Michele Rigby Assad

Michele Rigby Assad, a former CIA operations officer specializing in counterterrorism and lie detection, shares fascinating insights from her decade-long career in the CIA. She recounts the rigorous training for high-stakes deployments and the cultural challenges she faced in the Middle East. Michele discusses the unintended consequences of U.S. de-Ba'athification in Iraq and her harrowing experience facilitating an airlift for persecuted Iraqi Christians amid the ISIS crisis. She emphasizes the importance of language and cultural understanding in intelligence work.

Michele Rigby Assad, a former CIA operative turned corporate advisor, sheds light on her unique experiences in Middle Eastern risk assessment. She discusses the challenges multinational corporations face in conflict zones and the critical need for cultural understanding. Michele introduces her 'Get Off the X' mindset, which emphasizes strategic disengagement from harmful situations. Additionally, she reflects on intelligence failures and advocates for grassroots insights in decision-making. Her insights are a treasure trove for anyone navigating geopolitical risks.

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.