Robert Gates
Former Secretary of Defense for two presidents and former director of the CIA. Shared his perspective on current global issues.
Best podcasts with Robert Gates
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Jul 21, 2025 • 28min
What Worries Former Pentagon Chief Robert Gates
Robert Gates, former Secretary of Defense and CIA director, offers his insights on today’s global challenges. He discusses the perilous state of international relations, especially regarding nuclear powers in Asia and Europe. Gates emphasizes the need for urgent reforms to address domestic divisions and security threats. He critically analyzes the limitations of military action in Iran and underscores the complexities of the Ukraine conflict. His thoughts on U.S.-China tensions highlight the necessity of open dialogue to avert future conflicts.
Dec 17, 2024 • 1h 4min
From the Vault: “The 75th Anniversary of the CIA” – with former Director Robert Gates
Robert Gates, a former CIA Director and Secretary of Defense, shares his remarkable journey from an entry-level employee to the head of the agency. He reflects on the CIA's 75th anniversary, discussing its strengths, weaknesses, and the challenges posed by today's complex global environment. Gates offers insights into leadership lessons drawn from historical figures like Richard Helms and the CIA's evolution post-Cold War. He emphasizes the significance of independent intelligence in navigating future global threats, intertwined with personal anecdotes from his storied career.
