The first podcast by and for women in the US Intelligence Community, The Iron Butterfly Podcast brings you real stories from women in intelligence.
Eighty years ago, Eloise Page joined the Office of Strategic Services, trailblazing a path for what ultimately became the United States Intelligence Community. She rose the ranks from secretary to case officer, defying the norms of her time, and eventually became the first female Chief of Station at CIA. Eloise was known among her colleagues to be a fierce fighter with a core of steel, and she earned the code name ”Iron Butterfly.”
Our podcast continues her legacy, inviting the unsung heroines of the US intelligence community to share their stories with aspiring leaders like you.Women in the intelligence community are special because they’ve dedicated their lives to studying the whole world. And through conversations with hundreds of women in intelligence over the past few years, we’ve come to understand that the world is at an inflection point. Women hold a more central role in society than ever before, and at Iron Butterfly Media, we are committed to amplifying authentic voices that inspire women to create, wherever they are.
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Yolanda Reid: Mercedes on the NSA, Cybersecurity, and Strength through Adversity
Today’s episode features the remarkable Yolanda, an Associate Partner in Cybersecurity whose career spans everything from scaling antenna towers to exploring the quantum computing horizon. Yolanda takes us through her one-of-a-kind journey—beginning as a high school intern at the NSA, rising through the ranks to become a full-time intelligence professional, and now leading organizations through the complexities of emerging tech threats.
We delve into her early days collecting RF signals (yes, complete with rappelling from dizzying heights), her transition from offensive to defensive cybersecurity work, and her current focus on preparing the digital world for the impact of quantum computing. Along the way, Yolanda opens up about her battle with cancer, the strength she drew from her community, and how that experience reshaped her approach to life and leadership.
This episode is a masterclass in resilience, intelligence, and humanity. Don’t miss Yolanda’s powerful story—you’ll walk away inspired, informed, and maybe a little braver.
Rupal Patel: Arsenal on Intelligence Analysis, Curiosity, Courage, and Self-Leadership
In this episode, we sit down with Rupal Patel, Founder and CEO of The Global Leadership Lab, who’s on a mission to redefine what leadership means in today’s complex, fast-changing world. Her journey to the C-suite is anything but conventional—and that’s exactly what makes it powerful.
From starting her career as a young hustler in PR at an indie hip-hop label to unexpectedly serving as a CIA analyst, Rupal has moved through vastly different spaces with the same signature blend of curiosity, courage, and creativity. She’s the kind of leader who can unpack global geopolitics in one breath and dive into her favorite book in the next—all over a strong cup of coffee.
Relatable, nerdy, thoughtful, and fiercely creative, Rupal shares how embracing the unexpected shaped her leadership philosophy, why real conversations with the right people matter and what inspired her to write not one but multiple books.
This isn’t just a story about success—it’s about resilience, reinvention, and leading with both intensity and heart.
Michelle Mosey: Cowgirl on Risk-Taking, Difference-Making, and FVEY Intelligence-Sharing
In this very exciting episode—our first-ever Five Eyes (FVEY) feature—we're thrilled to welcome a true changemaker in the world of cybersecurity. Our guest is none other than Michelle Mosey, Founder of Valkyrie Cyber, whose impressive career spans military service, high-level intelligence liaison roles, and impactful leadership in the tech sector. She details her time in the Australian Navy and how she transitioned into the intelligence sector and ultimately worked alongside former USDI James Clapper. Additionally she details how she later helped veterans transition into cyber roles at With You With Me. Michelle brings a wealth of experience and insight to the conversation.
But there's more to her than just her resume. Michelle is an adventurer at heart—whether she's camping under the stars, exploring new corners of the world, or creating magic in the kitchen. A true risk-taker with a powerful story, she shares her journey, lessons learned, and her bold vision for the future of cybersecurity.
Don’t miss this one—we're just getting started with FVEY, and this episode sets the bar high.
Suzanne Spaulding: Kingfisher on WMD, Family Life, and the Hokey Pokey with the KBG
Season 8, Episode 3 | In this episode, we’re joined by the remarkable Suzanne Spaulding, a Senior Advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), where she founded the Defending Democratic Institutions Project. With a career that spans critical roles across the intelligence and national security landscape—including Legal Advisor at the CIA’s Nonproliferation Center, Chief Counsel to both the Senate and House Intelligence Committees, Executive Director of major Congressional Commissions, and member of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission—Suzanne brings a wealth of insight, wit, and candid reflection.
She shares stories from a life spent at the intersection of law, policy, and global security, including unforgettable moments like meeting Gaddafi, leading bipartisan efforts in Congress, and, yes, doing the hokey pokey and singing kumbaya with the KGB.
Importantly, we talk about the next generation—how efforts like Girl Security are helping to inspire and prepare young women to lead in national security and public service. It’s a conversation that’s as thought-provoking as it is delightfully unexpected.
