Podcasts about pgms

Chantal Marx of FNB Wealth and Investments runs us through the day's market developments, Chinese interest rates, resources trading stronger, jewellery demand, Sasol's Capital Markets day, the rand continuing to strengthen, and PGMs. SAfm Market Update - Podcasts and live stream

Sasfin's David Shapiro runs us through the day's market developments, the weaker dollar, US getting a downgrade from Moody's, the rand, continued uncertainty, Sasol, PGMs, and the gold price. SAfm Market Update - Podcasts and live stream

Sidney Resources Corp. is making significant strides at its flagship project in Idaho's historic Warren Mining District, with new metallurgical discoveries expanding the project's scope well beyond gold and silver. Chief Operating Officer Dan Hally joined Steve Darling from Proactive to share recent developments that reinforce the project's strategic and environmental importance. Spanning more than 208 acres of private land and over 4,000 acres of mining claims, the project now includes confirmed deposits of gold, silver, platinum group metals (PGMs), and rare earth elements. Hally revealed that recent technical analysis has uncovered metallurgical complexity attributed to an ancient meteor strike, contributing to the presence of iridium, osmium, platinum, and palladium. “We've now successfully been able to separate the gold, silver, platinum and palladium from these alloyed materials, which is huge,” said Hally. This breakthrough has enabled Sidney Resources to finalize a proprietary six-step extraction process that integrates traditional metallurgical techniques with modern innovations. The company is now preparing to scale up from laboratory testing to commercial production. These new findings elevate the project's strategic relevance to U.S. national security by contributing to the domestic supply of critical minerals needed for advanced technologies, including defense systems, clean energy, and electronics. In parallel with technical advancements, Sidney Resources is prioritizing environmental stewardship and infrastructure development. A new access road, designed to avoid waterways, is under construction and will enable more sustainable site operations. The initiative includes decommissioning legacy routes to reduce silt runoff and protect aquatic ecosystems—a move welcomed by both conservation groups and local tribal communities. Hally emphasized that the project is a rare convergence of resource development, environmental rehabilitation, and national interest. “We're not just mining — we're restoring, protecting, and contributing to critical supply chains,” he said. As Sidney Resources moves closer to commercial processing, the company is poised to become a key player in the supply of high-demand minerals, while serving as a model for environmentally responsible resource development in the American West. #proactiveinvestors #sidneyresourcescorporation #otc #sdrc #RareEarths #CriticalMinerals #GoldMining #PlatinumGroupMetals #MiningInnovation #USMining #IdahoMining #EnvironmentalRemediation #CleanMining #ResourceDevelopment

Compass, episode 13Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/why-smart-money-is-chasing-mining-royalty-companies-7032Recording date: 28th April 2025The investment landscape has settled into a period of relative calm following an eventful first quarter marked by new tariff policies from the Trump administration. Markets currently appear to be in a holding pattern, waiting for the next significant catalyst, according to recent discussions between Samuel Pelaez and Derek Macpherson of Olive Resource Capital.This temporary market lull provides an opportunity for investors to reassess positioning, particularly in the gold sector, which is demonstrating remarkable strength. Q1 reporting reveals impressive performance from leading gold producers, with Agnico Eagle generating $6.7 million in daily free cash flow during Q1 at an average gold price of $2,900. With gold now trading around $3,400, daily free cash flow could potentially exceed $10 million, showcasing the significant operating leverage gold producers have to metal prices.The fundamentals driving gold stocks are increasingly attractive to professional investors. Agnico Eagle posted year-over-year revenue growth of 36% in Q1, outpacing even successful tech companies that typically grow at around 20% annually. Despite this strong performance, valuations remain compelling, with Agnico Eagle estimated to be trading at a free cash flow multiple of 10-15 times.Generalist investors are beginning to take notice, with Newmont ranking as the third-best performing stock in the S&P 500 year-to-date, up approximately 45%. This investment cycle typically begins with generalists purchasing large-cap gold producers, followed by capital flowing to mid-caps, developers, and eventually explorers – a pattern that appears to be in its early to middle stages currently.Several macroeconomic factors continue to support gold, including upcoming debt ceiling negotiations and budget discussions in Congress, which could drive market volatility in the coming months. Additionally, the U.S. dollar, described as "significantly oversold," may experience a temporary rebound that could create short-term volatility in gold prices, potentially offering buying opportunities.Olive Resource Capital maintains approximately 50% of its assets in gold and platinum group metals (PGMs), focusing on highest-conviction names. The company also sees potential in PGMs, which are currently out of favor but face fundamental supply constraints with production dominated by South Africa and Russia.With ongoing fiscal challenges, potential monetary policy adjustments, and geopolitical uncertainties likely to persist through 2025, the fundamental case for gold as both a portfolio diversifier and growth opportunity remains compelling. Investors who can look beyond short-term price movements to focus on quality assets and management teams are well-positioned to benefit from this developing investment cycle.Sign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Don Weatherbee, CEO of REGENX is committed to promoting environmentally responsible practices for recovering and regenerating platinum group metals back into raw materials from end-of-life catalytic converters. What is this process? (PGMs are-Platinum, Rhodium, Palladium, Osmium, Iridium, Ruthenium)

¿Oportunidad en los PGMs? Análisis de metales del grupo del platino + Resultados de HP. En este vídeo Albert analiza a fondo el sector de los PGMs (Platinum Group Metals), un conjunto de metales estratégicos clave para la industria tecnológica y energética. ¿Están infravalorados? ¿Hay oportunidad de inversión en 2025? Además, repasamos los resultados trimestrales con Edgar de HP y su posible impacto en el sector. No olvides suscribirte y activar la campana para no perderte nada. ➡️Apúntate al Research de LWS desde menos de 1,5 € al día https://lwsfinancialresearch.substack.com/ ══════════════ NUEVOS CURSOS ABIERTOS: ➡️ Curso Avanzado de Inversión en Bolsa: https://locosdewallstreet.com/producto/curso-avanzado-inversion-en-bolsa/ ➡️ Curso de Fundamentos y Productos de Renta Fija CON BME: https://locosdewallstreet.com/producto/curso-fundamentos-y-productos-de-renta-fija-3/ ══════════════ ESTRENAMOS CURSO GRATUITO: ➡️ Curso de Introducción a la Inteligencia Artificial: https://locosdewallstreet.com/form-registro-curso-gratis-ia/ Ebook GRATUITO de opciones: https://locosdewallstreet.com/form-descarga-ebook-curso-gratuito-opciones/ ══════════════ ¿TE GUSTARÍA PERTENECER A NUESTRA COMUNIDAD GRATUITA? Discord: https://discord.gg/AY6ybTX3md ══════════════ Í : Síguenos en Twitter: https://x.com/LocosWallStreet https://x.com/lwsresearch https://x.com/EFernandezVidal https://x.com/ahidalgoa SÍGUENOS en: https://linktr.ee/locosdewallstreet (Todos nuestros enlaces en un solo sitio) DISCLAIMER El contenido de este canal de YouTube tiene exclusivamente fines educativos y no constituye asesoramiento financiero ni recomendaciones de inversión. Todos los temas tratados están diseñados para ayudar a los espectadores a entender mejor el mundo de las finanzas, pero las decisiones de inversión deben tomarse de forma personal y bajo la responsabilidad de cada individuo. Invertir en mercados financieros conlleva riesgos significativos debido a su complejidad y volatilidad. Es posible perder parte o la totalidad del capital invertido. Por ello, es fundamental que realices tu propio análisis antes de tomar cualquier decisión y, si lo consideras necesario, consultes con un profesional financiero acreditado. Recomendamos: Contar con un fondo de emergencia equivalente a al menos tres meses de tus gastos básicos antes de invertir. Analizar muy detenidamente y con precisión cualquier inversión. En caso de duda consultes con un asesor financiero certificado por CNMV Mantenerte alejado de promesas de rentabilidades astronómicas, dinero rápido u otros esquemas engañosos. En Locos de Wall Street, nuestra misión es fomentar una educación financiera sólida, ética y accesible para todos, ayudando a nuestros seguidores a tomar decisiones informadas y responsables. #PGMs #Inversión #Bolsa #Metales #HP #ElSanedrín #LocosDeWallStreet #MercadosFinancieros #Tecnología

Interview with Luis Azevedo, Chairman & CEO of Bravo Mining Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/bravo-mining-tsxvbrvo-copper-gold-discovery-in-tier-1-pgm-project-in-brazil-5938Recording date: 4th March 2025Bravo Mining Corp represents an exciting opportunity for investors to gain exposure to the clean energy transition through a world-class platinum group metals (PGM), copper, and gold asset in the heart of Brazil's mining industry. The company's 100%-owned Luanga project, located in the renowned Carajás Mineral Province, has rapidly emerged as one of the largest and highest-grade palladium-platinum deposits globally, with a resource that has tripled to over 15 million ounces in just two years. Even more tantalizing is Luanga's copper-gold potential, with Bravo recently discovering bonanza-grade mineralization reminiscent of the IOCG deposits that built mining giants like Vale and Anglo American.The Luanga project boasts a number of key attributes that enhance its economic and development potential. First and foremost is the sheer scale and grade of the PGM resource. At 15 million ounces and growing, Luanga already ranks among the largest PGM deposits in South America. Importantly, the resource starts right at surface, with 86% of the ounces sitting in the first 250 meters depth. This suggests a low-cost, open-pit operation could be in the offing. Furthermore, with less than 10% of this massive land package systematically explored, Luanga likely has much more to give.While the PGM story alone would merit serious investor attention, the recent copper-gold discovery at Luanga makes Bravo impossible to ignore. Drill results like 11 meters of 14.5% copper and 3 g/t gold would be the envy of any major miner. The exploration model of choice for such mineralization are IOCG deposits, which are responsible for the bulk of Brazil's copper and gold production. These deposits are prized for their large size and polymetallic nature, often hosting economic quantities of copper, gold, silver, PGMs, and rare earths. With a land package of nearly 9,000 hectares, Bravo has an opportunity to consolidate a new copper-gold district in the heart of the Carajás.To advance these exceptional assets, Bravo has assembled a topnotch technical team with an unparalleled track record of discovery and development in Brazil. CEO Luis Azevedo and his colleagues were involved in several major discoveries in the country, giving them keen insights into the local geology and what it takes to operate there. Bravo also enjoys strong support from both the government and local community, a social license that is absolutely critical in today's mining industry. The Brazilian government has thrown its weight behind Luanga, placing it in an accelerated permitting program to bring the critical metals to market as quickly as possible.Lastly, Bravo has the financial strength to deliver on its ambitious plans. With $25 million in the bank, the company is fully funded to expand the PGM resource, advance engineering studies, and aggressively explore the copper-gold discovery. Major shareholders like Blackrock, Tembo, Franklin, and RCF have thrown their support behind management, recognizing the immense value creation potential at Luanga. As the company hits key milestones and proves out the polymetallic nature of the project, investors can look forward to a steady stream of catalysts.As the world electrifies and decarbonizes, metals like palladium, platinum, and copper will become ever more critical. Already, the Brazilian government is taking steps to secure its own supply of these vital elements. For investors, Bravo Mining offers a unique opportunity to participate in this generational megatrend, through an exceptional asset with a world-class team behind it. With drills turning, permits in hand, and a historic bull market for green metals ahead, Bravo has all the ingredients to become a major player in the industry.View Bravo Mining's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/bravo-miningSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Kea Nonyana from Scope Prime discusses PGMs and why there's still no strong buy case, along with his biggest concerns for the year ahead. Cobus Loots, CEO of Pan African Resources, breaks down the latest results, including a drop in gold production and sales, and the conclusion of their hedging agreement. BetterBond's Bradd Bendall shares insights on the noticeable recovery in South Africa's residential property market.

Todo el mundo habla de Palantir, la compañía que más ha subido del SP 500 en 2024. ¿Seguirá subiendo? ¿Ha llegado el momento de invertir en mineras de oro y PGMs? Las mineras de oro se pueden convertir en una oportunidad de invertir en bolsa muy lucrativa ya que su correlación con el oro está en mínimos. Ha presentado resultados una de las principales compañías americanas en bolsa, DISNEY, Edgar nos analiza los resultados. Repasaremos las novedades de la semana en bolsa y terminaremos con el Q&A.

