Intelligence Matters

CIA Clinical Psychologist Ursula Wilder on Profiling World Leaders Mar 29, 2023

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Ursula Wilder, a clinical psychologist at the Central Intelligence Agency, about why intelligence agencies conduct psychological profiles of world leaders, and how past policymakers have used what they have learned to make strategic decisions. Wilder, who also worked in CIA's counterterrorism center and Medical and Psychological Assessments unit, explains the "dark tetrad" of personality -- narcissism, paranoia, Machiavellianism and sadism -- and how those traits can influence how leaders make decisions and engage in negotiations. She and Morell also discuss how policymakers respond to psychological profiles compiled by government agencies.

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Former Middle East Envoy Dennis Ross on Regional Instability Mar 22, 2023

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former senior U.S. ambassador and Middle East envoy Dennis Ross about growing instability in the Middle East, including tensions between Israel and Palestine, controversial judicial reforms in Israel, and consistent advancements in Iran's nuclear program. Ross, now counselor and a distinguished fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, offers suggestions for a clearer and more muscular U.S. policy vis a vis Iran and weighs the implications of a possible unilateral military strike on its nuclear facilities by Israel.

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The U.S. Invasion of Iraq: A Look at Intelligence, 20 Years Later Mar 15, 2023

In this special episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with five former senior CIA officers about the agency's work before, during and after the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003. With personal recollections and reflections, Morell offers a candid walkthrough of what the CIA and other intelligence agencies assessed about Saddam Hussein's intentions and weapons programs in the lead-up to the invasion, how intelligence was used within the U.S. government throughout this period, and how the consequences of the CIA's missteps - as well as its successes - continue to reverberate today.

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Kristin Wood on the Intelligence Value of Open Source Data Mar 08, 2023

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former senior CIA officer Kristin Wood about the history, value and current applications of open source data to intelligence collection and analysis. Wood, who helped lead the innovation and technology group at CIA's Open Source Center, walks through the types of information available to the public and for purchase through commercial firms that create unique insights into companies, behaviors and events. Morell and Wood discuss the ways in which the U.S. intelligence community has leveraged - or failed to leverage - some key open source data.

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Assessing Top Global Security Threats with Expert Frederick Kagan Mar 01, 2023

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Frederick Kagan, director of the Critical Threats Project at the American Enterprise Institute, about the current landscape of global security threats from the likes of Russia, China, Iran and North Korea. Kagan and Morell discuss Russian president Vladimir Putin's options and objectives in the war in Ukraine and the lessons China's Xi Jinping may be drawing from the conflict. Kagan also offers insights into the effect of recent protests on the Iranian regime's stability and the nuclear ambitions of both Tehran and Pyongyang.

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Marking One Year of War in Ukraine: State Department Counselor Derek Chollet Feb 22, 2023

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with State Department Counselor Derek Chollet about the state of the war in Ukraine as it enters its second year. Morell and Chollet discuss the implications of a deepening relationship between Russia and Iran as well as Russia and China, which the U.S. recently warned against providing material aid to Moscow. Chollet also provides new insights into the newly tense relationship between Washington and Beijing, following the shootdown of a Chinese surveillance balloon. He outlines the Biden administration's approach to managing Iran's nuclear ambitions after the earlier collapse of nuclear talks.

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Chinese Spy Balloon Fallout: Military Expert John Culver Feb 15, 2023

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former senior CIA analyst and National Intelligence Officer for East Asia John Culver about the rippling implications of the Chinese surveillance balloon shot down over U.S. territory. Culver and Morell discuss Beijing's possible intentions behind deploying the balloon as well as the potential information it - and other Chinese surveillance efforts - may have targeted. They also discuss the ways in which heightened tensions between Washington and Beijing could raise the risks of conflict over Taiwan.

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Inside Global Diplomacy: RT. Honourable Baroness Catherine Ashton Feb 08, 2023

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Rt. Honourable Baroness Catherine Ashton, former Vice President of the European Commission and the European Union's first representative for foreign affairs and security policy, about her career and new book, "And Then What? Inside Stories of 21st Century Diplomacy." Ashton provides an insider's view of several high-stakes diplomatic engagements, including the early days of forging the Iran nuclear deal and the EU-brokered talks between Serbia and Kosovo. Morell and Ashton also discuss the nature of political leadership and share thoughts about some of the world leaders with whom they engaged personally.

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China Expert Dennis Wilder on U.S. Policy Towards Beijing Feb 01, 2023

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Dennis Wilder, former CIA officer and current research fellow at Georgetown University's Initiative for U.S.-China Dialogue on Global Issues, about the effectiveness of the United States' current diplomatic and economic policies toward China. Wilder and Morell discuss China's recent economic slowdown and its longer-term prospects for growth, as well as key regional issues like the management of North Korea's nuclear ambitions. Wilder also provides his views on President Xi Jinping's leadership and the trajectory of the Chinese Communist Party.

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Understanding Electronic Surveillance with NSA's Former Top Lawyer Jan 25, 2023

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Glenn Gerstell, former general counsel at the National Security Agency, about how and when the NSA is authorized to use electronic surveillance to collect intelligence on foreign targets. Gerstell offers a detailed explanation of the origins and evolution of the Foreign Intellingence Surveillance Act (FISA) and the statute, most commonly referred to as Section 702, that allows electronic surveillance using U.S. electronic communications service providers. He and Morell walk through the legal limitations put forth in the statute and the debate currently surrounding its reauthorization by Congress.

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Former CIA Officer Rolf Mowatt-Larssen's Strategic Analysis of the Russia-Ukraine War Jan 18, 2023

This week on Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with former senior CIA officer and Moscow station chief Rolf Mowatt-Larssen about his strategic analysis of the Russia-Ukraine war. He maps out the Russian objectives in the war and the lack of clear Western goals as the war continues. Mowatt-Larssen predicts that Putin will launch an offensive in 2023 but not until he has mobilized a sufficient number of troops, something he failed to do in the past year. Mowatt-Larssen discusses Putin's "scorched earth" approach and how it has led to the weaponization of energy.

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Michael Morell on the Year Ahead: Strategic Challenges in 2023 Jan 11, 2023

This week on Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell offers an in-depth analysis of the top national security challenges facing the world in 2023. Morell describes how the outcome of the Russia-Ukraine war is in the hands of West and that without Western assistance, Russia could win the war. Morell defines the U.S. China relationship as a "cold war," but despite that tension Morell does not predict that China will invade Taiwan in 2023. Where Morell foresees the greatest probability of war in 2023 is between Iran and Israel as a hardline Israeli government takes the helm.

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Inside China's Surveillance State: Liza Lin and Josh Chin Jan 04, 2023

This week on Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with Wall Street Journal reporters Liza Lin and Josh Chin about their new book Surveillance State: Inside China's Quest to Launch a New Era of Social Control. Their new reporting examines how China's data collection goes beyond that of other countries as China seeks to create a model to export as an alternative to democratic governance. Lin and Chin detail Silicon Valley's involvement in the buildup of China's surveillance state and how the technology is used to surveil Uyghurs in Xinjiang.

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BEST OF: Hal Brands on Potential of Future Conflict with China Dec 28, 2022

In this Best of episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell spoke with Hal Brands, Henry A. Kissinger Distinguished Professor of Global Affairs at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and author of the new book, Danger Zone: The Coming Conflict with China, about China's economic, political and demographic trajectory and the percolating risk of conflict with Beijing in the coming years. Brands explains why he believes China, rather than being on the rise, is peaking as a global power and as a result may engage in more destabilizing behavior. Brands and Morell explore how certain external tailwinds - which once propelled China's rise - have become headwinds, and may be driving President Xi Jinping's tightening grip on political power. They also discuss the effect of Speaker Pelosi's visit to Taipei, different scenarios and timelines for a possible Chinese invasion of Taiwan, as well as how the conflict in Ukraine may - or may not - affect Xi's calculus. This episode was originally released in August 2022.

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BEST OF: Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy and Force Development Elbridge Colby Dec 21, 2022

In this "Best Of" episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy and Force Development Elbridge Colby about his new book The Strategy of Denial: American Defense in an Age of Great Power Conflict and whether the U.S. military is ready for a new era of great power competition. Colby discusses doubts amongst analysts in the U.S. ability to win a war against the Chinese military. He notes that there is substantial bipartisan agreement that China is the biggest threat against the U.S. This episode was originally released in September 2022.

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Former CIA Chief Operating Officer on his Career at the CIA Dec 14, 2022

This week on Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with former CIA Chief Operating Officer Andrew Makridis on his 37-year career at the CIA. Makridis reflects on his front row seat to history as a Presidential briefer to President George H.W. Bush. He provides his analysis on how the CIA has changed and improved since the Iraq WMD intelligence failure and Wikileaks breach.

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Accidental Czar: The Life and Lies of Vladimir Putin with Former White House Russia Expert Andrew Weiss Dec 07, 2022

This week on Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with Andrew Weiss, former White House Russia Expert and vice president for studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, about his new book Accidental Czar: The Life and Lies of Vladimir Putin. Weiss discusses what motivates Putin and what misconceptions the U.S. has about his strategy in Ukraine.

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The CIA in the Movies: A Review with the Co-Founders of Spycraft Entertainment Nov 30, 2022

This week on Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with John Sipher and Jerry O'Shea, former CIA officers and co-founders of Spycraft Entertainment, about what Hollywood gets right and wrong about its depictions of the CIA. Sipher and O'Shea review movies, TV series, and books on how realistic their portrayals are of life in the agency.

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Working at CIA: In Conversation with CIA Director of Operations and Director of Analysis Nov 23, 2022

This week on Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell, in partnership with the Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy, and International Security, speaks with Dave Marlowe, CIA Director of Operations, and Linda Weissgold, CIA Director of Analysis about their careers at CIA and global hotspots. Marlowe and Weissgold discuss what skills and attributes CIA looks for when hiring officers while sharing their own career trajectories at CIA. They examine key issues for the agency including Ukraine, Iran, and China.

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The Evolution of U.S.-China Relations: National Security Analyst Graham Allison Nov 16, 2022

This week on Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with Professor at the Harvard Kennedy School and national security analyst Graham Allison as he re-examines his interviews on China with Former Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Kuan Yew. Allison inspects how their analysis and predictions on China hold up ten years later. Allison discusses Xi's plan for China, the negative consequences of bellicose rhetoric, and how Taiwan could potentially trigger a war between the U.S. and China.

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The Threat of North Korea's Nuclear Weapons: Markus Garlauskas Nov 09, 2022

This week on Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with the National Intelligence Officer on North Korea from 2014-2020 Markus Garlauskas about his assessment of North Korea's missile tests and the threat of nuclear weapons. Garlauskas lays out how the U.S. can deter North Korea even as China works as an enabler for the regime.

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The Aims and Impact of Chinese Foreign Development: Brad Parks Nov 02, 2022

This week on Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with the Executive Director of AidData at the College of William and Mary Brad Parks to discuss how China is outspending the rest of the world in foreign development and how the U.S. can catch up. Parks details how China is using foreign aid to gain influence abroad and create a market for its industries.

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Implications of Xi Jinping's Hold on Power: Former Senior CIA China Analyst Chris Johnson Oct 26, 2022

This week on Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with former senior CIA China analyst Chris Johnson, now President and CEO of the China Strategies Group, to discuss Xi cementing his power at the Communist Party congress, the line-up of the all-powerful Politburo, and what it means for the state of play of U.S.-China relations. Morell and Johnson discuss the implications on foreign policy of the new Politburo and the keeping of China's foreign minister.

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U.S. Political Violence on the Rise: Professor Bob Pape Oct 19, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with University of Chicago political science professor and director of the Chicago Project on Security and Threats Robert "Bob" Pape about his ongoing research on political violence in America and its implications as the midterms approach. His new research finds that 5% of American adults, or around 13 million people, agree that the use of force is justified to restore Donald Trump to the presidency. Pape discusses the ways in which political violence has turned mainstream and is being exacerbated by political leaders.

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The Ethics and Impact of Drone Strikes: Georgetown Law Professor Mitt Regan Oct 12, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with Georgetown Law Professor Mitt Regan about his new book Drone Strike: Analyzing the Impacts of Targeted Killing. They discuss the effect of drone strikes on al-Qaeda's continuation and growth, the lack of a systematic civilian casualty mitigation efforts, and the ethics of drone strikes outside of a war zone.

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Putin's Threat of Nuclear War: Former CIA Moscow Chief of Station Rolf Mowatt-Larssen Oct 05, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former CIA Moscow Chief of Station and William J. Perry Distinguished Fellow at the Nuclear Threat Initiative Rolf Mowatt-Larssen about Putin's nuclear threats and how U.S. policymakers should respond. Mowatt-Larssen stresses that Western leaders need to take Putin's threats seriously as we enter the highest point in global nuclear risks since the Cuban Missile Crisis 60 years ago. He details why as Ukrainians are winning on the battlefield, they are not ready to sit at the negotiating table.

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75th Anniversary of the CIA with Deputy Director of the CIA David Cohen Sep 28, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell is joined by Deputy Director of the CIA David Cohen to discuss the 75th anniversary of the intelligence agency and his career path to the ranks of top leadership. Cohen details the invisible work of CIA agents and responds to critiques of the agency. Cohen provides his analysis of key players on the world stage: Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping. He notes that the CIA has not seen indications that Russians are planning to use nuclear weapons.

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The Status of a U.S.-Iran Deal: Middle East Expert Karim Sadjadpour Sep 21, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Senior Fellow at the Middle East Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace Karim Sadjadpour about a potential new deal between the U.S. and Iran. Sadjadpour details that the Iranians do not believe the Biden administration has a plan B to the deal, leading Iran to not feel urgency to compromise. Sadjadpour provides an analysis of what a Iran deal would mean for the Biden administration in a domestic political context ahead of the midterm elections.

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Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy and Force Development Elbridge Colby Sep 14, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy and Force Development Elbridge Colby about his new book The Strategy of Denial: American Defense in an Age of Great Power Conflict and whether the U.S. military is ready for a new era of great power competition. Colby discusses doubts amongst analysts in the U.S. ability to win a war against the Chinese military. He notes that there is substantial bipartisan agreement that China is the biggest threat against the U.S.

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Journalist and Former Marine Elliot Ackerman Sep 07, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Journalist and Former Marine Elliot Ackerman about his new book The Fifth Act: America's End in Afghanistan. Ackerman reflects on the impact of the war in Afghanistan for a generation of veterans. He discusses the constructs the United States built in order to sustain the war on terror and how he believes the veterans of the war should be memorialized.

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Global Energy Expert Daniel Yergin Aug 31, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Global Energy Expert Daniel Yergin about energy security in the context of deep power rivalries as he provides his analysis of Putin's energy miscalculations. Yergin details the Biden administration's efforts to promote more oil production while committing to its long-term climate agenda. He warns against the large impact that any global disturbance can have to tight energy markets.

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Terrorism Analyst Bill Roggio Aug 24, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Terrorism Analyst and Long War Journal Editor Bill Roggio on the state of the counterterrorism fight in Afghanistan a year after the full U.S. withdrawal and the Taliban regaining control of the country. Roggio says that al Qaida has a stronger global position today than it had prior to 9/11. He notes that while the Islamic State is a more immediate threat, al Qaida is the greater threat long-term. Roggio details the lead up to the U.S. withdraw from Afghanistan and how the Biden administration's lack of a phased withdraw did not give a chance for Afghans to transition to "an Afghan way."

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Former Senior CIA Analysts on China: Chris Johnson and John Culver Aug 17, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Former Senior CIA analysts Chris Johnson, President and CEO of China Strategies Group, and John Culver, former national intelligence officer for East Asia, about Chinese and Taiwan relations after Speaker Pelosi's trip to Taipei. Culver describes China's military response as both "unprecedented" and showing "constraints", never escalating to a point where Taiwan had to make a use of force decision. Culver discusses how a real Chinese invasion of Taiwan would involve a national mobilization of not only the People's Liberation Army but of the entire Chinese economy and society. Chris Johnson details the Chinese mindset to Speaker Pelosi's visit and the concerns China has over bills in Congress it believes would erode the one-China policy.

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The Potential of Future Conflict with China: Professor Hal Brands Aug 10, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Hal Brands, Henry A. Kissinger Distinguished Professor of Global Affairs at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and author of the new book, Danger Zone: The Coming Conflict with China, about China's economic, political and demographic trajectory and the percolating risk of conflict with Beijing in the coming years. Brands explains why he believes China, rather than being on the rise, is peaking as a global power and as a result may engage in more destabilizing behavior. Brands and Morell explore how certain external tailwinds - which once propelled China's rise - have become headwinds, and may be driving President Xi Jinping's tightening grip on political power. They also discuss the effect of Speaker Pelosi's visit to Taipei, different scenarios and timelines for a possible Chinese invasion of Taiwan, as well as how the conflict in Ukraine may - or may not - affect Xi's calculus.

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Battlefield Lessons for Ukraine, Taiwan: Former Diplomat Eric Edelman Aug 03, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Eric Edelman, former U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and Finland and Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and likely lessons being drawn about the West's response and the nature of the battle by the People's Republic of China. Edelman and Morell discuss a range of possible future scenarios for the war in Ukraine, exploring its military, economic and diplomatic dimensions for both Kyiv and Moscow. Edelman also offers insights into how the conflict may inform China's approach to coercive or forceful reunification with Taiwan.

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Best Of: Stanford Professor and Author Amy Zegart Jul 27, 2022

In this "Best Of" episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Amy Zegart, the Morris Arnold and Nona Jean Cox Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution and Professor of Political Science at Stanford University about her new book, "Spies, Lies and Algorithms: The History and Future of American Intelligence." Morell and Zegart discuss the impact of emerging technologies on intelligence collection and analysis, both of which, Zegart says, have been fundamentally changed by developments like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and commercial satellite imagery. Zegart also outlines the five "mores" - more threats, more speed, more data, more customers and more competitors - that she says have made the work of intelligence newly challenging. This episode was originally released in February 2022.

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Best Of: Psychiatrist Kenneth Dekleva on Profiling World Leaders Jul 20, 2022

In this "Best Of" episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Kenneth Dekleva, a psychiatrist, former U.S. Department of State Regional Medical Officer, and Senior Fellow at the George H.W. Bush Foundation for US-China Relations, about how experts compile psychological profiles of world leaders. Morell and Dekleva discuss the formative experiences and core characteristics of Russian president Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and Supreme Leader of Iran Ayatollah Khamanei. They also discuss the character of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as well as how other countries might approach similar profiles of U.S. leaders. This episode was previously released in March 2022.

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Making Fun of Spies: Former CIA Officer and Satirist Alex Finley Jul 13, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Alex Finley, a former CIA officer in the Directorate of Operations and an author of three satirical books depicting life and work at the agency. Finley describes how CIA officers often use humor in unique ways to cope with high-stress assignments, and she and Morell discuss the ways in which satire can illuminate little-known realities about serious subjects. Finley also describes her newfound role as an amateur 'yacht-watcher,' tracking Russian oligarchs' yachts through the port of Barcelona.

