with this work that he first learned of Dennis and his story. Vince is on a mission to make sure we all focus on mental well-being and positivity.
2023-08-141h 24
Old Grad PodcastRob Blomquist (H3) ”Should I Stay or Should I Go?”Rob currently lives in West Hartford, CT with his wife, son and daughter. He reflects on his journey through West Point which included two summers of STAP and a whole lot of fun as a member of the H3 Hurricanes. He served a total of 26 years as active duty and reserve Army officer. Rob was an instrumental thought partner in the creation of the Old Grad Podcast so his interview is long overdue.
2023-07-101h 37
Old Grad PodcastVonnette Couch Monteith (H1) ”Say what you mean, Do what you Say”Vonette served over 24 years as an Army Officer following graduation. She currently lives in Watertown NY in an 1800's vintage building that she bought while stationed at Fort Drum. She owns and operates a restaurant that occupies the downstairs of her multi-story building: Empire Square - Southern Fusion Restaurant and cocktail bar. She recalls her tough slog with academics and her priceless friendships she forged while getting through West Point.
2023-05-221h 39
Old Grad PodcastKaren Walsh (G4) ”I get by with a little help from my friends”Following her active duty Army time, Karen Walsh served 21 years as an FBI special agent focusing on a number of areas including violent sex crimes, human trafficking, and domestic terrorism. She spent nearly 2 years in a deep undercover role to expose a domestic terrorist threat and bring those responsible to justice. We reminisce about her time at West Point where she developed her appreciation for teamwork and fostered her love of country.
2023-04-242h 02
Old Grad PodcastMG Johnny Richardson, H3.”Leading with Trust”John Richardson (H-3) is currently serving as the Division Commander of the 1st Cavalry Division. He is our first guest to actually sing their walkup song "I want to be in the Cavalry." We talk about the importance of personal connections in leading soldiers, and the importance of building a climate of Trust. Johnny was nearly kicked out of West Point in the summer of our Cow year. His Tac officer Major Morris went to bat for him. Johnny got to pay if forward years later as a Tac Officer when he recommended retaining a cadet who would later...
2023-03-062h 18
Old Grad PodcastCraig Peterson D-2. ”Teen Spirit, Here we are now, entertain us.”Craig Peterson is surrounded by teenagers. He works as a high school teacher in Duluth MN and is a father to 6 children. He shares his journey starting with a recruiting call in 1986 that led to 4 years at West Point and several years of service in the Army. In company D-2 he roomed with fallen classmates John Tiner and Tommy McTigue for several semesters. He also was close to our fallen classmate Paul Haggerty. He met his wife Andrea while stationed in Europe and they were married a year later. Tragically, Andrea passed away from a rare autoimmune disease a fe...
2023-02-271h 50
Old Grad PodcastIntroducing - Through the GrayI coincidentally came across this other podcast - Through the Gray. It follows a similar format to Old Grad Podcast, but is about the class of 2001. I was struck by the similarities and even more struck by the differences. Listen to my conversation with Joe Harrison who is the creator of this incredible work.
https://open.spotify.com/show/4au1g8ibIuKwaFnwNSKozi
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/through-the-gray/id1624827253
https://anchor.fm/joe-harrison0
2023-02-191h 04
Old Grad PodcastTrent Price (G3)- Enjoy Life and Do the Right ThingTrent has been battling a brain tumor since 2016. He relocated to Florida during the pandemic to have better access to medical care. He continues to live life to the fullest including riding his motorcycle two days after brain surgery. A highlight of this episode is at minute 48 when he talks about some special additional instruction he received in French Class.
2023-02-191h 27
Old Grad PodcastGreg Mogavero (B2) - ”Ita Fitta Fine”After a 23-year career in the Army, Greg Mogavero is back at West Point working in the physics department. He picked his theme song from Sanford and Son because he loves to tinker with things whether it be fixing up his century-old house in Cornwall, or a high-power telescope for the cadets - he is in his element when he's taking things apart and putting them back together again. We talk about his journey to West Point that started with first considering the Airforce Academy while he was on a Boy Scout trip to Philmont. One of his lifelong...
