The Academy's Scholar-Practitioners

Dr. Brian L. Steed brings more than 13 years of experience advising senior U.S. and international leaders, giving The Academy students direct access to insights forged at the intersection of strategy, military operations, history, and cross-cultural engagement. He spent eight and a half years living and serving abroad, including extensive work in and alongside foreign militaries.

 

At The Academy, students learn from a scholar-practitioner who does more than study conflict—he understands how senior leaders navigate it. Dr. Steed is a Professor of Military History and Teaching Team Leader at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, where he leads multidisciplinary faculty and educates mid-career military professionals preparing to operate in complex strategic environments.

 

He is also a Senior Fellow at Narrative Strategies, an esteemed member of The Academy’s Board of Advisors, and an honored Guest Lecturer at The Academy. An author, military theorist, and recognized proponent of maneuver in the narrative space, Dr. Steed examines how narratives shape the cognitive landscape, influence political and military behavior, and create strategic opportunities in competition and conflict. His work translates historical analysis into practical insight for contemporary decision-makers, helping leaders understand not merely what is happening, but why it matters and how the strategic environment can be influenced. His scholarship has produced original concepts in narrative warfare, cross-cultural competency, and the interpretation of modern conflict. He is the author of eight books, most of which apply the lessons of history to current and future strategic challenges.

 

Dr. Steed holds an interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Political Science and History from the University of Missouri–Kansas City, an M.A. in International Relations from Norwich University, and a B.A. in History from Brigham Young University.