Best Shield Bash Podcasts (2025)

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Ep 13 - Big Bash Sixes & Shield Centuries: Inside Sam Heazlett's Batting Philosophy 1:48:42

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14d ago1:48:42

1:48:42

In this episode of The Cerebral Cricketer Podcast, we sit down with Sam Heazlett, a talented left-handed batsman who has represented Queensland in Sheffield Shield and One Day Cup cricket, starred for the Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League (BBL), and proudly earned an Australian ODI cap in 2017. Sam opens up about his journey through the ranks of…

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Critical Lines - The Geopolitics of Undersea Cables: Erin Murphy 42:29

6d ago42:29

42:29

Andrew Shapiro talks with CSIS researcher (and undersea cable enthusiast) Erin Murphy about the threats facing these critical transmission paths at the bottom of the world’s oceans. Erin explains why undersea cables are vital to military communications, financial systems, and healthcare—and how they’ve evolved into strategic targets. She also discu…

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Deterring Pyongyang: Syd Seiler 40:37

13d ago40:37

40:37

Michael speaks with Syd Seiler, former U.S. National Intelligence Officer for North Korea and one of the U.S. government’s most experienced Korea hands. Seiler unpacks the long arc of Kim Jong Un’s strategy, the roots of North Korea’s provocations, and why the regime sees nuclear weapons as essential to its survival. He also discusses the limits of…

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'World War I with Drones': Bradley Bowman 51:32

20d ago51:32

51:32

Michael Allen talks with Foundation for Defense of Democracies' Bradley Bowman, who attacks the myth that supporting Ukraine has weakened America's defenses for Taiwan. Bradley, who's senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power, details how the war in Ukraine has become a brutal "World War I with drones"-- an attrition battle wher…

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Ep 12 - Faith, Firepower & Fearless Cricket: How Stephan Myburgh Achieved The Impossible 54:02

25d ago54:02

54:02

In this episode of The Cerebral Cricketer, we sit down with Stephan Myburgh, the South African-born Dutch cricketer known for his fearless approach at the top of the order. From his iconic 17-ball fifty in the 2014 T20 World Cup to helping the Netherlands pull off giant-killing performances against cricketing powerhouses, Stephan shares the mindset…

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Shielding the Homeland: Vice Admiral James Syring 50:19

27d ago50:19

50:19

Jeremy Bash is joined by former Missile Defense Agency Director Vice Admiral (Ret.) James Syring, who discusses the evolving threats to U.S. air defense, including hypersonic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones. He explains the vulnerabilities of current systems, which were designed decades ago and now face threats posed by advanced arsenals. VAD…

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The Russian Time Bomb: Peter Rough 33:18

1M ago33:18

33:18

Peter Rough, Director of the Hudson Institute’s Center on Europe and Eurasia, joins Michael to discuss why time may be running out for Russia in its war on Ukraine. He argues that tighter international sanctions enforcement and increased U.S. weapons and intelligence support could begin to squeeze the Kremlin as early as late this year, as the econ…

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Beyond the Barrel: Dr. Karen Young 45:50

1M ago45:50

45:50

Michael talks with Dr. Karen Young, Senior Fellow at the Middle East Institute, about the potential economic ripple effects of the Israel-Iran conflict. Dr. Young explains the ‘decoupling’ of Middle Eastern conflict from global oil prices, the impact of U.S. fracking on oil supply, and the increasing efficiency of global oil usage—and why it all ma…

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Ep 11 - Curtis Campher: The Crisis Man of Irish Cricket 1:59:33

1M ago1:59:33

1:59:33

In this episode of The Cerebral Cricketer, we sit down with Curtis Campher, Ireland’s all-format all-rounder. From his early days playing backyard cricket in Johannesburg to delivering clutch performances for Ireland on the world stage, Curtis shares an unfiltered look into what fuels his game, both mentally and technically. We cover everything fro…

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Arrows and Quivers: Dr. Tom Karako 47:01

2M ago47:01

47:01

Michael talks with Dr. Tom Karako, Director of the Missile Defense Project at CSIS, about the high-stakes missile confrontation between Israel and Iran, recorded just before the recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Tom analyzes the role of ballistic missiles in the conflict, the capabilities of Israeli and US defenses, and the strategic…

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Special Episode: The Iranian Nuclear Gamble with Richard Nephew 59:29

2M ago59:29

59:29

Senior research scholar at Columbia University and former NSC Director for Iran Richard Nephew joins Michael for another special episode to analyze the recent US strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. Richard discusses President Trump's decision-making, the Iranian reaction, the assessed damage to the nuclear program versus potential hidden capabili…

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The 'Sledgehammer' to Global Trade: Kelly Ann Shaw 48:06

2M ago48:06

48:06

Michael talks with Kelly Ann Shaw, former Deputy Assistant to the President for International Economic Affairs, about President Trump’s 'sledgehammer' approach to international trade and tariffs. Kelly Ann, who also served as Trade Counsel to the House Ways and Means Committee, explains the current state of the global "trade war," the strategic de-…

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Special Episode: The Next Move in the Iran Crisis with Richard Nephew 1:03:39

2M ago1:03:39

1:03:39

In this special episode, Michael talks with Iran expert Richard Nephew, who warns of impending U.S. military strikes on Iran's deeply buried nuclear facilities—a task only the American military can achieve. The former NSC official casts doubt on Israel's regime change strategy, fearing it could backfire and lead to an even more hardline Iranian gov…

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Ep 10 - Jamaican Fire, Canadian Ice: Aaron Johnson’s Journey To International Cricket 2:04:08

2M ago2:04:08

2:04:08

We sit down with Aaron Johnson, the explosive Canadian opening batter with Jamaican roots, whose late start and relentless work ethic have turned him into one of the most feared T20 hitters in Associate cricket. From herding goats in rural Jamaica to smashing sixes on the international stage, Aaron shares his journey of grit, growth, and the power …

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The Iran Equation: Gen. Frank McKenzie 40:06

2M ago40:06

40:06

In this episode of NatSec Matters, we revisit Michael Allen's conversation 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 military actions, and the strategic fallout from the assassinat…

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An Unwinnable War: Mark Montgomery 42:57

2M ago42:57

42:57

Michael Allen welcomes back RADM (Ret.) Mark Montgomery to the podcast, where he explains why—even with a ceasefire—ending the war between Russia and Ukraine could be “impossible.” He discusses the recent shifts in military gains and losses on both sides, and what it could take to change the odds in favor of either Moscow or Kyiv.…

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Ep 9 – Will Bosisto's Revival Story: From U19 MVP to T20 Franchise Comeback Through Mental Mastery 2:48:17

2M ago2:48:17

2:48:17

In this episode of The Cerebral Cricketer, we sit down with Will Bosisto — Player of the Tournament at the 2012 U19 World Cup — for an unfiltered conversation about the mental blueprint behind his journey: from prodigious talent to rebuilding his game and reigniting his career through T20 franchise cricket. We explore: ✅ The pressures of early succ…

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The Long War: Glenn Corn 55:19

3M ago55:19

55:19

Michael Allen talks with former CIA executive and US foreign policy expert Glenn Corn, a regular guest of NatSec Matters. Glenn shares insights from his recent trip to Ukraine and the outlook for US support in its fight against Russia. He also highlights smart moves by President Trump in countering the Kremlin and offers reasons for optimism for Uk…

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Palaces & Policy Shifts: Jeffrey Feltman 56:20

3M ago56:20

56:20

Michael Allen talks with former senior State Department official Jeffrey Feltman about President Trump's "new approach" to the Middle East following his recent trip to the Gulf. Jeffrey analyzes the President's focus on major investment deals, the evolving US positioning on Iran's nuclear program, the surprising U-turn on Syria, and how Mr. Trump's…

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Ep 8 - In Zimbabwe. No Helmet. No Fear: Solomon Mire's Fearless Journey to International Cricket 2:42:33

3M ago2:42:33

2:42:33

From street cricket to facing the world’s best bowlers, Solomon Mire’s journey to international cricket is nothing short of extraordinary. In this jam-packed episode, Solomon opens up about his early days in Zimbabwe, training without gear, and the raw, fearless environment that shaped his explosive batting style. He shares the behind-the-scenes st…

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Beijing's Long Game: Mike Studeman 46:57

3M ago46:57

46:57

Michael Allen talks with retired rear admiral and China expert Mike Studeman about the geopolitical implications of President Trump's trade negotiations with China and US policy to counter Chinese influence and threats. Mike, former Commander of the Office of Naval Intelligence, discusses how China might exploit an "America First" orientation, the …

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The Biotech Frontline: Dawn Meyerriecks 43:33

3M ago43:33

43:33

Jeremy Bash explores the biotech battleground with former CIA science and technology chief Dawn Meyerriecks. Dawn, a key voice on the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, discusses the urgent need for US leadership to address critical vulnerabilities in the country's bio-industrial base. Dawn also makes a case for why powerful go…

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Ep 7 - From Winning U19 World Cups to Man of the Match in Big Bash Finals: Adam Crosthwaite's Story 1:44:27

3M ago1:44:27

1:44:27

From winning the U19 World Cup alongside future stars like Shaun Marsh and Cameron White, to playing in front of 50,000 fans in Dhaka at 19 years of age, to delivering a mic’d-up Man of the Match performance in a Big Bash Final —Adam Crosthwaite’s career is a rollercoaster of unforgettable moments. You’ll Hear About: 🏆 Teenage Triumphs – Winning th…

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Statecraft 2.0: Dennis Ross 1:03:18

3M ago1:03:18

1:03:18

Andrew Shapiro talks with former US Ambassador Dennis Ross, who argues that the country's foreign policy needs a reboot. Amb. Ross explains the principles of "Statecraft 2.0" – why the US must adapt its leadership for a challenging multipolar world, navigating the global influence and interests of China and Russia.…

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The Arctic Power Play: Iris Ferguson 43:43

4M ago43:43

43:43

Andrew Shapiro talks with former Pentagon Arctic policy head Iris Ferguson about how melting sea ice is ushering in a new era of great power competition, ending decades of 'Arctic exceptionalism.' Iris, the DOD's first Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Arctic, discusses Russia's interests, China’s pursuit of influence as a 'near-Arctic state,' and…

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Ep 6 - Queensland's Bryce Street on the Psychology Behind Opening the Batting in Domestic Cricket 1:21:23

4M ago1:21:23

1:21:23

We sit down with Queensland's Bryce Street, to dive deep into the mental side of cricket. From overcoming nerves and self-doubt to scoring record-breaking innings (including his epic 345 off 434 balls), Bryce shares invaluable insights on what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of the game. From managing negative self-talk to embracing simpl…

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The 'Tariff Trap': Craig Singleton 42:03

4M ago42:03

42:03

Michael Allen talks with Craig Singleton, Senior Director for China at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, about whether President Trump is locked into an inescapable trade war with China's Xi Jinping. Craig discusses the high-stakes gamble each leader is making, convinced the other will fold first. They explore whether 'strategic decoupling…

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The Turkish Tightrope: Glenn Corn 50:00

4M ago50:00

50:00

Michael Allen talks with former CIA senior executive Glenn Corn about whether Turkey is a US ally or wildcard. They discuss how Turkey is navigating the conflicts in Syria and Ukraine while managing relationships with both Washington and Moscow. Glenn also explores the fall of Bashar al-Assad, the future of the Kurds, the decline of Hezbollah, and …

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Ep 5 - Ranked Top 50 In The World - Gus Sloan's Secret to Dominating Last Man Stands & VR Cricket 1:41:18

4M ago1:41:18

1:41:18

In this episode, we chat to Gus Sloan, a superstar in the Global T20 Tournament "Last Man Stands (LMS)" (youngest anointed 'Legend' in LMS history!), to dive deep into his incredible journey, from playing rugby league as a teenager to becoming one of the most prolific players in LMS and Virtual Reality iB Cricket history. With a batting average of …

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Ep 4 - Lessons from Shariz Ahmad - My Reflections & Key Takeaways! 24:08

4M ago24:08

24:08

I reflect on my conversation with Dutch international cricketer Shariz Ahmad and break down the mindset gems and strategic insights he shared. We dive into: ✅ How Shariz developed an optimistic mindset from a young age ✅ The story of scouts discovering him at age 11 and his positive outlook on the pressure ✅ Being fast-tracked into the Netherlands …

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Trump, Ukraine, and the Ceasefire Gamble: Peter Rough 45:08

4M ago45:08

45:08

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 …

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Economic Warfare: Eddie Fishman 45:28

5M ago45:28

45:28

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, Ch…

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Ep 3 – The Next Rashid Khan? Dutch Sensation Shariz Ahmad on His T20 World Cup Journey & More! 2:49:49

5M ago2:49:49

2:49:49

In this episode, we sit down with Shariz Ahmad, the Netherlands' rising cricket sensation, as he shares his incredible journey from backyard cricket to the international stage. Discover how he honed his leg-spin skills, overcame challenges, and made his mark in the T20 World Cup. Plus, get exclusive insights into his training routines, mental prepa…

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Ep 2 - Lessons from Musa Nadeem Ahmad - My Reflection & Key Takeaways! 23:19

5M ago23:19

23:19

In this special episode of The Cerebral Cricketer, I reflect on my fascinating conversation with Musa Nadeem Ahmad, a rising star in Netherlands cricket! 🏏 🌟 Key Takeaways From My Chat With Musa Nadeem Ahmad: ✅ His journey through Dutch cricket & rise as an international cricketer ✅ The mental side of batting – staying fearless ✅ What it takes to p…

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Guardians of the Sky: Frank Kendall 40:29

5M ago40:29

40:29

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 Spa…

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The Estonian Watchmen: Arnold Sinisalu 45:38

5M ago45:38

45:38

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 acros…

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Ep 1 - From Football Dreams to Facing 150kph: Musa Nadeem Ahmed's Journey to International Cricket 1:45:00

5M ago1:45:00

1:45:00

We talk to Musa Nadeem Ahmed, the dynamic left-handed batsman from the Netherlands national cricket team. Musa shares his incredible journey from dreaming of becoming a professional footballer to becoming one of the most exciting talents in Dutch cricket. From his early days playing backyard cricket with his brother to facing 150kph deliveries from…

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Transatlantic Tensions: Nico Lange 44:51

5M ago44:51

44:51

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 offer…

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The Launch of The Cerebral Cricketer Podcast! 41:47

5M ago41:47

41:47

🎙 Welcome to The Cerebral Cricketer Podcast! This is Episode Zero - the foundation of what’s to come. In this episode, I break down the vision behind The Cerebral Cricketer podcast and why I've started this podcast. 🧠 What to Expect: Why the mental game is just as important as physical skill. The psychology behind peak performance in cricket. How I…

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Russia's 'Shadow War': Bojan Pancevski 49:35

6M ago49:35

49:35

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 inv…

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International Headwinds: Mark Montgomery 55:18

6M ago55:18

55:18

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. H…

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Geopolitics in Transition: Jon Finer 53:33

6M ago53:33

53:33

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.By Beacon Global Strategies, LLC

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Inside Israeli Military Intel: Tamir Hayman 53:02

6M ago53:02

53:02

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 gath…

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Strategic Frontlines: Gen. Frank McKenzie 41:10

7M ago41:10

41:10

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…

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'Flip the Script' 58:18

7M ago58:18

58:18

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.By Beacon Global Strategies, LLC

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Inside the President's Daily Brief 41:32

7M ago41:32

41:32

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.…

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Umasking the CIA: Jonna Mendez 46:32

8M ago46:32

46:32

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 evaluat…

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The Trump-China Dilemma: Chris Johnson 40:09

8M ago40:09

40:09

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 …

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Inside a Dangerous Alliance: Sara Harmouch 41:56

8M ago41:56

41:56

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.By Beacon Global Strategies, LLC

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The Antarctic 'Chessboard': Bill Muntean 37:00

8M ago37:00

37:00

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 co…