Too many Americans don't know why TWN matters. This graphic might help. Implications go beyond subjugation of 23M Taiwanese to CCP repression. Many of our vital interests are at stake and global geostrategic dynamics would shift significantly in our disfavor.
CCP success in rapidly modernizing their military can be chalked up to a cunning strategy to steal U.S. intellectual property, insinuate Chinese into our tech centers, and outfox U.S. companies fixated on short-term thinking. We underestimate China's strategy at our peril!
Hard to admit Hollywood has become a handmaiden of the CCP. They cooperate with Chinese censors to curate a 100% benevolent view of China for profit. China's co-option of our entertainment industry robs us of the truth about dangers to our society. Time to reverse course.
Some suggest Xi wouldn't ever risk worsening China's economic troubles by making a major move on Taiwan now, 3...5...7 years from now, or ever. I get asked a lot why everyone seems to be making a big deal over Taiwan. Here's my answer:
A few examples of China employing illegal, coercive, and dangerous tactics in the South China Sea. Bullying behaviors are also applied against Taiwan, Japan, Bhutan, India, Mekong nations, Australia, etc. China's "rise" has become a true threat to many.
A clip giving a glimpse of China's staggering military advances over 25 yrs, which continue at a gallop. Every nation has a right to do this. The problem is China's increasing aggressiveness toward its neighbors, destabilizing a region key to the world's economic future.
A list of inconvenient truths regarding China. Our country's national leaders continue to refuse to be honest to the American people about these things. Americans deserve better and should be trusted with the truth.
America continues to underestimate the PRC's global influence. Over many years, Beijing has cleverly used its economic leverage to influence political choices in both the Global South & North. The slide below shows how we got here, the PRC blueprint for subverting others:
America naval gazes and remains consumed with internal squabbles while a greater threat looms large. The
#2
power on the planet has been concentrating its energies to overturn the current int'l order and delights in America's self-debilitating domestic polarization.
At times we need to step back in time & space to see a problem more clearly. This graphic shows more & more PLA Navy & Coast Guard presence in the S China Sea in the first 7 yrs of Xi’s rule. An updated version would show more bright red near PHL. In sum: PRC maritime colonialism
U.S. leaders, regardless of party, must better communicate dangers to American interests outside our borders affecting every one of us. Sadly, America is becoming like an ostrich with its head buried in our domestic sands even as nation-state adversaries reshape the world.
We've come full circle in our relations with China from Cold War animus to cooperation and now back to tension. The U.S. deluded itself into thinking China would be politically transformed by trade, whereas the CCP always viewed relations as transactions to grow PRC power.
China's assertiveness on the world stage and its confidence in pursuing territorial claims swings on how they rate their own comprehensive national power vs others. We don't have perfect knowledge on their calculus, but analysts from MITRE uncovered these insights. Listen here:
We should be aware of China's self-talk about America and how Beijing uses its global propaganda to smear the U.S. These narratives resonate throughout the Global South. We need to be at our best with our public diplomacy and shape narratives before its too late.
Rising strategic tension b/t nation-states is not just a PRC vs a U.S. thing. It's about how power will be used to reshape the internat'l order and rules that govern interstate relations. Many nations have benefited from the existing system in blue. China stands for the red.
We are too anemic in describing the tectonic geopolitical challenges facing America and we are leaving our adversaries to shape the global narrative about our country. My OpEd explains we can and must do better in the information domain.
It's a specious argument to say we're not in a Cold War-like environment with the CCP. By not calling a spade a spade, White House officials withhold the most suitable organizing principle for mustering whole-of-society efforts to deal with our most significant 21stC challenge.
If you want an executive-level education on comprehensive dangers from China, ones which we are insufficiently addressing as a nation, then see my overview speech at a conference in San Diego: "An Intelligence Officer's Perspective on China."
Honored to join a US-TWN Defense Industry Conf panel discussing the PRC’s ongoing low intensity warfare to achieve “effective control” within the 1st Island Chain. Exposing PRC bullying should continue, but econ & diplomatic costs should also be exacted—time to go asymmetric!
One of my talks last year shines a light on why the Taiwan issue has skyrocketed into a top-tier international security concern. Spoiler alert: Xi. I'll send a few vid snippets and invite commentary.
This is how China curates a beneficent view of itself to the world. Infrastructure deals and basic trading are not inherently malign, but Beijing has ulterior motives to penetrate, coopt, and bend foreign political and business elites to their will.
These are our info age realities, so the U.S. needs to get its act together. Existing efforts are inadequate. We are in a Cold War-like condition with China & Russia. We face the double danger of POTUS candidates not talking about these dangers & Hollywood keeping its silence.
No one knows China's timing for annexing Taiwan. Here's a way to understand the critical factors. Xi's strategic intentions are clear & the PLA's capabilities are burgeoning. After 2027, the key factors to watch will relate to opportunity. Study those to improve predictions.
An entire chapter of my book discusses civility as a key leadership trait. Our country will always have its disagreements--it's how we disagree that matters most. I choose respectful debate over useless hate.
