From the Crows' Nest - TopPodcast.com

Latest Episodes:

What Does it Mean to be a Crow? (Part 2) Apr 29, 2026

Show notes

In the second installment of our series, host Ken Miller builds on our previous episode’s exploration of the “crow” identity and what it represents within the electromagnetic warfare (EW) and spectrum operations community.

In this episode, Ken is joined by Sergeant Brandon Smith to dive deeper into the connection between crow behavior and modern electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO). They explore how traits commonly associated with crows, like intelligence, adaptability, and collaboration, mirror the skills required of today’s EMSO warfighters.

Ken and Brandon break down the realities of EW and spectrum management in today’s operational environment, where success depends the ability to think strategically, adapt quickly, and stay ahead of evolving threats. By the end of the conversation, they make a compelling case: The crow isn’t just a nickname, it’s a mindset.

Listen to Part 1 here.

We invite you to share your thoughts, questions, or suggestions for future episodes by emailing host Ken Miller at host@fromthecrowsnest.org or by visiting us on our Instagram @fromthecrowsnestpodcast.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

Adaptation as Advantage in Modern Warfare Apr 15, 2026

Show notes

What really separates winning militaries from losing ones? It may come down to something far less tangible than weapons or technology.

In today’s episode, host Ken Miller sits down with Brian Clark, Senior Fellow at the Hudson Institute, to explore a critical – and often overlooked – factor shaping modern warfare: adaptation. Drawing on insights from recent conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, the conversation examines how the ability to adjust in real time can determine success on the battlefield.

Together, they unpack how rapidly evolving technologies, shifting tactics, and organizational agility are redefining what military advantage really looks like today, without relying on any single breakthrough capability.

Find the full report at the Hudson Institute.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

What Happens When GPS Goes Dark? Apr 01, 2026

Show notes

GPS and GNSS systems quietly power nearly every aspect of modern life, from financial transactions and power grids to aviation and emergency response. But what happens when they’re disrupted?

In this episode, host Ken Miller speaks with Dana Goward, President of the Resilient Navigation and Timing Foundation, about the growing threats to GPS and GNSS infrastructure. They break down how jamming and spoofing work, why these attacks are becoming more accessible, and how real-world incidents have exposed critical vulnerabilities.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

Unlocking Spectrum Dominance With AI and Cognitive EW Mar 18, 2026

Show notes

This week, host Ken Miller sits down with Dr. Karen Haigh to explore the rapidly evolving world of cognitive electromagnetic warfare and its implications for the future of modern military operations.

Dr. Haigh shares her insights on how AI and cognitive systems are transforming military EW capabilities and the challenges that lie ahead.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

Global Tensions from Tehran to Beijing Mar 04, 2026

Show notes

Host Ken Miller is first joined by USAF Col. (Ret.) Jeffrey Fischer, author and now CEO of Fischer Aerospace, to discuss the breaking news of the US and Israel's attack on Iran and what it could mean for the region.

Then, Ken sits down with Dean Cheng, a Non-Resident Senior Fellow at the Potomac Institute for Policy Studies and Non-Resident Fellow at the George Washington University Space Policy Institute. They take a deep dive into the modernization of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) and the evolving security dynamics across the Indo-Pacific, with a focus on China's pursuit of information dominance. The conversation explores how the PLA is adapting its doctrine and capabilities in the EMS, and what that means for the US and its allies.

We invite you to share your thoughts, questions, or suggestions for future episodes by emailing host Ken Miller at host@fromthecrowsnest.org or visit us on our Instagram @fromthecrowsnestpodcast.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

Why EMSO Needs a Seat at the Table Feb 19, 2026

Show notes

Host Ken Miller sits down with Katy Nazaretova of Forza DC to talk about the growing push for a Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Combat Support Agency, and why the timing matters.

Together, they explore the gaps that still exist in military policy, explain how the legislative process actually works behind the scenes, and share what it takes to build support on Capitol Hill. They highlight why advocacy, education, and engagement with the United States Congress are so important and how a more coordinated approach to spectrum operations could strengthen military readiness and overall mission success.

We invite you to share your thoughts, questions, or suggestions for future episodes by emailing host Ken Miller at host@fromthecrowsnest.org or visit us on our Instagram @fromthecrowsnestpodcast.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

Is It Time for an EMSO Force? Feb 04, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of From the Crows' Nest, we go back to AOC 2025, where Ken Miller hosted a live panel with Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Kevin Kennedy, Vice President for Defense Strategy & Warfighting Integration at Mantech. Col. (Ret.) Jeffrey Fischer; and Eric Bamford, Branch Chief EW for the Norwegian Armed Forces and AOC Board Member.

Ken poses the question, “Is it time to establish a dedicated EMSO force?” The panelists discuss the value of international and coalition perspectives, debate whether the electromagnetic spectrum should be treated as its own domain, and explore the industry’s role in advancing military capabilities.

We invite you to share your thoughts, questions, or suggestions for future episodes by emailing host Ken Miller at host@fromthecrowsnest.org or visit us on our Instagram @fromthecrowsnestpodcast.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

The Success of EMSO in Venezuela Jan 21, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, host Ken Miller takes a closer look at a recent US military operation targeting Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro as a case study in how electromagnetic warfare (EW) and directed energy are shaping modern conflict. Journalist Mike Fabey joins the discussion to share insights from his reporting, including the US military’s ability to execute complex missions without losses to friendly forces and the broader strategic message sent to global competitors like China.

Ken then speaks with Dr. David Stoudt, Executive Director of the Directed Energy Professional Society, about the current state of directed energy, its relationship to EW, and the challenges of transitioning these capabilities into operational use, highlighting the growing need for closer collaboration between the EW and directed energy communities.

We invite you to share your thoughts, questions, or suggestions for future episodes by emailing host Ken Miller at host@fromthecrowsnest.org or visit us on our Instagram @fromthecrowsnestpodcast.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

What Does it Mean to be a Crow? (Part 1) Jan 07, 2026

Show notes

In the first of a two-part series, host Ken Miller brings the podcast back to basics and answers key questions newer listeners may not have thought about: Why are members of the electromagnetic warfare and spectrum operations community called crows? Why is the moniker so key to understanding our mission and identity?

In today’s episode, Ken is joined by John Mazluff, Professor of Wildlife Science at the University of Washington and author of “Gifts of the Crow” and “In the Company of Crows and Ravens.” Together, they unpack what makes these birds so remarkable and what EMSO warfighters share in common with some of the most intelligent birds in the world.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

Disruptive EMSO: A Key to Mission Success Dec 17, 2025

Show notes

In discussions of electromagnetic warfare, experts and enthusiasts often discuss the lethal and destructive capabilities of the technology. But effective disruption is a key element to mission success, and today’s guest is at the forefront of conversations on agility and cost effectiveness in the EW space.

But first, host Ken Miller welcomes John Knowles, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED), AOC’s official monthly publication. Ken and John wrap up AOC 2025 by sharing highlights of the week’s keynote speakers and sessions.

Then, Ken speaks with Disruptive EW Machines CEO David Coyle about the role of EW disruption in operation success and making sure warfighters are as agile and adaptive as possible.

Coyle says his company can deploy systems at a fraction of the cost of other legacy systems, reflecting a larger push from the Department of War to quickly deploy agile, adaptive systems. Coyle says this approach reflects the reality of modern electromagnetic warfare, which requires warfighters to rapidly build and train tactics against newer, more complex unidentified threats.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.