Tune in for an episode filled with wisdom, stories, and a few good laughs.
Elizabeth Grimm (Pt 2): Reaper Ever After on Activism, Kindness, and Hope in 2025
We’re back with part two of our conversation with Elizabeth Grimm, and trust us—you’re going to want to lean in for this one. After an already epic career in national security, Liz somehow “accidentally” became a professor (are we sensing a theme here?). She shares how teaching became her calling, even as she tried to resist it, and how she sees it as helping students navigate what to believe in an increasingly chaotic world.
We also zoom out to tackle the big stuff: how to hold onto hope in 2025, why kindness can be an act of resistance, and what it looks like to stay civically active while honoring the apolitical demands of a national security career.
If part one was the origin story, this is the heart of Liz's story. Thoughtful, funny, and quietly powerful—you'll just want to lean in.
Elizabeth Grimm (Pt 1): Reaper Ever After on Teaching, Torture, and Selzter Water
Hold onto your hats because episode two is one wild ride! We’re joined by Elizabeth Grimm, a powerhouse in both national security and academia. Currently a Professor of Teaching in the Security Studies Program at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, Elizabeth’s career path can best be described as “unexpectedly epic.”
In part one of this episode, we dive into how Elizabeth accidentally became a lawyer in France (yes, you read that right), and how her first job out of college had her rubbing shoulders with top brass at the Department of Defense. From there, we talk about her trailblazing role at the brand-new National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), all while juggling the demands of her PhD. But that’s not all—we also tackle the big questions, like how to compartmentalize traumatic research topics. And we include a seriously important debate about the best types of bubbly water—because hey, national security and sparkling water are intertwined, right?
Tune in for a conversation that’s equal parts deep, inspiring, entertaining, and refreshingly bubbly!
Katrina Mulligan (Pt 2) on Benghazi, GTMO, Snowden, & Surviving a Cancer Diagnosis
Iron Butterfly Podcast is back for part two of our season premiere with Katrina Mulligan! Part two is just as fun as the first with Katrina diving back into her extraordinary career.
Currently the National Security Lead at Open AI, Katrina shares her experiences as Barack Obama's paralegal before he even ran for the Senate, working on GTMO policy at the ODNI, and being Chief of Staff to the first female Secretary of the Army. Along the way, she shares some unforgettable moments and reflections. She even talks about attending Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour and making friendship bracelets with her boss!
Katrina Mulligan: Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me on Seizing Opportunity and Barack Obama’s Campaign
The Iron Butterfly Podcast is back for Season 8 and we kick things off with an episode so packed with insights, we had to split it into two! Megan and Cadie sit down with Katrina Mulligan, currently the National Security Lead at Open AI. Katrina has had an extraordinary career, including serving as Barack Obama's paralegal before he even ran for the Senate, working on GTMO policy at the ODNI, and being Chief of Staff to the first female Secretary of the Army. Along the way, she shares some unforgettable moments and reflections. She even talks about attending Taylor Swift's Eras Tour and making friendship bracelets with her boss!
In this first part, she opens up about the importance of seizing unexpected opportunities and how to know when to pivot, have a plan, and execute it with precision. Don’t miss out on this fascinating conversation, and be sure to tune in in two weeks for Part Two!To support The Iron Butterfly Podcast, visit out Patreon: / ironbutterflypodcast To learn more about Iron Butterfly Media, check out our website: https://www.ironbutterflymedia.com/
Shari Garcia Rozen: Steel Blossom
On our season 7 finale, we sit down with Shari Garcia Rozen, Chief Data and Artificial Intelligence Officer (CDAO) at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), who takes us through a fascinating career journey, from her first job as a Sales Associate at the GAP to her current pivotal role in shaping data and AI strategy for the U.S. government.
Shari shares her unique career path, which includes stints as a Private Sector Consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton working in the financial sector, and how these experiences fueled her curiosity, analytical mindset, and energy to tackle some of the nation's most complex intelligence challenges. We also dive into what it means to work in the intersection of data and artificial intelligence, and the critical role these technologies play in national security.
Outside of work, Shari talks about her favorite hobbies such as hiking, traveling, crafting, and yes, sleep (it’s important!). And in a fun twist, she recounts a time she had the thrilling opportunity to drive a Ferrari at the iconic Ferrari factory in Maranello, Italy.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about curiosity, career evolution, and nerding out.
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Special Episode: Iron Butterfly Documentary
Iron Butterfly is currently producing the first documentary feature film about women in the intelligence community. On this special episode of Iron Butterfly Podcast, Megan and Cadie share their documentary production journey, where they are today, and how you can support.