2023-02-051h 51
Old Grad PodcastClay Lowe C3 / C2Clay Lowe lives in the UK and has only been back to the US once in the past 20 years. In this episode, we hear about his life as an ExPat, a crazy camping trip that included experimentation with magic mushrooms, and his "Gap Year" at West Point after a self-reported honor transgression. Clay is a deeply thoughtful person with a deep intellect and a keen sense of self. His walk-up song was appropriate "Like a Stone" by Audioslave. Perhaps it was because after prep school. 3 stap summers, and a gap year - you just can't get Clay to back d...
2023-01-171h 32
Old Grad PodcastOld Grad Podcast Highlights - End of 2022As we end 2022, these are some of my favorite clips from OGP. I am committing to do at least 12 episodes in 2023. Thank you to all who have continued to push me to keep doing this. Happy New Year All.
2023-01-0128 min
Old Grad PodcastOvi Alfaro (B-2)Ovi lives in the Philadelphia area and is currently COO for the American Bible Society. An interesting fact is that the very first graduate of West Point Joseph Swift also worked for the Bible Society. He took on this assignment following a successful career in the oil and gas industry. Ovi is the Class Bereavement officer and reflects on experiences in dealing with the survivor families of our class. Ovi was born in Cuba and emigrated with his family in the early 1970s. He remembers with great reverence the patriotism of his family - from a MacDonald's restaurant to...
2022-05-091h 41
Old Grad PodcastKenny Walks Across AmericaInterview with Kenny Mintz and Co-host Bernard Seeger. We interview Kenny as he gets ready to depart on April 1st, 2022 to walk across America. We discuss his motivation for taking on such a big audacious goal. Kenny will be walking to support three charities. LINK to charity links -
In addition to contributing to the various charities, the best way to support Kenny his to link up with him when he's in your area. Connect him to local events and celebrate his service by amplifying his message.
Link to route and schedule
2022-03-211h 34
Old Grad PodcastBret PetkusWarning - this is a LONG episode. We just had a great time talking through West Point, the Army and Life - Bret lives in Texas with his wife and 4 children. His eldest son Lou is an incoming plebe with the class of 2026. Bret reflects on the ups and down of his journey and makes critical observations about his good fortune.
2022-03-072h 34
Old Grad PodcastHeather Burruss (I-4)Heather Burruss was a chemistry major at West Point and was commissioned as a Military Police officer. She and the 5 other classmates who branched MP (all female) had to report to OBC in June of 1991 after only a few short weeks of graduation leave. She served on active duty for 5+ years and worked in an 04 slot as a First Lieutenant. Upon leaving active duty she worked a few years in business running a candlestick factory. She later received her PhD in Analytical Chemistry from Wake Forest University and returned to public service for the FBI. She is recently retired a...
2022-02-071h 40
Old Grad PodcastBG (ret.) Mike Eastman (E-2)BG (ret.) Mike Eastman reflects on his transition to civilian life over the past two months after service to our nation culminating with service in Afghanistan charged with shutting down Bagram Airfield. His operational assignments included a range of artillery and fire support positions with the 25th Infantry Division, battery command in the 4th Infantry Division, battalion command in the 1st Armored Division, and command of the 75th Field Artillery Brigade, III Corps. He deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Spartan Shield, and Operation Inherent Resolve. Over the course of the podcast we reflect o...
2022-01-101h 30
Old Grad PodcastGeneral BramlettGeneral Bramlett talks about his 38-year career, his own personal cadet experience, and his memorable time being the Commandant of Cadets.
