NatSec Matters

Beth Sanner, former CIA analyst, discusses the Israel-Gaza conflict, complexities in the Middle East, rebuilding Gaza, deterrence strategies between Iran and Israel, personal growth reflections, her journey to leadership in the intelligence community, the Ukraine-Russia conflict, and US credibility in global relations.

Retired FBI Special Agent Peter Lapp discusses 'Queen of Cuba', a book detailing Ana Montes, a spy for Cuba for 17 years. They delve into Montes's audacious activities, her arrest post 9/11, and her current whereabouts, exploring the challenges of investigating a female high-performing spy and her unconventional espionage methods.

Former CIA Center for Cyber Intelligence Director Andrew Boyd discusses cyber threats from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and ransomware groups. Topics include US cybersecurity strategy, partnerships with private sector, challenges of AI, and the evolving cyber threat landscape.

Michael talks to Former Assistant Director of CIA for South and Central Asia Dave Pitts about the threat of ISIS-K. Before retiring in October, Pitts was among the last American officials on the ground during the US withdrawal from Afghstanistan in August 2021. He discusses the growing threat of ISIS-K, which has been operating in the country, and around the region. Michael and Dave also reflect on the state of Al-Qaeda. 

Michael and Andy discuss the 2024 worldwide threat report, focusing on issues like space, ISIS-K, Iran, and China. They analyze the implications on global security, including China's advancements in space tech and cyber capabilities. The podcast dives into the fragility of the global order, US soft power, and the importance of understanding adversaries' perceptions for effective policymaking.

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