This week, Elisa breaks down the latest headlines in national security law as the government shutdown stretches into its fourth week. From Russia’s attacks on eastern Ukraine to the growing energy needs of artificial intelligence, she connects how today’s developments are shaping policy and security. Elisa also covers the recent U.S. military plane…

The Standing Committee’s 35th Annual Review of the Field of National Security Law is almost here. This week, Elisa sits down with Standing Committee Chair Stephen Preston to highlight what’s ahead at this year’s conference—taking place November 13–14 in Washington, DC. From keynotes on artificial intelligence and defense innovation to panels explor…

Once envisioned as a nonprofit dedicated to advancing AI for the benefit of humanity, OpenAI has since become one of the most powerful—and controversial—companies in the world. This week, Elisa Poteat sits down with Karen Hao, author of Empire AI, to examine how ambition, secrecy, and competition reshaped the organization’s mission. From the erosio…

With hundreds of thousands of federal employees furloughed, the consequences of another government shutdown are hitting home. This week, Elisa is joined by Max Stier, President and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, to break down how shutdowns became a political tool—and what they cost the American people. Alongside guest host Harvey Rishik…

Can a sanctions law be used to set trade policy? In this episode, Elisa sits down with Rachel Alpert, former OFAC Chief Counsel and now a Partner at Jenner & Block, to explore how the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) has evolved—and why its use to justify tariffs is drawing scrutiny. Together, they trace the law’s origins, examin…

From OPEC cartels to U.S. shale revolutions, energy markets have long stood at the center of global power struggles. This week, Elisa is joined by Elaine Levin, energy markets expert and president of Powerhouse, to unpack today’s oil and gas landscape—examining U.S. refining bottlenecks, political pressures on production, and how rising demand from…

With FISA Section 702 up for reauthorization in 6 months, we’re revisiting the basics of this contested surveillance authority. In this extended episode, Elisa first speaks with Josh Geltzer, former Deputy Assistant to President Biden and Deputy Homeland Security Advisor with the National Security Council, to break down what 702 is and why it’s so …

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case challenging the use of emergency powers to impose sweeping tariffs—setting the stage for a ruling that could reshape U.S. trade policy. This week, Elisa is joined by David Ross and Kelly Dunbar of Wilmer Hale to break down the Federal Circuit’s recent decision in V.O.S. Selections, Inc. v. Trump. Togeth…

The aftermath of President Trump’s meeting with Vladimir Putin continues to raise difficult questions. In Part 2 of this two-part episode, Elisa is joined again by Rob Dannenberg—former CIA officer and two-time Moscow Station Chief—to look beyond the summit table. Together, they explore Ukraine’s bold Operation Spiderweb, the controlled flow of inf…

Days after President Trump’s meeting with Vladimir Putin, questions remain: what was gained, what was conceded, and what does it mean for Ukraine? In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa is joined by Rob Dannenberg—former CIA officer and two-time Moscow Station Chief—to examine the dynamics of the Alaska summit. They discuss Putin’s shifting dema…

In the wake of President Trump and Vladimir Putin’s summit in Alaska, we turn our focus back to the nation that remains central to their agenda—Ukraine. Since the sixth century, Ukraine has been the site of many incursions from the east and west, from Ghengis Khan, to the Ottomans, Swedes, Poles, and more. This week, host Elisa is joined by Russia …

In Myanmar’s remote Kachin State, a rebel militia now controls one of the world’s most strategic mineral frontiers. In Part 2 of this two-part episode, Elisa and journalist Timothy McLaughlin explore the realities of rare earth mining in the region—from environmental damage and unsafe labor conditions to the steady flow of minerals into China. Toge…

In Myanmar’s remote Kachin State, a rebel militia now controls one of the world’s most strategic mineral frontiers. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa speaks with journalist Timothy McLaughlin about the Kachin Independence Army’s takeover of the Pangwa region—rich in rare earth minerals vital to wind turbines, electric vehicles, and advanced…

In Part 2 of this two-part episode, Elisa continues her conversation with Tyler O’Connor, Partner at Crowell & Moring and former Energy Counsel to the House Energy & Commerce Committee, to explore the evolving role of the National Defense Authorization Act. Together, they break down how the NDAA is expanding the Department of Energy’s reach, creati…

A new wave of energy legislation is changing the incentives–and the direction–of U.S. energy policy. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa sits down with Tyler O’Connor, Partner at Crowell & Moring and former Energy Counsel to the House Energy & Commerce Committee, to unpack the recently passed “One Big Beautiful Bill.” They discuss how the leg…

This week, Elisa is joined by John A. Lauder—former CIA official, arms control negotiator, and current Senior Fellow at the Wisconsin Project on Nuclear Arms Control—to examine the tension between nuclear innovation and nonproliferation. From the postwar promise of Atoms for Peace to today’s AI-fueled energy demands, they unpack the rising interest…