Coniagas Battery Metals CEO Frank Basa joined Steve Darling from Proactive to announce that the company has engaged Laurentia Exploration to design and manage ongoing exploration at its Graal property near Saguenay-Lac St. Jean, Quebec. Basa highlighted the encouraging results from completed drill programs, which confirm the Graal property's potential for hosting significant, thick massive sulfide mineralization containing nickel, copper, cobalt, and platinum group metals (PGMs). The company plans to build on these findings by expanding known zones and exploring new areas along defined mineralized trends. A key focus will be the MHY zone, where TDEM (Time Domain Electromagnetic) surveys revealed a large conductive layer approximately 1.7 km long with a minimum depth of 850 m. The company intends to follow up on this geophysical anomaly and apply similar methods to generate new drill targets between the MHY and Discovery Zones. Basa explained that current models suggest the potential for a large, low-grade orebody with smaller, richer, and thicker lenses along the mineralized trend. This opens the possibility of starting with a low-grade, open-pit operation that could evolve into underground mining of high-grade pockets. Coniagas Battery Metals remains committed to advancing the Graal project as a strategically important asset in the critical battery metals sector, aiming to contribute to the clean energy transition through the sustainable development of nickel, copper, cobalt, and PGMs. #proactiveinvestors #coniagasbetterymetals #tsxv #cos #electricvehicles #cobalt #NickelMining #Cobalt #BatteryMetals #MiningExploration #CriticalMinerals #ElectricVehicles #Investing #GraalProject #ProactiveInvestors

This week's episode features a conversation between Rick Rule and host Adrian Pocobelli, recorded at the International Mining Symposium in London on December 1-2, 2024. During the opening investor breakfast, Rule shared his perspective on why he prefers investing in the resource sector over the S&P 500. He also emphasized the significance of understanding investor psychology in navigating the cyclical nature of mining markets. Additionally, Rule highlighted his interest in undervalued metals stocks, particularly in the nickel, lithium, and PGM sectors. All this and more with host Adrian Pocobelli. Music Credits “Rattlesnake Railroad”, “Big Western Sky”, “Western Adventure” and “Battle on the Western Frontier” by Brett Van Donsel (⁠www.incompetech.com⁠). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License ⁠creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0⁠ Apple Podcasts:⁠ https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-northern-miner-podcast/id1099281201⁠ Spotify:⁠ https://open.spotify.com/show/78lyjMTRlRwZxQwz2fwQ4K⁠ YouTube:⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@NorthernMiner⁠ Soundcloud:⁠ https://soundcloud.com/northern-miner

Investing in Bizarro World Episodes: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIAfIjKxr02sAztzlJNy1ug5bDvTVZkME&si=w2d_EF-B5jMo1dYD Subscribe to Investing In Bizarro World: @bizarroworld Want to know what stocks to buy as we head into the end of the year? That's the bulk of what we cover in this week's episode of Investing in Bizarro World. We start with the Fed's oxymoronical “Hawkish Cut” and the market's subsequent temper tantrum before concluding the party is likely still on for markets and risk assets. Then we look at the current outlook for gold and commodities heading into 2025. You are then given several sectors that are fertile hunting grounds to find oversold stocks before the calendar flips, including cannabis, PGMs, copper, and lithium. And speaking of lithium, one of our biggest wins over the years has been Patriot Battery Metals (TSX: PMET)(OTC: PMETF). Gerardo first got readers into it at 16-cents, delivering 100-bagger returns as it climbed to over $17 on the back of world-class lithium discovery. Patriot got a huge stamp of approval last week with a major investment from Volkswagen, which will use the deposit as the main input for a North American battery supply chain. Kudos to Gerardo and to all of you who were in that stock early with us. The critical metal supply chain is changing and has been a major driver of profits for us over our careers. Just last week we were talking about China banning the export of germanium, gallium, and antimony. And we made money off that, too!We discuss Apple being sued by the Democratic Republic of the Congo over so-called Conflict Minerals. Our next big winners are going to be the very companies presenting a solution to this problem. Become a Foundational Profits member here: https://bit.ly/426FrsDAnd we have an extended discussion on the topic in the 298th episode of Investing in Bizarro World. 0:00 Intro2:29 Jerome Still Getting It Wrong8:26 Will DOGE Succeed or Fail?16:22 Post-Fed Gold & Commodity Outlook22:08 End of Year Buy Ideas: Cannabis, PGMs, Copper, Lithium31:20 iRape & iPillage: Fixing Apple's Conflict Minerals Supply Chain45:36 Crypto's Inflationary AppealVisit our website Daily Profit Cycle for more content like this and more! https://dailyprofitcycle.com/

Doc Jones, private activist resource investor and influencer on Ceo.ca and X/Twitter, joins me for a longer-format conversation on the macroeconomic trends in tech, vehicles, and energy and how they'll benefit the critical minerals companies that have copper, nickel, platinum, and palladium. In addition we review 3 companies where he is heavily positioned in his portfolio, that have had significant newsflow in the recent past towards development of their projects.   We start off getting the key factors that have him bullish on Magna Mining (TSX.V: NICU) (OTCQB: MGMN), moving into copper production, with solid nickel and PGM co-credits.  This also brings the discussion back into how trend changes in vehicle production and changes to the energy transition narrative should benefit these key metals of focus.   Next Doc Jones and I dive into all the newsflow out of Emerita Resources (TSX.V: EMO) (OTCQB: EMOTF), at the IBW Project, and continued encouraging polymetallic metallurgical results and successful exploration expanding in mineralization in multiple areas.  He also outlined that the pending legal proceedings on the Aznalcollar zinc-lead-silver Project are now only 3 months away, as another potential value driver.   Wrapping up we review the newsflow and 2024 milestones from Omai Gold Mines (TSXV: OMG) (OTCQB: OMGGF), and the anticipated value drivers for 2025 in this gold exploration and development company.  We discuss whether the 4.3 million ounces of gold in Guyana, a country that saw 2 acquisition transactions this year, could position Omai Gold as another takeover candidate. Doc Jones outlines that a buyout is quite possible down the road, but that his personal investment thesis focuses more on current valuations and upcoming catalysts, over the potential future sale of the company.   *In full disclosure, Doc Jones holds a position in these companies discussed at the time of this recording, but is not compensated by any company to market them.  These are simply his views and opinions as to why he likes investing in them, but this is not investment advice.   Shad is also a shareholder of Magna Mining at the time of this recording.   Click here to follow Doc Jones on Ceo.ca   Click here to follow Doc Jones on X/Twitter

Interview with Terry Lynch, CEO of Power NickelOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/power-nickel-tsxvpnpn-unearthing-a-high-grade-polymetallic-gem-in-quebecs-james-bay-region-5925Recording date: 19th December 2024Power Nickel (TSXV:PNPN) has electrified the market with a major new nickel-copper-PGM discovery at its NISK project in Quebec. The company was originally exploring NISK for its high-grade nickel potential, but a wild step-out hole 5.5 km away hit a massive sulfide zone grading 1.5% copper and nearly 1 oz/ton platinum group metals (PGMs) over 8 meters. Subsequent drilling has traced this Lion Zone over 500 meters of strike length and to 500-600 meter depth, with exceptional grades of up to 7% copper equivalent over significant widths.CEO Terry Lynch believes they are just scratching the surface of a large mineralized system. "For every ton of copper sulfide you find, you find between 2-7 tons of nickel sulfides underneath, with an average of around five," he explained in a recent interview. "If we find 10, 15, 20 million tons of copper sulfide, ordinarily one would expect somewhere between 40 to 100 million tons of nickel sulfide. It's going to be big."Power Nickel already has an estimated 5-7 million tons grading 5-7% copper equivalent at Lion based on about 10,000 meters of drilling. The current 30,000 meter program aims to triple that to 15-20 million tons in 2025. Three drill rigs are turning now with a steady flow of assay results expected to start in January.The company is well funded after raising C$20 million in a financing anchored by mining magnate Robert Friedland and other billionaire backers including Rob McEwen. Power Nickel has also seen strong interest from major mining companies who are eager to secure new supplies of critical minerals like nickel and copper.Metallurgical studies are a key focus for 2025 to determine the best way to economically recover all the valuable metals in this polymetallic deposit. CEO Lynch is optimistic they can achieve good recoveries based on discussions with Friedland who has extensive experience with similar deposits in South Africa.The blue sky potential for Power Nickel is to have a world-class discovery on its hands, in the same league as giant camps like Norilsk, Voisey's Bay or Sudbury. Even at this relatively early stage, analysts ascribe a value of roughly C$100 million to the Lion Zone discovery. Lynch sees potential for a 10-bagger or more. "All great deposits get paid and this will be a great deposit," he affirmed. "Our shareholders will get what they deserve."With a monster discovery shaping up, a strong Quebec address, and lots of news flow on tap, Power Nickel has all the ingredients to charge up your mining portfolio. Drill results and metallurgy news in 2025 could provide the jolt to power shares significantly higher.

Interview with Chris Showalter, Director & CEO of Lifezone Metals Ltd.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/lifezone-metals-nyselzm-powering-the-ev-revolution-with-clean-nickel-technology-in-tanzania-6232Recording date: 20th December 2024Lifezone Metals has strengthened its position in the nickel market with a significant resource upgrade at its Kabanga project in Tanzania. The company recently announced a 20% increase in contained nickel in measured and indicated resources, reaching 46.8 million tons at 2.09% nickel grade, including over 3 million tons grading above 3% nickel.The Kabanga project, which has seen over $200 million invested in drilling to date, has emerged as one of the highest-grade undeveloped nickel deposits globally. The project's resource base is notably well-defined, with more than 80% classified in the measured and indicated categories – an uncommon achievement for a development-stage project.Lifezone has made substantial progress in securing financial backing for Kabanga's development. Mining giant BHP has joined as a strategic partner, while discussions are advancing with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) for political risk insurance. The company has also signed an MOU with Japan's JOGMEC to facilitate nickel marketing to Japanese end-users, potentially opening doors for additional strategic partnerships.On the technical front, Lifezone has successfully demonstrated its processing capabilities, producing high-purity battery-grade nickel and cobalt products from Kabanga ore samples. This achievement marks the first time Kabanga's nickel has been processed to a final refined end-product, validating the company's hydromet processing technology.Beyond Kabanga, Lifezone is diversifying through its recycling business. The company has formed a 50/50 joint venture with Glencore to recover valuable metals, including PGMs, nickel, cobalt, and copper, from recycled batteries and end-of-life vehicles in North America. This venture aims to streamline the currently fragmented battery recycling supply chain through vertical integration.CEO Chris Showalter emphasizes the strategic importance of Kabanga's high-grade resource in an increasingly competitive market, particularly given Indonesia's dominant position in global nickel supply. The project's superior grade is expected to enable lower-cost production and reduced environmental impact compared to peers.The investment case for Lifezone Metals centers on its exposure to growing nickel demand from the electric vehicle sector, anchored by a high-grade resource and clear financing strategy. With both the Kabanga project and recycling business advancing, near-term catalysts include the completion of Kabanga's definitive feasibility study, financing milestones, and recycling business developments.View Lifezone Metals' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/lifezone-metalsSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Interview with Jason Jessup, CEO of Magna Mining Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/magna-mining-tsxvnicu-unlocking-value-in-sudburys-high-grade-copper-nickel-projects-5062Recording date: 10th December 2024Magna Mining is set to acquire the McCreedy West copper mine and other Sudbury assets from KGHM in a transformational $9.3 million deal expected to close in Q1 2025. The acquisition includes the producing McCreedy West mine, two mines on care and maintenance (Levack and Podolsky), and five exploration properties in the Sudbury Basin.McCreedy West, currently producing 317,000 tonnes annually at 1.6% copper, will serve as the foundation for Magna's growth strategy. The underground mine features three distinct zones: a nickel-rich Main zone, copper-dominant 700 Complex, and PGM-rich PM zone. Magna plans to optimize and expand production from the current 900 tonnes per day to 1,500 tonnes per day by the end of 2025, potentially generating $20-40 million in free cash flow by 2026.The company has outlined an ambitious development sequence, using McCreedy West's cash flow to fund the restart of the historic Levack mine in 2026. Levack contains a high-grade resource of 700,000 tonnes at 4% copper, 1% nickel, and 4-5 g/t PGMs. During its previous operation under FNX Mining, Levack consistently produced exceptional grades of 8-10% copper with significant precious metal credits.Magna's growth strategy extends beyond these initial assets. The company plans to advance its 100%-owned Crean Hill project, with a pre-feasibility study scheduled for H2 2025 and potential production by 2027. By year-end 2027, Magna envisions operating three mines in commercial production, with Podolsky representing a fourth future opportunity.The acquisition particularly resonates with Magna's management team, led by CEO Jason Jessup, who previously operated these assets at FNX Mining. Under their management, FNX transformed similar non-core INCO assets into a $1.5 billion company that was later acquired.Beyond the production potential, Magna sees significant exploration upside, particularly in the 2-kilometer trend between McCreedy West and Levack. This underexplored footwall environment has historically yielded high-grade discoveries, and the company expects to announce a new discovery within two years.The strategy aligns with growing copper demand driven by global electrification trends. S&P Global forecasts copper demand to double to 50 million metric tons by 2035, driven by electric vehicles, renewable energy infrastructure, and grid modernization. With established infrastructure in the tier-one Sudbury jurisdiction and access to multiple processing facilities, Magna is positioning itself to capitalize on these favorable market fundamentals while minimizing capital requirements through staged development of its asset portfolio.View Magna Mining's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/magna-miningSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

