Explore every episode of the podcast Canadian Intelligence Eh
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quick Hits | So long and thanks for all the fish | 08 Apr 2022 | 00:12:12 | |
Borealis has had a good run since 2015 - podcasts, blogs, media interviews, etc. not to mention six books on terrorism. It is time, however, to move on. This is the last podcast... for now. ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| Episode #134 - What keeps French security forces up at night? | 06 Apr 2022 | 00:20:45 | |
France could be seen as the 'birthplace' of terrorism - think the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution of the 1790s. The country has seen some catastrophic attacks such as the Stade de France/Bataclan jihadi one of November 2015. A new report discusses the state of terrorism in France and Borealis talks to its author Alexandre Rodde from the Gendarmerie Nationale Phil Gurski is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| Episode #127 - What was it like to work as a spy in Canada? | 16 Feb 2022 | 00:34:45 | |
Movies about spies are a dime a dozen - think James Bond. But what is working in intelligence really like? Borealis is joined by Andrew Kirsch, author of a new book "I was never here" Andrew Kirsch served as an intelligence officer with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) for just under a decade. He held roles as a policy analyst and a field investigator, ultimately leading the special operations security team running covert warranted operations. Today, Kirsch runs a security consulting firm, assisting organizations and individuals identify threats and vulnerabilities and implement strategies to mitigate their risk. He was appointed to the Ontario Expert Panel on Cyber Security in 2020, advising the government on strengthening cyber security practices in the broader public sector. He is a public speaker and trainer on issues of national and cyber security. His book – I Was Never Here: My True Canadian Spy Story of Coffees, Code Names and Covert Operations in the Age of Terrorism will be released March 1 st, 2022 and is available for pre-order wherever you buy your books. Phil Gurski is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| Episode #84: Peta Lowe - Young offenders and terrorism - What can we do? | 17 Mar 2021 | 00:43:32 | |
Most societies treat young offenders separately from adults when it comes to crime in general. But what about terrorism? Is terrorism so different that we need to treat young terrorists as adults? Borealis is joined by Australian practitioner Peta Lowe to discuss these issues and more. ►Find out more about my guest Peta Lowe ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| QH #150 | Why declaring 'premature victory' is rarely a good idea | 16 Mar 2021 | 00:10:30 | |
When the Cold War ended with the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 the West declared ‘victory‘ and downed tools on Russia. Recent events have shown that decision to be premature. Borealis cautions against jumping to conclusions about intelligence requirements and priorities. Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| The Ottawa Conference on Security and Defence 2021 doesn't feature any panel on Islamist extremism... | 15 Mar 2021 | 00:03:53 | |
Join me on YouTube Live Mondays and Thursdays at 8 PM EST. I will discuss the latest terrorism and national security news of the day and answer your questions! About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Germany Places Entire Far-Right AfD Party Under Surveillance for Extremism | 14 Mar 2021 | 00:05:07 | |
Join me on YouTube Live every week day at 8 PM EST. I will discuss the latest terrorism and national security news of the day and answer your questions! About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Quick Hits | Top 10 Worst Right-Wing Extremism Group Names | 13 Mar 2021 | 00:10:01 | |
It often helps to poke fun at people who want us to take them seriously. As a follow-up to the popular Top Ten Worst Terrorist Group names, here is Borealis' take on the Top Ten Worst Right-Wing Extremists Group Names. ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| QH #149 | Is it OK to show cartoons that offend? | 12 Mar 2021 | 00:06:26 | |
French teacher Samuel Paty was brutally killed last October after leading a discussion in his class over the so-called Muhammad cartoons: his murderer was not even a student. What is acceptable when it comes to controversial material? About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Mogadishu attack: Car bomb explodes in Somalia's capital and kills at least 20 | 11 Mar 2021 | 00:03:34 | |
Join me on YouTube Live every week day at 8 PM EST. I will discuss the latest terrorism and national security news of the day and answer your questions! About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Episode #83: Kyle Matthews - Is what China is doing to the Uyghurs 'genocide'? | 10 Mar 2021 | 00:26:23 | |
The Canadian parliament just voted to label Chinese policies and actions towards Uyghur Muslims in northwestern Xinjiang province a genocide. Is this the right term? Borealis talks to Concordia University's Director of the Montreal Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies to unpack these issues. ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| QH #148 | Can anything be a terrorist attack? | 09 Mar 2021 | 00:10:17 | |
It seems that everyone is calling everything terrorism these days. It is almost as if the word is in the eye (brain?) of the beholder. Borealis pushes back against this uncareful use in this podcast. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| QH #147 | RWE in Germany is bad, but how does it stack up against other forms of terrorism? | 05 Mar 2021 | 00:10:52 | |
