In this episode of Helion Talks, host Tony Garcia speaks with historian Karen Horn, author of Bold in Battle: South African Stories from the Second World War. Karen shares how her work brings to life the overlooked experiences of South African volunteers who served across Africa and Europe — men and women whose stories have long remained in the margins of military history.

Drawing on personal diaries, letters, and firsthand accounts, Karen discusses the human side of war — from the courage of ordinary soldiers and POWs to the quiet sacrifices of families back home. She also reflects on South Africa’s complex culture of remembrance, the challenges of commemoration, and the importance of preserving these voices for future generations.

Helion Talks releases new episodes once a month, featuring authors and historians from around the world.

Links:

Bold in Battle: South African Stories from the Second World War

Karen Horn on Instagram

Helion & Co: https://www.helion.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helionbooks/

X: https://x.com/Helionbooks

Produced and hosted for Helion & Co by UGS — https://undergroundstrategy.com

Music: ‘Legionnaire’ by Scott Buckley — released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

In this episode of Helion Talks, host Tony Garcia speaks with historian and author Michael Fredholm von Essen about his new two-volume series Whiskey on the Rocks — an in-depth exploration of a tense Cold War standoff between the Soviet Union and Sweden.

Michael recounts the extraordinary events of October 1981, when a Soviet Whiskey-class submarine ran aground near a major Swedish naval base, sparking a ten-day diplomatic and military crisis. He explains how misunderstandings, high-stakes decisions, and Cold War paranoia shaped the incident — and how newly declassified documents reveal what really happened beneath the surface.

The conversation also looks ahead to his sequel volume, which follows the continuing confrontation and near-miss moments that could have drawn both sides into open conflict. Helion Talks releases new episodes once a month, featuring discussions with leading military historians and authors.

Links:

Whiskey on the Rocks Vol. 1 – A Soviet Submarine Stranded in Swedish Waters (1981)

Whiskey on the Rocks Vol. 2 – The Swedish–Soviet Confrontation (1981)

Helion & Co: https://www.helion.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helionbooks/

X: https://x.com/Helionbooks

Produced and hosted for Helion & Co by UGS — https://undergroundstrategy.com

Music: ‘Legionnaire’ by Scott Buckley — released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

In this episode, we turn our focus to one of the most iconic campaigns of the Second World War—the battle for North Africa. From the strategic significance of the Suez Canal and Middle Eastern oil to the rise and fall of Rommel’s legend, the North African campaign shaped the course of the global conflict in unexpected ways.

We’re joined by Lt. Col. Dr. Jean-Pierre Scherman of the South African National Defence Force—a combat officer, scholar, and friend of the podcast—to walk us through what made the desert war so pivotal. We explore the mobile chaos of the early clashes, the critical role of supply lines, and the unsung story of South Africa’s volunteer soldiers who served far from home.

We also dive into the bitter legacy of the surrender at Tobruk, the mythmaking around commanders like Rommel and Montgomery, and what it all looked like from the ground level.

Expect serious analysis, hard questions, and some reflections on today’s conflicts too.

Jean-Pierre Scherman’s contacts

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/schermanjeanpierre/

X – https://x.com/schermanjp74

LinkedIn – https://za.linkedin.com/in/jean-pierre-scherman

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In Part 2 of our conversation with Serhii Velychanskyi, we shift from combat to recovery—exploring how war leaves marks that can’t be seen from the outside, and how humor can help heal them.

After serving on the front lines in Irpin and Kharkiv, Serhii transitioned into Ukraine’s Center for Morale and Psychological Support, where he began using improvisational theater as a recovery tool. He walks us through his program “Improv 450,” designed to help wounded and traumatized soldiers decompress, reconnect, and rebuild.

But this is more than a therapy story. Serhii reflects on identity, language, Russian disinformation, and the existential nature of this war.

We also hear about his upcoming leadership work, his book Path to Effectiveness (Ukrainian only), and what it means to fight and heal at the same time.

Serhii’s Work

Improv 4.5.0 – https://improv450.com.ua/en

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/sergey_velichanskiy

LinkedIn – https://ua.linkedin.com/in/velichansky

Path to Effectiveness (Ukrainian only) – https://www.skyhorse.ua/product/shlyahy-efektyvnosti/

Also Mentioned

Management in Times of War by Kostiantyn Koshelenko – https://amzn.to/43gNmlW

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In Part 1 of our conversation with Serhii Velychanskyi, we follow his journey from civilian to frontline soldier in Ukraine’s 130th Territorial Defense Battalion—where he took part in the defense of Kyiv and the liberation of Irpin and Kharkiv.

Serhii walks us through those early days of the full-scale Russian invasion: the uncertainty, the shelling, and the harsh lessons learned on the ground. But this isn’t just a war story—it’s also about adaptation. Serhii shares how his past life as an improv performer unexpectedly shaped his resilience under fire, and how that mindset helped him—and others—navigate the chaos of combat.

Part 2 continues the story as Serhii transitions into psychological support work, helping soldiers heal through humor, storytelling, and group recovery.

Serhii’s Work

Improv 4.5.0 – https://improv450.com.ua/en

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/sergey_velichanskiy

LinkedIn – https://ua.linkedin.com/in/velichansky

Path to Effectiveness (Ukrainian only) – https://www.skyhorse.ua/product/shlyahy-efektyvnosti/

Also Mentioned

Management in Times of War by Kostiantyn Koshelenko – https://amzn.to/43gNmlW

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The third part of our Fortress Britain series takes us north, where Gordon Barclay joins us for a deep dive into Scotland’s defense plans during the Second World War—and how they’ve been misunderstood ever since.

We talk about stop lines, airfield vulnerabilities, pillbox design, and the sheer logistical push it took to prepare the country for invasion. Gordon breaks down how anti-tank ditches, coastal artillery, and naval fortresses fit into a larger strategy—one that included Polish and Norwegian forces defending the Scottish coast. We also look at how these defenses evolved, what still survives today, and how some of it is only just being re-discovered.

Toward the end, we discuss how Gordon’s research was misrepresented during Scotland’s independence debate, and why wartime history—when twisted—can still fuel modern mythmaking.

Gordon’s work

If Hitler Comes: Preparing for Invasion – Scotland 1940 by Gordon Barclay – https://amzn.to/4kvhT6B

Other books mentioned

Fortress Britain: 1940 by Andrew Chatterton – https://amzn.to/3Sd5iJ4

Britain’s Secret Defences by Andrew Chatterton – https://amzn.to/4jYuT4x

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In this episode, we explore the Zimbabwean liberation struggle—a war that redefined Southern Africa and left lasting political and military scars across the region.

