
Ken Dekleva
Former physician-diplomat with the U.S. State Department and a Professor of Psychiatry at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He is also a senior fellow at the George H. W. Bush Foundation for U.S.-China Relations.
Best podcasts with Ken Dekleva
Ranked by the Snipd community

Jul 20, 2025 • 3h 10min
#321 - Kim Jong Un Psychological Profiler on China & Most DISTURBING Patient | Ken Dekleva
In this discussion, Ken Dekleva, a former physician-diplomat and psychiatry professor, shares fascinating insights from his unique career. He explores the psychological nuances of treating inmates and delves into the chilling realities faced by mental health professionals in prison settings. Ken also discusses the complexities of dealing with authoritarian leaders like Putin and Xi Jinping, underscoring how their life experiences shape their decisions. The conversation highlights the delicate interplay between diplomacy and psychology, making for an engaging and thought-provoking dialogue.

Nov 3, 2024 • 39min
FTS: The Inside Story of How Spy Agencies Profile World Leaders
Dr. Ken Dekleva, a psychiatrist and regional medical officer for the U.S. Department of State, reveals the art of leadership profiling for major world leaders like Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin. The conversation dives into the psychological traits that influence their decision-making, shaping U.S. foreign policy during crises. Ken discusses the importance of mental health in high-pressure diplomatic roles and shares insights from his novel about a North Korean violinist caught in political upheaval, offering a unique perspective on espionage and empathy.