2021-09-101h 32
Old Grad PodcastAlex Rodgers (I4)Alex Rodgers commissioned a Field Artillery Officer and served 5 years at Ft. Still and Ft. Bragg. We talk about the role of West Point in his life. We talk in detail about his experiences as a black man at West Point, in the Army and in the business world.
2021-09-101h 31
Old Grad PodcastScott Halstead - Post AT Thru Hike / Reunion UpdateReunion Update and Scott Halstead Post AT Hike.
2021-07-121h 29
Old Grad PodcastRich Ryan (I-1)Rich Ryan is CEO and founder of Six-15 Technologies a technology company that designs, develops, and manufactures head-up displays (HUDs) for users operating in the world’s most demanding environments. He was a lax player at West Point and commissioned as an aviator. Among many things we reminisce about "Lacrosse Tribe", a crazy spring break firstie year, a 125 hour slug, and having his best friend marry his sister. Rich bravely talks about his own struggles with depression and his to keep healthy despite the pressures of work and life. We also remember our fallen classmate Tom McTigue.
2021-07-061h 43
Old Grad PodcastTim Burnham (E-2)Tim Burnham lives in Nashville TN and recently transitioned into his own consultancy business specializing in saving money for small and mid-sized businesses. He bravely tells his personal story dating back to West Point where he began struggling with problems related to alcohol. Today he is 15 years sober with a stable marriage and home life. This is all a function of his grit, determination and humility.
2021-05-291h 43
Old Grad PodcastLaurie Reider-Jabbar (I1)Laurie Reider Jabbar lives in California with her husband and two sons. We chat about her journey from losing her mother at a young age, to being a corps squad athlete to serving in Germany, to navigating the challenges of being a serial entrepreneur. She has a podcast of her own "She's 10 times 5."
2021-04-011h 25
Old Grad PodcastTraci Fisher (D2)Traci Cisek Fisher was recruited to play soccer at West Point directly from high school. She didn't know much about West Point before showing up the night before R-day to meet her soccer teammates at Holly Fishburne's house. This was the start of the very strong bonds she would form with the other women on the soccer team. She strongly considered resigning during Beast, but was talked out of it by her D2 company mates. She has very fond memories of her 3 years on corps squad soccer as well as her times as a D2 Dragon. She was commissioned i...
2021-02-151h 28
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 40 Beach Pace (E-1)Beach Pace is CEO of Big Brother and Big Sisters Columbia Northwest, located outside of Portland Oregon. She and her wife Jincy have been together for 18years, they have a daughter (Aidan) and son (Conor). She graduated and was commissioned as an ordinance officer. Her first assignment was in Italy where she led a highly specialized in EOD unit and eventually had a company command pre-advance course. She served a total of 7 years on active duty with her final assignment leading ROTC in Northern Michigan. She spent several years working as a pharmaceutical sales rep before transitioning into social ch...
2021-02-011h 29
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 39 Vince Duque (A-1)This was a very powerful conversation with Vince Duque talking about his journey through depression and suicide ideation. We talk about growing in pursuit of his American Dream; what it was like to be in A-1 "Be Straight or Be Gone"; accidentally allowing a classmate's car to roll into Lake Popolopen; managing actors and actresses on the set in Hollywood. This episode was filled with great tidbits of advice and insightful reflection.
2021-01-112h 01Old Grad PodcastEpisode 38 Jon Gerold (E-2)Jon talks about his 28-year journey in the Army - he recently retired and is living in Pinehurst NC. We pay special tribute to our recently fallen classmate Anthony DeToto
2020-12-081h 46
2020-11-3011 min
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 37 - Rich Gordon (G3)Aloha - Rich joins us from Hawaii where he still works as a DA civilian following a full career as an Army Officer. We begin by talking about the benefits of meditation for mental well being. We reflect on Rich's journey going back to 1986 when as a freshman at the University of Utah he was accepted to West Point. Highlights include spending 6 months in Ranger school, branch transfer from Infantry to Aviation, company and battalion commands. He and his wife Staci have been married 22 years and they have two daughters.