Takawira Chatambudza joins us to unpack the origins of the nationalist movements, the split between ZANU and ZAPU, and how their armed wings—ZANLA and ZIPRA—fought on different fronts with different doctrines. We talk about guerrilla tactics, ideological influence from China and the Soviet Union, and how newly independent frontline states like Mozambique and Angola changed the course of the war.

Taka also offers a grounded, firsthand view of Rhodesian counterinsurgency tactics, including the controversial role of the Selous Scouts and their deep infiltration operations, and we revisit pivotal moments like the Lancaster House Agreement, ZIPRA’s cross-border raids, and the collapse of internal unity efforts like ZIPA.

This episode brings together politics, warfare, and memory from a perspective rarely heard in Western military history circles.

Takawira’s work

Multidisciplinary Perspectives on Zimbabwe’s Liberation Struggle (Edited) – https://amzn.to/3H3f3XT

Want more?

For Better Or Worse? Women And ZANLA In Zimbabwe's Liberation Struggle – https://amzn.to/43gKeXe

The Army and Politics in Zimbabwe – https://amzn.to/43kG1St

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The second part of our Fortress Britain series takes us to the windswept beaches of northeast Scotland, where archeology meets military history.

Tony and Alessandro link up with Bruce Mann—a senior Historic Environment Officer and real-world battlefield archaeologist—to walk through pillboxes, anti-tank blocks, and the overlooked coastal defenses that still dot the landscape today. We talk about how terrain shaped defense planning, how local contractors helped construct pillboxes under pressure, and why Black Dog Beach isn’t just a poetic name.

We also explore how defensive structures were camouflaged, improvised, and in some cases, repurposed entirely—and how the layering of stop lines and river crossings built a real strategy behind the concrete. From hidden gun loops to pillboxes disguised as cottages, this is the physical side of Britain’s invasion defense as few have seen it.

Bruce’s contact

Historic Environment Team – archeology@aberdeenshire.gov.uk

Books mentioned

Fortress Britain: 1940 by Andrew Chatterton – https://amzn.to/3Sd5iJ4

Britain’s Secret Defences by Andrew Chatterton – https://amzn.to/4jYuT4x

If Hitler Comes: Preparing for Invasion: Scotland 1940 by Gordon Barclay - https://amzn.to/4kvhT6B

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In the first of our Fortress Britain episodes, we step back from the secret guerrilla units and look at the bigger picture—how ready was the UK, really, to stop a German invasion in 1940?

Andrew Chatterton returns to break down Britain’s physical defenses—from the rapid construction of stop lines and pillboxes to the strategic thinking behind them. We talk about how much of the country was actually covered, why mobility was so limited, and how even a random brick hut on the coast fits into a much larger defense plan. It wasn’t just Home Guard with pitchforks—there was real doctrine, structure, and urgency.

We also look at the overlooked air and naval elements: radar, decoy airfields, and the sheer power of the Royal Navy—along with the PR, panic, and practical improvisation that shaped the public's view of the war.

Andrew’s work

Fortress Britain: 1940 – https://amzn.to/3Sd5iJ4

Britain’s Secret Defences – https://amzn.to/4jYuT4x

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/historicalandrew

X – https://x.com/Chats1

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In this episode, we’re joined by Roman Kuzyuk, First Deputy CEO of Viysktorgservice and co-author of Management in Times of War. Roman brings a unique mix of experience to the table—from corporate governance and martial arts to frontline logistics within Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense.

We explore the transformation of Ukraine’s defense sector, the challenges of legacy systems, and the ongoing fight to establish integrity and effectiveness within state institutions. Roman speaks openly about veterans' futures, the limits of reform, and the deeper personal mission that drives him through war and bureaucracy alike.

We also dive into his fiction writing, why he chose a detective novel to explain real-world corporate dysfunction, and how martial arts shaped his view on leadership, balance, and power.

This isn’t theory—it’s real-world warfighting, organizational struggle, and national survival, told by someone living it every day.

Books by Roman Kuzyuk

Management in Times of War (English) – https://amzn.to/44SdXbx

Ledarskap i krigstider (Swedish edition) – https://www.bokus.com/bok/9789177415527/ledarskap-i-krigstider-erfarenheter-fran-krigets-ukraina/

Connect with Roman Kuzyuk

LinkedIn – https://ua.linkedin.com/in/roman-kuzyuk

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/roman.kuzyuk.2025/

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We’ve covered the Radleys, Rooseboom, and the Felix network—but in this final episode, the focus flips.

What did the South African and British services actually know about these Nazi spy efforts? And more importantly—how did they respond?

Evert Kleynhans takes us inside the counterintelligence war: the Royal Navy’s Y service, MI5, and the South African Postmaster General all played a role in intercepting transmissions, triangulating hidden radios, and watching the Ossewabrandwag from the inside. They were reading the messages. They had the direction-finding gear. And they still couldn’t shut it down.

We get into why—factionalism, political hesitation, and sabotage from within. And we follow the trail beyond the war, all the way to the abandoned treason cases, buried archives, and the intelligence files that were meant to be erased.

The spy rings may have fizzled, but the fallout never really ended.

Evert’s work

Hitler’s South African Spies by Evert Kleynhans – https://amzn.to/43u79jp

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In the second half of our series, we turn to the aftermath—Franco’s victory, the cost of silence, and the contested memory that still divides Spain.

Séan Scullion returns to chart Franco’s rise from the margins to dictator. We look at how he consolidated power, erased opposition through systematic terror, and survived long enough to become a Cold War ally. From forced exiles and mass graves to American base deals and a Vatican-blessed crusade, this episode unpacks how Franco shaped Spain’s future—and why it remains unresolved today.

We also talk about Séan’s book Españoles contra el nazismo, which is the Spanish translation of his earlier release Churchill’s Spaniards, and how the expanded edition reflects new discoveries and family stories that emerged after publication.

Séan’s work

Españoles contra el nazismo (Spanish edition of Churchill’s Spaniards, out June 4) – https://amzn.to/3ROJXFI

Churchill’s Spaniards – https://amzn.to/4j2bsqA

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/sean.scullion/

X – https://x.com/sean_f_scullion

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In this inaugural episode of Helion Talks, host Tony Garcia sits down with Helion & Company founder and CEO Duncan Rogers to explore the origins of one of the world’s leading military history publishers. Duncan shares how his lifelong passion for military history evolved into the founding of Helion in 1996, and how that passion continues to drive the company today.