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Expert Heather Conley on Russia's "Strategic Conservatism" Jul 06, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Heather Conley, president of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, about Russia's use of "strategic conservatism" to exploit divisions with and within the West. Conley explains how Russian President Vladimir Putin has leveraged the support of the leadership of the Russian Orthodox Church to portray himself as a global defender of conservative values. Conley and Morell also discuss how the Russian Orthodox Church has undermined its own objective of ecumenism by alienating those who oppose Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

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Former Ambassador Peter Wittig on Foreign Perceptions of the U.S. Jun 29, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Peter Wittig, Germany's former ambassador to the United States, United Kingdom, Lebanon, Cyprus and the United Nations, about foreign perceptions of the United States at pivotal historical moments. Wittig and Morell trace the evolution of America's standing in the eyes of the world from the end of the World Wars to the end of the Cold War, through the period following 9/11, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, to today. Wittig offers insights on the effect of the Trump administration's "America First" policy on global alliances and shares his view on the Biden administration's effort to rally global support for Ukraine before and during Russia's invasion. Wittig and Morell also discuss how its domestic instability may undermine America's credibility and ability to lead.

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Strategic Opportunities and Challenges in Latin America: Pedro Burelli Jun 22, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Pedro Burelli, a Venezuelan citizen, a former senior Venezuelan oil official, and an astute observer of Latin America and the world. Burelli and Morell exchange observations about Latin America's political and economic trajectory, including key influences and inflection points in Cuba, Chile, Mexico and other countries. They discuss shifts in political leadership, the degradation of democratic norms, and the opportunistic entrances of Russia and China into the region. Burelli also reflects on the achievements of the Biden administration's recent Summit of the Americas.

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China's Path and Xi's Political Future: Expert Chris Johnson Jun 15, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former senior CIA China analyst Chris Johnson, now President and CEO of the China Strategies Group, about the state of play in the U.S.-China relationship and how China's approach to Russia, its COVID lockdowns and economic policies are affecting the bilateral and global dynamic. Johnson and Morell discuss President Xi Jinping's political objectives ahead of the 20th Party Congress this fall, including whether there exists a timeline for 'reunification' with Taiwan. Johnson also offers views on the Biden administration's recently announced China strategy.

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Big Tech, Regulation & National Security: Klon Kitchen & Jamil Jaffer Jun 08, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Klon Kitchen, Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and Jamil Jaffer, founder and Executive Director of the National Security Institute at George Mason University, about a range of current national security topics, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Iran's pursuit of nuclear capabilities, and the national security implications of regulating Big Tech companies. Kitchen and Jaffer offer their views on why politically-driven legislation could negatively affect innovation that they say is crucial to U.S. national security and to maintaining the country's competitive edge. They also share thoughts on why European and Chinese approaches are ill-suited for American markets.

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The Sandy Hook Shooting and How Conspiracy Theories Affect National Security: Journalist Elizabeth Williamson Jun 01, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with journalist and author Elizabeth Williamson, who traced the rise and proliferation of conspiracy theories surrounding the 2012 Sandy Hook school shooting in a new book, Sandy Hook: An American Tragedy in the Battle for Truth. Williamson and Morell discuss how the conspiracy theories began, to whom they tend to appeal, and how social media companies have been integral to their spread. Williamson also explains how the U.S. may have begun 'exporting' politicized disinformation and techniques now being coopted by authoritarian governments around the world.

Editor's note: This episode was taped before the tragic events in Uvalde, Texas.

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Reporting From Ukraine's Front Line: CBS News Correspondent Holly Williams May 25, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with award-winning CBS News senior foreign correspondent Holly Williams about her on-the-ground reporting in Ukraine since the days of the 2014 Maidan revolution. Williams and Morell discuss the scenes at the front lines of the conflict today, including the brutality of Russia's tactics, the morale of Ukraine's forces, and Volodymyr Zelenskyy's unlikely rise to the presidency. Williams also offers insights into the kinds of preparations that are made for conflict zone reporting and reflects on the sacrifices journalists have made while covering Russia's war.

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State of Play in Ukraine: Former Moscow Chief of Station Rolf Mowatt-Larssen May 18, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former senior CIA operations officer and Moscow station chief Rolf Mowatt-Larssen about the likely trajectory of the war in Ukraine, including the possibility of a negotiated peace -- or dangerous escalation. Mowatt-Larssen offers insights on Putin's options, potential rifts among his intelligence agencies, and persistent rumors about the Russian leader's health. Morell and Mowatt-Larssen also discuss Western involvement in the conflict and the lingering potential for the Kremlin to use weapons of mass destruction.

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Counterterrorism Chief Christy Abizaid on Top Terror Threats to the U.S. May 11, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Christine "Christy" Abizaid, director of the National Counterterrorism Center within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Abizaid explains how the center's mission has evolved in the two decades following 9/11 and where its current areas of focus are. She details the existing external attack capabilities of terror networks including ISIS, al-Qaeda and al-Shabaab and explains how their ideologies have spread worldwide. Abizaid also offers her perspective on the threat within the United States of domestic violent extremists, explaining how NCTC supports domestic law enforcement agencies in tracking and disrupting potential attacks.

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Israel's Security Challenges: Former Senior Mossad Officer Zohar Palti May 04, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Zohar Palti, former senior Mossad officer and head of the Israeli Defense Forces' Political-Military Bureau, about his career, Israel's approach to the Iran nuclear issue and Tehran's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Palti shares his views on the value of intelligence to key decision points in Israel's historic national security choices and the bond between the Mossad and CIA. He also discusses the current top threats to Israel today.

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Former GOP Congressman and CIA Officer Will Hurd Apr 27, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Will Hurd, a former CIA officer and Republican Congressman from Texas who served on the House Intelligence Committee. Morell and Hurd, who is the author of the new book, "American Reboot: An Idealist’s Guide to Getting Big Things Done," discuss a range of domestic challenges - including immigration, political division, and adapting to advanced technologies - that may pose broader national security threats. They also discuss the U.S. policy toward Ukraine amid Russia's invasion and America's preparedness for long-term competition with China.

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John McLaughlin on Russia's World-Changing War Apr 20, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former CIA deputy director John McLaughlin about the global implications of Russia's invasion of Ukraine - including within Russia itself, across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. McLaughlin offers analysis on Russian president Vladimir Putin's personal position, the nature of a potential Ukrainian insurgency, and the rebuilding that will have to follow the end of the war. Morell and McLaughlin also discuss the future of Western alliances, how China deals with the world, and how the world deals with China.

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Top State Department Intelligence Official Brett Holmgren Apr 13, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Brett Holmgren, Assistant Secretary of State for Intelligence and Research (INR) at the U.S. Department of State, about the unique history of his agency, its future, and how its analysts work to equip diplomats with key intelligence today. Holmgren and Morell discuss the Biden administration's unprecedented strategy of publicly releasing declassified intelligence about Russia's military plans in Ukraine, the risks it entails, and how it may have solidified Western support for rigorous sanctions. They also discuss China's support for Russia and other key global challenges, including the elusive nuclear deal with Iran and democratic backsliding in Latin America.

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Global Effects of Russia's War in Ukraine: Oil and Energy Expert Mark Finley Apr 06, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Mark Finley, fellow in energy and global oil at Rice University's Baker Institute, former senior economist for British Petroleum, and former analyst and manager at CIA. Finley explains the effects of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on global oil and gas markets and why current Western sanctions may not immediately meaningfully curtail Moscow's energy revenues. Morell and Finley also discuss how the rest of the world may experience price shocks stemming from growing commodities prices, including the risk of a recession.

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WMD Risks in Ukraine: Former Senior CIA Operations Officer Rolf Mowatt-Larssen Mar 30, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former senior CIA operations officer and senior fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School's Belfer Center Rolf Mowatt-Larssen about Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, the prospect of Russia using weapons of mass destruction, and the likelihood of a near-term political solution to the crisis. Mowatt-Larssen, who spent a significant part of his career in Moscow and dealt with WMD terror threats after 9/11, outlines some of Putin's most significant miscalculations, his efforts to control domestic narratives within Russia, and the internal fissures that the Ukraine conflict has laid bare. Mowatt-Larssen also offers insights into how the war - and potential political solutions - may proceed from here.

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Nuclear Confrontations with Moscow: Author Brian Morra Mar 23, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Brian Morra, former Air Force intelligence officer and author of "The Able Archers," a novel based on the true story of a narrowly avoided nuclear confrontation between the U.S. and the Soviet Union in 1983. Morra details the key players and events that brought the two global superpowers to the brink of conflict - and what high-risk interventions were required to avert cataclysm. Morra explains how his book - and experience in 1983 - might have meaning for the Russia-led war in Ukraine today.

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Beijing's View of the Russia-Ukraine War: China Expert Chris Johnson Mar 16, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Chris Johnson, Senior Fellow at CSIS, about the Chinese perspective on the Russia-Ukraine War. Morell and Johnson discuss how the crisis in Ukraine affects China's view on Taiwan and how China would like the conflict to end. Johnson discusses how chemical weapons "would probably be a dividing line for the Chinese, although it wasn't in Syria."

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Profiling Putin and Other World Leaders: Psychiatrist Kenneth Dekleva Mar 09, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Kenneth Dekleva, a psychiatrist, former U.S. Department of State Regional Medical Officer, and Senior Fellow at the George H.W. Bush Foundation for US-China Relations, about how experts compile psychological profiles of world leaders. Morell and Dekleva discuss the formative experiences and core characteristics of Russian president Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and Supreme Leader of Iran Ayatollah Khamanei. They also discuss the character of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as well as how other countries might approach similar profiles of U.S. leaders

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Putin's Choices in Ukraine: Former Top Pentagon Official Mike Vickers Mar 02, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Mike Vickers, former Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence, Special Forces officer and CIA operations officer. Vickers and Morell discuss whether and how Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine may have been a gross strategic miscalculation, how and when the West might have deterred his moves, and what future scenarios for the conflict exist. They discuss Putin's options and decision-making and how his pariah status will affect developments domestically and globally.

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Taiwan-China Tensions: Expert Bonnie Glaser Feb 23, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Bonnie Glaser, director of the Asia Program at the German Marshall Fund of the United States, about the history of Taiwan, current political perceptions of it within China and the Communist Party, and whether Chinese president Xi Jinping has a timeline for achieving reunification. Morell and Glaser also discuss Xi’s likely perceptions of the Russia-Ukraine crisis and of the effect of the United States’ longstanding policy of strategic ambiguity.

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The Russia-Ukraine Crisis: A Panel of Experts Discuss Feb 16, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell moderates a conversation among a panel of experts including former Deputy Secretary General of NATO Rose Gottemoeller, former Deputy National Intelligence Officer for Russia and Eurasia Andrea Kendall-Taylor, and former senior CIA operations officer John Sipher about the state of the Russia-Ukraine crisis and whether diplomatic options remain viable. The panel evaluates Russian President Vladimir Putin's immediate and long-term objectives and discusses how deterrent measures might be enhanced. They also discuss possible post-conflict scenarios in the European security landscape. This episode was produced in partnership with the Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy, and International Security at George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government.

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The Future of the Kim Regime: North Korea Expert Sue Mi Terry Feb 09, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Sue Mi Terry, former senior CIA analyst and current Director of the Hyundai Motor-Korea Foundation Center for Korean History and Public Policy at the Wilson Center, about North Korea's record-breaking spate of missile tests in 2022 and its overall approach to the Biden administration. Terry and Morell discuss the stances struck by Russia and China to Pyongyang's newly aggressive behavior, as well as the prospects for changes in the Kim regime's behavior. Terry also identifies some burgeoning fissures in North Korean society and discusses growing concerns about leader Kim Jong Un's health.

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Stanford Professor and Author Amy Zegart Feb 02, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Amy Zegart, the Morris Arnold and Nona Jean Cox Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution and Professor of Political Science at Stanford University about her new book, "Spies, Lies and Algorithms: The History and Future of American Intelligence." Morell and Zegart discuss the impact of emerging technologies on intelligence collection and analysis, both of which, Zegart says, have been fundamentally changed by developments like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and commercial satellite imagery. Zegart also outlines the five "mores" - more threats, more speed, more data, more customers and more competitors - that she says have made the work of intelligence newly challenging.

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CIA's Former Deputy Director for Science and Technology Dawn Meyerriecks Jan 26, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Dawn Meyerriecks, former Deputy Director for Science and Technology at the CIA, about the role of technology in intelligence collection and analysis and how technological developments can enhance, threaten or fundamentally change the work of national security. Meyerriecks discusses how the CIA has historically approached the incorporation of new technologies into its tradecraft and how the agency is adapting to fast-moving changes today. She also discusses how the CIA is contending with the phenomenon of ubiquitous technical surveillance, which has threatened its human intelligence collection mission.

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State Department Counselor Derek Chollet on Top Foreign Policy Challenges Jan 19, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with State Department Counselor Derek Chollet about the top foreign policy challenges facing the United States, and how the State Department sees the way forward with regard to Russia, Iran, Afghanistan and China. Chollet outlines the U.S. strategy for deescalating tensions with Moscow amid its continued military buildup at Ukraine's border, discusses the prospects for brokering a nuclear deal with Iran, and offers thoughts on how the U.S. will approach challenges stemming from China's rise. He also describes ongoing efforts to bolster U.S. alliances and reinvigorate U.S. diplomacy.

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Applying Cold War Lessons to Great Power Competition: Historian Hal Brands Jan 12, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Hal Brands, the Henry Kissinger Distinguished Professor of Global Affairs at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and the author of the new book, "The Twilight Struggle: What the Cold War Teaches Us About Great Power Rivalry Today." Morell and Brands discuss the ways in which applied history can help policymakers make better-informed strategic decisions today. They move through a selection of Cold War-era lessons outlined by Brands in his book to inform the United States' approach to competition with Russia and China. They also discuss why some efforts - including the forging global partnerships and successfully projecting democratic values - may pose more of a challenge for the United States today than it did in decades past.

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Michael Morell on the Top Global Threats in 2022 Jan 05, 2022

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell offers a personal, in-depth analysis of two top global threats in 2022: Russia’s military aggression toward Ukraine and Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Morell offers historic and contemporary context on Moscow’s objectives and President Putin’s tactics; he also offers unique perspective on the political and national security calculus being made by Tehran’s leadership as nuclear talks continue. He describes alternative scenarios and lays out the most likely outcomes for each foreign policy challenge.

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"Best Of" Intelligence Matters: Clarissa Ward Dec 29, 2021

In this 'Best Of' episode of Intelligence Matters, we revisit Michael Morell's June 2021 conversation with CNN Chief International Correspondent Clarissa Ward, who shares anecdotes and personal reflections related to her memoir, "On All Fronts: The Education of a Journalist." Ward explains how the attacks on September 11, 2001, prompted her to pursue a career in broadcast journalism, and how she rose through the ranks to become an on-air correspondent. She details her experiences reporting from conflict zones in Iraq, Lebanon and Syria, and what drove her to tell the stories of people living in war-torn areas. Ward also tells Morell about her friendship with American journalist Austin Tice, as well as her efforts to search for Tice after his abduction in Syria in 2012.

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"Best Of" Intelligence Matters: Gayle Tzemach Lemmon Dec 22, 2021

In this 'Best Of' episode of Intelligence Matters, we revisit Michael Morell's February 2021 conversation with Gayle Tzemach Lemmon, author and adjunct senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. They discuss her latest book, The Daughters of Kobani, which tells the story of the Women’s Protection Unit (YPJ) and their fight against ISIS alongside American forces. Lemmon discusses what she describes as the most far reaching experiment in women's equality in the least likely place in the world.

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Former CIA Operations Officer Turned Novelist Jim Lawler Dec 15, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former CIA operations officer Jim Lawler about his years of work on counterproliferation matters and his post-CIA pursuit of writing fictional novels, including “Living Lies: A Novel of the Iranian Nuclear Weapons Program.” Lawler and Morell discuss the similarities between recruiting spies and developing literary plots, as well as why a keen sense of empathy is necessary to be accomplished in each. Lawler tells Morell why he believes the most successful operations officers may have a particular neurological capability for convincing spies to steal secrets, which he calls the “metaphysics of recruitment.”

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China's Ambitions: Graham Allison, Hal Brands and Ketian Zhang Dec 08, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell moderates a conversation among three top experts on China’s geopolitical ambitions and their implications for the United States. Harvard University Professor Graham Allison, Johns Hopkins Professor Hal Brands, and George Mason University Assistant Professor Ketian Zhang discuss President Xi Jinping’s near and long-term political objectives, the domestic challenges he may face, and how the United States should develop its own strategies for confronting or cooperating with Beijing. This episode was produced in partnership with the Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy, and International Security at George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government.

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Dealing with the Taliban: Former Afghanistan Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad Dec 01, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Zalmay Khalilzad, former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. under President George W. Bush and Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation from September 2018 to October 2021. Khalilzad and Morell discuss the history of U.S. engagement in Afghanistan, including in the period during the withdrawal of Soviet forces in 1989, after 9/11, and today. Khalilzad offers new details about the deal his team brokered with the Taliban in 2020 - including the contents of two still-secret annexes - and explains why he believes diplomatic engagement with the Taliban should continue. Khalilzad also reflects on the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan as well as his own role as lead negotiator under Presidents Trump and Biden.

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National Cyber Director Chris Inglis on Stemming Cyber Threats Nov 24, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with the country's first National Cyber Director, Chris Inglis, about his office's mandate, its mission, and the top cyber threats facing the U.S. today. Inglis and Morell discuss the prevalence of ransomware and why countries like Russia and China might tolerate the presence of criminal hackers on their soil. Inglis also details why deterrence in cyberspace is difficult, and how the U.S. government is engaging the private sector to bolster cyber defenses. This episode was produced in partnership with the Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy, and International Security at George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government.

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Defense Intelligence Agency Director LTG Scott Berrier on Global Threats Nov 17, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Lieutenant General Scott Berrier, director of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), about the agency's mission, its workforce, and about the top strategic threats its analysts are tracking today. Morell and Berrier discuss evolving and intensifying threats from China, Russia, Iran and North Korea. Berrier also describes his own professional trajectory and how applicants to DIA can pursue opportunities to work in posts around the world.

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Former Defense Secretary and CIA Director Leon Panetta on Top Security Threats Nov 10, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former Secretary of Defense and CIA Director Leon Panetta and his former Chief of Staff Jeremy Bash about a range of national security threats facing the United States. The three reenact a "PDB briefing" of the sort that took place at Langley in then-Director Panetta's office. Morell, Panetta and Bash discuss the way forward in Afghanistan, the type and variety of threats posed by Vladimir Putin's Russia, the prospect of a nuclear Iran, and the long-term challenge posed by China. They also discuss domestic political divisions that could imperil U.S. stability and security.

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Escalating Tensions with Tehran: Iran Expert Norman Roule Nov 03, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Norman Roule, former senior CIA operations officer and the intelligence community's former senior officer responsible for Iran, about the state of nuclear talks with Tehran and the likely trajectory of continued international diplomatic efforts. Roule explains the recent nuclear advances Iran has made in apparent defiance of global restrictions and discusses its continued funding of proxy militias and aggression toward Israel. Morell and Roule discuss a variety of hypothetical scenarios involving military, covert and cyber actions taken against Tehran.

