NatSec Matters - Beacon Global Strategies LLC

Trump, Ukraine, and the Ceasefire Gamble: Peter Rough Apr 02, 2025

What does President Trump's plan for peace in Ukraine look like, and what could it cost Kyiv? Michael Allen talks with Peter Rough, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, about the high-stakes diplomacy under way right now. Peter unpacks the determined push for a ceasefire, the potential shift to offering Russia more 'carrots' than 'sticks,' and Ukraine's precarious calculations on manpower, aid, and future security. With US support hanging in the balance and European resolve tested, Michael and Peter explore if a lasting peace is even possible.

Economic Warfare: Eddie Fishman Mar 26, 2025

Michael Allen speaks with Eddie Fishman, sanctions expert and author of Chokepoints: American Power in the Age of Economic Warfare. Eddie explains how the U.S. has wielded economic weapons against Russia, Iran, and China, and how sanctions and supply chain dominance are reshaping global power. He also explores the risks of overusing these tools, China’s evolving role, and the future of economic conflict in an era of great power competition.

Guardians of the Sky: Frank Kendall Mar 19, 2025

Jeremy Bash speaks with former Air Force Secretary LTC (Ret.) Frank Kendall about the future of U.S. air and space dominance amid rising threats from China and Russia. Mr. Kendall describes the Pentagon’s toughest modernization decisions, from next-generation fighter jets to autonomous combat aircraft. He also discusses the evolving role of the Space Force, the challenges of missile defense, and the urgent need to counter China’s rapid military advancements.

The Estonian Watchmen: Arnold Sinisalu Mar 12, 2025

Michael Allen speaks with Arnold Sinisalu, former chief of Estonia’s Internal Security Service, about Estonia’s frontline role in countering Russian espionage and subversion. Arnold describes how Estonia tracks and disrupts Russian intelligence operations, from spy arrests to cyber defense. He also discusses Russia’s evolving sabotage tactics across Europe and the ongoing battle against disinformation.

Transatlantic Tensions: Nico Lange Mar 05, 2025

Michael Allen speaks with Nico Lange, senior fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis, about Germany’s political future and the major shifts in transatlantic security. They discuss the recent German elections, Germany’s evolving defense strategy, and Europe’s response to a changing U.S. foreign policy under President Trump. Nico also offers his take on the future of the war in Ukraine, Russia’s long-term military strategy, and the critical role of European security alliances in an increasingly unstable world.

Russia's 'Shadow War': Bojan Pancevski Feb 26, 2025

Michael Allen speaks with The Wall Street Journal‘s Chief European Political Correspondent, Bojan Pancevski, about his recent article on Russia’s new ‘Department of Special Tasks.’ Panchevski reveals the unit’s clandestine operations in Europe, its motives behind acts of sabotage, and the broader geopolitical implications. He also discusses his investigations into Russian cyber attacks, proxy warfare, and the growing threats against Western targets, including terror plots and assassination attempts.

International Headwinds: Mark Montgomery Feb 19, 2025

Michael Allen speaks with retired Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery, Senior Director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. He shares insights on the Ukraine war, examining Russia’s tactical advantage, the challenges Ukraine faces amid inconsistent aid, and the vital role of international alliances. He also explores geopolitical tensions in the Pacific and strategies for sustaining U.S. influence on the global stage.

Geopolitics in Transition: Jon Finer Feb 12, 2025

Jeremy Bash speaks with Jon Finer, former Principal Deputy National Security Advisor to President Biden. Jon offers candid insights on addressing Iran’s destabilization, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and China’s ambitions over Taiwan. He also previews the challenges facing the new administration.

Inside Israeli Military Intel: Tamir Hayman Feb 05, 2025

Michael Allen speaks with Maj. Gen. Tamir Hayman, former head of Israeli army intelligence, about the current threat landscape to Israeli national security. Tamir discusses Israel’s evolving strategic response since the October 7, 2024, attacks. He also explains the complex approach to negotiating hostage releases and the daunting challenge of gathering intelligence on their whereabouts. Additionally, Tamir shares insights on Iran’s nuclear program and reveals details about Israel’s sophisticated pager and walkie-talkie operation targeting Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon.