2020-11-161h 28
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 36 - Charles Lipeles (C3)Charles Lipeles just completed a 102 mile ultra running race. He was joined by company mates Paul Begalka and Brian Halloran who were his support team for the race. We begin by talking about the unique demographics of Company C3. There was a disproportionate number of Jewish Cadets in that company. We learn that this may have been the brainchild of a person working in the G1 at USMA. Charles, Paul and Brian have many stories going all the way back to July of 1987.
2020-10-261h 30
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 35 Brian Mackey (A2)Brian Mackey missed 2nd semester of yearling year due to a medical procedure to remove a benign tumor from his nasal cavity. He gives us a rare glimpse into the life of a December graduate. He talks about the shared obstacles of navigating cow English in the final semester of West Point, as well as the unique advantage of being a "super firstie."
2020-09-141h 23
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 34 - Luke Knittig (C4)Luke Knittig is senior director of communications for the McCain Institute, responsible for strategic communications, media, external relations, events, publications, website, marketing and partnership activity. He is also executive producer and host of the Institute’s groundbreaking In The Arena podcast.
Luke previously served in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, where he led high-visibility public relations initiatives, and advised the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, the Honorable Doug Wilson. Also in the Pentagon, he served as special assistant to General Peter Chiarelli, Army vice chief of staff, and public affairs officer for Army underse...
2020-08-171h 26
The Gravel LotCody and Jamie WallisCody and Jamie met in 6th grade, have been dating since high school, then got married, and then founded Handup Gloves together. Learn how their story unfolds, and how you can learn from their successes and mistakes and start your own business. Handup Gloves: Use code "PEBBLE$" for 20% off EVERYTHING in store. Visit The B Line Follow TGL today: Facebook - Instagram - Twitter Subscribe to The Gravel Lot on the Wide Angle Podium Network and become a member TODAY and get access to EXCLUSIVE bonus content. Be Free...
2020-07-301h 34Old Grad PodcastSpecial Episode - Stories of Fallen ClassmatesMemorial Day - 2020. This special edition of the Old Grad Podcast is a collection of clips where fallen classmates are being remembered. We start and end remembering Bill Hecker who was Killed in Action. Also Ted Russ talking about flight school with Tommy McTigue; Holly West talking about Dave Reardon in peak form during football season; John Keenan talking about Paul Haggerty always getting to church despite how hard hit the town of Juarez the night before; Pete Gaudet remembering Rusty Davidson; and Mark West remembering Andy Clements. Kim Evans remembering her husband Kenny Evans.
2020-05-2434 min
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 33 - Bernard Seeger (D4)Bernard Seeger is a modern-day Marco Polo. After graduating from West Point, he spent 8 years in the Army as an Infantry Officer. We share some stories of Ranger School, Korea and Germany. Upon leaving the service, he embarked on a 12-month adventure that took him across the world before entering grad school for Public Administration. His journey took him to interesting places such as the basecamp of Mount Everest, the Serengeti national park, New Zealand, Thailand. Moscow, Mongolia, and Mexico. He has served as a public administrator for several communities for the past 20 years. He recently left the role o...
2020-05-181h 45
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 32 - Dan Clark (C1)Dan Clark hails from a military town in Rhode Island. He grew up wanting to become an aviator. He and his brother were raised in a single-parent household where money was always tight. When he graduated from high school he joined the Army to become an aircraft mechanic - a stepping stone on pursuant of his dream (as told by his recruiter). He attended basic training with Pat Burton (G2), and they were both identified as potential future officers. Dan spent a year in Germany living the good life as an E-3 before going to prep school in the...
