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Explore every episode of the podcast Deep Dish on Global Affairs

Dive into the complete episode list for Deep Dish on Global Affairs. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
80th Birthday Blues: UN's Fight to Stay Relevant24 Sep 202500:28:52

As the United Nations turns 80, it faces a legitimacy crisis fueled by budget cuts, global crises, and a United States President that is antagonistic toward the institution. This week’s UNGA highlights the stakes: What is the future US role on the global stage? Can the UN still deliver in a fractured world? Will a woman be the next UN Secretary General? Longtime UN insiders Corinne Momal-Vanian and Richard Gowan discuss.

Why Trump’s State Visit Could Shape the UK’s Next Chapter18 Sep 202500:26:41

President Trump’s state visit comes at a precarious time for Britain: weak growth, political turbulence, and pressure to reset its ties with the EU. With Prime Minister Keir Starmer forging a strategic bond with Trump, what’s next for the US-UK relationship? New York Times London Bureau Chief Mark Landler explains what lies ahead.

Why Dambisa Moyo Thinks This Economic Moment is Different11 Sep 202500:28:08

From slowing growth, tariffs and widening inequality, the rules of the global economy are being rewritten and affecting us all. Baroness Dambisa Moyo shares her insights on the forces driving this new reality and what it means for countries, leaders, and citizens alike.

Jan Egeland on Syria’s Defining Moment and a Humanitarian Reset04 Sep 202500:26:05

Syria’s war may have faded from the headlines, but for millions of refugees, the crisis is far from over. Jan Egeland, head of the Norwegian Refugee Council, explains why global aid is failing and what the world must do now to fix it. From Gaza to Syria, he shares how to reset a broken system and rebuild hope as the UN turns 80. 

Why Beating China Might Be the U.S.’ Wrong Focus28 Aug 202500:25:41

Almost every conversation about China is framed as an all-out competition—but expert Jessica Chen Weiss argues that reflexive rivalry is making America weaker, not stronger. She breaks down why resilience matters more than dominance, how strategic integration protects US interests, and why “beating” China shouldn’t be the ultimate goal.

The US and Europe Unite with Ukraine—What Comes Next?21 Aug 202500:31:22

As Ukraine calls for security and support, world leaders juggle high-stakes negotiations and competing interests. Alexander Cooley and Alex Dukalskis, authors of Dictating the Agenda: The Authoritarian Resurgence in World Politics, unpack how authoritarian strategies are influencing the talks and argue that negotiating peace isn’t just about stopping the fighting—it’s about who walks away with the leverage.

Is India Under Pressure to Pick a Side?14 Aug 202500:28:43

India’s rise is undeniable—but so are the roadblocks. With President Trump threatening to double tariffs over Russian oil imports and China on its doorstep, can the world’s largest democracy maintain its strategic autonomy? Foreign Policy’s Ravi Agrawal and University of Chicago’s Raghuram Rajan explore.

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Trump’s Tariffs: Can Global Trade Survive the Shock?07 Aug 202500:29:48

A fresh round of reciprocal tariffs from President Trump has rattled markets and prompted concern over the future of trade. As uncertainty grows for businesses, consumers, and governments alike, two leading experts, Brent Neiman of the University of Chicago and David Henig of the European Centre for International Political Economy, join Deep Dish to unpack the implications for the global economic system.

Is Gaza’s Hunger Crisis Driving the World to Recognize a Palestinian State?31 Jul 202500:23:56

Starvation is spreading in Gaza—not because of a lack of aid, but because humanitarian access is being blocked. Former UN World Food Programme Executive Director and Council Distinguished Fellow Ertharin Cousin joins Deep Dish to analyze how the crisis is fueling a broader diplomatic reckoning, with more nations moving toward recognition of a Palestinian state.  

 

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Behind the Global Race for AI Dominance24 Jul 202500:22:13

The US and China are locked in a high-stakes race to dominate AI and the chips that power it. As the Trump administration lifts export controls and sets tech priorities, Beijing is doubling down on its AI ambitions while hosting top EU leaders. Nikita Lalwani, former White House director for technology and national security, breaks down what this means for global power. 

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BRICS: Powerful Bloc or Political Theater?17 Jul 202500:22:50

With President Trump’s increasing tariff threats and growing talks of dedollarization, how much power does the BRICS bloc really hold? Lord Jim O’Neill, who originally coined the term BRICS, joins Deep Dish to unpack its rise and global relevance amid deepening geopolitical rivalries.  

