State Secrets

Beijing is building its largest military since the 1930s and Matt Pottinger and his colleagues at Stanford are deeply concerned. First as a former journalist, and then as former Deputy National Security Advisor in the first Trump Administration, Pottinger has been watching what Chinese President Xi Jinping both says and does - for decades. He explains to The Cipher Brief’s State Secrets Podcast host Suzanne Kelly why those two things are making it very clear that China is on a collision course with the U.S.

Steve Blank, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur and Stanford professor, shares insights on the national security crises faced by large organizations like the Pentagon. He discusses the need for strategic innovation to address challenges in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Taiwan. Blank highlights the resistance to change within military bureaucracies, emphasizing the integration of modern technologies from the commercial sector. He advocates for urgent reforms in national security practices to adapt to evolving threats and suggests leveraging successful business models to drive transformation.

The Defense Counterintelligence & Security Agency touches more than 90% of the personnel security background checks that help determine whether a job candidate receives a security clearance.  But the agency has other missions as well, all focused on enhancing national security.  State Secrets podcast host Suzanne Kelly talks with Director David Cattler about the agency’s responsibilities, about just how long it takes to get a clearance, the challenges associated with clearing a workforce and about whether that marijuana you once tried really is a dealbreaker (we couldn’t resist the urge to ask).

The podcast delves into the aftermath of a devastating Israeli airstrike, raising questions about military strategy and civilian safety. Analysts share contrasting views on military operations in Gaza, exploring the complexities of urban warfare. It highlights Israel's efforts to minimize civilian casualties while examining the legal implications of military actions. The discussion also covers proactive measures to communicate risks to civilians and the ethical challenges of establishing safe zones amid conflict. The episode reveals critical insights into the dynamics of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

General Jack Keane, a retired general and national security expert, discusses pressing threats facing the U.S. from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. He emphasizes the need for Americans to unite, reminiscent of WWII strategies, to bolster national security. Keane highlights alarming unpreparedness for global conflict and calls for reforms in the Department of Defense. He stresses the importance of public education on national security threats and the role unbiased information plays in keeping citizens informed and engaged.

In this episode of the State Secrets Podcast, Brad Christian interviews Mike Vigil, a former DEA Chief of International Operations, about the recent arrest of Ismael Zambada, co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel, and the implications for the drug trade and US-Mexico relations. They discuss the background of Zambada and the Sinaloa Cartel, the timing of the arrest, the role of fentanyl in the drug trade, and the challenges of combating the cartels. Vigil emphasizes the need for public awareness and education about the dangers of illegal drugs, as well as a comprehensive strategy involving cooperation between the US and Mexico.

Christine Abizaid, who has served as director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) for the past three years, sits down with State Secrets Podcast host Suzanne Kelly to talk about how the threat of terrorism has changed dramatically over the years and why the threat to Americans is still very real.

In this sponsored episode of the State Secrets podcast, host Suzanne Kelly talks with Sujit Raman, Chief Legal Officer at TRM Labs about how the private sector is working with government to address some of today’s most pressing national security challenges and how professionals like Raman, who also served as Associate Deputy Attorney General at the Department of Justice, are helping bridge gaps between government and the private sector.

Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges (Ret.), former Commanding General of the U.S. Army Europe, shares insights on the NATO Summit's significance regarding Ukraine and Russia. He discusses President Zelensky's aspirations for support and emphasizes Europe's urgent need for unity to confront threats effectively. Hodges warns that Putin's true power lies in his ability to instill fear in the West, impacting decisions on military actions. The conversation also touches on the interconnected risks posed by China and the importance of a strong NATO presence in Eastern Europe.

Chip Usher, a former CIA executive, discusses the intersection of technology and intelligence in a bipartisan project. Topics include leveraging AI in intel operations, utilizing commercial data for national security, and navigating tech urgency amidst global competition.