Strategic Frontlines: Gen. Frank McKenzie Jan 29, 2025

Michael Allen speaks with General (Ret.) Kenneth 'Frank' McKenzie, Jr., former commander of U.S. Central Command, about the evolving security challenges in the Middle East. They discuss Iran’s vulnerabilities, the impact of Israel’s recent military actions, and the strategic fallout from the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. General McKenzie also explores the rising threat of ISIS, the limitations of over-the-horizon operations in Afghanistan, and the critical role of U.S. partnerships in deterring global adversaries.

'Flip the Script' Jan 08, 2025

Michael and Andy join Beacon Global Strategies Managing Director Michael Allen to share a major announcement about the future of Intelligence Matters. They also discuss their geopolitical forecasts for 2025, examining potential developments in the Middle East, Russia, Ukraine, and China.

Inside the President's Daily Brief Jan 01, 2025

Michael revisits his conversation with Andy about their unique experiences as CIA briefers for President George W. Bush. They share behind-the-scenes stories of preparing the President’s Daily Brief, navigating high-stakes national security discussions, and managing the delicate balance of delivering tough truths.

Umasking the CIA: Jonna Mendez Dec 25, 2024

Michael revisits his interview with former CIA officer Jonna Mendez about her memoir, In True Face: A Woman’s Life in the CIA, Unmasked. Jonna reflects on her unconventional path into the CIA, her groundbreaking work in disguise and clandestine photography, and the challenges of navigating a male-dominated field. She also discusses her work evaluating tampered packages and recounts the unique moment she demonstrated a disguise mask to President George H. W. Bush in the Oval Office.

The Trump-China Dilemma: Chris Johnson Dec 18, 2024

Michael talks with Chris Johnson, head of China Strategies Group, about Beijing’s vulnerabilities and its uneasy anticipation of Donald Trump’s return to the White House. They explore the high-stakes rivalry between the U.S. and China, including economic tensions, Xi Jinping’s grip on power, and the geopolitical flashpoints that could redefine the global order.

Inside a Dangerous Alliance: Sara Harmouch Dec 11, 2024

Michael speaks with terrorism expert and H9 Defense Founder and CEO Sara Harmouch who explores the surprising alliance between Iran and Al Qaeda, tracing their decades-long relationship and warning about the growing security threats posed by their current cooperation.

The Antarctic 'Chessboard': Bill Muntean Dec 04, 2024

Andy speaks with former State Department senior advisor Bill Muntean about how the vast, frozen continent of Antarctica has become an unexpected theater in great power competition. Bill discusses the delicate balance maintained by the 1959 Antarctic Treaty and how surprise inspections - which he personally leads - help verify Russian and Chinese compliance. As climate change and resource scarcity reshape geopolitics, they explore whether Antarctica's longstanding peace can endure amid rising tensions between global powers.

National Security's AI Wunderkind: Alex Wang Nov 27, 2024

Andy talks with Alex Wang, the founder and CEO of Scale AI, to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and its implications for national security. Forbes says Alex, at age 25, is the world's youngest self-made billionaire. He describes the three foundational pillars of AI—data, compute, and algorithms—and how advancements in each have driven recent progress. Alex discusses how AI advancement could enable adversaries to pose new threats to US national security, and the guardrails the technology may need.

Inside the Digital Battlefield: Dmitri Alperovitch Nov 20, 2024

Andy talks with Dmitri Alperovitch, one of the brilliant minds behind CrowdStrike and a leading voice in cybersecurity. He's also author of the new book, World on the Brink: How America Can Beat China in the Race for the Twenty-First Century. In this episode, Dmitri explores the digital threats reshaping national security - from sophisticated state-sponsored hacks to the U.S.-China tech rivalry. Dmitri shares candid insights on America's cyber readiness, why Taiwan matters more than ever, and how AI is transforming the battlefield.