In this episode, we have a returning guest who appeared back in March 2022 (episode 226). Alan Clegg whose had a long and established career in mining for over 4 decades working in various aspects of metals & minerals value chain from exploration through to mine closure, including financing of projects, projects management & projects construction & execution, he's done it all. He also published more than 20 technical papers & presented at numerous international conferences and today talks about a variety of topics including precious metals, PGM's, the energy transition, ESG and more. Some controversial topics with valid explanations but with truth always in Alan's mind. KEY TAKEAWAYS Gold has historically been viewed as a store of wealth, with its price fluctuations often reflecting the depreciation of fiat currencies rather than changes in its intrinsic value. Recent trends show a significant increase in gold prices, driven by global economic uncertainties and increased central bank purchases. Silver is primarily an industrial metal, with significant demand stemming from its use in electronics and solar panels. The market is currently facing a deficit, and retail interest in silver is growing as more individuals seek affordable ways to invest in precious metals. The platinum group metals (PGMs) market has experienced volatility due to shifts in automotive technology, particularly the transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles. Despite this, there is a projected market deficit for platinum, indicating potential future value. The so-called "green transition" is not a true transition but rather an addition of energy sources. The demand for critical minerals, particularly for battery production, is expected to outpace supply, raising concerns about the feasibility of fully replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources. BEST MOMENTS "Gold has been seen as a store of wealth for more than 5,000 years... an ounce of gold today is still an ounce of gold, despite price fluctuations." "The current estimates suggest that China may have as much as 30,000 tons of gold... a hedge against fiat currency failure." "The silver market is facing a net deficit of around 700,000 to 800,000 ounces in 2024, which is quite large." "For every thousand deposits of metals and minerals that we discover, only one or two become tier one producing mines." VALUABLE RESOURCES Mail:        rob@mining-international.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/ X:              https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast  Web:        http://www.mining-international.org GUEST SOCIALS alan@ukwazi.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-m-clegg-pr-eng-00227a9/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. CONTACT METHOD rob@mining-international.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/ Podcast Description Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people's experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics. 

Jason Jessup is the CEO/founder of Magna Mining $NICU. NICU is a junior copper, nickel, PGMs, and PM developer and producer in Sudbury, Canada. I'll keep it simple. I think Jason is building the next multi-billion dollar mining company. He's got everything in place ... the team, the assets, the opportunity. And I think he's the man for the job. Give this podcast a listen and let me know what you think. DISCLOSURE: NICU IS MY LARGEST PERSONAL HOLDING BY FAR. I AM BIASED. PLEASE DO YOUR OWN DUE DILIGENCE. THIS IS MINING, EVERYTHING CAN AND WILL GO WRONG. NOTHING IS ADVICE. Finally, a big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode happen. Mitimco This episode is brought to you by MIT Investment Management Company, also known as MITIMCo, the investment office of MIT. Each year, MITIMCo invests in a handful of new emerging managers who it believes can earn exceptional long-term returns in support of MIT's mission. To help the emerging manager community more broadly, they created ⁠⁠⁠⁠emergingmanagers.org⁠⁠⁠⁠, a website for emerging manager stockpickers. I highly recommend the site for those looking to start a stock-picking fund or just learning about how others have done it. You'll find essays and interviews by successful emerging managers, service providers used by MIT's own managers, essays MITIMCo has written for emerging managers, and more! TIKR TIKR is THE BEST resource for all stock market data, I use TIKR every day in my process, and I know you will too. Make sure to check them out at ⁠⁠⁠⁠TIKR.com/hive⁠⁠⁠⁠. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/valuehive/support

Interview with Chris Showalter, Director & CEO of Lifezone Metals Ltd.Recording date: 7th November 2024Lifezone Metals is an emerging battery metals company offering investors unique exposure to the electric vehicle (EV) supply chain. The company's key asset is the Kabanga nickel-cobalt project in Tanzania, which ranks as one of the largest and highest-grade undeveloped nickel sulphide deposits globally (25.8 Mt measured and indicated resources at 2.63% Ni, 0.35% Cu and 0.2% Co with additional 14.6 Mt Inferred resources) and would become a globally significant source of responsibly produced battery metals.What sets Lifezone apart is its proprietary hydrometallurgical technology, which allows the company to optimally process ore and unlock value from complex deposits. Lifezone's ability to design bespoke process flow sheets positions it to become a "solution provider" to the industry. The company aims to not only develop Kabanga but also deploy its technology to other projects via partnerships, generating a royalty stream.Lifezone's strategy is significantly de-risked through its partnerships with two mining majors. BHP has invested $100 million for the Kabanga project, with an option to increase to 60% and a floor valuation of 7x the project's post-DFS NPV. This provides downside protection and validates the project's world-class potential. Separately, Lifezone has a 50/50 joint venture with Glencore to apply its hydromet technology to recycling PGMs from autocatalysts in the US.Completion of the Kabanga DFS in H2 2024 is a major near-term catalyst. This will firm up project economics and trigger BHP's option to increase its stake. Concurrently, Lifezone is negotiating offtake agreements with parties like Japan's JOGMEC, which will underpin project financing. The company has a clear pathway to a fully funded Final Investment Decision by leveraging BHP's investment, debt financing, and its offtake rights.The investment opportunity is buoyed by Kabanga's potential to supply the lowest carbon intensity nickel to Western EV makers. With a projected CO2 footprint of 3-5t per tonne of nickel vs. the much higher levels of Indonesian producers, Lifezone is well-positioned to earn a "green premium". This is increasingly important as EV makers look to reduce their Scope 3 emissions and diversify from Chinese-controlled supply chains.Lifezone's assets are located in Tanzania, which is highly prospective for nickel but previously considered high-risk. However, the government has taken significant steps to improve the investment climate, including launching a mining tax review and committing to infrastructure development. Tanzania's progress, combined with BHP's backing, substantially mitigates jurisdictional risk.In summary, Lifezone presents a differentiated battery metals investment leveraged to the EV revolution. The company's large, high-grade resource base, clean processing technology, and top-tier partnerships create a compelling risk-reward proposition. With a value-accretive pathway to production and multiple near-term catalysts on the horizon, Lifezone is well-positioned to deliver shareholder returns as the world electrifies.View Lifezone Metals' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/lifezone-metalsSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

It's a semi green Monday and Nick and Brett are back to talk metals markets. PGMs are hanging in there and the guys share their opinions on what the next few months will look like. Produced by Recycled Media.

About the Guest(s):Don Weatherbee is the CEO of Regenexx, a forward-thinking organization focused on innovative precious metals recovery techniques. Transitioning from an accounting background, Don has extensive experience in the mining sector, including coal and oil sands, before joining Regenexx in 2015. His operational expertise coupled with leadership roles has equipped him with the tools to helm Regenexx's ambitious endeavors in sustainable technology and precious metal recycling.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of "Shape the System," host Vincent Turner converses with Don Weatherbee, CEO of Regenexx, unveiling the intricacies of precious metals recycling. Exploring a world often overshadowed, Don narrates his journey from a traditional mining accountant to a sustainability-driven CEO, revolutionizing how we perceive and process precious metals from resources like catalytic converters.As the discussion unfolds, Don highlights the critical deficit in the supply of platinum group metals (PGMs), exacerbated by geopolitical issues and finite earth resources. He articulates the unique Regenexx leaching technology that mitigates environmental impact and harnesses economic potential by efficiently recycling PGMs from used catalytic converters. The conversation further delves into the significance of PGMs in global industries, the current obstacles in traditional recycling methods, and the promising innovations spearheaded by Regenexx.Key Takeaways:Precious Metals Recycling: Regenexx is pioneering a revolutionary hydrometallurgical process to recover platinum group metals from catalytic converters, spotlighting the scarcity of these critical resources.Industry Insights: The global demand for PGMs is rising, with supply already in deficit by 259,000oz annually, leading to increased focus on sustainable recycling over traditional mining.Environmental Benefits: The Regenexx method minimizes the environmental footprint associated with mining and traditional recycling, emphasizing the crucial need for earth-friendly resource recovery techniques.Economic Viability: Regenexx aims to scale operations, reflecting a significant market opportunity within the $20 billion catalytic converter industry and beyond.Strategic Expansion: Future growth plans include geographic expansion and potential international licensing, aligning with the mission to broaden sustainable metal recovery practices globally.Notable Quotes:"Precious metals are the most rare metals in the earth's crust.""Platinum and palladium are essential oxidizers and conductors used in catalytic converters and fuel cells.""Our hydrometallurgical process is transforming precious metals recovery with minimal environmental impact.""Mining alone can't meet future global demands; recycling is crucial to sustain growth.""We're at a commercial scaling inflection point, with vast opportunities ahead in sustainable recycling."Resources:Regenexx: regenexx.comCanadian Exchanges and Trading Symbols: RGX (Canada), RGXT (US)Engage fully with this episode to explore the transformative potential of sustainable precious metals recycling. Stay tuned for additional insightful content from the "Shape the System" series, where more innovative stories and thought leaders await to reshape how we consider the world around us.Shape the System is  an independent podcast with support from KPMG High Growth Ventures More about KPMG High Growth VenturesScale up for success. We're here for that.We navigate founders and their teams to the services they need to reach their next milestone. From startup to scale and beyond. No matter where you are right now, we'll get you the help you need to drive your business forward. We help founders fully realise their potential, as well as the potential of their team and their business, by connecting them to the expertise, skills and resources they need at every stage of their growth journey.Our extensive experience in partnering with evolving businesses means that we can provide you with tailored support as well as independent and practical insights. Whether you are looking to refine your strategy, establish your operations, prepare for a capital raise, expand abroad or simply comply with regulatory requirements, we are here to help.Links:Website: About (highgrowthventures.com.au)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/kpmg-enterprise-high-growth-ventures/Contacts: highgrowthventures@kpmg.com.au  

This week on The Sunday Roast, Phil Carroll, Kevin Hornsby, and Charles Archer are joined by legendary investor Rick Rule from Rule Investment Media. Broadcasting from New York City, the hosts dive into the U.S. election chaos and how it could impact global markets. Rick shares his expert insights on gold, copper, and platinum group metals (PGMs), discussing their potential in the current market climate. Plus, a roundup of the week's top stock movers and shakers from home and abroad. 0:00-00:09:02  Weekly News Roundup  00:09:02 Rick Rule Interview 01:08:29 #EPP  01:11:17 #RMR  01:12:48 #ARCM  01:14:12 #BZT 01:15:12 #AFP  01:16:40 #XTR  01:18:09 #GLR  01:22:53 #CEL Visit Link to YouTube video: https://youtu.be/TLE7cICpxQI Disclaimer & Declaration of Interest The information, investment views, and recommendations in this podcast are provided for general information purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell any financial product relating to any companies under discussion or to engage in or refrain from doing so or engaging in any other transaction. Any opinions or comments are made to the best of the knowledge and belief of the commentator but no responsibility is accepted for actions based on such opinions or comments. The commentators may or may not hold investments in the companies under discussion

Schalk Louw of PSG Old Oak on strong results from Clicks, Amplats's update as PGMs creep higher, and Cashbuild's decent update amid tough trading conditions. Spear Reit CEO Quintin Rossi's insights on the group's H1 results. Simon's thoughts on not panicking when long-term investments have a short-term stumble.

Schalk Louw of PSG Old Oak on today's market developments, the US proposing palladium sanctions on Russia and the impact this has had on South Africa, platinum counters, and the gold price drifting higher. SAfm Market Update - Podcasts and live stream

David Shapiro of Sasfin Wealth discusses the day's market developments, inflation, Famous Brands's numbers, PGMs as platinum rises above $1 000, US sentiment as the elections get closer, and whether EOH will ever recover. SAfm Market Update - Podcasts and live stream

Mantengu Mining, under the leadership of CEO Mike Miller, is poised for transformation with the strategic acquisition of the Blue Ridge Platinum mine. Mantengu Mining, under the leadership of CEO Mike Miller, is poised for transformation with the strategic acquisition of the Blue Ridge Platinum mine. This deal represents a significant opportunity to unlock intrinsic value from distressed assets in a challenging economic landscape. Miller highlighted the plan to utilise Blue Ridge's million-ton dump of high-grade chrome and PGMs, which could drive substantial production. By adopting a phased approach, Mantengu aims to revitalise the mine while prioritising local job creation and community empowerment. With support from stakeholders like the Industrial Development Corporation, Mantengu is focused on turning Blue Ridge into a profitable and sustainable operation. Miller spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

Petri Redelinghuys from Herenya Capital points out that some auto manufacturers that committed to being ‘100% EV' by 2030 are rethinking that pledge.

