SpyTalk

David Cenciotti, founding editor of The Aviationist, discusses the collision between a Russian warplane and a US MQ-9 drone. They also explore the transfer of MiG-29s to Ukraine, the future of hypersonic aircraft, and the potential conflict between Russia and NATO.

Loch Johnson, intelligence expert and former aide to the Church Committee, discusses oversight of intel agencies, political weaponization of intel, lack of oversight in the CIA's torture program, impact of polarization on intelligence oversight, existence of the 'deep state', flawed intelligence on Iraq's weapons of mass destruction, and CIA satellites' role in environmental monitoring.

Investigative reporter James Bamford discusses outrageous security breaches at intelligence agencies like the FBI, CIA, and NSA, highlighting stories of stolen NSA files, the ineffectiveness of oversight committees, and Israeli spying operations. He raises concerns about media portrayal and lack of attention to counterintelligence problems, emphasizing the need for better security measures and accountability within the agencies. The podcast concludes with hints at future topics and encourages listeners to subscribe.

Former top CIA officer James Lawler discusses the manipulation practiced by agent handlers, sociopathy in the CIA, recruiting foreign spies, the potential of chromosome editing as a biological weapon, priorities in response to Russia's invasion, and disrupting weapons programs and the fentanyl threat.

The hosts debate the motives behind Republican Governor Greg Abbott's actions regarding migrants. They discuss the evolution of human smuggling, the broken asylum system, and the need for comprehensive immigration reform. The podcast also explores the distinctions between human smuggling and trafficking, as well as an interview with the former head of Customs and Border Protection.

Discussing the failure of the war on drugs, the threat posed by transnational crime organizations, and the importance of effective intelligence sharing. Exploring the role of technology and data in law enforcement and intelligence agencies. Highlighting the integration of transnational organized crime into screening processes and the use of open source intelligence. Examining the potential of AI, data analytics, and federated learning in government.

Colin Clarke, an expert on Iran's capability to strike within the US, discusses recent attacks and their use of proxy relationships. FBI veteran J.J. Klaver talks about the impact ongoing attacks may have on the bureau and its work. Topics include Hezbollah cells in the US, recent events involving Sweden and Iran, and threats against the FBI. The podcast also explores President Trump's claims about the FBI and the realistic possibility of defunding the agency.

Heidi Beirich, an expert on online and real-life fallout from the Mar-a-Lago search, analyzes the similarities between domestic right-wing extremists and terrorist groups. The podcast explores the rise of extremist rhetoric and threats of violence from the far right, the parallel between right-wing extremists and ISIS in recruitment and goals, the reluctance of tech companies to combat violent incitement on their platforms, the role of government in controlling internet terrorist groups, and discusses the significance of the American assassination of al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri.

Iran expert John Krzyzaniak and former CNN Moscow bureau chief Jill Dougherty discuss the implications of Iran's new spy satellite, Russia's information clampdown, and the challenges of gathering intelligence in Russia. Topics include the capabilities of the satellite, difficulties in accessing information about Russia, potential risks of returning without protection, and the political stability of Russia.

The podcast features Stephen Braun, co-author of Merchant of Death, and journalist Jill Dougherty discussing the suspected intelligence ties of Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout. They dive into his illicit weapon dealings, connections to Russian intelligence, and his denial of such connections. The podcast also explores Russia's growing interest in Africa and the US pursuit of Bout. The episode ends with a teaser for a future episode about getting insights from inside Russia.