Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler

Episode 0010 – What AI Really Means for National Security: Power, Risk, and the Race to Lead

AI isn’t just writing emails or suggesting your next playlist—it’s being used to generate propaganda, disrupt elections, and quietly shift the balance of global power.
In this episode of Midweek Sitrep, host Jerry Fowler breaks down what artificial intelligence really is, what it isn’t, and why it matters for national security. From everyday tools to high-stakes policy, AI is already shaping how we live, lead, and compete—and in 2025, it’s become a key pillar of U.S. national power.
You’ll learn:
What AI actually is—and what it’s not
Why AI is suddenly a national security priority
How misinformation, surveillance, and automation raise new risks
5 ways to tell if what you’re seeing online is real—or just convincing AI
Why AI isn’t the threat—people are
Why getting smart on AI now isn’t optional—it’s strategic
🎯 Want to go deeper? Subscribe to the EINSider Brief on Substack for show notes, national security insights, and exclusive Q&A.
📺 Prefer visuals? Hit subscribe on the Midweek Sitrep YouTube channel for episode highlights, bonus clips, and more.
Whether you’re a policymaker, executive, creator, or just trying to stay informed—this episode will leave you smarter, sharper, and more prepared for the AI age.
Like, share, and subscribe for more high-impact national security briefings every week.
Follow on social media and visit our merch store! 
Everything is National Security
About the Host: Jerry Fowler
Jerry Fowler is the founder and creator of Midweek Sitrep and OPCEN Media Group LLC—a creative intelligence company dedicated to demystifying complex issues involving national security, law, and leadership. Through sharp storytelling and expert analysis, Jerry helps audiences understand the global forces shaping business, policy, and power.
In addition to his media work, Jerry is an attorney and national security policy professional with deep experience at the intersection of law, business, and government regulation. He currently leads the CFIUS and National Security practice at a global risk consultancy, where he advises companies on navigating export controls, sanctions, and U.S. national security regulatory frameworks.
Whether behind the mic or advising clients, Jerry brings clarity to complex systems—and makes national security make sense.
Jerry previously served as a West Virginia Assistant Attorney General, a federal attorney, and as a contract member of the U.S. Department of Defense’s CFIUS team. He continues his service in the Army National Guard as a Judge Advocate (Army lawyer).
Outside of work, Jerry enjoys CrossFit, distance running, hiking, and, like a true West Virginian, exploring the outdoors. He’s an avid traveler, writer, and musician, and values time spent with friends and family.
Disclaimers: 
Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler is an independent production of OPCEN Media Group LLC.
The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host, Jerry Fowler, and any guests, and do not reflect the official policy, position, or endorsement of any current or former employer, client, government agency, military organization, educational institution, or any other entity with which the host, Jerry Fowler, may be affiliated.
Mention of any company, product, or service does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Any references are provided for informational purposes only.
This podcast does not disclose any classified, proprietary, or confidential information. All discussions are based on publicly available information and personal expertise.

Brief 0002 – See? It Can Happen to Anyone: AI, Deepfakes, and How to Protect Yourself

Someone deepfaked the White House Chief of Staff—cloning her voice to target members of Congress.
This isn’t fiction. It happened last week.
In this episode of Brief, host Jerry Fowler breaks down what this headline means for you. Because in 2025, the scam isn’t always aimed at you—it might use you to get to someone else.
Learn how your voice, number, and identity can be exploited by AI—and what you can do about it right now.
What’s inside:
-The real story behind the AI voice clone targeting Trump’s White House
-Why voice cloning is more dangerous than you think
-10 fast, actionable steps to protect yourself and your people
-A sneak peek at what’s coming next on Midweek Sitrep
Because the digital front line is here—and you’re standing on it.
Brief 0002 is live now. Listen, learn, and share it with someone you want to protect.
Want the full breakdown in writing?
Get the episode notes, 10-step protection checklist, and real-world case studies—plus early drops and extras—on the Midweek Sitrep Substack:
👉 midweeksitrep.substack.com
Because staying informed shouldn’t stop at the end of the episode.
Subscribe now—and don’t get caught off guard.
Everything is National Security
About the Host: Jerry Fowler
Jerry Fowler is the founder and creator of Midweek Sitrep and OPCEN Media Group LLC—a creative intelligence company dedicated to demystifying complex issues involving national security, law, and leadership. Through sharp storytelling and expert analysis, Jerry helps audiences understand the global forces shaping business, policy, and power.
In addition to his media work, Jerry is an attorney and national security policy professional with deep experience at the intersection of law, business, and government regulation. He currently leads the CFIUS and National Security practice at a global risk consultancy, where he advises companies on navigating export controls, sanctions, and U.S. national security regulatory frameworks.
Whether behind the mic or advising clients, Jerry brings clarity to complex systems—and makes national security make sense.
Jerry previously served as a West Virginia Assistant Attorney General, a federal attorney, and as a contract member of the U.S. Department of Defense’s CFIUS team. He continues his service in the Army National Guard as a Judge Advocate (Army lawyer).
Outside of work, Jerry enjoys CrossFit, distance running, hiking, and, like a true West Virginian, exploring the outdoors. He’s an avid traveler, writer, and musician, and values time spent with friends and family.
Disclaimers: 
Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler is an independent production of OPCEN Media Group LLC.
The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host, Jerry Fowler, and any guests, and do not reflect the official policy, position, or endorsement of any current or former employer, client, government agency, military organization, educational institution, or any other entity with which the host, Jerry Fowler, may be affiliated.
Mention of any company, product, or service does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Any references are provided for informational purposes only.
This podcast does not disclose any classified, proprietary, or confidential information. All discussions are based on publicly available information and personal expertise.

