The Pomp Podcast
#487 Tony Thomas on Defense, Technology, and Leadership
- General Tony Thomas's 40-year military career spanning combat in Iraq, Afghanistan, and leadership as 11th Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).
- Evolution of military technology on the battlefield, including drones, AI, machine learning, and unmanned systems, with emphasis on closing the gap between innovation in tech and slow DOD acquisition cycles.
- Vulnerabilities in space and the critical need for a Space Force to compete against Chinese and Russian capabilities already positioned as threats.
- End-state versus end-date strategy in Middle East conflicts; lessons from 20 years of wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
- Leadership principles emphasizing listening, knowing your people, and understanding that everyone struggles with invisible demons.
- Transition from military to private sector work with Lux Capital and venture-backed companies focused on AI and emerging technologies.