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Inside the Castle

Author: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Headquarters

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This podcast is hosted by the Revolutionize USACE Civil Works team and is intended to share best practices and strategic insight with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers staff and external partners
150 Episodes
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In this second episode of “Stone by Stone,” a new “Inside the Castle” podcast series, we talk with Frannie Bui, the National Hurricane Program Manager for the National Planning Center of Expertise for Coastal Storm Risk Management, which is located in the Corps’ Baltimore District. Listen as Bui discusses hurricanes preparedness, the National Hurricane Program and the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. The National Hurricane Program is a federal interagency partnership between the Corps, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The program provides tools and resources to plan, prepare for and manage risk against hurricanes, delivers comprehensive hurricane evacuation training and technical support to partners and provides real-time information and guidance to state and local emergency managers in support of their hurricane evacuation decisions during hurricane approach. The “Stone by Stone” series is bite size in scope, providing listeners with a shorter, focused update on critical U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-related issues impacting our nation. The “Inside the Castle” podcast goes behind castle doors to have real conversations with real people about solving the nation’s toughest challenges.
Welcome to the first installment of “Stone by Stone,” a new "Inside the Castle" podcast series that is bite size in scope, providing listeners with a shorter, focused update on critical U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-related issues impacting our nation. Today, we delve into the critical issues facing the Mississippi River with Dr. Robert L. Miller, following the conclusion of the Mississippi River Commission’s annual low-water inspection trip. The MRC, a vital part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, works to maintain and improve the Mississippi River system for navigation, commerce, and environmental stewardship. Dr. Miller, a distinguished member of the MRC with a background in civil engineering and extensive experience in water resource management, recently completed the journey down the river, assessing conditions and engaging with stakeholders as historically low water levels continue to impact navigation, commerce, and communities along the river system. This annual inspection trip is a cornerstone of the MRC’s mission to gather firsthand information and address concerns from local communities. In this insightful interview, Dr. Miller discusses the MRC’s observations and ongoing efforts to maintain a navigable river for vital economic activity. He shares insights gleaned from his decades of experience, including his previous roles with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and the Louisiana State Legislature. We’ll explore the impacts on barge traffic, the national supply chain, and the long-term strategies being considered to ensure the Mississippi River remains a crucial artery for the nation.
Welcome to the first installment of “Stone by Stone,” a new "Inside the Castle" podcast series that is bite size in scope, providing listeners with a shorter, focused update on critical U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-related issues impacting our nation. Listen as we delve into the critical issues facing the Mississippi River with Dr. Robert L. Miller, following the conclusion of the Mississippi River Commission’s annual low-water inspection trip. The MRC, a vital part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, works to maintain and improve the Mississippi River system for navigation, commerce, and environmental stewardship. Dr. Miller, a distinguished member of the MRC with a background in civil engineering and extensive experience in water resource management, recently completed the journey down the river, assessing conditions and engaging with stakeholders as historically low water levels continue to impact navigation, commerce, and communities along the river system. This annual inspection trip is a cornerstone of the MRC’s mission to gather firsthand information and address concerns from local communities. In this insightful interview, Dr. Miller discusses the MRC’s observations and ongoing efforts to maintain a navigable river for vital economic activity. He shares insights gleaned from his decades of experience, including his previous roles with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and the Louisiana State Legislature. We’ll explore the impacts on barge traffic, the national supply chain, and the long-term strategies being considered to ensure the Mississippi River remains a crucial artery for the nation.
Welcome to the Build Strong With Us series where we give our listeners an opportunity to learn more about the diverse people, mission impact, and career opportunities our personnel experience within the US Army Corps of Engineers. In this edition we talk with US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Anthony Watters, a Maintenance Supervisor for Wolf Creek and Laurel Power Plants working on the front lines of hydropower.
In this episode of Inside the Castle, we spotlight the critical and often lesser-known role of tribal liaisons within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Join us as we sit down with Melissa Leslie (Seattle District) and Sean O'Donnell (Alaska District) to explore how these dedicated professionals build government-to-government relationships with Tribal Nations and Alaska Native communities. From honoring treaty rights and navigating complex land challenges to advocating for infrastructure needs and cultural preservation, our guests share personal stories and professional insights about what it means to serve as a bridge between the Corps and sovereign tribal partners. Tune in for an honest, thoughtful conversation on trust, responsibility, and the power of listening ... and discover how these liaisons are shaping a trusted and collaborative future for the Corps.
In this special episode, we sit down with Mr. Edward Belk, Director of Civil Works for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, as he prepares to retire after 38 years of extraordinary service. From humble beginnings as a temporary GS-9 on a Mississippi River survey crew to leading the entire Civil Works Directorate, Mr. Belk shares the stories, challenges, and human connections that defined his career. Listen in as he reflects on: • The power of people in public service • Lessons learned from flood response and war zones • The future of water infrastructure in America • Why the Corps' mission matters more than ever • Encouragement for the next generation of leaders Whether you're a Corps insider, a federal employee, or simply curious about what goes on "inside the castle," this episode is a masterclass in leadership, humility, and service to country. Listen now and be inspired by one man’s journey through decades of dedication, challenges, and unforgettable river stories.
In this edition we talk with US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Brittany Bruder a Coastal Research Engineer with the US Army Corps of Engineers Engineer Research and Development Center, Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory – Field Research Facility.