First-ever book signing event! Sold and dedicated each of my 50 Might of the Chain books in a few hours at the Intelligence and National Security Summit yesterday. Thanks to Ray Cross for opening a table and appreciate all those who bought a copy. Enjoy!
Listen here for a brief reminder of the importance of character. Most of the toxicity in our society can be traced to the root source of people with weak character exerting too much non-productive influence over other citizens. Don't be that person.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
@gmanews
@jovilandxrita
Another in a running series of Chinese illegal bullying actions nowhere near China and well inside the Philippines Exclusive Economic Zone. And the CCP wonders why so many coalitions are building against them in the region. This is called “geopolitical autism.”
Happy to report that a new book called "Imagine: Winning the New Cold War" is now published and available on Amazon. My father and I were two of 50 national security professionals who contributed to this work. My chapter is called "The Danger of American Geopolitical Denialism."
Ways to wage the truth against authoritarian regimes that are aggressive in using every instrument of their national power to delegitimize the West. When China and Russia use information operations, they are manipulating. When we use ours, we are educating.
One's attitude can help one avoid becoming a victim of circumstance. Best exemplified in a book called Endurance about Sir Ernest Shackleton's 1914 trans-Antarctic expedition gone awry and his herculean efforts to rescue his crew.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
Let's get real. Xi continues preparing for war, though he'd prefer to annex territory like Taiwan without fighting. Given the extreme dangers, we as a nation need to strengthen our net capabilities, reduce our vulnerabilities, and prepare for the worst.
People ask about my book title Might of the Chain. It comes from one of the Laws of the Navy and it is both a warning and a hope that Americans realize their fates are intertwined and we must work together to advance our society. Divided, only our external adversaries win.
The fountainhead of all truly superb leaders is a good character. If you have character, nothing else matters. If you don't have character, nothing else matters. Worth remembering as we select or deselect people eager for power.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
@andrewmichta
Heed truth-telling from someone who “gets it.” America needs great leaders with both geostrategic sense and the articulation skills to marshal our country to address these realities head on. Burying our heads in the sand just puts us closer to the grave. Our adversaries are
I'm pleased to report that we've passed the 500 books sold mark just three weeks after release. Thanks for all the incredible support and positive feedback so far. Get your own copy and help restore enlightened and inspiring leadership in our country!
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
A word on how accountability is such a critical component of leadership. Get more richness by snagging your copy of Might of the Chain: Forging Leaders of Iron Integrity at
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Human pettiness hasn't changed much. Dante wrote The Inferno in the 1300s. During his fictional tour on the 8th circle of hell, Virgil chastises Dante for an unhealthy curiosity in the useless wrangling & vulgar debate b/t the condemned. Sound familiar? We can be better. Try.
Catching some light surf at Nag’s Head in the mist. I write about balance in Might of the Chain, but prefer to live it out! Make sure you drop in to your own personal sources of rejuvenation.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
If you want to be a pro leader and thrive in life, then read my leadership book called Might of the Chain: Forging Leaders of Iron Integrity. Amazon & JPL carry it. My vid explains the title. Sign up for free leadership insights here (hit "about"):
From my book Might of the Chain: "Every citizen should understand the price of freedom is upholding their personal duty to project their best selves into the world, to generate more flex than friction along the master cables of our lives." Lead and act with honor, always!
My 2nd book signing. On the Naval Academy yards. Proud of all the sharp & energetic midshipmen who will see us through our toughest 21st C challenges. Also jazzed to see so many old friends. However you, too, serve our nation, do it with honor!
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
My squadron mates on the eve of DESERT STORM who bravely flew the A-6 Intruder aircraft through heavy air defenses deep into Iraq on dangerous missions. As an Ensign in war I learned that pressure is a cooperative precondition for high performance.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
Thanks to widespread enthusiasm, we have passed 1,000 books delivered in 10 weeks since Might of the Chain was released. If you want to become the leader you are meant to be and accelerate your life, get yours now at or Amazon.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
My author's box arrived! First glimpse at my leadership book, which I wrote out of deep concern for our country after retiring from 35 years in the Navy.
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Only enlightened, principled, and inspiring leaders can fix America's current self-defeating divisiveness and dysfunction. Vote smart.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
Ok, friends, I’ve started recording the audio book version of Might of the Chain. Wish me luck. The paperback and ebook are already available through Amazon, JPL, and Stone Tower Press. Get yours!
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Sharing my first leadership "minute" on X. I used to send out leadership tips readable in less than 60 seconds while in uniform commanding major Navy and Joint organizations.
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Honored to receive the highest rating of 4 out of 4 “Trenchcoats” (stars) from the The Cipher Brief in this review of my leadership book.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
All the reasons why Taiwan matters plays between 1:45 and 6:45 in this podcast I was honored to do with Major General (ret) Mick Ryan from Australia. We reviewed other consequential geopolitical issues in the region as well.
A cool description of my book: "Aesop's Fables on Leadership." I think they liked my short and colorful chapters that got right to the point. I wrote it that way out of respect for busy people's time, your time.
