SpyTalk

Former private mercenary Sean McFate discusses the Ukraine deployment of Russia's paramilitary Wagner Group, while ex-senior CIA ops officer Gregory Sims warns US security officials to expect the unexpected from Vladimir Putin, including big surprises like 9/11. They also discuss the lethal nature of the Wagner Group, the rise of mercenaries in modern warfare, potential risks for Zelensky in Ukraine, lack of weapons caches, threats to information infrastructure, and Russia's cyber threats and escalating tensions.

Former CIA officer Douglas London and former Cyber Command and NSA Chief Mike Rogers discuss covert possibilities against the Russians in Ukraine, including cyber warfare, support for Ukrainian resistance, launching opposition movements in neighboring countries, and strategies for disabling a Russian column. They also explore the current cyber activity in Ukraine and Russia, the risks of involving independent actors in cyber warfare, Ukraine's offensive and defensive cyber activities, and the potential impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on Americans.

Russian intelligence expert Filip Kovacevic profiles Putin’s spy bosses and Foreign Policy magazine correspondent Amy Mackinnon details Russian plans for Ukraine roundups and assassinations

Angela Stent, author of "Putin’s World," offers insights into Vladimir Putin's character and tactics. Lt. Col. Ron Capps captures the pain of war in his beautiful songs and stories. Topics discussed include Putin's aggressive actions, mental health in diplomatic circles, alternative therapies for veterans, and personal experiences in fictional poems and songs about the aftermath of war.

Colin Clarke discusses the Jan. 6 pipe bombs case while Jim Lawler explores the moral considerations of recruiting spies. They also delve into the Capitol storming investigation, the role of a CIA case officer, and the compromised soul of spies.

Former CIA operative John Sipher discusses US options for dealing with a potential invasion of Ukraine, while former top DHS intelligence official Brian Murphy deconstructs the Kremlin's disinformation campaign. Topics include Russian behavior, intelligence recruitment, cyber threats, manufactured tensions, Russian disinformation tactics, press responsibility, and changing strategies in disinformation campaigns.

Jason Paladino, a reporter, discusses the FBI's explanations for its Jan. 6 failures. Jeanne Meserve dives deep into the creepy Metaverse with terrorism researchers. The podcast explores the impact of the Metaverse on extremist activities, the FBI's response to the January 6 riots, and the potential risks and threats of virtual reality technology.

Retired Green Beret Col. David Maxwell discusses paramilitary options against Russian invaders in Ukraine, while former US-Iran nuclear deal negotiator Ernest Moniz offers perspective on new talks with hardliners. Topics include the role of the Green Berets in Ukraine, the mindset of Special Forces soldiers, the potential of a Russian invasion, the European response to the conflict in Ukraine, Iran's nuclear capability, challenges in Iran's nuclear program, and Israel's involvement in assassinations and sabotage in Iran.

Former top FBI counterspy Frank Figliuzzi and RAND Corp expert Scott Harold discuss foreign agents infiltrating US police, tracking China's Uighur genocide, and the need for awareness and education among officers. They highlight specific cases, methods of recruitment, and the role of the FBI. The podcast also explores the research on concentration camps in Xinjiang, China's treatment of the Uighurs, surveillance efforts, and the importance of preserving Uighur history.

Jared Holt and Joe Weisberg discuss right-wing extremism, evolving threats to American democracy, and Weisberg's journey from Cold Warrior to advocate for ending conflict with Russia. They also explore the complexity of US-Russia relations and the situation in Ukraine.