In this edition we talk with US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Brian Ellis with the US Army Corps of Engineers Aviation Program Office based in Huntsville, Alabama. Brian spent a career in uniform in the aviation field, and is now applying that expertise and knowledge to drive innovation within the Corps of Engineers.
Welcome to the Build Strong With Us podcast series where we give our listeners an opportunity to learn more about the people, mission impact, and career opportunities our personnel experience within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In this edition, we talk with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' (USACE) Eric Daniels with the Talent Acquisition Center of Excellence. Eric began working in the field of talent acquisition while in uniform as an Army recruiter. After retiring, he explored other career opportunities, but the call to help the Army attract and retain top talent called him back. To suggest a topic for a future episode, email BuildStrongWithUs@usace.army.mil.
In this episode, we are joined by COL Pabis, Commander of the New England District. We’ll hear about the District’s role in shaping USACE, and the valuable work being done today and in the future.
Episode title: People First series – Portland District’s Public Affairs Office on Being Responsibility Unhinged Episode description: Today’s episode is part of our “People First” series where we celebrate unity, empowerment and the Corps great asset, our people! In this episode, the Inside the Castle team is joined by Chris Gaylord and Kerry Solan with the Portland District - the team behind one of the Corps’ most creative public affairs offices. Known for their humorous and engaging social media – including their famous cat and dog calendars – they’re redefining how the Corps connects with the public. We’ll dive into their creative process, the impact of humor in public communications, the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Download your 2025 pet calendars here: 2025 Cat Calendar: https://usace.contentdm.oclc.org/utils/getfile/collection/p16021coll11/id/7214 2025 Dog Calendar: https://usace.contentdm.oclc.org/utils/getfile/collection/p16021coll11/id/7215
Welcome to the Build Strong With Us podcast series where we give our listeners an opportunity to learn more about the people, mission impact, and career opportunities our personnel experience within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In this edition, we talk with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' (USACE) Crystal Torgerson with the Logistics Activity. Crystal started her career as a federal employee working at a military grocery store. Through college she participated in the Pathways internship program, ultimately earning a full-time position upon her graduation. With a love of logistics, she has worked her way through the ranks and now serves as a senior civilian program manager, illustrating the opportunities to build a career within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. To suggest a topic for a future episode, email BuildStrongWithUs@usace.army.mil.
This past fall the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers welcomed Major General Jason E. Kelly as the Deputy Commanding General for Civil Works and Emergency Operations. In this episode, we have a candid conversation with Major General Kelly about his career, the Corps focus areas, and how he is helping the Corps deliver the mission for the Nation.
Welcome to the Build Strong With Us podcast series where we give our listeners an opportunity to learn more about the diverse people, mission impact, and career opportunities our personnel experience within the US Army Corps of Engineers. In this edition we talk with US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Nikki Edelenbos with the Jacksonville District. Nikki has been with USACE just about one year. In this episode we will discuss her path into USACE, her passion for the work she does, and what she has learned about USACE over the past year. To suggest a topic for a future episode, email BuildStrongWithUs@usace.army.mil.
This is part one of a three-part series focused on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer's (USACE) Critical Incident Stress Management Program (CISM). The mission of the CISM program is to provide education, support, and assistance to USACE employees for incidental or cumulative critical incident stress experienced in the performance of their jobs and/or in the event of major civil emergencies, natural disasters or military contingencies. 24/7 CISM helpline 314-925-5250 Email: cism-vm@usace.army.mil FOR USACE STAFF ONLY: Join the CISM Team: Visit the CISM SharePoint portal under "how can I help?"
In this episode, we sit down with USACE Engineering & Construction (E&C) leadership to discuss some of the recent strategic initiatives and future of E&C in the Corps. Listen in as we talk about what it means to deliver quality consistently, develop and enable the workforce, and leverage collaboration and innovation across E&C as we all work together to safely deliver quality projects on time and within budget.
This is the final episode of our three-part series commemorating the 200th anniversary of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program. In this episode, Mr. Jonah Bea-Taylor from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Office of History joins us to talk about how the Corps' civil works mission evolved after the Civil War. Listen in to hear how the Corps' civil works program expanded to multiple missions across the Nation. To learn more about the Corps history, visit https://www.usace.army.mil/About/History/
In this episode we take a closer look at the latest innovation revolutionizing the way the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) does business. Listen in as Jennifer Moyer, Chief of the USACE Regulatory Program, introduces the new Regulatory Request System. The Regulatory Request System is a web-based tool that helps a person find general permitting information, submit an individual and general permit application, submit pre-application meeting requests, and jurisdictional determination requests using online forms. You can find this tool at https://rrs.usace.army.mil/rrs Have your tried RSS? Let us know what you think at rrs@usace.army.mil
This is the second episode of our three-part series commemorating the 200th anniversary of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program. In this episode, Mr. John Lonnquest, PhD., Chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Office of History joins us to talk about how the General Survey Act contributed to the establishment of the Corps of Topographical Engineers in 1838. He also talks about the Corps' first civil works projects and why they were so important to the Corps and the Nation. To learn more about the Corps history, visit https://www.usace.army.mil/About/History/
This episode marks the beginning of our special three-part series commemorating the 200th anniversary of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program. We kick the series off with Matthew Pearcy, from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Office of History, for an in-depth look at the legislative milestones that shaped the Corps into the world-class organization it is today. To learn more about the Corps history, visit https://www.usace.army.mil/About/History/
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Comments (1)

Levi Speth

nothing better than forcing a vaccine that hasn't even received full FDA approval. also, if we can mandate something for the health of the workforce, where does the line stop? ban smoking? ban soft drinks? require ALL vaccines? pregnancy is dangerous, should we ban pregnancy and force mandatory abortions for our military members? I mean just as the vaccines, abortions are considered "safe".

Nov 16th
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