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Putin's Russia: Former Ambassador Michael McFaul Oct 27, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia and current director of the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies at Stanford University. Morell and McFaul discuss Russian President Vladimir Putin's main geopolitical objectives and personal anxieties about the West. McFaul shares behind-the-scenes details of meeting and negotiating with Putin, as well as thoughts on how the Biden administration should approach its relationship with the Kremlin.

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The Syria Conflict: Former CIA Analyst David McCloskey Oct 20, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with David McCloskey, a former CIA analyst and author of "Damascus Station," a fictional spy novel centered on the civil war in Syria. Morell and McCloskey discuss the history of the Syrian conflict and the United States' engagement there, including key inflection points and how policy decisions made during the Obama administration paved the way for realities on the ground today. McCloskey details his time as an analyst at the agency and decision to become an author.

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CIA Chief Historian David Robarge on Pivotal Global Events Oct 13, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with David Robarge, Chief Historian at the CIA, about the agency’s performance during some of the most important global issues of the last 50 years. Morell and Robarge discuss the insight and warnings CIA provided at pivotal moments during the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Vietnam War, the collapse of the Soviet Union, the first Gulf War, and the September 11, 2001 terror attacks. Robarge explains why the CIA has at times struggled to provide adequate tactical warnings of significant developments.

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Hayden Center Panel on Intelligence and War in Afghanistan Oct 06, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, CBS News Intelligence and National Security Reporter Olivia Gazis interviews three top former intelligence officials about the past, present and future of U.S. engagement in Afghanistan. Panelists Michael Morell, former CIA deputy director and Intelligence Matters host, Michael Vickers, former Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence and CIA operations officer, and Philip Reilly, former Chief of Operations at CIA’s Counterterrorism Center and Kabul station chief, each weigh in on the implications of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and the future of the counterterrorism mission in the region. This episode was produced in partnership with the Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy, and International Security at George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government

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The Insurrectionist Movement in the United States: Professor Robert Pape Sep 29, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Robert Pape, professor of political science at the University of Chicago and Director of the Chicago Project on Security and Threats, about the insurrectionist movement in the United States. Pape reviews the results of recent studies and polls carried out in the aftermath of the January 6 attack on the Capitol and reveals troubling findings about the breadth and depth of anti-government sentiment in the United States. He also describes why more studies are needed to prevent additional violence from targeting the 2022 midterm elections.

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Michael Morell on 9/11, the CIA and Afghanistan: Part 2 Sep 22, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell offers personal reflections in Part Two of a two-part essay on the CIA's strategic warnings before 9/11, the terror plots it helped foil in its aftermath, and its efforts on the ground in Afghanistan post-9/11. Morell offers new details about the CIA's race to gather intelligence on secondary al Qaeda plots targeting the U.S. - including the agency's behind-the-scenes engagements with leaders in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia - and explains why he believes thousands of lives were saved in the immediate post-9/11 period. He also shares his perspective on the agency's Detention and Interrogation program and how it affected CIA's public standing.

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Michael Morell on 9/11, the CIA and Afghanistan: Part 1 Sep 15, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell offers personal reflections in Part One of a two-part essay on the CIA's strategic warnings before 9/11, the terror plots it helped foil in its aftermath, and developments in Afghanistan today. Morell explains why he believes the CIA provided "the loudest and most persistent warning in the history of the agency on any issue" about al Qaeda to both the Clinton and Bush administrations, and outlines the missteps that may have led to the attacks. He also reveals new details about the level of frustration among CIA leadership with inaction by the White House.

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Remembering 9/11 Part 5: Gina Bennett Sep 08, 2021

In the fifth and final installment of our special limited series Intelligence Matters Presents: Remembering 9/11, host Michael Morell speaks with Gina Bennett, one of the longest-serving intelligence analysts on al Qaeda and other terrorist groups. Bennett and Morell discuss how the CIA first became aware of the work of Osama bin Laden, and how the earliest warnings of al Qaeda's ambitions went largely unheeded. Bennett shares recollections from the day of the 9/11 attacks, including how she and CIA colleagues refused to evacuate headquarters despite being told Langley was a credible target.

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Remembering 9/11 Part 4: Sandy Winnefeld Sep 01, 2021

In the fourth installment of our special limited series Intelligence Matters Presents: Remembering 9/11, Michael Morell speaks with Adm. James "Sandy" Winnefeld, former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Commander of the USS Enterprise on September 11, 2001. Winnefeld and Morell discuss the moment the crew became aware of the attacks and how the decision was made to turn the massive aircraft carrier around to position it within striking distance of Afghanistan. Winnefeld also describes his message to the crew ahead of their engagement in the first strikes of the war. Morell and Winnefeld exchange views on recent developments related to the U.S. military drawdown in Afghanistan.

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Remembering 9/11 Part 3: Winston Wiley Aug 25, 2021

In the third installment of our special limited series Intelligence Matters Presents: Remembering 9/11, host Michael Morell speaks with Winston Wiley, the CIA's most senior analyst on 9/11, about his experience on that day. Wiley and Morell discuss the CIA's pre-9/11 focus on al Qaeda how the agency immediately surged resources to counterterrorism efforts after the attacks occurred. They also discuss recent developments in Afghanistan, including the Taliban's takeover of Kabul.

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Remembering 9/11 Part 2: Andy Card Aug 18, 2021

In the second installment of our special limited series Intelligence Matters Presents: Remembering 9/11, host Michael Morell speaks with Andy Card, who served Chief of Staff to President George W. Bush on the day of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Card and Morell walk through the moments that senior officials traveling with the president learned of the planes striking the towers, and the president's reaction upon being informed the country was under attack. They also discuss the tense moments aboard Air Force One in the immediate aftermath of the attacks, as the U.S. government rushed to identify additional threats and to plot a course forward.

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Remembering 9/11 Part 1: Stephen Hadley Aug 11, 2021

In the first installment of our special limited series Intelligence Matters Presents: Remembering 9/11, host Michael Morell speaks with Stephen Hadley, who served as deputy national security advisor to President George W. Bush on the day of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Hadley and Morell walk through the reactions and responses of White House officials who scrambled to understand the scope and origin of the attacks in real time. They also discuss President Bush's early instructions to government agencies and his messages to the shocked and grieving nation.

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Addressing the Ransomware Threat: Cyber Expert Jonathan Levin Aug 04, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Jonathan Levin, a thought leader on cryptocurrencies and the Chief Strategy Officer at Chainalysis, a leading anti-money laundering firm. Morell and Levin discuss the growing, global threat from ransomware and how criminal gangs’ tactics have evolved to target a variety of vulnerable sectors. Levin also explains how cryptocurrencies and blockchain work, and how both can help investigators trace the origins of illicit financial activity.

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Columnist and Foreign Policy Analyst Max Boot on Biden's Foreign Policy Jul 28, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Max Boot, a best-selling author, foreign policy analyst, and columnist for the Washington Post about the Biden administration's foreign policy approach and its likely top challenges. Boot explains why he believes much of the administration's success will depend on repairing domestic partisan divisions, and why winning the respect of the U.S.'s enemies may as important as maintaining the respect of its friends. Boot and Morell also discuss the strategic threat posed by China, Russia and others, as well as the near-term consequences of the administration's decision to complete a military drawdown in Afghanistan.

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The Link Between Energy and National Security: Expert Frank Verrastro Jul 21, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Frank Verrastro, senior advisor on energy issues at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Verrastro offers insights into how shifts in energy supplies and consumption affect national security, and how the trend toward decarbonization may affect dynamics and diplomacy among key global powers. Verrastro and Morell discuss ongoing deliberations with Iran and involving the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, as well as the Biden administration’s push to modernize American energy infrastructure.

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China Expert Matt Turpin on Beijing's Strategic Objectives Jul 14, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Matt Turpin, former U.S. Army officer and an expert on China economic statecraft and technology innovation at the Hoover Institution, about Beijing’s long-term political and economic objectives. Morell and Turpin discuss the changes that accompanied Xi Jinping’s rise to power, as well as the gradual shift in U.S. policy towards Beijing. Turpin offers insights into the priorities and operations of the Chinese Communist Party and explains why he is optimistic about the United States’ ability to compete with China’s vision for the world.

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Former U.S. Treasury Sanctions Chief on Using Financial Tools to Protect National Security Jul 07, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Sigal Mandelker, Former Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence at the U.S. Treasury Department, on the intersection between financial technology and national security. Mandelker explains how incentivizing investment in financial technology is imperative for economic security in the global competition against China. Mandelker discusses her time overseeing the Treasury Department’s sanctions against North Korea and offers thoughts on how the Biden administration can protect the U.S. from ransomware.

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China Expert John Culver on Beijing's Military Prowess Jun 30, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with John Culver, a career CIA analyst, former National Intelligence Officer for East Asia, and leading expert on the Chinese military. Culver and Morell discuss the decades-long modernization of the People’s Liberation Army and the prowess China has attained across multiple war-fighting arenas. Culver offers insights into Xi Jinping’s rise to and continued hold on power, and describes the many challenges of engaging Beijing in a multi-polar, interconnected global system.

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Former Former Middle East Peace Envoy Dennis Ross on Israel's Political Future Jun 23, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Ambassador Dennis Ross, a leading expert on the Middle East, former senior U.S. diplomat and currently counselor and distinguished fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. Ross and Morell discuss recent political changes in Israel, including the outlook for the governing coalition and the background of newly elected prime minister Naftali Bennett. Ross, a former senior adviser on the Middle East to multiple U.S. presidents and secretaries of state, offers observations on Benjamin Netanyahu's future and background on recent tensions in Gaza. Morell and Ross also discuss the prospects for engagement with Iran.

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"Best of" Intelligence Matters: Putin's Russia Jun 16, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, and ahead of the summit between U.S. President Biden and Russian President Putin in Geneva, host Michael Morell revisits three conversations focused on U.S.-Russia relations and Putin's personal trajectory. The episode features insights on U.S. foreign policy priorities vis a vis Moscow from Antony Blinken, now Secretary of State; an analysis of Putin's mindset from Angela Stent, Director of the Center for Eurasian, Russian and East European Studies at Georgetown University; and findings from writer Franklin Foer, who studied Russia's election interference tactics. Morell also offers personal reflections on the presidential summit and ongoing security threats from Russia.

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National Intelligence Officer for North Korea Syd Seiler on Engaging with Pyongyang Jun 09, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Syd Seiler, National Intelligence Officer for North Korea at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Seiler and Morell discuss the political priorities, preferences and fears of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and evaluate the prospects for diplomatic engagement during the Biden administration. Seiler, who has spent over four decades studying the country and its leadership, also shares insights from his travels to Pyongyang and his experience negotiating with North Korean counterparts.

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Author and CNN Chief International Correspondent Clarissa Ward on Reporting from Conflict Zones Jun 02, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with CNN Chief International Correspondent Clarissa Ward, who shares anecdotes and personal reflections related to her memoir, "On All Fronts: The Education of a Journalist." Ward explains how the attacks on September 11, 2001, prompted her to pursue a career in broadcast journalism, and how she rose through the ranks to become an on-air correspondent. She details her experiences reporting from conflict zones in Iraq, Lebanon and Syria, and what drove her to tell the stories of people living in war-torn areas. Ward also tells Morell about her friendship with American journalist Austin Tice, as well as her efforts to search for Tice after his abduction in Syria in 2012.

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Former CIA Analyst and Weapons Expert Maja Lehnus on Thwarting Syria's Nuclear Program May 26, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED: Spy Stories from the Officers Who Were There, former career CIA analyst and non-proliferation expert Maja Lehnus tells the story of one of the intelligence community’s most important discoveries of the last decade – a covert nuclear reactor in the Syrian desert, likely built with support from North Korea. Lehnus tells Morell how U.S. intelligence agencies first acquired intelligence indicating cooperation between North Korean nuclear entities and high-level Syrian officials, and ultimately presented intelligence to the President that the reactor was part of a Syrian nuclear weapons program. Lehnus explains the confidence levels attached to each of the IC’s judgments, as well as why the CIA took the rare step of sharing its findings with the public. Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED is a series dedicated to featuring first-hand accounts from former intelligence officers.

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Military Affairs Reporter Wes Morgan on U.S. Military Involvement in Afghanistan's Pech Valley May 19, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Wes Morgan, military affairs reporter and author of The Hardest Place: The American Military Adrift in Afghanistan's Pech Valley joins Michael Morell to discuss his time as an embedded reporter with U.S. troops in Afghanistan’s Pech Valley. Morgan describes the Pech as a microcosm representing the overall war in Afghanistan, and explains why a lack of information-sharing led to repeated mistakes.Morgan details the tensions between the counterterrorism and counterinsurgency missions as well as the challenges posed by the Afghan terrain.

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Top Counterintelligence Official Michael Orlando on Non-Traditional Collection and China Threats May 12, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Mike Orlando, the acting director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, about the range of foreign espionage threats facing the United States from adversaries and challengers like Russia and China. Orlando and Morell discuss how "non-traditional collectors" within the academic and business sectors are increasingly tasked by foreign governments to steal intellectual property and other secrets. Orlando, a career FBI agent who has specialized in counterintelligence, explains how NCSC has sought to warn U.S. private sector entities against espionage threats that have evolved in range and sophistication.

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9/11 Museum Executive Cliff Chanin on the 10th Anniversary of the Hunt for Bin Laden May 05, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews Cliff Chanin, Executive Vice President and Deputy Director for Museum Programs at the 9/11 Memorial Museum in New York City about the exhibition, 'Revealed: The Hunt for bin Laden.' Chanin and Morell take an audio tour of the exhibition, reviewing key artifacts and the stories behind them. Chanin explains how the museum worked with U.S. intelligence agencies and the military to tell the story of the years-long hunt for the world's most wanted terrorist.

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China Expert Chris Johnson on the Biden Administration's Approach to Beijing Apr 28, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Chris Johnson, senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and a leading expert on China, about the Biden Administration's rhetoric about and actions toward China. Johnson outlines the leading challenges facing the new administration and the views from both Washington and Beijing. He explains how diplomacy has been complicated by some of the scorched earth policies of the Trump administration and domestic considerations related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Johnson and Morell also discuss the overall trajectory of U.S.-China relations in the coming years and decades.

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Tech Giant Eric Schmidt Warns China is Catching Up to the U.S. in A.I. Apr 21, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence Chair and Former CEO of Google Eric Schmidt joins Michael Morell to discuss the importance of investing in artificial intelligence as a national security priority. Schmidt believes China is likely to catch up to the United States in a few years in its artificial intelligence capabilities. He outlines how intelligence and national defense can benefit from superiority in these technologies and the benefits of holding A.I. to American values.

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International and Domestic Terrorist Threats: Deputy Homeland Security Advisor Russ Travers Apr 14, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, President Biden's Deputy Homeland Security Advisor at the National Security Council Russ Travers speaks with host Michael Morell about the varied and diffuse array of terrorist threats to the United States. A career intelligence officer and former acting and deputy director of the National Counterterrorism Center, Travers offers a history of Islamist terrorism and describes how splintered, geographically dispersed networks tied to ISIS and Al Qaeda continue to pose a threat to the U.S.. Travers and Morell also discuss the increase in racially and ethnically motivated attacks by domestic groups, and why preventing them poses a complex set of challenges for U.S. law enforcement and intelligence communities. Travers also shares thoughts on how to responsibly move resources away from counterterrorism toward Great Power competition.

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Maintaining U.S. Technological Superiority: Frances Townsend and Jim Stavridis Apr 07, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, guest host Sandy Winnefeld interviews Frances Townsend, former Homeland Security Advisor to President George W. Bush, and Adm. James Stavridis (ret.), former Supreme Allied Commander at NATO, about their work for the American Edge Project, a political advocacy group that promotes investment in U.S. innovation and technology. Townsend and Stavridis explain the links between technological advancement and national security, and explain why China's autocratic approach to technology in particular poses an increasingly serious threat. They outline several proposals to address known challenges, including the establishment of cyber norms to on-shoring certain critical industries. They also identify priority areas for the Biden administration to address.

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Former Envoy to Global Coalition Against ISIS on the Future of the Syrian Conflict Mar 31, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Ambassador William Roebuck, the former Deputy Special Envoy to the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, former U.S. ambassador to Bahrain, and current executive vice president of the Arab Gulf States Institute. Roebuck provides an intricate history of the conflict in Syria and U.S.-led efforts to battle back the ISIS caliphate. He details his work with U.S. special forces and partners on the ground and discusses the involvement and sacrifices of Kurdish forces in the region. Roebuck also offers thoughts on the Biden administration’s possible approach to resolving the ongoing conflict in Syria.

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What a Seminal Survey Tells Us About the Views of Arab Youth Mar 24, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Sunil John, a leading public relations executive in the Middle East and the driving force behind the Arab Youth Survey, a seminal piece of public opinion research on the views of the largest demographic group in the region. John explains how the survey is administered – in person and across 17 countries – and how it has for years provided an incisive and nuanced look at the thinking of the more than two hundred million young Arabs living and working in the Middle East. John tells Morell how perceptions of the United States have evolved in recent years, explains the “Trump effect” on the views of young Arabs, and addresses what he says are important opportunities for the Biden administration to pursue.

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The Need for Transparency from China on COVID-19 Origins: Geopolitical Expert Jamie Metzl Mar 17, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with Jamie Metzl, geopolitical expert and technology futurist, who argues for transparency and access to resources from China in order to find the origins of COVID-19. Metzl believes the most likely origin of COVID-19 is a lab leak from the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Metzl, a WHO supporter, emphasizes the need for a full, transparent investigation instead of the previous joint expert committee investigation with the Chinese government.

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New Research on the Capitol Insurrection: Political Scientist Bob Pape Mar 10, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews Robert "Bob" Pape, a political science professor at the University of Chicago specializing in international security affairs. He is also the director of the Chicago Project on Security and Threats where he leads a team producing fascinating new research on the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, amongst other things. Pape puts into context how truly historic the storming of the Capitol was and warns of the movement further congealing.

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Congressman Adam Schiff (D-CA) on the Future of the House Intelligence Committee Mar 03, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, in partnership with the Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy, and International Security, Michael Morell spoke with Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee Adam Schiff about the politicization of intelligence and the need to “reset” the committee. Schiff details his support of an airline crash style review to investigate the Solar Winds hack and urges the intelligence community to address the challenge posed by the rise of China.

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Australian Diplomat Nick Warner on His Career in Intelligence Feb 24, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews one of the world's top intelligence officials from down under, Nick Warner. Warner has held senior positions in Australia's diplomatic service, its defense ministry, and its intelligence services. He also served as the director of Australia's equivalent to the CIA, an agency known as ASIS or the Australian Secret Intelligence Service. Warner tells listeners the path he took to becoming a top intelligence official, the importance of the power of the trust, and how he managed to make it out of an Iranian desert stranded.

