Claim OwnershipIron Butterfly
Subscribed: 38Played: 1,041
Subscribe
© Iron Butterfly Media
Description
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.
86 Episodes
Reverse
In the powerful Season 8 finale, we sit down with Celia "CC" Durall—CEO of CD Possibilities, leadership coach, and a former force within the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community. With a career rooted in human capital and workforce strategy, CC brings a wealth of experience and insight to this closing chapter.She shares her story of growing up as a third culture kid, the daughter of diplomats, navigating multiple languages and cultures from a young age. This upbringing shaped her ability to become a natural translator—not just of language, but of people and systems.We dive into her journey through the world of workforce development, her collaborations with academia, and the critical shifts in strategic workforce planning following 9/11. Through it all, CC speaks candidly about the art of self-reinvention, and how embracing uncertainty led her to a series of fulfilling and impactful roles.Don’t miss this inspiring close to Season 8—packed with lessons on leadership, identity, and following the wave where it takes you.
In this special FVEY episode, we’re joined by Lucy Ferguson, Minister Counsellor for Foreign, Security and Development Policy at the British Embassy in Washington, DC. With a career spanning pivotal global roles—including working directly with the British Foreign Secretary and representing the UK at the G20 (yes, she was the UK’s “yak”)—Lucy brings a unique and candid perspective on diplomacy behind the scenes.Lucy opens up about her educational journey, including her unexpected path to studying theology, and how that potentially shaped her worldview. She shares what it’s like to be in the room during high-stakes negotiations, listening as history unfolds in real time. With her joyful spirit, collaborative mindset, and a great sense of humor, Lucy offers both wisdom and warmth in this conversation that ranges from policy to parenting, and everything in between.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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/
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States