Iron Butterfly

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/IronButterflyPodcastTo learn more about Iron Butterfly Media, check out our website: https://www.ironbutterflymedia.com/

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/IronButterflyPodcastTo learn more about Iron Butterfly Media, check out our website: https://www.ironbutterflymedia.com/

In this special live episode of the Iron Butterfly Podcast, hosted in partnership with the National Security Institute (NSI) at George Mason University, we delve into the pivotal role of women in the tech and intelligence sectors. This dynamic discussion, titled “The Future is Female,” features two esteemed guests: Rachel H. Grunspan, Deputy Chief for Strategy & Policy for the CIA, and Chandra Osann, Deputy Executive at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI). Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities within the intelligence community and offer a powerful glimpse into how women are shaping the future of national security.

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/IronButterflyPodcastTo learn more about Iron Butterfly Media, check out our website: https://www.ironbutterflymedia.com/

Megan and Cadie travel for the first time outside the DC area to bring Iron Butterfly Podcast to Colorado Springs, hosted by University of Colorado Colorado Springs. In this ‘Beyond the Beltway” episode, Sandra Auchter (Director of National Geospatial Intelligence Agency - Denver), Jenna Seidel (Director of National Security Agency/Central Security Service - Colorado), and Rachel Leahy (Director of Special Programs at General Atomics) share their stories, experiences, and reflections on a career in intelligence.

Iron Butterfly Podcast is back for Season 7, and better than ever! :butterfly: On this Season 7 teaser, Megan and Cadie give a sneak peak at what’s to come this fall, along with other exciting Iron Butterfly updates and the launch of Patreon.

This week, Intelligence and National Security Alliance invites Cadie Hopkins to record a live Iron Butterfly Podcast episode at 'The New IC' Conference with Eman Blair. Eman describes her journey from being a ‘triple minority’ in the Middle East — a refugee, a Palestinian, and a woman — to being the Chief Digital Officer at Central Intelligence Agency. Eman's story is special, and a true testament to the resilience, service, and hope held within the journeys of intelligence community women.

On our Season 6 finale, we are joined by the incredible Sandra Auchter, Director of NGA Denver. A self described foreign policy wonk, she's known to listen to alternate between NPR and Wall Street Journal podcasts and Beyonce's latest music. From discussing the foundational INT to what Sandra's 'walk-out' song would be, tune in for a truly fun episode!

On this episode we are joined by Caitlin Marsh, an engineer by training but a true social engineer at heart. She is currently VP of Product at SpiderOak and has served in multiple roles across the IC. Empathetic, kind and a little bit spicy, Caitlin is an incredible mentor who isn't afraid to jump at new opportunities or try something new.