2020-05-061h 58
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 31 - Libby Boggs Schott, Julie Wood Nelson, Sharon DeCrane Bull, Stephanie Southard Dullea (F1)The F-1 women were an elite military unit, they always had each other's back and were always standout performers. Not surprisingly, they remain life-long best friends to this day. We chronicle their journey and call attention to the fact that it was a great challenge to be West Point's 11th class with women. We talk about awkwardly tolerating sexist behavior to fit in as "one of the guys"; passing out at a blood drive; grabbing the Mic to announce "Donuts are In"; navigating the physical barriers of barracks set up as divisions, balancing careers with spouses, and being faced...
2020-04-201h 56
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 30 - Brad Woods (A-2)Brad is an ER Doctor in Topeka KS where he lives with his wife Julie and his step-daughter. On this podcast, Brad remembers getting hazed for tripping in a parade in front of President Reagan; posing nude on the Supe's porch; plebe boxing and butchering a german chocolate cake. He remembers our fallen Classmate Andy Clements and reflects on how important it is to appreciate every day. This was a particularly timely podcast as we are currently in the middle of the Covid19 Global Pandemic. Brad reflects on how his time at West Point and in the Army have p...
2020-04-061h 30
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 29 - John Coogan (F3)We talk to John Coogan about his journey. From being medically discharged in 1994 to the present. He has led an entrepreneurial life starting in Telecom as an IT strategist, to supply chain logistics from South America to non-profit leadership with the Wounded Warrior Project, to Children of Fallen Patriots, to Folded Flag Foundation. His most recent venture MD Vets is an in-home veterinarian service. John reflects on his time at West Point and in the Army as the bedrock foundation of what has gotten him through tough times in his life. Special Bonus footage with Nancy Lynn Green at...
2020-03-161h 36
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 28 - Mike Mayweather (H3)Mike talks about his journey from humble beginnings in urban St. Louis. He grew up one of ten children in a single-parent household. He talks about the work of divine intervention in his life: the opportunity to attend a private school, opportunities related to football, being a Heisman Trophy finalist, and especially reconnecting with his childhood sweetheart who is now his wife of 23 years. We have some very honest conversations about the complexities of fatherhood and the impact of father-daughter relationships. We learn that Mike's greatest challenge at West Point was not on the gridiron or in the classroom...
2020-03-072h 05
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 27 - Ingrid Powell Dawkins (B1)Ingrid talks about her journey from Newark NJ to the prep school to West Point. She has 3 daughters and 1 son and lives in the Cleveland Ohio area. Ingrid has lived up to her nickname "GRITS" by living a life full of Grit and Determination. Her 2nd daughter Kendra has autism which requires everyone in the Dawkins family to pitch in. Ingrid is a part-time model and a full-time awesome human being. She talks about the importance of appreciating every single day.
2020-02-101h 26
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 26 - Sam Yingst (F3)Lieutenant Colonel (ret.) Sam Yingst lives with his wife Katie and 4 daughters in Zambia. His job is Chief of Laboratory Infrastructure and Support, US Centers for Disease Control in Zambia. He talks about the role of the US mission in Zambia and the long-lasting impact of the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) started under President George W. Bush. Sam recalls critical times in his Army career when his role in monitoring and fighting infectious were a global priority. Sam's daughters attend international schools and his wife Katie works for an NGO focused on women and i...
2019-12-091h 33
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 25 - Scott Halstead (E1/I2)Scott is currently stationed at Ft Benning where he is attached to the Infantry school. He recently finished up a 4.5 year tour at West Point where he headed up the Simon Center for professional military ethic. He recounts highlights from his 28 year career including tough deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan where he was side by side with other classmates including Mark Bieger, D.A. Sims, Brynt Parmeter, Ken Mintz and Greg Anderson. In the spirit of this Thanksgiving Week, Scott talks about his extreme gratitude for our classmates.
