254: Iran’s Criminal Playbook. Sam Cooper on Cartels, Diaspora Networks, and Strategic Evasion

Investigative journalist Sam Cooper returns to the One CA Podcast to expose how Iran weaponizes criminality to advance foreign policy goals. From Hezbollah’s business affairs unit to fentanyl super-labs in Canada, Cooper traces the global footprint of Iranian-linked networks—intertwined with Chinese triads, Mexican cartels, and diaspora businessmen operating across North America.In this gripping episode, we explore:​How underground banking and hawala systems fund terror proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas​The role of vape shops, car exports, and currency exchanges in laundering money​Why Canada’s outdated laws and Charter protections hinder transnational crime enforcement​DEA wiretaps revealing command-and-control links between Latin America and Canadian cities​The growing civil society push for reform—and the political resistance it facesCooper also shares firsthand insights into speaking engagements, commercial sector concerns, and the fragile hope for legal modernization in Canada. One CA Podcast is a production of the Civil Affairs Association, featuring voices from military, diplomatic, and development communities working at the human level of global engagement.📨 Contact us at [email protected]🌐 Learn more at civilaffairsassoc.org🎧 Ranked Top 10 Foreign Policy Podcast by Feedspot: See the list🎵 Music by Relax Café: Sunny Jazz Cafe & Bossa NovaSam Cooper posts on Iran criminality:https://samcooper.substack.com/p/iranian-criminal-networks-and-canadashttps://samcooper.substack.com/p/from-guangdong-peasant-to-funderhttps://samcooper.substack.comAddition: Whale Hunter article on Iran’s shadow fleet: https://whalehunting.projectbrazen.com/when-irans-invisible-fleet-lit-up-the-map/?ref=whale-hunting-newsletter#HumanDomain #IrregularWarfare #CivilAffairs #StrategicCoercion #TransnationalCrime #FentanylCrisis #InformationWarfare #SOFTraining #DefenseInnovation #OneCAPodcast

In this episode of One CA Podcast, LTC Brian Hancock sits down with Sergeant First Class Chase Penner—Information Operations planner at USAREUR-AF and former PSYOP Team Sergeant—to explore the art and science of military deception. From ambiguity techniques to tactical deception, SFC Penner's decision-making is from Moldova. With a background in strategic communication, Penner offers a rare look into the cognitive domain of modern warfare.Whether you're a Civil Affairs operator, strategic planner, or just curious about the "last three feet" of U.S. foreign relations, this episode delivers actionable lessons on influence, deception, and the human terrain.📌 Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of the presenters and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the United States Army or Department of Defense.🔗 Learn more at civilaffairsassoc.org📧 Contact us: [email protected]🏆 Ranked Top 10 Foreign Policy Podcast by Feedspot🎵 Music Credit: Special Thanks to OriginalSoundtracks for the sample of Happy Thanksgiving Day. Retrieved from: https://youtu.be/vJPDcL49578?si=-c2N_xkOc8WjfscS#PsychologicalOperations #MilitaryDeception #CivilAffairs #IrregularWarfare #InformationWarfare #HumanDomain #SOFTraining #DefenseInnovation #USAREURAF #USASOC #StrategicInfluence #TacticalPsychology #MissionPreparation#USASOC #SOCOM #SWCS #TRADOC #JKO #USAREURAF #CivilAffairsAssociation #PSYOPRegiment #353CACOM #2POG #20SFG #MSNationalGuard #IrregularWarfareCenter #NDU #OUSDIS #SpecialOperationsCommand #JointForceDevelopment #ArmyIO #SOFX

Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Joel Rubin joins host Jack Gaines to unpack the gritty realities of legislative diplomacy—from Benghazi testimony to budget battles. Rubin shares hard-won lessons on navigating Congress, shaping foreign policy, and building political will inside the State Department. This episode explores how political space becomes policy—and why human capital may be the missing link in America’s foreign affairs strategy.One CA is a product of the Civil Affairs Association and brings in people who are current or former military, diplomats, development officers, and field agents to discuss their experiences on the ground with a partner nation's people and leadership. We aim to inspire anyone interested in working in the "last three feet" of U.S. foreign relations.📨 To contact the show, email us at [email protected], or visit the Civil Affairs Association website: www.civilaffairsassoc.org🏆 Feedspot ranked One CA Podcast among the Top 10 Foreign Policy Podcasts:https://podcast.feedspot.com/foreign_policy_podcasts🎶 Music link: The Art of the Possible: Joel Rubin on Turning Political Space into Policy#ForeignPolicy #Diplomacy#Geopolitics#Congress#StateDepartment#InternationalRelations#PublicDiplomacy#GlobalSecurity#CivilAffairs#LegislativeAffairs#PoliticalStrategy#HumanCapital#PeaceCorps#ForeignAid#GlobalEngagement#PoliticalWill#InternationalDevelopment#PolicyMaking#GovernmentRelations#Benghazi#HarvardKennedySchool #GeorgetownSFS #JohnsHopkinsSAIS #ColumbiaSIPA #StanfordFSI #TuftsFletcherSchool #AmericanUniversitySIS #YaleJacksonSchool #OxfordPolitics #LSEIR #UCSDGPI #MITSecurityStudies #PrincetonSPIA #TexasA&MBushSchool #GWU_Elliott #SchillerInternationalUniversity #CarnegieEndowment #CSIS #BrookingsInstitution #AtlanticCouncil #USIP #WilsonCenter #CFR #HeritageFoundation #RANDCorporation #ChathamHouse #FriedrichEbertStiftung #MercyCorps #USAID #StateDept #PeaceCorps #UNDP #WorldBank #IFPRI #IRIglobal #NDI #OpenSocietyFoundations #EarthInstitute #Devex #InterActionOrg #GlobalAffairsCanada #DFIDUK #GIZGerman

In this episode of the One CA Podcast, host Danny Josephspeaks with Major Jared Goff, a Civil Affairs officer whose civilian background in emergency management brings a rare planning perspective to military operations. From managing displaced people during a crisis tointegrating civilian frameworks into doctrinal planning, Major Goff shares what it means to be a “unicorn in the AO”—a planner who bridges institutional divides and redefines mission success.---One CA is a product of the Civil Affairs Association and brings in people who are current or former military, diplomats, development officers, and field agents to discuss their experiences on the ground with a partner nation's people and leadership. We aim to inspire anyone interested inworking in the "last three feet" of U.S. foreign relations.To contact the show, email us at [email protected],or visit the Civil Affairs Association website at www.civilaffairsassoc.org.---🎧 Feedspot, the podcastindustry ranking system, rated One CA Podcast as one of the top 10 shows onforeign policy. Check it out at: Feedspot ForeignPolicy Rankings---🎶 Special thanks to CaféRelax Jazz Music for the sample of Smooth Bossa Nova Jazz in Coffee ShopAmbience. Retrieved from: YouTube LiveStream---#CivilAffairs #MilitaryPlanning #EmergencyManagement#ForeignPolicy #IDPResponse #InteragencyOps #GlobalSecurity #StrategicInfluence#MilitaryPodcast #TopPodcast #FeedspotTop10 #OneCAPodcast #DisasterResponse#MilitaryInnovation #InternationalRelations #USForeignAffairs #Geopolitics#PodcastRecommendations #DefensePolicy #ResilienceOps #OneCAPodcast #FEMA #UN_OCHA #CSIS #USAWC#DecisivePointPodcast #ForeignPodicy #CrookedMedia #FareedZakariaGPS#DSRNetwork #ArmyWarCollege #TRADOC #ModernWarInstitute #PinelandUnderground#IndigenousApproach #BreakingDoctrine #OperationalArch #LeaderUpPodcast#NCOJournal #SOSHPodcast #StrategicStudiesInstitute #WarRoomPodcast#FoundationForDefenseOfDemocracies #CNNPolitics #FeedspotTop10

