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NatSec Matters

Latest episodes

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Jul 2, 2025 • 46min

Beyond the Barrel: Dr. Karen Young

Michael talks with Dr. Karen Young, Senior Fellow at the Middle East Institute, about the potential economic ripple effects of the Israel-Iran conflict. Dr. Young explains the ‘decoupling’ of Middle Eastern conflict from global oil prices, the impact of U.S. fracking on oil supply, and the increasing efficiency of global oil usage—and why it all matters for Middle East geopolitics.
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Jun 25, 2025 • 47min

Arrows and Quivers: Dr. Tom Karako

Michael talks with Dr. Tom Karako, Director of the Missile Defense Project at CSIS, about the high-stakes missile confrontation between Israel and Iran, recorded just before the recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Tom analyzes the role of ballistic missiles in the conflict, the capabilities of Israeli and US defenses, and the strategic implications of the Trump Administration's "Golden Dome" initiative for US national security.
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Jun 25, 2025 • 59min

Special Episode: The Iranian Nuclear Gamble with Richard Nephew

Senior research scholar at Columbia University and former NSC Director for Iran Richard Nephew joins Michael for another special episode to analyze the recent US strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. Richard discusses President Trump's decision-making, the Iranian reaction, the assessed damage to the nuclear program versus potential hidden capabilities, the critical loss of IAEA access, and the fragile outlook for a lasting ceasefire.
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Jun 18, 2025 • 48min

The 'Sledgehammer' to Global Trade: Kelly Ann Shaw

Michael talks with Kelly Ann Shaw, former Deputy Assistant to the President for International Economic Affairs, about President Trump’s 'sledgehammer' approach to international trade and tariffs. Kelly Ann, who also served as Trade Counsel to the House Ways and Means Committee, explains the current state of the global "trade war," the strategic de-escalation with China on critical minerals, and the White House's broader push to rebalance trade relationships and counter what it calls unfair practices.
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Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 4min

Special Episode: The Next Move in the Iran Crisis with Richard Nephew

In this special episode, Michael talks with Iran expert Richard Nephew, who warns of impending U.S. military strikes on Iran's deeply buried nuclear facilities—a task only the American military can achieve. The former NSC official casts doubt on Israel's regime change strategy, fearing it could backfire and lead to an even more hardline Iranian government. Richard also discusses Iran's potential for escalating attacks on key shipping channels and regional energy infrastructure, risking a wider conflict, all while the hope of an international nuclear deal hangs in the balance.
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Jun 11, 2025 • 40min

The Iran Equation: Gen. Frank McKenzie

In this episode of NatSec Matters, we revisit Michael Allen's conversation with General (Ret.) Kenneth 'Frank' McKenzie, Jr., former commander of U.S. Central Command, about the evolving security challenges in the Middle East. They discuss Iran’s vulnerabilities, the impact of Israel’s military actions, and the strategic fallout from the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. General McKenzie also explores the rising threat of ISIS, the limitations of over-the-horizon operations in Afghanistan, and the critical role of U.S. partnerships in deterring global adversaries.
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Jun 4, 2025 • 43min

An Unwinnable War: Mark Montgomery

Michael Allen welcomes back RADM (Ret.) Mark Montgomery to the podcast, where he explains why—even with a ceasefire—ending the war between Russia and Ukraine could be “impossible.” He discusses the recent shifts in military gains and losses on both sides, and what it could take to change the odds in favor of either Moscow or Kyiv.
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May 28, 2025 • 55min

The Long War: Glenn Corn

Glenn Corn, a seasoned CIA executive with over 34 years in U.S. intelligence and foreign policy, discusses his recent trip to Ukraine and the fight against Russian aggression. He highlights Ukraine's resilience and the strategic use of innovative tactics like FPV drones. Corn also explores the complexities of U.S. support for Ukraine and offers insights into Trump's diplomatic maneuvers with the Kremlin. The conversation reveals the challenges of achieving a ceasefire and the broader implications for European politics amid ongoing conflict.
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May 21, 2025 • 56min

Palaces & Policy Shifts: Jeffrey Feltman

Michael Allen talks with former senior State Department official Jeffrey Feltman about President Trump's "new approach" to the Middle East following his recent trip to the Gulf. Jeffrey analyzes the President's focus on major investment deals, the evolving US positioning on Iran's nuclear program, the surprising U-turn on Syria, and how Mr. Trump's transactional style is reshaping relationships in the volatile region.
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May 14, 2025 • 47min

Beijing's Long Game: Mike Studeman

In this discussion, Mike Studeman, a retired Rear Admiral and expert on China, delves into the intricate world of U.S.-China relations and the implications of Trump's trade policies. He explores how the 'America First' stance could be leveraged by China and emphasizes Taiwan's crucial role in U.S. economic and national security. Studeman cautions against the potential consequences of neglecting Taiwan and unpacks the complexities of China's military landscape, highlighting both its strengths and vulnerabilities.

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