US Grand Strategy in a Fractured World10 Jul 202500:35:08

The pandemic cracked the foundation of the global system—and things haven’t exactly settled. With wars, rising tensions, and global rivalries heating up, former Biden officials Colin Kahl and Tom Wright join Deep Dish to unpack how US strategy is shifting—and where it’s headed next.

Beyond the Ceasefire: Iran’s Future, America’s Role, and What's Next03 Jul 202500:26:21

After US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, a fragile ceasefire with Israel is holding—for now. But is this a turning point or just a pause before more conflict? Experts Vali Nasr and Suzanne Maloney join Leslie Vinjamuri on Deep Dish to break down what’s really at stake for Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Israel’s strategy, and the future of the region.

Should the US Embrace or Reject Engagement with China?23 Nov 202300:30:24

Chinese leader Xi Jinping is in his third five-year term as the nation's president, putting him on track to stay in power for life at a time of severe economic challenges and rising tensions with the US. Nonresident senior fellow Paul Heer joins Deep Dish to argue the importance of engagement with China as a necessary component of US foreign policy. If we do not pursue it, he says, we are missing opportunities for a more peaceful coexistence between both countries and the world.  

This episode originally aired on August 4, 2022. 

 

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How to Change the World: Why Quick Fixes Fail and What to Do16 Nov 202300:34:46

Dive into the world of lasting change with Deep Dish! Join host Brian Hanson and author Sascha Haselmayer in a captivating exploration of 'The Slow Lane.' We’ll uncover the secrets behind why instant solutions often miss the mark, and how embracing patience and strategic thinking can pave the way for sustainable transformation to address global challenges.

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This Era of Hostage Diplomacy Requires New Answers09 Nov 202300:35:02

From Hamas to Russia to Iran, hostage-taking is on the rise once again and hostage diplomacy has entered that arsenal of foreign policy tools by countries around the world. This week, Northwestern University’s Dani Gilbert guides us through what is new, what has worked and failed in the past, and why countries need new ways to respond to hostage-taking today.  

 

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How Partisan is US Foreign Policy?02 Nov 202300:24:21

Deep Dish explores how America’s hyper partisan politics are impacting foreign policy actions. Author Jordan Tama shares revelations from his new book, while the Council’s Dina Smeltz unveils fresh survey data to expose how partisanship plays out in US foreign policy. 

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Could an Asian NATO be in the Cards?26 Oct 202300:29:37

The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing a seismic shift in power dynamics as nations like Japan, Australia, and the US forge a game-changing partnership to counter China's influence. The big question: could this lead to a new NATO for the Pacific? And what would that mean? Experts Michael Green and Karl Friedhoff dissect the motives, strategies, and potential outcomes. 

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Is Poland's General Election a Turning Point for the Nation?19 Oct 202300:26:10

On Sunday, Poland’s opposition parties won a victory in the country’s general election signaling a radical change for the country. After emerging as a major EU success story, Poland’s politics shifted dramatically almost a decade ago, putting it on a nationalist path dominated by a far-right coalition. But now the country appears headed back in a pro-EU direction. Expert Monika Sus and host Lizzy Shackelford shed light on the country's shifting politics and changing role in the global landscape.

Gaza: Epicenter of the Israel-Hamas War12 Oct 202300:25:56

Deep Dish delves into the heart of the Gaza Strip. Expert Michael Merryman-Lotze and host Brian Hanson discuss its complex history, its people, the role of the region in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and its place in the Israel-Hamas war that has shaken the world.

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Energy Insecurity: Where Climate Change Meets Geopolitics05 Oct 202300:33:12

How is energy insecurity shaping the world's power dynamics? From the urgency of collaboration to the delicate balance between environmental sustainability and national interests, guests Jason Bordoff and Meghan O'Sullivan offer a fresh perspective on the complexities of green energy underlying our modern global landscape.

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BRICS Expansion Explained: New Members, New Challenges28 Sep 202300:21:06

Deep Dish demystifies the world of BRICS+ and delves into the intriguing expansion that is making waves in international diplomacy. Discover its origins and the significance behind its newest members. Atlantic Council’s Colleen Cottle joins host Lizzy Shackelford to explore the motivations, the dynamics at play, and its potential impact on the world stage. 

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New Technologies Transforming City Life: Dream or Reality?21 Sep 202300:29:12

Can smart cities truly deliver on their promises of innovation and sustainability? On Deep Dish, author and winner of the Pattis Family Foundation Global Cities Book Award, John Lorinc joins host Brian Hanson to navigate the intersection of urban planning technology and ethical concerns in his book Dream States: Smart Cities, Technology, and the Pursuit of Urban Utopias. 