A year ago today a German racist killed 9 people in Hanau because of who they were. Furthermore, 208 people have been killed by far right elements in Germany since 1990. Those numbers are horrific: what is happening elsewhere by comparison? Watch this with video on YouTube. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Episode #126 - Is it time to revisit the mental illness/terrorism nexus? | 09 Feb 2022 | 00:28:03 | |
Many people probably believe that anyone who plans a terrorist attack in which their own death is assured (i.e. a suicide bomb) is mentally suspect. And yet research has shown that most terrorists are as 'normal' as you or me. But are they? Borealis is joined by Norwegian practitioner Atle Mesoy to discuss these matters. Phil Gurski is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| CSIS Intelligence Analyst on Biden's Syria Airstrike: "A knee-jerk reaction to an ongoing problem" | 04 Mar 2021 | 00:02:30 | |
In the first military action undertaken by the Biden administration, the US carried out an air strike targeting Iran-backed militias in Syria. Former CSIS Analyst Phil Gurski shares his opinion on the situation. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| QH #146 | Canadian court decision on Alek Minassian case undermines incel terrorism fear | 03 Mar 2021 | 00:09:41 | |
A court has found Alek Minassian guilty on 26 counts of murder and attempted murder and rejected the autism defence. The judge also rejected the assumption Minassian was an 'incel' and that this was an act of terrorism. What does this all mean? Borealis weighs in! About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Episode #82: Tony McAleer on what is it like to be a former neo-Nazi | 03 Mar 2021 | 00:32:19 | |
Why do people join white supremacist/new-Nazi movements? Why do they get out? Tony McAleer spent 15 years in the white supremacist and neo-nazi movements starting as a skinhead and evolving to leadership positions and was instrumental in ushering in the internet building one of the first white supremacist websites for Resistance Records in the mid 90’s. ►Check out The Cure for Hate by Tony McAleer ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| Canada needs to act on Saudis' targeting of dissidents | 03 Mar 2021 | 00:07:40 | |
The release of a CIA report holding Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman responsible for the brutal death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 matters to Canadians, because the same sort of thing can happen here. We've already seen the evidence. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| UK woman who joined ISIS in Syria is denied return home by High Court | 03 Mar 2021 | 00:05:17 | |
Shamima Begum was a UK citizen who joined ISIS. Now she wants to come home but the government cancelled her citizenship. So now what? About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| QH #145 | Who says RWE is worse than ISIS? | 02 Mar 2021 | 00:11:04 | |
There is a growing tendency to claim that RWE is an existential threat to the world, especially the West. Some are saying that RWE is worse than the threat posed by ISIS. Is this even remotely true? Borealis pushes back against the increased hyperbole over the terrorist reality. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Quick Hits | Top 10 Worst Terrorist Group Names | 28 Feb 2021 | 00:07:47 | |
No, I am not at all dismissing the seriousness of terrorism or the pain and suffering they cause but sometimes laughter (and satire) are indeed the 'best medicine'. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| QH #144 | Why do we have intelligence if it is not acted on? | 26 Feb 2021 | 00:11:17 | |
We hear all the time about 'intelligence failures', the most recent being the attack on the US Capitol in January. But it turns out there was advanced warning about the possibility, if not probability, of violence. Borealis looks at how such failures are anything but. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| William C. Malone: What was it like to be a Canadian police officer in Afghanistan? | 24 Feb 2021 | 00:26:41 | |
Episode 82 - Most Canadians know that we sent thousands of soldiers to Afghanistan beginning in 2002 to help fight Al Qaeda. Far fewer know we sent hundreds of police officers as well. This is the story of one of them, an RCMP officer who spent time there in 2011-12 and wrote a book about it. ►Find out more about my guest William Malone ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| QH #143 | Is Canada's terrorist listing process politically motivated? | 23 Feb 2021 | 00:09:47 | |
Canada listed the Proud Boys as a right wing terrorist group recently in the wake of the Jan 6 riot at the US Capitol. Some saw this as an over reaction. New information has surfaced that pressure was brought to name them despite a lack of evidence. Borealis looks at this issue - again!! About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Episode #125 - What should Canada do with Saudi Arabia? | 02 Feb 2022 | 00:29:45 | |
Three years ago a Saudi 'Tiger Team' tried to assassinate a high-ranking former intel official now living in Canada, Dr Saad Al Jabri. When that failed, the Saudis sued the official, alleging massive fraud. A similar case in the US has just been dismissed as groundless: what should Canada do now? Borealis is rejoined by former CSIS agent Al Treddenick to discuss. Phil Gurski is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| QH #142 | So now the Canadian government is telling us what it terrorism and what is not? | 23 Feb 2021 | 00:11:47 | |
