SpyTalk

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.

Olga Lautman, senior fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis and co-host of the Kremlin File podcast, discusses the internal upheaval in Ukraine due to Russian sympathizers and spies within government agencies. Topics include the firing of key officials, impact on war crime investigations, tactics of Russia, need for reforms, and safeguarding institutions against active measure campaigns.

John Taylor discusses the importance of trust in the world of espionage. August Cole talks about China's theft of military technology and the impact of technology on espionage.

Astrophysicist Shawn Usman discusses securing cislunar space. Leigh Baldwin co-wrote 'Follow The Leader', a story about a German Neo-Nazi spy working for Putin. The podcast explores the rise of Neo-Nazis in East Germany, Putin's influence on right-wing populist groups in Europe, and the potential for Nazi expansion. It also delves into extremism, foreign influence, and the disturbing implications, as well as the strategic competition in cis lunar space, the need for small satellites in Syslunner, and concerns over satellite movements beyond the Moon.

Jared Holt, an expert on right-wing extremism, discusses the evolving face of right-wing extremism and its cross fertilization with anti-vaxxers. Joe Weisberg, creator of 'The Americans,' talks about ending the Cold War with Russia, his time in the Soviet Union, and the portrayal of spies in the TV show. They also delve into the threats of right-wing extremist movements and the urgency to combat these challenges.

CIA analyst Gail Helt discusses US intelligence strengths and weaknesses. Matthew Kroenig talks about North Korea's nuclear capabilities. Discussions include the challenges of intelligence gathering and a rebuttal to criticism. The podcast also explores a day in the life of a CIA analyst and the importance of deep analysis in intelligence work. Analyzing Russia's invasion of Kiv and lessons for assessing will to fight are also explored.

Former Deputy CIA Director John McLaughlin and Middle East expert Jonathan Broder discuss a deep cover Russian spy case in Holland. They also analyze Mossad's war on Iran, including recent assassinations and a mysterious poisoning in Tehran. The podcast explores covert operations and counterintelligence, shifting dynamics in Syria, Iran's threats to Israel, frustrations among US allies, and the role of Russian illegals in espionage.

Former top CIA, Pentagon, and State Department intelligence official Carl Ford discusses the flaws and failures of the intelligence community, highlighting the neglect of specialized offices. The podcast also explores the limitations of current reporting and emphasizes the need for comprehensive research in the intelligence community. In addition, domestic extremism expert Jon Lewis delves into the rise of white supremacist violence, discussing the interconnectedness of extremist movements and their influence on mainstream Republican thinking.

Former CIA medical officer Leslie Pyenson assesses signs of Putin’s failing health. Author Jefferson Morley discusses his new book, Scorpions’ Dance: The President, the Spymaster, and Watergate. They explore Putin's health indicators, decision-making of former KGB operatives, consequences of lack of knowledge in politics, and Nixon's relationship with CIA Director Richard Helms during the Watergate scandal. They also discuss the relevance of Watergate in today's political climate and the parallels between attacks on democracy in the Nixon and Trump eras.