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This episode is brought to you by UL Solutions. 

Balancing Religious Diversity and National Identity in France14 Sep 202300:22:02

The expulsion of Muslim schoolgirls for refusing to remove their abayas serves as a stark reminder of France's ongoing struggle to balance its historical commitment to laïcité with its growing religious and cultural diversity. The Council’s Ariel Schwartz joins host Brian Hanson to explore laïcité’s historical roots, modern challenges, and global implications in contemporary society.

From Likes to Violence: How Big Tech is Helping Fuel Extremism07 Sep 202300:30:16

Deep Dish delves into how the unchecked power of social platforms in the Metaverse, woven into the fabric of modern communication, is fueling conflicts, disinformation, terror, and hate. Experts Kristina Wilfore and Leah Kimathi confront the chilling reality of Big Tech's role in fueling extremism in Kenya, where profit often trumps content policing, and share what Kenyans are doing about it.

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From China to Mexico: Tracing the Deadly Fentanyl Trail31 Aug 202300:29:39

With 110,000 drug overdose deaths last year, including 70 percent from synthetic opioids, we examine how international factors have played a crucial role in the US drug epidemic. Vanda Felbab-Brown of Brookings Institution and Regina LaBelle of Georgetown University offer insights on the government's response, effective policy solutions, and the path to recovery.  

 

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Sahel in Crisis: Niger’s Coup and the Failure of Western Intervention24 Aug 202300:35:56

Niger's recent coup has reignited debates about democracy, stability, and Western influence. Join Kamissa Camara of the US Institute of Peace and Deep Dish hosts Lizzy Shackelford and Brian Hanson as they explore Niger's coup, its place in the Sahel's instability, and the urgent need to rethink policies in this complex region. 

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Lessons in Security and Diplomacy 25 Years After the US Embassy Bombings17 Aug 202300:30:19

Deep Dish revisits the haunting morning of August 7, 1998, when al-Qaeda struck US embassies in Kenya that claimed over 200 lives and left thousands wounded. Ambassador Prudence Bushnell, who was present during the attacks, and former foreign service officer Mietek Boduszyński, who served in Libya when US facilities in Benghazi were attacked, reflect on how the US government should balance diplomacy and danger, whether the right lessons were learned, and what challenge face US diplomats in today's risky world. 

 

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The Oppenheimer Effect: Reigniting Nuclear Awareness10 Aug 202300:40:16

Deep Dish explores the recently released 'Oppenheimer' film and journeys back to the Cold War era when nuclear weapons were etched into popular consciousness. Rachel Bronson and Avery Restrepo of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists explore how nuclear weapons have seemingly faded from public awareness. They draw parallels to today and suggest ways that Gen Z can shape a safer and more responsible future. 

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Population Paradox: Are Declining Birth Rates Good or Bad for the World?03 Aug 202300:30:22

As birth rates decline and life expectancies increase, some regions are now experiencing a net decrease in population, leaving us to question whether that’s good or bad for the world. Stephanie Feldstein of the Center for Biological Diversity and John Ibbitson, author of the Empty Planet unravel the layers of this population paradox and its implications on society, the global economy, and the environment.

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Will Politics in Taiwan Increase the Risk of Conflict with China?27 Jul 202300:37:30

As stakes rise and tensions mount between the United States and China, the future of Taiwan hangs in the balance. With a pivotal presidential election on the horizon, what are the implications for Taiwanese policy, its alignment with the US, and the risk of war with China? Sam Houston State University’s Dennis Weng and New Bloom Magazine’s Brian Hioe join Deep Dish to offer a glimpse into the uncertain future of the region.

Tune into last week's episode for part one of this conversation where Deep Dish focuses on the different positions in the US debate over policy toward Taiwan.

The Debate on US Strategy in Taiwan-China Relations20 Jul 202300:44:27

As tensions escalate between Taiwan and China, should Washington back Taiwan through increased militarily deterrence or prioritize reassurance and diplomacy with China? Quincy Institute’s Michael Swaine and the Council on Foreign Relations’ David Sacks debate the growing policymaker consensus for US military support to deter a Chinese attack, while considering dissenting views that prioritize political solutions for China-Taiwan unification from the US standpoint. 

Tune in next week for part two of this episode where Deep Dish focuses on Taiwan's internal politics around these issues and their views on how to best preserve peace in the China-Taiwan strait.

