In this special episode of Code and Country, we bring together insights from some of the world’s foremost experts in cybersecurity, intelligence, law, and defense.  

Built around the theme of geopolitics and digital conflict, this compilation traces how nation-state tensions, ransomware groups, and AI threats are converging to reshape the cyber battlefield. Civilian infrastructure is now a target. Compliance is no longer enough. The frontline has shifted from borders to networks.  

Some of the world’s foremost cyber experts from the RCMP, NSA, NATO, and the private sector reveal what it takes to stay ahead of persistent, coordinated attacks. The episode covers real-time disruption campaigns, threat attribution, legal blind spots, and the rising pressure on CISOs and IT leaders to build true resilience.  

Whether you’re defending critical infrastructure or leading cyber strategy in a global enterprise, this is a sharp, tactical briefing for those operating at the intersection of cybersecurity and geopolitics. Listen now to understand the new frontline.

Nation-states don’t steal data, they wage war.

In this episode of Code and Country, former US Intelligence Community CIO, CISO at Bank of America, and Chief Security Officer at Bridgewater Associates, Patrick Gorman exposes how cyber warfare threatens North America’s federal systems, higher education, BFSI, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors.

Gorman reveals:

• How nation-state intent flips overnight, leaving CISOs and IT leaders scrambling
• Why compliance frameworks fail to defend against ransomware, fraud, and insider threats
• How fragmented cyber defenses open the door to influence operations and disinformation campaigns

If you defend federal agencies, university networks, financial systems, hospitals, or supply chains, this episode delivers the preventative cybersecurity strategies you need.

Listen now and fortify your critical infrastructure before the next attack hits.

What does it take to defend 32 nations across five domains in an era of AI, quantum, and nation-state threats? 

In this episode of Code and Country, we sit down with NATO’s first-ever CIO and CISO, Manfred Boudreaux-Dehmer, for an inside look at the alliance’s approach to cybersecurity, digital transformation, and geopolitical defense.  

We explore why NATO consensus creates stronger decisions, how multi-domain operations integrate land, sea, air, cyber, and space defense, and what cyber leaders can learn from NATO’s approach to AI-powered protection and zero trust architecture. 

Manfred shares how Russia, China, and North Korea use disinformation, stealth, and ransomware to pursue their national agendas. He also explains how Q-Day is coming and what leaders must do now to prepare for post-quantum cryptography. 

If you are thinking about cyber threats at a nation-state scale, emerging quantum risks, or the impact of AI on defense strategies, this conversation will keep you ahead of the curve.  

Listen to learn how NATO is modernizing cyber defense in support of democratic institutions.  

When a ransomware attack hits, the headlines focus on the ransom. But what happens after the payment clears?

In this episode of Code and Country, we bring in Partner and Data Breach Coach Brent Arnold of Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP to uncover the truth about data breach response, the limits of cyber insurance, and the legal frontlines of cybersecurity litigation.

We take you inside why even “successful” ransomware payments often fail to recover your data, how insurers are rewriting the rules on cybersecurity compliance and policy exclusions, what CISOs need to know about the supply chain risk, class action defense, and recoup litigation.

Brent also shares his firsthand experience navigating Web3 cybersecurity, data protection in crisis, and the realities of incident response at scale.

Listen in and prepare your team to confront the real costs of cyber warfare—before you’re the next target.

In this episode of Code and Country, former CSIS and CBSA intelligence expert Neil Bisson explores the rising threats facing Canada and its allies. Cyber attacks, geopolitical tension, and cross-border crime are converging to reshape Canada’s security landscape.

Cyber and physical threats are no longer separate. Nation-state actors and cybercriminals are launching digital attacks that disrupt infrastructure, communications, and even elections. Intelligence sharing is also shifting as the United States adjusts its global strategy. Canada and its Five Eyes partners are being forced to rethink how they collaborate and respond.

At the border, Canada is dealing with a surge in illegal firearms entering from the south, while fentanyl remains a major concern. Economic pressure, disinformation, and trade tactics are quietly influencing Canadian sovereignty in ways many have not yet recognized.

AI-generated propaganda and deepfakes are already working to manipulate public opinion. This is a critical moment for Canada. Tune in to hear Neil Bisson’s expert perspective on what comes next.

