American Security Project

On this week’s episode of ‘What’s Next?’ Maggie Feldman-Piltch sits down with Ambassador Robert Gallucci to talk about the state of nuclear weapons proliferation and US nuclear deterrence and defense capabilities. The conversation includes the challenges of “suspending your disbelief” during nuclear negotiations, and what tools the United States uses to learn about the capabilities of other countries. Ambassador Gallucci also gives his input on China, Taiwan, North Korea, and Russia.

Ambassador Robert Gallucci served as Dean of the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University for 13 years until he left in July 2009, to become president of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.  He was appointed dean in 1996, after 21 years of distinguished service in a variety of government positions, focusing on international security.  As Ambassador-at-Large and Special Envoy for the U.S. Department of State, he dealt with the threats posed by the proliferation of ballistic missiles and weapons of mass destruction. He was chief U.S. negotiator during the North Korean nuclear crisis of 1994, and served as Assistant Secretary of State for Political Military Affairs and as Deputy Executive Chairman of the UN Special Commission overseeing the disarmament of Iraq following the first Gulf War. Ambassador Gallucci earned his Bachelor’s degree at the State University of New York at Stony Brook and his Master’s and Doctoral degrees at Brandeis University.

 

“What’s Next?” is American Security Project’s weekly, non-partisan podcast series featuring interviews with national security leaders and critical issue experts. Each episode runs about 30 minutes- making it the perfect addition to your DC commute.

Hosted by Maggie Feldman-Piltch and produced by Matthew Wallin, the conversations go beyond the dinner party commentary and offer guests the opportunity to discuss their vision for security in the 21st century, the strategy that vision requires, and what it means for America going forward- in less time than it takes you to get to work. With topics ranging from geo-economics to nuclear security, cultural diplomacy to energy security and asymmetric operations, “What’s Next?” is one of the many ways ASP works to raise the American public’s understanding of complex security issues we face.

 

“What’s Next?” is available through Itunes.

On this week’s episode of “What’s Next?” Maggie Feldman-Piltch interviews Matthew Wallin, ASP Fellow for Public Diplomacy, to discuss public diplomacy strategy and priorities for the next administration.

For Matthew, the most pressing challenge facing the next administration will be appointing the Undersecretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs at the Department of State. Although currently occupied, this position is frequently unfilled. If the incoming administration fails to appoint a new Undersecretary, there will be a lack of U.S. global engagement that will have negative consequences on U.S. positions around the globe.

Maggie and Matthew’s conversation highlights the impact of online public diplomacy on undermining violent extremism and the need to translate online initiatives into action. They also touch on how the new administration may approach Russia’s public diplomacy efforts. Matthew outlines how Russia’s laws limit the ability for the U.S. to employ traditional public diplomacy efforts, and how this negatively impacts U.S.-Russian relations and Russia’s power in the Baltic states. For both of these issues, the new leadership, or lack thereof, and the approach he or she takes to these contemporary challenges will set the tone for how the U.S. is perceived around the globe. And whether or not our efforts are effective will have a direct impact on the geopolitical balance of global powers.

About “What’s Next?”

“What’s Next?” is American Security Project’s weekly, non-partisan podcast series featuring interviews with national security leaders and critical issue experts. Each episode runs about 20 minutes- making it the perfect addition to your DC commute.

Hosted by Maggie Feldman-Piltch and produced by Matthew Wallin, the conversations go beyond the dinner party commentary and offer guests the opportunity to discuss their vision for security in the 21st century, the strategy that vision requires, and what it means for America going forward- in less time than it takes you to get to work. With topics ranging from geo-economics to nuclear security, cultural diplomacy to energy security and asymmetric operations, “What’s Next?” is one of the many ways ASP works to raise the American public’s understanding of complex security issues we face.

On this week’s episode of “What’s Next?” Maggie Feldman-Piltch interviews Mark Kustra, ASP Adjunct Fellow, to discuss the multifaceted aspects of stability operations. Maggie and Mark examine how stability ops focuses on overseas endeavors, that range from disaster relief, humanitarian assistance, and combat related ops in contentious regions, such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

Mark highlights the complications of having the military as a dominant element in combat-related stability operations overseas, as the military’s expertise does not always fall in the realm of post-war governance and development.

They further discuss how humanitarian and disaster relief are the easiest to execute, as there are authorities, such as USAID, with clearly defined roles and objectives.

Lastly, Mark stresses the importance of working with and advising foreign governments and their FEMA equivalents in order for them to work independently in the future.