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The Daughters of Kobani and the Fight Against ISIS: Author Gayle Tzemach Lemmon Feb 17, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters with Michael Morell, author and adjunct senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations Gayle Tzemach Lemmon talks about her new book The Daughters of Kobani. The new release tells the story of the Women’s Protection Unit (YPJ) and their fight against ISIS alongside American forces. Lemmon discusses what she describes as the most far reaching experiment in women's equality in the least likely place in the world.

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DECLASSIFIED: Norman Roule on the Iranian Response to the U.S. Invasion of Iraq Feb 10, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED: Spy Stories from the Agents Who Were There, host Michael Morell interviews Norman "Norm" Roule. Roule spent 34 years working in the CIA where he led as the Iran Mission Manager for the entire intelligence community. After leaving the CIA, Roule joined ODNI as the National Intelligence Manager for Iran from 2008-2017. Currently, he is serving as a Senior Adviser to the Counter Extremism Project and United Against Nuclear Iran. In this episode, you will hear Roule break down past administration failures dealing with Iran, the consequences of inaction, and what Iran hopes for in a future nuclear deal.

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The Existential Threat Of Nuclear Weapons: NTI's Lynn Rusten Feb 03, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell spoke last month with Lynn Rusten, Vice President of the Nuclear Threat Initiative and leader of the Global Nuclear Policy Program, about the state of nuclear proliferation in the world. Rusten warned that experts are not focused on the existential threat of nuclear weapons, examines current nuclear treaties, and recommends starting by repairing alliances.

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The Trump-Biden Foreign Policy Transition: FDD's David Adesnik and John Hannah Jan 27, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews former national security officials John Hannah and David Adesnik, now with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Together, they joined forces as co-editors and have just published a compilation of a set of essays called “From Trump to Biden: The Way Forward for U.S. National Security.” Hannah and Adesnik highlight their concerns for where the nation's national security stands today, and name pros-and-cons the new Biden administration should take away from Trump's time in office.

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The Threat of Bioweapons: West Point Biochemist Dr. Kenneth Wickiser Jan 20, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with Dr. Ken Wickiser, a biochemist and the Associate Dean of Research at the United States Military Academy at West Point, about his piece “Engineered Pathogens and Unnatural Biological Weapons: The Future Threat of Synthetic Biology.” Wickiser describes the growing influence of synthetic biology and what can happen if it gets in the wrong hands.

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A Firsthand Account of the Capitol Insurrection: Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) Jan 13, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger (D-VA). Spanberger, who previously served as an operations officers for the United States Postal Service and as an operations officer for the Central Intelligence Agency, and was inside the House chamber during the assault on the U.S. Capitol. She discusses how her CIA training prepared her for this unprecedented moment in U.S. history, and describes the crucial moments leading up to the evacuation of her and her colleagues.

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American Withdrawal in the Middle East: The Atlantic Council's Will Wechsler Jan 06, 2021

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with Will Wechsler, the director of Middle East programs at the Atlantic Council, about why the Middle East is still of strategic importance to the United States. Wechsler discusses the perception in the Middle East that the U.S. is withdrawing, the influx of young men in the region, and the potential for more negotiations after the Abraham Accords.

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DECLASSIFIED: Former CIA Officer Marc Polymeropoulos on the Triple Agent Dec 30, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews Marc Polymeropoulos, former senior CIA intelligence service officer who had a 26-year career in public service. Marc looks back to the day that seven service members were lost to suicide bomber Humam al-Balawi, who at the time, was working as a double agent. Marc talks about why it was important to interview al-Balawi in person, the mistakes that were made, and what important lessons he still keeps with him.

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A Closer Look at the Killing of Jamal Khashoggi: Filmmaker Bryan Fogel Dec 23, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews director Bryan Fogel. Fogel won an Academy Award for his last film Icarus, and now previews his latest film, The Dissident: The Untold Story of the Murder That Shook the World. Set to be released on January 8th, the movie is based the murder of beloved Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Fogel describes how trust played a key role in obtaining his unprecedented access to Turkish intelligence transcripts on the murder, his inspiration for the movie and what change he hopes will come from the release.

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Disinformation as a National Security Issue: Former NSA General Counsel Glenn Gerstell Dec 16, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with former General Counsel at NSA Glenn Gerstell about why tackling disinformation on social media is a national security issue. Glenn outlines legal, technological and policy approaches the new administration can take to combat the spread of disinformation on social media.

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Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT) on Biden's National Security Team Dec 09, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with Congressman Jim Himes, a member of the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and Chair of the Strategic Technologies and Advanced Research Subcommittee of HPSCI. Congressman Himes discusses coronavirus as a national security threat, re-building trust in the intelligence community, and his confidence in Biden’s national security team.

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Ambassador Ronald Neumann on Reducing Troops in Afghanistan Dec 02, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with Ambassador Ronald Neumann, Former Ambassador to Afghanistan, Algeria, and Bahrain, about U.S. national security interests in Afghanistan as the Trump administration announces a reduction of troops in the region. Neumann discusses potential repercussions of lowering U.S. troops, advice to the Biden Administration, and the possibility of a civil war in Afghanistan.

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DECLASSIFIED: Former CIA Officer on the Anniversary of the First American Casualty in Afghanistan Nov 25, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters: Declassified, Michael Morell speaks with David Tyson, a retired CIA officer who served in Afghanistan after 9/11. Tyson joins Michael on the anniversary of the death of fellow CIA officer, Mike Spann, the first American casualty in Afghanistan. Tyson recounts the story of Spann’s death, the battle that lead to it, and how he honors Spann’s legacy today.

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North Korea's Impending Threat of Provocation: Korea Expert Sue Mi Terry Nov 18, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell interviews Senior Fellow and Korea Chair at CSIS Sue Mi Terry on the threats North Korea poses to U.S. National Security. They discuss the growing advancement of North Korea’s nuclear missile program as U.S. attempts for negotiating denuclearization halt. Terry expresses concern over a potential provocation from North Korea during the Biden administration transition and recommends that President Elect Biden “send a signal to North Korea to not conduct a provocation.”

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The State of the U.S.-China Rivalry: Harvard Professor Graham Allison Nov 11, 2020

In our series leading up to the inauguration, host Michael Morell evaluates the state of the field for top national security issues facing the U.S. in the next presidential term. In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Morell interviews Harvard Professor of Government Graham Allison about the enduring U.S.-China rivalry. Allison is a leading analyst of national security with special interests in nuclear weapons and China, and Former Assistant Secretary of Defense under President Clinton and Special Advisor to the Secretary of Defense under President Reagan. Allison describes a new climate change M.A.D. policy, China’s attempt to ascend to the centerpiece of the international order, and strategies to avoid a nuclear war with China.

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Lieutenant General (Ret.) H.R. McMaster on Post-Election Foreign Policy Nov 04, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews Retired Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster, a Senior Fellow at both Stanford University's Hoover Institution and its Graduate School of Business. A career U.S. Army officer and National Security Adviser to President Trump, he is also the author of a newly-released book titled Battlegrounds: The Fight to Defend the Free World. General McMaster passes along advice on how the next president should handle relations with North Korea's Kim Jong Un, gives insight on the effectiveness of our handling of Russia, and shares his passion for helping those in Venezuela.

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Foreign Interference in the 2020 Election: Former FBI Special Agent Clint Watts Oct 28, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews former FBI Special Agent Clint Watts, current Distinguished Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute and Non-Resident Fellow at the Alliance for Securing Democracy and author of Messing With The Enemy: Surviving in a Social Media World of Hackers, Terrorists, Russians and Fake News. Watts offers his analysis of Russia, China, and Iran and their respective threats to election security. He discusses Russian disinformation on social media, concerns about China, and fears about the implications of the lack of unity inside the United States.

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DECLASSIFIED: Former CIA Analyst Kristin Wood on Post 9/11 Briefings Oct 21, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters: Declassified host Michael Morell interviews Kristin Wood, career analyst and manager of analyst at the Central Intelligence Agency. Wood looks back at the time she spent as Scooter Libby's briefer and Vice President Cheney's backup briefer. Both roles she played during the time of the 9/11 attacks. Post 9/11 there was a push by top officials to connect Iraq with al-Qaeda's role in the attacks, a push that led to the "Murkey Water Papers" being published. A report she says now, in hindsight, she would not do. "It was written in the context of some of the administration using questionable intelligence reports to justify their views that Iraq was somehow complicit in the 9/11 attacks."

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MBS and the Future of Saudi Arabia: Journalists Bradley Hope and Justin Scheck Oct 14, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews Bradley Hope and Justin Scheck, reporters for The Wall Street Journal and co-authors of Blood and Oil: Mohammed Bin Salman's Ruthless Quest for Global Power, about the leadership style and strategic decision-making of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman (MBS). Hope and Scheck offer their assessment of the "dichotomy" of MBS, explaining how he has behaved as both a great reformer and ruthless dictator. They also discuss MBS’s likely awareness of the murder of dissident Jamal Khashoggi, his views on political reform, and attempts to diversify the Saudi economy.

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Former CIA Director John Brennan on the Ethics of Intelligence & Challenges to Democracy Oct 07, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews John Brennan, career intelligence officer and former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. Brennan, who led the agency during the Obama administration from 2013 to 2017, offers new insights into the intelligence community's assessments of Russia's interference in the 2016 election, shares concerns about the potential politicization of the community's work, and discusses the merits of pursuing a career in national security. Brennan, now retired, also discusses details included in his new memoir, UNDAUNTED: My Fight Against America’s Enemies, at Home and Abroad.

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Former Daily Intelligence Briefer David Priess on the Past and Future of the PDB Sep 30, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews David Priess, former daily intelligence briefer, CIA officer and now Chief Operating Officer of the Lawfare Institute, about the history, content and aim of the President's Daily Brief (PDB), one of the intelligence community's most valuable and highly classified products. Priess, whose book “The President’s Book of Secrets” delves into the history and recipients of the top-secret document, explains how it evolved, what goes into producing it, and how presidents have consumed it. Priess and Morell also discuss the process for briefing presidential candidates and concerns about the politicization of intelligence.

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Biden Foreign Policy Advisor Antony Blinken on Top Global Challenges Sep 23, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Antony "Tony" Blinken, former deputy Secretary of State and current Foreign Policy Advisor for the Joe Biden for President campaign. Morell and Blinken discuss a potential Biden administration's foreign policy priorities and its likely approach to top global security challenges, including climate change, armed conflicts, and strategic threats from China, Russia, Iran and North Korea. Blinken also details the Vice President's likely approach to the U.S. intelligence, diplomatic and military communities. A corresponding interview request has been extended to the Trump White House, and is pending.

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DECLASSIFIED: Ret. Adm. Bill McRaven and Michael Morell on the Raid on Osama bin Laden's Compound Sep 16, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED: Spy Stories from the Officers Who Were There, CBS News Intelligence and National Security Reporter Olivia Gazis interviews Michael Morell and retired Admiral Bill McRaven about the raid on the complex in Abbottabad, Pakistan that brought Osama bin Laden to justice nearly a decade ago. Morell and McRaven discuss the initial tip obtained by the CIA, the agency's development of the intelligence, the initial briefings of President Obama, and the military operation devised and executed by the Joint Special Operations Command. They also offer behind-the-scenes details about key players and pivotal moments in the raid. This episode was produced in partnership with the Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy, and International Security at George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government. Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED is a new series dedicated to featuring first-hand accounts from former intelligence officers.

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Historian Hal Brands on COVID-19's Effect on World Order Sep 09, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Hal Brands, historian and the Henry A. Kissinger Distinguished Professor of Global Affairs at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, about a new compilation of essays dedicated to the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on international security and world order. Brands, who co-edited the volume with colleague Francis Gavin, outlines the its major themes and observations, including how the outbreak may pose opportunities as well as challenges and how it may lead to a global counterbalancing coalition against a rising China. Brands also tells Morell how U.S. leadership, both domestic and international, will be pivotal to ensuring successful near- and long-term outcomes.

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Former CIA Analyst Rodney Faraon on Transferring Skills Beyond Government Sep 02, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews Rodney Faraon, a former China analyst and 15-year veteran of the CIA, about how he transferred skills he developed at the agency to a variety of roles outside of government. Faraon, now a partner at Martin+Crumpton Group LLC, also held roles at Walt Disney Company and in the film and investment industries. Faraon tells Morell about his experience briefing former Director of Central Intelligence George Tenet and drafting testimony for the annual Worldwide Threats Hearing,

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DECLASSIFIED: Former CIA Officer Daniel Hoffman on the Hunt for the "Russian Ten" Aug 26, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED: Spy Stories from the Officers Who Were There, host Michael Morell interviews former CIA Senior Clandestine Services Officer Daniel Hoffman about the FBI and CIA's decade-long hunt for ten Russian "illegals" living and operating in the United States. A former Chief of Station, Hoffman tells Morell how a group of Russian intelligence officers came to pose as American citizens all over the country, and spent years stealing secrets to send back to Moscow. Hoffman explains how they were monitored and eventually caught, and details the negotiations that ultimately led to a prisoner swap with Russia. Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED is a new series dedicated to featuring first-hand accounts from former intelligence officers.

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Senior NSA Official Anne Neuberger on Cyber and Election Threats Aug 19, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Anne Neuberger, Director of the National Security Agency's Cybersecurity Directorate, details her trajectory from the agency's Chief Risk Officer, to the lead on election security in 2018, to the head of the agency's newly revamped cybersecurity mission. She tells Morell what lessons were learned about deterring Russia during the 2018 midterm elections and how the Cybersecurity Directorate seeks to help the public and private sectors defend themselves against foreign cyber threats. She also explains why the NSA is looking to shed some of its secretive reputation, and adjust to a rapidly changing technological environment.

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The National Security Implications of Climate Change: Environmentalist Bill McKibben Aug 12, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews author and environmentalist Bill McKibben about the national security implications of climate change, including how current trends, if unchecked, could lead to future catastrophes. McKibben explains why taking certain actions immediately and for the next ten years is crucial in order to forestall mass migrations, crop shortages and deadly droughts. He shares his views on the troubling parallels between climate change and certain accelerating technologies like genetic modification.

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DECLASSIFIED: Former FBI Agent Bradley Garrett on the Global Manhunt for Mir Aimal Kansi Aug 05, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED: Spy Stories from the Officers Who Were There, host Michael Morell interviews former FBI agent Bradley Garrett, who recounts one of the most high-profile homicide cases he worked over the course of his career at FBI. He describes the global manhunt for Mir Aimal Kansi, who was put to death for killing two CIA officers outside Langley headquarters in 1993. Garrett tells Morell how he forged a relationship with Kansi to extract his confession -- and wound up being, at Kansi's request, one of few people present at his execution in 2002. Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED is new series dedicated to featuring first-hand accounts from former intelligence officers.

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Author Robert Draper on What Led the U.S. to War in Iraq Jul 29, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews journalist Robert Draper, author of To Start a War: How the Bush Administration Took America into Iraq. Draper and Morell discuss the key players, events and decisions that led to the George W. Bush administration's invasion of Iraq more than 15 years ago. Draper details the positions held by top policymakers and U.S intelligence agencies, and explains why he believes certain failures came to pass.

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Top Epidemiologist Dr. Michael Osterholm on the Continuing Challenges of COVID-19 Jul 22, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with top infectious disease epidemiologist Dr. Michael Osterholm, who is also director of the Center for Infectious Disease at the University of Minnesota, about the knowns and unknowns, to date, of COVID-19. Dr. Osterholm reviews the latest data on infection and transmission rates, the likelihood of an effective vaccine, and explains what needs to happen before contact tracing can be effective. He and Morell discuss the U.S. policy response, the need for leadership, and what other challenges remain to containing the coronavirus' spread.

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DECLASSIFIED: Martin Petersen on the Tiananmen Crisis and Training CIA Analysts Jul 15, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED: Spy Stories from the Officers Who Were There, host Michael Morell interviews Martin Petersen, former senior CIA intelligence officer and Asia expert who spent over three decades at the agency. Petersen recounts the agency's early assessments of unrest that led to the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests in China. Morell and Petersen discuss the training CIA analysts receive and Petersen shares the remarks he would make to all entering analyst classes. Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED is new series dedicated to featuring first-hand accounts from former intelligence officers.

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Russia, Afghanistan and Prospects for Peace: Amb. James Cunningham Jul 08, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with James Cunningham, former U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan, Israel and the United Nations. Morell and Cunningham review the country's efforts at arriving at a peace deal with the Taliban and the Afghan government, and explore why a deal remains elusive. They also examine the obstacles to an Israeli-Palestinian peace deal, China's crackdown on Hong Kong, and Russia's interests in the Middle East. Cunningham offers views on the future of U.S. diplomacy.

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100 Years of Russian Electoral Interference: Author David Shimer Jul 01, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with David Shimer, author of Rigged: America, Russia and 100 Years of Covert Electoral Interference. Shimer provides examples of Russian and American electoral interference in countries around the world over nearly a century. He explains how Russia's playbook has been applied repeatedly and in novel ways to influence American democratic processes -- including in 2016. Morell and Shimer discuss ways the U.S. should seek to bolster its defenses against new potential Russian incursions in 2020.

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DECLASSIFIED: Sarah Carlson on Escaping War-Torn Libya Jun 24, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED: Spy Stories from the Officers Who Were There, host Michael Morell interviews Sarah Carlson, former CIA Targeting Analyst and author of "In the Dark of War: A CIA Officer's Inside Account of the U.S. Evacuation from Libya." Carlson recounts the harrowing 2014 decision to remove U.S. personnel from war-torn Libya, which included numerous tense negotiations with local militia leaders and the movement of a multi-vehicle convoy from Tripoli to Tunis -- and, in the end, may have saved over a hundred American lives. Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED is new series dedicated to featuring first-hand accounts from former intelligence officers.

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DECLASSIFIED: Former CIA Museum Curator Toni Hiley Jun 17, 2020

In the premiere episode of Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED: Spy Stories from the Officers Who Were There, host Michael Morell interviews Toni Hiley, the former curator of the CIA's private museum, located at its headquarters in Langley, Virginia. Hiley takes listeners on a tour of the agency's most important exhibits and artifacts, explaining the historical context and personal stories behind each. Morell and Hiley explore pivotal events and the officers who witnessed them from World War II, the Cold War and the aftermath of 9/11. Intelligence Matters DECLASSIFIED is a new series dedicated to featuring first-hand accounts from former intelligence officers.

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Putin's Playbook in 2020: Journalist Franklin Foer Jun 10, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Franklin Foer, journalist and staff writer for The Atlantic, about America's preparedness for potential Russian election interference in 2020. Foer, whose latest piece, "Putin Is Well on his Way to Stealing the Next Election," examined the lingering vulnerabilities in U.S. election systems, explains where weaknesses still exist and how Russian operatives may be altering their tactics ahead of the presidential election. He also discusses the potential effects of widespread civil unrest in the U.S. and global turbulence related to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as how Putin's own domestic standing may affect his approach.