Interview with Derrick Weyrauch, President & CEO of GT Resources Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/copper-gaining-traction-investors-positioning-for-the-upswing-5616Recording date: 12 September 2024GT Resources presents an intriguing opportunity for investors seeking exposure to the critical metals sector, which is poised to benefit from the global transition to clean energy and sustainable technologies. As an exploration stage company focused on copper, nickel, and platinum group metals (PGMs) in Europe and Canada, GT Resources is strategically aligning its portfolio with the materials essential for the green economy.One of GT Resources' key strengths is its strategic partnership with mining giant Glencore. This relationship not only provides crucial financial support but also serves as a strong vote of confidence in the company's projects and management. Derek Weyrauch, President and CEO of GT Resources, highlighted that Glencore has provided financial backing multiple times over the past 18 months, enabling the company to pursue its exploration programs despite challenging market conditions.The company's project portfolio includes two notable assets that investors should keep an eye on. First, the Canalask nickel project in Finland, where GT Resources recently completed an exploration program. Results from this program are pending and could serve as a significant near-term catalyst for the company's stock. Second, the North Rock copper project in Ontario, acquired through the purchase of MetalCorp last year. This project boasts a historic resource of a million ton and 1.2% copper according to Weyrauch, and the company plans to advance it with geophysics work scheduled to begin later this year.GT Resources' focus on copper, nickel, and PGMs is well-timed to capitalize on emerging trends in the automotive industry. Wush provided interesting insights into the potential for hybrid vehicles to drive PGM demand in the near term, as these vehicles require both batteries and catalytic converters. This perspective suggests that the company's PGM assets could benefit from a more gradual transition to fully electric vehicles than some market observers predict.Financially, GT Resources demonstrates prudent management in a challenging market for junior explorers. The company recently raised $1.8 million through a structured financing, with Glencore taking 100% of the back end at a premium to mitigate dilution. This tactical approach to financing allows GT Resources to continue its exploration activities while maintaining financial stability.While the junior mining sector faces challenges, including market volatility and financing difficulties, GT Resources' diversified portfolio and strategic approach to exploration and financing help mitigate these risks. The company's focus on critical metals essential for the green energy transition positions it well to potentially benefit from long-term demand growth in these commodities.As with any investment in the junior mining sector, thorough due diligence is essential. While GT Resources offers exposure to in-demand metals and benefits from a strong strategic partnership, investors should be aware of the inherent risks associated with exploration-stage companies and the cyclical nature of commodity markets.Investors considering GT Resources should closely monitor upcoming news releases, particularly regarding exploration results from the Canalask project and advancements at the North Rock copper project. These developments could serve as significant catalysts for the company's valuation. Additionally, keeping an eye on broader market trends in critical metals and the adoption rates of hybrid and electric vehicles could provide context for the company's long-term prospects.View GT Resources' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/palladium-one-miningSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Interview with Luiz Azevedo, Chairman & CEO of Bravo Mining Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/bravo-mining-tsxvbrvo-accelerating-to-pgm-production-in-brazil-4471Recording date: 12th September 2024Bravo Mining Corp. is emerging as a noteworthy player in the critical minerals sector, focusing on its flagship Luanga platinum group metals (PGM) and base metals project in Brazil's prolific Carajás Mineral Province. Led by CEO and Chairman Luis Azevedo, the company is strategically positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for PGMs, driven by their use in hybrid vehicles, while also benefiting from a recent high-grade copper discovery.The Luanga project currently boasts a substantial PGM resource of 9.8 million ounces (including indicated and inferred categories), with an updated mineral resource estimate expected in Q1 2025. This update is anticipated to show growth in the overall resource size while maintaining similar grades. Importantly, recent deep drilling has demonstrated the potential for resource expansion at depth, with mineralization confirmed to at least 450 meters.A significant development for Bravo Mining is the recent copper discovery at Luanga, with one drill hole intersecting 11 meters at 15% copper with 3 g/t gold. This high-grade copper mineralization adds a new dimension to the project and could significantly enhance its economics. The company is actively following up on this discovery with additional drilling.Bravo Mining benefits from Luanga's strategic location in an established mining region with well-developed infrastructure, including roads, power lines, and a supportive government. This existing infrastructure is expected to reduce future development costs and enhance the project's overall economics. The company has also made steady progress on the permitting front, with full permitting anticipated by 2025.Financially, Bravo Mining is well-positioned with approximately $25 million in cash as of the interview date. This strong cash position provides ample resources for continued exploration and development activities without immediate funding pressure. The company has demonstrated efficient capital deployment, having completed nearly 120,000 meters of drilling for about $30 million since going public.The macro environment for PGMs and copper appears favorable. There's growing recognition of PGMs' importance in hybrid vehicles, which are gaining traction as an intermediate step in the global energy transition. Simultaneously, copper demand is poised for significant growth driven by increased electrification across various sectors. Geopolitical challenges in traditional producing regions like South Africa (for PGMs) and Chile and Peru (for copper) are prompting miners and investors to seek new, stable jurisdictions for resource development.Brazil is attracting increased attention as a mining investment destination, with Azevedo noting a rise in international mining companies operating in the country. The pro-mining stance of the government and the country's overall stability contribute to its appeal.For investors, Bravo Mining offers exposure to both PGMs and copper in a favorable jurisdiction. Key catalysts to watch include the upcoming resource update in Q1 2025, ongoing results from copper zone exploration, and progress on permitting milestones. While the company appears well-positioned, investors should be mindful of risks associated with resource definition, permitting processes, and future capital requirements for project construction.Overall, Bravo Mining's Luanga project represents an intriguing opportunity in the critical minerals space, with potential for significant value creation as the company advances its PGM resource and explores the newly discovered copper mineralization.View Bravo Mining's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/bravo-miningSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Summary In this episode of JSE Direct, Simon Brown discusses various topics including the troubles faced by Anglo Platinum, the performance of leisure stocks, Anglo Gold Ashanti's* acquisition of an Egyptian gold miner, and the impact of two pot withdrawals. He also touches on the future of PGMs, the growth of electric vehicles, and the psychology of markets.  Takeaways Anglo Platinum is facing challenges as Anglo American wants to get rid of their stake, causing a sell-off in the market. Anglo Platinum weekly chart The PGMs market is uncertain, with palladium and platinum prices experiencing fluctuations. The World Platinum Council projects a second year of meaningful platinum deficits, with jewelry demand expected to rise. The growth of electric vehicles is impacting the demand for PGMs, but the market is still uncertain. Investors should wait for positive price action before considering investments in PGMs. Anglo Gold Ashanti's acquisition of an Egyptian gold miner raises questions about the use of equity and the future of gold prices. Two pot withdrawals have resulted in over 4 billion rand being withdrawn from the market. Leisure stocks, such as City Lodge and Sun International, have mixed performance, with City Lodge experiencing lower occupancy rates. The growth of sports betting raises concerns about its impact on poorer individuals and the fairness of the industry. Sound Bites "Anglo Platinum has a problem which is perhaps a little more unique than just the PGMs." "There is that initial overhang. A whole lot of people will get Anglo-Platinum shares and say, 'I don't want these' and sell it." "The World Platinum Council is saying we're gonna have deficit again, that's the important point." Simon Brown * I hold ungeared positions. All charts by KoyFin | Get 10% off your order Chapters 00:00 Challenges for Anglo Platinum and the PGMs Market 02:22 The Future of PGMs and the Impact of Electric Vehicles 07:54 The World Platinum Council's Projections 09:16 The Diminishing Role of Internal Combustion Engines 11:09 The Impact of Low Prices on Production 14:55 Anglo Gold Ashanti's Acquisition and the Use of Equity 17:56 Pot Withdrawals and their Effect on the Market 19:18 Performance of Leisure Stocks: City Lodge and Sun International 19:42 Concerns about Sports Betting and its Impact 20:10 Upcoming Events: Investment Goals and the Psychology of Markets

The recent thriving in the copper industry is not a surprise. With the high demand in the green energy transition, EV boom production, and Al development which requires copper in its semiconductor production, copper has become one of the most strategically important metals of the century. Top producers of copper are developing world states with unstable domestic situations, such as Peru or the Democratic Republic of Congo. Some of these producers pose a threat to U.S. national interests, such as China, leading to economic or trade wars and instability in the business sector. Additionally, countries like Russia, involved in open military conflict with its neighbour and heavily sanctioned by other states, complicate the landscape. Colin Bennett is an experienced industry and market researcher, a senior and successful leader with many years of combined industry, consulting, communications and management practice. Colin has experience in building and leading teams, and creating highly professional and performing departments. Colin has a proven ability to inspire, build and manage, and with a unique mix of expertise and entrepreneurial spirit. Colin's expert metal is Copper!Krisztina Kalman is the Director of MM Markets an international management consultancy providing strategy, commercial and technical consulting services for the metals, mining and materials sectors. Krisztina has gathered over 20 years of expertise in strategy and management consulting. Her commodity focus has been copper, nickel, aluminium, chromium, steel, gold, PGMs and diamonds. She developed and led a number of relevant projects for clients including several mining majors, metal producers, junior mining companies, investors, and sector bodies. She has a Bachelor degree from the University of Cologne, Germany, and an MBA from NYU Stern Business School New York, USA. The International Risk Podcast is a weekly podcast for senior executives, board members, and risk advisors. In these podcasts, we speak with experts in a variety of fields to explore international relations. Our host is Dominic Bowen, Head of Strategic Advisory at one of Europe's leading risk consulting firms. Dominic is a regular public and corporate event speaker, and visiting lecturer at several universities. Having spent the last 20 years successfully establishing large and complex operations in the world's highest-risk areas and conflict zones, Dominic now joins you to speak with exciting guests around the world to discuss international risk. The International Risk Podcast – Reducing risk by increasing knowledge.Follow us on LinkedIn for all our great updates.

00:00 – Hoje, no Ulrich Responde... 00:43 – O dinheiro mudou 02:00 – EUA em recessão? Ações brasileiras podem se valorizar? 03:47 – Diferença entre juros 0 e não existir taxa de juros nem banco central? 07:40 – Eleições nesse ano são o termômetro para ficar no Brasil? 09:34 – Com Kamala, os ETFs de petróleo valorizam? 10:49 – As empresas serão maiores que os governos? 11:53 – Os efeitos da turbulência do Iene na China 12:46 – O que esperar do que resta do governo Lula? 15:50 – HASH11 é uma boa forma de entrar em cripto? 16:34 – Fed ligou a impressora? 17:50 – Como manter um caixa em dólares para investir? 19:37 – Um ativo que vai virar pechincha na próxima recessão 20:38 – EWZ é um bom para se expor ao Brasil? 23:00 – O que acha de ter tudo em Bitcoin? 25:40 – A redução do consumo chinês impacta a tese da platina? 26:15 – Ulrich, um ex-hater do Musk? 28:03 – Como te enviar um presente? 28:27 – Empresas brasileiras que lucram com real fraco? 30:41 – Novidades chegando! 31:32 – Empresa destaque no ramo dos PGMs? 32:48 – O que são juros longos? 34:34 – Ainda mantem as convicções de 2014 referente ao Bitcoin? 35:30 – Como foi ser cristão em um país muçulmano?

Nick Kunze from Sanlam Private Wealth analyses Friday's weak jobs data and its potential impact on the Fed, as well as the factors driving PGMs higher. John Loos of FNB discusses the Q2 2024 Property Broker Survey, noting a decline in sales activity in two of three sectors, possibly influenced by pre-election caution. Debra Slabber of Morningstar SA emphasises that time is more important than return in investing and saving.

