The Truth of the Matter

Seth Jones, a defense and national security expert, and Eric Edelman, a former U.S. Ambassador with rich experience in international relations, delve into vital national defense strategies. They discuss the recent bipartisan report to Congress and the pressing need to tackle threats from China and Russia. The duo emphasizes the importance of strengthening alliances and rethinking military procurement strategies to enhance U.S. capabilities. They also touch on the critical necessity for timely defense funding and greater awareness among lawmakers regarding national security issues.

Norm Rule, a former CIA officer with 34 years of expertise in Middle Eastern affairs, provides keen insights into the complex geopolitical landscape of Iran and its responses to recent tensions. He discusses Iran's strategic military maneuvers in retaliation for Ismail Haniyeh’s assassination, highlighting the significant role of proxies and the implications for Israel. Rule also dives into the shifting dynamics within Hamas leadership and the ongoing humanitarian crises affecting Lebanon, underscoring the daunting challenges of achieving diplomatic resolutions in this volatile region.

Frank McCourt, chairman of McCourt Global and founder of Project Liberty, joins the podcast to discuss his new book, Our Biggest Fight: Reclaiming Liberty, Humanity, and Dignity in the Digital Age, as well as Project Liberty’s mission and the evolution of the internet.

Livia Shmavonian, Director of OMB’s Made in America Office, Heather Boushey, Chief Economist of the Investing in America Cabinet, and Navin Girishankar, President of CSIS’s Economic Security and Technology Department, delve into the vital Made in America Initiative. They discuss strategies for rebuilding the economy and boosting domestic production, emphasizing infrastructure, job growth, and federal investments. The trio highlights the synergy between workforce development and manufacturing, while stressing the importance of fair competition and global partnerships in fostering economic resilience.

Former CIA officer Norman Roule discusses Iran's recent elections, potential threats in Africa, and Houthi activities in the Red Sea. Topics include Iran's stability, influence in Africa, Houthi attacks on shipping, Gaza ceasefire negotiations, and Hamas's military strategies.

CSIS's Max Bergmann joins the podcast to discuss the main goals of the upcoming NATO summit in Washington, Finland and Sweden joining the alliance, NATO's role in Ukraine, and more.

Former White House adviser and U.S. Ambassador to the European Union, Stuart E. Eizenstat talks about successful American diplomacy strategies, bipartisanship, addressing anti-Semitism, challenges in the Middle East, tensions between Taiwan and China, and favorite interviews with prominent figures.

In a crossover episode with It's More Than Grit, a new podcast from CSIS, Linda Rottenberg, Co-founder and CEO of Endeavor, joins Mariana Campero and Andrew for a discussion on Linda’s journey to Endeavor. She highlights the qualities of a good entrepreneur and the regions she is most optimistic about. As a leader of the global entrepreneurship movement, Linda also shares advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.Linda Rottenberg is one of the world’s premier voices on global entrepreneurship, technology, and business transformation. As Co-founder and CEO of Endeavor, Linda helms the leading global community of, by, and for entrepreneurs. Endeavor selects, supports, and invests in founders across 40 countries. Linda also serves as President of Endeavor Catalyst, the rules-based investment arm of Endeavor, with $500M in AUM.

CSIS’s Victor Cha joins the podcast to discuss Vladimir Putin’s visit to Pyongyang and why he believes the “Mutual Defense Treaty” agreed to by Russia and North Korea is the greatest threat to U.S. national security since the Korean War. Also discussed—what this means for the U.S. and its allies and how it impacts China.

New York Times global economic correspondent Peter S. Goodman discusses the global supply chain crisis, delving into shortages, disruptions, and monopoly power. The podcast also explores challenges in long-haul trucking and strategies employed by companies to navigate supply chain issues. Additionally, it highlights India's potential as a key player in the global supply chain market.