'Chip War': Chris Miller Nov 13, 2024

Andy revisits his conversation with Tufts University economic historian Chris Miller, author of the bestselling book Chip War: The Fight for the World’s Most Critical Technology. Chris discusses the high-stakes race for global dominance in semiconductor development and manufacturing. He reveals the fragile and complex nature of the semiconductor supply chain, highlighting the geopolitical vulnerabilities involved in their production and explaining why they are essential to U.S. national security.

'The Axis of Upheaval': Beth Sanner Nov 06, 2024

Michael and Andy speak with Beth Sanner, former CIA analyst and Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Mission Integration, about the national security challenges facing the next U.S. president. They explore the complex relationships between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, rising tensions in the South China Sea, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. They also examine how these geopolitical dynamics impact global stability and discuss the fine line between geopolitical and cyber threats.

Securing Critical Mineral Supplies: Christine Michienzi Oct 30, 2024

Andy talks with Dr. Christine Michienzi, who served as the Senior Technology Advisor for the Pentagon’s Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition & Sustainment and as the Chief Technology Officer for the Industrial Base Policy office. Dr. Michienzi explains the national security vulnerabilities in U.S. supply chains for essential minerals and materials used in key defense hardware like electronics, satellites, weapons systems and ammunition. She discusses China’s dominance in these critical supply chains and shares strategies to bolster domestic production and strengthen international partnerships.

Lessons from a Career in Intelligence: Christy Abizaid Oct 23, 2024

Michael talks with former National Counterterrorism Center Director Christy Abizaid, who shares her extensive experiences in the intelligence community. She discusses the evolution of her career from intelligence analyst to policymaker and leader in counterterrorism, emphasizing the importance of integrity, objectivity, and the need for intelligence officials to accurately inform policy. Abizaid also highlights the challenges of navigating crises, the significance of being present in decision-making rooms, and the lessons learned from her unique perspective on both sides of the intelligence and policy divide.

MasterClass: The Art of Intelligence Oct 16, 2024

Michael talks with former CIA Deputy Chief of Staff Nick Shapiro, former Deputy Director of CIA for Science and Technology Dawn Meyerriecks, and former Director of the agency’s elite Special Activities Center Brian Carbaugh about their new class on MasterClass: The Art of Intelligence. Nick helped organize the class on MasterClass with Michael, Dawn, and Brian who were given authorization to share their real-life experiences and the lessons they learned about leadership, critical thinking, and risk management. The class on MasterClass is humorous, engaging, and enlightening. And in this episode of Intelligence Matters, the four discuss their experiences arranging and taking part in the class on MasterClass.

Biosecurity: Matt McKnight Oct 09, 2024

Andy talks with Matt McKnight, General Manager for Biosecurity at Ginkgo Bioworks, about the new frontier of global threats posed by weaponized cell engineering. Matt discusses the need for a comprehensive global monitoring and early detection system, enhanced international cooperation, and a unified defense approach to mitigate the potentially catastrophic impacts of biological events, whether accidental or malicious.

Israel-Lebanon Conflict: Eyal Hulata Oct 02, 2024

Michael speaks with former Israeli National Security Advisor Eyal Hulata, now a senior international fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, about recent military strikes against Hezbollah, the strategic implications for Iran, and the need for a comprehensive agreement to secure long-term stability in Lebanon. Eyal also warns of the risk of Iran pursuing nuclear weapons and highlights the importance of international support for the Iranian people. Their conversation took place just before Israel’s ground offensive in southern Lebanon, and Tuesday's Iranian missile barrage.

Punishing Putin: Stephanie Baker Sep 25, 2024

Michael talks with Bloomberg senior writer Stephanie Baker about her new book, Punishing Putin: Inside the Global Economic War to Bring Down Russia, which examines the unprecedented economic statecraft waged by the U.S. and its European allies in response to Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. The book evaluates the effectiveness of sanctions, how Russia is enduring them, and what may happen next.

