State Secrets

The Cipher Brief has been honored to support a number of non-profit organizations over the years that have made giving back their mission – especially in the national security world. In this episode of State Secrets, we're welcoming David Kramer, a self-described 'regular guy who wanted to give back' and Jeremy Morton, a former special operations operator who has done some pretty impressive stuff during his time in the military – to talk about how they're giving back via a non-profit called SOC-F.

Cipher Brief Expert and former Senior CIA Officer Glenn Corn is asking the questions of former Governor James Gilmore as this week's guest host. Gilmore served as Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe under the first Trump Administration and says it's critical that Ukraine wins this war.

Gilman Louie, co-founder of America's Frontier Fund and national security veteran, shares his unconventional journey in defense. He highlights the urgent need for the U.S. to enhance its protective measures against technological competition, particularly with China. Louie discusses the challenges in adapting defense strategies to modern warfare, the importance of innovation and collaboration with the private sector, and the pressing global threats reminiscent of historical crises. His insights shed light on the political intricacies and necessary reforms in national security.

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.