They discuss the evolution of Helion’s hallmark series — from Century of the Soldier to At War — and how these collections have built a global readership across eras and regions. Duncan also talks about Helion’s commitment to giving voice to overlooked stories, from South Africa to Sweden, and fostering international collaboration through partnerships like the new Underground Strategy series.

Helion Talks will release new episodes once a month, featuring conversations with authors and historians from around the world.

Links:

Helion & Co: https://www.helion.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helionbooks/

X: https://x.com/Helionbooks

Produced and hosted for Helion & Co by UGS — https://undergroundstrategy.com

Music: ‘Legionnaire’ by Scott Buckley — released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

In this first of a two-part series, we unpack the political collapse and brutal realities behind one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century—the Spanish Civil War.

Séan Scullion joins us to trace the long arc leading to war: empire in decline, broken reforms, class fractures, and military coups recycled from the 19th century. From the fall of the monarchy to the Popular Front’s last stand, we walk through the key players, failed power grabs, and shifting momentum between Republican and Nationalist forces between 1936 and 1939.

We also get into Franco’s rapid rise, foreign intervention, and why Madrid never quite fell—even when the war was lost.

Part one ends just before the reckoning. In part two, we turn to Franco’s legacy and how Spain still wrestles with its memory.

Séan’s work

Españoles contra el nazismo (June 4 release) – https://amzn.to/3ROJXFI

Churchill’s Spaniards – https://amzn.to/4j2bsqA

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/sean.scullion/

X – https://x.com/sean_f_scullion

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Last episode, we met Rooseboom and the Radleys—Germany’s early spy recruits in South Africa, whose operations leaned more chaotic than covert.

This time, the spotlight’s on a man with a much better spy name: Felix. Real name—Lothar Sittig. The one the British couldn’t quite pin down. After escaping internment, he linked up with the Trompke network in Mozambique and was smuggled back into South Africa to help build a direct radio line to Berlin.

Evert Kleynhans walks us through how the Ossewabrandwag backed the effort, how the transmitter was built using stolen medical gear, and why British intelligence already knew what was coming. We also get into the kind of intelligence they passed along—some of it credible, some of it questionable, and some of it just… potatoes.

Part two of a three-part series on Nazi espionage in South Africa.

Evert’s work

Hitler’s South African Spies by Evert Kleynhans – https://amzn.to/43u79jp

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We're back with Ben Zweibelson for part two of our deep dive into Reconceptualizing War. This episode goes even further into the deep end: war paradigms, doomsday ideologies, radical structuralism, and the philosophical divide between Ukraine vs Russia and Israel vs Hamas.

Ben lays out why some conflicts can't be understood through the same lens. We get into social paradigms, interpretivism, and how even Clausewitz is being bent to fit frames he never intended. From AI to Marxist theory, this is war philosophy at its most dangerous and thought-provoking.

We also ask the important stuff: which war theorist would Ben grab a drink with? And what does strategic success actually mean in a world of flawed assumptions?

If part one cracked the surface, this one digs through the foundations. It might leave you with more questions than answers—and that’s the point.

Ben's Work

Reconceptualizing War – https://amzn.to/4jFUZZY

Twitter - https://x.com/BZweibelson

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What if the problem isn’t that we misunderstand war—but that the frameworks we use to understand it are broken?

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Zweibelson—veteran, theorist, and design troublemaker—for a deep dive into his massive new book Reconceptualizing War. This isn’t about doctrine tweaks or buzzword bingo. Ben takes a sledgehammer to the foundations, arguing that modern military thinking is stuck in rigid, outdated paradigms that can’t explain how war really works.

We talk about how childhood art projects shaped his career, why veterans struggle with identity, and what happens when you tell your boss in Kabul that their beloved center of gravity is nonsense. From Clausewitz to Sun Tzu, Marx to Mao, Ben tears into war theory with philosophical tools most strategists are too scared to touch.

This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation. If you're tired of the same recycled thinking, you’ll want to hear this.

Ben’s Work

Reconceptualizing War – https://amzn.to/4jFUZZY

Twitter - https://x.com/BZweibelson

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In this episode, we focus on Hans Rooseboom and the Radley couple—three key figures in the early days of German espionage efforts in South Africa during the Second World War. From smuggling messages across borders to setting up radio links, their stories are strange, chaotic, and often reckless.

Historian Evert Kleynhans returns to break down how Rooseboom ended up running a rogue spy ring out of Johannesburg, how the Radleys got pulled into German intelligence from a radio station job in Berlin, and why none of it went according to plan.

Part one of a three-part series on Nazi espionage in South Africa.

Evert´s work

Hitler’s South African Spies by Evert Kleynhans – https://amzn.to/43u79jp

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We’re back with military historian Jack Bowsher for part two of our deep-dive into the Burma campaign. If you haven’t listened to part one yet, start there.

In this episode, Jack walks us through the final stages of the campaign and gives us a preview of his upcoming book Thunder Run, focused on the dramatic Allied push through Meiktila in 1945. We talk about jungle logistics, Japanese tactics, forgotten battles, and why Burma remains one of the least understood fronts of the Second World War.

We also unpack the significance of multicultural forces, the evolution of Indian armoured regiments, and how post-war memory continues to shape the story of this campaign.

Jack’s work

Forgotten Armour: Tank Warfare in Burma – https://amzn.to/4ctduyd

Thunder Run (pre-order) – https://www.chiselbury.co.uk/coming-soon/p/thunder-run-meiktila-1945-by-jack-bowsher

A War of Empires by Rob Lyman - https://amzn.to/3GgPfap

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/historybowsh/

The Forgotten War Podcast: Burma Campaign WW2 - https://shows.acast.com/the-forgotten-war-pod

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We’re heading deep into the jungles of Southeast Asia to unpack one of the most overlooked and misunderstood campaigns of the Second World War—the Burma campaign. In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, military historian and author Jack Bowsher joins Max and Tony to break down the brutal terrain, Japanese tactics, and the challenges faced by the multinational Allied forces in Burma.

We explore the strategic importance of Burma to the Allied war effort, the jungle’s deadly environment, and why tanks—despite everything you might assume—played a critical role in the campaign’s outcome. Jack also explains how the British and Indian armies functioned as distinct yet overlapping forces, and why the Japanese military was both fanatically aggressive and operationally effective—until they weren’t.

