Jack Barsky Episode Tease and Spy Stories

The intelligence world is evolving rapidly. Former CIA officer Andrew Bustamante explains Cold War tech, Ukraine strategy, and global conflicts. [Pt. 1/2 — catch Pt. 2/2 here!]

Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1220

What We Discuss with Andrew Bustamante:

• Number stations are still active intelligence tools. These mysterious shortwave radio broadcasts transmitting sequences of numbers remain a viable covert communication method. Using one-time pad encryption, they allow intelligence services to send untraceable messages to operatives worldwide. The receiver is nearly impossible to identify since anyone with a cheap shortwave radio could be listening, making this Cold War technology still relevant in the digital age.
• World War III may already be underway. According to Andrew, there are currently 161 active conflict zones globally, most involving multiple countries supporting different sides through proxy warfare. This represents a fundamentally different kind of world war — not the massive conventional battles of WWII, but an interconnected web of conflicts where nations profit economically from supporting wars without direct engagement.
• Russia is winning in Ukraine. Despite Western support, Russia continues to control 17-18% of Ukrainian territory and maintains consistent progress. Putin's long-term messaging strategy has been remarkably effective, and with decreasing US support, Ukraine faces an increasingly difficult position. The conflict may ultimately result in a divided nation, with reconstruction contracts becoming the real prize for both Western and Russian interests.
• Leaving the CIA is designed to be nearly impossible. The Agency provides zero transition assistance and maintains operatives in "leave without pay" status rather than terminating them, making it easy to return but extremely difficult to move forward. Covert officers face resume gaps they cannot explain, fake work histories that don't check out, and a cover rollback process that can take years — all designed to make former officers fail and return.
• International experience creates unique opportunities and safety nets. Whether it's obtaining dual citizenship for your children, understanding how to navigate corrupt systems (like ducking into upscale hotels owned by powerful people when police hassle you), or recognizing that Americans abroad often receive preferential treatment, global exposure provides tangible advantages. Part two will explore more about modern espionage, global conflict, and what it means for the rest of us.
• And much more...

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