Canada’s next election is already under attack—and most voters don’t even know it

Foreign adversaries are not waiting for ballots to be cast before interfering in Canada’s 2025 federal election. The fight isn’t happening at polling stations—it’s happening online, in misinformation campaigns, and through AI-driven influence operations.

In this episode of Code and Country, former CSIS Director Richard Fadden exposes how foreign actors, including China, are manipulating public perception long before election day. Disinformation is more than a nuisance—it’s a weapon. Deepfakes, AI-generated propaganda, and cyber warfare tactics are being deployed to destabilize democracy right now.

The warning signs are clear. The question is: Will Canada take action before it’s too late?

This episode is essential listening for anyone who cares about the integrity of our democracy. Listen now, subscribe, and stay informed. 

The fight for truth starts here.

Ep. 6: Code and Country: The Security Agency You’ve Never Heard Of 

In this episode of Code and Country, we dive into the high-stakes world of cybersecurity, national security, and geopolitical threats with former Chief of Communications Security Establishment (CSE), Canada’s top cyber intelligence agency, Shelly Bruce. With more than 30 years at CSE, Bruce drove critical efforts in signals intelligence, cyber defense, and offensive cyber operations. She also led the creation of the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security in 2018. 

Bruce shares insider stories on state-sponsored cyber threats like Volt Typhoon, lessons from Stuxnet, and the evolving cyber battlefield. She offers hard-won insights into how nations defend against cyber espionage and attacks targeting critical infrastructure. We also explore quantum computing risks, AI-powered cybercrime, and what businesses can do today to protect their systems. 

If you’re in cybersecurity, national defense, or simply fascinated by the digital frontlines shaping global power, this episode is a must-listen. 

Join us on Code and Country as we delve into the high-stakes world of cybersecurity with one of Canada’s top experts, Sami Khoury.

Currently serving as the Senior Official for Cyber Security for the Government of Canada, Sami has a storied career spanning over three decades at the forefront of national and international cyber defense. From his early days as an engineer to leading the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, Sami’s journey is a testament to the critical role of cybersecurity in safeguarding a nation’s secrets and infrastructure.

This episode offers a rare glimpse into the life of a cybersecurity leader who shapes the strategies defending against some of the most sophisticated digital threats facing countries today. Explore the evolving cybersecurity landscape through Sami’s expert lens, as he discusses how ransomware, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing are reshaping the future of national security.

Learn about Canada’s response to global cyber threats, the strategic importance of international coalitions against ransomware, and the pivotal role of public-private partnerships in advancing cybersecurity measures. With insights into policy-making, incident response, and the development of resilient digital ecosystems, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, security, and governance. Tune in to discover how Canada is leading the charge in the digital age, ensuring safety and stability in an increasingly interconnected world. 

In this episode of Code and Country, we talk to Elizabeth Sizeland, former U.K. Deputy National Security Adviser and Prime Minister’s Adviser on National Resilience and Security, to explore the evolving intersection of cybersecurity, resilience, and national security. 

From her leadership experience shaping U.K. cyber policies and managing domestic security crises, Elizabeth talks about how nations can combat state-sponsored cyber threats. She discusses the evolving role of the National Cyber Force, the importance of public-private collaboration, and the need for societal-level resilience to safeguard critical infrastructure.  

Elizabeth also discusses emerging technologies that are reshaping the global cyber landscape, like quantum computing and AI. With an emphasis on preparing for high-impact risks, she shares practical advice on building resilience, responding to modern threats, and ensuring rapid recovery from crisis. Tune in to gain real insights into the strategies governments and enterprises must adopt to navigate today’s complex cybersecurity challenges.   

What does it take to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity? VADM Mike McConnell, USN (Ret.), former Director National Intelligence (DNI), Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Vice Chairman of Booz Allen Hamilton, joins Code and Country to share unparallelled insights on the critical issues shaping the digital defense landscape today.

From tackling advanced ransomware attacks to leveraging AI-driven cybersecurity solutions, VADM McConnell discusses the challenges and opportunities facing governments and enterprises alike. He delves into the importance of public-private sector collaboration, the growing impact of generative AI on cyber defense, and the evolving role of organizations like Cyber Command. Learn how his leadership helped shape modern approaches to safeguarding critical infrastructure and responding to nation-state threats.