This is a masterclass in the forgotten mechanics of jungle warfare, full of rich detail, wild stories, and some very human lessons from the world’s most unforgiving terrain.

Jack Bowsher’s Work

Forgotten Armour: Tank Warfare in Burma – https://amzn.to/4ctduyd

Thunder Run (pre-order) – https://www.chiselbury.co.uk/coming-soon/p/thunder-run-meiktila-1945-by-jack-bowsher

A War of Empires by Rob Lyman - https://amzn.to/3GgPfap

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/historybowsh/

The Forgotten War Podcast: Burma Campaign WW2 - https://shows.acast.com/the-forgotten-war-pod

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This week on Underground Strategy, we’re joined by historian and author Jacqueline Reiter to explore the extraordinary life of Sir Home Riggs Popham, the naval officer at the heart of her book Quicksilver Captain.

From Buenos Aires to the Cape of Good Hope, Popham was everywhere—and often where he shouldn’t have been. We unpack his role in British high strategy during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, his infamous court-martial, his impact on naval signaling, and his talent for navigating both military disaster and political opportunity.

Was he a maverick, a genius, or a fraud? Jacqueline digs into the archival trail and explains how Popham remains one of the most complex (and oddly useful) figures of the period.

Quicksilver Captain by Jacqueline Reiter - https://amzn.to/4hSFw78

Jacqueline Reiter on LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/jacqueline-reiter-b30a1693

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This episode is part of a special collaboration with Durham University’s School of Government and International Affairs. This student-led episode was created as part of the postgraduate module “Contemporary Challenges of United Nations Peacekeeping (SGIA48815)” for the Class of 2025.

In Part 2, we’re joined by veteran UN official and former Assistant Secretary-General Peter de Clercq, who shares deep insights into the evolution of peacekeeping, regional coalitions, accountability, intelligence, and reform. Drawing from decades of experience in Haiti, Somalia, and the DRC, Peter offers a masterclass in the current and future challenges facing peacekeeping operations.

Durham SGIA X - https://x.com/durham_sgia

Durham Module Handbook - https://apps.dur.ac.uk/faculty.handbook/2022/PG/module/SGIA48815

Recommended Reading

Does Peacekeeping Work? by Virginia Page Fortna – https://amzn.to/3XK5CCl

Understanding Peacekeeping by Paul D. Williams – https://amzn.to/4iV0SlS

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Military historian and author Peter Caddick-Adams joins Underground Strategy for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, legacy, and the life of Winston Churchill.

We explore Churchill’s wartime decisions, his eccentric personality, his genius for messaging, and the long arc of a career that spanned cavalry charges to the nuclear age. Peter also shares firsthand insights from his time as a NATO historian and discusses how battlefield experience, archival research, and media strategy all shaped Churchill’s story—and continue to influence how we study and remember war.

This episode covers everything from Churchill’s infamous boiler suit to his complex relationship with Roosevelt, his financial struggles, and whether Volodymyr Zelensky truly deserves the label of a “modern Churchill.”

Peter Caddick-Adams’ Work

X (Twitter) – https://x.com/militaryhistori

Winston Churchill: The Prime Ministers Series – https://amzn.to/43v15r1

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A small state, big pressures—Botswana built its army late and cautiously.

In this season finale, we sit down with Bafumiki Mocheregwa, a historian and academic at the University of Southern Mississippi who studies the Botswana Defense Force (BDF) and Southern African military history.

The conversation explores how Botswana built its armed forces late—only in 1977—after relying for years on the Police Mobile Unit. We cover how the BDF grew under financial and political constraints, its complicated role during the Rhodesian Bush War and apartheid, and its later peacekeeping deployments to Somalia, Mozambique, and Lesotho.

This isn’t a neat story. It’s a patchwork of half-forgotten history, regional pressures, and unanswered questions about how a small, cautious state tried to manage the chaos around it.

Recommended Reading

The BDF in the Struggle for an African Environment - https://amzn.to/3IAvkor

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In collaboration with Durham University, this special student-led episode explores contemporary challenges of United Nations peacekeeping. Recorded as part of the postgraduate module “Contemporary Challenges of United Nations Peacekeeping (SGIA48815)” at Durham’s School of Government and International Affairs, the conversation brings together real-world experience and academic insight.

Max and Tony reflect on their deployments and contrast national military structures with multinational peacekeeping efforts. From the role of special forces and intelligence sharing to the challenges of building military culture in complex operations, this episode examines what happens when mandates, strategy, and ground realities don’t always align.

With contributions from Durham’s Class of 2025, this discussion sets the stage for Part 2—featuring former UN diplomat Peter de Clercq.

Durham SGIA X: https://x.com/durham_sgia

Module Handbook: https://apps.dur.ac.uk/faculty.handbook/2022/PG/module/SGIA48815

Recommended Reading if you want to dig deeper

Does Peacekeeping Work? by Virginia Page Fortna – https://amzn.to/3XK5CCl

Understanding Peacekeeping by Paul D. Williams – https://amzn.to/4iV0SlS

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In this episode, Tony is catching up with Kostiantyn Koshelenko on the latest developments in Ukraine, updates on his books and ongoing work, and his personal experiences during the war.

Kostiantyn Koshelenko’s Work

Management in Times of War – https://amzn.to/4kF6rpY

LinkedIn – https://linkedin.com/in/koshelenko

Instagram – https://instagram.com/k_koshelenko/

X (Twitter) – https://x.com/k_koshelenko

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In this episode, military historian John C. McManus joins Underground Strategy to discuss his latest book, Alamo in the Ardennes, and the brutal early fighting during the Battle of the Bulge.

We focus on the often-overlooked role of the 110th Infantry Regiment, whose desperate stand helped delay the German advance toward Bastogne before the arrival of the 101st Airborne. From the shattered remnants of the 28th Infantry Division to the chaos on the ground in Clervaux, John takes us through the battle day by day, including the leadership of Colonel Hurley Fuller and the tragic consequences of being ordered to "hold at all costs."

This is a deep and moving account of courage, sacrifice, and how history sometimes forgets the most critical players.

John C. McManus’ Work

Alamo in the Ardennes – https://amzn.to/4irXHBX

Contact John - https://bsky.app/profile/johncmcmanus.bsky.social

More from Underground Strategy

Discover Number 788 – https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Join the mission – https://undergroundstrategy.com

Few people think of South Africa when discussing World War II at sea, but its waters played a crucial role in the global conflict. Historian Evert Kleynhans returns to Underground Strategy to uncover the forgotten story of submarine warfare, coastal defenses, and strategic shipping routes off South Africa’s coast.

