Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler

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.

Episode 0003 – Cyberwarfare: Welcome to the Fight

Imagine a cyberattack that doesn’t crash your systems or announce itself with red flashing alerts. Instead, it’s quiet—like a slow, invisible bleed. Hackers steal credentials, monitor networks, and compromise entire supply chains without anyone noticing until it’s too late. Now, imagine that these hackers aren’t just criminals working for profit, but state-sponsored operatives, executing cyberwarfare on behalf of foreign governments.
That’s exactly what’s happening. In this episode of Midweek Sitrep, host Jerry Fowler unpacks the DOJ’s explosive indictment of I-Soon, a Chinese hacking-for-hire firm that spent a decade infiltrating U.S. agencies, private companies, and pro-democracy activists—all while masquerading as a legitimate cybersecurity company.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
How foreign governments outsource cyberattacks to “private” firms for deniability
Why businesses, universities, and individuals are now prime cyber warfare targets
The real impact of U.S. indictments and sanctions—do they actually stop hackers?
How China’s cyber operations extend beyond espionage into economic warfare
Critical cybersecurity steps you must take today to protect your data, accounts, and company
This episode doesn’t just explain the threats—it gives you practical, actionable steps to protect yourself and your business. Whether you’re an executive, a cybersecurity professional, or just someone who wants to keep their personal data safe, these are steps you can implement right now.
As always, Jerry covers this week’s top national security stories you need to know.
If you work in national security, cybersecurity, compliance, AI, or business risk management, this episode is a must-listen.
Cyberwarfare isn’t coming—it’s already here. And whether you realize it or not, you’re in this fight.
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 0002 - Bulk Sensitive Data Rule: How the U.S. is Locking Down Your Data

Imagine someone quietly copying everything inside your personal safe—your financial records, medical history, even your biometric data—and selling it to the highest bidder. Now, imagine that foreign adversaries are doing the same thing, but at scale, using bulk data for espionage, AI-driven cyber attacks, and blackmail.
That’s why the U.S. Department of Justice has rolled out the Bulk Sensitive Data Rule, a sweeping new rule set to take effect this April. In this episode of Midweek Sitrep, host Jerry Fowler breaks it all down:
What this rule actually does and why it’s different from privacy laws like HIPAA and the CCPA.
The six countries targeted (China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Venezuela, Cuba) and what this means for businesses, cloud providers, and AI companies.
Real-world threats: How stolen data has already fueled Chinese military cyber ops, North Korean IT fraud schemes, and the Equifax hack.
What businesses need to do to avoid DOJ fines, penalties, and criminal liability.
Trump’s America First Strategy:Why this Biden-era rule isn’t going away—and how Trump will likely make it even tougher.
Plus, Jerry puts the following top national security stories on your radar:
Trump’s suspension of military aid to Ukraine after a tense Oval Office meeting with Zelensky.
U.S. Cyber Command halting offensive cyber operations against Russia—and what that means for geopolitical tensions.
China’s Two Sessions meeting and what it signals for AI and military policy.
TSMC’s massive $100 billion U.S. semiconductor investment and how it fits into America’s push for tech dominance.
A major congressional update on China’s unfair trade practices—and how tariffs, sanctions, and economic policies are shifting under Trump.
If you work in data, AI, cybersecurity, compliance, or national security, this episode is a must-listen. The government is cracking down—and businesses that aren’t paying attention will pay the price.
Listen now and stay ahead of the curve.
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 0001 - America First Investment Policy

In this episode of Midweek Sitrep, Jerry Fowler breaks down President Trump’s America First Investment Policy, a major shift in how the U.S. handles foreign investment and national security risks.
This new directive aims to fast-track investments from allied nations while tightening restrictions on adversarial countries—especially China. Jerry explores:
How the current Trump administration’s approach differs from Biden’s and Trump’s first term.
The expanded role of CFIUS in blocking high-risk investments.
Why outbound U.S. investments in China could face new restrictions.
What these changes mean for businesses, compliance professionals, and investors.
If you’re in business, finance, law, or national security, this policy shift could reshape how you operate. Tune in for a clear, concise analysis of what’s changing, what it means, and how to prepare.
Listen now to stay ahead of the curve!
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.