Leaders are well-rounded and take care of their own mind, body, and spirit so they can then help others do the same. I write about the importance of vigor in my new book: Might of the Chain. Get out there!
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
Let's tap the wisdom of the world together, four quotes at a time. Quotes from accomplished people should make you think first, then act and live up to what you are learning. Onward!
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
My synopsis of the current state of play in the U.S.-China relationship. I remain mystified as to why we've allowed the CCP to silence necessary White House/Cabinet conversations in our own country about the dangers posed by China to the American people.
3/4 of our former 2015 National War College Adventure Racing team will compete at the Adventure Racing National Championships in W Virginia late next month. Wish Dan, John, and me luck. Get out there!
A treasured pic with two great former senior Navy officers, Phil Yu (left) & Greg Glaros (right). Greg was a pilot in my squadron during DESERT STORM and helped review my book drafts. Admiral Farragut, the Navy's first full admiral, watches over us.
#LeaderswithIronIntegrity
How I started out in the Navy, my father as a Vice Admiral saluting my company (I'm at the far right) during graduation from Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island in 1989. I would at war in DESERT STORM less than 2 years later.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
I wrote this book b/c we face a nation-wide leadership dilemma. Polls: 4/5 agree there is a leadership crisis in gov't & corporate America. Only 1/5 workers trust their leaders. 3/5 workers don't see leaders they aspire to be. 1/6 trust Washington. Only 1/3 trust mass media.
There sits perhaps the best example of a leader of iron integrity. Exercising “integrity” means being honest, acting with moral principles, and uniting to make something whole. Lead like Lincoln!
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
I'm pleased to share my leadership book website. Includes the vid on why I wrote it, short audio clips on leadership, quotable book quotes, ordering buttons, newsletter sign-up, and endorsements. Lead well! Lead better! Lead best!
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
A joy to chat with Professor Joe Nye at the Aspen Security Forum. He’s one of America’s intellectual giants and I’m honored to see my book is in his hands. Lead smart!
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
Starting at the 6:20 mark I discuss China's overall maritime capabilities, territorial advances, time horizons, communications issues, and how Beijing makes strategic choices.
I’m not great, but I partake. With fellow racer Wilo at the end of a 24-hour Adventure Racing Solo Championship in Georgia. Keep pushing yourself in a variety of pursuits to create sources of strength that you can parlay into other areas of your life.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
Sharing my talk on whether Sino-U.S. Conflict is Inevitable, part of a lecture series sponsored by Osher at Dartmouth. China backed out of the debate. This is an important strategic issue given the catastrophic global implications of a Sino-U.S. war.
Humbled to receive Prof Joe Nye's endorsement of Might of the Chain: "Mike Studeman's book is full of wisdom about leadership, and what's more, it's a very enjoyable read." I, in turn, commend his latest book A Life in the American Century.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
Please consider supporting an event to raise awareness for Connect Our Kids, a small org using tech to make life-changing connections for children in foster care. Event open to all: Thu Sep 12, 5:30-7:30 pm (AAFMAA Manor, 1850 Old Reston Ave, Reston, VA).
"Leading well is the quintessential source of American excellence, the indispensable virtue that has enabled greatness in our land. But we are overdue for a revitalization of this skill across the American polity and within the fabric of our society." From Might of the Chain.
On Richard Zalski's show we discuss America's leadership crisis, Might of the Chain, the Indo-Pacific, military recruitment, and geostrategic dynamics.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
Amazon now carries both my paperbook and e-book. Please provide your feedback and reviews if you have the time and inclination. I'd love to hear from you. Lead admirably!
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
A 20-minute conversation with Hugh Hewitt on his radio show discussing China then excerpts from my new leadership book "Might of the Chain: Forging Leaders of Iron Integrity." Be part of the leadership solution!
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
Ever hopeful for the next wave of American leaders who are mature enough to rise above today’s animus and inspire us to work together for the common good, regardless of party affiliation.
#LeadwithIronIntegrity
"The character of today’s great power rivalry is different but its nature is the same. The sooner we own up to the geopolitical ambitions, objectives, and stratagems of state-based enemies that mean us harm in an epic global struggle..."
So proud of our Wanderlust team spirit and successful finish in the 30-hour US Adventure Racing National Championship in W Va this weekend. Amazed by the grit of teammates John and Kim. We raced for those in our 2016 National War College class who fought or still fight cancer.
An extract from my chapter: "Those who deny we are in a Cold War-like environment are forestalling the organizing principle America requires to muster the unity of national and international efforts required to deal with the magnitude of the problem."
"Of course, no two Cold Wars are exactly alike (there have been many over the millennium). Each historical period is idiosyncratic. However, planet-shaking geopolitical rivalries tend to rhyme a lot."
@globaltaiwan
Honored to join the Global Taiwan Institute for their annual conference and discuss security matters with Liza Tobin, Bonny Lin, BG (ret) Dave Stilwell, and John Dotson. My message: Never underestimate your adversary. China's tech-thieving for years has created a powerful PLA.
@stavridisj
@thecipherbrief
Admiral, appreciate your kind comment and thanks for being a stellar example of a leader who always leads with iron integrity.