
Tim Weiner
Author and journalist who has been covering the CIA for over three decades. He is the author of "The Mission: The CIA in the 21st Century" and "Legacy of Ashes."
Top 10 podcasts with Tim Weiner
Ranked by the Snipd community

Aug 27, 2025 • 38min
The CIA in the 21st Century
Tim Weiner, an acclaimed author and journalist with over three decades of experience covering the CIA, delves into the agency's complex evolution in the 21st century. He discusses the challenges of intelligence gathering, particularly in relation to China and Russia, and reflects on significant historical blunders like the Iraq War. Weiner addresses the balancing act between immediate action and strategic foresight in high-stakes scenarios. He also explores the shifting relationship between the CIA and FBI and contemplates the agency's direction under current political pressures.

Aug 15, 2025 • 50min
UNPAYWALLED: CIA GETS CAUGHT Spying on the Senate During Torture Investigation
Tim Weiner, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, discusses his extensive coverage of the CIA and shares insights from his book, The Mission, which offers a unique on-the-record history of the agency. He delves into the CIA's controversial actions during the post-9/11 era, particularly its role in torture investigations and its troubling interactions with Senate leaders. Weiner also critiques the agency’s influence on U.S. foreign policy, especially regarding the Middle East, and emphasizes the importance of accountability and civil liberties in the face of unchecked power.

Aug 11, 2025 • 2h 8min
America’s Cold Civil War + Trump Is DECIMATING American National Security
Pulitzer Prize-winning author and intelligence expert Tim Weiner discusses the grave implications of Trump's foreign policy decisions, particularly his proposed summit with Putin and its potential risks to Ukraine's sovereignty. He critiques Trump's appointments within the national security apparatus, highlighting concerns about political bias that could endanger democratic institutions. Weiner warns that the current political climate resembles a cold civil war, jeopardizing constitutional governance and fostering misinformation that undermines public trust in key agencies.

Aug 1, 2025 • 17min
New books by Irene Vega, Tim Weiner chronicle changes to federal agencies under Trump
Tim Weiner, a notable author and expert on intelligence, provides sharp insights into the CIA's evolution during Trump's presidency. He discusses the agency's technological challenges and the effects of an ideological purge. Alongside Irene Vega, who interviewed nearly 90 ICE agents, they explore the intense moral dilemmas faced by these agents as they navigate personal backgrounds and professional responsibilities. The conversation also addresses broader implications for immigration enforcement and the changing landscape of espionage.

Jul 30, 2025 • 39min
Need to Know: The Mission: A Vital Look at an Intel Community Adrift
Tim Weiner, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author, dives into the dramatic evolution of the CIA and U.S. intelligence in the 21st century. He discusses how the agency has struggled to adapt amid political pressures, especially post-9/11 and during the Trump era. Weiner highlights concerning cuts to intelligence capabilities and the risks of losing experienced personnel. The conversation also touches on the vital role literature plays in understanding these complex issues, urging listeners to stay engaged with the challenges facing democracy.

Jul 11, 2025 • 36min
Watch the Spies – Can the CIA survive Trump?
Tim Weiner, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and national security correspondent, delves into the complex history of the CIA, revealing its controversial methods and challenges following 9/11. He discusses the agency's evolving role and how political dynamics during the Trump era have impacted its operations. Weiner explores the threat of autocracy to intelligence integrity and underscores the delicate balance between governance and respect for national security. His insights raise pivotal questions about the future of American intelligence in a politically charged landscape.

Jul 10, 2025 • 59min
Erdoğan’s crackdown on his political opponents intensifies
Jared Melson, a Middle East correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, joins forces with Navina Koutour, Monocle's Nairobi correspondent, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tim Weiner, and retail expert Rebecca Tay. They dive into Erdoğan's escalating repression of the Turkish opposition amid calls for early elections. Melson highlights recent arrests of mayors and the wider implications for democracy, while Weiner critiques contemporary CIA operations. Together, they explore the economic chaos enveloping Turkey and the ripple effects on Europe.

Apr 11, 2025 • 34min
Insanity Claws
Tim Weiner, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and expert on U.S. intelligence, delves into the chaotic landscape of national security under the Trump administration. He highlights alarming scandals, including 'Signalgate', revealing how political agendas are reshaping intelligence operations. The conversation also critiques the politicization of the CIA, emphasizing the risks to national security amid evolving leadership dynamics. Weiner discusses the ethical dilemmas faced by CIA officials and teases insights from his forthcoming book, which promises to shed light on pivotal historical events.

Dec 23, 2024 • 46min
Rick Wilson & Tim Weiner
Rick Wilson, founder of The Lincoln Project, provides sharp commentary on Trump facing his own political adversities. Tim Weiner, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and expert on the CIA and FBI, discusses the dangerous implications of a weaponized FBI. The conversation also covers chaotic dynamics in Trump's administration, eerie parallels to Nixon's tactics, and the need for accountability in Congress amidst rising ethical concerns. Humor and serious analysis intertwine, providing a thought-provoking look at America's political landscape.

Apr 7, 2022 • 51min
Covert Actions: Russia and China
Intelligence historian Tim Weiner and Chinese espionage expert Nicholas Eftimiades discuss CIA ops against Russia, Chinese covert campaigns against US dissidents, KGB infiltration and deception, challenges in obtaining truthful information in present-day Russia, China's Operation Fox Hunt, China's global threats and repression, and Chinese harassment of dissidents in the US.