Topics & Presentations
Inspirational Leadership in Challenging Times
Learn More
Inspirational Leadership in Challenging Times
Craig spent more than 40 years in and around the military with 17 of those years as an Army General Officer or Marine Corps Senior Executive. Along the way, he picked up dozens of lessons on leadership and life—both good and bad. Hear him convey these in a compelling, inspirational, and sometimes very personal way.
Implications of a Rising China
Learn More
Implications of a Rising China
With more than a dozen years in the Pacific as a senior leader, Craig had a front row seat to China’s bullying of its neighbors. This presentation explores what is happening: geopolitically, militarily, and economically as China expands its sphere of influence. Learn about the strategic importance of the Malacca Strait, the South China Sea, the exploding growth of China's military, and their encroachment on the "second island chain" --- where the U.S. begins its day: in Guam.
Russia vs Ukraine:
Implications for NATO
Learn More
Russia vs Ukraine: Implications for NATO
The end of World War II saw an uneasy standoff between Russia and Western Europe, led by the United States. Commonly referred to as the “Cold War,” this tumultuous period lasted over forty years. The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 changed everything. Russia flirted with an uneasy democratization, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) -- Europe’s defense arm -- grew from 14 to 30 countries. Learn how Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was an outgrowth of this evolution and what it might mean for the future of both sides.
9/11: A Personal Account
Learn More
9/11: A Personal Account
Present at the Pentagon on 9/11, Craig spent the next two days helping first responders at the crash site. Returning to Hawaii three days later, he led the initiative to secure the state, an effort that received national recognition. Hear his insights into the challenges of responding to a disaster of this scale and learn more about the intended targets in Washington D.C. and the breakdown in intelligence that led to the attack.
West Point Trivia
Learn More
West Point Trivia
Many famous (and a few infamous) cadets attended the United States Military Academy at West Point. Listen to Craig reflect on some of the “lesser-known facts” about these military luminaries, stretching back to the Civil War. Interesting, educational, and fun – even if you’re not a military buff – you’ll not regret hearing this presentation. Guaranteed!
A Troubled World
and How to Respond
Learn More
A Troubled World and How to Respond
China threatens Taiwan; Russia invades Ukraine; Hamas attacks Israel; Iran stokes proxies; North Korea waits for their opportunity; and terrorists – both foreign and domestic – threaten everywhere. What to do? This presentation touches on the “compounding effect” of each of these threats and asks how we might avoid World War III – particularly when America is more divided than at any time since the Civil War.
Evolution of the U.S. Military from Vietnam to Today
Learn More
Evolution of the U.S. Military from Vietnam to Today
Craig was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1973, two years prior to the official end of the Vietnam War. His near-continuous association with the military from then until 2019 touched every service: Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Navy. Hear his reflections on that roller-coaster journey, and how the Services differ culturally.
Arsenal of Democracy
Learn More
Arsenal of Democracy
Tom Brokaw called the heroes who fought World War II “The Greatest Generation,” but their success would not have been possible without the historic mobilization of American industry. From a war-weary, isolationist country coming out of the Great Depression, hear how the buildup began – 18 months before Pearl Harbor – then sustained throughout the war, not just for American forces, but for all of the allies. Hear how the “Arsenal of Democracy” won World War II.
The 12-Day War:
Israel vs Iran
Learn More
The 12-Day War, Israel vs Iran:
Israel attacked Iran on 13 June 2025. The United States joined the effort eight days later. This presentation reviews what happened and looks forward to what it might mean for the Middle East and the rest of the world.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Success Stories
Captain Craig Poulson
Los Angeles Fire Department Leadership Academy
-
Ron Carson
CEO and Founder, Carson Group
-
Barry Wren
Group VP, Area Leader for Low Country, Suntrust Bank
LET'S TALK
Give us a little info and we'll follow up with you.
For speaking engagement inquiries and general information about the author, fill out the contact form.