The debate over the events of Jan 6 in Washington continues. Was it terrorism? A riot? A coup? Well, a Canadian Member of Parliament has decided it was most definitely terrorism. Is that OK? Do we want the government to tell us how to think? Borealis weighs in on this trend. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| QH #141 | Doctor charged with 'terrorism' for embarrassing Turkish government over true COVID figures | 19 Feb 2021 | 00:11:00 | |
A doctor in Turkey has been charged with terrorism for embarrassing the government over true COVID figures. How is that terrorism? Borealis looks at how many are widening the scope of the term terrorism to ridiculous ends. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Alexandre Rodde: The terrorist threat to France | 17 Feb 2021 | 00:30:14 | |
Episode 81 - France has suffered a disproportionate number of terrorist attacks, mostly Islamist in nature, in the 2010s and 2020s when compared to other Western nations. Why is this? Borealis is joined by Alexandre Rodde, a French terrorism researcher and trainer for that country's law enforcement to discuss the situation in France. About my guest Alexandre Rodde: ►Find out more about my guest Alexandre Rodde ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| QH #140 | Can someone please tell me why Canada does not have a foreign intelligence service? | 16 Feb 2021 | 00:10:54 | |
Every major Western power has a foreign intelligence service that collects information on the intents and capabilities of foreign states. Except Canada. We do allow CSIS to collect FI as it is called, but in a very constrained way - why? About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| QH #139 | What is next for QAnon? Should we be worried? | 12 Feb 2021 | 00:10:49 | |
QAnon has been shown to not be very good at predictions. Trump lost the election, there is no satanic pedophile cult in the White House, etc. So will it now turn violent... or disappear. Borealis speculates on where this all goes and how much attention we need to pay to it. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Lessons on Terrorism | What can IRON MAN tell us about the 'war on terrorism'? | 12 Feb 2021 | 00:12:57 | |
The 2008 film Ironman starts in Afghanistan where the main character, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr), ends up wounded by shrapnel from one of the weapons his company made. How well does the movie portray the military deployment to Afghanistan and does it show why we should not see counter terrorism as primarily a problem for the army/air force to solve. Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Canada adds 13 groups to terror list - What does it mean? | 12 Feb 2021 | 00:21:04 | |
The federal government has added 13 groups to its list of terror groups, including five ISIS affiliates, and a handful of far-right extremist groups, including the Proud Boys. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Richard Brisson: Is there anything cooler than a codebreaker? | 10 Feb 2021 | 00:31:43 | |
Episode 80 - The race between codemakers and codebreakers is an ancient one. Success in breaking the enemy's codes often turns defeat into victory on the battlefield. Borealis sits down with former Canadian cryptologist Richard Brisson to talk about this fascinating field. ►Find out more about my guest Richard Brisson ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| QH #138 | We need to call religious extremism what it is - extreme! | 09 Feb 2021 | 00:11:20 | |
Religion can inspire heights of magnificence and depths of violence. Each faith has a wide range of interpretations from 'normative' to 'extreme'. 'Extreme' does not mean violent, but extreme views can endanger the public. Borealis looks at extreme views that may not be violent but which still can an effect on public safety. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| QH #137 | When a government 'delists' a terrorist group, it shows how political the process really is | 05 Feb 2021 | 00:11:52 | |
20 years ago the Canadian government decided to list the Iranian group MeK as a terrorist group. Ten years later a different government elected to 'delist' it. Why? Had it changed its ways? If not, what does this say about the whole process? Borealis comes out against the whole process of listings, calling it more or less useless. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Episode #124 - Policing a capital city during a major demonstration | 01 Feb 2022 | 00:26:31 | |
When you are the chief of police of a major city or, more narrowly a national capital, things get complicated. Not only are there everyday issues (traffic, petty crime, etc.) but also national security ones and there are often multiple police jurisdictions at play. As Ottawa is still dealing with an anti-vaccine mandate trucking convoy, Borealis talks to former Ottawa Chief of Police Charles Bordeleau. Phil Gurski is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| QH #136 | Yes, the Canadian terrorist listing process is political and it is not necessary | 04 Feb 2021 | 00:10:04 | |
So, the Canadian government just listed 13 more groups to its terrorist entities list, including the Proud Boys, 3 Al Qaida affiliates and 5 ISIS franchises. To what end? Borealis weighs in on the usefulness or lack thereof of this process. About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| QH #135 | Do we need Canadian MPs to tell us what is a terrorist group | 04 Feb 2021 | 00:10:36 | |
Canadian parliamentarians recently voted unanimously to name the Proud Boys a terrorist group. What does this mean? Is it necessary? Borealis discusses the usefulness or lack thereof of the 'terrorist listing' process in Canada.