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From Stability to Prosperity: Understanding Costa Rica’s Success13 Jul 202300:28:54

What is the secret to Costa Rica's exceptional success as a politically stable and environmentally sustainable nation?  While other countries in Central America struggle with political upheaval, violence, corruption, and extreme poverty, Costa Rica has become a global example of success with robust institutions, visionary policies, and a thriving eco-tourism industry. The Atlantic Council’s María Fernanda Bozmoski joins Deep Dish to discuss the reasons for Costa Rica’s achievements, explore lessons for other countries, and unpack the challenges that lie ahead for this remarkable nation.

Lost Lives, Little Attention: The Overlooked Migrant Crisis06 Jul 202300:23:03

While the world closely followed the fate of five privileged men who went missing aboard a Titanic-bound submersible, a fishing boat crowded with migrants traveling from Libya sank in Greek waters. This upped the number of migrants who have died trying to reach Europe by sea this year to nearly 2,000. Award-winning journalist Sally Hayden joins Deep Dish to shed light on the underreported crisis of migrant treatment, the heartbreaking stories of those traveling on the world’s deadliest migration route, and the inadequate news coverage and resources dedicated to this humanitarian issue.

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Unraveling Haiti Two Years after Moïse’s Assassination29 Jun 202300:30:09

Haiti marks the two-year anniversary of President Jovenel Moïse's assassination. On Deep Dish, we unravel the intricate dynamics that make Haiti's path to stability so challenging. Haitian journalist Monique Clesca and the International Crisis Group’s Renata Segura offer their perspectives on the complexities of the situation and explore pathways on Haiti's struggle for a brighter future.

Understanding Uganda's Anti-LGBTQ Law22 Jun 202300:26:16

With Uganda's recent passage of an extreme anti-LGBTQ law, Deep Dish explores the external influences, particularly US evangelical groups, that have intensified discrimination in Uganda and beyond. Ugandan journalist Lydia Namubiru unravels the historical context and societal factors behind this pressing issue. And Minority Africa’s Caleb Okereke sheds light on the experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ communities in Uganda and elsewhere on the continent.

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Rethinking our Engagement with the Global South15 Jun 202300:25:02

Why is the relationship between the West and the Global South failing and what can be done? Stimson Center’s Aude Darnal challenges the dominant focus on great power competition and highlights why this approach fails to foster meaningful, mutually beneficial relations. Discover why redefining this lens is essential for the United States, the Global South, and the world.

Rethinking Conflict Resolution in Sudan08 Jun 202300:38:55

What role do international partners like the United States play in shaping Sudan’s transitional path forward? Deep Dish explores the need for a new approach to conflict resolution that prioritizes civilian interests, joined by Jacqueline Burns, former advisor to the US Special Envoy for Sudan and South Sudan, and Peter Biar Ajak of the Belfer Center. They question traditional methods and uncover alternative strategies for constructive international engagement to secure a peaceful future for Sudan.

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Making Cyberspace Safe for Democracy01 Jun 202300:45:45

Artificial intelligence raises increasingly grim concerns among experts. Are our digital spaces truly safe for democracy? On Deep Dish, the Alliance for Securing Democracy’s Laura Rosenberger and Stanford University’s Jacob Helberg discuss digital interference, misinformation, and data privacy within the lens of geopolitics. [This episode originally aired August 13, 2020]

 

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The Global Cost of Childhood Malnutrition25 May 202300:33:38

Nearly one in every four children worldwide is affected by malnutrition. Roger Thurow, senior fellow and author of The First 1,000 Days, joins Deep Dish to explore the impact of good nutrition for mothers and children. He provides ten-year updates on the communities in India, Uganda, and Guatemala featured in his book, explores the importance of good nutrition on growth and development, and considers the vital question: what might a child have accomplished for all of us were they not malnourished and stunted in their first 1,000 days?  

This episode is brought to you by the Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America.

 

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Netflix’s “The Diplomat”: Pop Culture Gives Diplomacy a Boost18 May 202300:33:13

Netflix’s hit show "The Diplomat" brings real-world diplomacy to the spotlight. On Deep Dish, Executive Producer of Madam Secretary David Grae and career diplomat Maryum Saifee examine the show’s portrayal of diplomats, the importance of sharing these stories in pop culture, and the significance of the State Department finally going to Hollywood.

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Why the Goals of the War Look Different in Kyiv11 May 202300:27:46

While the West focuses on Ukraine’s counteroffensive, the stakes look very different inside Kyiv. Fresh from a visit to the capitol city, Council President Ivo Daalder joins former Ukrainian diplomat Iuliia Osmolovska to share Ukrainians’ focus on the long term: integration with the West, consequences of the war, and what comes after.

