Click Here

Dr. Corinne Cath, a cultural anthropologist and tech researcher at Article 19, discusses the recent Amazon Web Services outage that disrupted numerous online services. She explores the dominance of Amazon, Microsoft, and Google in cloud computing and its implications for democracy. The conversation delves into the real-world effects of cloud failures on vital sectors like healthcare and banking. Cath suggests alternatives like decentralized infrastructures and highlights the increasing political stakes tied to cloud monopolies and corporate control over online expression.

Dr. Stephen Xenakis, a retired Army brigadier general and psychiatrist, dives into the intersection of AI and mental health. He discusses how AI can analyze clinical interviews for diagnostic insights. They explore the potential of structured interviews to deepen AI's understanding of patients. Stephen highlights AI's role in aiding rural clinicians and using wearables for data-driven care. However, he emphasizes that while AI is a tool, the artistry of psychiatry remains essential, requiring human judgment to navigate the complexities of mental health.

The podcast dives into the complex relationship between AI and education. It explores how students have rapidly adopted ChatGPT for homework, sparking debates over cheating and ethical use in classrooms. Teachers share their strategies, from open conversations about AI use to strict detection methods. The discussion includes insights from students on their reliance on AI and the blurred lines of acceptable assistance. Ultimately, the need for innovative assignments and domain expertise in education emerges as a key takeaway.

In this compelling discussion, Kim Ji-min, a former North Korean IT operative and defector, shares his harrowing experiences of working under the regime's oppressive cyber operations. He reveals the strict military-like hierarchy and the psychological toll on workers, who are surveilled constantly. Bada Nam, from PS Corps, sheds light on how these workers are exploited overseas, with families held hostage to ensure compliance. The duo exposes the realities of life in dorms, the illegal nature of their tasks, and the ongoing pressures even after defection.

Paul Abbott, a longtime employee and part-owner of Knights of Old, shares gripping first-hand accounts of his company's 150-year legacy in logistics and its shocking downfall due to the Akira ransomware attack. He recounts the chilling moment staff discovered the ransomware note and the frantic response that followed. Discussing the negotiations with hackers, Abbott reveals why the company chose not to pay the multimillion-dollar ransom. The conversation dives into the devastating aftermath that led to closure and layoffs, showcasing the fragility of even the most established businesses.

Sue Gordon, former Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, brings her extensive experience in intelligence to discuss pressing national security issues. She highlights how budget cuts and outdated systems are vulnerabilities that adversaries like China and Russia exploit. Gordon also warns that an unacquainted leadership can disrupt vital infrastructure. She envisions a reevaluation of intelligence in the digital age, advocating for speed and collaboration while emphasizing the need for robust cyber policies to protect critical sectors.

Nick Lawler, head of Littleton's municipal utility, shares the real-life implications of a cyberattack from Volt Typhoon, revealing how local infrastructure can be a target. Brandon Wells, a cybersecurity expert, discusses the challenges of defending against state-sponsored hacking and the importance of federal support. Together, they highlight vulnerabilities in small-town utilities and the pressing need for better defenses. Their insights unveil the hidden battles in cyberspace and the community stakes in maintaining secure digital infrastructure.

Milo Comerford, Director of Policy and Research at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, dives deep into the rapidly evolving landscape of online extremism. He emphasizes the alarming trend of youth vulnerability due to social media's role in providing identity and belonging. Milo critiques the UK's Prevent program, urging a shift towards addressing emotional environments rather than just policing content. He advocates for designing safer platforms, engaging bystanders, and adopting a public-health approach to mitigate risks effectively.

Allison Nixon, Chief Research Officer at Unit 221B and expert in online predator networks, dives into the disturbing world of digital extremism. She highlights how groups like 764 seduce marginalized youth through emotional manipulation and economic incentives. The conversation addresses the evolution from belief-based radicalization to nihilistic violence for visibility. Nixon reveals grooming tactics like love bombing, and explains how the pandemic intensified these predatory networks, making the need for effective interventions more urgent than ever.

Kamel Ghali, a white-hat automotive hacker in Japan, dives into the alarming world where cars have transformed into high-tech computers on wheels. He shares his journey from a fateful pizza moment that sparked his interest in cybersecurity to revealing the real threats that hackers pose, like eavesdropping and data theft. Kamel explains how automotive companies are adopting cybersecurity more seriously, the risks of advanced features, and the fascinating intersection of tech and safety. His insights highlight the urgent need for robust vehicle security.