In this final episode of The Current, we revisit some of the highlights and reiterate the critical takeaways you need to know from the nine-part podcast series. From SA's solar boom to progress at Eskom, electric vehicles and how to finance energy infrastructure, this is a summation from 20 experts inside Investec and beyond. This series was hosted by Iman Rappetti- an award-winning journalist and author. 00:00: Intro 01:57: The consequences if SA doesn't transition 03:36: Clean energy's advantages 04:42: Diagnosing Eskom's woes 05:35: Private sector investment in energy: REIPP's success 06:52: The importance of unbundling Eskom 07:17: Eskom's turnaround 08:01: Phasing out of fossil fuels 09:40: Examining humanity's reliance on coal and oil 10:53: The mining sector's contribution to carbonisation 11:39: The opportunity of PGMs (platinum and palladium) 12:53: Battery innovation 13:42: Bringing nuclear into the future energy mix 14:04: A case for nuclear 15:05: Is the promise of hydrogen overstated? 16:46: Investec's Sustainable Solution offering 17:30: SA's solar awakening 18:38: Growth of solar in the commercial and industrial (C&I) space 19:40: Solar's appeal 20:22: Equitable access to renewable energy 21:23: Electricity 'feedback' schemes 22:34: Electric vehicles in SA 24:10: Interest in EVs on the up 25:06: EV's for business rental 26:12: Economics of clean energy too good to ignore 27:39: Africa's crucial role in the globe's energy transition 28:18: Barriers to energy infrastructure investment 28:52: The opportunity for Africa to leapfrog to green industrialisation 29:40: SA to benefit from regional energy demand 31:21: Export and credit agency finance to derisk 32:11: Example of export finance in action: Acre Investment Fund 33:10: Incorporating renewable energy into your investment portfolio 33:57: How to invest to do well, and do good 35:12: The energy transition is worth the turbulent journey 36:23: Concluding comments and thanks To find out about Investec's private client and business energy offering, visit: https://www.investec.com/en_za/borrow/finance-for-individuals/sustainable-solutions.html To find learn more about Investec's corporate and institutional energy offering, click: https://www.investec.com/en_za/investec-for-corporates/finance/energy-infrastructure.html Explore investing in the Global Sustainable Equity Fund here: https://www.investec.com/en_za/investment/invest-offshore/global-sustainable-equity-fund.html The Current podcast series | Ep 1 - 10 · Investec Focus Radio SA

Consultorio bursátil de junio de 2024 en el que Adrián Godás y Paco Lodeiro respondemos a las preguntas de los oyentes. Las preguntas generales de este mes son sobre: Warren Buffett e invertir en indexados de small caps, montar una EAF, cómo seguir nuestras inversiones, declarar las acciones, cuándo vender, qué escuchamos o leemos para estar informados, empresas que valen más y no paran de subir, herramientas de control de inversiones, la financiación de las empresas con bonos o deuda bancaria, varios temas relacionados con invertir en materias primas y sobre prevenir OPAs indeseadas y delistings. Y las dudas sobre empresas y sectores son los metales PGMS y el manganeso, O3 Mining, Silver X, Alien Metals y sobre 5 empresas para no tocar a 20 años vista Patrocinador Paleobull, con código de descuento para los oyentes.

CEO Leon Coetzer describes the unique challenges faced in Zambia, the structural shift in SA production, and the future of EVs.

It's another Metal Monday and it's time for some new copper predictions! Hear how the guys celebrated Father's Day, how base metals and PGMs are doing and what the ferrous markets are looking like. Produced by Recycled Media.

Interview with Terry Lynch, CEO of Power NickelOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/power-nickel-tsxvpnpn-growing-high-grade-resource-4918Recording date: 4th June 2024Power Nickel (TSXV:PNPN) is a junior mining company that has made a remarkable discovery at its NISK project in Quebec's Abitibi region. The recently uncovered Lion Zone has emerged as a game-changer for the company, boasting exceptionally high-grade nickel, copper, platinum group metals (PGMs), gold, and silver mineralization.Drill results from the Lion Zone have been outstanding, with numerous holes yielding grades ranging from 3% to an astounding 30% copper equivalent over substantial widths. Importantly, the mineralization starts at surface and has been defined to a depth of 275m, with the main zone spanning 100m in width. The company estimates that the Lion Zone could already host a couple million tonnes of high-grade material, with significant potential for expansion.Power Nickel's CEO, Terry Lynch, believes that there are likely multiple high-grade shoots that could be connected to the main NISK nickel sulfide body, located 5-12km away. In parallel with drilling, Power Nickel is collaborating with CVMR, the world's largest private nickel refinery, on metallurgical testing to potentially produce high-purity nickel powder. This value-added product could command a substantial premium over standard nickel concentrate, significantly enhancing project economics.Power Nickel is well-funded to aggressively advance the NISK project, having recently raised $2M and benefiting from the exercise of in-the-money warrants. The company's strong shareholder base includes at least 11 billionaires and major mining investors such as Robert Friedland, providing both validation and financial support.The company is launching a $2.4M, 30,000m drill program focused on the Lion Zone, with the goal of delineating a multi-million ounce gold equivalent resource by summer. Investors can anticipate a steady stream of drill results and key catalysts over the next 6-12 months.With a tight share structure and low market capitalization (~C$30M), Power Nickel offers investors substantial leverage to exploration success. The company's partnership with CVMR and its location in a top mining jurisdiction further de-risk the project and enhance its appeal.As the global demand for critical minerals continues to surge, driven by the accelerating trends of decarbonization and electrification, companies like Power Nickel that can make significant discoveries and quickly advance them to production are well-positioned to create substantial shareholder value.View Power Nickel's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/power-nickelSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com 

Interview with Frank Basa, President & CEO of Coniagas Battery Materials Inc.Recording date: 6th June 2024Coniagas Battery Metals (TSXV:COS) is a newly listed junior explorer spinning out of a previous company to focus on nickel, copper, cobalt and PGMs in Quebec, Canada. With a tight share structure, experienced management team, and promising early-stage exploration results, the company offers speculative exposure to the high-demand battery metals space.Coniagas' key asset saw 17,000 meters of drilling outlining potential for a significant 30-60 million tonne high-grade copper resource, though not yet 43-101 compliant. Early drill intercepts include 30 meters of 2.6% copper equivalent, showcasing the potential for an economic discovery. The mineralization remains open for expansion along strike and at depth.Management is particularly excited about the potential for a deeper Graal zone to host even higher grades over wider intervals. CEO Frank Basa likens the Graal zone to a "martini glass" shape that could deliver pretty results. Additional major drill campaign is set to begin in the next 2-3 months to test this deeper target and expand the known mineralization.Despite the prospective geology and upcoming catalysts, Coniagas trades at a significant discount to peers. At a $3.5 million market cap, the company is valued far below neighboring companies like Power Nickel at $116 million. This valuation gap could quickly close if Coniagas is able to replicate the exploration success of its peers.Coniagas is structured to maximize shareholder upside and minimize dilution. The company has only 5.2 million of its 30 million shares free trading, with the rest held in escrow to be released over three years. This means any positive developments could drive an outsized move in the stock.The company also operates with a lean corporate structure, with management owning significant skin in the game through stock options. This aligns the team with shareholders and keeps costs down to focus spending on drilling. As Basa puts it, "the reality is for exploration and uh all the money goes on the ground."The company's main asset is still at an early stage, while metallurgy, permitting, and capital costs are also uncertain at this point. Like any junior explorer, Coniagas will rely on continued access to capital markets to fund its activities.For speculative investors bullish on battery metals and able to tolerate volatility, Coniagas presents a timely opportunity. The company is poised to kick off an ambitious drill campaign in a top jurisdiction, backstopped by a tight share structure and experienced management team. If the drills start turning up high-grade nickel and copper, Coniagas shareholders could be well-rewarded. But as always, thorough due diligence is essential and position sizing should be kept modest to reflect the risks.In a world rapidly shifting to electric vehicles and clean energy, new supplies of battery metals are desperately needed. Coniagas Battery Metals aims to help fill that gap and create value for shareholders in the process. With drills set to start turning and a rock-bottom valuation, now may be the time for risk-tolerant investors to take a closer look at this high-potential battery metals play.View Coniagas Battery Metals' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/coniagas-battery-metalsSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

  Election Results Impact on Markets Slow ballot counting with three ballots, 18.7% counted. CSIR prediction at 5%: ANC 42%, DA 22%, EFF 9%, MK 14%, Patrick Alliance 2%. Market concerns about ANC forming a coalition. Rand fluctuations: From 18.34 on Tuesday to 18.61 currently. [caption id="attachment_42259" align="aligncenter" width="849"] Rand | 1pm 30 May 2024[/caption] Pepkor Results: 9.5% revenue growth. 24.5% growth in fintech, now 12% of the business. Pepkor sells 7 out of 10 smartphones in South Africa. Woolies (Woolworths) Update: Earnings down 20% for the year ending June. Challenges in the clothing segment, further deterioration in footfall and discretionary spend. Food segment performing better, but overall market reaction negative. Zeda Results: Revenue growth of 19%, HEPs up 12.5%, return on equity at 28.5%. Surprise 50 cents dividend despite previous year-end dividend expectations. BHP Billiton and Anglo American Merger BHP walked away from the Anglo-American takeover proposal. Speculation about potential offers from Rio Tinto or Glencore. Anglo-American's disinvestment plans for De Beers and Anglo Platinum. Market Insights Discussion on Metrofile's challenges with dividend yield falling and pressure on share price. SAB Cap Investments' exit from Metrofile. South African Reserve Bank MPC rate announcement: No rate changes expected. Upcoming central bank meetings: ECB, FOMC, Bank of England, Swiss National Bank. Potential for future rate cuts in South Africa if inflation targets are met. Commodity webcast with Johann Erasmus available on Just One Lap. Insights into gold, PGMs, and copper. Mention of the cheaper gold ETF from 1nvest compared to Absa GLD. Changes in 10X ETFs: Local Dividend Aristocrat and Smart Beta merging into a Top 50 ETF. * I hold ungeared positions.

Kieran Witthuhn from Anchor on what's driving PGM prices higher and whether it is sustainable. Andre Myburgh from TWK Agri discusses challenging results due to woodchip contamination caused by a fire in a nearby facility. Dany Mawas of Finalto South Africa discusses the use of an ODP licence by another party and how a company can comply with FSCA requirements.

It's yet another green Metal Monday and copper is still blowing past expectations. PGMs are going up a bit, for the most part, base metals are still doing alright as well. Ferrous is still soft. Tune in to hear more! Produced by Recycled Media.

UK and Local Inflation: UK inflation surprises at 3.2%, lowest in over two years. US Fed unlikely to cut rates soon, waiting for FOMC meetings. South Africa's CPI data for March at 5.3%, showing a positive trend. Potential for SA rate cuts, depending on US decisions. [caption id="attachment_41866" align="aligncenter" width="849"] SA Inflation 5.3% for March 2024[/caption] China and Commodities: China's GDP surpasses expectations at 5.3%, amid concerns over Fitch downgrade. Export data reflects overstocking, driving prices down. Despite challenges, China's market appears interesting. [caption id="attachment_41867" align="aligncenter" width="849"] Chinese GDP YearONYear per quarter[/caption] PGMs, oil, gold, and other commodities. Gold remains strong, targeting $2500. Recent attack on Israel by Iran affects oil prices. WeBuyCars listing and potential market impact. Transaction Capital analysis and investor considerations. Purple Capital* Results: Purple Capital swings back to profit, surprising the market. Key financial highlights and insights into EasyEquities performance. Exploration of new products and their impact on revenue. Analysis of client cohort growth and its implications. Positive outlook on Purple Capital's performance. Expectations of potential price pullback. Simon Brown * I hold ungeared positions.  

kk Sasol Secunda Reprieve Recap of Sasol's recent developments. Minister's agreement to Sasol's appeal regarding emissions at Secunda. Stock bounce and support level analysis. Target prices discussion and outlook for Sasol. PGM Miners' Performance Analysis of platinum group metal (PGM) miners' performance. Notable increases in stock prices. Consideration of factors affecting the industry, including production cuts and demand for catalytic converters. Exploration of whether the current uptrend indicates the beginning of a bull market. Discussion on supply and demand dynamics in the PGM market. Mention of Sibanye Stillwater's* CEO's forecast. Reflecting on year-to-date performance of PGMs. Insights into the future trajectory of PGM prices and potential risks. [caption id="attachment_41807" align="aligncenter" width="849"] PGM and miner moves for the month of April up to the 9th[/caption] Fitch Cuts China's Outlook to Negative Overview of Fitch's downgrade of China's outlook. Analysis of implications for the Chinese economy. Examination of the performance of Chinese stocks. Commentary on factors contributing to China's economic struggles. Exploration of potential effects on global markets. WeBuyCars Listing Preview of WeBuyCars' upcoming listing. Discussion on the valuation and market cap of WeBuyCars. Comparison with Transaction Capital. Speculation on market demand for second-hand cars and implications for WeBuyCars' growth strategy. Evaluation of WeBuyCars' disruptive potential in the automotive industry. Inflation Targeting Discussion Analysis of the South African Reserve Bank's inflation targeting strategy. Exploration of the history and purpose of inflation targeting. Evaluation of the current inflation target and potential for revision. Discussion on the process and implications of lowering the inflation target. Advocacy for starting the conversation on revising the inflation target to ensure long-term economic stability. Simon Brown Charts by KoyFin, use this link for 10% off your first order. * I hold ungeared positions.  

It's a green Metal Monday for once and Nick and Brett are back to discuss the markets, the upcoming #isri2024 convention in Las Vegas, and check in on PGMs.If you'd like to guest star on next week's Metal Monday in Las Vegas, text us at: (208) 487-4311. Produced by Recycled Media.

It's another typical bloody Monday and Nick and Brett are back to talk the metals markets! Copper is up, PGMs are soft and it's April Fool's Day! If you'd like to guest star on Metal Monday or be on A Scrap Life or are interested in reserving your spot on the FAFO Tour, text us at: (208) 487-4311. Produced by Recycled Media.

