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The Forge

The ADC Forge Media channel delivers authoritative audio content in support of professional military education and development. A continuously evolving library of high-quality insights, analyses and expert perspectives tailored for defence professionals.  

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  • 24 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 31 min
  • English

Episodes 24

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  • Tuesday · 18 min

    Data Dominance in Modern Warfare The Crucial Role of AI and Data Analytics

    Artificial intelligence and data analytics are changing how military forces understand, influence and act within the information environment. This article examines how AI can turn vast quantities of data into strategic advantage, from predictive analysis and data fusion to cyber operations, psychological influence and countering misinformation. It also considers the risks accompanying these capabilities, including privacy, bias, accountability and compliance with international law. As data becomes an increasingly important strategic asset, the article argues that achieving data dominance — while maintaining appropriate human oversight — will be critical to success in the future battlespace. Read the article on The Forge

  • Tuesday · 28 min

    A Deep Dive Into Our Tiny Recruitment Pool

    The Australian Defence Force needs thousands of new recruits each year, yet the pool it can realistically draw from is far smaller than Australia’s population figures suggest. This article examines how health, education, criminality and other national characteristics combine with ADF selection requirements to leave fewer than half of 17–24-year-olds eligible to serve. Once willingness to join is added, the potential recruiting pool falls to just 16% — and potentially as low as 11%. It explores what these numbers reveal about the ADF’s persistent recruiting challenge and the limited levers Defence has available to address it. Read the article on the Forge

  • Tuesday · 43 min

    To what extent is memetic warfare applicable to the Australian Defence Force?

    What role could memes play in the future of warfare, and what does that mean for the Australian Defence Force? This article explores the evolution of memetic warfare and examines how memes, narratives and ideas can shape behaviour, influence decision-making and contest the information environment. Drawing on the Russia–Ukraine war and the emergence of online civic resistance groups such as NAFO, it considers how similar dynamics could emerge in a future Indo-Pacific conflict. Rather than presenting memetic warfare as a new military panacea, the article argues that it offers the ADF a useful framework for thinking about narrative and cognitive warfare, with potential applications from operations to training, recruitment and organisational culture. Read the article on the Forge

  • S2 · E2
    August 31 · 38 min

    Podcast | Lives in Leadership: TX Hammes

    Dr Lucas Marie sits down with TX Hammes, a distinguished fellow at the National Defence University's Institute for National Strategic Studies and a 30-year United States Marine Corps veteran with operations in Somalia and Iraq.TX is a leader in his field as one of the most respected voices on the future of warfare, military strategy, and insurgency. He holds a doctorate in modern history from the University of Oxford and is the author of The Sling and the Stone, a landmark examination of how modern conflict has evolved alongside deglobalisation and shifting strategic competition.His research on future conflict and emerging technology has shaped professional military education programs around the world — including here in Australia.

  • S2 · E1
    August 9 · 52 min

    Podcast | Lives in Leadership: SEAC WOFF Ken Robertson OAM

    In this season-opening episode of Lives in Leadership, Dr Lucas Marie speaks with Warrant Officer Ken Robertson, the inaugural Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chief of the Defence Force. Drawing on more than 30 years of service, Robertson discusses the role of influence in leadership, the value of trusted relationships, and how the voice of the enlisted workforce helps inform strategic decision-making across the ADF. The conversation explores leading without formal authority, building a genuinely integrated joint force, and why technical expertise must be matched by emotional intelligence and professional judgement. Relevant well beyond Defence, this episode offers practical insights for anyone seeking to lead effectively in complex organisations.

  • S1 · E4
    August 3 · 34 min

    Podcast | Lives in Leadership: Dr Florence Gaub

    In this episode of Lives in Leadership, Dr Lucas Marie sits down with Dr Florence Gaub — Director of the Research Division at the NATO Defense College, futurist, and global security thinker — to explore the intersection of technology, strategy, and human judgment in defence. Dr Gaub challenges the idea that artificial intelligence is a true revolution in warfare, arguing instead that conflict remains a deeply human enterprise defined by continuity, emotion, and bias. She offers insight into the practice of strategic foresight, explaining how NATO uses “weak signals” and scenario-building to anticipate future risks. The discussion ranges from the cultural and historical roots of strategic identity to global recruitment trends and the myths surrounding younger generations’ “will to fight.” Drawing on NATO research, Dr Gaub presents a compelling, optimistic view of modern military society — one grounded in adaptability, understanding, and purpose. A Transcript and Educational Shownotes⁠⁠ are available on The Forge

  • S1 · E11
    Dec 22, 2025 · 38 min

    Podcast | Lives in Leadership: RADM James Lybrand, RAN

    In this episode of Lives in Leadership, Dr Lucas Marie speaks with Rear Admiral James Lybrand, Commander of the Australian Defence College, whose naval career spans from the submarine force to senior strategic leadership roles. Drawing on decades of operational and educational experience, Rear Admiral Lybrand shares his journey from leading underwater warfare operations to shaping Defence’s professional military education enterprise. He discusses the evolution of his leadership style — from decisive command at sea to reflective mentorship in strategic settings — and the importance of humility, delegation, and trust. He also reflects on the unique challenges of submarine leadership, lessons from high-pressure missions such as the search for MH370, and how the Australian Defence College is preparing future leaders through critical thinking, collaboration, and lifelong learning. A Transcript and Educational Shownotes are available on The Forge