🎙️ In this episode, One CA Podcast welcomes Max Lesser from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) to unpack the evolving landscape of Iranian online influence. From sock puppet accounts and Telegram coordination to decentralized psyops and hybrid cyber operations, Max offers a sobering look at how Tehran weaponizes digital platforms to shape global narratives, target dissidents, and crowdsource aggression.We explore FDD’s recent findings on Iranian impersonation networks, domestic propaganda amplification, and the strategic use of misinformation during high-stakes geopolitical moments—including the Gaza war protests and U.S. election cycles. Max also discusses the blurred lines between hacktivism and state-sponsored cyber threats, and how decentralized influence operations allow anyone to become a digital combatant.🧠 Key Topics• Iranian disinformation tactics and impersonation campaigns• Telegram as a coordination tool for influence ops• Crowdsourced psyops and fake account generation• Domestic propaganda and opportunistic misinformation• Hybrid cyber threats targeting U.S. infrastructure• Influence operations during election cycles• FDD’s investigative methodology and threat analysis📌 Links & Resources• Max Lesser at FDD• FDD Report: Iranian Network Impersonating Israelis• USA Today: Iran Targets U.S. Protesters• FDD: Iranian Group Crowdfunding for Trump’s Assassination🎧 Listen & SubscribeAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever strategic minds tune in.---One CA is a product of the Civil Affairs Association andbrings in people who are current or former military, diplomats, developmentofficers, and field agents to discuss their experiences on the ground with apartner nation's people and leadership.We aim to inspire anyone interested in working in the "lastthree feet" of U.S. foreign relations.  To contact the show, email us at [email protected], orlook us up on the Civil Affairs Association website atwww.civilaffairsassoc.org  ---Feedspot, the podcast industry ranking system, rated One CAPodcast as one of the top 10 shows on foreign policy. Check it out at:https://podcast.feedspot.com/foreign_policy_podcasts/--- Special Thanks to Jarl Flamar for a sample of Medusa,Agfay Live Session. Retrieved from: https://youtu.be/epniyt6IA_E?feature=shared---#IranianInfluenceOps, #DisinformationCampaigns,#HybridThreats, #CyberPsyops, #DigitalPropaganda,#InfoOps, #InfluenceOperations, #SockPuppetAccounts,#CrowdsourcedDisinfo, #TelegramOps, #CyberThreatIntel,#AIInfluenceOps, #ElectionInterference, #InauthenticBehavior, #SocialBotnets, #DeepfakeThreats,#ForeignInfluence, #NarrativeWarfare, #OnlineManipulation, #CyberSovereignty, Organization,HashtagFoundation for Defense of Democracies,#FDD,#FDDCCTI,#CyberInfluenceOpsAtlantic Council – DFRLab,#DFRLab,#IraniansOnSocialMedia,#InfluenceOpsTrackerStanford Internet Observatory,#SIO,#CoordinatedInauthenticBehavior,#DigitalManipulationCitizen Lab,#DigitalTransnationalRepression,#IranSurveillance,#CyberRepressionFreedom House,#FreedomOnTheNet,#InternetFreedom,#DigitalAuthoritarianismBrookings Institution – Middle East Policy,#IranPolicy,#DigitalAuthoritarianism,#CyberStatecraftCarnegie Endowment – Cyber Policy Initiative,#CyberPolicy,#ForeignInfluenceOps,#DigitalSovereigntyRAND Corporation,#OpenSourceIntel,#SocialMediaAnalysis,#HybridThreatsIndiana University – OSoMe,#BotDetection,#SockPuppetNetworks,#DisinfoTrackerHarvard Belfer Center,#CyberThreats,#ElectionSecurity,#NarrativeWarfareAccess Now,#InternetShutdowns,#DigitalRights,#IranCensorshipThe New Global Order,#GeopoliticalInfluence,#HybridWarfareMonitor,#CrowdsourcedThreats

Host: LTC Brian HancockGuests: COL Delmayca “Didi” Kramer & LTC Liz MartinezDuration: ~45 minutesProduced by: Civil Affairs AssociationRated Top 10 Foreign Policy Podcast by Feedspothttps://podcast.feedspot.com/foreign_policy_podcastsIn this episode, LTC Brian Hancock sits down with COL Delmayca Kramer and LTC Liz Martinez to explore the evolving landscape of promotion boards and the innovative Talent Management Board initiative at USACAPOC(A). From merit-based advancement to mentorship pipelines, the conversation dives deep into how the Army is adapting its personnel strategy to recognize and elevate top performers. COL Kramer shares her philosophy on excellence, while LTC Martinez discusses structural shifts and opportunities for Civil Affairs Soldiers in emerging formations like the Theater Information Advantage Detachments (TIADs).Whether you're a junior officer, senior leader, or career manager, this episode offers practical insights into how talent is identified, nurtured, and positioned for strategic impact.If you're a Lieutenant Colonel interested in participating in the USACAPOC(A) Talent Management Board, please email your Baseball Card (BBC) using the following format:Subject Line Naming Convention:Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial., Rank, Primary Branch/AOC(e.g., POWELL, MAC K., COL CA)Include the following POCs on your email:CPT Rickardo Howell: [email protected] Alishia Griffin: [email protected] Norton (CIV): [email protected] submissions may still be accepted through mid-September. The board convenes at the end of October.---- To visit the Civil Affairs Association: www.civilaffairsassoc.org-To contact the show: [email protected] ---Feedspot, the podcast industry ranking system, rated One CA Podcast as one of the top 10 shows on foreign policy. Check it out at:https://podcast.feedspot.com/foreign_policy_podcasts/--- Special Thanks to artist Shivaree for the song "Good Night Moon" from the album "I oughtta Give You a Shot in the Head."#MilitaryLeadership #ArmyTalentManagement #CivilAffairs #USACAPOC #LeadershipDevelopment #PromotionBoard #TalentBoard #MilitaryPodcast #DefenseInnovation #PeopleFirst #StrategicLeadership #NewPodcastAlert #PodcastForChange #VeteranVoices #MilitaryCareers #ArmyStrong #ProfessionalMilitaryEducation #PodcastHost #MilitaryMentorship #OperationalExcellence