Michael & Andy: World Roundup Sep 18, 2024

Michael and Andy discuss their recent travels and the bleak prospects for resolving conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, Taiwan’s preparedness for a potential Chinese attack, and the unfolding crisis in Venezuela. Michael also shares his son’s podcast, "3rd & 33", which focuses on college football.

Decoding the Minds of World Leaders: Jennifer Welch Sep 11, 2024

Michael explores the world of leadership analysis with former CIA analyst Jennifer Welch. Now the Chief Geoeconomics Analyst for Bloomberg Economics, Jennifer discusses the art and science of crafting detailed profiles of world leaders—from understanding their personal histories to deciphering their strategic mindsets. She reveals how leadership analysis illuminates the human element in global affairs and can make or break diplomatic negotiations.

Israel's Intelligence Failures: Uri Bar-Jospeh Sep 04, 2024

Michael talks with Israeli intelligence expert Uri Bar-Joseph, who dissects the stunning failure of Israeli intelligence ahead of the October 7th Hamas attack—a “perfect failure” that shook the foundations of Israel’s vaunted security apparatus. Tracing the roots of this debacle back decades, Bar-Joseph discusses the fatal flaw in Israel’s national security strategy: prioritizing military might over diplomatic engagement. It’s part of Uri’s new book in Hebrew, 'Beyond the Iron Wall.'

A Window on Russia: Rolf Mowatt-Larssen Aug 28, 2024

Michael reintroduces this episode featuring his conversation with former CIA officer Rolf Mowatt-Larssen, who shares unique anecdotes that reveal the Russian mindset, from a puppet show to a symbolic Bolshoi performance. His firsthand experiences in the country explore how history, culture, and psychology shape Russia's worldview—and foreshadow its actions in geopolitics today.

Dismantling the Khan Nuclear Network: Jim Lawler Aug 21, 2024

Michael reintroduces this episode featuring Andy's conversation with former CIA operative Jim Lawler, who reveals how he and his team unraveled the world's most extensive nuclear proliferation network, led by the 'father of the Islamic bomb,' A.Q. Khan.

Keeping AI in Check: Mary Ellen Callahan Aug 14, 2024

Andy speaks with Mary Ellen Callahan, Assistant Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security's Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) Office. They discuss a recent DHS report on reducing the risks of AI accelerating chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. Mary Ellen explains the government's efforts to build consensus among agencies, engage with the private sector, and develop safety standards to combat these emerging AI-driven threats.

Venezuela's Presidential Election: Pedro Burelli Aug 07, 2024

Michael speaks with Latin America and Venezuela expert Pedro Borelli, the Founder and Managing Director of B&V Holdings, a financial advisory firm. Pedro discusses the disputed results of Venezuela’s July 28 presidential election, in which President Nicolas Maduro claimed victory despite opposition tallies indicating that their candidate, Edmundo González, won. Pedro provides historical context on Venezuela’s transition from a stable democracy to a “mafia state” under the Chávez and Maduro regimes. He also offers his insight into why stability and security in Venezuela matter to U.S. interests and the world.

How China Views a Possible Harris Administration & Unpacking July's CCP Meeting: Chris Johnson Jul 31, 2024

Michael talks with former CIA senior China analyst Chris Johnson, who breaks down the recent Chinese Communist Party's so-called third plenum, revealing President Xi Jinping's focus on state-led tech advances over market reforms. Chris, a CSIS Senior Fellow, shares his views on China's leading issues amidst a slowing economy. He also offers insights into Beijing's views on the chaotic U.S. political scene and how a possible President Kamala Harris could engage China.

