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
Aug 21, 2024 • 39min
Dismantling the Khan Nuclear Network: Jim Lawler
Jim Lawler, a former CIA operative, shares gripping tales from his days dismantling the notorious A.Q. Khan network, infamous for its role in global nuclear proliferation. He unveils the complexities of international espionage and negotiations that led to the disarmament of Libya. Lawler discusses the implications of Khan’s actions on world security and offers insights into the psychological nuances of recruiting spies. His experiences highlight the challenges and strategies vital for tackling nuclear threats and securing our future.
Aug 14, 2024 • 39min
Keeping AI in Check: Mary Ellen Callahan
Mary Ellen Callahan, Assistant Secretary for the DHS's Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office, discusses the risks AI poses to national security. She shares insights from a recent DHS report focusing on AI's dual nature in addressing and amplifying threats in chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear domains. Emphasizing collaboration, she highlights the need for safety standards and community involvement in technology. Global cooperation is crucial, and adaptive regulations are necessary to manage AI's evolving challenges effectively.
Aug 7, 2024 • 47min
Venezuela's Presidential Election: Pedro Burelli
Pedro Burelli, a seasoned expert on Latin America and Venezuela, offers a captivating dive into the country's tumultuous political landscape. He dissects the disputed July 28 presidential election, where Maduro's claims of victory clash with opposition results. Burelli provides historical insights into Venezuela's alarming transition to a 'mafia state' under previous regimes. He also emphasizes how stability in Venezuela is crucial for U.S. interests, touching on the intertwined issues of organized crime, oil politics, and international relations.
Jul 31, 2024 • 42min
How China Views a Possible Harris Administration & Unpacking July's CCP Meeting: Chris Johnson
Chris Johnson, a former CIA senior China analyst and a CSIS Senior Fellow, shares his insights on China's political landscape and economic challenges. He analyzes the outcomes from the recent CCP plenum, emphasizing Beijing's focus on state-led tech over market reforms. Johnson discusses China's view on the U.S. political scene, particularly regarding a potential Harris administration. He also highlights the country's struggles with overcapacity, demographic decline, and the impact of U.S. sanctions on its tech ambitions.
Jul 24, 2024 • 43min
Update on Ukraine War: Andrea Kendall-Taylor
Former CIA analyst and CNAS Senior Fellow, Andrea Kendall-Taylor, discusses Russia's war on Ukraine and potential U.S. support under a President Harris. Topics include NATO support for Ukraine, Russia's objectives, Putin's motivations, and NATO's role in assisting Ukraine.
Jul 17, 2024 • 51min
China's 'Princeling' & the CCP: Chun Han Wong
Chun Han Wong, a Wall Street Journal Reporter covering Chinese politics, discusses Xi Jinping's leadership and China's Communist Party influence. He explores China's foreign policy adjustments amid economic challenges, risks in its path to superpower status, and the China-Russia geopolitical relationship. Wong provides insights on elite politics, Xi's centralization of power, and China's assertive stance on Taiwan.
Jul 11, 2024 • 42min
North Korea: Sydney Seiler
Sydney Seiler, a top North Korea expert, discusses the recent Russia-North Korea treaty and provocations on the Korean Peninsula. They emphasize the importance of expertise in U.S.-North Korea relationship dynamics and the need for skilled government workforce. The podcast also analyzes the Russian-North Korean security agreement's implications and explores foreign policy nuances and North Korean provocation scenarios.
Jul 3, 2024 • 44min
Signals Intelligence & Cybersecurity: George Barnes
Former NSA Deputy Director, George Barnes, discusses NSA missions in signals intelligence and cybersecurity, adapting to strategic challenges like China and Russia. He shares insights on quantum computing, AI, and recruiting skilled workers for the agency.
Jun 26, 2024 • 35min
'Chilling' Pre-911 video & the threat lanscape: Michael & Andy
Andy talks with Michael about his June Foreign Affairs article, "The Terrorism Warning Lights Are Blinking Red Again: Echoes of the Run-Up to 9/11," co-written with Graham Allison. Michael discusses the pre-9/11 threat and national security parallels with today's environment. He also shares his assessment of a newly unsealed 1999 video from Saudi intelligence officer Omar al-Bayoumi, which Michael says appears to be 'casing' footage of the US Capitol. Additionally, Michael talks with Andy about the security vulnerabilities at the US-Mexico border.
Jun 19, 2024 • 42min
Briefing the President: Michael & Andy
Former daily intelligence briefers for President George W. Bush, Michael and Andy, discuss their experiences and challenges inside the Oval Office. They share insights on briefing the President, delivering difficult news, providing feedback to senior officials, and the dynamics of effective intelligence briefings. The episode also includes personal anecdotes of interactions at the White House.
