NatSec Matters
Beacon Global Strategies LLC
Formerly known as Intelligence Matters, the NatSec Matters podcast features former senior national security officials Michael Allen, Jeremy Bash, and Andrew Shapiro as they interview top leaders in national security, including intelligence officers, military leaders, and policymakers, on the most critical security challenges of our time. Their interviews offer insights into the world's most pressing problems and assess the effectiveness of U.S. policy responses. They also explore the biographies and careers of individuals who have devoted their lives to protecting our nation, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the inner workings of national security decision-making. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please email our team at bgs@bgsdc.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
Jan 24, 2024 • 44min
Chinese Cognitive Warfare: Josh Baughman
Josh Baughman, analyst at the China Aerospace Studies Institute at Air University, discusses China's cognitive warfare program, including social media tactics, control of public opinion in China through WeChat, the power of language for shaping narratives, and the role of emerging technologies in cognitive warfare.
8 snips
Jan 17, 2024 • 39min
Targeting a Nuclear Smuggler: Jim Lawler
Former Chief of the CIA's Counterproliferation Division's Special Activities Unit, Jim Lawler, discusses targeting the 'Father of Pakistan's Nuclear Program' Abdul Qadeer Khan. He also talks about his espionage novels and the challenges of dealing with non-state worldwide networks. The podcast explores the life and actions of nuclear smuggler Akukan, Khan's influence in Pakistan, unraveling Khan's nuclear network, and the role of human intelligence in the modern era.
Jan 9, 2024 • 42min
Taiwan: Bonnie Glaser
Taiwan expert Bonnie Glaser discusses the upcoming presidential election in Taiwan, including the candidates and polling trends. They also explore the impact of US tax regulatory issues on Taiwan and the implications of the election on cross-strait relations. The chapter concludes with a discussion on deterrence strategies to protect Taiwan from China and encourages listener engagement.
Jan 3, 2024 • 56min
The Year of Living Dangerously: Michael Allen
Michael Allen, Managing Director at Beacon Global Strategies, interviews Michael Morel and Andy McCreitas as they discuss their predictions for national security and intelligence in 2024. They cover potential risks in 2024, Israeli-Hamas conflict, speculation on a coordinated attack involving Iran, US policy towards Iran, and growing tensions between China and the United States.
Dec 27, 2023 • 45min
Artificial Ingelligence: Klon Kitchen
Klon Kitchen from Beacon Global Strategies discusses the implications of AI for national security, including the recent Executive Order on AI. They explore the history and advancements of AI, the role of red teaming in identifying threats, and the importance of diversity. The chapter also emphasizes responsibility and diligence in deploying AI models to avoid potential consequences.
Dec 20, 2023 • 50min
The Evolution of Warfare: Gen. David Petraeus
Andrew talks with Gen. David Petraeus about his new book "Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine" which was co-authored with acclaimed military historian Andrew Roberts. Andrew and the former CIA Director discuss decades of U.S. military strategy, China, Iraq, Afghanistan, Ukraine, and the Israel-Gaza War.
Dec 13, 2023 • 59min
Advising the President: Former National Security Advisors Tom Donilon & Steve Hadley
Former White House National Security Advisors Tom Donilon and Steve Hadley discuss the advisory process, the Israel-Gaza War, China and Russia, and 21st century challenges to intelligence and national security.
Dec 6, 2023 • 44min
FISA Section 702: White House Advisor Josh Geltzer Returns
Deputy Assistant to the President & White House Deputy Homeland Security Advisor Josh Geltzer returns to Intelligence Matters to discuss with Michael the urgent need for Congress to reauthorize FISA Section 702, before it's due to sunset at the end of the month.
Nov 29, 2023 • 43min
'By All Means Available': Inside the CIA & Special Ops with Mike Vickers
Mike Vickers, former Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, talks about his career in the intelligence community and special operations. He discusses his journey from being a Special Forces soldier to a national security policy maker. He highlights his experiences as a CIA operations officer during the invasion of Grenada and the role of the Soviet defeat in Afghanistan in the collapse of the Soviet Union. He also reflects on a career decision and discusses the rebuilding of al-Qaeda after 9/11 and the shift in strategies.
Nov 22, 2023 • 41min
Geospatial Intelligence: NGA Director Vice Admiral Frank "Trey" Whitworth
Michael speaks with the Director of the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency Vice Admiral Frank "Trey" Whitworth. They discuss new technologies in satellite imagery and data analysis, careers at NGA, and the vital roles officers at NGA serve in protecting the United States.