2019-11-251h 20
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 24 COL Ken Mintz (G2)Ken talks about some of the critical moments and people in his life's journey. In 1974, his single mom headed across the country from Washington DC to California with just a suitcase and her young son Kenny. Her steely resolve and courageous spirit helped to define the man that Ken is today. Ken continues to serve after 28 years as an Infantryman. His most defining leadership moment was serving as a Battalion Commander in combat. Ken talks about the pain of losing soldiers killed in combat. Most notably the soldier pictured here Specialist Jordan Morris being awarded his Combat Infantryman's Badge...
2019-11-121h 11
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 21 - Mark Bieger (A4)Mark talks about the job of being Chief of Staff of West Point and gives us a behind the scenes look at a lot of the inner workings of West Point.
2019-11-111h 29
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 23 - John Palcisko (H2)John Palcisko recalls his time in company Happy 2. We talk about football, the prep school, Adult ADHD, the Army, recruiting and much more. We take deliberate time out to remember our fallen classmates Pete Graff and Yu Shik Kim.
2019-10-131h 31Old Grad PodcastEpisode 22- Anthony DeToto (A3)Tote recalls his adventures starting at the Prep School. We cover topics of youth sports, the Army CASA program, managing rich people's money and the meaning of life. Totes is a masterful networker as well as a thoughtful and caring guy.
2019-09-261h 28
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 20 - Kevin Berry (H-1)Root Hawg or Die - COL (ret.) Kevin Berry joins us for Episode 20 of the old Grad Podcast- the one year anniversary of our first podcast. We talk about Kevin's career starting out in Ft. Bliss Texas and his journey through life with wife Monica and their 3 children. Kevin talks about the numerous stories with company H-1 classmates as well as his experience on the basketball team while at West Point. Kevin had the unique honor to be on the staff of the Chairman of the Army 3 Chiefs (Casey, Dempsey and Odierno) all in a short period of time...
2019-07-201h 31
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 19 Matt Louis (A-1)Matt is the author of Mission Transition - which has been affectionately referred to as the "Ranger Handbook for a military transition." Matt and his wife Michele live in Cincinnati and they have 3 boys. He has been a senior leader at Deloitte for the past 15 years, and has worked in other large companies such as General Electric and Proctor and Gamble.
He dedicates his book to our class:
To the members of the West Point class of 1991 – my classmates, my brothers and sisters in arms. You inspired me to write this book and you inspire me...
2019-06-241h 31
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 18 Anthony Noto (G2)Anthony Noto talks about his journey from Prepster to CEO of Sofi.
2019-06-201h 28
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 17 Keith Brown (G-4)Keith talks about his journey from High School, to Soldier, to Prep School to West Point. As a young private he was recognized as USAREUR Soldier of the Year - the award was given to him by LTG Chambers - father of his future roommate Dave Chambers. He talks about his experiences at West Point from the Gospel Choir to the Sprint Football Team. At Engineer OBC, his girlfriend Leslie drove 10 hours and showed up late at night at the BOQ. Keith was playing in a poker game with classmate Blace Albert when Leslie showed up at the door. M...
2019-05-211h 29
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 16 - Kim Evans (G3)Kim Evans (G3) - was commissioned in the Medical Service Corps and served 6.5 years on active duty including a company command at Walter Reed. She has resided in Greenbay Wisconsin for the past 18 years and is getting ready to relocate to the warmer climate of Dallas in a few weeks. She and our classmate Ken Evans (H3) started dating during yearling year and were married the day after graduation in 1991. They were stationed together in Germany for their first assignment. She left the Army and relocated to Wisconsin to work as a healthcare administrator and Ken had several jobs...
2019-03-251h 27
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 15 - Paul Smolchek (D1)Paul lives in West Palm Beach Florida and has two children ages 24 and 17. He is getting ready to paddleboard 83 miles to raise money for Piper's Angels a non-profit that raises money to support families who have children living with Cystic Fibrosis. We chronicle his journey from recruited football player to cadet to Army Officer. Paul was originally planning to play football for Navy, but then fell in love with West Point during a recruiting visit. He received a nomination to go to Navy, but was accepted to West Point - it took some work to convince his local congressman...