Episode 0009 – You’re the Target: How Scam Calls and Phishing Put You on the Front Line

Scam calls. Phishing texts. Fake job offers.
They’re not just annoying—they’re cyberweapons used by foreign adversaries and criminal networks to steal your data, your money, and your trust.
In this episode of Midweek Sitrep, we expose how everyday digital scams are tied to global cybercrime and national security threats—and why you’re now the frontline.
You’ll learn:
How phone scams and phishing attacks actually work
Why answering unknown numbers makes you a more valuable target
What happened in the 2016 DNC hack—and how a single fake email changed U.S. history
The role of China, Russia, North Korea, and transnational scam rings
5 simple ways to protect yourself and your business
What the Trump administration is doing—and not doing—in this cyber war
This is not just cybersecurity. This is modern warfare—and it starts with your phone.
Stay alert. Stay protected. Because the next breach could start with one click.
Like, share, and subscribe for more high-impact national security briefings every other week.
Follow on social media and visit our merch store! 
Everything is National Security
About the Host: Jerry Fowler
Jerry Fowler is the founder and creator of Midweek Sitrep and OPCEN Media Group LLC—a creative intelligence company dedicated to demystifying complex issues involving national security, law, and leadership. Through sharp storytelling and expert analysis, Jerry helps audiences understand the global forces shaping business, policy, and power.
In addition to his media work, Jerry is an attorney and national security policy professional with deep experience at the intersection of law, business, and government regulation. He currently leads the CFIUS and National Security practice at a global risk consultancy, where he advises companies on navigating export controls, sanctions, and U.S. national security regulatory frameworks.
Whether behind the mic or advising clients, Jerry brings clarity to complex systems—and makes national security make sense.
Jerry previously served as a West Virginia Assistant Attorney General, a federal attorney, and as a contract member of the U.S. Department of Defense’s CFIUS team. He continues his service in the Army National Guard as a Judge Advocate (Army lawyer).
 
Outside of work, Jerry enjoys CrossFit, distance running, hiking, and, like a true West Virginian, exploring the outdoors. He’s an avid traveler, writer, and musician, and values time spent with friends and family.
Disclaimers: 
Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler is an independent production of OPCEN Media Group LLC.
The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host, Jerry Fowler, and any guests, and do not reflect the official policy, position, or endorsement of any current or former employer, client, government agency, military organization, educational institution, or any other entity with which the host, Jerry Fowler, may be affiliated.
Mention of any company, product, or service does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Any references are provided for informational purposes only.
This podcast does not disclose any classified, proprietary, or confidential information. All discussions are based on publicly available information and personal expertise.