Update on Ukraine War: Andrea Kendall-Taylor Jul 24, 2024

Managing Director and Partner at Beacon Global Strategies, Michael Allen, sits in for Michael Morell and Andy Makridis this week and checks in with the Center for a New American Security’s Andrea Kendall-Taylor about the current state of Russia’s war on Ukraine and how a possible President Kamala Harris could spearhead U.S. support for Ukraine. Andrea, a former CIA senior analyst and now Senior Fellow and Director of the Transatlantic Security Program at CNAS, discusses the current status of NATO support for Ukrainian membership and what the future could hold for the war.

China's 'Princeling' & the CCP: Chun Han Wong Jul 17, 2024

Andy talks with Wall Street Journal Reporter Chun Han Wong, who covers Chinese politics. He has written extensively about the country's human rights record, its Communist Party, and President Xi Jinping. Chun discusses the current issues facing China and its relations with the US, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. He also offers analysis on China's political system and Xi's efforts to centralize power, along with the threats China poses to Taiwan.

North Korea: Sydney Seiler Jul 11, 2024

Michael speaks with Sydney Seiler, one of the country's top experts on North Korea and Korea Chair at CSIS. Sydney served as the U.S. Special Envoy for Six Party Talks, where he led negotiations with North Korea. He also held key positions at the National Intelligence Council, ODNI, CIA, and NSA. Sydney discusses North Korea's recent treaty with Russia and its growing provocations on the Korean Peninsula.

Signals Intelligence & Cybersecurity: George Barnes Jul 03, 2024

Andy talks with the former Deputy Director of the National Security Agency George Barnes about the NSA's missions focused on signals intelligence and cybersecurity, as it also adapts to emerging strategic challenges like competition from China and Russia. George also shares his take on quantum computing and AI, and discusses how the NSA tries to recruit and retain some of the world’s most skilled workers.

'Chilling' Pre-911 video & the threat lanscape: Michael & Andy Jun 26, 2024

Andy talks with Michael about his June Foreign Affairs article, “The Terrorism Warning Lights Are Blinking Red Again: Echoes of the Run-Up to 9/11,” co-written with Graham Allison. Michael discusses the pre-9/11 threat and national security parallels with today’s environment. He also shares his assessment of a newly unsealed 1999 video from Saudi intelligence officer Omar al-Bayoumi, which Michael says appears to be ‘casing’ footage of the US Capitol. Additionally, Michael talks with Andy about the security vulnerabilities at the US-Mexico border.

Briefing the President: Michael & Andy Jun 19, 2024

Michael and Andy discuss their roles as daily intelligence briefers for former President George W. Bush. They share their experiences inside the Oval Office, the unique challenges of the job, and how they dealt with constant pressure and performance expectations.

Note: This episode contains an expletive.

Chip Security: Chris Miller Jun 12, 2024

Andy talks with Chris Miller, author of "Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology" and Associate Professor of International History at Tufts University, about semiconductor chips. Chris discusses the global supply chain of critical chip manufacturers, why the U.S. must focus on advancing semiconductor innovation, and the competition with adversaries like China in chip development. He also explains why Taiwan is a world leader in chip manufacturing and how crucial the sector is for Taiwan's political and economic security.

National Security Venture Capitalism: Steve Bowsher Jun 05, 2024

Andy talks with Steve Bowsher, Chief Executive Officer at In-Q-Tel, an intelligence and national security community venture capital non-profit. IQT says it is a strategic investor that accelerates the development and delivery of cutting-edge technologies to US government agencies. Steve discusses investing in startups, recognizing success, and doing business with the federal government, as well as with other countries, including Australia and the UK. Steve also discusses AI, biosecurity, and innovation.

National Security in Space: Ret. General John W. 'Jay' Raymond May 29, 2024

Andy talks with retired General John W. 'Jay' Raymond, the first Chief of Space Operations of the U.S. Space Force. Gen. Raymond discusses leading space operations and commands, and the growing threats posed by China and Russia's counterspace weapons. Gen. Raymond also focuses on collaborating with commercial companies and partners to maintain space superiority, and how the Space Force has evolved into what it is today.

