
Leon Panetta
Former U.S. Secretary of Defense and CIA Director with decades of public service and experience in national security and intelligence.
Top 10 podcasts with Leon Panetta
Ranked by the Snipd community

37 snips
Jun 5, 2023 • 38min
The Superforecasters: With Guests Leon Panetta, Peter Bergen & Barbara Mellers
There are moments in life where it seems as though everything is riding on one important decision. If only we had a crystal ball to see the future, we could make those decisions with greater confidence. Fortune-telling aside, there are actually methods to improve our predictions—and our decisions.In this episode of Choiceology with Katy Milkman, we look at what makes some people “superforecasters.” In 2010, the United States government had been looking for Al Qaeda leader and perpetrator of the 9/11 attacks, Osama bin Laden, for nearly a decade. Years of intelligence gathering all over the world had come up short. It seemed every new tip was a dead end. But one small group of CIA analysts uncovered a tantalizing clue that led them to a compound in Pakistan. Soon, the president of the United States would be faced with a difficult choice: to approve the top-secret mission or not.We will hear this story from two perspectives. Peter Bergen is a national security commentator and author of the book The Rise and Fall of Osama bin Laden. He interviewed Osama bin Laden in 1997.Former CIA director Leon Panetta led the United States government’s hunt for bin Laden and describes the night his mission came to a dramatic conclusion.Next, Katy speaks with Barbara Mellers about research that shows how so-called superforecasters make more accurate predictions despite facing uncertainty and conflicting information. You can read more in the paper titled "Identifying and Cultivating Superforecasters as a Method of Improving Probabilistic Predictions."Barabara Mellers is the I. George Heyman University Professor of both marketing at the Wharton School and of psychology at the School of Arts and Sciences at the University of Pennsylvania. Choiceology is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/podcast.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresAll expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions.The comments, views, and opinions expressed in the presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of Charles Schwab.Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.All corporate names are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.The book, How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be, is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (CS&Co.). Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (CS&Co.) has not reviewed the book and makes no representations about its content.Apple Podcasts and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.Google Podcasts and the Google Podcasts logo are trademarks of Google LLC.Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify AB.(0623-3UG1) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

24 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 35min
And, This is Secretary Leon Panetta
Former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta shares insights from his extensive public service career. He discusses the implications of deploying military forces in California and warns against the dangers of politicizing the National Guard. Leon emphasizes the need to revive Congress's role in maintaining democratic checks and balances, calling for active citizenship. He also highlights challenges facing democracy today while fostering optimism about public commitment to constitutional values.
23 snips
Dec 15, 2025 • 26min
Leon Panetta on the Trump Administration’s Venezuelan Boat Strikes
Leon Panetta, former U.S. Chief of Staff and CIA Director, shares his insights on military ethics and strategy. He delves into the legal implications of Navy strikes on civilian boats in Venezuela, emphasizing the need to avoid war crimes. Panetta critiques the blurred lines of military versus law enforcement in drug trafficking, advocates for clarity in U.S. objectives, and warns against misusing the military. He also discusses the importance of a strong response to Russia's aggression and the critical need for a unified approach to defend democracy.

22 snips
Dec 6, 2025 • 48min
TDS Time Machine | Secretaries of Defense
In this engaging discussion, former U.S. Secretaries of Defense Robert Gates and Leon Panetta reveal invaluable insights from their storied careers. Gates tackles the challenges of military reforms and the complexities of Congress, emphasizing the pitfalls of relying solely on military responses. Panetta highlights the shortcomings of U.S. strategies against ISIS and the intricacies of Syrian intervention. Both guests stress the urgent need for bipartisan cooperation and accountability in governance, urging leaders to align with the sacrifices made by those in uniform.

13 snips
Nov 7, 2024 • 38min
Ex-CIA Chief on What Trump's Return Means for the World
Join Times Radio Political Editor Kate McCann and former CIA Director Leon Panetta as they dissect the fallout from Donald Trump's unexpected re-election. McCann shares insights on Washington and European reactions, highlighting political shifts, especially in the UK. Panetta provides a deep dive into the implications for U.S. foreign policy, touching on the potential isolationist trends and the delicate balance in international relations, particularly with Ukraine and China. It's a riveting exploration of a changing global landscape.

10 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 30min
Two Spy Chiefs on What to Expect at the Trump-Putin Summit
Former Secretary of Defense and CIA Director Leon Panetta joins Sir Richard Dearlove, former MI6 Chief, to dissect the complexities of the Trump-Putin summit. They analyze whether Alaska represents a strategic peace overture or a perilous gamble. The duo discusses the critical absence of Ukraine in negotiations, historical lessons about appeasement, and the potential impacts on NATO unity and Taiwan. These insights reflect their vast experience in Cold War strategy and the delicate balance of modern geopolitics.

5 snips
Mar 24, 2026 • 1h 31min
"Lying Us Into Wars Is TERRORISM!" MAGA Feuds Over Trump-Iran | Feat. Bill O'Reilly
The war on Iran has divided Trump’s base and nothing currently shows this more than warring MAGA podcasters.
The likes of Tucker Carlson, Theo Von, Candace Owens and Joe Rogan all hold huge influence - and all supported Trump’s re-election, but have spoken out against the Iran War.
And vehemently pro-war broadcasters like Mark Levin and Ben Shapiro are nowhere to be seen at the top of the charts.
Trump’s MAGA core has always been right behind him - but they’re nowhere near enough for him or any Republican to win the presidency.
Joining Piers Morgan to discuss this is former US defense secretary and CIA director Leon Panetta, host of No Spin News Bill O’Reilly, and former wrestler, actor and Governor Jesse Ventura.
Plus host of Part of the Problem Dave Smith and Valuetainment host and PBD Podcast’s Adam Sosnick go head-to-head… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 1h 5min
“We DON’T Trust You!” Should Trump Bomb Iran? Marandi vs Panel On Nuclear Talks
In this engaging discussion, Iranian academic Mohammad Marandi and former CIA director Leon Panetta share insights on the possible consequences of U.S. military action against Iran. Political commentators Ben Ferguson and Scott Horton debate the risks and benefits of nuclear negotiations, while human rights activist Elica Lebon emphasizes the importance of trust in U.S.-Iran relations. The panel grapples with Iran's nuclear ambitions and the historical tensions that shape current geopolitical dynamics, sparking a fiery exchange on regional stability and the prospect of diplomacy.

Feb 26, 2020 • 51min
Leon Panetta: Presidential Chief of Staff, CIA Director, and Secretary of Defense
Leon Panetta, a former U.S. Cabinet official with a remarkable career, tackles pressing issues in American politics. He discusses the alarming polarization and dysfunction in Washington, asserting it poses risks to democracy. Panetta outlines two possible futures for America: renewal through principled leadership or decline. He reflects on his immigrant roots and emphasizes the importance of integrity in governance. He warns against the dangers of low-yield nuclear weapons while advocating for negotiation in foreign policy. Panetta's insights are rooted in experience and a commitment to democracy.

Mar 13, 2026 • 45min
Closing Bell Overtime: Markets Search for a Bottom as Fed Pressure Builds and Energy Risks Mount 3/13/26
Leon Panetta, former Defense Secretary and CIA Director, on military options, Strait of Hormuz risks, and paths to ceasefire. Amon Javers, Washington reporter, on DOJ subpoenas, Fed legal fights, and political fallout. They discuss market pressure from Washington, oil and energy risks, and what rising geopolitical tension means for investors.