We explore how German U-boats and Axis surface raiders operated in the region, why the Cape of Good Hope was so strategically important, and how South Africa’s naval defenses evolved to meet the threat.

From signals intelligence and convoy protection to the successes and failures of anti-submarine warfare, this episode sheds light on a rarely discussed front of World War II.

Evert also shares insights from his book on South Africa’s naval war, the challenges of researching this overlooked history, and why these lessons still matter today.

Evert Kleynhans’ Work

The Naval War in South African Waters - https://amzn.to/3DuZJ50

Hitler’s South African Spies - https://amzn.to/43u79jp

The Second World War in East Africa - https://amzn.to/41zapre

20 Battles: Searching for a South African Way of War - https://amzn.to/4iwE4rW

Navigating the New Terrain of Military Operations (Pre Order) - https://amzn.to/3DgrrT7

The Handbook of African Defence and Armed Forces (Pre Order) - https://amzn.to/4ivILlM

More from Underground Strategy

Discover Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Join the mission - https://undergroundstrategy.com

How does war change, and what shapes its character over time? Historian and educator Will Gordon joins Underground Strategy to discuss the changing character of war, focusing on the period from 1792 to 1945.

Through the lens of his teaching, Will explores how factors like leadership, doctrine, industrialization, and alliances influenced warfare, and why different conflicts required different approaches. Rather than a straight historical timeline, this conversation examines the themes and shifts that defined military conflict in this era.

We also touch on conscription, national identity, and how military education shapes perspectives on war today, making connections between past and present conflicts.

UGS Recommended reads on the topic

The New Rules of War by Sean McFate - https://amzn.to/3QIl3a3

The Changing Character of War (ed. Hew Strachan) - https://amzn.to/3QJ5tLy

More from Underground Strategy

Discover Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Join the mission - https://undergroundstrategy.com

What makes soldiers fight—and what makes them stop? Historian, tour guide, and podcaster Tom Thorpe joins Underground Strategy to break down combat morale, motivation, and the will to fight.

We discuss the psychology of combat, small-unit cohesion, leadership, and how motivation shifts across different wars and cultures. From the trenches of World War I to modern warfare, we explore how morale shapes battlefield outcomes—and why it sometimes leads to collapse.

Tom also shares insights from his research on the London Regiment, upcoming books, and what history can teach us about the realities of motivation in war.

Good reads on the subject

On Killing - Lt. Col. Dave Grossman - https://amzn.to/4h8nIEI

Will to Fight - Ben Connable - https://amzn.to/3QIXkGJ

Combat and Morale in the North African Campaign - Jonathan Fennell - https://amzn.to/3XmLINC

The Unforgiving Minute - Craig Mullaney - https://amzn.to/4i3PgMR

Men Against Fire - S.L.A. Marshall - https://amzn.to/3DcwKCX

Tom Thorpe’s Work

Combat Morale Podcast- https://combatmoralepod.com/

Episode 25 with Max Lauker and Tony Garcia - https://open.spotify.com/episode/5ORR55guSbqDg9G1x4Wl4E

The Kensingtons blog - https://kensingtons.org.uk/

Mentioned in Dispatches Podcast Ep 125 with Tony Garcia - https://open.spotify.com/episode/396537t2UVsnoN4dMdmVPc

More from Underground Strategy

Discover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Former Rhodesian Selous Scout Andy Balaam returns to Underground Strategy to break down Operation Long John, one of the most significant cross-border raids into Mozambique during the Bush War.

With ZANLA gaining unrestricted access to Mozambique after the Portuguese withdrawal in 1975, Rhodesian forces had to act fast. Andy shares firsthand insights into the intelligence failures, reconnaissance missions, and high-stakes direct action operations that shaped this mission.

From snatch-and-grab operations to the cancelled plan to hijack a diesel train into Maputo, this episode explores the chaotic planning, brutal realities, and high-risk tactics of Rhodesian counterinsurgency. Andy also discusses his books—Bush War Operator, The Further Operations of a Bush War Operator, and Skuzapo—offering unfiltered accounts of the conflict.

Andy's Work

Bush War Operator - https://amzn.to/4gLOToJ

Further Memoirs of a Bush War Operator - https://amzn.to/3CYQcmo

Skuzapo: The Untold Story - https://amzn.to/430ijfx

More from Underground Strategy

Discover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Historian, journalist, and podcast host Desmond Latham returns to Underground Strategy for a wide-ranging discussion on warfare, history, and modern conflict. While Stalingrad was on the agenda, this episode moves beyond a single battle—covering urban warfare, women in combat, and the evolution of military doctrine.

From the brutal house-to-house fighting at Stalingrad to the parallels with Mariupol and Bakhmut, we explore the grim realities of urban warfare. The conversation also touches on Soviet military leadership, psychological warfare, and how combat shapes soldiers across history.

Desmond previously hosted the Number 788 miniseries, where he led an in-depth discussion on Max’s book Number 788, now available under the Underground Strategy podcast.

Check out Desmond Latham’s work:

Desmond Latham’s Blog: https://desmondlatham.blog/

The Battle of Stalingrad Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7fbukBWd21o7k17V6O4Xzo

Recommended Reading – Stalingrad: The Fateful Siege: 1942-1943 by Antony Beevor: https://amzn.to/40P4Tk1

Discover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Britain’s 6th Airborne Division played a critical role in the success of D-Day and the wider Normandy campaign. Historian and author Andrew Wheale joins the show to unpack how these elite troops were formed, trained, and led into battle. His book, Ham & Jam: 6th Airborne Division in Normandy - Generating Combat Effectiveness: November 1942 – September 1944, explores the factors that shaped their success, from leadership and doctrine to the high-risk, high-impact airborne drops that defined their operations.

Major General Richard Gale’s command style, the brutal engagements of Operation Tonga and Mallard, and the division’s ability to hold the eastern flank under relentless German counterattacks—these are just some of the elements that made 6th Airborne a force to be reckoned with. From meticulous planning to raw aggression, the lessons from their campaign still resonate in modern military leadership today.

Discover Ham & Jam: 6th Airborne Division in Normandy by Andrew Wheale - https://amzn.to/42JddV8

Join the mission - https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

In Part 2, we continue our hard-hitting conversation with Amos C. Fox, tackling the future of war, the myth of precision strike, and why doctrine often lags behind reality. How do modern militaries adapt—or fail to adapt—to the shifting landscape of conflict? And what lessons should we take forward from past wars into the next fight?