National Security Entrepreneurship: Arun Gupta May 22, 2024

Andy talks with Arun Gupta, a venture capitalism lecturer at Stanford University and an adjunct entrepreneurship professor at Georgetown. Arun is also the CEO of the NobleReach Foundation, which focuses on catalyzing and inspiring a renewed spirit of national service through innovation. He is the author of "Venture Meets Mission: Aligning People, Purpose, and Profit to Innovate and Transform Society." In their discussion, Arun shares insights from his experience and book on how to better partner entrepreneurs and the government to solve large problems through a renewed focus on outcomes-based collaboration, and to inspire young people to consider public service careers. Gupta advocates leveraging the optimism of entrepreneurs and the scale of government to address issues like national security, health tech, and climate change.

Pakistan: Asfandyar Mir May 15, 2024

Michael talks with Asfandyar Mir, a South Asia senior expert at the United States Institute of Peace, about Pakistan. The two discuss the U.S. national security interest in Pakistan, relations between the two countries, the influence of China on Pakistan, and the Pakistani Taliban and Al-Qaeda.

Israel-Gaza War & US Threats: Beth Sanner May 08, 2024

Michael talks with Beth Sanner, a career CIA analyst who concluded her tenure with the federal government as Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Mission Integration at the ODNI from April 2019 to March 2021. She discusses the risks and potential next steps in the Israel-Gaza conflict, Iran and the Middle East, Russia's war on Ukraine, and how she rose through the CIA's ranks to become a world-class analyst specializing in South Asia.

Catching the 'Queen of Cuba' Spy: Peter Lapp May 01, 2024

Michael talks with retired FBI Special Agent Peter Lapp about his new book, "Queen of Cuba: An FBI Agent's Insider Account of the Spy Who Evaded Detection for 17 Years." Peter unveils the remarkable case of Ana Montes, the Defense Intelligence Agency senior analyst who was arrested 10 days after 9/11 for spying for Cuba. Together, Michael and Peter delve into Montes's audacious activities for communist Cuba, the unraveling of her espionage work, her prosecution and current whereabouts.

Cyber Intelligence: Andrew Boyd Apr 24, 2024

Andy speaks with former CIA Center for Cyber Intelligence Director Andrew Boyd about protecting systems from the most sophisticated cyber terrorism and hacking attempts. Andrew outlines the current cyber threats posed by China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and non-state actors like ransomware groups. Andy and Andrew also discuss the US cybersecurity strategy, partnerships between the government and the private sector, and challenges around emerging technologies like AI.

ISIS-K: Former CIA Executive Dave Pitts Apr 17, 2024

Michael talks to Former Assistant Director of CIA for South and Central Asia Dave Pitts about the threat of ISIS-K. Before retiring in October, Pitts was among the last American officials on the ground during the US withdrawal from Afghstanistan in August 2021. He discusses the growing threat of ISIS-K, which has been operating in the country, and around the region. Michael and Dave also reflect on the state of Al-Qaeda.

Worldwide Threats: Michael & Andy Apr 10, 2024

Michael and Andy discuss the 2024 worldwide threat report from the Intelligence Community. They discuss frontier issues including space and ISIS-K, and longtime US adversaries including Iran and China. They offer their candid reactions to the unclassified publicly released annual assessment, and what it means for the future of global security.

Somalia & Ukraine: Army Ranger veteran James Lechner Apr 03, 2024

Michael talks with Army Ranger veteran LTC (Ret.) James Lechner about his book "With My Shield: An Army Ranger in Somalia" about his experience on the ground in Mogadishu in 1993 during the Black Hawk Down raid. They also discuss his recent experience in Ukraine.

National Security Law: Judge James Baker Mar 27, 2024

Andy talks about national security law with former Chief Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces James Baker. He's currently the Director of the Institute of Security Policy and Law at Syracuse University. He has authored several books, including "The Centaur’s Dilemma: National Security Law for the Coming AI Revolution".

