The Trident Room Podcast

The Trident Room Podcast’s TRP Unfiltered series delivers authentic, unedited conversations by a round table of TRP hosts, students and guests on a submitted topic … In this episode, the TRP team heads inside the Trident Room to delve into the varied catalysts that can inspire life-changing events.


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The views expressed during the Trident Room Podcast are those of the hosts, and do not represent official policy of the Naval Postgraduate School, the U.S. Navy or the U.S. Department of Defense.

It’s that time of year! TRP host Cmdr. Alanna Youngblood revisits her "Histories and Hauntings" series with a two-part discussion tracing the RMS Queen Mary’s journey from luxury ocean liner to wartime troop ship to a permanently docked — and potentially haunted — Long Beach landmark. Part One details the Queen Mary’s construction, her transition into the “Grey Ghost,” and her contributions during and after World War II.

The Trident Room Podcast’s TRP Unfiltered series delivers authentic, unedited conversations by a round table of TRP hosts, students and guests on a submitted topic … In this episode, the TRP team discusses the impactful role of unconventional things in developing an optimal work-life balance.

The views expressed during the Trident Room Podcast are those of the hosts, and do not represent official policy of the Naval Postgraduate School, the U.S. Navy or the U.S. Department of Defense.

In part two of this two-part conversation, TRP host Elaura continues her conversation with U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William J. Bowers, Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, in a more personal setting. The discussion explores reading and lifelong learning, human performance, acquisition reform, developing talent, lifelong friendships in the Marine Corps, and the importance of shaping future leaders.

Join us as Lt. Gen. William J. Bowers, Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, steps into the Trident Room to discuss what makes the Marine Corps more than just military service — it’s a calling. From the "Marine mystique" that first inspired him as a student to the leaders who shaped his journey, Bowers reflects on the power of purpose, the importance of mentorship, and why every Marine's story matters.

The conversation also explores why education remains a strategic advantage for tomorrow's leaders, how young officers can prepare for increasingly complex challenges, and why curiosity, collaboration, and lifelong learning are just as essential as physical toughness. Equal parts leadership lesson and personal reflection—with a few stories about Social Distortion, surfing, and Marine Corps culture woven throughout—this first installment offers an engaging look at the people, purpose, and traditions that continue to define the Corps.