Amos C. Fox, PhD, is a Fellow with Arizona State University's Future Security Initiative and a lecturer in the Department of Political Science at the University of Houston. He hosts Revolution in Military Affairs, Soldier Pulse, and WarCast, serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Military Studies, and is a senior editor at Small Wars Journal. A retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel, Amos brings over two decades of experience to the conversation.

Conflict Realism: Understanding the Causal Logic of Modern War and Warfare:

https://amzn.to/3WxWJeh

Revolution in Military Affairs Podcast:

https://shows.acast.com/revolution-in-military-affairs

Irregular Warfare Initiative:

https://irregularwarfare.org/

Follow Amos Fox:

X: https://x.com/AmosFox6

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amoscfox/

Join the mission:

https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788:

https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

In this episode, we’re joined by John Gordon Sennett, a U.S. Marine veteran, writer, and co-author of Accidental Ukrainians, a personal chronicle of war, survival, and adaptation from inside Ukraine.

John and his wife Natasha Sennett moved to Kiev just before the invasion began. What started as a family decision quickly turned into a frontline life. From volunteering in the early days of war to chronicling daily reality, they’ve written two powerful books that bridge cultures, challenge narratives, and offer something rarely seen—honest, unfiltered civilian-military experience from inside a war zone.

We talk about writing as survival, advocating for POWs, the culture clash between glory-seekers and those who stayed, and how narrative itself can become a tool for recovery.

John also shares an exclusive preview of their third book and a bold new mental health project with Ukrainian universities aimed at helping veterans and civilians process trauma through storytelling.

This is not just another perspective. It’s a voice from the inside—and it matters.

Accidental Ukrainians – Books by John & Natasha Sennett

Part One – https://amzn.to/3H9GrUb

Part Two – https://amzn.to/3ZyJH1J

Connect with John & Natasha Sennett

Medium – https://jgsennett-78059.medium.com/

Substack – https://johngordonsennettsr.substack.com/

LinkedIn – https://ua.linkedin.com/in/john-g-sennett-sr

Project & Updates – https://accidentalukrainians.com/

More from Underground Strategy

Join the mission – https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788 – https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Today, we take a deep look into uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC), and its pivotal role in South African history. Of course, no discussion about MK is complete without exploring the leadership and legacy of Nelson Mandela.

Joining us to break it all down is Professor Thula Simpson, a leading expert on South African history, award-winning author, and researcher who has spent years examining the ANC’s armed struggle.

We dive into how and why MK was formed, the shift from non-violent resistance to armed struggle, Mandela’s radical early years and his strategic role in MK, the evolution of ANC’s military tactics and how they adapted models from global revolutions, the role of key figures like Chris Hani, Joe Slovo, and others in shaping MK’s impact, the internal conflicts within MK and how they affected its trajectory, and the legacy of Mandela and whether his reconciliatory politics were inevitable or strategic.

Thula also sheds light on the rich archival material that has surfaced over the years, providing new insights into the ANC’s military history and the broader liberation struggle.

Books by Thula Simpson:

Umkhonto we Sizwe: The ANC’s Armed Struggle - https://amzn.to/3WnvjrK

The ANC and the Liberation Struggle in South Africa - https://amzn.to/40swKpM

History of South Africa: From 1902 to the Present - https://amzn.to/3PHVPbq

History beyond apartheid: New approaches in South African historiography - https://amzn.to/42nZH9c

The Routledge Companion to Postcolonial African Historiography - https://amzn.to/4g29JzL

This episode is a must-listen for those interested in modern African history, insurgencies, and the political evolution of revolutionary movements.

Join the Mission at https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788 at https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Amos C. Fox joins Underground Strategy to challenge conventional thinking on modern warfare. From maneuver warfare’s shaky foundations to the realities of attrition, we dig into the strategic narratives shaping today’s conflicts. Are we fighting the wars we think we are, or just the ones doctrine tells us to prepare for?

Amos C. Fox, PhD, is a Fellow with Arizona State University's Future Security Initiative and a lecturer in the Department of Political Science at the University of Houston. He hosts Revolution in Military Affairs, Soldier Pulse, and WarCast, serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Military Studies, and is a senior editor at Small Wars Journal. A retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel, Amos brings over two decades of experience to the conversation.

Conflict Realism: Understanding the Causal Logic of Modern War and Warfare:

https://amzn.to/3WxWJeh

Revolution in Military Affairs Podcast:

https://shows.acast.com/revolution-in-military-affairs

Irregular Warfare Initiative:

https://irregularwarfare.org/

Follow Amos Fox:

X: https://x.com/AmosFox6

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amoscfox/

Join the mission:

https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788:

https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

In this second part of our conversation with Andrew Chatterton, we explore the extreme lengths Britain went to in preparing for a German invasion. From hidden resistance networks to the brutal realities of underground warfare, this episode unpacks the operations that never made the history books.

We also discuss the use of women and teenagers in secret roles, the harsh choices these units had to make, and how their actions would have shaped the fight for Britain. Plus, what would have happened if German infiltrators had made it onto British soil? Andrew walks us through a fascinating counterfactual scenario to test how effective these secret groups really were.

Andrew Chatterton’s Books

Britain’s Secret Defences: Civilian Saboteurs, Spies and Assassins during the Second World War - https://amzn.to/3DYyMXd

Fortress Britain 1940: Britain’s Unsung and Secret Defences on Land, Sea and in the Air - https://amzn.to/4hgI2V3

Explore more

StayBehinds research group - www.staybehinds.com

Watch the toilet bunker video - https://youtu.be/iVLsKehOhIM?si=GzGFzVfDKAJTdW2S

Connect with Andrew Chatterton

X - https://twitter.com/Chats1

Instagram - https://instagram.com/historicalandrew

Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/historicalchats.bsky.social

Threads - https://threads.net/@historicalandrew

Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

In this episode of Underground Strategy, we go full cloak and dagger with British auxiliary units, the country’s secret last line of resistance during WWII. Max and Tony are joined by historian Andrew Chatterton, an expert on Britain’s covert civilian forces, to explore the unsung heroes who were prepared to fight from the shadows if the Nazis invaded.

We uncover the origins of these secret units, their training, recruitment, and the ingenious tactics they planned to use against an occupying force. From hidden bunkers and sabotage plans to civilian spies and coded messages in church keys, this episode sheds light on the secret war that never happened—but could have changed history.