Iran: John Sotos Mar 20, 2024

Michael speaks with former CIA analyst John Sotos, who's an expert on Iran. He's now Chief of Analysis at PersuMedia. They discuss Iran's goals in the Mideast, its relations with the US, domestic support for the Iranian regime and the modern-day challenges Iran faces since the Iranian Revolution.

Gender & Disguise at the CIA: Jonna Mendez Mar 13, 2024

Michael talks with Jonna Mendez, who authored the new memoir: "In True Face: A Woman's Life in the CIA, Unmasked". Jonna served nearly 30 years undercover with the CIA, retiring as its Chief of Disguise. She discusses working as a woman at the intelligence agency dominated by men, and her career that took her around the world and into the Oval Office.

Tech at the CIA: Nand Mulchandani Mar 06, 2024

Andy talks with the CIA's first-ever Chief Technology Officer, Nand Mulchandani, who was named to the job by Director William Burns in April 2022. With Nand's roots in Silicon Valley, Andy discusses what he brings to the job and new opportunities for growth and investment.

'Live' at Yale Feb 28, 2024

Michael and Andy speak to International Security Studies students and community members at Yale, in New Haven, Connecticut, for a special episode. Moderated by the Jackson School of Global Affairs's Ted Wittenstein, they discuss the challenges facing US intelligence agencies today including China, Russia, and the Israel-Gaza war. They also talk about what it takes to be a superior intelligence officer and analyst, and how to make national security decisions in the 21st century.

The Art of Strategy: Hal Brands Feb 21, 2024

Michael talks with Hal Brands, who edited the new book "The New Makers of Modern Strategy: From the Ancient World to the Digital Age." It focuses on how the theory and practice of war and statecraft have been shaped throughout the centuries. Hal is the Henry A. Kissinger Distinguished Professor of Global Affairs at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.

'Live' at Texas A&M Bush School in Washington Feb 14, 2024

Michael and Andy visit the Washington, D.C., campus of the Texas A&M Bush School of Government and Public Service where they record a 'live' episode of the podcast with students and others. They discuss current national security threats, how the government handles classified documents, careers in the intelligence community, and artificial intelligence.

The 'Russian Mindset': Rolf Mowatt-Larssen Feb 07, 2024

Michael talks about the 'Russian mindset' with former CIA Moscow chief Rolf Mowatt-Larssen. He explains how his experience in the former Soviet Union could offer a glimpse into how Russia views its war on Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin's nuclear threats, and the adversity Russians have faced over the decades.

American Dynamism & Tech Innovation: Marc Andreessen Jan 31, 2024

Andy talks with Silicon Valley venture capitalist and software engineer Marc Andreessen about how the American tech sector can innovate for the national interest and how new technologies like AI can improve warfare and defense.

Send us your feedback at intelligencematterspod@gmail.com.

Chinese Cognitive Warfare: Josh Baughman Jan 24, 2024

Andy talks about the complexities and goals of China's cognitive warfare program with Josh Baughman, an analyst at the China Aerospace Studies Institute at Air University.

Targeting a Nuclear Smuggler: Jim Lawler Jan 17, 2024

Andy talks with former Chief of the CIA's Counterproliferation Division's Special Activities Unit Jim Lawler about the agency's efforts targeting the 'Father of Pakistan's Nuclear Program' the late Abdul Qadeer Khan. Andy also talks with Jim about his espionage novels including 'Living Lies', 'In the Twinkling of an Eye' and 'The Traitor's Tale'.

Send us your feedback at intelligencematterspod@gmail.com.

Taiwan: Bonnie Glaser Jan 09, 2024

Michael talks with Taiwan expert Bonnie Glaser, who is managing director of the German Marshall Fund's Indo-Pacific Program, ahead of Taiwan's elections January 13.

Also, Michael and Andy want to hear from you. Send us your feedback at intelligencematterspod@gmail.com. We'll also read some of your reviews of the podcast from Apple onair.