In this episode of the One CA Podcast, host Danny Joseph sits down with Natacha Ciezki, a foreign affairs consultant and Civil Affairs officer, to explore the critical role of cultural understanding in African engagements. Drawing from her extensive experience across Sub-Saharan Africa, Natacha shares insights on how local context, historical nuance, and relationship-building shape effective foreign policy and civil affairs operations. Whether you're a practitioner, policymaker, or curious listener, this conversation offers a compelling look at why cultural fluency isn’t just a soft skill—it’s a strategic necessity---One CA is a product of the Civil Affairs Association and brings in people who are current or former military, diplomats, development officers, and field agents to discuss their experiences on the ground with a partner nation's people and leadership.We aim to inspire anyone interested in working in the "last three feet" of U.S. foreign relations. To contact the show, email us at [email protected], or look us up on the Civil Affairs Association website at www.civilaffairsassoc.org  ---Feedspot, the podcast industry ranking system, rated One CA Podcast as one of the top 10 shows on foreign policy. Check it out at: https://podcast.feedspot.com/foreign_policy_podcasts/--- Special Thanks to Ekler for the sample of Polo and Pan from the album Canopee. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5IruTV-LGQ&list=RDf5IruTV-LGQ&start_radio=1---#africanengagements #civilaffairs #foreignpolicy #strategiccommunication #culturalintelligence #subSaharanAfrica #OneCAPodcast #USStateDepartment #localcontextmatters #publicdiplomacy #crossculturalstrategy #natachaciezki #dannyjoseph #militarydiplomacy #softpower #foreignaffairsofficer #geopolitics #relationshipbuilding #fieldinsights #globalstrategy #ECOWAS

What does it take to break into foreign policy—and thrive in the “last three feet” of U.S. diplomacy? In this episode, we sit down with Vasu Vaitla, a Georgetown adjunct-associate professor whose career spans the U.S. Department of State, the United Nations, NGO Initiatives of Change, and the U.S. Air Force.Vasu shares practical advice for students and professionals seeking careers in foreign affairs, whether through government, NGOs, or multinational organizations. From classroom insights to field-tested strategies, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to serve at the intersection of policy, people, and purpose.🔗 Learn more about Vasu Vaitla: Georgetown Faculty Profile🎶 Featuring a sample of Georgetown’s fight song—drums courtesy of the Chicago Bears.One CA is a product of the Civil Affairs Association, spotlighting voices from the frontlines of diplomacy, development, and defense. Feedspot ranks us among the top 10 foreign policy podcasts—see why at Feedspot’s Foreign Policy Rankings.📬 Contact the show: [email protected]🌐 Visit us: civilaffairsassoc.orgAspiring to serve in the “last three feet” of diplomacy? 🎙️ In this episode of #OneCAPodcast, Georgetown’s Vasu Vaitla shares actionable advice for launching a career in foreign policy—from the classroom to the field. Whether you're eyeing the #ForeignService, NGOs, or multilateral organizations, this is your roadmap to impact.#PublicDiplomacy #CivilAffairs #ForeignPolicyCareers #GeorgetownUniversity #USStateDepartment #InternationalRelations #DiplomacyMatters #MentorshipInAction #GlobalLeadership #FeedspotTop10 #CareerPathways #ForeignAffairs #NationalSecurity #DevelopmentDiplomacy #WomenInForeignPolicy #NextGenDiplomats #CFR #AFSA #WFPG #PDCA #AAD #FPAOrganization,HashtagOne CA Podcast,#OneCAPodcast,#LastThreeFeet,#CivilAffairsGeorgetown University,#GeorgetownUniversity,#ForeignPolicyCareers,#NextGenDiplomatsU.S. Department of State,#USStateDepartment,#ForeignService,#PublicDiplomacyUnited Nations,#UNCareers,#GlobalLeadership,#MultilateralEngagementInitiatives of Change,#InitiativesOfChange,#Peacebuilding,#CivicTrustU.S. Air Force,#USAirForce,#NationalSecurity,#DefenseDiplomacyCouncil on Foreign Relations (CFR),#CFR,#ForeignAffairs,#GlobalPolicyAmerican Foreign Service Association (AFSA),#AFSA,#ForeignServiceLife,#DiplomacyMattersWomen’s Foreign Policy Group (WFPG),#WFPG,#WomenInForeignPolicy,#MentorshipInActionPublic Diplomacy Council of America (PDCA),#PDCA,#PublicDiplomacy,#CareerPathwaysAssociation of American Diplomats (AAD),#AAD,#DiplomaticCareers,#ForeignPolicyVoicesForeign Policy Association (FPA),#FPA,#InternationalRelations,#GlobalEngagementFeedspot,#FeedspotTop10,#ForeignPolicyPodcast,#PodcastRankingsAcademic & NGO Networks,#CareerInForeignPolicy,#DevelopmentDiplomacy,#GlobalCareers