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Securing Businesses and the 2020 Elections Amid COVID-19: CISA Director Chris Krebs Jun 03, 2020

*PLEASE NOTE: This interview was taped last week, before nationwide protests in response to the death of George Floyd began.*

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Chris Krebs speaks with Michael Morell about securing the operations and data of businesses and government agencies as they have adopted teleworking and other protocols amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Krebs also explains how foreign adversaries and hackers have targeted vaccine and treatment research at health care institutions across the country. Morell and Krebs review the preparations being made to protect the 2020 presidential election and discuss the interference campaigns expected from foreign adversaries.

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Election Security 2020: How Prepared is the U.S. to Confront Foreign Threats? May 27, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Laura Rosenberger, Senior Fellow and Director of the Alliance for Securing Democracy at the nonpartisan German Marshall Fund of the United States. Rosenberger details the breadth of foreign interference threats the U.S. faces ahead of the 2020 presidential election from known actors like Russia, China, Iran and others. Morell and Rosenberger assess the preparedness of the U.S. to respond to those threats and the overall resilience of the public in the face of increasingly sophisticated disinformation campaigns. They also examine whether the U.S. should consider responding to those campaigns in kind.

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The Health, Economic and Political Effects of COVID-19 in Iran: Karim Sadjadpour May 20, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Karim Sadjadpour, Iran policy analyst and senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Morell and Sadjadpour review the effects of the spread of coronavirus within Iran, including the toll it has taken on senior leadership and the unrest it has generated among its populace. Sadjadpour also discusses Iran's behavior regionally and vis a vis the United States following the January killing of General Qassem Soleimani. He tells Morell why the virus outbreak may accelerate Iran's transition to a military dictatorship and why a change in U.S. policy may not prompt a different reaction from Tehran.

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Containing COVID-19: Top Epidemiologist Dr. Michael Osterholm May 13, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with top infectious disease epidemiologist Dr. Michael Osterholm, who is also director of the Center for Infectious Disease at the University of Minnesota, about the world's past, present and future handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Osterholm and Morell discuss the essential, still unanswered, questions surrounding vaccine and antiviral production and their manufacturing and distribution to the cities and countries that need them most. Osterholm explains why this virus is unlike any predecessor, and why so many mysteries about its transmission remain. He also explains how China's early handling of the outbreak may or may not have affected the effectiveness of other countries' responses. Intelligence Matters has dedicated a series of episodes to understanding the fundamentals and national security implications of COVID-19.

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Bonus Pod: The Global National Security Implications of COVID-19 May 08, 2020

In this bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell offers an in-depth analysis of seven potential national security consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. He describes, among other factors, the possible effects of a prolonged financial crisis, of growing political instability, of escalating conflict in global hotspots, of the threat of a reconstitution of ISIS, and of the consequences of sustained tension in the US-China relationship. He also discusses the role of the United States in navigating an expected period of global turbulence.

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China Expert Chris Johnson on Beijing's Handling of COVID-19 May 06, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Chris Johnson, Senior Fellow at the Center for Strategic & International Studies and former senior China analyst at the Central Intelligence Agency, about China's internal handling of COVID-19, its subsequent messaging efforts, and the current state of U.S.-China relations. Johnson explains how Xi Jinping's leadership has affected both the domestic and diplomatic responses by Beijing to the outbreak. He also explains some of the likely near-term economic consequences of the pandemic. Johnson and Morell evaluate the state of the relationship between China and the U.S., as well as its likely trajectory. Intelligence Matters will dedicate several forthcoming episodes to understanding the fundamentals and national security implications of COVID-19.

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Economist Olivier Blanchard on Global Economic Effects of COVID-19 Apr 29, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Olivier Blanchard, former chief economist for the International Monetary Fund and Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. Blanchard and Morell discuss the near- and long-term global economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the policy response from governments, and the prospects for an eventual recovery. Blanchard also explains recent turbulence in global oil markets and the vulnerabilities specific to lower-income economies. Intelligence Matters will dedicate several forthcoming episodes to understanding the fundamentals and national security implications of COVID-19.

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The Global National Security Effects of COVID-19: Former CIA Deputy Director Director John McLaughlin Apr 22, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former CIA deputy director John McLaughlin about the immediate and long-term effects the COVID-19 pandemic may have on global national security. McLaughlin and Morell focus on tensions within the U.S.-China relationship that the outbreak has exacerbated, as well as efforts by adversaries like Russia, Iran and North Korea to further destabilize the world order. McLaughlin shares views on the value of leadership to coordinate a response, and voices concerns about a potential void left by an America-First policy. Intelligence Matters will dedicate several forthcoming episodes to understanding the fundamentals and national security implications of COVID-19.

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Pandemic Preparedness & Response: Former WH Homeland Security Advisor Lisa Monaco Apr 15, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former White House Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Advisor Lisa Monaco about pandemic preparedness and response by the federal government. Monaco, who helped oversee the Obama Administration's response efforts during the Ebola and Zika outbreaks, explains which government agencies play key roles in managing public health crises and preparing for future outbreaks. She shares lessons learned by the teams she led and details of their transition to the Trump administration. She also discusses the current government response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Intelligence Matters will dedicate several forthcoming episodes to understanding the fundamentals and national security implications of COVID-19.

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Dr. David Agus on the Knowns and Unknowns of COVID-19 Apr 08, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews Dr. David Agus, Professor of Medicine and Engineering and Founding Director and CEO of the Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine at the University of Southern California. Dr. Agus, who is also a CBS News contributor, explains what scientists have learned about the origins, spread, transmissibility and lethality of COVID-19 -- as well as what remains a mystery. He discusses the policies and practices that have led to successful mitigation efforts and explains how data may be used to better control future global health crises. Intelligence Matters will dedicate several forthcoming episodes to understanding the fundamentals and national security implications of COVID-19.

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"Best Of" Intelligence Matters: CIA's Top Recruiter Sheronda Dorsey Apr 01, 2020

In this revamped episode of Intelligence Matters — re-released while the world contends with the COVID-19 pandemic and the podcast has temporarily suspended new production — host Michael Michael reflects on a July 2018 conversation with CIA's Chief of Talent Acquisition, Sheronda Dorsey, who explains how the agency finds, trains and retains its global network of employees. Morell offers new perspective on the importance of the work of intelligence agencies during a global health crisis.

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"Best Of" Intelligence Matters: Anthony Fauci Mar 25, 2020

In this revamped episode of Intelligence Matters — re-released while the world contends with the COVID-19 pandemic and the podcast has temporarily suspended new production — host Michael Michael reflects on a 2018 conversation with Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and, in 2020, leading member of the White House Coronavirus Task Force. Morell and Fauci discuss how pandemics and epidemics arise and how their spread can affect national and international security.

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Ret. Gen. Phil Breedlove on Engaging Russia, China, North Korea Mar 18, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, retired Admiral Sandy Winnefeld speaks with retired General Philip Breedlove, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, Europe and Commander of U.S. European Command, about the trajectories of the United States' relationships with North Korea, China, Russia, Europe, and other adversaries and partners. Breedlove addresses the leadership characteristics and regional objectives of each nation and assesses U.S. engagement to date. He and Winnefeld also discuss the U.S. military's capabilities and readiness for potential confrontation with key adversaries. Breedlove reflects on his career at all levels of the U.S. Air Force.

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Former Deputy Secretary of Defense Robert Work on New Technologies and Military Readiness Mar 11, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, guest host Adm. James "Sandy" Winnefeld (ret.) speaks with Robert Work, the 32nd United States Deputy Secretary of Defense for both the Obama and Trump administration. Work and Winnefeld discuss the Pentagon's "Third Offset" Strategy, and delve into the military applications and ethical dimensions of technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum science. They also review the Defense Department's transition from focusing on counterterrorism and counterinsurgency to great power competition. Work, now the Distinguished Senior Fellow for Defense and National Security at the Center for a New American Security, explains how Russia and China are developing a range of technologies in an effort to leapfrog the U.S. in the military realm.

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Washington Post Columnist David Ignatius on Journalism, the Middle East and Spy Fiction Mar 04, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with David Ignatius, award-winning foreign affairs columnist for the Washington Post and best-selling author of more than ten spy novels. Morell and Ignatius discuss the mechanics of national security journalism and Ignatius’ experience reporting from the Middle East. They discuss the current leadership and dynamics of Iran, Saudi Arabia and Israel and Palestine. They also discuss Ignatius’ success as a writer of spy fiction, including his forthcoming novel, The Paladin.

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Africa Expert Judd Devermont on the Continent's Security Challenges and Cooperation Opportunities Feb 26, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Judd Devermont, director of the Africa Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and a former senior analyst in the intelligence community. Devermont discusses areas of instability on the continent and the areas where the U.S. has an opportunity to pursue national interests. He reviews areas of progress and setbacks in governance and security, and explains why he believes there has been a ‘democratization of leadership’ in Africa. Devermont also reviews Chinese and Russian investments and operations on the continent, and explains why they each have significant long-term implications for U.S. security.

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Tech Expert Ben Buchanan on the Links Between Artificial Intelligence and National Security Feb 19, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Ben Buchanan, Assistant Teaching Professor at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and Senior Fellow at the University’s Center for Security Studies. Morell and Buchanan discuss the intersection of technology and statecraft, focusing on the potential effect artificial intelligence-driven technologies may have on the geopolitical dynamics among nations. Buchanan reviews some of the central questions surrounding AI, including how autocratic governments and democratic governments may leverage it and how offensive cyber operations may come to rely on it. Buchanan also shares elements of his forthcoming book, The Hacker and the State.

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Former PDDNI Sue Gordon on Intelligence Challenges and Career Milestones Feb 14, 2020

In this bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews former Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence Sue Gordon at the Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy And International Security at George Mason University’s Schar School Of Policy And Government. Morell and Gordon discuss the importance and evolution of the craft of intelligence, the effect of technological change, and the need to make unclassified intelligence available to a broader customer base. Gordon discusses her time in government – spanning seven presidencies – and the circumstances of her departure from the role of PDDNI last year.

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Journalist Robert Worth on Profiling Mohammed bin Zayed Feb 12, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with author and journalist Robert Worth, who conducted a rare interview with the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Mohammed bin Zayed, for a profile featured in the New York Times Magazine. Worth, who previously worked as the New York Times’ Beirut bureau chief, explains the internal politics of and regional dynamics surrounding the United Arab Emirates, and explains why M.B.Z. is among the most powerful Arab leaders today. He also shares unpublished anecdotes from his reporting.

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Former Senior Pentagon Official-Turned-Congressional Candidate on Running for Office Feb 05, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Evelyn Farkas, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia, Ukraine, Eurasia during the Obama administration and current Democratic candidate for New York’s 17th Congressional District. Morell and Farkas discuss the recent surge in congressional candidates with backgrounds in national security and the rigors of pursuing elective office. Farkas shares her views on the Trump administration’s strategies vis a vis Iran, Russia and China. She also weighs in on ongoing election security threats and the security risks posed by climate change.

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Former National Security Advisors on Challenges for the Next Commander In Chief Jan 29, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with two former top White House officials – Stephen Hadley, National Security Advisor to President George W. Bush, and Tom Donilon, National Security Advisor to President Barack Obama – on the top national security and foreign policy threats likely to be faced by the next commander in chief. Donilon, Hadley and Morell discuss the U.S. strategy to engage with China from a diplomatic, economic, technological and military perspective. They exchange views on the way forward in nuclear talks with North Korea. They also evaluate options for dealing with Iran in the aftermath of the U.S. strike on Gen. Qassem Soleimani. Donilon and Hadley stress the need for better communication and civic engagement among U.S. constituencies.

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Top Election Security Executive Shelby Pierson on Past, Present and Future Threats Jan 22, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Shelby Pierson, a career intelligence official recently named the Intelligence Community Election Threats Executive within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Pierson details past, present and future election security threats facing the United States, and explains how the intelligence community has partnered with other government agencies to boost visibility into foreign interference efforts. She explains how the threat landscape has broadened since 2016, and tells Morell what new vectors foreign adversaries may consider using in 2020. Pierson also offers new insights into Russia’s systematic efforts to interfere in the 2016 and 2018 midterm elections. This is the latest installment of a continuing series on "Leadership of the IC," featuring currently-serving senior leadership within the U.S. intelligence community.

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Defense Intelligence Agency Director Lt. Gen. Robert Ashley on DIA's Core Mission Jan 15, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Lt. Gen. Robert Ashley, director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, about the agency's analytic and collection missions, its role within the broader intelligence community, and its top areas of focus today. Ashley and Morell discuss the growing number of contested domains and numerous technological challenges with which the U.S. military is actively grappling. They also review near and long-term challenges from Russia, China, ISIS and Iran, including the aftermath of the Trump administration’s strike on Iranian general Qassem Soleimani.

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Samantha Power on Public Service, Human Rights and Global Stability Jan 08, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and senior Obama administration official Samantha Power speaks with host Michael Morell about a wide range of topics, including how the promotion of human rights bolsters global stability. Power and Morell discuss the value of public service and the importance of the rule of law. They also review some of the key foreign policy decisions made by the Obama administration. Power shares anecdotes from her latest book, “The Education of an Idealist: A Memoir.”

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Former Head of Digital Innovation at CIA on the Challenges of Technological Change Jan 01, 2020

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Sean Roche, a recently-retired senior CIA official who ran the agency’s digital innovation arm. Roche, who spent nearly 30 years at the agency, discusses the early, internal preparations the CIA made in anticipation of both technological challenges and new opportunities in the digital domain – including the creation of the CIA’s first new directorate in more than 50 years. Roche also discusses evolving cyber threats from nation state and non-nation state actors.

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Iran Expert Barbara Slavin on Tehran's Potential Path Forward Dec 25, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Barbara Slavin, former journalist and Director of the ‘Future of Iran Initiative’ at the Atlantic Council, a think tank in Washington, DC. Morell and Slavin assess the U.S. foreign policy posture toward Iran and the effect of diplomatic efforts made to date. Slavin offers insight into Tehran’s calculus as the 2020 presidential elections approach, as well as its rapprochement with Russia and China. She also outlines Tehran’s likely regional and global objectives in the near term.

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Ambassador Susan Rice on Her Career, U.S. Foreign Policy and America's Role in the World Dec 18, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Susan Rice, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and National Security Advisor to President Obama. Rice discusses her career trajectory and some of the major foreign policy decisions she helped inform while serving in the Obama administration. Morell and Rice discuss the value of alliance networks and America's global leadership role. Rice also shares anecdotes from her new memoir, Tough Love: My Story of the Things Worth Fighting For.

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House Armed Services Committee Chairman Adam Smith on Pentagon Oversight Dec 11, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA), the current chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. Rep. Smith, who has served on the committee for over two decades, discusses the work of overseeing the U.S. military and the late-stage negotiations of the annual National Defense Authorization Act. He and Morell also discuss near- and long-term strategic challenges for the Pentagon, including threats from Russia, China, Iran and North Korea, as well as those stemming from artificial intelligence, quantum computing and hypersonic weapons.

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Former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Adm. Stavridis on the Value of Alliances Dec 04, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with retired four-star U.S. Navy Admiral James Stavridis, who also served as the former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO and was dean of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. Morell and Stavridis discuss the value of alliances and the strategic foreign policy challenges facing the United States. They also discuss the importance of character and excerpts of Adm. Stavridis’ new book, “Sailing True North: Ten Admirals and the Voyage of Character.”

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Democratic Presidential Candidate Michael Bennet on Foreign Policy and National Security Priorities Nov 27, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Michael Bennet, U.S. Senator from Colorado and a current Democratic presidential candidate. Morell and Bennet discuss the state of American politics and the ideologies and objectives that would define a Bennet administration. Bennet, who was recently added to the Senate Intelligence Committee, discusses the state of U.S. election security and his priorities for confronting Russia, China, Iran and North Korea. Bennet also discusses his views of alliances and plans for bolstering global stability.

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North Korea Update: Expert Sue Mi Terry Nov 20, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Sue Mi Terry, senior fellow for Korea at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. A former senior CIA analyst, Terry explains why the U.S.-North Korea talks are at a stalemate after months of negotiations and three historic summits between President Trump and Chairman Kim Jong-un. Terry tells Morell Kim has not taken a single step toward denuclearization, nor has he made the strategic decision to renounce his nuclear weapons program, all while continuing to test shorter-range missiles. Terry also outlines concerns about regional proliferation and the prospects of arriving at an interim nuclear deal before the 2020 election.

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Former Head of FBI National Security Division on International and Domestic Terrorism Nov 13, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Carl Ghattas, former executive assistant director of the FBI's National Security Branch, about the bureau's efforts to combat international and domestic terrorism. Ghattas explains how the FBI balances efforts to investigate crimes already committed with those intended to prevent new terror attacks. Morell and Ghattas also discuss the challenges related to the spread of violent ideologies through social and other online media.

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China Expert Chris Johnson on President Xi, Propaganda and A Potential Trade Deal Nov 06, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Chris Johnson, senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and former CIA senior China analyst, about the state of play in U.S.-China relations. Johnson offers a portrait of President Xi, who has consolidated power and alliances domestically and throughout the region, and discusses the Chinese Communist Party's efforts to make its own case globally. Johnson and Morell also discuss the latest on the emerging U.S.-China trade deal, Beijing's response to the Hong Kong protests, and the attention paid overseas to the ongoing impeachment inquiry in the U.S.

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Former Head of FBI Counterintelligence Bill Priestap on Top Spy Threats Oct 31, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Bill Priestap, the former head of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division, speaks with host Michael Morell about the evolving counterintelligence challenges facing the United States. Priestap, now a Centennial Fellow with Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service, explains how nation-state adversaries are extending their reach beyond traditional espionage channels to target diplomatic, military, business and academic sectors to collect intelligence on U.S. targets. Priestap explains why the lack of immediacy that is characteristic of “gradual” espionage efforts means some of the damage it can cause is undetected, and tells Morell why the academic sector may be particularly vulnerable to the theft of secrets.

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Bonus Pod: Michael Morell's Takeaways from the al-Baghdadi Raid Oct 29, 2019

In this bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell discusses the implications of the death of ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, including the U.S. raid’s operational details and how the terror group’s senior leadership may respond. Morell, who was deputy director of the CIA when Osama bin Laden was brought to justice in 2015, evaluates the intelligence collection opportunities that resulted and makes observations about current U.S. counterterrorism efforts.

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Former Secretary of Defense James Mattis on Syria, Leadership and Top National Security Threats Oct 23, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, former Secretary of Defense Gen. James Mattis (ret) speaks with host Michael Morell about his military career, and the value of strategic leadership, and the top national security challenges facing the country. The former U.S. Marine Corps general addresses the Trump administration’s the recent decision to withdraw U.S. forces from Syria and the ongoing threat posed by ISIS. Mattis explains why he believes members of the military should refrain from engaging in political criticism and discusses with Morell how the state of domestic politics has affected U.S. national security.

