INSA Podcast
Intelligence Career Conversations
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Dr. Lisa Costa: Be the Storm
On this week's episode of the Intelligence Career Conversations podcast, host Jim Donnelly welcomes Dr. Lisa Costa, National Security Executive at Seekr. From overcoming humble beginnings to leading at the highest levels, Dr. Costa shares how believing in yourself, speaking up, and bringing your full talents to the mission can help you stand firm and be the storm.
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Don Blersch: Authenticity and Objectivity
On this week's episode of the Intelligence Career Conversations podcast, Jim Donnelly welcomes Donald Blersch, Chair of INSA's Security Policy Reform Council and Senior Vice President for Government Innovation at Clearspeed. Tune in as Don reflects on his 35+ year career serving across the intelligence and national security community. The discussion includes his path into the IC, transitioning from technical roles to leadership, and advice for young professionals navigating their careers.
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Meg O'Neill: Art of Collaboration and Innovation
On this week's episode of the Intelligence Career Conversations podcast, Jim Donnelly is joined by Meg O'Neill, Founder and President, O'Neill Strategy Group, LLC. Tune in as Meg discusses her 30+ years of leadership across the IC. From Shaping acquisition strategy at the CIA to launching DOE's counterintelligence office, Meg shares insights on collaboration, innovation, and driving mission impact.
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Sarah Daly: Pursue Excellence, Be Adventurous
On this week's episode of the Intelligence Career Conversations podcast, Jim Donnelly welcomes Sarah Daly, Research Staff Member, Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA). Tune in as Sarah discusses the value of non-linear career growth, how technological competence can be a key differentiator for young professionals, and the importance of continuous learning, experimentation, and adaptability.
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Linda Weissgold: Candor, Courage, and the Craft of Analysis
On this week's episode of the Intelligence Career Conversations podcast, host Jim Donnelly welcomes Linda Weissgold, Former Deputy Director for Analysis, CIA. Tune in as Ms. Weissgold reflects on her 37-year intelligence career—beginning with how she launched her journey at the Agency. She shares the key skills and qualities that define great analysts and discusses the opportunities and challenges facing the IC workforce.