In this episode of Code and Country, Ian L. Paterson speaks with Craig Newmark, Craigslist founder and philanthropist, about his $200 million commitment to U.S. cybersecurity. Craig outlines his vision for "cyber civil defense"—a World War II-style mobilization where every American helps protect against nation-state threats like China's Salt Typhoon and Volt Typhoon campaigns targeting critical infrastructure. The discussion covers urgent vulnerabilities in small water systems, the Cyber Resilience Corps, and initiatives like PauseTakeNine.org. This episode offers security leaders and policymakers a roadmap for collective defense against today's cyber threats.
In this episode of Code and Country, Michael Daniel, President and CEO of the Cyber Threat Alliance and former White House Cybersecurity Coordinator, shares lessons from the frontlines of national cyber policy.
From shaping early government cyber budgets to confronting incidents like the Sony hack and OPM breach, Daniel reflects on how U.S. policy thinking matured in real time.
He outlines the evolution of ransomware, structural flaws in how cybersecurity risk is distributed, and why the future of cyber resilience depends on smarter collaboration between public and private actors.
Essential insights for CISOs, systems architects, and IT leaders facing today’s complex threat landscape.
In this episode of Code and Country, Ian Paterson continues his conversation with Dmitri Alperovitch, CrowdStrike co-founder, Silverado Policy Accelerator executive chairman, and author of World on the Brink. Dmitri explains how China’s Volt Typhoon campaign marks a shift from espionage to battlefield preparation by infiltrating water utilities, small telecom providers, and local power grids.
The discussion explores why Taiwan has become the central flashpoint in U.S.-China competition, and how cyber could shape the opening moves of a conflict. From disrupting mobilization to targeting sustainment systems like the F-35’s ODIN platform, cyber’s impact on logistics and readiness could prove decisive.
With candid insights on deterrence, logistics, and overlooked vulnerabilities in small utilities, this episode gives CISOs, IT leaders, and national security executives a front-row seat to the strategies shaping the future of nation-state cyber conflict.
In this episode of Code and Country, Ian Paterson sits down with Dmitri Alperovitch, CrowdStrike co-founder, Silverado Policy Accelerator executive chairman, and author of World on the Brink.
Dmitri shares his journey from teenage encryption entrepreneur to leading some of the most consequential cyber investigations in history, including Operation Aurora. He discusses the evolution of cyber threats from spam to state-backed espionage, China’s Volt Typhoon campaign, and why Taiwan may be the “new Berlin” in a looming geopolitical standoff.
With candid insights on deterrence, offensive cyber operations, and the role of private companies on the front lines, this conversation offers CISOs, IT leaders, and security architects a front-row seat to the strategies shaping national security in the 21st century.
Ollie Whitehouse, CTO of the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), joins Code and Country to unpack what it really takes to secure a nation in the age of AI, ransomware, and quantum threats. Drawing from three decades of experience across public and private sectors, Whitehouse offers a candid assessment of the broken cybersecurity market, why the incentives are misaligned, and what meaningful defense should look like. He explores how governments and enterprises can better collaborate, the urgent need to catalog cryptographic dependencies, and why resilience must be built into business, not bolted on. Essential listening for CISOs, IT leaders, and architects navigating the new frontier of national-scale cyber defense.
Katie Moussouris, founder and CEO of Luta Security, joins Code and Country to trace her path from MIT to pioneering vulnerability disclosure and launching “Hack the Pentagon.” She dives deep into the economics of the exploit market, the dangers of vulnerability disclosure laws, and how AI is shifting the dynamics of cybersecurity offense and defense. Katie also shares first-hand stories from her time shaping Microsoft's bug bounty program and working with the Pentagon. A must-listen for CISOs, IT leaders, and architects navigating the geopolitics of cyber risk.
In this episode of Code and Country, host Ian Paterson is joined by Robert Young Pelton, renowned war correspondent and author of Licensed to Kill and The World's Most Dangerous Places. Pelton shares firsthand accounts from his time embedded with the Taliban, Special Forces in Afghanistan, and rebel groups in Chechnya. He discusses the evolution of cyber warfare, the dark intersections of state and non-state actors in financial fraud, and how cyber tactics mirror battlefield strategy.
Pelton also explores the chilling implications of compromised digital hygiene, from sat phone targeting to political hacks. A must-listen for CISOs, IT leaders, and architects concerned about the global cyber threat landscape.
What do spies, skateboarders, and startups have in common? Security.
In this episode of Code and Country, former CSIS technical ops lead Andrew Amaro shares how his background in physical infiltration and cyber operations shaped his approach to enterprise security.
We cover why insider threats remain the most overlooked risk, how physical access is still a cyber problem, and why org charts are failing security leaders.