  • S1 · E10
    Dec 15, 2025 · 34 min

    Podcast | Lives in Leadership: WO David Ashley

    In this episode of Lives in Leadership, Dr Lucas Marie speaks with Warrant Officer Dave Ashley, whose Australian Army career spans more than 40 years — including service in South-East Asia, East Timor (Timor-Leste), and Afghanistan. A former Regimental Sergeant Major of the Army, Dave shares candid reflections on leadership across tactical, operational, and strategic levels, emphasising the human dimension of command. He discusses the unique responsibilities of military leaders in times of conflict, the vital role of care and empathy in building resilience, and how the ADF can prepare its people for the uncertainty of future warfare. Drawing from hard-earned lessons and deeply personal experiences, Dave also explores how the Army has changed culturally — becoming more diverse, inclusive, and adaptable — while still holding fast to the fundamentals of discipline, humility, and excellence in leadership. In this episode of Lives in Leadership, Dr Lucas Marie speaks with Warrant Officer Dave Ashley, whose Australian Army career spans more than 40 years — including service in South-East Asia, East Timor (Timor-Leste), and Afghanistan. A former Regimental Sergeant Major of the Army, Dave shares candid reflections on leadership across tactical, operational, and strategic levels, emphasising the human dimension of command. He discusses the unique responsibilities of military leaders in times of conflict, the vital role of care and empathy in building resilience, and how the ADF can prepare its people for the uncertainty of future warfare. Drawing from hard-earned lessons and deeply personal experiences, Dave also explores how the Army has changed culturally — becoming more diverse, inclusive, and adaptable — while still holding fast to the fundamentals of discipline, humility, and excellence in leadership. A Transcript and Educational Shownotes⁠ are available on The Forge

  • S1 · E5
    Nov 10, 2025 · 27 min

    Podcast | Lives in Leadership: RADM Paul Halton

    From the depths of a Royal Navy submarine to the complexities of defence transformation, Rear Admiral Paul Halton has built a career leading people and organisations through uncertainty. In this episode of Lives in Leadership, he speaks with Dr Lucas Marie about: • Rebuilding trust and confidence in teams facing cultural decline • Balancing agility and discipline in long-term strategic programs • The shared leadership challenges of the UK and Australian defence contexts Halton’s reflections cut to the heart of what it means to lead with clarity, consistency, and purpose — lessons that resonate for every Defence professional navigating change. A Transcript and Educational Shownotes⁠⁠ are available on The Forge

  • S1 · E3
    Oct 27, 2025 · 31 min

    Podcast | Lives in Leadership: AVM Steven “Zed” Roberton

    In this episode of Lives in Leadership, Dr Lucas Marie speaks with Air Vice-Marshal Steven “Zed” Roberton, Distinguished Service Cross, about his remarkable journey through three decades of command in the Royal Australian Air Force and beyond. From leading Operation Okra—the largest RAAF deployment since Vietnam—to navigating multinational coalition dynamics and later entering the private sector, AVM Roberton shares lessons on trust, adaptability, and ethical decision-making in complex environments. The conversation explores how core leadership values—respect, integrity, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence—transcend both military and civilian life, and why ethical awareness is more critical than ever in an age of artificial intelligence and rapid technological change. A Transcript and Educational Shownotes⁠⁠ are available on The Forge

  • S1 · E2
    Oct 20, 2025 · 36 min

    Podcast | Lives in Leadership: Dr Leigh Ann Perry

    In this episode, Dr Lucas Marie speaks with Doctor Leigh Ann Perry, an associate professor of psychology and behavioural science at the US Naval War College. She is a leading expert in applying positive psychology to military leadership development. Dr Perry’s work focuses on well-being, resilience, and mindfulness. A Transcript and Educational Shownotes⁠⁠ are available on The Forge

  • S1 · E1
    Oct 9, 2025 · 37 min

    Podcast | Lives in Leadership: RADM Lee Goddard

    Rear Admiral Lee Goddard shares candid lessons from 34 years in the Navy and beyond. From commanding warships to shaping defence policy, he reflects on leadership, high-performing teams, and the importance of knowing your people. Transcript and Shownotes are available on the Forge.

  • Sep 5, 2025 · 45 min

    Audio Book | Clausewitz & Centres of Gravity Open to Interpretation

    Trying to understand the abstruse messages of Carl von Clausewitz’s On War can be both mind-numbing and mind-blowing. However, interpretation is the key to unpacking his obsession with the ‘centre of gravity’ as being critical to how forces generate strength.

  • Sep 5, 2025 · 19 min

    Audio Book | The Use of Force by States Under International Law

    Explore the legality of war in our final series instalment. Delve into the complex interplay between international law, military ethics, and the principles guiding the use of force. From 'Just War Theory' to modern legal frameworks, understand the intricate balance of morality, authority, and legality in warfare.

Showing 1–20 of 24 episodes