Click Here

A defector from North Korea shares harrowing experiences of life within an oppressive regime and its secretive cyber army. Learn how IT workers are dispatched overseas under strict surveillance, often forced to create spyware and launder money. The emotional journey highlights the shift from seeing North Koreans as enemies to understanding them as victims. Personal stories reveal the impact of propaganda and the longing for reunification, while shedding light on the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom.

North Korea is pushing boundaries with its new artificial intelligence research center, aimed at enhancing cyber operations. Experts discuss its alarming transition from a conventional state to a criminal entity. Youth-driven hacking culture thrives despite technological shortcomings, revealing sophisticated skills. The rise of AI in their cyber strategies raises concerns about potential global ramifications. With AI-generated identities and deceptive practices in play, North Korea's cybercrime landscape poses serious national security threats.

Richard Hunter is a Bitcoin miner who returned to his Kentucky roots, lured by promises of cheap power and tax perks. He shares his journey from optimism to frustration as he navigates the challenges of setting up a mining operation. The discussion touches on the transition of Kentucky's economy, the impact on local communities, and the reality of scaling mining amid noise pollution and fluctuating Bitcoin prices. Hunter reflects on unfulfilled promises, yet manages to maintain a spark of hope for cryptocurrency's future.

Zach Hirsch, a field producer known for his insightful reporting, dives into the intriguing world of crypto mining in Eastern Kentucky. He discusses the region’s shift from coal to cryptocurrency, revealing the community's mixed feelings about this new economic opportunity. Hirsch highlights the energy demands of crypto mining and Kentucky's surprising role in the landscape after China's ban. The podcast also reflects on the historical ties to coal, showcasing the hopes and skepticism surrounding this latest extraction method.

Micah Lee, an information security engineer and investigative journalist renowned for his expertise in privacy and cryptography, dives into the alarming security issues behind the TMSGNL messaging app. Highlighting a viral photo of Mike Waltz during a Cabinet meeting, he discusses the implications of using flawed messaging services for sensitive government communications. Lee emphasizes the risk of backdoors and security vulnerabilities, urging a reevaluation of encrypted messaging practices to safeguard national security.

Jen White, the host of NPR's 1A, and Karen Moronsky-Chapman, a former employee at the U.S. Digital Service, dive into the implications of DOGE's handling of federal data. They discuss alarming privacy risks, especially related to undocumented immigrants, and how recent agreements between the IRS and ICE heighten these concerns. The discussion also explores the challenges facing the U.S. Digital Service under DOGE's influence, the need for effective government audits, and the potential for whistleblower revelations amidst escalating cybersecurity threats.

Bay Fang, President of Radio Free Asia, sheds light on the organization's crucial role in delivering uncensored news, especially in the wake of significant events like the Tiananmen Square massacre. She discusses the dangers journalists face in authoritarian regimes and the impact of U.S. policy changes on human rights in China. Fang also highlights the challenges presented by government censorship during the COVID-19 crisis and the ongoing fight for press freedom, all while sharing personal stories from the Uyghur community.

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.