Brief 0001 – Take It Down: Deepfakes, Blackmail, and the New Federal Crime

Deepfake abuse just became a federal crime.
Welcome to Brief—an off-week intel drop from Midweek Sitrep. Short, sharp, and mission-focused.
In Brief 0001, we break down the new law Congress passed—and President Trump signed—that makes it illegal to post or threaten to post intimate images, real or AI-generated, without consent. Known as the TAKE IT DOWN Act, the law targets one of the most disturbing threats emerging from generative AI: non-consensual digital exploitation.
We cover:
•What behavior is now prohibited
•How the law protects both minors and adults
•What platforms must do within 48 hours—or face consequences
•And why this isn’t just a privacy issue—it’s a national security one
Whether you’re a parent, professional, or policymaker, this is the legal shift you need to know about.
Like, share, and subscribe for more high-impact national security briefings every other week.
Follow on social media and visit our merch store! 
Everything is National Security
About the Host: Jerry Fowler
Jerry Fowler is the founder and creator of Midweek Sitrep and OPCEN Media Group LLC—a creative intelligence company dedicated to demystifying complex issues involving national security, law, and leadership. Through sharp storytelling and expert analysis, Jerry helps audiences understand the global forces shaping business, policy, and power.
In addition to his media work, Jerry is an attorney and national security policy professional with deep experience at the intersection of law, business, and government regulation. He currently leads the CFIUS and National Security practice at a global risk consultancy, where he advises companies on navigating export controls, sanctions, and U.S. national security regulatory frameworks.
Whether behind the mic or advising clients, Jerry brings clarity to complex systems—and makes national security make sense.
Jerry previously served as a West Virginia Assistant Attorney General, a federal attorney, and as a contract member of the U.S. Department of Defense’s CFIUS team. He continues his service in the Army National Guard as a Judge Advocate (Army lawyer).
Outside of work, Jerry enjoys CrossFit, distance running, hiking, and, like a true West Virginian, exploring the outdoors. He’s an avid traveler, writer, and musician, and values time spent with friends and family.
Disclaimers: 
Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler is an independent production of OPCEN Media Group LLC.
The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host, Jerry Fowler, and any guests, and do not reflect the official policy, position, or endorsement of any current or former employer, client, government agency, military organization, educational institution, or any other entity with which the host, Jerry Fowler, may be affiliated.
Mention of any company, product, or service does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Any references are provided for informational purposes only.
This podcast does not disclose any classified, proprietary, or confidential information. All discussions are based on publicly available information and personal expertise.

Episode 0008 – Two Lives, One Mission: Understanding America’s Reserve and National Guard Forces

They’re your coworkers, neighbors, and classmates—until they vanish for a weekend, or months, to answer the call.
In this episode of Midweek Sitrep, host Jerry Fowler breaks down the role of the Reserve Component in U.S. national security—and why the U.S. military can’t function without it.
Who are the Guard and Reserve? What do they actually do? And what happens to our national readiness if this system breaks?
From weekend drills to overseas deployments, this episode unpacks the dual life of America’s citizen-soldiers—and why friends, families, employers, and policymakers all have a role to play.
You’ll learn:
How the Reserve Component fits into the U.S. military structure
What real-world missions look like for part-time troops
Why this force is essential to national security
What support looks like—from bosses, coworkers, and families
As always, Jerry also covers the national security stories that should be on your radar.
Whether you’re a friend, family member, coworker, or employer, this episode will leave you with a clearer understanding of what your servicemember actually does—and what they go through to serve both country and community.
This is Part 2 of a special two-part series for the men and women who choose to live extraordinary lives in service of something greater than themselves—and for the families, friends, and coworkers who stand beside them. In Part 1, we covered the employment protections reservists have under the law.
Like, share, and subscribe for more high-impact national security briefings every other week.
Follow on social media and visit our merch store! 
Everything is National Security
About the Host: Jerry Fowler
Jerry Fowler is the founder and creator of Midweek Sitrep and OPCEN Media Group LLC—a creative intelligence company dedicated to demystifying complex issues involving national security, law, and leadership. Through sharp storytelling and expert analysis, Jerry helps audiences understand the global forces shaping business, policy, and power.
In addition to his media work, Jerry is an attorney and national security policy professional with deep experience at the intersection of law, business, and government regulation. He currently leads the CFIUS and National Security practice at a global risk consultancy, where he advises companies on navigating export controls, sanctions, and U.S. national security regulatory frameworks.
Whether behind the mic or advising clients, Jerry brings clarity to complex systems—and makes national security make sense.
Jerry previously served as a West Virginia Assistant Attorney General, a federal attorney, and as a contract member of the U.S. Department of Defense’s CFIUS team. He continues his service in the Army National Guard as a Judge Advocate (Army lawyer).
Outside of work, Jerry enjoys CrossFit, distance running, hiking, and, like a true West Virginian, exploring the outdoors. He’s an avid traveler, writer, and musician, and values time spent with friends and family.
Disclaimers: 
Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler is an independent production of OPCEN Media Group LLC.
The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host, Jerry Fowler, and any guests, and do not reflect the official policy, position, or endorsement of any current or former employer, client, government agency, military organization, educational institution, or any other entity with which the host, Jerry Fowler, may be affiliated.
Mention of any company, product, or service does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Any references are provided for informational purposes only.
This podcast does not disclose any classified, proprietary, or confidential information. All discussions are based on publicly available information and personal expertise.