In this episode of the One CA Podcast, host Danny Joseph sits down with Navy EOD Commander Brad Penely to explore the evolving face of warfare—from mine countermeasures in the Strait of Hormuz to cruise missile defense in the Red Sea and joint ops in South America. Brad shares firsthand insights from Syria, Iran, and beyond, while unpacking the future of small-unit operations, drone warfare, and the power of disruptive thinking.But this isn’t just about tactics. Brad dives deep into the emotional and spiritual dimensions of leadership, offering hard-won advice on resilience, innovation, and the kind of mindset that thrives under pressure. From writing white papers that change doctrine to taking cold showers that build grit, this episode is a masterclass in modern warfighting and personal growth.🔗 Learn more about FP21: https://www.fp21.org🎧 Visit the show page: civilaffairsassociation.com/podcast📨 Contact us: [email protected]🏆 Ranked Top 10 Foreign Policy Podcast by Feedspot: Check it out🎵 Music by TC Dickinson Ft. Carrera – Django (Hip Hop vs Western Instrumental): https://youtu.be/O2Cz16Kk3jA?si=pDy_knvnK8NBF3vK

🎧 Welcome to the Once CA Podcast.In this episode, host Assad Raza welcomes Jim Hake, founder of Spirit of America, a nonprofit that directly supports overseas U.S. Military, Diplomatic, and Development efforts. Hake shares how his organization bridges critical gaps in foreign assistance—delivering rapid, locally tailored support that helps advance U.S. foreign policy goals in complex environments.From frontline partnerships in Ukraine and West Africa to strategic engagement in the Indo-Pacific, Hake explains how Spirit of America works alongside Civil Affairs teams and other U.S. personnel to build trust, deliver impact, and reinforce democratic values.One CA is a production of the Civil Affairs Association, featuring voices from the field—military, diplomatic, development, and intelligence professionals—who operate in the “last three feet” of U.S. foreign relations. Our goal is to inform, inspire, and elevate the role of Civil Affairs in global engagement.🔗 Learn more about Jim Hake and Spirit of America: spiritofamerica.org📩 Contact the show: [email protected]🌐 Visit: civilaffairsassoc.org🏆 Ranked Top 10 Foreign Policy Podcast by Feedspot: See the list🎵 Music credit: Relaxing Rhythms CH, Album 92 Sing Song Swing Jazz: Twist Till Your Hips Hurt YouTube link---Organization,HashtagSpirit of America,#SpiritOfAmerica,#SupportOurTroops,#CivilAffairsSupportCivil Affairs Association,#CivilAffairs,#OneCAPodcast,#LastThreeFeetUSAID,#USAID,#ForeignAssistance,#DevelopmentDiplomacyU.S. Department of State,#Diplomacy,#USForeignPolicy,#DemocracySupportU.S. Army Civil Affairs,#CivilAffairsOps,#MilitarySupport,#StrategicEngagementAtlantic Council,#FrontlineDemocracy,#UkraineSupport,#WestAfricaSecurityBrookings Institution,#ForeignAid,#GlobalEngagement,#IndoPacificStrategyCarnegie Endowment,#CivilMilitaryRelations,#HumanitarianAssistance,#ConflictPreventionFreedom House,#DemocracyPromotion,#HumanRightsSupport,#UkraineSolidarityCenter for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS),#CSISLive,#GlobalSecurity,#DevelopmentMattersHarvard Belfer Center,#BelferCenter,#NationalSecurity,#CivicActionStanford Internet Observatory,#DigitalDemocracy,#CivicTech,#InformationOpsGlobal Citizen,#HumanitarianSupport,#NGOImpact,#HashtagActivismBosch Stiftung (West Africa),#LocalNGOs,#WestAfricaPeace,#CommunityResilienceUkrainian Civil Society Groups,#StandWithUkraine,#StopRussianAggression,#UkraineNGOs