HSDF THE PODCAST

Welcome to our “TUESDAY EDITION of HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum In this episode our panel will at why cyber threat intelligence sharing still fails to stop real-world breaches, especially for small organizations that lack the people to turn alerts into action. We map out what “collective defense” looks like when you connect government authorities, industry engineering muscle, and AI-powered defense without slowing everything down with bureaucracy. Featuring: Rich Baich, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer, AT&TBrigadier General Brandon Haynie, Mobilization Assistant to the Director of Intelligence, J2, U.S. Cyber CommandVice Admiral T.J. White, U.S. Navy (Ret.), Chief, Texas Cyber Command (moderator) This discussion took place June 10th, 2026, at HSDF’s Cyber SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to our “TUESDAY EDITION of HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum In this episode our panel will at why cyber threat intelligence sharing still fails to stop real-world breaches, especially for small organizations that lack the people to turn alerts into action. We map out what “collective defense” looks like when you connect government authorities, industry engineering muscle, and AI-powered defense without slowing everything down with bureaucracy. Featuring:Rich Baich, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer, AT&TBrigadier General Brandon Haynie, Mobilization Assistant to the Director of Intelligence, J2, U.S. Cyber CommandVice Admiral T.J. White, U.S. Navy (Ret.), Chief, Texas Cyber Command (moderator) This discussion took place June 10th, 2026, at HSDF’s Cyber SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum In this episode, We trace quantum from strange physics to useful tools, highlighting where annealing delivers value now and where sensing may outpace computing. We show how to scope a pilot, measure speed to solution, and decide when classical, AI, and quantum work best together. Featuring:- Prachi Vakharia, President, Washington Institute for STEM, Entrepreneurship and Research - Allison Schwartz, Global Government Relations & Public Affairs Leader, D-Wave - Dr. Reggie Brothers, Operating Partner, AE Industrial (moderator) This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum In this episode, We show how quantum becomes useful now through cloud access, Python-based tools, and focused pilots in logistics, materials, sensing, and security. We balance realism on timelines with concrete wins, from port optimization to post-quantum crypto planning and AI synergies. Featuring:- Prachi Vakharia, President, Washington Institute for STEM, Entrepreneurship and Research - Allison Schwartz, Global Government Relations & Public Affairs Leader, D-Wave - Dr. Reggie Brothers, Operating Partner, AE Industrial (moderator) This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumIn this episode, We unpack how DHS leaders move from compliance-heavy buying to outcome-based contracting that delivers speed, clarity, and measurable results. Coast Guard, TSA, and CBP share practical ways to define success, choose the right contract type, and adjust incentives without slowing the mission.Featuring:- Julie Koo, Chief of the Contracting Office for the Border Enforcement and Administration Portfolio, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)- Denise Morales, Head of Contracting Activity, Transportation Security Administration (TSA)- Shreena Morris, Head of Contracting Activity, U.S. Coast Guard- Sarah Green, Deputy Chief Procurement Officer, DHS (moderator)This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumIn this episode, We map a practical path to outcome-based contracting that trades complexity for clarity and speed. We unpack modular awards, the skills procurement teams need, how reform opens new options, and how industry can help us rewire habits for better results.Featuring:- Julie Koo, Chief of the Contracting Office for the Border Enforcement and Administration Portfolio, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)- Denise Morales, Head of Contracting Activity, Transportation Security Administration (TSA)- Shreena Morris, Head of Contracting Activity, U.S. Coast Guard- Sarah Green, Deputy Chief Procurement Officer, DHS (moderator)This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumIn this episode, we explore how the Coast Guard turned AI from promise to practice by embedding governance in architecture, treating data as a product, and keeping humans accountable at critical decisions. Real use cases in HR and audits show faster, fairer outcomes with measurable gains.Featuring:- CDR Jonathan White, Cloud and Data Branch Chief, U.S. Coast Guard - Carin Quiroga, Chief Data Officer, Immigration and Customs Enforcement- Courtney Whelan-Stillmun, Principal Architect, Google Public Sector (moderator)This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government Symposium Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum In this episode we take you inside the shift from siloed spreadsheets to governed data products, and show how that foundation lets AI cut hours from planning and reporting without replacing human judgment. Along the way, we break down the hidden process gaps that look like “bad data,” the cultural resistance that slows sharing, and the simple moves—like quality trend monitoring and clear ownership—that unlock