Episode 25: Inside the CIA and 9/11 Attacks with Michael Morell

Welcome back to Elevated Thoughts! In the latest episode of our 9/11 series, we had the privilege of speaking with Michael Morell, former Acting Director of the CIA and Presidential Daily Briefer to George W. Bush during the 9/11 attacks.

Michael's journey in the CIA is nothing short of remarkable. He provided daily intelligence briefings to President Bush, offering critical insights during one of the most pivotal times in American history. In our conversation, Michael delves into the days leading up to and following 9/11, sharing his unique perspective on the intelligence community's efforts to combat terrorism.

One of the key highlights of the episode is Michael's discussion on the evolution of the CIA. He explains how the agency adapted to the growing threats from Al Qa'ida and other terrorist organizations, and the lessons learned from past intelligence operations. His recounting of the events on 9/11 offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the CIA and the challenges faced by intelligence officers.

We also explore the current global security climate and how it compares to the early 2000s. Michael's insights into today's digital and cyber threats are particularly illuminating, shedding light on the new frontiers of national security. His extensive experience and deep understanding of geopolitical dynamics make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intricacies of global security.

Michael Morell is also the author of "The Great War of Our Time: The CIA's Fight Against Terrorism—from Al Qa'ida to ISIS," a book that provides a comprehensive look at the CIA's counterterrorism efforts. Additionally, he co-hosts the Intelligence Matters podcast, where he continues to discuss pressing security issues with leading experts.

In this episode, Michael shares:

• His early career and rise within the CIA
• The intense period around the 9/11 attacks
• Successful counterterrorism operations
• Comparisons between past and present global security climates
• The impact of digital and cyber threats on modern security

Join us for this insightful conversation that not only revisits the past but also looks forward to the future of global security.

Listen to the full episode here.