Speaker Bios

Mark Kustra is an ASP Adjunct Fellow and a former United States Marine Officer with over 23 years of operational experience serving in positions from the tactical to the strategic levels of Defense. Throughout his life, to include his childhood and career, he has lived and worked in Asia for over 17 years.

Most recently he worked as a Strategic Analyst in the Marine Corps’ Strategic Initiatives Group where he looked at a range of issues related to future trends and threats to global stability and requirements to meet them. As a member of the Afghanistan Pakistan Hands Program he served as a governance and development advisor in Marjah District, Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

About “What’s Next?”

“What’s Next?” is American Security Project’s weekly, non-partisan podcast series featuring interviews with national security leaders and critical issue experts. Each episode runs about 20 minutes- making it the perfect addition to your DC commute.

Hosted by Maggie Feldman-Piltch and produced by Matthew Wallin, the conversations go beyond the dinner party commentary and offer guests the opportunity to discuss their vision for security in the 21st century, the strategy that vision requires, and what it means for America going forward- in less time than it takes you to get to work. With topics ranging from geo-economics to nuclear security, cultural diplomacy to energy security and asymmetric operations, “What’s Next?” is one of the many ways ASP works to raise the American public’s understanding of complex security issues we face.

On this week’s episode of “What’s Next?” Maggie Feldman-Piltch interviews Xander Vagg, ASP Adjunct Fellow and State Department Public Affairs Officer, to discuss the power of public diplomacy.  Xander’s current work with the State Department centers around the U.S. Diplomacy Center, a museum scheduled to open in 2018 focused on educating the public on the role of diplomats and the far reaching effect of their efforts.

Maggie and Xander’s conversation highlights the interconnected nature of diplomacy and national security.  Diplomatic efforts are a reflection of soft power, and often result in treaties, agreements, and improved international relations. These outcomes are often accompanied by heightened cooperation in other fronts, such as military cooperation, that are more commonly associated with national security.

Bringing in contemporary issues such as TPP, the Iran Deal, and the refugee crisis, Maggie and Xander weave through the impact diplomats have, or can have, on lasting change. While this work is not often recognized publicly, it is critical. When diplomacy fails, national security threats are harder for countries to navigate.

Speaker Bios

Xander Vagg is a Presidential Management Fellow and Foreign Affairs Officer with the U.S. Department of State.  He previously worked as a national security and defense consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton.

Xander’s work has been published or cited in The Boston Globe, The Diplomat, Inter Press News Services, The Jakarta Post, The Hill, and AOL Energy. He has also contributed to academic works published through Georgetown University on the US Foreign Service and post-conflict resolution.

About “What’s Next?”

“What’s Next?” is American Security Project’s weekly, non-partisan podcast series featuring interviews with national security leaders and critical issue experts. Each episode runs about 20 minutes- making it the perfect addition to your DC commute.

Hosted by Maggie Feldman-Piltch and produced by Matthew Wallin, the conversations go beyond the dinner party commentary and offer guests the opportunity to discuss their vision for security in the 21st century, the strategy that vision requires, and what it means for America going forward- in less time than it takes you to get to work. With topics ranging from geo-economics to nuclear security, cultural diplomacy to energy security and asymmetric operations, “What’s Next?” is one of the many ways ASP works to raise the American public’s understanding of complex security issues we face.

On this week’s episode of “What’s Next?” Matthew Wallin is joined by Adin Dobkin, Communications Director at The Military Writers Guild and Adjunct Fellow of ASP. This episode focuses on space and national security and how it pertains to our overall national security strategy. They further cover topics on the capabilities of space-based weaponry and the potential to remove hostile satellites from orbit, symmetric warfare between superpowers in space, and asymmetric capabilities against terror groups. Adin and Matthew further discuss how to effectively curb the militarization of space through civilian efforts.

Speaker Bios

Adin Dobkin is a national security and defense technology analyst with a with a background in communications and government affairs. He currently splits his time between Capitol Hill and acting as the Communications Director of the Military Writers Guild, a coalition of military officers, DOD civilians, analysts, and writers dedicated towards the field of arms.

About “What’s Next?”

“What’s Next?” is American Security Project’s weekly, non-partisan podcast series featuring interviews with national security leaders and critical issue experts. Each episode runs about 30 minutes- making it the perfect addition to your DC commute.