Andrew also explains how intelligence tactics can improve security posture, and why collaboration between cyber, physical, and executive teams isn’t optional anymore.
If you’re thinking about supply chain risk, insider threats, or how to align security with business growth, this episode is for you.
In this special episode of Code and Country, we bring together insights from some of the world’s foremost experts in cybersecurity, intelligence, law, and defense.
Built around the theme of geopolitics and digital conflict, this compilation traces how nation-state tensions, ransomware groups, and AI threats are converging to reshape the cyber battlefield. Civilian infrastructure is now a target. Compliance is no longer enough. The frontline has shifted from borders to networks.
Some of the world’s foremost cyber experts from the RCMP, NSA, NATO, and the private sector reveal what it takes to stay ahead of persistent, coordinated attacks. The episode covers real-time disruption campaigns, threat attribution, legal blind spots, and the rising pressure on CISOs and IT leaders to build true resilience.
Whether you’re defending critical infrastructure or leading cyber strategy in a global enterprise, this is a sharp, tactical briefing for those operating at the intersection of cybersecurity and geopolitics. Listen now to understand the new frontline.
Nation-states don’t steal data, they wage war.
In this episode of Code and Country, former US Intelligence Community CIO, CISO at Bank of America, and Chief Security Officer at Bridgewater Associates, Patrick Gorman exposes how cyber warfare threatens North America’s federal systems, higher education, BFSI, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors.
Gorman reveals:
If you defend federal agencies, university networks, financial systems, hospitals, or supply chains, this episode delivers the preventative cybersecurity strategies you need.
Listen now and fortify your critical infrastructure before the next attack hits.
What does it take to defend 32 nations across five domains in an era of AI, quantum, and nation-state threats?
In this episode of Code and Country, we sit down with NATO’s first-ever CIO and CISO, Manfred Boudreaux-Dehmer, for an inside look at the alliance’s approach to cybersecurity, digital transformation, and geopolitical defense.
We explore why NATO consensus creates stronger decisions, how multi-domain operations integrate land, sea, air, cyber, and space defense, and what cyber leaders can learn from NATO’s approach to AI-powered protection and zero trust architecture.
Manfred shares how Russia, China, and North Korea use disinformation, stealth, and ransomware to pursue their national agendas. He also explains how Q-Day is coming and what leaders must do now to prepare for post-quantum cryptography.
If you are thinking about cyber threats at a nation-state scale, emerging quantum risks, or the impact of AI on defense strategies, this conversation will keep you ahead of the curve.
Listen to learn how NATO is modernizing cyber defense in support of democratic institutions.
When a ransomware attack hits, the headlines focus on the ransom. But what happens after the payment clears?
In this episode of Code and Country, we bring in Partner and Data Breach Coach Brent Arnold of Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP to uncover the truth about data breach response, the limits of cyber insurance, and the legal frontlines of cybersecurity litigation.
We take you inside why even “successful” ransomware payments often fail to recover your data, how insurers are rewriting the rules on cybersecurity compliance and policy exclusions, what CISOs need to know about the supply chain risk, class action defense, and recoup litigation.
Brent also shares his firsthand experience navigating Web3 cybersecurity, data protection in crisis, and the realities of incident response at scale.
Listen in and prepare your team to confront the real costs of cyber warfare—before you’re the next target.
In this episode of Code and Country, former CSIS and CBSA intelligence expert Neil Bisson explores the rising threats facing Canada and its allies. Cyber attacks, geopolitical tension, and cross-border crime are converging to reshape Canada’s security landscape.
Cyber and physical threats are no longer separate. Nation-state actors and cybercriminals are launching digital attacks that disrupt infrastructure, communications, and even elections. Intelligence sharing is also shifting as the United States adjusts its global strategy. Canada and its Five Eyes partners are being forced to rethink how they collaborate and respond.
At the border, Canada is dealing with a surge in illegal firearms entering from the south, while fentanyl remains a major concern. Economic pressure, disinformation, and trade tactics are quietly influencing Canadian sovereignty in ways many have not yet recognized.
AI-generated propaganda and deepfakes are already working to manipulate public opinion. This is a critical moment for Canada. Tune in to hear Neil Bisson’s expert perspective on what comes next.
Canada’s next election is already under attack—and most voters don’t even know it
Foreign adversaries are not waiting for ballots to be cast before interfering in Canada’s 2025 federal election. The fight isn’t happening at polling stations—it’s happening online, in misinformation campaigns, and through AI-driven influence operations.
In this episode of Code and Country, former CSIS Director Richard Fadden exposes how foreign actors, including China, are manipulating public perception long before election day. Disinformation is more than a nuisance—it’s a weapon. Deepfakes, AI-generated propaganda, and cyber warfare tactics are being deployed to destabilize democracy right now.
