Above Average Intelligence

Election Eve Special - A Discussion with Investigative Journalist Michael Weiss Nov 04, 2024

On the eve of the most consequential election of our lifetime, renowned investigative journalist Michael Weiss (@Michaelweiss) joins Marc (@mpolymer) to discuss the national security arena from Ukraine to the Middle East. What are the effects on Ukraine of a Harris or Trump victory? What is Biden’s overall legacy on Ukraine? Is Biden the most pro-Israel president in US history? Plus Michael’s new pup Humphrey makes his first on air appearance. Can’t miss episode as the world watches.

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Israel Responds to Iran - So Now What Comes Next in the Middle East? Oct 29, 2024

Veteran national security journalist Nancy Youseff (@nancyayouseff) joins Marc to discuss Israel’s strike on Iran, what Iran may do next, the plight of the hostages, and how covering decades of wars in the Middle East shapes one’s views on the current conflict. Plus a discussion of the Arab street, and how the region is changing. With amazing bonus content on Nancy’s journey as an Arab-American female journalist, and her covering the Arab spring. A can’t miss episode with one of the leading national security experts of our time.

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A Chat With "Poet Laureate" of the CIA Ops Office Cadre, David McCloskey Oct 23, 2024

“Everyday is a three legged stool of fear, joy and self-loathing:” our favorite espionage author David McCloskey (Twitter: @mccloskeybooks) joins Marc to discuss his new book “The Seventh Floor” and the painful yet rewarding process of writing a best selling novel. Plus, CIA pranks, friendships forged in training, tradecraft that is (almost) real, and more on our favorite case officer, Artemis Proctor. And finally, woe to David’s Cleveland Indians.

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Sinwar is Dead: An Emergency Episode with Former CIA and DoD Senior Cfficial Mick Mulroy Oct 17, 2024

Former CIA paramilitary officer, station chief, and senior DoD official Mick Mulroy joins Marc to discuss the demise of Hamas leader Yayah Sinwar. Responsible for the death of 46 Americans, Sinwar’s death will be celebrated by the US counterterrorism community. Will this energize the now stalled hostage negotiations? And bonus content on a string of US intelligence community analytic failures, and what to do to rectify both shortfalls in analysis and collection. Must listen to episode on this dramatic day.

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Witnessing the Demise of Iran’s Proxies in Real Time: A Conversation with Renowned Terrorism Expert Matt Levitt Oct 10, 2024

Former USG Intel analyst and current Washington Institute for Near East Policy senior official Matthew Levitt (@Levitt_Matt) joins Marc to discuss an extraordinary several weeks in the region. From Israel conducting “open heart surgery” on Hizballah, a Gaza with a significantly reduced Hamas but no “day after" plan, to what to do about the burgeoning Iranian nuclear program, Matt’s views are essential to assessing the CT landscape in the Middle East and ultimately unpacking the policy challenges for both the US and Israel.

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A Deep Dive into Life, Journalism, and Conflict Zones with National Security Reporter Sasha Ingber Oct 07, 2024

National security correspondent and HUMINT Substack author Sasha Ingber @SashaIngber joins Marc to cover today’s foreign policy challenges from the Middle East to Europe. Additionally, Sasha discusses her entry into journalism and pivot towards the national security beat, as well as her experiences and pressures as a reporter covering conflict zones. Members will also get to hear an after action report from Sasha’s trip to Ukraine as well as a deeply moving story of veteran suicide after the fall of Kabul. Must listen to episode with a rising star in the national security beat

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From the Streets of Philly to the Halls of the DOJ With Award-Winning National Security Journalist Ken Dilanian Sep 30, 2024

On today’s episode of Above Average Intelligence, Marc is joined by longtime friend, award-winning national security journalist, and current justice and intelligence correspondent for NBC News Ken Dilanian. Ken offers insight into both his former roles on the intelligence beat as well as his current experiences covering the DOJ, in addition to his analysis of navigating the fine lines between the media, the government, and foreign interference.