Iron Butterfly Foundation is self-funding this feature film to ensure the truth of these stories are told, and we need your help. To support the completion of this film, give a tax deductible end of year gift to Iron Butterfly Foundation and help us reach our $50,000 fundraising goal: https://donorbox.org/iron-butterfly-foundation-2024-eoy-fundraising-campaign
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Marisa Lightfoot: Formidable Bear
In this episode, we sit down with Marisa Lightfoot, a Senior Director at EY-Parthenon’s Strategy Practice, where she leads strategy initiatives focused on emerging technologies. With a diverse and dynamic career that spans the U.S. Army, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), and even launching and selling her own tea company, Marisa shares her unique journey of growth, resilience, and innovation. From "growing a spine" in the Army to "growing up" in the world of program management, she offers insights into how each chapter shaped her approach to leadership and strategy.
We also dive into her entrepreneurial spirit, with a conversation about her time building a hyperspectral imagery sensor for the Army, and her knack for brewing up both ideas and herbal remedies in her downtime. Whether it's wake surfing, reading, or empowering those around her, Marisa brings an energy that's both scrappy and nurturing. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about taking risks, embracing change, and finding fulfillment across diverse professional and personal pursuits.
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Diana Burley: Steel Fist inside a Velvet Glove
In this episode, we sit down with Diana Burley, the Vice Provost for Research and Innovation at American University, to explore their journey in academia and research. From her time as a professor at Syracuse University to leading programs at the National Science Foundation and engaging with the Intelligence Community, Diana shares her experiences in fostering academic growth and innovation.
We discuss the challenges and rewards of her current role, balancing leadership with creativity, and the importance of resilience in both personal and professional life. Known for her thoughtfulness, humor, and generous spirit, Diana also opens up about her love for audiobooks, decorating, and spending quality time with her dog.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about navigating the world of research, leading with purpose, and the value of creating meaningful connections.
To support The Iron Butterfly Podcast, visit out Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/IronButterflyPodcast
To learn more about Iron Butterfly Media, check out our website: https://www.ironbutterflymedia.com/
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Special Episode with Girl Security on Election Security
On this episode, Megan and Iron Butterfly's producer Amanda sit down with Girl Security Founder Lauren Buitta and member Kyla Guru to discuss election security and how young women and professionals are tackling this problem set.
Lauren Buitta is a seasoned National Security professional and Iron Buttefly alum, who started Girl Security in 2016, the only organization dedicated to advancing girls, women, and gender minorities in national security through supportive pathways. Kyla Guru is a technologist and social entrepreneur who has worked across the public and private sector, amplifying her mission to build a safer and healthier internet for all. She is CEO/Founder of Bits N’ Bytes Cybersecurity Education Corp., and currently pursuing her MS in Computer Science at Stanford University.
To learn more about Girl Security - https://www.girlsecurity.org/
To learn more about Kyla's non-profit Bits N Bites Cybersecurity Education Corp., - https://www.bitsnbytes.us.com/
To support The Iron Butterfly Podcast, visit out Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/IronButterflyPodcast
To learn more about Iron Butterfly Media, check out our website: https://www.ironbutterflymedia.com/
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The Future is Female: Live at George Mason University
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Jennifer Ewbank: Renaissance Quest
On this episode Megan and Cadie sit down with Jennifer Ewbank, a senior national security executive who served as Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency for Digital Innovation from 2019-early 2024. Jennifer started her career as a Case Officer and went on to serve four tours as Chief of Station and the Chief of the former National Resources Division. Tune in to hear what it's really like to be a Case Officer.
To support The Iron Butterfly Podcast, visit out Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/IronButterflyPodcast
To learn more about Iron Butterfly Media, check out our website: https://www.ironbutterflymedia.com/
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Beyond the Beltway: Live at University of Colorado Colorado Springs
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Season 7 Teaser
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Eman Blair: Faith
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Sandra Auchter: Badassy
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Caitlin Marsh: Evergreen
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Maureen "Marty" Fromuth: Danvers
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Special Panel Episode | See Her Be Her
In this special panel episode titled See Her Be Her, hosted by Marymount University and the Marymount Intelligence Club, Megan and Cadie sit down with butterflies Carmen Medina (Rebel at Work), Arlene Gaylord (Corazón), and Stephanie La Rue (Mija). They dive into the concept if you can see her, you can be her and how they were each other’s “her.” A truly special episode full of great moments exploring the importance of diversity in the workplace, the power of authenticity, and what they would tell their younger selves.
Episode Correction - Stephanie La Rue's Bio should read : Stephanie La Rue is the chief of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility for the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, where she leads the implementation of the national DEIA strategy for the Intelligence Community. La Rue previously served as CIA's chief diversity strategist and as an attorney for CIA's Office of General Counsel. In 2016, La Rue founded the Latino Intelligence Network, a collective of Latinx Employee Resource Groups across the IC.