Episode 0007 - The Hidden Cost of Service: USERRA and Veterans Discrimination

Picture this: you mention your upcoming military training to a colleague in the breakroom—and suddenly, you’re being treated like a liability instead of an asset. You thought your service mattered. You thought the law had your back. You were right—but only if employers follow it.
In this episode of Midweek Sitrep, host Jerry Fowler breaks down one of the most overlooked threats to U.S. national security: discouraging military service by failing to protect those who serve.
He unpacks USERRA—the federal law designed to protect servicemembers from losing their civilian jobs—and exposes the all-too-common ways it’s violated in boardrooms, breakrooms, and HR offices across the country.
You’ll learn:
The history of veterans’ employment protections—and why they still matter
What USERRA really guarantees (and what it doesn’t)
What discrimination looks like in 2025 (hint: it’s not always a pink slip)
A real DOJ case that shows what happens when companies violate the law
What employers must do to stay compliant—and what happens if they don’t
How failing to protect reservists isn’t just illegal—it’s a threat to U.S. military readiness
As always, Jerry also covers the national security stories that should be on your radar.
Whether you’re a business owner, compliance officer, policy professional, or just national security curious—this episode will leave you smarter and sharper than before.
This episode kicks off a two-part requested series for the men and women who choose to live extraordinary lives in service of something greater than themselves—and for their families, friends, and coworkers to better understand the jobs they do and the sacrifices they make.
Like, share, and subscribe for more high-impact national security briefings every week.
Follow on social media and visit our merch store! 
Everything is National Security
About the Host: Jerry Fowler
Jerry Fowler is the founder and creator of Midweek Sitrep and OPCEN Media Group LLC—a creative intelligence company dedicated to demystifying complex issues involving national security, law, and leadership. Through sharp storytelling and expert analysis, Jerry helps audiences understand the global forces shaping business, policy, and power.
In addition to his media work, Jerry is an attorney and national security policy professional with deep experience at the intersection of law, business, and government regulation. He currently leads the CFIUS and National Security practice at a global risk consultancy, where he advises companies on navigating export controls, sanctions, and U.S. national security regulatory frameworks.
Whether behind the mic or advising clients, Jerry brings clarity to complex systems—and makes national security make sense.
Jerry previously served as a West Virginia Assistant Attorney General, a federal attorney, and as a contract member of the U.S. Department of Defense’s CFIUS team. He continues his service in the Army National Guard as a Judge Advocate (Army lawyer).
Outside of work, Jerry enjoys CrossFit, distance running, hiking, and, like a true West Virginian, exploring the outdoors. He’s an avid traveler, writer, and musician, and values time spent with friends and family.
Disclaimers: 
Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler is an independent production of OPCEN Media Group LLC.
The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and any guests, and do not reflect the official policy, position, or endorsement of any current or former employer, client, government agency, military organization, educational institution, or any other entity with which the host may be affiliated.
Mention of any company, product, or service does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Any references are provided for informational purposes only.
This podcast does not disclose any classified, proprietary, or confidential information. All discussions are based on publicly available information and personal expertise.

Special Update: New Cadence, Same Mission

Big changes are coming to Midweek Sitrep. In this special update, host Jerry Fowler delivers the sitrep… on Midweek Sitrep itself.
We’re shifting to a biweekly release schedule, expanding features, bringing in expert guests, and digging even deeper into the national security issues that matter most. Whether you’re in government, business, compliance, or simply someone who wants to stay informed—this is your go-to national security briefing.
Plus, if you’re the kind of person who checks for new episodes before finishing your first cup of coffee… it might be time to grab your official “Coffee Is National Security” mug.
Visit: https://midweeksitrep.printful.me
New episodes every other Wednesday starting April 30. 
 