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Across the Pond with Professor and former Intelligence Officer David Gioe Sep 23, 2024

On today’s episode of Above Average Intelligence, David Gioe @GioeINT, former CIA officer and current British Academy Global Professor of Intelligence and International Security at King’s College London, joins Marc to discuss the field of intelligence studies and the importance of passing the torch to the next generation. Additionally, David and Marc dive into the growing Russian spy hub in Mexico, the behind-the-scenes of the Anglo-American special intelligence relationship, and how to heal the growing and unfortunate US public distrust of the intelligence community. Listen to all this, and more, here:

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Lebanon on the Brink of Expanded War, with former DoD Official and PsyOp Veteran Alex Plitsas Sep 19, 2024

As Israel conducts one of the most impressive kinetic intelligence operations of our time, former DoD official Alex Plitsas joins Marc to discuss the technical aspects of the operation, and what may come next as Israel “escalate to de-escalate." Also, Alex and Marc review a recent CT conference that discussed the threat landscape, both from external and internal groups. And great bonus content on Alex and his team's incredible story of a saving an American life in Gaza. Listen here:

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The Evolving and Complex Counterintelligence Landscape in 2024, with former NCSC Director William Evanina Sep 09, 2024

Former Counterintelligence czar Bill Evanina joins Marc to discuss our nation’s greatest CI challenges, to include the staggering threat from an aggressive Chinese communist party, what motivates Americans to betray their country and how to defend against traitors in our midst, and his leadership growth, from SWAT team member, the JTTF post 9/11, a unique rotation to CIA, and then leading the USG’s entire CI efforts. Listen here:

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"The Siege," a Chat with Legendary Intelligence Historian and Author Ben Macintyre Sep 03, 2024

Ben Macintyre, bestselling author of non-fiction intelligence classics such as Rogue Heroes and The Spy and The Traitor, joins Marc to discuss his new book The Siege: A Six-Day Hostage Crisis and the Daring Special-Forces Operation That Shocked the World. Ben discusses his experiences researching the work, the timeline of the 1980 London Hostage Crisis, why it mattered in geopolitics, and the often remarkable personal stories of bravery and heroism among the participants. Plus bonus content why the intelligence business still matters, particularly in Ukraine. Listen to all this and more here:

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A Wild Week in the National Security World - from Chicago to Kursk with national security journalist Michael Weiss Aug 26, 2024

National security journalist @michaeldweiss joins Marc to discuss how Kamala Harris found her inner Reagan, the Ukrainian raid that turned out to be an invasion, and the blob starts the parlor game of who staffs a future Harris White House. Plus, the folly of the Ukrainian doomers never ceases to amaze, even when Ukraine is, dare say…succeeding?

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From Kursk to Gaza and the Hallways of NATO, a tour d'horizon with national security journalist Tom Rogan Aug 19, 2024

The Washington Examiner’s Tom Rogan joins Marc to discuss the lightening Ukrainian offensive in Russia, the Israel/Gaza impasse, the inability of many US administrations to get Iran right, plus Europe taking a more aggressive stance on the world stage... plus a bonus special speed dating segment on leading personalities in the foreign policy arena!

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The Middle East on the Brink, with bestselling author Samuel Katz Aug 12, 2024

Author and terrorism expert Samuel Katz joins Marc to discuss the latest events in the Middle East, to include the potential for Iran and/or Hizballah to badly miscalculate and invite a devastating Israeli response, the threat to US interests particularly within the US, and the extraordinary legacy of legendary spy master Meir Dagan.

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What Happens Next in the Middle East Aug 05, 2024

Following the killing of Hamas’ political leader in Tehran last week, the Middle East has been bracing itself for possible escalation between Israel and Iran (plus Hezbollah) as well as the potential ramifications on the conflict in Gaza. On today’s episode, former Israeli intelligence officer Nadav Pollack joins Marc to discuss these events in the Middle East and offer an Israeli perspective on the widening conflict.

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Part Two with former CIA legend Ed Bogan; Reflections on the GWOT Jul 29, 2024

Former CIA case officer and operational manager Ed Bogan returns to the show to discuss the 20-year Global War on Terrorism, including the camaraderie and dedication of CTC personnel, the painful withdrawal from Afghanistan, what keeps him up at night regarding today’s terrorist threats, and the power of working with liaison.

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FTS: National Security Journalism is Even Harder than it Looks Jul 16, 2024

Original air date: April 22, 2024

With conflicts raging in Ukraine, Gaza, and beyond, the job of covering conflict and national security is more important than ever. But how do journalists provide accurate and reliable coverage? CNN national security correspondent Kylie Atwood joins Marc Polymeropoulos to discuss the unique challenges our current national security climate and more.

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Is Settler Violence in the West Bank Being Ignored? Jul 08, 2024

With the intense focus on Gaza, other critical issues in Israel have slipped into the background. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Mark Mazzetti joins Marc Polymeropoulos to discuss the lack of coverage on settler violence in the West Bank and the significant challenges posed by Israel's rightward shift, both domestically and internationally.