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Debora Plunkett: Steel Scale
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Linda Weissgold: Reality check
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Uyen Dinh: Diamond Eye
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Kristi Scott: Red October
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Season 6 Teaser
The Iron Butterfly Podcast is back and fiercer than ever! Join Megan and Cadie as they share exciting updates about the team, plans for 2024, and the new Iron Butterfly Studio.
Season 6 will premiere on March 3, 2024.
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Arlene Gaylord: Corazón
On our Season Finale we are joined by the extraordinary Arlene Gaylord. Arlene has spent 32+ years at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and is the Executive Assistant Director (EAD) of the Information and Technology Branch (ITB).
She discusses a range of topics from creating effective and lasting change by using your seat at the table to similarities between the FBI and Broadway. It is no wonder that Arlene has smashed glass ceilings but even more encouraging to know that she will ensure that she is not the last. Tune in to hear her incredible story and for a truly fun episode, full of laughs.
Show Notes:
- 02:17 Río Piedras, Puerto Rico
- 02:50 FBI, Honors Internship Program (HIP)
- 45:15 Lin Manuel Miranda, Pin Collection
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Vinita Fordham: Ms. Marvel
Episode Summary:
This week we are joined by Vinita Fordham, a technology leader working at the cutting edge. Vinita is Chief Innovation Officer for Bridge Core, LLC and previously served as an AI specialist leader at Deloitte focused on delivering and advocating for mission ready AI strategies and solutions. She also served as a senior executive in the United States Intelligence Community. Tune in to hear how her older brother's love for engineering encouraged and inspired her career path and how she developed a passion for the intelligence mission.
Show Notes:
02:40 Louisiana State University (LSU)
05:25 National Reconnaissance Office (NRO)
08:35 Bihar, India
12:00 In-Q-Tel (IQT)
26:30 CIA, Digital Futures
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Tasha Jones: Ghost Phoenix
This episode we are joined by the amazing Tasha Jones, a U.S. Navy Veteran and Founder of Twenty39, a purpose built solutions and services partner leveraging over twenty five years’ experience in the U.S. government market space. Tasha discusses how she transitioned from government into the business world and is an ardent supporter and champion of women in entrepreneurship and innovation. A force to be reckoned with, we are so inspired by her tenacity and passion for enacting change and empowering others.
Show Notes:
- 12:30 The Diplomat, Keri Russell
- 28:30 Citrine Angels
- 30:30 Hive 39
- 33:30 Unveiled GovCon Stories
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Jen Sovada: Interstellar
On this episode we are joined by Colonel (Ret.) Jen Sovada. Jen is the President of SandboxAQ’s Global Public Sector and previously served in the Air Force dedicating 25 years to various positions in operational test, systems interoperability, and requirements definition. Listen in to hear her speak to the importance of building community and lifting up those around you. And how her Grandmother, whose love of space, later influenced her drive and passion for public service and being a trailblazer.
Show Notes:
- 4:00 US Air Force, Intelligence
- 8:00 Jack Molesworth, Royal Airforce Molesworth
- 16:40 Georgetown University
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Anjuma Goswami Karkera | Fierce Something-or-Another
On this episode we are joined by the fierce Anjuma Goswami Karkera. Anjuma is the CEO of a non-profit professional services organization and previously excelled in roles at the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA) and the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). Tune in to hear her discuss how being bold and authentic paved the way for her journey into the Intelligence Community. She shares insight into the power of public service and how institutions can be instruments of positive change. Truly an episode you don’t want to miss!
Show Notes:
05:20 Cheryl Mills, Deputy White House Counsel for President Bill Clinton
06:25 Violence against women act (VAWA)
08:00 Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA)
08:10 George Pierce
18:20 Joan Dempsey
28:40 National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA)
35:40 Letitia “Tish” Long
44:00 General Stanley McChrystal
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Special Live Episode | Firefly, Mija, and Simple Patriot
In this special episode, hosted by Texas A&M University's The Bush School of Government & Public Service, Megan Jaffer and Cadie Hopkins conduct a live panel discussion with butterflies; Laura Thomas, Stephanie La Rue, and the Honorable Sue Gordon. The panel takes an independent look at women in the intelligence community and where they were on historic occasions, what it's like serving across administrations and political parties, and what they feel is the greatest threat to our national security today.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ironbutterflymedia/
Video & Audio Production: https://poorbearstories.com/
Technical Sponsor: https://nationalsecurity.gmu.edu/
Promotion: Amazing Women of the IC
Podcast Producer: Amanda Young
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Sarah Mineiro: Plasma Unicorn
On this episode, we are joined by Sarah Mineiro, a total bad-ass self-proclaimed space nerd
and one of the funniest ladies we know. Sarah is the founder and CEO of Tanagra Enterprises,
a defense, intelligence, space, science and technology consulting firm based in the DC area.
Sarah has worked within the national security and defense sector for over 20 years. Over her
career, Sarah has worked in private industry, and across both the Executive and Legislative
branches of government.