The Continent: Changing the Game in African Media04 May 202300:29:11

Since its launch three years ago, The Continent has become the most widely distributed newspaper in Africa. Issued via WhatsApp, The Continent tells stories “by Africans, for Africans,” and reveals just how different African news looks when the people living it are the ones writing the stories. Editor-in-Chief Simon Allison joins us on Deep Dish to talk about shaping this new outlet, and Brian discusses what he learned during his month-long trip to Africa, including what US news consumers often don’t hear.

Can a State Dinner End South Korea and Japan’s Fight Over History?27 Apr 202300:34:36

President Biden hosted South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol at his second-ever state dinner as part of the US strategy to get the strained South Korea-Japan relationship back on track. On Deep Dish, US Institute of Peace’s Frank Aum and the Wilson Center’s Shihoko Goto explore the reasons for the recurring ruptures over history, why the US cares, and the implications for geopolitics in Asia.

Biden’s Human Rights Promises: Rhetoric or Real?20 Apr 202300:30:50

On Deep Dish, we explore whether the Biden administration has followed through on its promises to prioritize human rights in US foreign policy and whether recent events like the release of the annual human rights report and the Democracies Summit provide any hints about how effective they have been. Join experts Steven Feldstein and Sarah Yager as they evaluate the administration’s progress and unpack ways the United States can do better abroad. 

 

Reading List: 

2022 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, March 20, 2023 

Jimmy Carter was right about human rights, Elizabeth Shackelford, Chicago Tribune, March 9, 2023 

Wanted: Vladimir Putin for Crimes Against Children13 Apr 202300:41:11

The ICC has dubbed Vladimir Putin personally responsible for the abductions of children from Ukraine. While the world focuses on Putin’s prospects, Deep Dish dives into the underlying issue: accountability, justice, and protection of the most vulnerable victims of war. Experts Nathaniel Raymond and Kathryn Sikkink unpack the tragic reality of child abductions during times of conflict, how the indictments might affect these Ukrainian children, and whether this could truly deter child abductions in future war crimes. 

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Deep Dish Returns! Lessons on a Career Spent in Global Affairs06 Apr 202300:27:43

Deep Dish is back after a brief break with a new theme song and some exciting news: occasional host Lizzy Shackelford is joining as an official co-host. To celebrate, Brian and Lizzy talk to each other and give you a chance to get to know them more personally. From what led them to a career grappling with global affairs to their hobbies and interests, we're exploring it all. Tune in to meet the hosts who bring you Deep Dish each week and get ready for a few surprises along the way!

 

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What You Do to Your Women, You Do to Your Nation.30 Mar 202300:34:08

Around the world, authoritarianism is rising, and women’s rights are declining—and it’s not a coincidence that’s happening at the same time. On Deep Dish, we revisit a conversation with Valerie Hudson and Zoe Marks to explain how sexism undermines national security, why autocrats are afraid of women, and why progress on gender equality is essential for stability, democracy, and prosperity. [This episode originally aired on March 10, 2022] 

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Revisiting How China is Winning the Battle for Digital Sovereignty Using Your Data23 Mar 202300:31:06

Today, TikTok CEO Shou Chew testified before Congress in light of the Biden administration’s threat to ban the social media app over concerns that it poses a threat to national security. On Deep Dish, we’re revisiting our conversation with author Aynne Kokas who explains why China has been so effective at collecting and “trafficking” the data of citizens, and how this data could give them a geopolitical advantage. Plus, we hear from data privacy attorneys on the state of regulation protecting user data. 

[This episode originally aired: December 15, 2022] 

 

Related Content: 

Trafficking Data: How China Is Winning the Battle for Digital Sovereignty, Aynne Kokas, Oxford University Press, November 1, 2022

Opinion: Why the U.S. will probably never ban TikTok, Aynne Kokas, Los Angeles Times, March 22, 2023 

TikTok CEO Testifies at House Commerce Committee, C-SPAN3, March 23, 2023 

Revisiting AI, Disruption, and the Future of Spying16 Mar 202300:37:23

On Deep Dish, we’re revisiting our conversation about the world of espionage and the secrets of intelligence gathering with Amy Zegart, author of Spies, Lies, and Algorithms. As new technology continues to disrupt all aspects of our lives, Zegart explains how these innovations are changing espionage and why spy myths perpetuated by Hollywood often get in the way of understanding threats.

[This episode originally aired: March 24, 2022]

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