Everything is National Security
 
About the Host: Jerry Fowler
Jerry Fowler is an attorney and policy professional specializing in the intersection of business, law, and national security. He works with companies and their counsel to meet and exceed compliance obligations while navigating the complex national security regulatory landscape.
Jerry leads the CFIUS and National Security practice at a global risk consultancy where he applies his experience in export controls, sanctions, and U.S. national security regulatory regimes to advise clients on evaluating and mitigating global trade risk.
His experience spans over a decade across many capacities in state and federal government, including as a West Virginia Assistant Attorney General, federal attorney, and as a contract member of the U.S. Department of Defense’s CFIUS team. He also serves in the Army National Guard as a Judge Advocate (Army lawyer).
He received his Master of Laws degree in National Security and Cybersecurity Law from the George Washington University Law School and his Juris Doctor degree from the West Virginia University College of Law. He also obtained his Master of Business Administration degree at the University of Florida, Warrington College of Business and his Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Concord University. He holds an Artificial Intelligence Governance Professional (AIGP) certification and is licensed to practice law in the District of Columbia and West Virginia.
Disclaimers:The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any government agency, the U.S. military, or any employer, organization, or entity with which we are affiliated.
Mention of any company, product, or service in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Any references are for informational purposes only. 
This podcast does not disclose any classified, proprietary, or confidential information. Discussions are based on publicly available information and personal expertise.

Episode 0006 - Classified: Signal, Secrets, and How America Protects Its Information

Picture this: America’s top national security officials are coordinating a high-stakes military operation… over Signal. Encrypted, yes—but also outside official systems. And in the chaos, a journalist is accidentally added to the group chat.
It sounds like fiction. But it happened.
In this episode of Midweek Sitrep, host Jerry Fowler uses the Signal chat controversy as a launchpad to explain how America classifies secrets, who gets clearances, and why secure communication is more important (and fragile) than ever.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
What “classified” really means—and the 3 levels of classification
Who can classify or declassify information (including the President)
How security clearances work—and why “need to know” is just as important
What critics say the Signal chat may have violated—and how the Trump team is defending it
Real-world lessons for companies: how to handle sensitive communications before they become headlines
Why the biggest threats to national security don’t always come from enemy agents—they come from within
As always, Jerry also covers the week’s national security developments that should be on your radar in business, law, compliance, and geopolitics.
Whether you’re a policy professional, legal analyst, compliance officer, or just national security curious—this episode will leave you smarter than when you pressed play.
Like, share, and subscribe for more high-impact national security briefings every week.
Follow on social media and visit our merch store! 
 
Everything is National Security
 
About the Host: Jerry Fowler
Jerry Fowler is an attorney and policy professional specializing in the intersection of business, law, and national security. He works with companies and their counsel to meet and exceed compliance obligations while navigating the complex national security regulatory landscape.
Jerry leads the CFIUS and National Security practice at a global risk consultancy where he applies his experience in export controls, sanctions, and U.S. national security regulatory regimes to advise clients on evaluating and mitigating global trade risk.
His experience spans over a decade across many capacities in state and federal government, including as a West Virginia Assistant Attorney General, federal attorney, and as a contract member of the U.S. Department of Defense’s CFIUS team. He also serves in the Army National Guard as a Judge Advocate (Army lawyer).
He received his Master of Laws degree in National Security and Cybersecurity Law from the George Washington University Law School and his Juris Doctor degree from the West Virginia University College of Law. He also obtained his Master of Business Administration degree at the University of Florida, Warrington College of Business and his Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Concord University. He holds an Artificial Intelligence Governance Professional (AIGP) certification and is licensed to practice law in the District of Columbia and West Virginia.
Disclaimers:The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any government agency, the U.S. military, or any employer, organization, or entity with which we are affiliated.
Mention of any company, product, or service in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Any references are for informational purposes only. 
This podcast does not disclose any classified, proprietary, or confidential information. Discussions are based on publicly available information and personal expertise.

Episode 0005 - Sanctioned: The Hidden Economy of Sanctions Evasion

Imagine a shadowy fleet of oil tankers sailing through the night—GPS disabled, ownership disguised, cargo concealed. Not pirates—but sanctioned states like Russia, Iran, and North Korea, evading U.S. sanctions to fund war, weapons, and influence.
That’s not a conspiracy theory. It’s happening now.
In this episode of Midweek Sitrep, host Jerry Fowler breaks down how sanctioned regimes are getting around U.S. and allied restrictions, what enforcement really looks like, and why private companies are increasingly caught in the crossfire.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
How sanctions work—and how the U.S. enforces them globally
The tactics Russia, Iran, and North Korea use to move money, oil, weapons, and crypto
What secondary sanctions are—and why U.S. allies are under pressure
How major companies have been caught evading sanctions
What the Trump administration is doing differently—and why enforcement is getting faster, broader, and more political
As always, Jerry also covers the week’s national security developments that should be on your radar in the world of business, compliance, and geopolitics.
Whether you’re in law, finance, national security, or international trade—this episode is essential listening.
Listen now and stay ahead of the threats.
Like, share, and subscribe for more high-impact national security briefings every week.
Follow on social media and visit our merch store! 
 
