Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler
Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler is your biweekly briefing on what’s happening in the world of national security—decoded for everyday listeners. From classified documents and sanctions to cyberattacks, foreign interference, and spycraft, Jerry breaks down the headlines, the history, and the hidden forces shaping global power today. Whether it’s a presidential executive order, a new war in a far-off region, or a tech ban making waves in Washington, Jerry gives you the background and context to actually understand what’s going on—and why it matters. Midweek Sitrep doesn’t just deliver the news—it makes sense of it. Designed for curious minds, students, and new voices entering the national security world, each episode strips away the jargon and brings clarity to the complexity. If you’ve ever heard a story about sanctions, surveillance, or secret operations and thought, “Wait—what does that actually mean?”—this is your podcast. New episodes drop on Wednesdays.
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Episodes
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
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.
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
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.
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
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.