Delve into the intriguing world of CIA briefers as they reveal personal stories of preparing the President's Daily Brief. Experience the tension of high-stakes national security discussions and the art of balancing tough truths with effective communication. The speakers share the complexities of navigating difficult conversations with the President while managing team dynamics. Enjoy lighthearted anecdotes from White House holiday parties, showcasing the blend of serious discussions and human moments with leadership.

In this captivating discussion, former CIA officer Jonna Mendez shares her journey from secretary to Chief of Disguise. She reveals the challenges she faced in a male-dominated field and her groundbreaking work in clandestine photography. Jonna recounts thrilling tales, including a harrowing day during a weapon depot explosion. She also reminisces about an unforgettable moment demonstrating a disguise mask to President George H. W. Bush, highlighting the incredible blend of creativity and urgency in intelligence operations.

Chris Johnson, Founder and CEO of China Strategies Group, is a leading expert on U.S.-China relations. He discusses Beijing's vulnerabilities and the implications of a potential Trump presidency. Topics include the high-stakes rivalry between the U.S. and China, internal economic struggles in China, and Xi Jinping's consolidation of power. Johnson also highlights critical geopolitical flashpoints, such as Taiwan and the South China Sea, and reflects on missed diplomatic opportunities with Australia and Japan that could reshape future relations.

Michael speaks with terrorism expert and H9 Defense Founder and CEO Sara Harmouch who explores the surprising alliance between Iran and Al Qaeda, tracing their decades-long relationship and warning about the growing security threats posed by their current cooperation.

Bill Muntean, a former State Department senior advisor and expert on Antarctic geopolitics, discusses the frozen continent's role in great power competition. He details how the 1959 Antarctic Treaty helps manage tensions among nations. Bill shares insights on surprise inspections he leads to ensure compliance from Russia and China. As climate change shifts the geopolitical landscape, he debates if Antarctica can maintain its peaceful status amidst rising global pressures and economic interests.

Andy talks with Alex Wang, the founder and CEO of Scale AI, to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and its implications for national security. Forbes says Alex, at age 25, is the world's youngest self-made billionaire. He describes the three foundational pillars of AI—data, compute, and algorithms—and how advancements in each have driven recent progress. Alex discusses how AI advancement could enable adversaries to pose new threats to US national security, and the guardrails the technology may need. 

Dmitri Alperovitch, co-founder of CrowdStrike and cybersecurity expert, shares his insights on modern digital threats and geopolitical tensions. He discusses the U.S.-China rivalry and why Taiwan's significance is escalating. Alperovitch explores the evolution of cyber warfare, emphasizing AI's transformative role in both offensive and defensive strategies. He advocates for a more aggressive U.S. cybersecurity approach while highlighting the importance of collaboration between government and the private sector to safeguard critical infrastructure.

Chris Miller, an expert in international history and author of "Chip War," dives into the high-stakes world of semiconductor technology. He discusses the significance of the semiconductor supply chain's fragility and the geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China. Miller highlights Taiwan's pivotal role in chip manufacturing and the challenges facing industry giants like TSMC. He also touches on the future of AI, quantum computing, and the interconnected dynamics between technological advancements and national security.

Beth Sanner, a former CIA analyst and Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Mission Integration, dives into pressing national security challenges for the next U.S. president. She discusses the intricate relationships among Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, highlighting their potential to disrupt global stability. Sanner analyzes rising tensions in the South China Sea and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the delicate balance of military cooperation and cyber threats. Her insights illuminate the complex geopolitical landscape the next administration will navigate.

Christine Michienzi, a former Senior Technology Advisor at the Pentagon, shares her expertise on critical minerals vital for national security. She highlights vulnerabilities in U.S. supply chains for essential minerals like lithium and rare earth elements, noting China's dominance. The discussion includes strategies to enhance domestic production and international partnerships to counter geopolitical challenges. Michienzi emphasizes the urgent need for coordinated efforts to ensure a stable supply chain and safeguard national defense.