Everything is National Security
 
About the Host: Jerry Fowler
Jerry Fowler is an attorney and policy professional specializing in the intersection of business, law, and national security. He works with companies and their counsel to meet and exceed compliance obligations while navigating the complex national security regulatory landscape.
Jerry leads the CFIUS and National Security practice at a global risk consultancy where he applies his experience in export controls, sanctions, and U.S. national security regulatory regimes to advise clients on evaluating and mitigating global trade risk.
His experience spans over a decade across many capacities in state and federal government, including as a West Virginia Assistant Attorney General, federal attorney, and as a contract member of the U.S. Department of Defense’s CFIUS team. He also serves in the Army National Guard as a Judge Advocate (Army lawyer).
He received his Master of Laws degree in National Security and Cybersecurity Law from the George Washington University Law School and his Juris Doctor degree from the West Virginia University College of Law. He also obtained his Master of Business Administration degree at the University of Florida, Warrington College of Business and his Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Concord University. He holds an Artificial Intelligence Governance Professional (AIGP) certification and is licensed to practice law in the District of Columbia and West Virginia.
Disclaimers:The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any government agency, the U.S. military, or any employer, organization, or entity with which we are affiliated.
Mention of any company, product, or service in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Any references are for informational purposes only. 
This podcast does not disclose any classified, proprietary, or confidential information. Discussions are based on publicly available information and personal expertise.

Episode 0004 - The AI Arms Race: Can the U.S. Keep Its Tech Out of the Wrong Hands?

Imagine the world’s most advanced AI chips—designed to power cutting-edge innovations—quietly slipping past U.S. export controls, ending up in places they were never supposed to go. Not through high-tech hacking or espionage, but through a network of shell companies, supply chain loopholes, and international black markets.
That’s exactly what’s happening.
In this episode of Midweek Sitrep, host Jerry Fowler unpacks how fraudsters orchestrated a $390 million scheme to smuggle AI hardware, why U.S. export controls aren’t airtight, and what this means for businesses, national security, and the future of AI dominance.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
How U.S. export controls work—and why they struggle to keep AI tech secure
The tactics smugglers use to reroute restricted chips across borders
Why businesses face serious compliance risks (and how to avoid multi-million dollar fines)
What’s next—will enforcement actions increase under the Trump Administration?
As always, Jerry covers this week’s top national security stories you need to know.
This episode doesn’t just explain the problem—it explores the consequences. If you work in business, AI, national security, export controls, compliance, or tech policy, this is a must-listen to understand the future of AI regulations and global competition.
The AI arms race isn’t just about innovation—it’s about control.
Listen now and stay ahead of the threats.
Like, share, and subscribe for more high-impact national security briefings every week.
Follow on social media and visit our merch store! 
 
Everything is National Security
 
About the Host: Jerry Fowler
Jerry Fowler is an attorney and policy professional specializing in the intersection of business, law, and national security. He works with companies and their counsel to meet and exceed compliance obligations while navigating the complex national security regulatory landscape.
Jerry leads the CFIUS and National Security practice at a global risk consultancy where he applies his experience in export controls, sanctions, and U.S. national security regulatory regimes to advise clients on evaluating and mitigating global trade risk.
His experience spans over a decade across many capacities in state and federal government, including as a West Virginia Assistant Attorney General, federal attorney, and as a contract member of the U.S. Department of Defense’s CFIUS team. He also serves in the Army National Guard as a Judge Advocate (Army lawyer).
He received his Master of Laws degree in National Security and Cybersecurity Law from the George Washington University Law School and his Juris Doctor degree from the West Virginia University College of Law. He also obtained his Master of Business Administration degree at the University of Florida, Warrington College of Business and his Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Concord University. He holds an Artificial Intelligence Governance Professional (AIGP) certification and is licensed to practice law in the District of Columbia and West Virginia.
Disclaimers:The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any government agency, the U.S. military, or any employer, organization, or entity with which we are affiliated.
Mention of any company, product, or service in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Any references are for informational purposes only. 
This podcast does not disclose any classified, proprietary, or confidential information. Discussions are based on publicly available information and personal expertise.