Join us for a fun discussion ranging from Space Intelligence to Art, and Stand-Up Comedy.
Show notes:
● (3:50) National Air and Space Intelligence Center
○ (4:38) Chinese Weather Satellite FY-1C
● (6:00) Strategic Forces Subcommittee for the House Armed Service Committee (HASC)
● (25:35) All the “C” Words, Sarah Mineiro, Capital Fringe Fest 2023 Review
● (31:30) The Butterfly Effect
● (35:00) The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
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Teresa Shea: Jinx Johnson
On our season 5 premiere, we are joined by the incredible Teresa Shea. Teresa has served
more than 35 years in intelligence and defense within the public and private sector. She served
as Executive Vice President of Technology and director of Cyber-Reboot at In-Q-Tel. She joined
In-Q-Tel after a distinguished thirty-two-year career with the National Security Agency (NSA,
where she held several key leadership assignments during her career culminating as the
director of Signals Intelligence. Teresa is currently the President of Oplnet, LLC. She serves on
numerous boards and is an advisor with a passion for a safer and more secure Nation.
Join us as Teresa discusses the importance of trust as a leader, leading through difficult
situations, and the power of smiling through adversity.
Show Notes:
● (2:15) Barbie, The Movie
● (2:20) Georgia Institute of Technology
● (06:04) Edward Snowden, NSA Data leak
● (06:10) Dr Geoffery Stone, University of Chicago
○ Report and Recommendations of The President’s Review Group on Intelligence
and Communications Technologies (Dec 2013), “Liberty and Security in a Changing World”
● (7:34) NSA, Privacy and Civil Liberties Office
● (25:10) The Character of a Leader: A Handbook for the Young Leader by Donald Alexander
● (36:06) What Will Matter by Michael Josephson
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Season 5 Teaser
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Iron Butterfly | Special Episode – Documentary Announcement
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Season Finale: The Iron Butterfly Podcast Team (Beating Falcon, Wise Wisteria, Fierce Fire, & Bulldog)
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Nazaret Berhane: Khaleesi
On this episode of the Iron Butterfly podcast, we are proud to welcome Nazaret Berhane to the show. Nazaret is a program manager on the IC Centers for Academic Excellence team within the IC Human Capital Office at ODNI. She brings years of experience from her time with FBI’s Foreign Language Program in addition to her service as the Directorate of Intelligence Diversity and Inclusion coordinator. She currently serves as the Women’s Intelligence Network Vice Chair.
Nazaret is passionate about creating an IC inclusive to people who are eager to serve in a variety of ways, bringing their whole selves to the community. In every role, she strives to extend kindness, mentorship, and vulnerability as an immigrant with an invisible disability, showing that no label precludes someone from being an integral member of the IC. We are so proud to share her story.
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Stephanie LaRue: Mija
On this week’s episode of the Iron Butterfly, we are thrilled to welcome Stephanie La Rue, Esq. to the podcast. Stephanie is the chief of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) where she brings her passion for DEI strategy to the IC. Stephanie also represents the IC in several White House initiatives that pursue educational equity, excellence, and economic opportunity in underrepresented communities. She also founded the Latino Intelligence Network, a collective of Latinx research groups across the IC.
Stephanie serves as the CIA’s Hispanic Advisory Council Chair, and is the recipient of IC EEO and Diversity Award for Exceptional Service and CIA’s Donald Cryer Award for exemplary contributions to the agency mission. We are proud to have her on the podcast and share her truly amazing story.
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Kristin Wood: The Conductor
On this week’s episode of the Iron Butterfly podcast, we are thrilled to share the incredible story of Kristin Wood. Kristin brings with her 20 years of career experience from CIA, with service in the analysis, operations, and digital innovation directorates as she pursued transforming and building new capabilities within the agency. She was a President’s Daily Brief briefer for Vice President Cheney and his National Security Advisor, in addition to building and leading CIA’s Advanced Analyst Program, served as the Deputy Chief of a Middle East-focused operations division. She concluded her government service as the Deputy Director of the Innovation and Technology Group at the Open Source Center.
Kristin is now the CEO and President of The Grist Mill Exchange, which is a platform that allows commercial data providers and government customers to connect seamlessly to acquire data and information for the use within Federal government. We are so excited to share her story.
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Melissa Smislova: Bumblebee
On this week's episode of the Iron Butterfly podcast, we are proud to welcome Melissa Smislova, the Senior Official Performing the Duties of Under Secretary for Intelligence and Analysis at the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Office of Intelligence and Analysis (I&A). Melissa brings decades of intelligence expertise with her, known for her work on the Soviet Union and North Korea.
Prior to her service at DHS, she worked for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), earning several awards along the way such as the National Intelligence Meritorious Unit Citation, the National Intelligence Medal of Achievement, and the President's Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board (PFIAB) 1998 Killian Award. Melissa embodies what it means to be a selfless and unapologetic woman in intelligence, balancing both fierce yet nurturing attributes within the Intelligence Community.
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Janaki Kates: Spy Mom
On this week’s episode of the Iron Butterfly podcast, we are thrilled to welcome our friend, Janaki Kates. Janaki is a national security consultant with nearly two decades of government experience and is passionate about expanding missions and growing diverse workforces. She began her career at the CIA as an analyst focusing on foreign space programs. She then went on to focus on foreign weapon systems, counterproliferation, and counterintelligence. Janaki has served at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), the Department of State, and the National Security Council. Most recently, she served as the Director of Government Affairs for the Intelligence Program at Northrop Grumman.
Janaki shares her story with the common theme of taking life by the reins as a professional, wife, mom, friend, and mentor. She is tough yet unafraid to share a laugh.
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Lauren Bean Buitta: Eagle Ears
This week on the Iron Butterfly Podcast, we are proud to welcome Lauren Bean Buitta, founder and CEO of Girl Security, a nonpartisan, non-profit building equitable pathways in national security for girls, women, and gender minorities. Lauren has worked for a think tank and founded a consulting firm prior to Girl Security, and is associated with a number of prestigious councils and committees. Lauren is a mom to two amazing humans and was named one of the “50 Women Making the World a Better Place.” In this episode, she bravely and courageously shares her story.
Please note that this episode includes some content that may be graphic and shocking to listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
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Special Episode: Virginia Hall (The Intrepidus Eagle)
On this special episode, we open Season 4 featuring Lorna and Brad Catling, family members of the legendary Virginia Hall. Virginia worked with the United Kingdom’s Clandestine Special Operations Executive (SOE) and American Office of Strategic Services (OSS), aiding the French Resistance during WWII. She went on to work with the CIA where she ultimately retired from the clandestine services. Virginia was the most highly decorated female civilian in WWII and paved the way for women in the Intelligence Community.
Her family shares her breathtaking story of bravery, resilience, and grit on this week’s season opener of Iron Butterfly.
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Suzanne Heckenberg: Y Flyer
This week on the Iron Butterfly Podcast, we are proud to welcome Suzanne Heckenberg for our Season 3 finale!
Suzanne is the President of the Intelligence and National Security Alliance (INSA), as well as the Intelligence and National Security Foundation. She oversees a host of INSA's strategies ranging from finance, to events, to corporate partnerships. She previously served as the organizations first Chief Operating officer, working to expand INSA from the inside and promote diversity and inclusion within the IC. This week, she shares her remarkable story with us.
Join us for a fantastic Season 3 finale of the Iron Butterfly Podcast!
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La’Naia Jones: Bikram
On this week’s episode of the Iron Butterfly podcast, we are proud to welcome La’Naia Jones, Deputy Chief Information Officer at the National Security Agency. She serves with previous experience as the Acting Chief Information Officer of the Intelligence Community, the Chief of Transformation and Transition in partnership with the Department of Defense, in addition to her background in IT leadership.
La’Naia joins us and proudly shares her winding path into the IC and how following her passions and working hard led her where she is today. Join us for this special episode of the Iron Butterfly podcast!
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Jackie Barbieri: Pearl of Delphi
This week on the Iron Butterfly podcast, we're joined by Jackie Barbieri, the Founder & CEO of Whitespace, a spatial data analytics company. With a history of supporting the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Intelligence Community as an intelligence analyst. Jackie shares her winding path with us through her academic endeavors at Georgetown University, her desire to serve her country in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, and with her unique linguistic strengths in Spanish, Arabic, and Italian.
In this episode, Jackie shares her purpose and passion for unlocking the value of data sets in order to understand human activity as well as improving human security everywhere. Join us in listening to Jackie's story.
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Quiet Bear, Ruski Frog, Sidewinder, and Titanium Shark
In this very special edition of the Iron Butterfly podcast, we sat down with three incredible individuals whose stories are shaped by the loss of their parents in their service to the United States. We spoke with Marie Mickley, an adventure-loving, adrenaline-junkie turned law student at the University of Wisconsin, Jacob Centeno, a professional storyteller, with the title of founder and CEO of Poor Bear Stories, a video production company in Orlando, FL, and Alison Spann, another professional storyteller based on the Mississippi Gulf Coast where she is a news anchor.
In this episode, we speak with beneficiaries of the CIA Officers Memorial Foundation, Special Operations Warrior Foundation and Defense Intelligence Memorial Foundation, non-profit organizations that support the families of fallen CIA officers and special operations forces who are killed in action. Marie, Jacob, and Alison all share their stories of bravery, sacrifice, and growth, alongside what the U.S. Intelligence Community means to them.
