Manage episode 491908640 series 2821568
Former Ambassador John Gunderson shares his unique perspective on American foreign policy and the upcoming 2024 presidential election based on his service across eleven presidential administrations. Drawing from his experiences in Vietnam, as a federal air marshal, and as Ambassador to Ukraine, he offers a candid assessment of leadership, patriotism, and America's role in the world.
• Gunderson's background includes military service in Vietnam, counterterrorism work, and diplomatic posts including Ambassador to Ukraine
• How his time in Vietnam shaped his understanding of when America should and shouldn't intervene militarily abroad
• The clear distinction between supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression versus more ambiguous conflicts like Vietnam and Iraq
• Why maintaining international norms against unprovoked invasions matters to American interests
• Concerns about Donald Trump's leadership style and fitness for office from a lifelong Republican perspective
• The importance of leaders who build alliances, demonstrate loyalty, and appeal to "the better angels of our nature"
• Why voters should consider character, competence, and consistency when evaluating presidential candidates
Everyone should vote based on what represents the best of America: rule of law, caring for neighbors, maintaining alliances, and recognizing we're all Americans even when we disagree.
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Chapters
1. Beyond the Green: Diplomacy and Democracy (00:00:00)
2. Introduction to Tales from the First Tee (00:00:08)
3. John Gunderson's Diplomatic Background (00:04:18)
4. Meeting Eike and Family Life (00:10:15)
5. Vietnam Service and Lessons Learned (00:16:49)
6. Understanding Ukraine and Russian Aggression (00:24:01)
7. Trump's Leadership and National Security (00:31:33)
36 episodes