Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie

Latest Episodes:

Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie-Episode 22: Modernizing with Purpose: How NAVWAR Is Empowering People, Not Just Upgrading Tech Jan 12, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie, we sit down with NAVWAR’s Command Information Officer, Ben Motten, to explore what it really means to modernize with purpose. This isn’t just a tech upgrade—it’s a people-first, mission-aligned transformation. Tune in to hear how his team is cutting through legacy red tape, driving smarter processes, and answering the big question: Are we winning? From secure access with Flank Speed to building a digitally confident workforce, this episode breaks down the metrics, mindset, and modern tools behind NAVWAR’s tech evolution.

Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie - Episode 25: Data to Decision: How NAVWAR is Building an AI-Ready Workforce Nov 17, 2025

Show notes

How do you turn data into decisions that drive the Fleet? In this video episode of Empowering Excellence, Art and Frankie sit down with David Byres, Program Director for NAVWAR’s Data Science Learning Program (DSLP) — the team behind one of the Navy’s most in-demand and fastest-growing training initiatives. What began in 2020 as a single data science course has evolved into a powerhouse program delivering more than 10,000 training sessions across the Department of the Navy. From foundational analytics to cutting-edge generative AI and prompt engineering, the DSLP is transforming how Sailors and civilians approach data, innovation, and mission impact. In this conversation, we explore: • How NAVWAR is leading the charge in data-driven decision-making • The rise of generative AI and its implications for the Navy • Practical training that is helping teams modernize and innovate • New offerings like the AI Bootcamp and leadership-focused AI courses Whether you're part of NAVWAR, considering joining the Navy tech community, or interested in how AI and data science are reshaping defense, this episode offers a clear look at how learning is powering innovation across the Fleet. Watch the full conversation to see how NAVWAR is turning information into action.

Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie-Episode 24: NAVWAR Next Aug 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we ride the wave of change with NAVWAR Executive Director John Pope to explore NAVWAR Next, the strategic transformation reshaping how we operate, support the Fleet, and stay ahead in a dynamic threat environment. From standing up a Cybersecurity Directorate and integrating AI to streamlining logistics and redefining readiness, NAVWAR Next is about more than structure—it’s a mindset. Whether you're part of our NAVWAR team, a future employee, or a Navy partner, this conversation unpacks what’s changing, why it matters, and how you play a role in building a more agile, integrated, and mission-ready NAVWAR.

Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie-Episode 23: Inside the Digital Shift: Streamlining Engineering at NAVWAR May 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Frankie and guest host Jen Carney sit down with Rob Weaver to talk about how mission engineering is transforming the way NAVWAR meets complex challenges—and how leadership plays a key role in that transformation. Rob shares insights on breaking down technical complexity, streamlining engineering processes, and creating a culture of innovation using Digital Engineering. As NAVWAR's Supervisor of the Year, he also reflects on what it means to empower people—not just processes.

Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie-Episode 21: The Heart of Leadership with CMC Jen Hafer Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Empowering Excellence with Art and Frankie, Command Master Chief (CMC) Jen Hafer joins the conversation to discuss her role at NAVWAR and her vision for the command. As the senior enlisted leader, CMC Hafer focuses on the human factors that contribute to mission success—mentorship, professional development, and overall well-being—rather than technical expertise. She introduces her philosophy of Vitamin C—Connections, Character, and Competence, emphasizing the key attributes that shape strong leaders and teams. She also shares how the Power of Positivity (POP) can create a healthier, more engaged workforce. Additionally, CMC Hafer highlights the NAVWAR wellness program and its role in fostering a culture of balance and resilience. This episode offers insight into how leadership, positivity, and a people-first approach can enhance both individual and organizational success at NAVWAR.

Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie-Episode 20: Get to Know RADM Seiko Okano - Leading NAVWAR with Vision and Purpose Jan 24, 2025

Show notes

Join us for an inspiring conversation with NAVWAR’s new commander, RADM Seiko Okano, who came aboard in August 2024. In this first-ever video podcast episode, RADM Okano shares her journey, the challenges she’s faced, and the role models who shaped her leadership style. She also talks about her vision to unite the NAVWAR workforce, helping everyone feel the power of what NAVWAR brings to the fight. Her focus is on creating alignment—connecting the entire team to the mission, the challenges we’re working to solve, and showing each person how they fit into the bigger picture. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from RADM Okano as she leads NAVWAR into its next chapter.

Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie-Episode 19: Shaping Innovators: NIWC Pacific's Pathways to Excellence Jan 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Empowering Excellence with Art and Frankie, we’re joined by Mike McMillian, aka "Spock," the Executive Director of NIWC Pacific for part two of his interview. Spock sheds light on the incredible career opportunities at the Navy’s premier research lab, highlighting the New Professionals Program, which offers rotational technical tours across departments to build diverse skills and experiences. He also explores the importance of diversity—particularly diversity of thought—and how it fuels innovation to solve the Navy’s toughest challenges. He dives into NIWC Pacific’s robust STEM outreach programs, which span K-12 through college, inspiring and preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers. These efforts are critical to building a talent pipeline that will tackle complex problems and deliver solutions to support our warfighters. Finally, we discuss the lab’s impactful community partnerships, including its collaboration with the National Foundation for Autism Research (NFAR), which opens doors for individuals with unique talents. Tune in to discover how NIWC Pacific is shaping the future of innovation and excellence through outreach, diversity, and opportunity!

Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie-Episode 18: Innovating Across Domains - Inside NIWC Pacific with Mike 'Spock' McMillan Dec 16, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Empowering Excellence with Art and Frankie, we are joined by Mike "Spock" McMillan, Executive Director of Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific (NIWC PAC). Spock provides an in-depth overview of this extraordinary organization, which stands as one of the only entities within the U.S. Navy to oversee programs spanning the entire technology lifecycle: research and development, prototyping, test and evaluation, production, and sustainment. With 800+ active programs supporting all warfighting domains—from land and sea to space and cyberspace—NIWC PAC plays a pivotal role in driving innovation and ensuring operational readiness. Join us as Spock highlights the unique contributions of NIWC PAC, the groundbreaking work being done across these domains, and the vital impact this organization has on advancing the Navy’s mission.

Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie-Episode 17: From Crypto to Analytics – Safeguarding Navy Networks Sep 27, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Empowering Excellence for National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we are joined by Jeff Sanders, Program Manager of the Navy’s Cybersecurity Program Office (PMW 130). Together, they explore the critical role that PMW 130 plays in defending Navy networks against evolving cyber threats. From cryptography and key management to network security and cyber analytics, Jeff shares insights into the programs and initiatives that ensure the Navy’s operational readiness in the face of modern cyber challenges. Tune in to learn more about cybersecurity careers at NAVWAR and PEO C4I and how these efforts are shaping the future of Navy cybersecurity.

Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie-Episode 16: Nurturing the Next Generation Sep 09, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie, we explore NAVWAR’s impactful STEM Outreach and Academic Engagement programs, which are designed to inspire and nurture the next generation of scientists and engineers. Join us as we chat with Christina Roc, STEM and Academic Engagement Director at Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, to discuss the exciting work being done to engage students from K-12 all the way to university level. We’ll dive into how these programs create pathways into the workforce for STEM graduates, foster academic partnerships, and address real-world challenges in information warfare. Whether you're interested in education, innovation, or how NAVWAR is shaping the future, this episode offers a fascinating look at the role of STEM in national defense. Don’t miss out on hearing about how these initiatives are changing lives and contributing to a stronger, more innovative future!

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Empowering Excellence with Art & Frankie

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected