The Cognitive Crucible is a forum that presents different perspectives and emerging thought leadership related to the information environment. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and do not necessarily reflect the views of or endorsement by the Information Professionals Association.

During this episode, David Cook discusses his recent article: When Cell Phones Kill: Digital Discipline and the Future of SOF Obscurity. In addition to digital discipline in a national security context, David discusses cyber and AI threats and practical mitigation practices that private sector companies and citizens should be aware of.

Recording Date: 19 Aug 2025

Resources:

• Cognitive Crucible Podcast Episodes Mentioned
  • #222 JD Maddox on Emerging IO Opportunities
• When Cell Phones Kill: Digital Discipline and the Future of SOF Obscurity by Dave Cook

Link to full show notes and resources

Guest Bio: David Cook spent a decade in the US Army in both conventional and special operations units focused on the Middle East. After his time in the Army, David joined Congressman Darrell Issa as a fellow then National Security Advisor who handled covered his Foreign Affairs and Judiciary portfolio. David co-authored several strategic documents at Army OSINT Office and the Defense Intelligence Agency along with contributing to the most recent OSINT Strategy released by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Most recently, David led the go-to-market efforts of a leading OSINT software company.

About: The Information Professionals Association (IPA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring the role of information activities, such as influence and cognitive security, within the national security sector and helping to bridge the divide between operations and research. Its goal is to increase interdisciplinary collaboration between scholars and practitioners and policymakers with an interest in this domain.

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