2019-03-111h 30
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 14 - John Abercrombie (C4)John Abercrombie first met his wife Shannon (USMA '93) when she was a plebe in his company. Oddly enough he ended up taking Shannon's sister to 500th night. Years later John and Shannon would connect back up in the Army. John tells the painful story of losing Shannon to a stroke some years later. He was left as a widow single dad with three boys ages 9,7 and 4 at the time. Today John Jr. is a Firstie at West Point and was the starting field goal kicker on the football team. #2 son James is a Cow, and #3 son Benjamin is...
2019-03-051h 22
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 13 - Chris Smith Company B-3Chris recalls his time as a B-3 Bandit and talks about his journey from Korea, to Hawaii, to New York City, to London, Columbia and Washington DC. We recall the two units in which we served together, the 2nd Engineer Battalion, 2ID and the "Fighting 411th" also nicknamed the "Archie Bunker Brigade." Chris served at a senior level in the Department of Energy and is now a Senior VP of Policy and Government Relations for Cheniere Energy. Chris talks about his family's pain of losing his cousin Lieutenant Emily Perez USMA '05; as well as losing his B-3 Bandit b...
2019-01-281h 30
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 12 - Scott Feight (C2) - Executive Director, Foundation for Hospital ArtScott Feight lives in Georgia with his wife Tina and two identical twin daughters Megan and Morgan who are both seniors at the University of Georgia. Scott served 8 years as an Army aviator before leaving to join General Electric. He worked at GE for 9 years before accepting the role as ED at the Foundation for Hospital Art. The Foundation was started by Scott's Father in 1984. Scott tells the story of the healing power of art for those who are suffering. The mission of the Foundation is to give comfort and hope to patients, families, medical staffs, and visitors by p...
2019-01-071h 30
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 11 - Brigadier General Omuso George (F1)In this episode we learn about the journey of Omuso and Monica George. They met at the beginning of cow year and were married on graduation day 1991. Mus ("Moose") recounts his bar pinning ceremony that was hastily done in the mirror of his cadet room right before he headed up to the West Point Chapel to marry Monica. We talk about the Army, overseas assignments in Germany and Korea, what it was like to make general, and trying not to fall asleep at his promotion ceremony. We recount a particularly trying plebe and yearling year where Mus was confronted...
2018-12-051h 39
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 10 - Ted Russ (E4)In this episode we talk to Ted Russ who is author of Spirit Mission. The book is a true account of how he and company E-4 stole the Navy Goat our Firstie Year; it connects to a fictional story of stealing a CH47 Chinook in Iraq. As a philosophy major, Ted is deeply analytical and introspective about the unique bonds we forged at West Point. On the podscast he remembers the "jarring experience" the first time going to Pete Gaudet's house where he got to see fellow company mates wearing civilian clothes. He reflected on the very different styles an...
2018-11-261h 31
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 9 - Becky Kanis Margiotta (A2)Becky Kanis Margiotta served an 11 year career in the Army as a Signal Officer. During that time she was stationed in Ft Bragg and Schofield Barracks. She was the first female company commander of a special operations signal company supporting special forces.
In this episode we trace Becky's career back to her cadet experience and the conflict she faced as an "in the closet" gay service member. She describes the challenges she faced with "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"; as well as her advocacy as a founding member of Knights Out. After a rocky transition out of the Army...
2018-11-201h 30
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 8 - COL (Ret.) Rafael Paredes (C4)Ralph recently retired in August of 2017, and did not waste a second getting back in service of our country. We talk about the Army, being a Tac at West Point, 9-11 stories, Korea and more.
Rafael A. Paredes was born in El Salvador. At the age of 11, his family fled from the civil war and immigrated to the United States. Looking for opportunities to repay the country that provided his family safety, Rafael became a naturalized U.S. citizen when he turned 18 and attended the United States Military Academy at West Point. He graduated in 1991 (C4) and w...