The warning signs are clear. The question is: Will Canada take action before it’s too late?
This episode is essential listening for anyone who cares about the integrity of our democracy. Listen now, subscribe, and stay informed.
The fight for truth starts here.
Ep. 6: Code and Country: The Security Agency You’ve Never Heard Of
In this episode of Code and Country, we dive into the high-stakes world of cybersecurity, national security, and geopolitical threats with former Chief of Communications Security Establishment (CSE), Canada’s top cyber intelligence agency, Shelly Bruce. With more than 30 years at CSE, Bruce drove critical efforts in signals intelligence, cyber defense, and offensive cyber operations. She also led the creation of the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security in 2018.
Bruce shares insider stories on state-sponsored cyber threats like Volt Typhoon, lessons from Stuxnet, and the evolving cyber battlefield. She offers hard-won insights into how nations defend against cyber espionage and attacks targeting critical infrastructure. We also explore quantum computing risks, AI-powered cybercrime, and what businesses can do today to protect their systems.
If you’re in cybersecurity, national defense, or simply fascinated by the digital frontlines shaping global power, this episode is a must-listen.
Join us on Code and Country as we delve into the high-stakes world of cybersecurity with one of Canada’s top experts, Sami Khoury.
Currently serving as the Senior Official for Cyber Security for the Government of Canada, Sami has a storied career spanning over three decades at the forefront of national and international cyber defense. From his early days as an engineer to leading the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, Sami’s journey is a testament to the critical role of cybersecurity in safeguarding a nation’s secrets and infrastructure.
This episode offers a rare glimpse into the life of a cybersecurity leader who shapes the strategies defending against some of the most sophisticated digital threats facing countries today. Explore the evolving cybersecurity landscape through Sami’s expert lens, as he discusses how ransomware, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing are reshaping the future of national security.
Learn about Canada’s response to global cyber threats, the strategic importance of international coalitions against ransomware, and the pivotal role of public-private partnerships in advancing cybersecurity measures. With insights into policy-making, incident response, and the development of resilient digital ecosystems, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, security, and governance. Tune in to discover how Canada is leading the charge in the digital age, ensuring safety and stability in an increasingly interconnected world.
In this episode of Code and Country, we talk to Elizabeth Sizeland, former U.K. Deputy National Security Adviser and Prime Minister’s Adviser on National Resilience and Security, to explore the evolving intersection of cybersecurity, resilience, and national security.
From her leadership experience shaping U.K. cyber policies and managing domestic security crises, Elizabeth talks about how nations can combat state-sponsored cyber threats. She discusses the evolving role of the National Cyber Force, the importance of public-private collaboration, and the need for societal-level resilience to safeguard critical infrastructure.
Elizabeth also discusses emerging technologies that are reshaping the global cyber landscape, like quantum computing and AI. With an emphasis on preparing for high-impact risks, she shares practical advice on building resilience, responding to modern threats, and ensuring rapid recovery from crisis. Tune in to gain real insights into the strategies governments and enterprises must adopt to navigate today’s complex cybersecurity challenges.
What does it take to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity? VADM Mike McConnell, USN (Ret.), former Director National Intelligence (DNI), Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Vice Chairman of Booz Allen Hamilton, joins Code and Country to share unparallelled insights on the critical issues shaping the digital defense landscape today.
From tackling advanced ransomware attacks to leveraging AI-driven cybersecurity solutions, VADM McConnell discusses the challenges and opportunities facing governments and enterprises alike. He delves into the importance of public-private sector collaboration, the growing impact of generative AI on cyber defense, and the evolving role of organizations like Cyber Command. Learn how his leadership helped shape modern approaches to safeguarding critical infrastructure and responding to nation-state threats.
In this episode of Code and Country, cybersecurity expert Ed Hammersla explores the evolution of cybersecurity in both the government and commercial sectors. With decades of experience at IBM, Raytheon, and Trusted Computer Solutions, Ed discusses cutting-edge topics like trusted Linux systems, cross-domain solutions, and securing sensitive data.
Discover how automation, artificial intelligence, and collaboration are reshaping cybersecurity strategies to combat ransomware and cyber threats while also ensuring data security and resilience. Gain valuable insights into the challenges of balancing functionality, usability, and security in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
In the inaugural episode of Code and Country, Plurilock CEO Ian L. Paterson and Chris Lynam of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police talk about cybersecurity, national security, and law enforcement's evolving role in combating cybercrime.
Learn about Chris' career, the NC3's mission to reduce the impact of cybercrime on Canada, their collaboration with international partners, and the challenges posed by technological advancements and cyber threats.
NOTE: The views and opinions expressed in this program are solely those of the participants. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, nor should they be construed as an endorsement of any brand or service.