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Post Debate, Europe’s Collective Blood Pressure Rises Jul 01, 2024

European governments watched the US presidential debate with shock and resignation, as fears skyrocket over Trump’s return to power. Meanwhile, Russia employs hybrid warfare, sowing mayhem across the continent. Michael Weiss joins Marc to discuss his recent trip, and how Russian intel follows the ISIS playbook.

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Some Days Matter More than Others Jun 24, 2024

Former CIA senior intelligence service officer Daniel Hoffman joins Marc Polymeropoulos to reveal the intersection of an amazing spy story, a heartwarming love story, a family’s resilience in overcoming tragedy, and what ultimately matters most in life. Don’t miss this special episode.

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Inside the Special Relationship Between Israeli and US Intelligence Jun 18, 2024

The relationship between the Israeli and US intelligence services is longstanding. Yet the October 7th Hamas attack and subsequent Israeli invasion of Gaza has presented unique challenges and opportunities on both sides. National Security reporter Shane Harris, just back from Israel, joins Marc to discuss why the US remains Israel’s key intelligence partner.

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Has Cuba Flown Under The Radar for Too Long? Jun 10, 2024

Russian warships are arriving in Cuba. Another US senior official sentenced for spying for the Cubans. Sound familiar? Retired FBI counterintelligence expert Pete Lapp joins Marc to shed light on Cuba’s tense history with the US and why this persistent thorn in the side of US national security has been underestimated for too long.

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A Former Child Soldier’s Story of Survival Jun 07, 2024

How does someone become a child solider? More importantly, how do they escape? Anthony Opoka joins the podcast with Mick Mulroy and Eric Oehlerich to share his journey from unwilling soldier in Kony’s LRA to crusader for the freedom of child soldiers. Don’t miss his incredible story.

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The Sisterhood: Unveiling the Secret History of Women at the CIA May 31, 2024

Award-winning journalist and author, Liza Mundy, discusses her latest book 'The Sisterhood: The Secret History of Women at the CIA' and delves into the experiences of women at the CIA, their challenges, and their contributions to the agency. The conversation also explores the complexities of the CIA as an institution and the unique experiences of women within it.

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Reflections on a Legendary 24-Year Career at CIA May 20, 2024

Emerging from the shadows after a 24 year career at CIA, former senior case officer Ed Bogan joins Marc to share his insights on serving everywhere from South Asia to Ukraine, including the critical importance of people at CIA, the need to form enduring liaison partnerships and building a resilient workforce. A lively tour d’horizon of an amazing agency life, that includes Ed’s journey from skateboarder in New Jersey, law school in Philadelphia, and then the back alleys of Afghanistan.

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The State of the Middle East after October 7th May 13, 2024

It’s been 7 months since the devastating Hamas attack in Israel. Doug London joins Marc to assess the region after 10/7, including the ferocious Israeli reaction, how Hamas can be "strategically defeated,” the importance of the US as an ally to provide wise counsel, and the prospects of Israel-Saudi normalization.

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The Hidden World of Private Intelligence May 06, 2024

When we think of intelligence, we most often think of state organizations like the CIA. Yet the private sector has a robust intelligence community that keeps on growing. Lewis Sage-Passant joins Marc to shine a light on the overlooked world of private intelligence, and why it has become more critical than ever.

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Inside the Fight for Better Protection for Women at the CIA Apr 29, 2024

The House Intelligence Committee recently released a report on the investigation into reports of sexual harassment at the CIA. The findings were not pretty. So what does the agency need to do to protect women at the agency, and why has this problem persisted for so long? Christina Hillsberg joins Marc Polymeropoulos to discuss this critical issue and why the intelligence community can and must do better.

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National Security Journalism is Even Harder than it Looks Apr 22, 2024

With conflicts raging in Ukraine, Gaza, and beyond, the job of covering conflict and national security is more important than ever. But how do journalists provide accurate and reliable coverage? CNN national security correspondent Kylie Atwood joins Marc Polymeropoulos to discuss the unique challenges our current national security climate and more.

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What Makes Iran’s Attack on Israel Unprecedented — And What Comes Next? Apr 15, 2024

Nearly every news station is describing Iran’s attack on Israel ‘unprecedented’. But why? More importantly, what comes next? Former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East Mick Mulroy joins Marc to give a run-down on the implications of Iran’s attack, why it represents a huge escalation in the region, and what might be coming next in the embattled region.

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A Crash Course in Investigative Journalism with Michael Weiss Apr 09, 2024

Investigative journalism is difficult enough, but studying Russia and the intelligence community is on another level. Michael Weiss is one of the journalists up to the task. Michael joins Marc Polymeropoulos to break down his latest reporting on Havana Syndrome and takes us on a tour of his investigation and beyond.

