America’s Frontlines

Tom Sheffield

”America’s Frontlines” brings you firsthand perspectives from those shaping the future of national security and defense. From military leaders and system integrators to technologists and field operators, each episode dives into the challenges, innovations, and missions that define America’s defense infrastructure. Whether it’s AI at the tactical edge, supply chain resilience, or frontline decision-making, this podcast delivers powerful stories and actionable insights for defense professionals, policymakers, and citizens who care about the security of our nation.

  1. 4d ago

    America's Frontlines Podcast 08 July 2026

    In this episode of America’s Frontlines: Colonel Denny and Skip ask a question with major national security implications: Could the smartwatch on your wrist be sending your personal health data to Communist China? They examine growing concerns surrounding Chinese-made wearable devices, data privacy, cybersecurity, and America's continued dependence on Chinese technology. They also break down a week of mounting global tension—from fragile U.S.–Iran ceasefire negotiations and the competing narratives surrounding the war in Ukraine, to a controversial ICE arrest in the United States and NATO's eastern members reconsidering nuclear deterrence. Together, these developments illustrate how diplomacy, national security, and public trust are being tested on multiple fronts. As always, Colonel Denny delivers another round of his trademark one-liners to keep us smiling and the conversation in perspective. Our featured guest is Colonel Bill Connors, Chairman of the Advisory Board for STARRS (Stand Together Against Racism and Radicalism in the Services). Bill shares his journey from graduating from The Citadel to serving in the U.S. Army, reflects on his military career, discusses his work after leaving active service, and explains the mission of STARRS and why its work matters to today's armed forces. We also continue our regular journey through military history, remembering the events and sacrifices that helped shape the nation we know and love today. Retired Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Roland Ashby returns with another installment of his popular "Warrant Wisdom." And it's time once again for our Battle of the Month as retired Army Brigadier General Chris Petty joins Colonel Denny to examine the Battle of Chancellorsville—one of the Civil War's most remarkable campaigns, whose lessons in leadership, strategy, and decision-making continue to resonate today.

    1h 13m
  2. Jul 3

    America's Frontlines Podcast 03 July 2026

    In this special America’s Frontlines episode celebrating America’s 250th anniversary: Colonel Denny and Skip reflect on why the United States Declaration of Independence still matters. They explore the enduring principles of liberty, individual rights, and limited government that gave birth to the world's longest-lasting Constitutional Republic—and why every American should understand and preserve those ideals. Colonel Denny also reviews some of the hard-hitting news stories impacting our lives today, offering his perspective on the issues shaping the nation and the world. Our featured guest is retired Admiral Alan Reyes, CEO of Operation Homefront. Admiral Reyes reflects on his distinguished military career and discusses the organization's mission of strengthening military families by providing financial assistance, transitional housing, caregiver support, and other critical resources for those who serve and have served. As always, Colonel Denny delivers a healthy dose of his trademark humor and one-liners to keep our spirits high. In honor of America's 250th anniversary, Marceille Martinez presents a heartfelt reading written by her mother, Delilah Gorby, a schoolteacher from rural Michigan whose deep love of country inspired a message she shared with her students each year. It is a fitting tribute to the values and ideals that have united generations of Americans. And no celebration of our nation's birthday would be complete without our regular look back at military history from this point in time, remembering the events and sacrifices that helped secure the freedoms we continue to cherish today. Join us as we celebrate 250 years of American independence, honor those who have defended it, and reflect on the principles that continue to guide our nation forward.

    46 min
  3. Jul 1

    America's Frontlines Podcast 01 July 2026

    In this episode of America’s Frontlines: Colonel Denny and Skip examine what could become one of President Trump’s most significant domestic policy victories: a sweeping immigration enforcement package that expands funding for ICE, strengthens border security, and intensifies the national debate over immigration and enforcement. They also break down a series of major international developments—from President Trump’s latest trade ultimatum and the Pentagon’s urgent request for additional funding, to Canada’s competition for its next generation of submarines and Ukraine’s emergence of a revolutionary new strike capability. Together, these stories illustrate how economic power and military innovation are increasingly shaping the strategic landscape of the 21st century. As always, Colonel Denny keeps the conversation balanced with another healthy dose of his trademark humor and well-timed one-liners. Our featured guest is retired Air Force Brigadier General John Teichert, better known as "Dragon." He joins Colonel Denny for a thoughtful discussion on leadership, the challenges facing America, and the principles that have guided the nation as it approaches its 250th anniversary. We also continue our tradition of revisiting key moments in military history from this point in time, remembering the events and sacrifices that helped build the nation we celebrate today. Retired Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Roland Ashby returns with another edition of his popular “Warrant Wisdom.” And team member Navy veteran Theresa Robinson introduces us to another inspiring female veteran, sharing her story of military service, leadership, and life in the Navy. Join us for an episode that explores leadership, national security, military innovation, and the enduring values that continue to define America.