momentum. Featuring:- CDR Jonathan White, Cloud and Data Branch Chief, U.S. Coast Guard - Carin Quiroga, Chief Data Officer, Immigration and Customs Enforcement- Courtney Whelan-Stillmun, Principal Architect, Google Public Sector (moderator) This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumIn this episode, we lay out a practical path to trusted AI in government: build a mission fabric that captures operational context, invest in shared data architecture, and measure decision quality through iterative delivery. We also tackle brittle models, multimodal sensing, and smarter procurement that values outcomes over promises.Featuring:- CDR Jonathan White, Cloud and Data Branch Chief, U.S. Coast Guard - Carin Quiroga, Chief Data Officer, Immigration and Customs Enforcement- Courtney Whelan-Stillmun, Principal Architect, Google Public Sector (moderator)This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum In this episode, We map how biometrics, mobile identity, and open architectures are reshaping travel from check-in to border crossing, and how partnerships prepare the system for the World Cup and beyond. CBP, TSA, and State share concrete steps toward faster, safer, and more predictable journeys. Featuring:- Tim Ahrens, Artificial Intelligence & Automation Team Lead, Bureau of Diplomatic Technology, Department of State- Matt Davies, Executive Director, Admissibility and Passenger Programs, Office of Field Operations, Customs and Border Protection - Balaji Subramaniam, Acting Chief Information Officer, Transportation Security Administration - Aaron Silverman, Strategy Leader, Deloitte- Luke McCormack, Former CIO, Departments of Homeland Security and Justice (moderator) This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government Symposium Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumIn this episode, We open the floor to audience questions and dig into how border security is changing, how TSA builds sustainable innovation, and why the future of identity blends biometrics with digital IDs. We close with practical changes travelers will see for the World Cup and Olympics.Featuring:- Tim Ahrens, Artificial Intelligence & Automation Team Lead, Bureau of Diplomatic Technology, Department of State- Matt Davies, Executive Director, Admissibility and Passenger Programs, Office of Field Operations, Customs and Border Protection - Balaji Subramaniam, Acting Chief Information Officer, Transportation Security Administration - Aaron Silverman, Strategy Leader, Deloitte- Luke McCormack, Former CIO, Departments of Homeland Security and Justice (moderator)This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumIn this episode, We explore how to balance mission urgency with responsible modernization across ICE, from field radios and mobile apps to AI and data mesh. We share a practical way to turn security from a blocker into an enabler while building a workforce ready for zero trust and rapid change.Featuring:- Dustin Goetz, Chief Information Officer, Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Luke McCormack, Former CIO, Departments of Homeland Security and Justice (moderator)This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government SymposiumThank you for Tuning in to “HSDF the Podcast”.  Follow HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss the latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security. Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion. For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumIn this episode, We break down how CTMS streamlines cyber hiring while outlining what industry partnerships must deliver to move the mission faster. We dive into AI automation, mobile-first operations, user experience, and the metrics that matter for reinvestment and scale.Featuring:- Dustin Goetz, Chief Information Officer, Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Luke McCormack, Former CIO, Departments of Homeland Security and Justice (moderator)This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government SymposiumThank you for Tuning in to “HSDF the Podcast”.  Follow HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss the latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security. Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion. For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum In this episode, We answer sharp audience questions on crypto indicators, device searches, and why precision beats volume. Then we map the road to sustainable innovation, hybrid testing, and a biometric-plus-digital ID future as the World Cup and Olympics near. Featuring:- Dustin Goetz, Chief Information Officer, Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Luke McCormack, Former CIO, Departments of Homeland Security and Justice (moderator) This discussion took place January 22nd, 2026, at HSDF’s Technology Innovation in Government SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum If awareness is power, precision is freedom. We dig into the real gap between knowing what’s happening right now and understanding what’s coming over the hill—from interdictions at sea to cargo screening, counter-narcotics, and port security. With a seasoned Coast Guard perspective and hard-won insights from DHS veterans, we explore how to turn scattered sensor feeds and siloed databases into decisions that buy operators time and reduce risk. Featuring:Ryan Riccucci, Division Chief, Enforcement Technology & Operational