Investec's Quentin Allison, Ayan Ghosh and Fanele Mondi, CEO of the Energy Intensive Users Group, examine the crucial role of the mining sector in the energy transition, with a focus on the growing need for so-called "clean minerals" which South Africa has in abundance. 00:00 Intro 02:37 The energy trilemma 04:53 Just transition and how to manage the loss of jobs from coal mining 07:00 Energy transition happening at a slow pace 08:09 The promise of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) 10:56 Investec's Commodity Hedging and Working Capital Solutions 11:20 How clean are PGMs, really? 12:19 EVs are eating PGM's lunch 13:15 PGMs are vital in hydrogen fuel energy 16:27 South Africa's potential as a leader in the hydrogen economy 20:58 Other clean metals in the green energy transition 21:14 Nuclear energy in SA's energy mix 23:34 Will the hydrogen economy be a game changer for SA? This episode was brought to you by Investec Corporate and Institutional Banking. The Commodity Hedging and Working Capital Solutions team identifies opportunities and structures investment alternatives across traditional commodity assets and exciting frontier markets like regulated carbon allowances. Learn more: https://www.investec.com/en_za/investec-for-institutions/commodities.html Investec's Commodity Hedging and Working Capital solutions · Investec Focus Radio SA

Alberto is one of the most underfollowed accounts on Twitter/X. He provides tremendous value for generalist investors willing to hunt in commodity markets. This week, Alberto dove deep into uranium assets, Ero Copper, and the bull case for Platinum Group Metals (PGMs). I'm a huge fan of Alberto's Substack, which you can read here: https://albertoag.substack.com/ Also, make sure to follow Alberto on Twitter @AAGResearch Finally, a big thanks to the following sponsors for making the podcast a reality. Mitimco This episode is brought to you by MIT Investment Management Company, also known as MITIMCo, the investment office of MIT. Each year, MITIMCo invests in a handful of new emerging managers who it believes can earn exceptional long-term returns in support of MIT's mission. To help the emerging manager community more broadly, they created ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠emergingmanagers.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a website for emerging manager stockpickers. For those looking to start a stock-picking fund or just looking to learn about how others have done it, I highly recommend the site. You'll find essays and interviews by successful emerging managers, service providers used by MIT's own managers, essays MITIMCo has written for emerging managers and more! Tegus Tegus has the world's largest collection of instantly available interviews on all the public and private companies you care about. Tegus actually makes primary research fun and effortless, too. Instead of weeks and months, you can learn a new industry or company in hours, and all from those that know it best. I spend nearly all my time reading Tegus calls on existing holdings and new ideas. And I know you will too. So if you're interested, head on over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tegus.co/valuehive⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a free trial to see for yourself. TIKR TIKR is THE BEST resource for all stock market data, I use TIKR every day in my process, and I know you will too. Make sure to check them out at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TIKR.com/hive⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Marhelm Marhelm is an information service for investors to find real value in an overvalued market. With a focus on shipping and commodities, Marhelm helps you stay on the pulse of global trade, track global sentiment, and identify compelling investment opportunities. Get 20% of your subscription by using the code VALUE at checkout. Check it out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/valuehive/support

