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In this engaging discussion, automotive systems engineer Florian Rode explains the complexities of software testing in vehicles, revealing how easy it is for glitches to emerge. Retired radiologist Peter Rothschild shares a chilling tale of how a software update almost sent him off a cliff in his Volvo. Together, they explore the risks of treating cars like tech products, the implications of over-the-air updates, and the urgent need for better cybersecurity standards in the automotive industry.

Stephen Vladeck, a Georgetown Law professor and national security law expert, delves into the Espionage Act's evolution from its World War I origins to its current controversial use against leakers and the press. He discusses the law's expansive reach, citing cases like the Pentagon Papers that shifted focus to insiders. Vladeck raises concerns about potential threats to journalists, the Supreme Court's silence on protections, and recent policy changes under the Trump administration that risk journalists' freedoms. He also offers practical advice for reporters navigating this precarious landscape.

Reality Winner, a former NSA contractor who infamously leaked a classified report in 2017, shares her journey in the podcast. She discusses the emotional toll of remote intelligence work and the pressures of secrecy. Winner describes her motivations behind leaking the Russia report and the naive belief that her actions would go unnoticed. With an eye on the future, she raises concerns about the Espionage Act and its implications for whistleblowers, reflecting on how her experience has altered her view of America.

Shannon Wait, a former Google data center technician turned union organizer, shares her eye-opening journey from studying Egyptology to the realm of data centers. She vividly describes the sensory chaos and pressures of working within these high-tech facilities. A simple request for a water bottle cap spiraled into a significant labor dispute, leading to her posting about pay and conditions online, which resulted in her unexpected removal from the site. Shannon's transition to union organizing highlights the complex economic landscape of data center jobs and their impact on small-town communities.

Scott Stratton Henderson, a college student from St. Charles, Missouri, spearheaded community resistance against the proposed Project Cumulus data center. He shares how he rallied locals through a Change.org petition, leading to packed council meetings and a withdrawal of the development proposal. Joined by technology policy expert Asad Ramzanali, they discuss the economic implications of such projects, highlighting concerns over water use, tax breaks, and long-term local benefits. Their story reveals the power of grassroots activism in addressing tech's impact on small towns.

Francisco Chavo Romero, a Southern California community activist with Unión del Barrio, discusses the rise of neighborhood patrols aimed at monitoring ICE activities. He explains the grassroots tools that have replaced traditional apps for tracking, driven by his Chicano heritage and commitment to protecting undocumented neighbors. Francisco shares insights into ICE's tactics, the impact of their raids, and how his organization conducts lawful observations while preparing for militarized operations. He also addresses the risks of criminalization and the importance of community solidarity.

In this enlightening discussion, guest Joshua Aaron, an app developer and tech entrepreneur behind the IceBlock alert app, shares his journey to empower communities with digital tools against ICE raids. He explains IceBlock’s innovative crowdsourcing features, designed to keep users informed without compromising data privacy. Joshua reveals the unexpected fallout from governmental scrutiny, including his wife’s firing from the DOJ, and the app's removal from major platforms. Despite setbacks, he notes how such challenges have fostered greater community resilience and activism.

Kuba Gretzky, a Polish developer, dives into the world of cybersecurity, revealing how he created Evilginx to bypass multi-factor authentication. Initially designed for good, the tool's misuse by hackers raises ethical questions. He discusses his transition from game bot creator to a sought-after security researcher, emphasizing the importance of openness in defending against cyber threats. Discover how tools intended to enhance security can sometimes backfire, turning a well-meaning project into a double-edged sword.

Erin West, a national leader in investigating cryptocurrency crimes and founder of Operation Shamrock, reveals the chilling world of scam farms. These operations, often resembling prisons, lure victims with fake job offers and exploit them under brutal conditions. Erin discusses the psychological manipulation used to control workers, the staggering financial impact on global economies, and how scams have evolved with AI. She also shares insights on how authorities are cracking down on these networks and offers tips for spotting potential trafficking risks.

Mahesh Krishnaswamy, an engineer and entrepreneur behind Taara/Terra, dives into the futuristic concept of laser-based internet. He shares his journey from experiencing limited online access in Chennai to innovating high-speed connectivity with light beams. Discover how his work at Google X shaped his vision and how Terra connections can quickly restore services after disasters, like in Puerto Rico post-Hurricane Maria. He also tackles competition challenges and shares amusing stories about wildlife causing outages. A fascinating look at bridging connectivity gaps!