About the host Phil Gurski: Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Christopher Parsons: How non-government agencies give us some insight into bad things online | 03 Feb 2021 | 00:38:04 | |
We are all used to hearing how the FBIs, CSISs and GCHQs of this world monitor online activity to help keep us safe and protect critical infrastructure. What, then, is the role of the private sector? Borealis sits down with Chris Parsons of Canada's Citizen Lab to have a chat on these issues. About my guest Christopher Parsons: ►Find out more about my guest Christopher Parson ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| QH #134 | Is woke culture affecting counter-terrorist efforts in the West? | 02 Feb 2021 | 00:14:05 | |
Everywhere you read these days you see references to right wing terrorism as the predominant threat to the West. This flies in the face of all the data which shows that at least on a worldwide basis Islamist terrorists kill and wound people, most of whom are Muslims, at orders of magnitude greater than right wing actors. Borealis weighs in on this shift in attention and argues that it is wrong. Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| QH #133 | Borealis has a new book on terrorism in Canada - here's a preview! | 30 Jan 2021 | 00:11:25 | |
While Canada has not been menaced by terrorism like some countries it is not immune. A new book on terrorism in that land over the past 150 years - The Peaceable Kingdom: A history of terrorism in Canada from Confederation to the present - is now out! Borealis takes you behind the scenes of this book. Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| QH #132 | What will right-wing extremists do after Trump? | 29 Jan 2021 | 00:13:55 | |
Many in the so-called right-wing extremist (RWE) are confused now that Trump is no longer the 'oil' that greases their movements. QAnon, the Proud Boys and others are registering disappointment and anger at their lack of success. Whither the far-right? Borealis looks at what may be next for RWE. ► Biden's inauguration sows doubt among QAnon conspiracy theorists on CBC Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Lessons on Terrorism | How CAPTAIN MARVEL badly uses the word 'terrorism' | 28 Jan 2021 | 00:11:36 | |
Many people use the word terrorism to refer to all kinds of things. Not all these uses are good ones. Borealis looks at the 2019 film Captain Marvel to see how the word is deployed badly. Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Tom Parker: Respect for human rights is the key to defeating terrorism. Can we get there? | 27 Jan 2021 | 00:42:11 | |
What is the role of respect for human rights in counterterrorism? Borealis talks to UK practitioner Tom Parker on what we have done well and what not so well. About my guest Tom Parker: ►Find out more about my guest Tom Parker ►Check Phil's latest book ''When Religion Kills'' - https://amzn.to/2ALdpoG | |||
| QH #131 | So what's up with Christian extremism? | 26 Jan 2021 | 00:12:58 | |
The 30 Years' War was one in which Christians on one side slaughtered Christians on the other. The massacres were perpetrated based on difference in religious interpretation. Today of course we talk a lot about religious terrorism, especially of the Islamist variety. What about Christian extremism, both violent and non-violent? Borealis looks at this brand of terrorism and the links between Christians and the far right. ►Erasmus’s teachings are still pertinent today on The Economist Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| QH #130 | Why I do what I do | 22 Jan 2021 | 00:10:14 | |
Borealis has been in business for almost 6 years, providing content on national security and public safety. Why does he do it? In this podcast, Borealis provides some insight into why an old retired guy is dedicated to creating this material and for whom. Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. | |||
| Quick Hits | Now there's a person on a mission | 27 Jan 2022 | 00:09:30 | |
An interview with Christine Veer, entrepreneur & investigator. She shares a little on her background and why she’s passionate about making a difference in the world of national security, especially counter-terrorism. You can also learn more about her through her Linkedin profile at www.linkedin.com/in/christine-veer/ ►Check Phil's latest book ''The Peaceable Kingdom'' - https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/the-peaceable-kingdom/ | |||
| John Ferris: Why would the Brits ask a Canadian to write their official SIGINT history? | 20 Jan 2021 | 00:33:58 | |
GCHQ is a famous British signals intelligence (SIGINT) agency perhaps best known for its work at Bletchley Park during WWII. The spy service decided to have its official history written – and chose a Canadian to do so! About my guest John Ferris ►Check Phil's latest book ''When Religion Kills'' - https://amzn.to/2ALdpoG | |||
| QH #129 | Can we be more consistent in our use of language when talking about terrorism? | 19 Jan 2021 | 00:09:29 | |
Headlines are the first thing we see when we consume news. They thus help us form a first impression. Should they then not be carefully written? Borealis looks at this issue in the context of RWE and the US military. Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. Are we calling too many things ‘terrorism’? | |||
| QH #128 | No, the Capitol riot was not an 'intelligence failure' | 15 Jan 2021 | 00:11:17 | |
Security intelligence agencies are damned if they do and damned if they don't. Stop an act of violence from happening and they are called overbearing: fail to do so and they are called incompentent. In this podcast Borealis pushes back that the US intelligence community 'failed' on January 6. Phil is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. and Programme Director for the Security, Economics and Technology (SET) hub at the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute (PDI). He worked as a senior strategic analyst at CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) from 2001-2015, specializing in violent Islamist-inspired homegrown terrorism and radicalisation. Are we calling too many things ‘terrorism’? | |||