In this episode of Leader Up, host David Howey welcomes Lieutenant Colonel Nathan Branen, Director of the Center for Army Leadership (CAL). Together, they explore the foundation and future of Army leadership, with a special focus on the essential role of Army civilians in leadership development across the force.

Key discussion points include:

• The history of Army leadership doctrine, including the shift from “leaders are born” to “leaders can be developed.”

• An overview of the Leadership Requirements Model and how attributes and competencies shape effective leaders.

• The vital contributions of Army civilians to leadership, doctrine development, and organizational success.

• How CAL uses science and data to inform leader development and build tools like Leader 360 assessments.

• Practical advice on navigating change, building resilience, and leading ethically in dynamic environments.

Whether you’re a military leader, Army civilian, or anyone committed to personal and organizational growth, this episode delivers actionable insights into leadership, stewardship of the Army profession, and the power of continuous development. Tune in to learn how Army leadership doctrine is evolving to meet the needs of today and tomorrow.

Episode references:

https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/ARN18529-ADP_6-22-000-WEB-1.pdf

https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/ARN40232-ATP_6-22.1-000-WEB-1.pdf

https://civilians.army.mil/

https://usacac.army.mil/Organizations/Centers-of-Excellence-CoE/MCCoE/Center-For-Army-Leadership-CAL/CAL-Leadership

https://usacac.army.mil/Organizations/Centers-of-Excellence-CoE/MCCoE/Center-For-Army-Leadership-CAL/CAL-Leadership

No DOD or U.S. ARMY ENDORSEMENT IMPLIED. Any references to commercially available products or works are used for research and educational purposes only. Mention of any specific commercial products, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the U.S. Army, Department of Defense, or the United States Government. The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Government and shall not be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes. The mention of companies by name is solely for representing educational frameworks and should not be implied as endorsement.

Music: "Carolina" (Intro) & "Fort Scott" (Outro) composed by David Howley.