In the race for critical minerals, legal frameworks are becoming as important as supply chains. This week, Elisa is joined by Brian Egan, Partner at Skadden and former Legal Adviser at the State Department and National Security Council, to unpack the legal complexities behind securing minerals from foreign—and often unfriendly—nations. From sanctio…

In Part 2 of their two-part discussion, Elisa and Dr. Koroush Shirvan of MIT’s Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering explore how small-scale reactors compare to other green alternatives, why the U.S. continues to trail global leaders, and what policy and infrastructure gaps must be addressed to move forward. They also discuss rising energy …

As pressure mounts to modernize America’s energy systems, nuclear power is back on the table. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa is joined by Dr. Koroush Shirvan, nuclear expert and professor in MIT’s Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering, to break down the fundamentals of nuclear energy and its potential role in national security. T…

The recent dismissal of the Judge Advocates General of the Army and Air Force has raised new questions about the role of independent legal advice in the U.S. military. This week, we’re airing a special rebroadcast of our May 28th live program on the role of Judge Advocates General in advising military leadership and upholding the law of armed confl…

In Part 2 of their conversation, Elisa and Kieran Ramsey, Chief Investigative Officer at Global Reach and former FBI Special Agent, explore how companies can better prepare their people and operations for high-threat environments. From travel security to cultural blind spots, they discuss why planning, awareness, and proactive leadership are key to…

As global demand for energy surges, so do the risks for those working to meet it. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa is joined by Kieran Ramsey, Chief Investigative Officer at Global Reach and former Director of the FBI’s Hostage Recovery Fusion Cell, to explore the dangers facing energy professionals operating abroad. Together, they examine…

As energy demands surge, protecting the U.S. power grid has become a national security imperative. In Part 2 of their conversation, Elisa and Dr. Jonathan Snodgrass of Texas A&M examine the next layer of challenges facing America’s electric grid—from the need for trained personnel to the importance of critical load prioritization. They discuss how …

Is our grid capable of supporting our energy needs? In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa is joined by Dr. Jonathan Snodgrass of Texas A&M to break down what the electric grid is, who maintains it, and how its vulnerabilities could impact national security. From critical military systems to daily necessities like transportation and groceries, t…

China’s growing presence in African port development is shifting global power dynamics. This week, Elisa is joined by Paul Nantulya of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies to examine China’s growing influence across the continent’s maritime infrastructure. Drawing from his recent study, they discuss how port investments tie into China’s long-ter…

As misinformation fuels mistrust, the challenge ahead is restoring shared civic ground. In Part 2 of their conversation, Elisa is joined by Barbara McQuade, Professor at the University of Michigan Law School and former U.S. Attorney, to examine the legal, cultural, and educational solutions that could help strengthen democratic stability. Drawing f…

Changes in how we share and receive information are reshaping democratic stability. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa sits down with Barbara McQuade, Professor at the University of Michigan Law School and former U.S. Attorney, to examine how disinformation, digital echo chambers, and the decline of civic infrastructure are reshaping public …

A growing number of teenage boys in the U.S. are being targeted by large-scale financial sextortion schemes. This week, Elisa sits down with cybercrime expert Paul Raffile to uncover the scale and tactics behind this global blackmail operation, how social media platforms are enabling it, and what it means for the future of America’s workforce. From…

Tariffs have been shaping American policy since 1792, but the legal framework behind them is anything but settled. This week, Elisa is joined by Professor Kathleen Claussen of Georgetown Law to unpack the constitutional authority for imposing tariffs, how presidents have used emergency powers to reshape trade policy, and why legal challenges contin…

(Part 2 of 2) This week, Elisa and Mark Mills explore the growing energy demands of digital infrastructure, and why hydrocarbons remain central to global energy forecasts. They examine the intersection of technology, defense readiness, and long-term energy strategy in an era defined by rising demand and complex supply chains. Mark Mills is founder …

Behind every battery lies a complex web of minerals, mining, and global politics. In Part 1 of this two-part discussion, Elisa is joined by Mark Mills, founder and executive director of the National Center for Energy Analytics, to explore how—and why—America’s mining and processing capabilities have fallen behind. Together, they break down which mi…

As energy needs skyrocket and climate pressure mounts, the conversation around nuclear is shifting—from fear to feasibility. In Part 2 of their discussion, Elisa and Dr. Jeff Waksman dive into the historical baggage, policy bottlenecks, and environmental considerations shaping nuclear’s future. They explore common misconceptions about reactor safet…

Nuclear energy is back in the spotlight as policymakers and innovators look for faster, cleaner, and more reliable energy solutions. This week, Elisa is joined by Dr. Jeff Waksman, Program Manager at the Department of Defense’s Strategic Capabilities Office, to explore Project Pele—an initiative designed to fast-track the development of mobile nucl…

As AI continues to evolve, what must be done to balance innovation with security and sustainability? In Part 2 of their discussion, Elisa and Dr. Vijay Janapa Reddi dive into the growing energy demands of AI systems, their role in national security, and the challenges of ensuring responsible development. They discuss how AI’s reliance on vast amoun…

The AI revolution is just beginning, and its future depends on how we shape its systems, data, and ethics today. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa sits down with Dr. Vijay Janapa Reddi, Harvard professor and AI systems expert, to break down the three core categories of AI systems—generative, predictive, and prescriptive—and how they functio…

(Part 2 of 2) As global demand for AI, battery technology, and clean energy surges, critical minerals have become essential to powering innovation and protecting national security. To kick off our new series exploring the global race for these vital resources, Elisa sits down with Tommy Beaudreau, former Deputy Secretary of the Interior and Partner…

As global demand for AI, battery technology, and clean energy surges, critical minerals have become essential to powering innovation and protecting national security. To kick off our new series exploring the global race for these vital resources, Elisa sits down with Tommy Beaudreau, former Deputy Secretary of the Interior and Partner at WilmerHale…

This week, Elisa highlights a few of the latest national security headlines, and sets the stage for our upcoming series on the energy grid and the critical minerals essential for AI development. References Check out the Standing Committee on Law and National Security’s latest video series, Strengthening Democracy: A Civics Education Series for Mili…

With the confirmations process well underway, we're taking a fresh look at how it all works. Revisiting a conversation from this past December, Elisa sits down with retired Marine Corps Major General Arnold Punaro, a veteran of Capitol Hill and author of If Confirmed: An Insider’s View of the National Security Process. Together, they explore the th…

As 2025 unfolds, the new administration faces its first major national security challenges: preserving a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East and addressing the contentious TikTok legal battle. In this week’s double episode, Elisa first speaks with Brian Egan, former Legal Adviser at the Department of State, to unpack the Gaza ceasefire, the role o…

The Supreme Court has heard the case that could decide TikTok’s fate in the U.S. This week, Glenn Gerstell returns with Elisa Poteat to discuss the national security concerns that sparked the legal challenge and the broader implications of the hearing. Together, they examine ByteDance’s key arguments, the government’s case, and how a ruling could r…

As the new year unfolds, how have 2024’s defining national security moments set the stage for what’s ahead? This week, Elisa Poteat is joined by Harvey Rishikof, former chair of the ABA Standing Committee on Law and National Security, for a big-picture review of the past year. Together, they discuss emerging challenges in geopolitics, AI’s growing …

How does a centuries-old constitutional power continue to influence the modern balance of government? This week, Elisa speaks with Neil Eggleston, former White House Counsel to President Obama, to delve into the history and controversies surrounding recess appointments. Together, they explore the historical roots of this executive power, landmark c…

TikTok’s growing influence and its connections to national security remain hot topics in Washington. This week, Elisa sits down with Glenn Gerstell, former General Counsel of the National Security Agency, to examine the legal battles surrounding TikTok, including a recent D.C. Circuit Court ruling. Together, they unpack the implications of foreign …

This week, Baer goes through the spotify wrap up! So much thankfulness for all that helped contribute to the best year in podcasting yet! Baer has some empire building to do, so he won't be around in Q1 but will be back Q2 for some more awesome Security Today Podcast content!

(Part 2 of 2) The nominations and confirmations process is a cornerstone of American governance, but how does it actually work? Continuing our discussion on the confirmation process, Elisa sits down with retired Marine Corps Major General Arnold Punaro, a veteran of Capitol Hill and author of If Confirmed: An Insider’s View of the National Security…

The nominations and confirmations process is a cornerstone of American governance, but how does it actually work? Continuing our discussion on the confirmation process, Elisa sits down with retired Marine Corps Major General Arnold Punaro, a veteran of Capitol Hill and author of If Confirmed: An Insider’s View of the National Security Process. Toge…

No News and Highlights this week just a reminder to rest, a few shout-outs and a plug for the webinar which you can sign up @: blackpicketfence.kit.com/tiktok

From vetting nominees to navigating Senate committees, the process of appointing leaders in the Executive Branch is both intricate and essential. This week, Elisa Poteat welcomes Erik Swabb, Partner at WilmerHale and former General Counsel of the Senate Armed Services Committee, to demystify the confirmation process. Together, they explore how nomi…

This week we take a look at a free ONVIF course (check below), Baer tells you about WiFi HaLow and using Zenitel's Connect Pro platform we discuss why it is so important that we are integrating environments into one another. ChitChat: https://www.onvif.org/about/introduction-to-onvif-course/ Product Highlight: https://www.securityinformed.com/news/…