The Jordan Harbinger Show 339: Michele Rigby Assad | My Secret Life in the CIA
Apr 16, 2020
Michele Rigby Assad, a former CIA operative and author, shares her thrilling journey from rural Florida to the shadowy world of espionage. She reveals whether undercover work is as glamorous as portrayed in movies and discusses the challenges of building trust with intelligence sources. Michele also candidly addresses her battle with imposter syndrome and the critical skills involved in navigating dangerous environments. With insights into counterterrorism and gender dynamics in the field, her experiences paint a gripping picture of life in the CIA.
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Unusual CIA Couple
- Michele Rigby-Assad and her husband worked undercover for the CIA for 10 years.
- This was unusual, but being Arab specialists allowed them to stay together on assignments.
CIA Work Reality
- The reality of CIA work involves extensive preparation and research.
- Most of the job isn't as glamorous as portrayed in movies, with long hours spent on computers.
Life in War Zone
- Michele Rigby-Assad describes a "Groundhog Day" existence in Iraq, marked by constant tension and anxiety.
- Car bomb explosions served as a grim reminder of the daily loss of innocent lives.