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Former Senior CIA Operations Officer Marc Polymeropoulos on Recruiting and Running Spies Oct 16, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former senior CIA operations officer Marc Polymeropoulos, who retired from the agency in June after nearly three decades of service in a number of overseas posts. Polymeropoulos discusses the training he received at CIA, the art of recruiting and running assets, and the value of human spies. He discusses some of his assignments while overseas and addresses questions about politics and morale at the agency. Morell and Polymeropoulos also discuss the intelligence implications of the Trump administration’s decision to pull U.S. forces out of Syria.

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Deep Dive with Experts Kurt Campbell and Jake Sullivan on U.S.-China Relations Oct 09, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Kurt Campbell, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Asia Group, and Jake Sullivan, former national security advisor to Vice President Joe Biden and director of policy planning at the U.S. State Department, about U.S.-China relations and the long-term strategic threat posed by Beijing. Morell, Campbell and Sullivan discuss the variety of foreign policy challenges facing the Trump administration and the evolving strategies to confront China being discussed.

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Bonus Pod: 9/11 Memorial Museum Panel on CIA's Response to the September 11 Attacks Oct 07, 2019

In this bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell appears alongside former CIA Acting Director John McLaughlin and former CIA Senior Paramilitary Officer Phil Reilly at a panel discussion at the 9/11 Memorial Museum, held in partnership with the CIA. Morell, McLaughlin and Reilly each discuss their recollections from both the September 11, 2011 attacks and their immediate aftermath, as well as how the work of intelligence collection and analysis was immediately and irrevocably changed.

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Ret. Adm. Bill McRaven on Leadership, Living History and A Life of Service Oct 02, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with retired U.S. Navy Admiral William “Bill” McRaven, who served as commander of U.S. Special Operations Command from 2011 and 2014. The former Navy SEAL and four-star admiral discusses his family’s military history and his own experiences during some of the most well-known missions of his nearly 40-year career – including the Osama bin Laden Raid and the capture of Saddam Hussein. Morell and McRaven also discuss leadership, service and McRaven’s latest book, “Sea Stories: My Life in Special Operations.”

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Bonus Pod: Michael Morell on the Whistleblower Complaint and Ukraine Call Oct 01, 2019

In this bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell shares his views on and analysis of the recently released whistleblower complaint centered on a call between President Trump and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine. Morell reviews the facts that have emerged to date and offers context on the complaint itself. He also addresses allegations surrounding former Vice President Joe Biden.

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Top U.S. Foreign Policy Challenges: Discussion with Richard Haass Sep 25, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Richard Haass, former Director of Policy Planning for the State Department and current president of the Council on Foreign Relations. Morell and Haass discuss the arc of American foreign policy and its ideological evolution during the Trump administration. Haass offers his views on policy approaches to China, North Korea, Iran and Russia. He also shares his concerns about the security and stability of the U.S. and its institutions.

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Bonus Pod: Intelligence Matters Live Taping with Host Michael Morell Sep 20, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell has the tables turned on him – and gets asked the questions in a live taping at the Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy, and International Security at George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy & Government. Morell talks with CBS News intelligence reporter Olivia Gazis about his three-decade career at the CIA and top foreign policy issues involving Iran, Afghanistan, North Korea and China. He also discusses technological and other challenges currently facing the U.S. intelligence community.

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Senior CBP Officer Todd Owen on Agency's Main Missions and State of U.S. Border Security Sep 17, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Todd Owen, Executive Assistant Commissioner for Field Operations at U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Owen and Morell discuss the agency's main operational components and the state of U.S. border security. Owen explains the focus and range of the agency's efforts on counterterrorism and narcotics interdiction, addresses migration and asylum trends exacerbating security and humanitarian concerns on the U.S. southern border, and evaluates the U.S.-Mexico operational relationship.

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Remembering 9/11: Author Garrett Graff on New Oral History Book Sep 10, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with journalist and author Garrett Graff about his new book, "The Only Plane in the Sky: An Oral History of 9/11." Graff and Morell discuss a number of the little-known details contained in the book, which were offered by hundreds of people who lived through the events of September 11, 2001. On the eighteenth anniversary of the attacks, as the day slips "from memory to history," Graff discusses the importance of collecting first-hand accounts that reveal more than just the day"s facts. Morell also offers details from his own experience as the CIA"s daily briefer to President Bush on the morning of the attacks.

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Former CIA Officer Kristin Wood on the Production, Delivery and Value of Analysis Sep 03, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former CIA officer Kristin Wood, who served in three different directorates over a two-decade career at the agency. Wood and Morell discuss the process, substance and value of the agency's analytic work and describe how it is delivered to top policymakers. Wood also discusses the growing importance of open-source data to the intelligence community and explains how an Internet-facilitated "firehose of information" has fundamentally changed the work of the country's intelligence analysts.

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Pentagon's Former Top Intel Official on U.S. Afghanistan Strategy Aug 27, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence Michael Vickers about recent developments in Afghanistan, the site of America's longest war. Morell and Vickers review the evolution of security challenges in Afghanistan in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and discuss the current status of U.S.-Taliban peace talks. Vickers reviews the main pillars of the talks and offers perspective on the potential risks associated with a total U.S. withdrawal. He also offers thoughts on crafting a successful long-term strategy in Afghanistan.

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CNN Chief National Security Correspondent Jim Sciutto on 'Shadow Wars' Involving Russia, China Aug 21, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with CNN Chief National Security Correspondent Jim Sciutto about his new book, "The Shadow Wars," about how Russia and China are leveraging different tools, strategies and battlefields to counter the United States below the threshold of armed conflict. Sciutto explains how emerging domains including cyber, submarine technology and space are increasingly contested by great powers in their pursuit of dominance. Morell and Sciutto also discuss the United States? awareness of and policy responses to measures taken by Russia and China to date.

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What’s Next for Venezuela? A Conversation with Latin America Expert Juan Cruz Aug 14, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Juan Cruz, former special assistant to the President and senior director for Western Hemisphere affairs at the National Security Council, about the ongoing humanitarian and security crisis in Venezuela. Cruz explains the origins of the instability, the U.S. government's response to date, and discusses possible "day after" scenarios that could follow the fall of Nicolas Maduro and the installation of a transitional government. He also tells Morell how Maduro has managed to cling to power and invited support from strategic challengers like Russia, China, Iran and Cuba.

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Office of the Director of National Intelligence: What It Does, Why It Matters Aug 06, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Michael Allen, a former majority staff director for the House Intelligence Committee and senior director at the National Security Council under former president George W. Bush, about the provenance and purpose of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI). Allen, who wrote a book documenting the office's post-9/11 stand-up, discusses how it came into being and the ways in which it coordinates activities and priorities across the 17-agency intelligence community. Allen also weighs in on the requisite qualities for a new DNI as the Trump administration continues its search for a replacement for Dan Coats.

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Preet Bharara, Former U.S. Attorney, Offers Takeaways from Mueller Testimony Jul 30, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York and 'Stay Tuned' podcast host Preet Bharara about the findings and testimony of former special counsel Robert Mueller. Bharara and Morell review the implications of Volumes I and II of Mueller's report, discuss the health of the rule of law throughout the United States, and the effects of the potential erosion of trust in U.S. institutions. Bharara also recounts the story of his visit to Trump Tower to meet with the president-elect in 2016.

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Former Top Envoy Dennis Ross on Prospects for Middle East Peace Jul 23, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Ambassador Dennis Ross, former Middle East peace envoy and top negotiator, about the prospects for resolving the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Ross, who served multiple presidents of both parties over the course of a career spanning over three decades, retraces his efforts to broker a peace agreement under presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton, and explained how early missteps during the Obama administration seemed to derail prospects for a deal. He also evaluates the Trump administration's approach to the impasse and offers thoughts on ongoing challenges in Iran and Afghanistan.

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PDDNI Sue Gordon on the Intelligence Community's Imminent Information Challenges Jul 16, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence Sue Gordon, the country's number two U.S. intelligence official, about the proliferating and accelerating information threats facing the intelligence community. Gordon explains how agencies are preparing to confront a novel set of challenges related to the 2020 presidential elections - in part by boosting transparency - and how it is bolstering relationships with the private and tech sectors. Gordon also weighs in on the leadership of DNI Dan Coats and the wisdom of former senior intelligence officials speaking out publicly about political matters. This is the second installment of a continuing series on "Leadership of the IC," featuring currently-serving senior leadership within the U.S. intelligence community.

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Head of State Department's Intelligence Arm on Assessing Foreign Leaders Jul 09, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Ellen McCarthy, Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Intelligence and Research (INR). As head of INR – the oldest all-source U.S. intelligence agency, and among the smallest, within the 17-member community – McCarthy leads a cadre of about 250 analysts at the State Department who provide assessments to the Secretary of State, relevant policymakers and the President. She explains how INR analysts arrive at their assessments of foreign leaders, including North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Russian president Vladimir Putin, and Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and how their assessments can inform, but not influence, policymaking. This is the second installment of a continuing series on "Leadership of the IC," featuring currently-serving senior leadership within the U.S. intelligence community.

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National Counterterrorism Center Deputy Director on Enduring Extremist Threats Jul 02, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Russ Travers, deputy director of the National Counterterrorism Center within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Travers offers an overview of enduring and evolving terrorism threats facing the U.S. from extremist groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda as well as known state sponsors of terror Iran and Pakistan. He also outlines how technological shifts are compounding challenges of counterterrorism intelligence collection. This is the first installment of a continuing series on "Leadership of the IC," featuring currently-serving senior leadership within the U.S. intelligence community.

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Top Cybersecurity Official Chris Krebs on Protecting U.S. Infrastructure Jun 26, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Chris Krebs, Director of the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Krebs details the department's efforts to defend U.S. systems, elections and infrastructure from foreign adversaries' cyber incursions and influence operations. He explains the nature of strategic threats from Russia, China and others and how CISA is working to boost the resilience of the country's critical infrastructure. He also describes the agency's efforts to protect the 2020 presidential election from outside interference.

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Bonus Pod: "Situation Room" Dialogue on Responding to Iran Jun 21, 2019

In this bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell holds a mock "situation room" dialogue with Ambassador Bill Burns, former deputy Secretary of State and President of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, and Jim Miller, former Under Secretary is Defense for Policy and senior fellow at Harvard Kennedy School's Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, on U.S. diplomatic, policy and military options for responding to Iran amid escalating tensions.

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Kim Jong-Un's Surprising Rise to Power: Washington Post Journalist Anna Fifield Jun 18, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Washington Post journalist and Beijing bureau chief Anna Fifield about her new book, "The Great Successor: The Divinely Perfect Destiny of Brilliant Comrade Kim Jong-Un." Morell and Fifield discuss her years of reporting from inside Pyongyang and her conversations with the North Korean leader's elusive inner circle. She describes how she obtained first-hand accounts of Kim's childhood and family relationships. Fifield also details some of Kim's early, formative experiences and the sometimes brutal ways he managed to consolidate and maintain power.

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Former CIA Targeting Officer on the Post-9/11 Hunt for Terrorists Jun 11, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former CIA analyst and targeting officer Nada Bakos about the post-9/11 hunt for Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the low-level jihadist and eventual head of Al-Qaeda in Iraq, ISIS's predecessor organization. Morell and Bakos discuss the intense political pressure some analysts felt as they worked to identify links between Iraq and Al Qaeda in the immediate aftermath of the attacks. Bakos also describes how targeting officers employed tactical analysis in an effort to dismantle terror networks and the human intelligence that led to Zarqawi's demise.

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CIA's Former Chief of Disguise Jonna Mendez on How to Hide Spies Jun 05, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews Jonna Mendez, who spent nearly three decades at the CIA and was its Chief of Disguise until 1993. Mendez tells Morell about the fundamentals of disguise, deception and illusion, including what kinds of spies were the hardest to hide. Mendez also discusses her time with her husband, Tony Mendez, a celebrated CIA officer who was famously portrayed in the movie, "Argo." She explains why both of them have pushed for greater transparency into the lives and work of intelligence officers worldwide.

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Russia Expert Angela Stent on What Drives Vladimir Putin May 28, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Russia and foreign policy expert Angela Stent, who is director of the Center for Eurasian, Russian and East European Studies and a professor of government and foreign service at Georgetown University. Stent and Morell discuss Russia's primary global objectives today, and the centuries of history that have shaped its trajectory. Stent also traces President Vladimir Putin's rise to power, and offers an assessment of the qualities and strategies that underlie his political success.

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Ex-Mossad Director Tamir Pardo on Israeli Intelligence and Regional Dynamics May 21, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews Tamir Pardo, who served as Director of the Mossad, Israel's intelligence service, from 2011 to 2016. They discuss the Mossad's relationship with the CIA and current regional dynamics involving Iran, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and the possibility of arriving at a two-state solution. In a rare and wide-ranging interview, Pardo tells Morell about his career trajectory and pivotal moments during his tenure as director.

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NYT's David Sanger on the Perils of Cyber Conflict May 14, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with David Sanger, national security correspondent for the New York Times and author of “The Perfect Weapon: War, Sabotage, and Fear in the Cyber Age.” Morell and Sanger discuss the technological and geopolitical challenges of the cyber domain, including forthcoming developments like 5G networks, artificial intelligence and machine learning, and expanding opportunities for offensive operations. Sanger also offers his perspective on covering the intelligence community and the Trump administration.

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International Spy Museum's Executive Director on the World of Espionage May 07, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Col. Chris Costa, executive director of the International Spy Museum, about the museum's reimagined exhibitions and upcoming reopening in a new location in Washington, DC. Costa explains how the museum obtained over 7,000 artifacts and uses them to tell a newly dimensional story of global spycraft. He covers the tactics, products and gadgetry of espionage, and tells Morell how the museum provides new insight into different facets of intelligence work.

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Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on America's Top Foreign Policy Challenges: Anniversary Edition Apr 30, 2019

In this special edition of Intelligence Matters, which is marking its one-year anniversary since being relaunched by CBS News, host Michael Morell speaks with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo about the top foreign policy challenges facing the United States. Morell and Pompeo discuss the post-caliphate capabilities of ISIS, the way forward in Afghanistan and Syria, the Trump administration's policy priorities in Iran, and its strategy for countering immediate threats from North Korea and long-term threats from China. Secretary Pompeo also makes a case for America's continued global engagement.

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In-Q-Tel President Chris Darby on Investment and Innovation in U.S. Intelligence Apr 23, 2019

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews Chris Darby, President and CEO of In-Q-Tel (IQT), the strategic investment arm of the C.I.A. and the broader intelligence and national security community. Darby explains the history of IQT, how it identifies and vets the companies it chooses to invest in, and how its priorities have evolved since 9/11. Morell and Darby discuss the top technology challenges facing the intelligence community as well as the intensifying strategic competition with China. Darby explains why imagination and creativity play a central role in keeping the intelligence community agile and the country safe.

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Bonus Pod: How Press Covers the Intelligence Community Panel at GMU's Hayden Center Apr 18, 2019

In this bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell leads a panel discussion with four top journalists and editors with decades of experience covering intelligence-related issues. Morell interviews NBC News Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent Andrea Mitchell, Cipher Brief CEO and Publisher Suzanne Kelly, and the Washington Post’s National Security and Intelligence Columnist David Ignatius and National Security Editor Peter Finn about how the media balances accountability journalism with the need to protect national security. The event was sponsored by the Michael V. Hayden Center and the Schar School of Policy and Government.

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How The Genetic Revolution Could Affect National Security: Tech Futurist Jamie Metzl Apr 16, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Jamie Metzl, a geopolitics expert, technology futurist and author of a new book called Hacking Darwin: Genetic Engineering and the Future of Humanity. Metzl and Morell discuss recent advances in reproductive technologies and genetic screening, as well as how their convergence with other technologies like artificial intelligence and big data processing could fundamentally change population health and growth. They also review the national security implications of certain advances in genetic engineering, including how societies worldwide may navigate the ethical questions raised by gene editing and embryo screening.

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Former Top CIA Official on Agency's Leadership, Diversity and Trump's First Visit Apr 09, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former career CIA official Meroe Park, who served at the agency for nearly three decades in a variety of roles -- including analyst, executive assistant to former director George Tenet, chief of payroll and, most recently, chief operating officer. Park was also acting director when President Trump made his first visit to and speech at the CIA in January 2017. She recounts the last-minute preparations for his appearance and explains why the backlash to Trump's controversial speech missed part of the story of his visit. She also discusses the CIA's efforts to boost diversity and demonstrate effective internal leadership.

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NSA's Top Lawyer on Surveillance, Unmasking, and the Challenges of the Digital Revolution Apr 02, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Glenn Gerstell, the National Security Agency's top legal officer. They discuss the looming legal, ethical and societal implications of the digital revolution underway across the globe, as well as the challenges posed by the rapid development and adoption of new technologies. Gerstell explains how changes in the information landscape have prompted an evolution in the NSA's own approach to transparency. He also details the NSA's internal protocols for identifying surveillance targets and unmasking individuals whose communications are captured by incidental collection.

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Bonus Pod: Congressional Intelligence Oversight Panel at GMU's Hayden Center Mar 29, 2019

In this bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell leads a panel discussion with four former intelligence committee members in partnership with the Michael V. Hayden Center and the Schar School of Policy and Government. Former members of the congressional intelligence committees, including former Representatives Jane Harman (D-CA) and Mike Rogers (R-MI) and former Senators Saxby Chambliss (R-GA) and Bill Nelson (D-FL), weigh in on the role and practice of oversight, challenges that can arise, and how politicization can be a complicating factor for essential accountability work.

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A Building Crisis in American Foreign Policy: Former State Department Counselor Eliot Cohen Mar 26, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks about a growing crisis in American foreign policy with Eliot Cohen, Executive Vice Dean of Johns Hopkins University?s School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) and Robert E. Osgood Professor of Strategic Studies. Cohen, who also served as Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's senior adviser, tells Morell the United States risks becoming 'erratically internationalist' by making inconsistent or incoherent choices about where it is engaged abroad. He argues President Trump represents a broad American disenchantment with the country's post-World War II role, and suggests other state and non-state actors will move to assert more control in their respective regions.

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David Petraeus Offers Big Ideas for Leadership, Foreign Policy Mar 19, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, former CIA director General (ret.) David Petraeus speaks with host Michael Morell about strategic leadership and the need to conceive, communicate, implement and refine 'big ideas.' Petraeus, who commanded coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan, weighs in on the 'big ideas' that should shape some of the biggest challenges in U.S. foreign policy, including vis-à-vis China, Russia and North Korea. He also offers a five-part framework for confronting Islamic extremism, and shares insights about his time at the helm of the CIA.