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A Peek Inside The Unit with Adam Gamal Apr 02, 2024

Some elements of US intelligence and special operations are so secretive, we don’t even know their names. Adam Gamal lived that life and his new book “The Unit” pulls back the curtain on America’s most secret military unit. Adam joins Marc Polymeropoulos to discuss what is a true American Dream story from Alexandria, Egypt to the pinnacle of the special operations world, and why diversity is a necessary component in defense and intelligence.

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The Ghosts of Intelligence Past, Present, and Future with Amy Zegart Mar 25, 2024

Believe it or not, international intelligence is a lot harder to predict than March Madness. From the attack in Moscow to the issue of emerging technologies, challenges both old and new will play a significant role in the coming years. Intelligence and security expert Amy Zegart joins Marc to break down the recently released Annual Threat Assessment and the challenges on the horizon for US intelligence.

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Ukraine, Elections and AI - A Conversation with Patrick Weninger Mar 18, 2024

Marc’s guest this week is Patrick Weninger, a retired CIA Senior Intelligence Service Case Officer with over 28 years of experience in the Central Intelligence Agency and U.S. Air Force. He served executive-level headquarters assignments overseeing clandestine operations, tradecraft, and technical operations and served as a Senior Executive Operations Officer and Manager, with senior field assignments in the Near East, South Asia, and Europe, including multiple Chief of Station and war zone assignments. He led and oversaw the CIA’s global program for Russia. Marc and Patrick discuss Ukraine, election meddling and generative AI. Don’t miss this fascinating and wide-ranging conversation with one of the agency’s top former officers, in his national security podcast debut.

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The Syria Problem that Just Won’t Go Away Mar 11, 2024

With such a heavy focus on the situations in Gaza and Ukraine, other foreign policy priorities have taken a back seat. Syria is one priority that is likely to get worse before it gets better. Director of the Middle East Institute’s Syria program Charles Lister joins Marc Polymeropoulos to outline the need for a coherent strategy to deal with Syria, and how the country is primed to explode.

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How the CIA Secretly Helps Ukraine Fight Back Mar 04, 2024

New York Times award winning journalist Adam Entous joins Marc Polymeropoulos to discuss Adam’s latest NY Times article chronicling the extraordinary evolution between 2014 until today of the partnership between US and Ukrainian intelligence. From initial efforts by the US to “put in the plumbing,” building personal ties and basic intelligence exchanges, to the CIA remaining on the ground during the Russian invasion and an admission from Ukrainian intelligence that without CIA’s targeting help, Kyiv would have fallen, it is an intelligence success story for the ages.

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‘I Told You So’: Russian Intelligence is Alive and Well in the US Feb 26, 2024

Alexander Smirnov has showed us that Russian ‘active measures’ are even more active than we thought. An FBI informant working with Russian intelligence is no small feat, but the extent of the Kremlin’s efforts is even greater. Former CIA officer Alex Finley joins Marc Polymeropoulos to break down how the Russian security threat at home and abroad.

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The Profound Impact of Alexei Navalny Feb 20, 2024

Alexei Navalny’s influence cannot be overstated, and the impact of his death has sent shockwaves across Russia, and around the world. As Putin’s regime grows bolder by the day, we turn to journalist Julia Ioffe at the Munich Security Conference for her insight into Putin’s Russia, and how the country has continued to transform for the worse.

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Trump Throws Europe to the Wolves Feb 15, 2024

Donald Trump will throw Europe to the wolves, and he’s said so himself. The former president has said that he would not defend NATO countries in case of a Russian invasion, shocking our European allies. Yet the story has been little more than a footnote in the US news cycle. Journalist Michael Weiss joins Marc Polymeropoulos and David Rothkopf to discuss the profound damage of Trump’s statements and more.

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What Can Be Done to Prevent the Looming Dramatic Worsening of the Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza? Feb 15, 2024

The Israel-Hamas conflict has wreaked havoc on civilians in Gaza, but the worst may be yet to come. As international watchdogs warn of potential famine and disease outbreaks, what can the US do to prevent disaster? Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East Mick Mulroy joins Marc Polymeropoulos and David Rothkopf to share insight from his recent trip to Israel and more.

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From Hollywood with Love: What Makes for a Good Spy Movie? Feb 15, 2024

Spy movies have been a staple of Hollywood for decades, but how many of them actually get it right? Spycraft Entertainment’s John Sipher joins Marc Polymeropoulos to talk about what makes for a good spy story, and why more accurate depictions of the intelligence community make for great entertainment. John and Marc also discuss the generational divide between the old guard and Gen Z at the CIA and more.

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