Hosted by Maggie Feldman-Piltch and produced by Matthew Wallin, the conversations go beyond the dinner party commentary and offer guests the opportunity to discuss their vision for security in the 21st century, the strategy that vision requires, and what it means for America going forward- in less time than it takes you to get to work. With topics ranging from geo-economics to nuclear security, cultural diplomacy to energy security and asymmetric operations, “What’s Next?” is one of the many ways ASP works to raise the American public’s understanding of complex security issues we face

On this week’s episode of “What’s Next?’ Maggie Feldman-Piltch is joined by Bella Ling, Head of Communications for Airbnb, Greater China. This episode focuses on the ways private sector partners and private sector activity can promote national security.  Bella and Maggie’s conversation exposes the interesting role Airbnb plays in public diplomacy, as the genuine experiences travelers get using Airbnb work to break down cultural and generational barriers. These effects are far reaching, and Maggie and Bella touch on the recent efforts by Airbnb to support Gilman Scholars, and draw connections between security cooperation and the unique form of public diplomacy that Airbnb promotes.

Speaker Bios

Bella Ling is the Head of Communications for Airbnb’s operations in Greater China. Airbnb, a private company, creates a digital marketplace for individuals to find local accommodation in over 34,000 cities and 191 countries around the globe.  Ling’s career in private sector communication spans more than ten years, including key positions at United Technologies, SAP, Edelman, the GSA, Genencor International.  Her skills range from media and stakeholder relations to crisis management and corporate branding.

 

About “What’s Next?”

“What’s Next?” is American Security Project’s weekly, non-partisan podcast series featuring interviews with national security leaders and critical issue experts. Each episode runs about 30 minutes- making it the perfect addition to your DC commute.

Hosted by Maggie Feldman-Piltch and produced by Matthew Wallin, the conversations go beyond the dinner party commentary and offer guests the opportunity to discuss their vision for security in the 21st century, the strategy that vision requires, and what it means for America going forward- in less time than it takes you to get to work. With topics ranging from geo-economics to nuclear security, cultural diplomacy to energy security and asymmetric operations, “What’s Next?” is one of the many ways ASP works to raise the American public’s understanding of complex security issues we face

On this week’s episode of “What’s Next?’ Maggie Feldman-Piltch is joined by Gregg Jones, CEO of Strategic Applications, a global crisis management company. This episode focuses on the post – 9/11 definition of crisis management, and how its evolved to deal with multifaceted threats. They cover topics ranging from the nature of a high risk, high reward crisis, the appropriate reaction to manage a crisis, and if governments or organizations can be readily prepared to handle any situation. Greg and Maggie also discuss the benefits of having your organization and knowledge of the facts be presented in a regular manner.

Speaker Bios

Gregg Jones is the CEO of Strategic Applications, a global crisis management company. His clients include corporations, public and private institutions, and government departments. He also serves as an adjunct with the RAND Corporation, and teaches a course that he developed in crisis management decision–making at Georgetown University. He has been a soldier, an information technology executive, an NGO, an entrepreneur, and a US government official.

About “What’s Next?”

“What’s Next?” is American Security Project’s weekly, non-partisan podcast series featuring interviews with national security leaders and critical issue experts. Each episode runs about 30 minutes- making it the perfect addition to your DC commute.

Hosted by Maggie Feldman-Piltch and produced by Matthew Wallin, the conversations go beyond the dinner party commentary and offer guests the opportunity to discuss their vision for security in the 21st century, the strategy that vision requires, and what it means for America going forward- in less time than it takes you to get to work. With topics ranging from geo-economics to nuclear security, cultural diplomacy to energy security and asymmetric operations, “What’s Next?” is one of the many ways ASP works to raise the American public’s understanding of complex security issues we face

On this week’s episode of “What’s Next?” Maggie Feldman-Piltch interviews ASP Chairperson Gov. Christine Todd Whitman, former Governor of New Jersey and EPA Administrator. Well known as a leading Republican voice on climate and energy security, Gov. Whitman talks about how technology can play a role in turning challenges into opportunities.

The conversation also includes a discussion of the role of nuclear power in the United States and around the world, and the true risks it does or doesn’t pose. Governor Whitman also advocates for the use of US nuclear technology over that of China and Russia as a matter of national security.

Speaker Bios

Governor Whitman served as the 51st  and first female Governor of New Jersey and was a member of President George W. Bush’s cabinet as Administrator of the EPA. Currently she is the President of The Whitman Strategy Group (WSG), a consulting firm that specializes in energy and environmental issues. WSG offers a comprehensive set of solutions to problems facing businesses, organizations, and governments; they have been at the forefront of helping leading companies find innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

As Governor, Christie Whitman earned praise from both Republicans and Democrats for her commitment to preserve a record amount of New Jersey land as permanent green space. She was also recognized by the Natural Resources Defense Council as having instituted the most comprehensive beach monitoring system in the nation. As EPA Administrator, she promoted common-sense environmental improvements such as watershed-based water protection policies. She championed regulations requiring non-road diesel engines to reduce sulfur emissions by more than 95 percent. Under her tenure, the Agency established the first federal program to promote redevelopment and reuse of “brownfields”, that is, previously contaminated industrial sites.