Safair, commanding 60% of South Africa's domestic air travel and expanding regionally, faces a critical investigation over allegations of breaching local shareholding laws. Guy Leitch, Editor at SA flyer Magazine says although competitors have a basis for their complaint, the licensing conditions in SA are too restrictive. After the SA economy slightly grew by 0.1% in Q4 of 2023, narrowly escaping a technical recession in Q4 of 2023, after it contracted by 0.2% in Q3 of the same year. Maarten Ackerman, chief economist at Citadel says there is nothing to be happy about as the figures point us to a South Africa that is in a “per capita recession”. This is because the population is growing faster than the struggling economy.    In our investment shapeshifter,  Chantal Marx, head of equity research at FNB Wealth and Investments on the dogs of the JSE and on when is it worth taking a chance? The dogs of the JSE are stocks that have lost more than 40% of their value over the last year include previous market darlings like Pick n Pay, Transaction Capital, PGMs, ArcelorMittal, Brait, Sasol, EOH, MTN, Spar, and Metair, etc.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Bradford J. Shwedo '87, uniquely suited to his calling, explains how he leverages lessons from the past to equip present-day warriors to dominate future warfare.    ----more---- SUMMARY A leader of warriors can never over-prepare for potential battle. Lt. Gen. Shwedo, director of USAFA's Institute for Future Conflict, draws on the distant past to teach today's cadets how to lead tomorrow's warriors into 21st century battles and win.   LEARN. ENGAGE. LEAD! Read more about the IFC in the first of a three-part series, Future Focus, in December 2023 Checkpoints! (Pg. 42)         OUR FAVORITE QUOTES IN THIS EPISODE "I saw that the Air Force figured out how to win with what you got. They would figure out a way through leadership to win with what they got." "Leadership is all about working with people, and you've got to understand people." "I work for you, I'm removing your impediments so you can do that, you know, kill the bad guys." "Don't forget who you are. There were there were times when we were shoveling show. I have learned to show up when it's crappy." "My focus had to be the Dean. And the direction comes from the national defense strategy. So we actually have a meeting a week with the futures guys. And that gives us insight."   VIDEO:  BRIEF ON THE IFC TO THE ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES AND FOUNDATION - 1-11-2024   SHARE THIS EPISODE FACEBOOK  |  LINKEDIN  |  TWITTER  |  EMAIL   CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:24 Early Competitive Streak and Decision to Join Air Force Academy 06:16 Being Open to Opportunities and Trusting the Process 07:38 Preparation and Academic Background 09:30 The Importance of Studying History and Being Prepared 10:56 Leadership Lessons from the West Wing 12:52 The Shift to Special Access Programs and New Ways of Thinking 16:34 Leading in Cyber and Intelligence Operations 17:30 The Decision to Join the Institute for Future Conflict 19:22 Shifting the Focus of Leadership and Academics 20:50 Helping Cadets Understand the Larger System 23:13 Preparing Cadets for the Future Fight 25:43 The Rise of Third Parties in Warfare 26:37 Motivating and Understanding People as a Leader 28:52 Are Leaders Born or Made? 30:19 Lessons in Leadership: Don't Forget Who You Are 31:17 Advice for the Next Generation of Warriors and Leaders 34:07 Leadership is About Working with People 36:21 Final Thoughts and Contact Information   OUR FAVORITE TAKEAWAYS - Leadership is about working with people and understanding what motivates them. - Being open to opportunities and trusting the process can lead to valuable experiences and career paths. - Studying history and being prepared can provide a strong foundation for future challenges. - Leaders must be aware of the changing nature of warfare and the rise of third parties in conflict.   GENERAL SHWEDO'S BIO Lt. Gen. (Ret) Bradford J. Shwedo '87 is the Director, Institute for Future Conflict. Previous to this position, he was the Director for Command, Control, Communications and Computers (C4)/Cyber, Chief Information Officer, Joint Staff, J6, the Pentagon. Lt. Gen. Shwedo has commanded at the detachment, squadron, group, wing and numbered air force levels. During these commands, his units were engaged in direct support to Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and the greater Global War on Terror providing worldwide Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Cyber operations. He also led an Intelligence Team to Desert Shield/Storm. His last command was 25th Air Force at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, where he led 30,000 personnel in worldwide operations, delivering multisource ISR products, applications, capabilities and resources. When he was the Chief, Information Dominance and Chief Information Officer for the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, he led four directorates that supported 77,000 personnel and cyber operations across the globe with a portfolio valued at $17 billion. Lt. Gen. Shwedo graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1987 with a degree in Military History and was also a student athlete, lettering in football. - Copy and image courtesy of www.USAFA.edu LEARN MORE ABOUT THE IFC   ABOUT LONG BLUE LEADERSHIP Long Blue Leadership drops every two weeks on Tuesdays and is available on Apple Podcasts, TuneIn + Alexa, Spotify and all your favorite podcast platforms. Search @AirForceGrads on your favorite social channels for Long Blue Leadership news and updates!        FULL TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS Our host is Dr. Doug Lindsay '92  |  Our guest is Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Bradford J. Shwedo '87   Gen. Shwedo  00:01 I saw the Air Force figured out how to win with what you got. They would figure out a way through leadership to win with what they got. They would put us in situations where they would facilitate our positives and negate our negatives. So, when you sit there and go, “Well, you didn't give me X, Y or Z, so we lost.” No, my expectation is we'll work to get what you need. But the expectation is still you win with what you got.   Doug Lindsay  00:55 My guest today is Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Bradford J. Shwedo, USAFA Class of 1987. Gen. Shwedo leads the Air Force Academy's Institute for Future Conflict as its first director. Throughout our conversation, you'll hear us refer to the Institute as the IFC. Gen. Shwedo was named to the position in March 2021 by Academy Superintendent, Gen. Richard Clark. The IFC is preparing cadets to wage and win wars in nontraditional domains. As we progress through our conversation with Gen. Shwedo, you will quickly understand why he was chosen to lead this pioneering institution where future-think informs everything they do. The general graduated from the Academy with a bachelor's in military history while also lettering in football. His career led him into an intelligence space, beginning with an assignment at Goodfellow Air Force Base in Texas in 1989, then Germany and Saudi Arabia. He served as threat manager with the 487th Intelligence Group from 1993 to 1995. He moved to the Pentagon as offensive information warfare chief in 1995. Between 1998 and 2020, he spent time in Korea, several assignments at CIA headquarters in Virginia, at Buckley Air Force base here in Colorado, and several more assignments at the Pentagon. He served in multiple command and leadership positions, and at one point was in charge of four directorates supporting 77,000 personnel, global cyber operations and assets valued at $17 billion. He's a consummate warrior, logistician, strategist and leader. Gen. Shwedo. Welcome to Long Blue Leadership.   Gen. Shwedo  02:33 Thanks so much. The pleasure is mine. Thanks a lot for having me.   Doug Lindsay  02:36 Absolutely. Let's, let's start kind of at the beginning if we if we can.  It seems like from an early age that you had a competitive streak.  Can you talk a little bit behind that background and that upbringing?   Gen. Shwedo  02:48 So, I will tell you, I was very, very pleased when the Air Force came knocking. And it started with football, as you brought up. And I was recruited as a high schooler to come out here and play and I think as what you were talking about my earlier career. I think I'm very much a product of the Academy across the board. It's not just one single piece. And one of the larger ones, though, was football, and quite honestly, and we'll talk about history, because that was very much one and then different comms programs, also big influences, but coming here to play football, it was amazing to me. There were so many great athletes, I wasn't one of them. But it was amazing to me every Saturday, we would go out there and we'd look at these guys that any layman would say there's no way these guys are going to win. And I learned a lot about leadership and a lot about, you know, capabilities and competitions in Falcon stadium. And I saw in Air Force that they figured out how to win with what you got. They would figure out a way through leadership to win with what they got. They would put us in situations as individual athletes, where they would facilitate our positives and negate our negatives on that competitive streak. All that background at Falcon Stadium was priceless. I mean, I learned a lot both playing and coaching on how to do that. And once again, that reflects greatly on the people in the Department of Athletics, who every day have to do exactly what I witnessed. But what a great life lesson for when after you graduate and you're no-lie defending the country. We expect you to win with what you got.    Doug Lindsay It's a no fail mission. Right?   Gen. Shwedo Absolutely. Absolutely. And what a great training ground, you know, to kind of lick your wounds when you didn't get the right lesson. But on game day, I felt like we were always there. We always understood what we needed to do. And we put those people in the right places so we could win that day.   Doug Lindsay 04:49 You realized that as you went through football and as you were coaching and doing that, but before that, when the Academy did come knocking or — what was it that intrigued you about it? Obviously the opportunity to play football… What was your thought process of that whole idea of saying, “I'm gonna go out to Colorado and I'm gonna do that?” And there's that service component as well.   Gen. Shwedo 05:07 I think the one thing that really impressed me about the Air Force Academy, and they still do this: They sell you on the whole program. You know, there are some places where, and I was getting recruited from other schools, where they're just focusing on the football, or whatever. And what I loved about the Air Force Academy was they sold you the whole package. And quite honestly, I encourage cadets when I meet with them to think of this place as a buffet. Because there's lots of things you don't know the Air Force does that is really, really cool. And my biggest problem was, I wanted to do everything. I mean, I wanted to be a pilot, I wanted to be an astronaut. I wanted to be a combat controller, I wanted to be an intelligence officer — I thought all of those things were really cool. And when I tell the cadets, look, “I know what you want to do right now. But think of this place as a buffet, you don't just sit down and eat one sample of those things. And you rapidly find out there's lots of different things that you may want to do.” And that's kind of the way I've been through my career is, you know, wow, that's really cool. Or that I'd like to do that. And [I've] been very lucky to be able to pounce on a lot of those opportunities.   Doug Lindsay 06:15 Being open to the process and kind of trusting the process, that there's something here that we're going to, we're looking out for you. I always thought that was kind of nice in my 22 years that there was always someone there looking out for me, protecting me from myself, so to speak, of, “Hey, you need to go here at this time. And you need to do that.” Even though it wasn't quite the vector I wanted to go, it was still probably the best one at the right time.   Gen. Shwedo 06:38 It is things you do for the team that doesn't always, you know, align with what you want to do. But in the long run was absolutely the right call.   Doug Lindsay 06:47 Right. And you mentioned the team, right. That's something I think that I learned as well, kind of going through this, it felt very much — when I would fail a GR test, it was very much me. But it was always kind of in the context of something larger about the about the team. And that's where that always felt like I was going through it alone. But I really wasn't because there were all these other people around me. No, you're exactly right. What else really resonated that set you up for success when you got on the Academy?   Gen. Shwedo 07:12 You know, on the academic side, I felt well prepared for what I was about to jump into. And, you know, military history for me was exactly what I wanted to do. There's an old Bismarck quote that says, “Only fools learn from their mistakes, wise men, you know, learn from other people's mistakes.” And that's kind of what dragged me to military history, because I was like, you know, there's a lot of life lessons there. And, you know, it was reading that I really enjoyed. Also, within the academics, you know, a long, long time ago, we studied about the Soviet Union, and World War III, and all of those things. And as you said, I went to intel school in '89. But I rapidly found myself in 1990, in Desert Shield, and all of those things that I had studied — because the Iraqis used a lot of the Soviet organize, train and equip structures — I knew what they were doing before. So, I had studied here. So, I felt really well prepared by the time Desert Storm started. And then that started kicking me off, you know, in the right direction,   Doug Lindsay 08:24 I always felt a little unsettled at the Academy, because it was always pulling me to do different things, not just be stuck in my lane, but learn that there are other lanes out there and that I can actually be in that lane and be OK, you know, whether it's academics or military or athletics. And I think there's something to that idea of not just letting people be a little unbalanced, and being comfortable with that in terms of being able to figure out where they need to be or what they need to do. Does that fit in with what you're talking about?   Gen. Shwedo 08:53 You're exactly right. And you know, everybody jokes about the GRs and the quizzes and knowing where you're going to take a hit here and you're gonna focus on that, as I talked about siri, that was not comfortable, but you kind of sucked it up. But first of all, you know, dealing with cadets in this job is the most humbling experience in my life. They're so much smarter than I ever was. And, you know, it's really humbling, and it's an honor to do that. But they fire, you know, evil questions back at you. And it's actually really fun to answer those questions. So, a lot of them will go, you know, “I'm learning all this stuff that's not applicable and blah, blah, blah.” And they'll ask me questions. So, when I was doing cyber, on the joint staff, we have these things called committee meetings and principal committee meetings. And those are either chaired by — the principal is chaired by the president or National Security Council and when you walk in, they are underwhelming conference rooms in the West Wing of the White House, I can assure you, and at a principals committee meeting you have a secretary of defense, the secretary of state, secretary of treasury, chairman of the joint chiefs of staff and sometimes when it would come to cyber, or frequencies that you know different election security. They go, “BJ, you take the meeting.” So, I would go and you know, the first time I walked on the West Wing of the White House, it was a significant emotional event. But back to the cadets, I have told them a hundred times, you know, when you go in there, first of all, you better be prepared, you better do all the studies. So, all of these things that we do to cram is not a bad thing. But the next piece is, I've told them numerous times, some of the things that I learned in Colorado Springs carry the day in West Wing discussions, because I remember studying those things, and, “Well, you're forgetting this portion of their history, or you're forgetting this piece.” And often, I'm sure you had it when you were running around, cadets are like, “Oh, when will I ever use this?”   Doug Lindsay 10:54 Surprisingly, actually, you will.   Gen. Shwedo 10:55 I'm embarrassed to tell you, yes, you will.   Doug Lindsay 10:59 Well, so thinking about that idea of being in the West Wing and being there and being tapped to say, hey, you're the guy, you're successful at that point at the highest levels. But at some point, there's that idea that you're the person, right, you're the one that's got to be able to speak and articulate in that way. What was that like the first time that kind of went through that?     Gen. Shwedo 11:18 It's very humbling, you know. First of all, you look down at [your] stars, you're like, where the hell did these come from? Because, because you do still feel like you're a cadet, you know, 24/7. And, honestly, when you walk into these rooms, you know the seriousness of the situation. By that time, you know most of the people around the table, and, you know, you're prepared. They will give you three-ring binders. And I tell the cadets this, I'm like, look, you know, the world is not — and we've had cadets come and they go, you know, “What's all this Hamas, and, you know, Israeli thing?” because our squadron's kind of split. And I go, guys, I go, “I know you're in an academic situation. So, you think things are either right or wrong. But the world is gray.” Talking to the cadets, oh, we went through the history of, you know, the Middle East and all that. And they're kind of drooling, because it's been 20 minutes, and I go, “By the way, that three-ring binder, that's the first tab. And if you haven't read everything in that binder, you're gonna get mauled in this situation.” And I go, you know, the next piece is, and we went back and forth where there wasn't, you know, there were so many grays associated with it, and I go, “Now, when you get up from that conference table, you're gonna walk out, and there will be people waiting to talk about the border, the Ukraine, or they're…,” you know, and it has a conga line of problems that that they deal with every day. And I go, “Oh, by the way, you better be well versed on all of those too.” And, you know, when they see that, it is that transition to, from an academic situation where it's right and wrong, to what we're going to dump them into the grays. And I think they do see, that's where some of these applicable situations that they had in Colorado Springs may come back. Once again, is it a GR quiz, OK, well, a quiz is gonna die, all right there. And I'm not too proud to tell you that speed reading is a good thing. And they will drive you from the river entrance at the Pentagon and drop you off in front of the White House. And by the way, soon as you get back from the White House, there's another meeting waiting for you on another thing that you better be prepared for. So this whole thing, there's a method, I think, to the Academy's madness, throwing all this stuff at you.   Doug Lindsay 13:39 So, you kind of come out as a military history major. So really more, here's what was done to here's what's going on to here's kind of what it looks like in the future. What do you think it was that appealed to you?   Gen. Shwedo 13:55 I was very lucky. And, you know, came out of Desert Storm, and I knew I was too dumb to get a master's on my own. So, they sent me to the Defense Intelligence Agency, and I started seeing some of the new stuff and some of the things that were in the intelligence community. So that job in the 487 Intelligence Group, I was working new bombs, missiles and PGMs. And then they go, there's this new thing, and it's going to be a Special Access Program. You're gonna get into all of those things. And I think what led me to that was I could pass a polygraph. I mean, I grew up in this little town in North Carolina. And you know, the first time I took a polygraph, they said, “Have you done drugs?” No. “Have you done drugs?” No. The guy goes, “Have you done drugs?” No. And he turns off the machine and says, “You've never done drugs.” That's because I'm from Reedsville. We'll get drugs in about 20 or 30 years. But all kidding aside that started getting me down to all the Special Access Programs and every one of them was cooler and cooler and cooler and I had a blast when I worked special programs during 9/11. And when President Bush said, “This is going to be unlike any war you've seen before. A lot of it is going to be in the shadows.” And you won't see what was being done. That's kind of where I was. And what was wonderful because there weren't very many people with those clearances. So, I would usually go straight into the chairman's office and say, “This just came in from the White House, we need to do X, Y or Z.” And he would do that. So then fast forward, we weren't talking about cyber, we just didn't talk about it. I was at the CIA. And they said, “Congratulations, you're going to be a group commander, you're going to transition an intel group into the first attack squadrons for the Air Force.” So that's how I did that. And then I stuck around to be the wing commander. But you know, that realm is just, like you said, lots of excitement, lots of new ways of thinking and doing things. So, I was very, very excited to be able to jump into that at an early age — captain. Really, I will tell you, our airmen are amazing, amazing. And when you start pitching them into a fight that they really appreciate. And sometimes, especially in cyber, when you change a one to a zero, they, the overall group doesn't know what's going on. So, I usually would charge our junior guys to do the math down range. And say, “By the way, when you turn that one to a zero, bad guy X, who wanted to blow himself up in the Mall of America is no longer with us.” And then all of a sudden, everybody walks around with a big bow chest, and they're very proud of what they do. And then it's just starts snowballing. And everybody's doing better and better things. And I tell a story often but, you know, I walked in at 3 o'clock in the morning and there was all kinds of math on … the board, and I go, what's up with all the math and he goes, “Oh, Airman so-and-so figured out how long we go to jail if we did this on the outside.” Now, of course, everybody's kidding. But I'd be you know, those are those airmen that that are just rockstars, and you're so proud to be around them. And just like I was telling you about football, I wasn't the athlete, we had a bunch of rockstars I ran around with. And it was just a lot of fun to be a part of that organization.   