Ep. 16 Critical Mass: Nuclear Testing, Power for the AI Era, and the Civic Moves That Matter

 In this episode of Understandable Insights, Sue and Eric discuss the significance of local elections around the country. They delve into the U.S. government’s approach to decommissioned nuclear warheads, current discussions about resuming nuclear testing, and key takeaways from President Trump’s diplomatic tour in Asia. They also examine a high-profile insider-threat case involving a defense contractor and close with What We’re Watching for the week ahead: Supreme Court action on tariffs, a potential government shutdown, AI-bubble rumblings, developments in Nigeria, and reflections on the passing of former Vice President Dick Cheney.Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Understandable Insights01:26 Election Day03:05 President Trump’s Asia Trip09:56 Nuclear Weapons Testing Debate14:52 Upcycling Nuclear Materials22:08 Insider Threats in National Security30:29 What We’re Watching38:42 Remembering Dick CheneyAbout the show:Understandable Insights: Information to Intelligence with Sue Gordon is the national security podcast that provides you an elemental understanding of the world as it is, not how you prefer it to be.Each week, Eric Koepp — a former Marine, father, and entrepreneur — sits down with the Honorable Sue Gordon, the nation’s former top career intelligence officer. Together, they break down the headlines shaping our world and ask what they really mean for citizens, leaders, and institutions.From armed conflict to emerging tech, foreign interference to the resilience of democracy — this is where raw information becomes real intelligence. Unfiltered. Candid. Unapologetically clear.Website and Feedback:Remember we’re here for you. Provide us feedback or suggest topics for next time: FeedbackInstagram: @ui_podcastSend us Fan MailJoin us on Youtube, Instagram, and wherever you enjoy your podcasts. New episodes every Tuesday.  Follow or subscribe today.