2018-11-051h 29
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 7 - Carlisle Barracks and lots of Scotch. Ken Mintz (G2), Doug Winton (A2), Chris Hart (D2), Dave Morrow (G1), Jeff Settle (D1)Episode 7: Chris Hart, Doug Winton, Jeff Settle, Craig Morrow and Kenny Mintz talk about West Point, the Army, Relief in Place with classmates downrange, dressing up as the OC as cadets and so much more.
2018-10-241h 45
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 6 : Our mystery guest is revealed to be "EZ PETE" - Peter Gaudet, Company E-4We talk to EZ Pete Gaudet, company E-4 "GO NAKED" - He tells the story of first coming to West Point at 10 years old and feeling an immediate connection to the place. As he will learn later in life, his biological roots run deep to West Point. EZ Pete reflects on the close relationship his parents had with all of our E-4 classmates - as was the case being from Westchester County NY, the Gaudet home was a frequent place of respite. They had a toga party where Pete's father dressed up in a toga. Pete remembers company mate...
2018-10-081h 20
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 5 - Scott Clemenson (B2)In this episode we interview our class President Scott Clemenson. We celebrate Army Sprint Football's 21-17 triumph over Navy, and we recount the impressive effort of the "Big Boys" in taking #5 Oklahoma into overtime. We talk about escaping dysfunctional family dynamics, Army Foreign Language School with Dan Clevenger, being in Alpha Company at the Prep School, being a "Duck Hunter" with Brent Crabtree in Korea. We remember fallen classmate Shannon Beebe who had a knack for getting people to volunteer for challenging tasks like running 500th night and the cadet car show. Scott recallse his last ditch effort to get...
2018-09-261h 30
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 4 - Monique Washington (F2)In this episode, we speak to the motorcycle riding, heat-packing, never to be messed with Monique Washington. Who tells her story going back to the first day of prep school and meeting her lifelong battle buddy Ingrid Powell Dawkins. Monique had a conflict with the F2 Zoo tactical officer who was reassigned after an inexplicable situation; We also learn of her need for speed on her pink and gold Honda CVR-RR Racing Bike - and the rolling roadblock that followed. Ingrid calls in, fellow prepster Scott Clemenson also calls in. Together they all remember Andy Clements.
Her brie...
2018-09-171h 34
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 3 - Mark (A4) and Holly West (B2)On location at Class of '91 headquarters, the garage of Mark and Holly West. We talk about the multi-faceted perspectives of the West Family at USMA: As Army Brat, Cadet, Grad Assistant, Professor, USMA staff, and Parent. Today Mark is the Head coach of the Army Sprint Football Team, Holly is the G-5 for USMA. We trace the evolution of West Point's history and tie it back to the impact of General Officer Leadership. Other stories include Holly getting 1st class board as a plebe for blowing post, the connections between company A4 and B2, Experiences as grad assistants f...
2018-08-211h 32
Old Grad PodcastEpisode 2 - Colonel Andy Hall, I-1 Director of the Army Cyber InstituteIn this episode, we talk about the Army Cyber Institute and our class gift to endow the chair of the Institute, Scouting, What its like to be the father of a cadet, managing two Army Careers, Terry Rice ripping his finger off on the clock tower, the evolution of women at West Point, A spirit mission that landed two cadets in the hospital, area tours and so much more. Fallen Classmates mentioned: Bill Hecker, Kim Whittington, Steve Yost and Bill Love.
2018-08-071h 45Old Grad PodcastEpisode 1 - John Keenan (E3)John Keenan talks about his epic question to General H. Norman Schwarzkopf at a mandatory Lecture during firstie year. We also talked about fallen classmates Paul Haggerty, Tommy Mctigue, Bill Hecker and Eric DeJong. ADA officer basic course, stolen ambulances, a "dip cup" thrown out a six-floor window that hit the OC and much more.
2018-07-171h 28