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Rachel Grunspan: Time Traveler
Rachel Grunspan joins us this week on the Iron Butterfly podcast, bringing her over 20 years experience at the CIA. She has impacted the Agency as a cyber-threat analyst, a game and simulation designer, an executive manager, and most recently, as Dean for CIA's Digital University. She believes in increasing the creative capacity of individuals and organizations to best close intelligence and national security gaps.
Join us for an exciting episode of the Iron Butterfly as we delve into Rachel's unique and exciting career in intelligence gaming and the digital world as it relates to intelligence, and how she has provided innovation throughout her career.
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Jacqueline Tame: Game Breaker
Jacqueline Tame, former Acting Deputy Director and inaugural Chief Performance Officer for the Department of Defense's Joint Artificial Intelligence Center, joins Iron Butterfly to discuss her winding path into the United States Intelligence Community. Jacqueline bravely shares both her professional and personal hurdles, how she overcame them, and why they shaped her into the woman and professional she is today.
In an awe-inspiring conversation, Jacqueline discusses experiences with mentors, superiors, and mentees, while sharing her background that shows that challenges do not define you. Join us in listening to Jacqueline Tame's phenomenal story in our premier episode of Iron Butterfly's third season!
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Silver Cloud, Jericho, and Water Dragon
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Season Two Finale Teaser
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Laura Nelson: Crypto Raven
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Erringer Helbling: Ruby
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Chitra Sivanandam: Fermented Chimera
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J'Tia Hart: Sable Sage
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April Falcon Doss: Grace Note
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Laura Thomas: Firefly
This week on the Iron Butterfly Podcast we are joined by Laura Thomas, a former case officer at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). During her time at the agency, Laura served as Chief of Base and led several sensitive programs. In this episode, Laura shares her view of what makes a good case officer, how a wine tasting with an asset helped to build trust with the US government, and her experience living “a double life inside a double life.” Tune in to learn more about the role of quantum science in the 21st century, the importance of hard conversations, and Laura’s aim to “illuminate the dark.”
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Special Episode: The Leprechaun, The Jackal, and Envoy
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Janna Scott-Tarman: The Trampoline
Tune in this week for a powerful new episode of the Iron Butterfly podcast. Join us as we sit down with Janna Scott-Tarman, Senior Intelligence Oversight Officer in the Defense Intelligence Agency's Office of Counterintelligence. Find out why Janna considers herself an “accidental intelligence officer” and how her experience on September 11, 2001 shaped her career trajectory. Janna discusses everything from embarrassing memories as an intelligence briefer to the painful realities of leading teams through tragedy. She dives into how to protect the goals of women, and explains why her goal is to “catch you on your worst day and propel you on your best.”
Please note that this episode includes some content that may be graphic and shocking to listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
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Joan Dempsey: Steely Eyed Blonde
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Jeny Mills: Blue Hand
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Dr. Stacey Dixon: Serene
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Mary Legere: Dragon Six
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Lynn Dugle: Boundless
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Leslie Ireland: Wonder Woman
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Season Two Teaser
Yvette Hopkins: Amarone 6
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Alice Fisher: Radar
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Dawn Meyerriecks: Heritage Oak
Join us this week as we sit down with Dawn Meyerriecks, Deputy Director for Science and Technology (DS&T) at the Central Intelligence Agency. Dawn discusses her experience as a late-career hire, the importance of reverse-mentoring, and why she wants her team to fail fast, learn, and move on. She shares her leadership style, including her work to create an environment where people feel encouraged to take risks and push the boundaries of the possible. Tune in to learn more about the importance of the newly-opened CIA Labs and the DS&T's work on "everything from mascara to space."
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Maria Witkop: Stone Catcher
This week on the Iron Butterfly Podcast, we are joined by Maria Witkop, a 21-year veteran of the FBI. Maria served in a variety of roles in the Bureau, to include evidence collection at Ground Zero after 9/11, working in the Behavioral Analysis Unit, and serving as a certified Crisis Negotiator. In this episode, Maria discusses the importance of listening and building trust, or as she says, "reaching out instead of kicking," even in the face of atrocities. Join us to find out why Maria was hugged by every person she arrested, how to be a change agent, and why we need more stone catchers in the world. To wrap up this episode, Maria shares with us a heart-stopping preview from her new book.
Please note that this episode includes some content that may be graphic and shocking to listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
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Margery Conway: Meteorite
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Corin Stone: Tempered Glass
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Janice Glover-Jones: Warrior Luminous
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Suzanne Kelly: Cipher One
Suzanne Kelly, CEO and publisher of the Cipher Brief, joins Iron Butterfly this week. Suzanne shares her journey to the Cipher Brief and becoming the go-to resource for in-depth coverage of national security issues. Prior to starting the Cipher Brief, Suzanne worked for CNN where she was the Intelligence Correspondent. She built the Cipher Brief from her 20+ years as a journalist. Suzanne is known for being an entrepreneur, bringing creative ideas to the table, and her approach to getting people to collaborate.
