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Alsu Kermasheva, a courageous journalist with Radio Free Europe, shares her gripping journey from imprisonment in Russia to becoming a voice for the voiceless. She discusses the vital role of Radio Free Europe in delivering uncensored information and the perilous experiences she faced while reporting. Kermasheva also delves into the resilience found amidst authoritarian oppression, emphasizing the emotional weight of independent journalism. Her reflections on press freedom highlight the significant challenges journalists encounter today, and the urgent need for credible news sources.

Join former Deputy Commander of U.S. Cyber Command, Charlie "Tuna" Moore, as he unpacks the fast-paced world of cyber warfare. He emphasizes the urgency of quick decision-making in this realm, where military tactics can shift in milliseconds. Moore reflects on the pivotal need for a unified approach to cyber defense and the challenges faced by military leaders transitioning from traditional warfare. He also critiques the U.S. cybersecurity framework and stresses the importance of international cooperation amid rising threats.

Nick Lawler runs Littleton's Municipal Utility in Massachusetts and recently faced an alarming cyber threat from the Volt Typhoon hacking group. He recounts a surreal encounter with FBI agents during Thanksgiving, revealing deep concerns about vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure. The discussion underscores how small utilities are increasingly becoming targets for larger cyber operations. Lawler emphasizes the need for strengthened cybersecurity measures and highlights the silent yet significant risks posed by such espionage activities.

Meet Mando, a cybersecurity expert who balances his day job with nighttime investigations. He learns from an infamous hacker turned mentor, reshaping his understanding of digital justice. The show dives into China's tech surge and its implications for global power dynamics. You'll explore the nuances of cyber investigations, where collaboration uncovers criminals through digital footprints. Finally, it reveals an unlikely alliance of heroes tackling modern cyber warfare, emphasizing the importance of secrecy and skills in the digital age.

This week, how a global game of cat and mouse led to a friendship—and an unexpected redemption. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Sue Gordon, former Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, shares her insights on the pressing challenges facing the intelligence community. She emphasizes the perils of stagnation, arguing that the real danger lies in ceasing to understand emerging threats. Gordon discusses the complexities of providing tailored briefings to presidents and the need for modernizing intelligence operations amid shifting global dynamics. She advocates for enhancing cyber resilience and fostering collaboration among frontline workers to address vulnerabilities in national security.

Karen Moronsky-Chapman, a data scientist at the U.S. Digital Service, shares her shocking insights into DOGE's audits, which she describes as more of a purge than a thorough analysis. She highlights the chaos surrounding the Department of Education's FAFSA application and the pitfalls of inexperienced staff accessing sensitive government data. The discussion also uncovers critical issues with government audits and the unsettling layoffs of seasoned technologists, raising significant concerns about tech integrity and accountability in public service.

Heather Mellquist Lehto, an anthropologist advising the Vatican on AI ethics, dives into the intersection of technology and religion. She discusses how the Catholic Church historically influences the moral landscape surrounding emerging technologies. The conversation highlights Pope Francis’s Rome Call for AI Ethics, aiming for human welfare amid the AI revolution. Heather also tackles the challenges of AI regulation, the societal implications of rising tech powers, and the need for ethical guidance in an increasingly complex world.

Heather Milquist-Leto, a cultural anthropologist at Harvard Divinity School, dives into the intriguing intersection of religion and technology. She discusses how churches are utilizing AI to craft sermons and engage with new believers, prompting questions about what faith really means in an algorithm-driven landscape. The evolving relationship between AI chatbots and personal spirituality also surfaces, highlighting emotional complexities and ethical dilemmas. Milquist-Leto emphasizes the need for community engagement and deep connections in spiritual journeys, even as technology advances.

General Paul Nakasone, former NSA Director and leader at Vanderbilt University's Institute of National Security, previews a summit on modern conflict. He discusses the urgent need for collaboration between policymakers and tech experts to tackle cybersecurity threats. Nakasone emphasizes the shifting landscape of warfare, highlighting the essential roles of talent development and white hat hackers. He also delves into the impact of AI on combat and the rising threat of ransomware in rural healthcare, advocating for a united front to address these challenges.