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The JGI Policy Pulse

Welcome to Policy Pulse, presented by the Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy at Florida International University's esteemed Steven J. Green School of International and Public Affairs. Join our host, Leland Lazarus, as we explore a wide range of international challenges and opportunities that will shape the 21st century. In each episode you’ll meet foreign policy experts, hear insightful discussions and be a part of thought-provoking conversations driving global change. Stay informed and engaged with JGI Policy Pulse, where policy is at the heart of all our discussions.

LATEST EPISODE

Space, Speed, and Sovereignty: China’s Growing Space Footprint in Latin America

The U.S.-China competition is reaching up into the stars. In the past decade, the PRC has quickly developed its space capabilities, including space-enabling infrastructure across Latin America. National security researchers have raised alarms about how the PRC could leverage its space infrastructure in the Western Hemisphere to monitor U.S. and other country satellites, intercept sensitive information, and even potentially help guide its hypersonic missiles. What is the true extent of the PRC’s space capabilities in the Western Hemisphere, and how does the PRC threaten U.S. and partner nations’ security in the region? This week, Leland sits down with Guido Torres, Executive Director of the Irregular Warfare Initiative, and Laura Lopez Delgado, former Visiting Fellow of the Center for Strategic and International Studies Americas Program, to discuss China’s long march into the final frontier.

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2024 EPISODES
  • Episode 8 - Bridging the AI Policy Gap with Brian Fonseca and Mike Asencio

    Artificial Intelligence has continued to force industries to evolve, but legislation has struggled to keep up at the same pace. Earlier this year, the Jack D. Gordon Institute held the inaugural Florida AI Policy Summit which aimed to address AI policy changes to the state’s legislative body. Today, Mike Asencio joins us once more, this time as guest co-host, as we speak to Gordon Institute Director Brian Fonseca on key policy takeaways from the summit. Together we explore AI’s impact across academia, industry, and the private sector and determine the framework of governance needed.

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  • Episode 7 - New Dark Alliances with Douglas Farah

    The Western Hemisphere is facing a 4th wave of transnational crime, and this time the gangs are coming from across the Atlantic. In this episode of the JGI Policy Pulse, host Leland Lazarus sits down with Douglas Farah of the International Coalition Against Illicit Economies to discuss the rise of Italian, Albanian, and Turkish gangs operating in the Americas.

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  • Episode 6 - Challenged Sovereignty with Dr. Ivelaw Griffith

    In the Caribbean, several countries have been disrupted by the increase of “Problems Without Passports” (PWPs). Join us in this episode of the JGI Policy Pulse, as Dr. Ivelaw Griffith sits down with us to break down his insights from his recent publication: Challenged Sovereignty: The Impact of Drugs, Crime, Terrorism, and Cyber Threats in the Caribbean. Dive into the intricacies of sovereignty disputes within CARICOM and where the stability of these nations currently stand.

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  • Episode 5 - The True Cost of Crypto with Mike Asencio

    For good or for ill, crypto continues to make global headlines. While cryptocurrencies have been accepted into Exchange Traded Funds, there have also been high profile arrests of crypto tycoons like Sam Bankman Fried and CZ Zhao. In this episode, we delve into the complex world of cryptocurrencies and their potential threats to national security. FIU’s Mike Asencio sits down with Leland to explore how the anonymity and decentralization of digital currencies can facilitate illicit activities, from money laundering to funding terrorism, posing significant challenges to law enforcement and global security. Tune in to understand the true costs of crypto.

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  • Episode 4 - Unraveling the AI Revolution with Peter W. Singer

    Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing every industry in the world, and it has profound implications for the way countries need to think about national security. In today's episode of JGI Policy Pulse, we speak with New America's Senior Fellow, Peter W. Singer, on AI's rapid advancement and how it affects national security. Learn about the opportunities and challenges AI will bring and understand how this emerging technology will shape the world as we know it.

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  • Episode 3 - From Passion to Purpose with Dui Mora Turner

    In this special episode celebrating Women’s History Month, our host Leland chats with Dui Mora Turner, a retired Air Force Lt. Colonel who led U.S. Southern Command’s Women, Peace and Security program. Listen as Dui describes her personal and professional journey: coming to the U.S. from Brazil, becoming an Air Force meteorologist, inspiring young service members across LatAm, and launching FIU’s WPS Forum!

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  • Episode 2 - When the Dragon Joins the Club with Adam Ratzlaff

    Over the past decade, China has expanded its influence in Latin America and the Caribbean in a plethora of ways. But one area that hasn’t garnered as much attention is its engagement in regional organizations. In this episode of the JGI Policy Pulse, FIU Ph.D. candidate Adam Ratzlaff delves into China’s complex relationship with over 30 regional organizations and forums.