This discussion delves into how Suzanne, a self-proclaimed introvert, built a career from creating relationships, taking chances, and thinking outside the box. She talks about how to balance creativity and sensationalism and why she would have dinner with Putin.
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Mary Quinn: Q
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Jenifer Smith: Sapphire Helix
Jenifer Smith joins Iron Butterfly this week to share how a female biochemist ended up working in national security. Jenifer served as an FBI Special Agent for 23 years, where she oversaw analysis for DNA and weapons of mass destruction, and she also led the CIA’s Biological Technology Center. Throughout her career, she investigated some of the most high-profile cases in the community, including the Unabomber and White House scandal involving former President Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky.
This discussion delves into Jenifer’s experience breaking cultural barriers as the first female PhD hired by the FBI, balancing work life and home life, making "locker room" decisions, and following the path to ultimately become a real-world Nancy Drew.
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Tish Long: The Velvet Hammer
This week, Iron Butterfly is joined by Tish Long, former Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, and the first woman who became Director for a "big five" 3-letter agency. She shares her experience serving in key leadership roles across the community, including as the Deputy Director of Defense Intelligence Agency, Deputy Director of Naval Intelligence, and Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence.
In this episode, Tish walks us through her journey to becoming one of our community's "firsts." She shares the challenges of self-promotion, the link between leadership and confidence, and her journey growing the courage to ask "why not me?"
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Ellen McCarthy: Big Mac
The Honorable Ellen McCarthy, Assistant Secretary of State for Intelligence and Research (INR), joins Iron Butterfly this week to share her experiences rising through the ranks in the intelligence community. Ellen has served in a variety of government, private sector, and non-profit roles, including as the COO of NGA, President of Noblis NSP, and President of INSA.
This conversation explores INR's roots in the OSS, Ellen's own unconventional career path, and AWIC's power connecting women across the community.
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Karen Gibson: Kumquat
This week, Iron Butterfly is joined by Karen Gibson, a former U.S. Army Lieutenant General who served as the Director of Intelligence for four different organizations, including CENTCOM and deployed Task Forces in Iraq and Africa. She shares her adventures at the exciting nexus of intelligence and operations, and brings listeners "inside the tent" where military decision-making happens.
In this episode, Karen tells stories about the real impact of her work as a forward-deployed intelligence officer, shares her thoughts on James Bond, and reminds us all that there are human beings at the other end of everything we do.
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Sue Gordon: Simple Patriot
The Honorable Sue Gordon, former Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, joins Iron Butterfly this week to share her experiences braving uncertainty and making tough decisions in senior roles across the community. Sue is a 29-year CIA veteran with over 3 decades in the IC, and is known for her incredible leadership across the community, especially in advancing intelligence integration, expanding outreach and partnerships, and driving innovation.
This discussion delves into the challenges of authentic leadership, the inevitable trade-offs balancing work and life, and the art of decision-making. Tune in to walk in the shoes of one of the IC's most senior women.
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Carmen Medina: Rebel at Work
Carmen Medina, former Deputy Director for Intelligence Central Intelligence Agency and NSI Advisory Board member, joins Iron Butterfly to discuss her 32 years’ experience in the Intelligence Community. Carmen is the co-author of Rebels At Work: A Handbook for Leading Change from Within and of the landmark piece, Diversity’s New Frontier: Diversity of Thought and the Future of the Workplace. Her story as a change agent at CIA is featured in Wharton School professor Adam Grant’s bestseller Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World.
This far ranging conversation hits on a variety of topics including racism, diversity, and inclusion in the Intelligence Community; how to be a leader that breaks the mold; and working in apartheid South Africa. Tune in to to hear her story and tips for excelling in the Intelligence Community and beyond.
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Iron Butterfly Trailer
Welcome to the Iron Butterfly Podcast, co-produced by the National Security Institute and the Amazing Women of the IC, better known as AWIC. Iron Butterfly is the first podcast by and for women in the US Intelligence Community which brings you real stories from women in intelligence.
Eighty years ago, Eloise Page joined the Office of Strategic Services, or the OSS, a predecessor for what we recognize today as the United States Intelligence Community. Page started as a secretary, but worked her way to becoming a case officer and later, she became the first female Chief of Station at CIA. Along the way, she earned the nickname “Iron Butterfly,” known for being a fierce fighter with a core of steel. Each Tuesday Megan Jaffer will interview America’s unsung heroines to reveal their journey in the world of spies and trailblazing new paths for women in national security.
Join us every week for exciting stories, helpful tips, and meaningful conversation with women in intelligence.
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Podcasten Iron Butterfly är skapad av Iron Butterfly Media. Podcastens innehåll och bilderna på den här sidan hämtas med hjälp av det offentliga podcastflödet (RSS).
En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.