Andrew Chatterton’s Books

Britain’s Secret Defences: Civilian Saboteurs, Spies and Assassins during the Second World War - https://amzn.to/3DYyMXd

Fortress Britain 1940: Britain’s Unsung and Secret Defences on Land, Sea and in the Air - https://amzn.to/4hgI2V3

Explore more

StayBehinds research group - www.staybehinds.com

Watch the toilet bunker video - https://youtu.be/iVLsKehOhIM?si=GzGFzVfDKAJTdW2S

Connect with Andrew Chatterton

X - https://twitter.com/Chats1

Instagram - https://instagram.com/historicalandrew

Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/historicalchats.bsky.social

Threads - https://threads.net/@historicalandrew

Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

In this episode, Max and Tony are joined by Robert Davidson, a South African author and battlefield guide, to explore the history and significance of the Spioenkop campaign during the Anglo Boer War.

Robert shares his lifelong passion for military history, recounting how decades of research culminated in his book on the tragic Spioenkop battle. The discussion highlights the strategic missteps, human stories, and the role of groundbreaking battlefield photography that seared the campaign into public consciousness.

The trio also examines the broader context of the Anglo Boer War, including the political tensions, trench warfare, and the personal narratives of those who lived through it. This episode offers a thoughtful exploration of military geography and history, paired with candid reflections and vivid storytelling.

For those curious about the intersection of history and humanity, this masterclass will leave you with much to reflect on.

Links:

Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Robert Davidson’s book - The Spioenkop Campaign: The Battles to Relieve Ladysmith, 17-27 January 1900: https://amzn.to/3E0i5dS

In this episode, Max and Tony dive into the myths and realities of hand-to-hand combat. From Hollywood's dramatizations to the harsh realities of the battlefield, they explore how militaries approach close-quarters combat and its role in modern training and operations.

The discussion touches on the evolution of techniques like Krav Maga, the importance of mental and physical toughness, and how these skills translate to other scenarios like close protection. Max reflects on his own training and real-life experiences, offering candid insights into what really works in the heat of the moment.

Tony shares historical examples, from the brutal trench warfare of WWI to modern contexts like Ukraine, and they debate whether hand-to-hand combat remains relevant in today’s world of long-range weaponry and drones.

Whether you’re a martial arts enthusiast, a student of military history, or just curious about the realities behind the movies, this episode offers a thought-provoking take on the art and utility of close combat.

Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

We’re kicking off 2025 with the second part of our discussion with Seán Scullion, active-duty officer, historian, and author of Churchill’s Spaniards.

This episode dives deeper into the incredible story of Spanish Republicans who joined the British Army during WWII, continuing their fight against fascism across Europe, North Africa, and beyond.

Séan shares powerful accounts of these men’s bravery and resilience, as well as the challenges they faced as soldiers and survivors. We also touch on the cultural and political complexities surrounding their contributions, both during and after the war.

Start the new year by uncovering more about this overlooked chapter of history.

Thank you for joining us as we begin another exciting year of Underground Strategy.

Churchill’s Spaniards is available now, published by Helion & Co. Get your copy on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3ZSDRaV

Follow Séan on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sean.scullion/

Séan´s Reading list:

-Churchill and Spain: The Survival of the Franco Regime, 1940-1945 - https://amzn.to/4iTD1mY

-Octubre 1934 - https://amzn.to/41OFJnJ

Discover Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Follow us for updates and more content:

Underground Strategy - https://undergroundstrategy.com

Max Lauker on Instagram - https://instagram.com/maxlauker

Underground Strategy on Instagram - https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy

In the final Underground Strategy episode of the year, Max Lauker and Tony Garcia are joined by Séan Scullion—active-duty officer, historian, and author of Churchill’s Spaniards.

Séan shares the remarkable story of Spanish Republicans who, after fighting in the Spanish Civil War, joined the British Army during WWII. These men, fighting for freedom and survival, served in the Pioneer Corps, SAS, and other units across Europe, North Africa, and beyond.

We explore their resilience, bravery, and the challenges they faced as soldiers and survivors. Séan also talks about the eight-year journey that went into writing this book and his connections with the families of these forgotten heroes.

This is part one of a two-part series that highlights an extraordinary but overlooked chapter of WWII history.

Churchill’s Spaniards is available now, published by Helion & Co. Get your copy on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3ZSDRaV

Séan´s Reading list:

-Churchill and Spain: The Survival of the Franco Regime, 1940-1945 - https://amzn.to/4iTD1mY

-Octubre 1934 - https://amzn.to/41OFJnJ

Thank you for an incredible year! Stay safe, stay frosty, and we’ll see you in 2025!

Discover Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Follow us for updates and more content

Underground Strategy Website - https://undergroundstrategy.com

Max Lauker on Instagram - https://instagram.com/maxlauker

Underground Strategy on Instagram - https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy

In this edition of Underground Strategy, Max and Tony bring a festive yet poignant twist to the podcast as they explore the traditions, letters, and unique experiences of military personnel during Christmas. From historical moments like the 1914 Christmas Truce to personal reflections from their own deployments, this episode delves into the resilience and camaraderie that emerge in the most challenging circumstances.

Max shares stories of cozy family Christmases alongside recollections of Swedish coffee and festive trimmings on deployments. Tony recounts a warm South African Christmas with deminers, while reflecting on the mix of celebration and loss often faced by those in active duty. They also touch on the famous 1941 Christmas address by Winston Churchill and letters from soldiers in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and even World War II.

This episode pays tribute to service members who find ways to honor the season, no matter where they are stationed, while reminding us of the sacrifices made by those serving during the holidays.

Wishing all listeners a Merry Christmas, whether you're celebrating at home or far away.

Discover Max’s book co-authored by Tony, Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Follow us for updates and more content: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Max Lauker on Instagram: https://instagram.com/maxlauker

Underground Strategy on Instagram: https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy

In this episode, recorded just days before Christmas, Max Lauker and Tony Garcia bring a relaxed yet reflective tone to the Underground Strategy podcast. From holiday traditions to the deep connections between military service, ceremonial duties, and global conflict, this conversation covers a lot of ground.

The episode begins with Max and Tony sharing Christmas traditions—from Swedish celebrations on the 24th to Scottish winter mornings with blazers and cookies for Santa. But the discussion soon transitions into a thoughtful exploration of ceremonial guard duties, their significance, and the cultural differences in how military traditions are honored.

Drawing from personal experiences, Max recalls guarding Stockholm’s Royal Castle during a snowy Christmas and reflects on how ceremonial roles contribute to both public engagement and unit cohesion. The conversation expands to military traditions worldwide, from Swiss Guards to riot drills and even the grandiose parades of more autocratic states.