About “What’s Next?”

“What’s Next?” is American Security Project’s weekly, non-partisan podcast series featuring interviews with national security leaders and critical issue experts. Each episode runs about 20 minutes- making it the perfect addition to your DC commute.

Hosted by Maggie Feldman-Piltch and produced by Matthew Wallin, the conversations go beyond the dinner party commentary and offer guests the opportunity to discuss their vision for security in the 21st century, the strategy that vision requires, and what it means for America going forward- in less time than it takes you to get to work. With topics ranging from geo-economics to nuclear security, cultural diplomacy to energy security and asymmetric operations, “What’s Next?” is one of the many ways ASP works to raise the American public’s understanding of complex security issues we face.

On this week’s episode of “What’s Next?” Maggie Feldman-Piltch is joined by Nathan Gilliland, CEO of General Fusion. The episode focuses the role nuclear energy can and should play in global energy security. Nathan and Maggie discuss how nuclear fusion is different from nuclear fision, and why commercialized fusion is less science fiction than we think. The conversation also includes an overview of the private fusion industry, partnerships with national labs, and what makes General Fusion’s technology different.

General Fusion is a member of American Security Project’s Business Council on American Security and Chair of the Fusion Advisory Committee. Its work has recently been the focus of a cover story in TIME magazine.

Speaker Bios

 

Nathan Gilliland is CEO of General Fusion, a leader in the commercialization of fusion energy. General Fusion, located in Vancouver, is on the pathway to making economic fusion power a reality. Previously, he was President and co-founder of Harvest Power, a renewable energy company that turns organic waste into natural gas and electricity. Prior to Harvest Power, Nathan was an EVP at Bain Capital for 8 years, focusing on both leveraged buyouts, equity and debt investments through 2008. He was also founder of internet start-up MyCounsel.com from 1999-2002, and was VP of Strategy for a Bain Capital portfolio company, Nutraceutical.

About “What’s Next?”

“What’s Next?” is American Security Project’s weekly, non-partisan podcast series featuring interviews with national security leaders and critical issue experts. Each episode runs about 30 minutes- making it the perfect addition to your DC commute.

Hosted by Maggie Feldman-Piltch and produced by Matthew Wallin, the conversations go beyond the dinner party commentary and offer guests the opportunity to discuss their vision for security in the 21st century, the strategy that vision requires, and what it means for America going forward- in less time than it takes you to get to work. With topics ranging from geo-economics to nuclear security, cultural diplomacy to energy security and asymmetric operations, “What’s Next?” is one of the many ways ASP works to raise the American public’s understanding of complex security issues we face.

On this week’s episode of “What’s Next?” Maggie Feldman-Piltch interviews ASP Director of Studies Andrew Holland about the climate-security nexus. Holland also discusses his recent piece on Preventing Climate Wars, originally published in Scientific American. Prior to joining ASP, Holland worked as manager of the Transatlantic Dialogue on Climate Change and Security for the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). He also spent several years as LA on energy, climate, and environment to then Senator Chuck Hagel. Hagel is a Board Member of ASP.

Speaker Bios

 

Andrew Holland is the Director of Studies of American Security Project. Holland is an expert on energy, climate change, and infrastructure policy. He has worked at the center of debates about how to achieve sustainable energy security and how to effectively address climate change for the last decade. He served as Legislative Assistant on Energy, Environment, and Infrastructure for United States Senator Chuck Hagel of Nebraska for three years from 2006 through 2008.  He worked in the US House of Representatives for the House Ways and Means Committee and the Office of Congresswoman Roukema. Prior to ASP, he was the manager of the Transatlantic Dialogue on Climate Change and Security for the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS).

About “What’s Next?”

“What’s Next?” is American Security Project’s weekly, non-partisan podcast series featuring interviews with national security leaders and critical issue experts. Each episode runs about 30 minutes- making it the perfect addition to your DC commute.

Hosted by Maggie Feldman-Piltch and produced by Matthew Wallin, the conversations go beyond the dinner party commentary and offer guests the opportunity to discuss their vision for security in the 21st century, the strategy that vision requires, and what it means for America going forward- in less time than it takes you to get to work. With topics ranging from geo-economics to nuclear security, cultural diplomacy to energy security and asymmetric operations, “What’s Next?” is one of the many ways ASP works to raise the American public’s understanding of complex security issues we face.