Army Ranger veteran James Lechner discusses his experiences in Somalia during Black Hawk Down and in Ukraine. He shares intense details of missions, survival in battles, and transition to supporting Ukrainian military. Comparisons of unity between Ukraine and the US are also explored.

Former Chief Judge James Baker and host Andy discuss national security law, Baker's journey from the Marine Corps to upholding the Constitution, the US Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, the Centaur Model balancing human-machine AI development, regulation versus innovation in AI, and navigating technological advancements in law.

Former CIA analyst John Sotos discusses Iran's goals in the Mideast, relations with the US, domestic support for the regime, and modern-day challenges since the Iranian Revolution. Topics include Iran's pursuit of regional power, internal struggles, success in regional objectives, and uncertainties facing the Islamic Republic.

Former CIA Chief of Disguise, Jonna Mendez, shares her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated agency, her unconventional journey into the CIA, and the innovative methods for secure communication used in intelligence operations.

Explore the Chief Technology Officer at the CIA, bridging tech companies with national security needs, and nurturing the next generation of tech enthusiasts

Michael and Andy speak to International Security Studies students and community members at Yale, in New Haven, Connecticut, for a special episode. Moderated by the Jackson School of Global Affairs's Ted Wittenstein, they discuss the challenges facing US intelligence agencies today including China, Russia, and the Israel-Gaza war. They also talk about what it takes to be a superior intelligence officer and analyst, and how to make national security decisions in the 21st century. 

Discussion with Hal Brands on the art of strategy throughout history, exploring US strategy towards China, proxy warfare tactics by Iran, and the global strategic vision of John Quincy Adams.

Michael and Andy visit the Washington, D.C., campus of the Texas A&M Bush School of Government and Public Service where they record a 'live' episode of the podcast with students and others. They discuss current national security threats, how the government handles classified documents, careers in the intelligence community, and artificial intelligence. 

Former CIA Moscow chief Rolf Mowatt-Larssen discusses the 'Russian mindset' and its influence on Putin's actions in Ukraine. Topics include preparing children for dangers, significance of puppet shows, lack of peace in Russia, and reasons for pessimism in the war in Ukraine.

Marc Andreessen, Silicon Valley venture capitalist and software engineer, discusses American tech innovation and its impact on national security. He explores the historical relationship between the tech industry and the federal government, the challenges of regulating biotech and AI, and the need for collaboration in facing technological disruption to national security.