NatSec Matters
Beacon Global Strategies LLC
Formerly known as Intelligence Matters, the NatSec Matters podcast features former senior national security officials Michael Allen, Jeremy Bash, and Andrew Shapiro as they interview top leaders in national security, including intelligence officers, military leaders, and policymakers, on the most critical security challenges of our time. Their interviews offer insights into the world's most pressing problems and assess the effectiveness of U.S. policy responses. They also explore the biographies and careers of individuals who have devoted their lives to protecting our nation, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the inner workings of national security decision-making. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please email our team at bgs@bgsdc.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 25, 2026 • 46min
Off-Ramp or Escalator - The Iranian Regime's Final Act?: Dr. Seth Jones
Michael speaks with Dr. Seth Jones, president of CSIS's Defense and Security Department, to analyze a critical moment in the Iran conflict: are we headed for a diplomatic off-ramp or a rapid escalation toward regime change? Dr. Jones assesses the degradation of Iran's naval and drone capabilities and explains why the current campaign has successfully reset the regional balance of power. However, he also explores the "buying time" strategy of Iranian diplomacy and the increasing pressure from Gulf states to see the regime ended as it continues to strike commercial and energy targets. Finally, Dr. Jones examines the tactical shift in Israeli targeting and what it means for the long-term survival of the IRGC.
Mar 20, 2026 • 49min
Israel's Strategic Reset: Yaakov Katz
Yaakov Katz, former Jerusalem Post editor and author, brings sharp expertise on Israeli security and regional strategy. He discusses Israel shifting focus from proxies to direct confrontation with Iran. Conversations cover public support for the campaign, targeting priorities from missiles to leadership figures, U.S. coordination, and political fallout for Israel's leadership.
10 snips
Mar 18, 2026 • 54min
The Hormuz Pressure Cooker and Oil Price Roulette: Clay Seigle & Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery
Mark Montgomery, retired Rear Admiral and naval security expert, explains what it takes to reopen the Straits of Hormuz and escort tankers. Clay Siegel, energy-security fellow, outlines how Hormuz disruptions could spike global oil and LNG markets. They discuss strikes on Kharg Island, convoy tactics, mine-clearance challenges, and how military and market moves shape the regional energy squeeze.
Mar 12, 2026 • 51min
Searching for Cracks in Iran's Core: Michael Doran
Michael speaks with Michael Doran, Director of the Hudson Institute's Center for Peace and Security in the Middle East and a former senior director in the National Security Council, about the outlook for U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran. Mr. Doran explains the internal power dynamics within the Iranian regime and why they matter to potential negotiations to de-escalate or end the conflict. He also explores the likely diverging interests of Israeli and American leaders, why understanding the influence of Iranian ethnic groups is vital to charting possible outcomes, and why he believes a citizen-led uprising to topple the government is unlikely.
Mar 11, 2026 • 54min
The CENTCOM Playbook for Iran?: Gen. Joseph Votel
Michael discusses the rapidly developing conflict in the Middle East with General Joseph Votel, former commander of CENTCOM and U.S. Special Operations Command. General Votel analyzes the strategic implications of Iran blocking the Strait of Hormuz and the challenges of a potential special operations raid to recover highly enriched uranium in the country. He also examines the shifting power dynamics within the Iranian regime, including how the new Supreme Leader's lack of religious credentials may lead to increased influence from the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Mar 10, 2026 • 41min
Chaos & Control in Iran: Amb. Jeffrey Feltman
Jeffrey Feltman, former UN Under-Secretary-General and Brookings fellow, offers a sharp read on Iran's leadership shift and regional risks. He unpacks Mojtaba Khamenei's sudden rise and regime cohesion. He outlines Israeli targeting, nuclear risks tied to HEU, and the potential for wider regional escalation.
63 snips
Mar 4, 2026 • 55min
Exclusive - The Iranian End Game: Richard Nephew
Richard Nephew, former National Security Council director for Iran and current scholar, analyzes Iran’s strategic behavior and nuclear risks. He discusses how the regime might retaliate regionally, leadership succession scenarios, and risks of fragmentation and proliferation. Short, sharp takes on strikes, energy pressure, and the Straits of Hormuz’s de facto closure.
7 snips
Mar 2, 2026 • 37min
Special Episode - The Battle for the Middle East: Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery
Mark Montgomery, retired Rear Admiral and national security leader, brings 32 years of Navy experience and policy work. He breaks down U.S.-Israeli strike objectives, sequencing and campaign rhythm. He analyzes risks to shipping, regional bases, and Gulf states. He assesses Iran’s options, proxy threats, and great power reactions in a rapidly shifting Middle East.
Feb 26, 2026 • 46min
Eliminating 'El Mencho' & Re-Engineering the Americas: Dr. Ryan Berg
Dr. Ryan Berg, director of the Americas Program and Venezuela specialist at CSIS. He breaks down Mexico's violent cartel fallout after El Mencho's killing and the shifting U.S.-Mexico security cooperation. He maps Venezuela's high-stakes road to credible elections and outlines U.S. pressure and outreach strategies toward Cuba.
Feb 18, 2026 • 45min
Red Sea Rivalries - The Proxy War for Sudan and the Geopolitical Interests in East Africa: Josh Meservey
Josh Meservey, Senior Fellow at the Hudson Institute and expert on African geopolitics and counterterrorism. He unpacks the Sudanese civil war and its ripple effects across the Red Sea. He explains Saudi and UAE rivalries, maritime choke points, and the Great Power competition as China expands in Africa. He argues the U.S. should prioritize trade and strategic engagement over traditional aid.