Doug Lindsay 17:27 You're like, tailor made for your role right now. It seems like everything kind of fit into your ability and where you're at right now to be at the IFC. So, when, you know, the folks approach you, Kaminsky and Fox, and those folks approached you, what was it about this one that really made you say, “Yeah, that's where I want to go?”   Gen. Shwedo 17:49 So, I will tell you, you know, relationships matter. And you know, we have brothers and sisters across, you know, this place. So, and you know, when you call somebody a brother or sister, you may not mean it. Most of the people I run around with really do mean it. So, I got a phone call from Gen. Clark, who was a teammate of mine. And he was also in seventh squadron with me. So, we've known each other for very long time. I was still on active duty. And he goes, “Hey, brother, I need a favor.” And I'm like, “Sure, brother, whatever you need.” Don't answer the phone like that. Doesn't work well. But all kidding aside, he, you know, he said, because he and I have known each other he goes exactly what you said, “Hey, I'm looking at all the things you did, and what they want to do. This makes all the sense in the world.” And, you know, really, the major reason I came was a brother asked me to do something, and I'd do anything for him.   Doug Lindsay 18:50 But what the IFC is doing is it's changing our mental model, right? It's out of those traditional ways. We think about academics, how we prepare leaders, we're taking a little bit of different approach there. So, what's that been like helping the Academy transition to that new mindset?   Gen. Shwedo 19:08 My focus had to be the dean. And the direction comes from the national defense strategy. So, we actually have a meeting a week with the future guys. And that gives us insight. But then going back and figuring out what we're going to put into the curriculum. We did a curriculum review as soon as we got here. And I was joking, and I said, “OK, everybody knows Word products. We're going to do a universal insert, delete, every time you see ISIS and Al Qaeda, they'll say Russia and China.” But all kidding aside, that was kind of where we started rooting out some of the problems as we did. If I'd had a dean that didn't agree or believe, we'd be done a long time ago, but she's been wonderful. Gen. Clark has been awesome, you know, facilitating all of this. And because we can go classified or do anything else, it really starts, as you said, shifting the focus. And saying there is a reason why the Air Force Academy is different than an ROTC unit or a regular, you know, OTs or whatever, we're going to ingrain that across the board. This is basically teaching them, “You're a part of a much bigger, you know, orchestration. And, boy, it's a different way of thinking, but definitely gives you insight into how to do different things, you know, thinking two or three layers above when you're just in a cockpit.” “I don't understand why I'm doing this.” But two or three layers above, “I totally get it. Now I understand it.”   Doug Lindsay 20:41 Well, and helping people see that connectedness to the larger system, right? So, it not it may seem like I'm an independent person doing this, right. But as part of that larger system and…   Gen. Shwedo 20:49 I still want you to independently be padlocked on that target and do all of that. But as opposed to grumbling, “I don't understand why I'm doing this,” or the urgency of me … doing this from the way that they're telling me…,” it totally makes larger sense, as opposed to shut up and do it. We're Americans, we challenge everything. And honestly, I think that's what gives us the advantage over China or something else. We question everything. That's not necessarily bad.   Doug Lindsay 21:18 Yeah, that's right. Within context, right? That's right. So, what's it like from a leadership standpoint? Obviously, at the highest levels, this one's a little bit different, maybe some more influence? Sure, more of those dotted lines and things? What's it been like to lead that organization through, from the beginning to where it is now, from the big idea to a concept?   Gen. Shwedo 21:40 I really am not looking to take credit for anything. So, whenever a future conflict thing comes off, we may have pulled lots of strings, but whoever's carrying it out or is involved, we try to push it, and we'll look at what they did, because that makes the better team and, you know, sometimes I wince a little bit when they go, “Well, the IFC did this.” Well, actually, a lot of people did. And when people go, “Well, you know, who is in the IFC? Who's studying under the IFC?” Well, as I said, all three mission areas. Well, when did the IFC does well, I mentioned Firstie Flag. Well, actually, that's not mine, that's the Commandant's. We've helped out. But it's common. It's an outstanding job. And I would never say, “Look at what the IFC did.” But when you look at all of these different things, where we'll bring speakers in somebody else, or will fund, you know, some conference, you know, the donors may say, “Hey, BJ, what are you doing, you know, with this money?” I can show them that it absolutely forwarded the future fight. It's giving the cadets great insight on that future fight. But somebody else may walk in and go, “But that was my conference.” And I will say you're exactly right. And we are very proud.   Doug Lindsay 22:57 Obviously, we're sending out people who are competent in certain domains as an academic institution as well. But from a leadership standpoint, where are you seeing the value of the efforts of what IFC and the larger team is doing on helping cadets understand their leadership and their role in leading that effort moving forward?   Gen. Shwedo 23:16 There's several things with that. So, the first piece is making them aware of the threat. And you know, the dean has introduced me and said, “This is BJ. Gen. Shwedo, he's making evil minds.” And I'm here to tell you that the evil minds already exist. What we gotta do is make them aware of the environment we're dumping them in. And a case in point, I have one cadet, he raises his hands like, “You know, hypersonic missiles. I don't understand what's the big deal about that.” And I go,” OK, well, first of all, yes, they're fast. But as you remember from Physics 110 a ballistic missile trajectory is all mathematics. That's how the Patriot works. Hypersonic missiles can maneuver. So, all your math is now dead.” And I go, “Oh, by the way, when you look down-range and you see all those antennas, NORAD, for the most part was looking up to the north, because the quickest way to get an ICBM to the United States was over the top. You can actually take a hypersonic missile, put it in a low earth orbit, and that attack will come out of Antarctica.” Same cadet immediately raises his hand and goes, “So the maneuvering — is that RF, command guide?” And he's immediately trying to get into it. And I'm like, I love you, man. Because, honestly, when you start making them aware of the threats, they immediately start thinking countermeasures. So, from the leadership standpoint, they understand that piece, another thing we're teaching them is, and it's a snarky way of saying it, but forget cylinders of excellence — and cylinders of excellence during the global war on terrorism. We could show up in one cylinder of excellence like I told you about the Predator, the Reaper, fire that missile, declare victory and go home. If we're going to fight a great power competition or whatever, we are going to be in that situation where we need air, land, sea, space, cyber all showing up. So, break down the cylinders. And then the last part of this great power competition: We need to keep it at competition and not get to conflict. For the most part, we've been stuck at bombs, bullets and beans in the spectrum of conflict. This is competition down here. This is conflict over here. And what we're teaching the cadets is no, you got to participate across the board. And it may be heavy, more in cyber or information operations. But you're going to use those tools all the way across the spectrum. But I really don't think our citizenry is ready for great power conflict. They're so used to us running up the score to a hundred to nothing that they don't understand what that is. And the Russians and Chinese on the competition scale, had been running unopposed because we have been padlocked on ISIS and Al Qaeda. So, we're resetting their awareness. So, when they are future leaders, they make those impacts on the lower level. So, we just like I told you at the beginning, we never got to World War III.   Doug Lindsay 26:14 A lot of impact in a short amount of time. What are you hearing, even anecdotally from them about that experience and that mindset and that ability to play at that level?   Gen. Shwedo 26:23 A kid that walks up to me goes, “Sir, I had no idea my country does this, but I want to do it really badly.” You energize that excitement, and then they come back and start telling all of these friends, I mean, you know, when I came here, I knew we were doing cool stuff, but being able to come back and see all of those things. Boy, that makes me want to study more that makes me want to get even better at whatever that buffet, right, that I want to do, it is — and it's just one more thing that energizes me to make sure that I get it right.   Doug Lindsay 26:56 When you put energized, passionate, excited cadets together, and you start talking about the ability to solve complex problems and have an influence…   Gen. Shwedo 27:05 So, I used to call them evil bar-napkins. They come up with, you know, these great ideas. And it is humbling, because they, you know, they grew up a different way than I did. That's probably a lot more applicable to that future fight. And that is why so many people come to these guys. And that's why our research department gets so much money, because they want to drag these guys in. I think we have more opportunities than we have cadets for research. Because they're so in demand, people understand how smart they are.   Doug Lindsay 27:38 If Gen. Shwedo was Cadet Shwedo going through the Academy right now, knowing what you know in terms of your trajectory and what you've learned over your time, and then knowing the opportunities that exist in the IFC, what would you tell yourself to think about as you're going through this process, if you got off the bus this summer to start all over?   Gen. Shwedo 27:59 I would look up and say, “You're very lucky. It's going to, they're going to be times it's just going to suck. You better be ready for that. But I will tell you it's worth the fight.” You know, I've seen and done very, very cool things that people will not know about for a very long time. And then the last part is because I just got off the bus and my head shaved, and I'm pissed off at everybody, “Suck it up. It's, it's worth the price of admission. But when you get out, honestly, all of this training all of this, you know, experiences preps you for those future opportunities.”   Doug Lindsay 28:35 So, Gen. Shwedo, as a student of military history, and a teacher of leadership, and there's a question that we often like to ask just based on people's experience, are, in your opinion, are leaders born or are they made?   Gen. Shwedo 28:47 You know, it's funny, I often get the question, you know, “Hey, is there a book that you really advocate for leadership?” And I just kind of smile and go, “Look, leadership,” just like I was telling you with the coaching and all that other stuff, “leadership is all about working with people. And you've got to understand people. And it's a little more work than that.” Just like you said, I need to find the positives, I need to see what you as a person excites you, what motivates you. And then when I was telling you facilitate the positives and negate the negatives, and I believe, … people are born with the capability to get to know you a lot better, but it does come back to motivating you and finding where I can put you in that situation, that you're going to excel just like we were talking about earlier, and then keep you out of those situations where you may not perform. That is kind of the one-on-one leadership. Well, it's more of a pyramid organization by design. So, you find leaders that also go along those lines and then when I have a problem, I go down that pyramid along those lines. But I think it's, it would be pretty sad if you're either a leader or not. I do believe that if you're not very good at figuring out people, etc, you can eventually learn that. But it is easier for some than others. That's kind of it. Leadership is definitely motivating people and understanding what motivates [them]. You know, Patton used to say, “I don't measure the merits of my company commanders by the calluses on their ass.” And what you are saying is, “Get out.” And you do need to get out there and you know, motivate, understand, talk to the folks and for, you know, here and everywhere else, because our airmen are so amazing. It's actually one of the best parts of the day. And some of these guys are just denying them that opportunity.   Doug Lindsay 30:53 And within the context of warfare, obviously, you've mentioned this earlier, that we've seen the world change and conflict in the 21st century doesn't take place in what we think in traditional areas, like the battlefield. So, what advice would you like to offer the generation coming up behind you and us that, who want to be warriors, that maybe want to join the Long Blue Line and, and want to become leaders for the…?   Gen. Shwedo 31:17 …Future fight? I will tell you, you know, fundamentally, as I said before, it's a lot different than global war on terrorism, and you know, some of these other pieces, but what I'm seeing, especially with technologies, is the rise of the third parties. So, when it comes to cyber, we've watched the Ukraine, where these third-party cyber gangs, are now playing. And you know, when you look at the Russian cyber capability, where the Russian government stops, and the Russian mafia begins, is not a real good, fine line. And we're seeing some of these guys pitch into the fights. When I'm talking to the cadets. I'm like, “You can ignore this, but you'll do it at your own peril.” And more disconcerting, a lot of these well-intentioned people that may think that they're helping the fight, there was one report where they had gotten into the space systems of the Russians. And they had the ability to turn off the satellites. Well, in a nuclear scenario in first strike, making your adversary blind before you do that is a precursor. And sometimes countries don't want their missiles stuck in holes. So, when they start seeing all of those warnings go, they launch in the other direction. So, these well-intentioned people could cook off a much larger campaign. So, I tell the cadets that you cannot ignore these capabilities. Another one is drones. I mean, Richard Clark, who was the previous SOCOM commander, quite rightly pointed out that a bomb has not fallen on U.S. troops since 1953. These drones that we're seeing, and, you know, they are blowing up tanks, they have pushed the Black Sea Fleet out of port. You know, we've seen all of this. And fundamentally, you're going, “Okay, how do we counter that?” And can we promise that a bomb will not fall on there with F-22s and F-35s. Back to those evil minds, they start looking on those countermeasures, but we're dumping them fundamentally in a much different environment than what their teachers fought in the global war on terrorism. So, we've got to equip them with all of those capabilities. And then the last part were those drone drivers. And the cyber folks. They may not look like a battle dress uniform, they may look, you know, like somebody, and oh, by the way, they probably can't run, you know, the 2-mile run or anything like that. But they're still effective on the battlefield. And you need to understand that when we go forward.   Doug Lindsay 33:52 You've led at different levels. You've obviously learned a lot of lessons along the way. What are some of the, maybe a couple key takeaways you've learned about leadership?   Gen. Shwedo 34:00 I think the lesson is, don't forget who you are. You know, I wasn't born a general. I very much was scrubbing toilets, you know, up on the Hill. And I think going back to don't forget who you are, and being able to, you know, hey, there were there were times when we were shoveling snow. I have learned, you know, back to getting to know that your people show up when it's crappy. Don't show up only when it is convenient for you. But you showed that hey, I love you because I'll show up. And it really is: Never forget who you are. I mean, you know, you sure as hell wouldn't get that vote when you were second lieutenant. So, it's not going to change your life too much. And I think people understand when you really care about them, you know, and if you care about them, they'll do what you know, whatever needs to be done. And the last part is my airmen used to roll their eyes. Of course, you were on the hook for the vision and for the battle plan. But as I said before, these are amazing airmen, and they will do whatever needs to be done to win that fight. But I'd often tell them when they were, you know, struggling, “Look, I work for you, I'm removing your impediments so you can do that, you know, kill the bad guys.” And you know, I've made a career out of playing practical jokes on bad guys, because these guys were really good at it. But when I'd say, “I work for you…” they roll their eyes. But eventually they understood that if there wasn't enough gas here, if there wasn't, remove those impediments, so they can do that. And so that was something that I did as a lieutenant, captain, I've been pretty good at it, you know, up to this point.   Doug Lindsay 35:38 So, and it really helps that value proposition, they feel like they really are part of a team. Now, do they matter regardless of the, of the level of the organization?   Gen. Shwedo 35:45 Absolutely. And, you know, to understand and, you know, the military, on the Army side, you know, the leaders eat last. I've got numerous Army brothers; I don't like talking about it. But all kidding aside, there's a lesson there. And you know, be humble and understand that you really do work for those guys, because they are doing the mission. And once you do that, and once they understand that they no-lie will remove those impediments and, no-lie, they do care about you, you'll be amazed what kind of feats that you'll see happen on the other end.   Doug Lindsay 36:19 Well, thank you for that. Any final thoughts or anything we didn't talk about that you want to talk about?   Gen. Shwedo 36:23 No, I can't thank you guys enough for the opportunity and, you know, asking about the Institute for Future Conflict. Honestly, everything they've done has nothing to do with me and everything to do with this command team here because they have given me all the opportunities. From Gen. Clark, the Dean, the, you know, the comm and the Department of Athletics and people kind of have a furrowed brow. Yes, we have, we have a focus on the Department of Athletics, too. So, thanks for the opportunity so I can share with you with all the great things they're doing to make our cadets ready for that future fight.   Doug Lindsay 36:55 Appreciate that. And appreciate your example and what you're doing with that. If people want to connect with you or get in touch with the IFC and find out kind of what's going on, what's the best way for them?   Gen. Shwedo 37:04 Absolutely. So, if you just Google Institute for Future Conflict, it'll come up. And then on the bottom, you'll see a couple of lieutenant's names. Luckily, and I tease them all the time — I compare and contrast me, coaching, football and teaching boxing and unarmed combat and you're getting two different worlds. But they often are the ones that we tease them and go, they're the real bosses of the IFC, they'll get back to us on what we need to do or to answer questions or anything along those lines.   Doug Lindsay 37:34 That's great. And I know that Checkpoints magazine has a three-part series that's coming out that kind of amplifies some of the people and some of the team members that you built on there that you mentioned as well today. Looking forward to that.   Gen. Shwedo 37:46 So lastly, there's not that many Shwedo's in the globe — you can find me fairly quickly.   Doug Lindsay 37:48 That's great. Well, we thank you for your time. Thank you for your legacy. Thank you for all that you're doing for the Academy.   Gen. Shwedo 37:55 Thanks for the opportunity. Thanks a lot.   KEYWORDS cadets, leadership, Air Force Academy, cyber, IFC, learned, Academy, warfare, conflict, 21st century, understand, opportunity, missiles, led, future, football, Air Force, airmen, work, leaders, studied, history, West Wing     The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association and Foundation