Max and Tony also explore how societies view and respect their armed forces, particularly during times of war and peace. Max shares his nuanced perspective on the balance between honoring military service and ensuring the ultimate objective remains peace—a timely reminder as the holidays approach.

Discover Max’s book, Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Follow us for updates and more content

Max Lauker on Instagram: https://instagram.com/maxlauker

Underground Strategy on Instagram: https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy

In this episode, we’re joined again by Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Jean-Pierre Scherman of the South African National Defence Force—a returning guest with deep operational experience and a sharp eye for military history. This time, we turn to Operation Boleas: the 1998 intervention in Lesotho that tested the SANDF just four years after its formation.

We get into the real story behind the headlines—why the mission was launched, how it rapidly escalated, and what it exposed about South Africa’s new defense force. From unexpected combat to political constraints and mission creep, Boleas became a crash course in regional military operations.

More than two decades later, the mission remains misunderstood. We unpack why it faded from public view—and what its legacy reveals about South Africa’s approach to hard power.

Jean-Pierre Scherman’s links

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/schermanjeanpierre/

X – https://x.com/schermanjp74

LinkedIn – https://za.linkedin.com/in/jean-pierre-scherman

More from Underground Strategy

Join the mission – https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788 – https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

This week on the Underground Strategy Podcast, Max and Tony sit down with Andrew Balaam, a former Selous Scout and veteran of the Rhodesian Bush War.

From Andrew’s early life in Southern Rhodesia to his experiences in the legendary Selous Scouts, this episode goes straight into the realities of pseudo-operations, inter-unit rivalries, and life on the frontlines of a conflict that shaped Southern Africa’s history.

Andy shares unique insights into the tactical and personal challenges of operating behind enemy lines, as well as his thoughts on leadership, resilience, and the nuances of warfare.

Some highlights from the episode:

-Life as a Selous Scout: What made this unit unique, and how pseudo-operations reshaped the battlefield.

-Operation Detachment: The first vehicle-based cross-border raid into Mozambique and its impact on Rhodesian strategy.

-Leadership and Solo Operations: The challenges of operating independently in hostile environments, including Andrew’s unforgettable 57-day mission.

-Historical Reflections: Andrew's candid thoughts on the political and personal aftermath of the Rhodesian conflict and his transition to life post-military.

Andrew also discusses his books, including Bush War Operator and his latest work Skuzapo, which brings to life the stories and perspectives of both black and white Selous Scouts.

Check out Andrew’s books:

Bush War Operator - https://amzn.to/4gLOToJ

Further Memoirs of a Bush War Operator - https://amzn.to/3CYQcmo

Skuzapo: The untold story - https://amzn.to/430ijfx

Check out Max´s biography Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Visit undergroundstrategy.com for additional resources, reviews, and articles or follow us on Instagram.

Max Lauker: https://instagram.com/maxlauker

Underground Strategy: https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy

In this UGS Special Edition, we continue our military legends series by exploring General Louis Botha’s transformative journey from wartime commander to statesman.

In this episode, Max and Tony discuss Botha’s pivotal role in World War I, including his leadership during the Southwest Africa campaign, the challenges of commanding a divided nation, and the moral complexities of fighting alongside the British so soon after the Anglo-Boer War.

They also reach into the dynamics of Botha’s partnership with Jan Smuts—how their unique relationship shaped South Africa’s military and political traditions, and how Botha’s leadership left an enduring mark on the nation.

Let us know if there are other military legends you’d like us to cover in upcoming episodes!

For more on the topic, Tony's book Botha, Smuts and the First World War (available in South African bookstores) provides an in-depth look.

The UK edition, Botha, Smuts and the Great War, is available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3C05lDr

In this week’s episode of Underground Strategy, Max and Tony tackle the evolving dynamics of military recruitment and selection processes, providing a unique perspective shaped by their personal experiences and years of observation. As the holiday season approaches, the duo reflects on the spirit of Christmas creeping into their routines—lights, advent traditions, and thoughts of thoughtful gifts (books, anyone?) make their way into the conversation, adding a lighter touch before diving into the week’s topic.

As global conflicts intensify and armies worldwide face mounting pressure to scale up recruitment, the conversation delves into how modern militaries are adapting their strategies to balance the demand for manpower with the need to maintain operational excellence.

Max reflects on his time in Swedish special operations, sharing insights on the psychological and physical demands of special forces selections, where mental resilience often outweighs brute physical strength. Tony adds his perspective, discussing how military psychological evaluations can sometimes reveal more about a recruit’s potential than their ability to run a perfect 10K or perform dozens of pull-ups. They highlight how soft skills and technical expertise—like cyber warfare capabilities and drone piloting—are increasingly prioritized alongside traditional physical requirements.

The discussion naturally ties into the broader context of modern warfare, with Ukraine serving as a poignant example of how military requirements shift as the need for personnel grows urgent. Max and Tony explore the complex dynamics at play, where outdated perceptions of “fighting fit” clash with the reality that adaptability and specialized skills are just as critical on today’s battlefields.

Interwoven with personal anecdotes, including Max’s experiences with Ranger school and Tony’s insights from South African military selection, the episode paints a vivid picture of the challenges and rewards of navigating military recruitment in an era defined by rapid technological advancement and global instability.

This is a must-listen for anyone curious about the behind-the-scenes realities of building effective and diverse military teams, where the right mindset and technical know-how are as important as physical readiness.

Don't miss out on the part where Max talks about the Spanish legionnaire ceremonial uniform... to be honest Tony digs it and we can see why.

Links:

Number 788 on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Botha, Smuts and the Great War https://amzn.to/3C05lDr

In this UGS Special Edition, we continue our military legends series with a focus on General Louis Botha, a towering figure in South African military history and often likened to America’s George Washington.

In this episode, Max interviews Tony, who shares insights from his co-authored book, Botha, Smuts and the First World War. They explore Botha’s early life, his rise as a commander during the Second Anglo-Boer War, and his strategic genius in defending the Tugela line against British forces. This discussion brings to light Botha’s unique tactical eye, his ability to build loyalty among his troops, and the early guerilla tactics that defined his military approach.

Let us know if there are other military legends you’d like us to cover in upcoming episodes!

For more on the topic, Tony's book Botha, Smuts and the First World War (available in South African bookstores) provides an in-depth look.

The UK edition, Botha, Smuts and the Great War, is available on Amazon. https://amzn.to/3C05lDr