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Bill Burns on the Practice and Strategic Value of American Diplomacy Mar 12, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with William Burns, career diplomat, former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State and current president of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Burns shares concerns about a decades-long drift in American diplomacy, which he says began after the Cold War, intensified in the years following 9/11, and has been accelerated during the Trump administration. He tells Morell why American engagement abroad remains crucial and how it could make a meaningful difference in confronting geopolitical challenges from the likes of China, Russia, North Korea and Iran. Burns also shares anecdotes from his new book, The Back Channel, about engaging directly with Vladimir Putin during his time as U.S. Ambassador to Russia and about the backroom meetings that preceded the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

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Psychiatrist and Insider Threat Expert David Charney on What Leads People to Spy Mar 05, 2019

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with psychiatrist Dr. David Charney, who has spent decades personally evaluating intelligence professionals and has interviewed some of the most well-known spies in American history, including former FBI Agents Earl Pitts and Robert Hansenn. Charney explains the core psychology of espionage, including a theory of what leads people to spy and what kinds of traits and situations are most common among those who choose to do so. Charney also offers new ideas for preventing spying, and stopping it once it starts.

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Managing the World's WMD Threats: NTI's Laura Holgate Feb 26, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Laura Holgate, former U.S. Ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency and Senior Director for Weapons of Mass Destruction Terrorism and Threat Reduction on President Obama's National Security Council. Holgate, now vice president for materials risk management at the Nuclear Threat Initiative, explains the threats posed by chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear weapons and how the United States, along with international partners, works to contain them. Holgate and Morell assess the United States' approach to some of the most precarious proliferation challenges in the world, including from North Korea, Iran and, more recently, Saudi Arabia.

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Korea Expert Sue Mi Terry on High-Stakes Second Trump-Kim Summit Feb 19, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Center of Strategic and International Studies Senior Fellow and Korea Chair Sue Mi Terry about the state of the U.S.-North Korea relationship and the stakes facing both President Trump and leader Kim Jong Un ahead of their second summit in Vietnam. Terry offers an assessment of Pyongyang’s current capabilities, an overview of why Kim has come to the negotiating table, and outlines the questions that remain unanswered about Kim’s strategic intentions. Terry tells Morell what progress will have to be made in Hanoi for the U.S. to be able to declare it a success.

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Former Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson on Border, Cyber, Terror Threats Feb 12, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson, who ran the U.S. government’s third-largest department from 2013 to 2017 during the Obama administration. Johnson offers context on the security challenges at the U.S. southern border, addresses the government’s multi-agency handling of cyber threats, and evaluates the Obama administration’s response to Russia’s efforts to disrupt the 2016 presidential election. Johnson also reviews his career history as a top official at the Department of Defense.

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The View from Havana: Former Top U.S. Diplomat in Cuba Vicki Huddleston Feb 05, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former diplomat Vicki Huddleston, who served as U.S. ambassador to Mali and Madagascar and was the country's top diplomat in Havana during the Clinton and George W. Bush administrations. She details the rocky evolution of the U.S.-Cuba diplomatic relationship, including personal experiences dealing with former revolutionary and Cuban prime minister Fidel Castro. Huddleston and Morell evaluate the Obama administration's 2014 opening to Cuba and the possible trajectories for future of the relationship.

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Bonus Pod: Pedro Burelli on Venezuela's Political Future Jan 31, 2019

In a special bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Pedro Burelli, a former member of the Executive Board of Petróleos de Venezuela who now lives in exile in the United States and speaks regularly with democratic leader Juan Guaidó. Burelli weighs in on the state of affairs in Venezuela and explains why the Trump administration’s efforts to build a multilateral alliance in the region may lead to a peaceful solution. He offers views on Guaidó’s political evolution and rapid rise to power, and discusses why the country – with the international community’s help in ousting malign influence from abroad and rebuilding institutions from within – may soon be poised to undergo permanent change.

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Former NSA Director Mike Rogers on Cyber Threats, Insider Threats and More Jan 29, 2019

In this week’s episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with retired Navy Admiral Mike Rogers, who until recently served as director of the National Security Agency, Commander of U.S. Cyber Command and Chief of the Central Security Service. They discuss Rogers’ three-decade military career, including how he went from serving as a Navy cryptologist to leading the country’s largest intelligence agency, how his dual-hatted role worked in practice, and whether changes to the agencies’ leadership structure are overdue. They also discuss current cyber threats, insider threats, and why global cyber norms remain elusive. Rogers also weighs in on the merits of public attribution for cyber attacks and the appropriateness of offensive cyber measures.

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Former CIA Deputy Directors on Life Inside the Agency Jan 22, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with David Cohen and Avril Haines, who both served as deputy directors of the CIA during the Obama administration. They discuss with Morell, who was also a deputy director, the demands of the role - including preparing for the Presidential Daily Brief and how it compared to their previous experiences in the U.S. government. They also assess the responsibility of CIA directors to appear and speak publicly, contrasting current director Gina Haspel's relatively low profile with former director John Brennan's choice to be outspoken.

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How ISIS Steals Western Ideas to Recruit in U.S.: Terrorism Expert Robert Pape Jan 15, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Chicago University professor and Director of the Chicago Project on Security and Terrorism Robert Pape, who explains how ISIS and other militant groups adopt Western narratives to effectively recruit in the United States. Pape reviews what inspires people about ISIS propaganda and how the group's recruits differ from those of Al Qaeda. He also tells Morell how he works with the FBI and U.S. prison system to better understand the psychologies of those who have become radicalized.

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Antony Blinken, Former Deputy Secretary of State, on Today's Foreign Policy Challenges Jan 08, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews former deputy Secretary of State and deputy National Security advisor to President Barack Obama Antony Blinken, who weighs in on the Trump administration's foreign policy decisions in some of the world's top geopolitical hotspots. Blinken evaluates the opportunities seized, squandered and still ahead in countries including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Afghanistan, Russia, North Korea and China. A former national security advisor to Vice President Joe Biden, Blinken discusses the parameters of a potential Biden foreign policy.

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Lisa Monaco, Former Homeland Security Advisor, on Today's Threat Landscape Jan 02, 2019

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Lisa Monaco, former U.S. Homeland Security Advisor to President Barack Obama. She reviews her career trajectory from federal prosecutor to Hill staffer to running the National Security Division at the Department of Justice to a series of high-profile roles at the White House. Monaco evaluates the existing threat from foreign-directed terror attacks, the importance of continuity in counterterrorism policy, and the evolution of cyber threats facing the United States.

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Trade Policy and National Security: An Expert View from Gary Hufbauer Dec 25, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, trade expert Gary Hufbauer, nonresident senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, explains the national security implications of trade policy and why a given economy?s health is one of the most significant determinants of a nation?s stability. Hufbauer evaluates the effects of automation on the global economy, the enduring gap between wage and productivity growth, and how much trade balances really matter. He and Morell discuss the effect of populist trends on global economic policies and review several recent deals struck by the Trump administration.

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The National Security Strategy: Lead Author Nadia Schadlow on Its Origins and Impact Dec 18, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, guest host Admiral Sandy Winnefeld (ret.) interviews Nadia Schadlow, Hudson Institute Senior Fellow and former Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategy. They discuss the 2017 National Security Strategy, which articulates the administration's national security concerns and strategic priorities. Schadlow explains how the document was conceived and crafted to reflect President Trump's 'America First' governing philosophy. Schadlow and Winnefeld also discuss how the president's national security team considered the United States' posture vis a vis other great powers like Russia and China, and offers an assessment of the strategy's overall implementation to date.

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CIA's Former Head of Science and Tech: In New Space Race, U.S. is Falling Behind Dec 11, 2018

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Glenn Gaffney, current Executive Vice President of strategic intelligence investor In-Q-Tel and former head of the CIA's Science and Technology Directorate. Morell and Gaffney discuss space as an area of strategic, scientific, intelligence and military competition with Russia and China, and assess the United States' current positioning. They also review existing and future cyber threats to the U.S., which Gaffney explains are expanding and evolving with alarming rapidity.

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Bonus Pod: Michael Morell on Khashoggi Incident Dec 07, 2018

In this bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell weighs in on the CIA's reported assessment regarding the murder of Jamal Khashoggi. He explains the agency's analytic process, the significance of confidence levels, and which stakeholders would be briefed, and how. He reviews the strategic and policy implications of holding Saudi Arabia to account and what steps the United States and the Kingdom should take to ensure long-term regional stability.

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NYPD's Counterterrorism Chief on Today's Terror Threats Dec 04, 2018

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with John Miller, Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism at the New York Police Department. In a wide-ranging conversation, Miller reflects on his career spanning journalism, public affairs and operations roles at some of the country's top law enforcement and intelligence agencies. Miller discusses his 1998, in-person interview with Osama bin Laden and live reporting after the 2001 September 11th attacks. He also tells Morell about the NYPD's intelligence and analysis efforts and weighs in on the threats posed by extremist groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS today.

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Fmr Senior CIA Paramilitary Officer Phil Reilly on U.S.' Afghan Mission Nov 27, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Phil Reilly, former Special Forces soldier and CIA Clandestine Service Senior Paramilitary Officer who was among the select team of ten officers first deployed to Afghanistan in the immediate aftermath of 9/11. Reilly recounts how U.S. forces first partnered with the Northern Alliance in the Panjshir Valley against Taliban units and describes his team's harrowing first helicopter flight over Taliban-controlled areas of Afghanistan. Reilly explains why he believes maintaining a strong U.S. presence in Afghanistan is necessary to prevent the Taliban from regaining power and to keep the existing Afghan government afloat.

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Pentagon's Former Top Intel Official: US, China Battle for Control of Industries of the Future Nov 20, 2018

In this week’s episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Former Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and legendary former CIA operative Michael Vickers about about his work combating the Soviets in Afghanistan, his views of the Trump administration’s security strategy, and the biggest national security threats facing the United States today. Vickers explains why he believes the United States and China are not only battling for economic and political supremacy, but also for control of advanced technologies and the “industries of the future.”

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Why the U.S. Military Could Lose the Next War, with Eric Edelman Nov 14, 2018

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Eric Edelman, former U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and Finland, former Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, and current co-chair of the National Defense Strategy Commission. Edelman and Morell, who is also a member of the Commission, discuss the contents of its new report evaluating the nation's defenses in general and the National Defense Strategy in particular. They explain why, just as other world rivals have grown savvier, stronger and more aggressive, America's military edge is in many areas diminished and in some cases erased. The two evaluate what steps the President and the U.S. Congress can take to forestall a significant national security crisis.

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Former DEA Special Agent Derek Maltz on Opioids and Transnational Crime Nov 07, 2018

In this week’s episode of Intelligence Matters, guest host Ret. Navy Admiral Sandy Winnefeld speaks with Derek Maltz, former Agent in Charge of the Special Operations Division at the U.S. Department of Justice’s Drug Enforcement Administration for an important conversation about the national security implications of the opioid crisis gripping communities across the United States. Maltz explains the connectivity between drug traffickers and terrorist networks, China’s growing export of fentanyl and precursor chemicals, and how the DEA partners with the CIA and other intelligence and law enforcement agencies in international counter-narcotics efforts.

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Top Former CIA, Treasury Official David Cohen on What Makes Sanctions Bite Oct 30, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with David Cohen, former Deputy Director of the CIA and Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence about whether, when, and how targeted financial sanctions work. Cohen explains why the U.S. sanctions snapping back on Iran's oil industry may not have the same bite they did years ago, and why the Trump's administration's once-effective North Korea sanctions may have been weakened by the Singapore summit. Cohen describes how secondary sanctions expand the reach and enhance the power of U.S. financial sanctions, and how intelligence helps determine whether a given sanctions regime is effective.

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The Khashoggi Case: Intel Veteran Norman Roule on Implications for Saudi Arabia Oct 22, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, guest host retired Navy Admiral Sandy Winnefeld interviews Norman Roule, who spent decades at the CIA and Office of the Director of National Intelligence managing significant programs related to the Middle East. Roule, who recently returned from a trip to Saudi Arabia, explains how developments in the Khashoggi matter are being received by Saudi citizens and what senior officials in the Kingdom may do in response to widespread calls for transparency and accountability. Roule also details the many other challenges facing the Kingdom - including its domestic modernization push, the Yemen and Syria conflicts on its borders, and its efforts to build a post-oil economy.

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Top Iran Expert Karim Sadjadpour: Tehran May Wait Out Trump Admin Oct 16, 2018

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with top Iran expert Karim Sadjadpour, senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, about the state of Iran's economy, its domestic politics, and its diplomatic posture vis a vis the West. Sadjadpour offers insight into the evolving dynamics within Tehran's leadership structure and growing discontent in Iranian society, including whether unrest or revolution may be on the horizon. He also assesses the impact of the U.S.'s withdrawal from the nuclear deal, and explains why Iran's medium-term strategy may be to "wait out" the Trump administration.

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The Khashoggi Case: Pentagon's Former Top Intel Official Says There Has To Be Consequences Oct 12, 2018

In this bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with the former Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence Michael Vickers about the case of Saudi journalist and Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi, who disappeared in early October after walking into the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul, Turkey. Amid reports that Turkish officials have audio and video tapes showing Saudi agents are responsible for the murder of Khasshoggi -- a U.S. resident who had written critically of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman -- Morell and Vickers discuss the current knowns and unknowns of the case, the implications of Saudi Arabia's alleged involvement, and the necessary course of action for U.S. policymakers.

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Sen. Lankford on Election and Cyber Security Ahead of Midterms Oct 09, 2018

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Senator James Lankford, R-Oklahoma, who serves on the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Morell and Lankford discuss the state of the nation's election security, the gamut of ongoing foreign misinformation efforts, and whether social media platforms need regulating. Lankford discusses the need for auditable ballots and his work to move a recently-stalled bipartisan election security bill through the Senate. He also provides an update on the committee's ongoing investigation into Russia's interference in the 2016 elections.

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China Expert Chris Johnson on the Future of the U.S.-China Relationship Oct 02, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Christopher Johnson, Senior Adviser and Freeman Chair in China Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, about the current status of and the future possibilities for the U.S.-China relationship. They discuss the implications of a newly competitive economic relationship, the compatibility of domestic, regional and global objectives, and whether compromise is possible - or conflict is inevitable. Johnson explains why he believes America's withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership may be "the biggest strategic mistake the United States has ever made."

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NIAID Director on Threats from Epidemics, Superbugs and Bioterror Sep 25, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, about the national security threats posed by global pandemic, epidemics, superbugs, man-made pathogens and bioterrorism. Fauci provides his assessment of the United States' and the world's level of preparedness for all of them.

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Pres. Bush's Fmr. National Security Advisor on Rebuilding US-Russia Ties Sep 18, 2018

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former National Security Advisor to President George W. Bush, Stephen Hadley. They discuss the need for continued American engagement on the global scene and the merits of a rules-based international system based on democracy, respect for human rights, and free markets. Hadley and Morell also review the major obstacles impeding a functional US-Russia relationship, as well as opportunities to interface strategically with Iran, North Korea and China.

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Former Top Clinton, Biden Adviser on Challenges Facing America Sep 11, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell has a wide-ranging conversation with Jake Sullivan, former senior policy adviser on Secretary Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign and national security adviser to Vice President Joe Biden. They discuss key lessons learned from Russia's 2016 election interference, the Obama administration's response, and how future political leaders should be thinking about the presidency. Sullivan, who was deeply involved in brokering the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, discusses the Trump administration's opportunities for dialogue with Tehran, and shares his views on North Korea, Russia and other foreign policy challenges facing the United States.

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Country's Top Spy-Catcher Bill Evanina on Espionage Threats Sep 04, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with William Evanina, Director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, about the top counterintelligence threats facing the United States. Evanina shares his experience tracking the operational activities of Russian agents in the so-called "illegals" network that culminated in a U.S.-Russia prisoner exchange in 2010. He explains how Russia's ongoing tactical efforts today target critical infrastructure and elections systems, and details the risks posed by non-traditional collection efforts by China. He also tells Morell what other countries are on his "worry list" of increasingly sophisticated espionage challenges.

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Senator Mark Warner on Social Media and Foreign Influence Campaigns Aug 28, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Senator Mark Warner (D-Virginia), vice chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, speaks with host Michael Morell about top national security issues facing the intelligence community, the policymakers who oversee it, and the administration within which it operates. Warner shares his views on the responsibilities of currently-serving intelligence officials and the importance of adhering to the rule of law, and explains why the Senate Intelligence Committee’s ongoing investigation into Russia’s interference in the 2016 election might be among the most important efforts of his public life. He tells Morell why his concerns about the strategic threat posed China have multiplied in recent years, and what he believes Silicon Valley – and the U.S. government – need to do to protect themselves against foreign influence campaigns from Russia, China, Iran and others.

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Fmr Ambassador to UAE on State of US Diplomacy, Policy Toward Middle East Aug 21, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Barbara Leaf speaks with host Michael Morell about the importance of diplomacy, the state of governance in the Middle East, and the path forward for Iran, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Israel and Palestine. Leaf, who spent over three decades at the Department of State overseeing some of the most challenging diplomatic missions in the Middle East, explains why the United States has a "binding interest" in the region and why successful partnerships are critical to national security. She also tells Morell why she believes former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson's tenure marked a period of "extraordinary destructiveness" at the State Department, and what she hopes his successor, Mike Pompeo, will do to help it recover.

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IARPA's Stacey Dixon on Intelligence Innovation Aug 14, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Stacey Dixon, newly named director of Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity (IARPA), the so-called "DARPA-for-spies." Dixon explains how IARPA's work helps the intelligence community forecast global events like cyberattacks, civil unrest and bio-threats, and advance capabilities that use artificial intelligence and machine learning. She also addresses China's outsize investments in high-tech industries, which she warns risks luring away U.S. and other talent.

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Colombia's Former Defense Minister on Security in the Region Aug 07, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks to Juan Carlos Pinzon Bueno, Colombia's former minister of defense and its ambassador to the United States from 2015 to 2017. They discuss the status of the historic peace deal with FARC rebels, the growing political turbulence in Venezuela, and why trust remains at the crux of democracy. Pinzon and Morell also discuss the potential for a resurgence in drug trafficking, its implications for the United States, and other evolving security concerns in the region.

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Combating Disinformation Campaigns: A View From The Experts Jul 31, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Laura Rosenberger and Jamie Fly of the German Marshall Fund's Alliance for Securing Democracy. The bipartisan duo discuss their latest project on disinformation campaigns being conducted worldwide, explain how European nations served as a training ground for operations in the United States and describe how other authoritarian regimes are taking examples from Russia's toolkit. They also detail how Russia's effort to sow social and political discord have reached beyond social media platforms and lasted long beyond the 2016 election.

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Bonus Pod: Michael Morell on Why Security Clearances Matter Jul 27, 2018

In this bonus episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell addresses the Trump administration’s threat to revoke the security clearances of number of former senior government officials. Morell speaks personally about the value that former officials can offer to current administrations, whether and how clearances can be monetized, and how continuity among agency leaders can help serve the public interest. The episode features previous commentary from DNI James Clapper, NSA and CIA Director Michael Hayden, and CIA director John Brennan.

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Pakistan's Fmr. Ambassador on Regional Challenges Jul 24, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Pakistan's former Ambassador to the United States, Husain Haqqani, who takes stock of Pakistan's prevailing domestic ideologies, its fraught regional relationships, and explains how it deals with Washington today. Just ahead of the elections in Pakistan, Haqqani describes the entrenched challenges facing the country and explains what political leaders can do to confront them. He also shares themes from his latest book, Reimagining Pakistan: Transforming a Dysfunctional Nuclear State.