The Year of Living Dangerously: Michael Allen Jan 03, 2024

In this special episode, Beacon Global Strategies Managing Director Michael Allen turns the microphones on Michael and Andy and interviews them about their forecasts for national security and intelligence in 2024.

Artificial Ingelligence: Klon Kitchen Dec 27, 2023

Andy talks with Beacon Global Strategies's Klon Kitchen about artificial intelligence and national security. Klon leads the firm's Global Technology Policy Practice. Andy and Klon also talk about the recent Executive Order on AI.

The Evolution of Warfare: Gen. David Petraeus Dec 20, 2023

Andrew talks with Gen. David Petraeus about his new book "Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine" which was co-authored with acclaimed military historian Andrew Roberts. Andrew and the former CIA Director discuss decades of U.S. military strategy, China, Iraq, Afghanistan, Ukraine, and the Israel-Gaza War.

Advising the President: Former National Security Advisors Tom Donilon & Steve Hadley Dec 13, 2023

Michael speaks to two former White House National Security Advisors: Tom Donilon and Steve Hadley. They discuss the NSC advisory process, the Israel-Gaza War, China and Russia, and 21st century challenges to intelligence and national security.

FISA Section 702: White House Advisor Josh Geltzer Returns Dec 06, 2023

Deputy Assistant to the President & White House Deputy Homeland Security Advisor Josh Geltzer returns to Intelligence Matters to discuss with Michael the urgent need for Congress to reauthorize FISA Section 702, before it's due to sunset at the end of the month.

'By All Means Available': Inside the CIA & Special Ops with Mike Vickers Nov 29, 2023

Michael talks with former Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence Mike Vickers about his career chronicled in his new book “By All Means Available: Memoirs of a Life in Intelligence, Special Operations, and Strategy."

Geospatial Intelligence: NGA Director Vice Admiral Frank "Trey" Whitworth Nov 22, 2023

Michael speaks with the Director of the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency Vice Admiral Frank "Trey" Whitworth. They discuss new technologies in satellite imagery and data analysis, careers at NGA, and the vital roles officers at NGA serve in protecting the United States.

China: Chris Johnson Nov 15, 2023

As President Biden prepares to meet today (Wednesday November 15) with Chinese Premier Xi Jingping in San Francisco on the sidelines of APEC, Michael speaks with CEO of China Strategies Group Chris Johnson about relations between the two countries, what they are expected to discuss, and how they might work together and against each other.

Russia's War on Ukraine: Andrea Kendall-Taylor Nov 08, 2023

Andy talks with Andrea Kendall-Taylor, she's a former CIA analyst and is now a Senior Fellow and Director of the Transatlantic Security Program at CNAS. They discuss what's at stake in Russia's war on Ukraine, and what could be next.

Mideast Crisis: Leon Panetta Nov 01, 2023

Former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta joins Michael to discuss the Israel-Gaza war, and the threats to democracy around the world.

FISA Section 702: White House Advisor Josh Geltzer Oct 25, 2023

Michael talks with Josh Geltzer, Deputy Assistant to the President, Deputy White House Counsel, & Legal Advisor to the Nation Security Council, about the pending reauthorization of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.

Unfortunately, our recording of Josh falls short of reflecting how he sounds as true to life as he does in person. We'll fix that the next time Josh joins Michael.

Israel's War on Hamas: Analysis Oct 18, 2023

Michael introduces new co-host of Intelligence Matters: The Relaunch, Andrew Makridis. The former CIA Chief Operating Officer, who retired in 2022, discusses with Michael what could be next for Israel, Hamas, Gaza, the West Bank, Iran and the US. It comes as Israel mounts its assault on Hamas, following the deadly surprise attack by the Palestinian militant group that has been designated as a terrorist organization by the US.

Israel-Gaza War: Eyal Hulata Oct 11, 2023

In the debut episode of Intelligence Matters: The Relaunch, Michael speaks with former National Security Advisor to Israeli Prime Ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid, Eyal Hulata, about the Israel-Gaza war following a weekend surprise attack by Hamas.

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