    56 min
  4. Jun 26

    America's Frontline Podcast 26 June 2026

    In this episode of America’s Frontlines: Colonel Denny and Skip ask a challenging question: Has the United Nations become part of the problem instead of the solution? They examine allegations surrounding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, including accusations that the agency has enabled Hamas, promoted anti-Israel indoctrination, and received billions of dollars in international funding. They discuss what these claims could mean for U.S. foreign policy and whether American taxpayers should continue supporting the organization. Colonel Denny also reviews some of the hottest news stories affecting our daily lives, offering his perspective on the issues shaping America and the world today. As always, he lightens the mood with another round of his trademark one-liners and humor to keep us smiling. Our featured guest is retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Mel Bauman, who explains the important differences between the U.S. Army Reserve and the Army National Guard. He also shares stories from his military career and discusses the many ways he has supported America's service members and veterans over the decades. And of course, we continue our regular look back at military history from this point in time, remembering the events and sacrifices that helped build the nation we love as America celebrates its 250th anniversary. Join us for an episode that explores international affairs, military service, and the history that continues to shape our nation.

    34 min
  5. Jun 24

    America's Frontlines Podcast 24 June 2026

    In this episode of America’s Frontlines: Colonel Denny and Skip ask whether America’s military has drifted from its core mission. They examine efforts by the Trump administration to eliminate DEI programs, restore merit-based standards, refocus veteran services, and strengthen a military centered on readiness, deterrence, and winning wars. They also explore questions of trust and accountability on multiple fronts—from a fragile Lebanon ceasefire connected to broader U.S.–Iran negotiations, to newly declassified intelligence files fueling debate over global biolabs and pandemic-era decisions, and the extraordinary battlefield heroism of a soldier whose actions may soon earn the nation’s highest military decoration. As always, Colonel Denny lightens the mood with another round of his trademark humor and well-timed one-liners. Our featured guest is former Air Force Captain Caitlin Moran, who shares her experiences in uniform, her transition to becoming an Air Force spouse, and her journey through law school. Her story offers a unique perspective on military service, family life, and professional growth. We also continue our regular look back at military history, revisiting the events, sacrifices, and lessons that helped shape our nation and remain relevant today. Retired Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Roland Ashby returns with another installment of his popular “Warrant Wisdom.” And it’s time once again for our Movie of the Month review as team member Diane Raver from the Garden State Film Festival joins the show to discuss this month’s featured film and why it’s worth watching. Join us for an episode that explores military readiness, national security, leadership, and the people whose service continues to strengthen America.

    1h 2m
  6. Jun 19

    America's Frontliners Podcast 19 June 2026

    In this milestone 100th episode of America’s Frontlines: Colonel Denny and Skip tackle a question with enormous implications for America's future: Has free trade made the United States dangerously dependent on China? They examine the hidden costs of globalization, the decline of American manufacturing, and why tariffs, strategic industries, and greater economic self-sufficiency may be critical to the nation's long-term prosperity and security. Colonel Denny also reviews some of the hottest news stories affecting our daily lives, offering his perspective on the issues shaping America and the world. And, as always, he delivers another round of his trademark humor and one-liners to keep us smiling and in good spirits. Our featured guest is Paul Beran, Executive Chairman of the Veteran Legacy Foundation. Paul joins Colonel Denny to discuss America's Vet*Net and Veteran.Network, an online community dedicated to serving U.S. military veterans, their families, and all who support them. The platform provides information, resources, news, tributes, memorials, donor opportunities, and a place for veterans to reconnect with friends and comrades while preserving the legacy of those who served. And of course, we continue our tradition of revisiting key moments in military history from this point in time—helping us remember the events and sacrifices that shaped the nation we love and continue to defend. Join us for this special 100th episode as we celebrate an important milestone while exploring the issues, people, and history that continue to define America and the values we hold dear.

    39 min
  7. Jun 17

    America's Frontlines Podcast 17 June 2026

    In this episode of America’s Frontlines: Colonel Denny and Skip ask a troubling question: Are we raising a generation that can't read? They examine America's growing literacy crisis, the widening achievement gap, and why the quality of our schools could have profound implications for the future strength of our military, our economy, and our Constitutional Republic. They also take a close look at mounting pressure on Iran—from signs that nuclear negotiations may be reaching a decisive stage and debate over the strategic importance of Kharg Island, to a 22-nation warning against Tehran's overseas intimidation campaigns and renewed efforts to strengthen the southern border and disrupt cartel operations. Together, these developments underscore how deterrence, sovereignty, and security remain central to America's challenges both at home and abroad. As always, Colonel Denny delivers another round of his trademark one-liners to keep things in perspective and lighten the mood. Our featured guest is Dave Huston from Concerned Veterans for America. Dave shares stories from his time in uniform, explains what inspired him to serve, and discusses how he became involved with CVA. He also provides an update on the organization's current priorities and ongoing efforts to advocate for veterans and the nation. As Colonel Denny notes, former CVA leader and current Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth once headed the organization and was a frequent guest on the program. We also continue our regular journey through military history, remembering the events and sacrifices that helped shape our nation as we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Retired Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Roland Ashby returns with another installment of his popular “Warrant Wisdom.” And America's Frontlines team member Gil Maza—a retired Marine and Border Patrol agent—offers his perspective on the challenges facing the country and the importance of maintaining national security in an increasingly complex world. This episode explores the links between education, national security, and civic responsibility—and why preserving America's strength requires attention to challenges both abroad and here at home.

    1h 3m

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About

”America’s Frontlines” brings you firsthand perspectives from those shaping the future of national security and defense. From military leaders and system integrators to technologists and field operators, each episode dives into the challenges, innovations, and missions that define America’s defense infrastructure. Whether it’s AI at the tactical edge, supply chain resilience, or frontline decision-making, this podcast delivers powerful stories and actionable insights for defense professionals, policymakers, and citizens who care about the security of our nation.

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