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Adm. Winnefeld (Ret.) on Top Military Threats to U.S. Jul 17, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Admiral Sandy Winnefeld, former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, about the evolving military threats facing the United States and how potential adversaries are developing non-military means to counter U.S. capabilities. They also discuss the fracturing of the liberal world order and whether threats to it are coming from internal sources - like the United States itself. Winnefeld tells Morell how the U.S. military needs to change its approach in order to maintain its position in the current security environment.

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CIA's Top Recruiter on How the Agency Finds Its Spies Jul 10, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell leads a rare interview with CIA's Chief of Talent Acquisition, Sheronda Dorsey, who describes how the agency finds, trains and retains its global network of employees. Dorsey, an agency veteran of nearly three decades, describes her own experience climbing the CIA's ranks as a young black female, and tells Morell how the CIA is working to boost diversity within its ranks and leadership today. She also shares the top qualifying and disqualifying factors for candidates who apply.

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Rep. Mike Quigley on U.S. Election Security Jul 03, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Congressman Mike Quigley (D-IL), who serves on the House Intelligence Committee, speaks with host Michael Morell about the state of America's election security, and why, as midterms get underway, he believes there is much more to be done. Quigley and Morell discuss the vulnerabilities that Russia's 2016 election interference laid bare and how, in the aftermath of the Intelligence Committee's contentious investigation, it can work to restore trust with the agencies it oversees.

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Ben Rhodes on the Obama Administration's Wins, Losses and Legacy Jun 26, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Ben Rhodes, deputy national security advisor to President Barack Obama, speaks with host Michael Morell about some of the administration's pivotal policy decisions - including potential missteps - in Syria, Iran, Cuba and Russia. Rhodes explains Obama's calculus in confronting Russia during its 2016 election interference, assesses the administration's response to the conflict in Syria and tells Morell what part of Obama's legacy is most likely to endure. He also shares new anecdotes from his recent memoir, "The World As It Is."

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James Clapper on Internal and External Threats to America Jun 19, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell has a wide-ranging conversation with former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper. They discuss Clapper's five-decade career in the intelligence community, his views on the U.S. approach to nuclear adversaries like Iran and North Korea, and how to best address ongoing threats to American democratic institutions. Clapper shares details about his tough conversations with President Obama and President-elect Trump, and explains why he personally believes Russia, in its meddling efforts, was successful in tipping the balance in Trump's favor.

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East Asia Expert Weighs In on Singapore Summit Outcome Jun 12, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with Dr. Paul Heer, former National Intelligence Officer for East Asia in the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, about the outcome of the historic U.S.-North Korea summit in Singapore - as well as its winners, losers and necessary next steps. They also discuss the strategic, military and economic challenges posed by China, and how the United States should position itself and seek to craft its policy in the region. NOTE: This episode was recorded just hours after the conclusion of the summit.

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Korea Expert Shares Advice for Trump: Listen to Your Advisors Jun 05, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell talks to former CIA analyst and Senior Fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Sue Mi Terry about the upcoming U.S.-North Korea summit in Singapore. Terry shares what advice she would give President Trump when preparing for talks with Kim Jong Un, and what the outcome of the meeting holds for U.S. and North Korean relations as well as for the region.

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John McLaughlin on Helping Families of the Fallen May 29, 2018

For a special Memorial Day episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell speaks with former deputy director of Central Intelligence John McLaughlin about the CIA Officers Memorial Foundation, which was founded in the aftermath of 9/11 to help the families of fallen officers. McLaughlin explains the foundation's unique mission and shares some of the inspiring stories of children it has helped. The two also discuss the intelligence challenges facing the CIA and its new director, Gina Haspel.

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Undercover Spy to Public Official: Rep. Will Hurd on Global Threats and Domestic Challenges May 22, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews former CIA clandestine officer and current member of Congress Rep. Will Hurd (R-TX), who also serves on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Hurd tells Morell how he went from conducting operations in Kabul to running for office in San Antonio, and how he sees the strategic challenges presented by China, Iran, North Korea and Russia. He also reflects on his experience serving on the House Intelligence Committee, including some of the latest efforts of its chairman, Devin Nunes.

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The Iran Nuclear Deal: What, in the World, Happens Next? May 15, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews former Ambassador and Iran expert James Jeffrey, who also served as deputy National Security Adviser to President George W. Bush. Jeffrey explains what implications the United States' withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal may have - in the region, among European allies, and in the world. Morell and Jeffrey also discuss what President Trump's subsequent strategy for negotiating with Iran might be and how the Iranians may choose to counter it. They look ahead to nuclear talks with North Korea and assess the potential consequences had by the United States' decision to withdraw from a third multilateral agreement.

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Negotiating with North Korea: The Players, The Stakes and The Surprises May 08, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, host Michael Morell interviews former Ambassador Joseph DeTrani, who served as Special Envoy for Six Party Talks with North Korea. Their conversation covers the escalating strikes and varied regional interests behind the upcoming U.S.-North Korea summit, what Kim Jong Un may be thinking - and willing to concede - and what President Trump must achieve in the leaders' historic and highly-anticipated meeting. Morell and DeTrani also discuss what the United States' withdrawal from the Iran nuclear agreement means for forthcoming negotiations with North Korea.

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The Relaunch with General Michael Hayden May 01, 2018

In the premiere episode of CBS News’ newly-relaunched Intelligence Matters podcast, former CIA Acting Director Michael Morell sits down with former NSA and CIA Director General Mike Hayden to discuss Hayden’s new book on post-truth, tribalism’s effect on American traditions and institutions and the challenges facing CIA nominee Gina Haspel. They offer new details about Haspel’s clandestine career and arguments for why she’s a timely choice to lead the agency.

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Why Russia "Hacks" Elections: A Spy's-Eye View Jan 30, 2018

The U.S. is in the grips of spy-mania in the aftermath of Russia's interference in the 2016 election that has made President Trump's 2016 election campaign the focus of a federal investigation. But Russia's active measures to infiltrate and influence the U.S. consciousness didn't begin, nor end with the 2016 election. For years, John Sipher, a 28-year veteran of the CIA's National Clandestine Service, recruited Russian spies and led counter-intelligence operations against Moscow and he's here to talk about what's behind Russia's aggressive stance.

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The Tom Cotton You Don't Know Jan 23, 2018

Republican U.S. Senator and Army veteran Tom Cotton is often described as a hawkish conservative for taking a hardline stance on issues like immigration and the Iran nuclear deal. In this interview, Michael Morell steps away from policy and gets a sense of the Arkansas senator's character, political philosophy and driving influences. Cotton talks about working as his father's farm hand and learning about his dad's service in Vietnam. He also discusses his time studying political science and political philosophy at Harvard, and how 9/11 "changed everything," setting him on the course towards military service and then, the U.S. Senate.

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"We the People": On the Constitution's Relevance Today Jan 16, 2018

In this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell talks to constitutional scholar Geoff Stone on constitutional interpretation and its relevance in today's society. Stone, who authored "Sex and the Constitution" explores oversight of government surveillance on communications and safeguarding a citizen's personal freedoms. Stone also addresses originalism and affirmative action, what he calls the "most cynical form of judicial review we have today."

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A Family's Fight to Reverse America's Opioid Crisis Jan 11, 2018

In this special episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with retired U.S. Navy Admiral James "Sandy" Winnefeld about a non-traditional national security threat that has affected him personally: America's opioid crisis. Winnefeld recently lost his own son Jonathan to opioid addiction, and he is dedicating his life to reversing a crisis he calls a national emergency. The statistics are staggering: the CDC reports that more than 64,000 Americans died in 2016 from a drug overdose more than 20 times the number of Americans killed on 9/11. Winnefeld, former vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, says if America is going to reverse this epidemic, "We need a call to arms" to remove the long-standing stigmas around drug use. He has founded SAFEproject.us (Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic) to support action that will prevent fatal opioid overdoses, and counter opioid addiction's impact on our society.

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PDDNI on Intelligence, Leadership, and Fallen Officers Jan 02, 2018

The U.S. intelligence community's second-in-command, Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence Sue Gordon talks to Michael Morell about being a career CIA officer, starting as a young analyst and working her way to up to leading all four of the CIA's Directorates. Her vast experience and innovative approach to bridging gaps is what prepared her for the PDDNI role, where she focuses on integrating each of the nation's intelligence agencies and innovating so that the United States retains its advantage in an ever-growing interconnected world. PDDNI Gordon also talks about leading in a time of political polarization, and reflects on the personal impact of losing officers serving their nation in the field.

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Chris Johnson on the U.S.-China relationship Dec 19, 2017

The U.S. relationship with China is arguably one of the most strategically important, as highlighted by the Trump administration calling China a "strategic competitor" in its new national security strategy. In this episode, Michael spends time with Chris Johnson, one of his most trusted former China analysts while the two worked at the CIA, to examine how China has evolved to challenge the U.S. on the global stage: its economic growth; its geopolitical influence; Chinese political power plays and the key factors that drive the U.S.-China relationship.

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Terry Roberts on cyber-crime: evolution, variant nature and countering the threat Dec 12, 2017

Cybercrime is one the fastest-growing and most lucrative areas of crime. Former Deputy Director of U.S. Naval Intelligence Terry Roberts, is a global cyber intelligence expert with more than 30 years in the intelligence community. This week she joins Intelligence Matters and talks to Michael about how nation-states, groups and individual actors leverage the global cyber domain, how it affects our economy and what we need to do to safeguard ourselves against an ever-evolving threat.

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Congressman Adam Schiff on Russian Probe Dec 05, 2017

The House Intelligence Committee's top Democratic member, Congressman Adam Schiff talks to Michael about the investigation of Russia's alleged interference in the 2016 presidential election. He talks about the one thing Russian President Vladimir Putin fears most, why Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act is critical to protecting the homeland and why intelligence is not a perfect science.

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Philip Gordon on the brewing crisis in the Middle East Nov 21, 2017

Leading international relations expert Philip Gordon, helps decipher the complexities in the Middle East: the actions and motives of major players and why the big national security challenges and risks that we face as Americans all emanate one way or another from the region.

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Spy vs. Spy: Mark Kelton on Cold War intrigue and treason Nov 14, 2017

Former CIA Counterintelligence Chief Mark Kelton talks to Michael Morell about his years working in Cold War outposts, how the U.S.-Russia adversarial relationship has evolved and what double agents Aldrich Ames and Robert Hanssen have in common with Edward Snowden.

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Robert Cardillo on the NGA's role in the raid on Osama bin Laden's compound Nov 07, 2017

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matter's Michael speaks with Robert Cardillo, the Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). Cardillo explains the agency's mission and how advanced imagery was used in the NGA's creation of a replica of Osama bin Laden's compound in Abbottabad in preparation for the May 2, 2011 raid. Cardillo also talks about what differentiated President Barack Obama's leadership style and looks back on the many tough meetings and long hours spent in the Situation Room.

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Pedro Burelli on what's behind the crisis in Venezuela Oct 31, 2017

On this episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell talks with Pedro Burelli, a former member of the Executive Board of Petroleos de Venezuela about is behind the crisis in Venezuela, what fueled firebrand leader Hugo Chavez's paranoia, how the nation evolved to a narco-state, the current humanitarian crisis, and whether the country can recover without an outside intervention. Intelligence Matters is the new, wildly popular podcast from The Cipher Brief in partnership with CBS News, where former Acting Director of the CIA Michael Morell speaks with top leaders about the key national security issues of our time.

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Michele Flournoy on Major U.S. Foreign Policy Crises Oct 26, 2017

In this special episode of Intelligence Matters, Michael Morell speaks with former U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, Michele Flournoy about the future of the U.S. military, the Iran nuclear deal, the North Korea crisis, Russian election interference and the U.S. falling into the shadow of China's economic dominance. However, Flournoy does not only weigh in on the headlines, but offers advice to young women interested in a national security career field. When her nomination was confirmed by the Senate in 2009, Flournoy became the highest-ranking woman at the Pentagon in the department's history.

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Laura Rosenberger on Rising within the National Security Ranks Oct 24, 2017

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, former Acting Director of the CIA Michael Morell speaks to Laura Rosenberger, a name that may not be immediately recognizable but who at a young age rose the ranks to hold influential senior foreign policy advisor roles. Rosenberger talks about the events of 9/11 inspiring her to a civil service career, and the mentors and champions that helped propel her to the West Wing of the Barack Obama White House in the National Security Council. She talks about her time working as the Foreign Policy Advisor for the Hillary for America campaign, why she thinks Clinton lost the election and Russia's influence on the campaign.

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Former DNI Iran Mission Manager Norman Roule on the Iran Nuclear Deal Oct 17, 2017

The DNI's former Iran Mission Manager, Norman Roule was the leading specialist responsible for integrating collection and analysis on Iran across the Intelligence Community and in this week's episode of Intelligence Matters he talks to former Acting Director of the CIA Michael Morell about whether he believes Iran is complying with its JCPOA obligations, the destabilizing effect of Iran's regional behavior and whether U.S. President Donald Trump's gamble to decertify the nuclear deal will pay off.

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Executive Editor Kim Dozier talks about dedicating her life to journalism Oct 10, 2017

On this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, former acting CIA Director Michael Morell talks with Kimberly Dozier. Dozier was a CBS correspondent for 17 years, and was stationed in Baghdad for three years before being critically wounded. A Peabody and Edward R. Murrow award winner, Dozier started reporting on national security for the Daily Beast, and has now joined The Cipher Brief as Executive Editor. Listen in as Dozier talks about her unique childhood traveling the world, her experiences reporting on the field, and the challenges facing the media today.

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President Obama's Chief of Staff Denis McDonough reflects on Family, Values, Lessons learned and a Life in Public Service Oct 05, 2017

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, former White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough talks about his view of American exceptionalism in creating opportunities for its citizens, how his ideologies were deeply influenced by both his upbringing and travels, and what distinguishes President Barack Obama in his view from other government officials. In a wide-ranging interview with former Acting Director of the CIA Michael Morell, McDonough talks about being one of eleven children and the values he gained from being raised in a devout Catholic family in Stillwater, Minnesota. After graduation from Saint John's University in Collegeville, Minnesota McDonough traveled extensively in South America, and describes the experiences that helped shape his worldview.. In 1996 he began his career in government as an aide on the Hill, he talks about the lessons learned and skills gained that led to his appointment the 26th White House Chief of Staff, succeeding Jack Lew at the beginning of President Barack Obama's second term. Despite his meteoric rise in government, McDonough remains deeply humble and viewed his role in the White House, as having to tee up decisions for the President to make, a conduit emphasizing the value that he attached to that.

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Former National Security Advisor Tom Donilon looks back on his Career Oct 03, 2017

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters, former acting Director of the CIA Michael Morell speaks with former National Security Advisor Tom Donilon about his distinguished career in government: working as a top security advisory in the White House, his thoughts on U.S. President Barack Obama and his advice for the current administration on the most pressing security concerns of our time. As he looks back on his career, Donilon describes an unlikely route to national security and foreign policy. From getting his start in 1977 working for U.S. President Jimmy Carter as a young aid right out of college, to seeing through Carter's transition to private life. As Donilon talks about Carter's influence, he cites him as the first of a handful of mentors who were crucial in helping forge his path into public service. As a young Tom Donilon set his sights on opening a consulting firm, it was former Secretary of State Warren Christopher helped propel the young attorney into the political arena. He served as National Security Advisor to President Barack Obama from 2010-2013 where he was responsible for the coordination and integration of the administration's foreign policy, intelligence, and military efforts. Tom Donilon is vice chair of the international law firm of O'Melveny and Myers. He is a leading national security expert with deep experience in geopolitics, cybersecurity, financial services, and corporate governance.

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Ambassador Joseph DeTrani talks about the Escalating Crisis with North Korea Sep 28, 2017

This week we have a special episode of Intelligence Matters with Michael Morell, in which, The Cipher Brief expert Ambassador Joseph DeTrani weighs in on mounting tensions between the United States and North Korea. The exchange of fiery rhetoric between U.S. President Donald Trump and members of the North Korean regime raises the question, is this war of words a precursor to armed conflict, escalating the crisis to a tipping point. Trump has publicly rebuked his predecessors for leaving him what he described "a mess," and intensified warnings to North Korea making clear that a military option would be 'devastating' to them. Kim Jong-Un's regime have said that Trump's continued statements amount to a "declaration of war" and threaten to shoot down U.S. warplanes in international airspace. Ambassador DeTrani, who is one of our nation's leading experts on issues related to North Korea, China and nuclear nonproliferation talks to former Acting Director of the CIA Michael Morell about what drove North Korea to develop a nuclear program, how we got to where we are today, the alarming advancements the North Korean regime has made in creating miniaturized nuclear warheads and offers thoughts on what the best path forward is for the United States. Ambassador DeTrani was President of the Intelligence and National Security Alliance, a professional Think Tank. Previously, he was the Special envoy for Six Party Talks with North Korea and the U.S. Representative to the Korea Energy Development Organization (KEDO). He was an Associate Director of National Intelligence and Mission Manager for North Korea and the Director of National Counter Proliferation Center, while serving as a Special Adviser to the Director of National Intelligence. He served over two decades with the Central Intelligence Agency as a member of the Senior Intelligence Service. He is currently on the Board of Managers at Sandia National Laboratories.

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Director of National Counterterrorism Center Nicholas Rasmussen Sep 26, 2017

In this week's episode of Intelligence Matters with Michael Morell, we hear from the Director of National Counterterrorism Center Nicholas Rasmussen who in a rare interview gives insight into the dramatic progress made against ISIS in the battlefield, why Al Qaeda is still priority to analysts, primary threats currently facing the homeland and how the terror threat has evolved. Rasmussen is the top analyst on terrorism in the United States with nearly two decades' experience in the counterterror field. As senior NCTC and CIA officials, Rasmussen and Morell worked closely with one another, sharing counterterrorism-related intelligence information that ensured effective intra-agency coordination and ultimately led to the operation that resulted in the death of Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden. The NCTC, initially known as the Terrorist Threat Integration Center, was created at the recommendation of the 9/11 commission to ensure that information on potential terror threats from federal departments and agencies (such as the CIA and FBI) could be merged in a single location and appropriate responses could then be planned.

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Secretary Leon Panetta Sep 19, 2017

In the premiere episode of Intelligence Matters, former Acting CIA Director Michael Morell puts his analyst hat on for a wide-ranging conversation with former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta. Morell succeeded Panetta as Acting Director of the Agency in 2011 when Panetta left to take on the role of Secretary of Defense under President Barack Obama. While the two men worked together, and both currently serve as Senior Counselors at Beacon Global Strategies, a geopolitical consulting firm based in Washington, the two have never had a conversation quite like this before. Morell talks to the Secretary about the spread of extremism, North Korea, and the importance of U.S. leadership in the world. They also get personal in this hour-long chat covering Panetta's humble beginnings as the son of Italian immigrants, his inspired passion for public service, and candid advice for President Trump.

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