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  • Episode 1 - United in Service with Admiral Craig Faller

    In this episode of the JGI Policy Pulse we delve into the heart of security challenges shaping the landscapes of Latin America and the Caribbean. In a thought-provoking conversation recorded for FIU students, we explore the nuanced perspectives of a seasoned Admiral on the frontlines of defense. Our guest, the esteemed Admiral Craig S. Faller, shares insights on the region’s security dynamics, China’s growing influence, and personal values that inspired his service and sacrifice for the greater good. 

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2023 EPISODES
  • Episode 7 - Decoding International Law with Mario Loyola

    In this special final episode for 2023, Dr. Shlomi Dinar, dean of FIU’s Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs, joins us with Mario Loyola, a research assistant professor at FIU's Institute of Environment and College of Law. They delve into the complexities of the Israel-Hamas war, unraveling the implications of the conflict through the lens of international and human rights laws.

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  • Episode 6 - One Month After the Attack with Miri Eisin

    On the latest exclusive episode of the JGI Policy Pulse, we focus on the aftermath of Hamas' attack on Israel about a month ago. Leading this special edition is Dr. Shlomi Dinar, the Dean of FIU’s Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs. Dr. Dinar is joined by Miri Eisin, Director of the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism at Reichman University in Herzliya, Israel, and a retired Colonel of the Israel Defense Forces. Together, they move beyond the events of October 7th, delving into additional factors and challenges shaping the landscape of Israel, Gaza, the Palestinians, and the broader Middle East. Tune in for a thorough exploration of the intricate dynamics in this exclusive episode.

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  • Episode 5 - A Holy Land in Turmoil with Eric Lob

    We bring you an insightful episode as we unpack the conflict between Israel and Hamas in the latest installment of Florida International University's JGI Policy Pulse, brought to you by the Jack Gordon Institute at the Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs. This episode features host Leland Lazarus in conversation with Eric Lob, an expert in Middle Eastern politics at FIU. Together, they delve into the severe repercussions of the recent Hamas attack on Israel, turning this ongoing saga into a narrative that extends beyond mere headlines. Recognizing the human impact and the sustained tensions in the region, join us for a thought-provoking discussion that delves into the core of the matter, urging for our undivided attention and comprehension.

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  • Episode 4 - The Cybersecurity Frontier with Randy Pestana

    Get ready for Cybersecurity Awareness Month with an engaging episode featuring Randy Pestana, the Associate Director of Cybersecurity Policy at the Jack D. Gordon Institute. Discover insights on Latin America's cyber landscape and U.S. support, along with Randy's initiatives to enhance cyber education in the region, including the Veteran and First Responder Training Initiative. Join us for a captivating conversation on the evolving world of cybersecurity.

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  • Episode 3 - The Hunt for "White Gold" with Ali Rahman

    Discover the allure of "white gold" in our latest podcast episode. Lithium, a critical mineral fueling renewable energy, is in the spotlight worldwide. Dive into the heart of this intrigue in South America's Lithium Triangle – Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile – housing a remarkable 60% of global lithium reserves. Embark on a journey through these countries' lithium sectors, understand their role in the broader U.S.-China strategic competition, and engage in a fascinating conversation with Ali Rahman, the CEO of a prominent lithium company at the forefront of this invaluable resource's global pursuit.

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  • Episode 2 - The Caribbean's Golden Passport with Leland Lazarus

    Join host Leland Lazarus as he becomes the guest in this special episode. Jack D. Gordon Program Director, Mike Asencio, discusses the increasing trend of wealthy Chinese individuals obtaining Caribbean citizenship through the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. Five Caribbean nations have reaped significant benefits from CBI, with some countries seeing it contribute up to a third of their GDP. Explore the implications of this rising phenomenon, including the potential political influence of affluent Chinese citizens who relocate their assets and citizenship to the Caribbean.

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  • Episode 1 - Breaking the Chain with Andrea Crosta

    Illegal wildlife trafficking, the 4th most profitable illegal trade globally, often remains in the shadows amid more well-known transnational organized crimes. A vast network of traffickers deals in shark fins, rhino horns, jaguar skins, illegal fish, and elephant tusks, with significant demand stemming from China. Join us in this episode as Andrea Crosta, Executive Director of Earth League International, sheds light on the clandestine world of wildlife traffickers. Discover how his team, known as the "intelligence agency for Earth," is dedicated to thwarting their activities.

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