Programs, CBP RADM Jo-Ann Burdian, Senior Advisor to the Commandant, U.S. Coast GuardPatrick Flynn, Director Growth, CBP/Biometric Programs, GDITDavid BeMiller, former Deputy Chief of Border Patrol (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Our panel discusses constraints and what it really takes to scale. Hiring thousands more agents is unlikely, so leadership is aiming to make each person ten times more productive through interoperable systems and better data. That demands a common language—not by forcing one lexicon, but by modeling entities and relationships with ontologies so every agency keeps its dialect while the system resolves meaning. The result is clarity across boundaries and a foundation for analytics that actually help on the edge. Featuring:Ryan Riccucci, Division Chief, Enforcement Technology & Operational Programs, CBP RADM Jo-Ann Burdian, Senior Advisor to the Commandant, U.S. Coast GuardPatrick Flynn, Director Growth, CBP/Biometric Programs, GDITDavid BeMiller, former Deputy Chief of Border Patrol (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Our panel walks through how a multi-year cloud migration cut outages, sped recovery, and set the stage for AI that actually helps people at the border and across trade. No hype—just the decisions, guardrails, and workflows that let a 24x7 operation move fast without breaking trust. Featuring:Jay Alalasundaram, Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Software and Applications and Services, CBPBaibhav “Bobo” Devkota, Executive Director, Border Enforcement and Management Systems Directorate, CBP Thomas Mills, Executive Director, Cargo Systems Program Directorate, CBP Neha Saijpaul, Director, Digital Solutions, CACI International Inc. (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Our panel  shares how that shift to AI changes our process, our culture, and our platform. By embedding prompt engineers at the mission edge, we compress requirements into live solutions, gather feedback in real time, and turn early power users into a broader base of confident practitioners. Think Excel’s early days, but with governance, security, and scale built in from the start. Featuring:Jay Alalasundaram, Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Software and Applications and Services, CBPBaibhav “Bobo” Devkota, Executive Director, Border Enforcement and Management Systems Directorate, CBP Thomas Mills, Executive Director, Cargo Systems Program Directorate, CBP Neha Saijpaul, Director, Digital Solutions, CACI International Inc. (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Our panel pulls back the curtain on a playbook that blends five-sigma reliability with bold bets on generative AI, edge computing, and zero trust—so agents get real answers in real time while security stays tight. This is a story about turning policy into operations, reducing tool sprawl with a strong Technical Reference Model, and building an architecture that meets the mission where it lives: at the edge.Featuring:Sonny Bhagowalia, Assistant Commissioner and Chief Information Officer, CBP Sunil Madhugiri, Chief Technology Officer, CBP Dr. Barry West, former DHS Acting Deputy CIO (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum We sit down with CBP leaders to unpack a practical transformation: a living data inventory and catalog, an enterprise search that returns cited answers instead of document piles, and “agent tech” that automates the last mile of work for officers, analysts, and engineers. The result is faster, more accurate decisions where it matters most. Featuring:Sonny Bhagowalia, Assistant Commissioner and Chief Information Officer, CBP Sunil Madhugiri, Chief Technology Officer, CBP Dr. Barry West, former DHS Acting Deputy CIO (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Borders aren’t just lines on a map—they’re living systems shaped by authorities, partnerships, and the ability to outpace adversaries who adapt fast. We bring together decades of military and law enforcement leadership to unpack what actually determines success: the legal frameworks that govern National Guard and active-duty roles, the intelligence architecture that connects U.S. agencies with Mexican counterparts, and the upstream moves that expose tunnels, stash sites, and convoy routes before they reach the fence. Featuring:MG (Ret.) John F. King, U.S. ArmyChief (Ret.) Manny Padilla, Former CBP Executive Assistant CommissionerGeneral Laura Richardson, U.S. Army (Retired) (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Speed decides who stays safe. We pull back the curtain on how America can out-iterate fast-moving threats at the border and beyond, connecting acquisition reform, AI-first systems, and operator needs to real-world outcomes. From the National Defense Authorization Act to the Safer Skies authority push, we lay out how procurement must shift from slow “programs of record” to agile “characteristics of need” that deliver capability when it matters. Featuring:MG (Ret.) John F. King, U.S. ArmyChief (Ret.) Manny Padilla, Former CBP Executive Assistant CommissionerGeneral Laura Richardson, U.S. Army (Retired) (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum The threat isn’t arriving someday; it’s already overhead. We pull back the curtain on how cartels are adapting small UAS tactics, what we’re seeing at the border in real time, and why chasing point solutions is a losing game. Instead of a brittle “counter-drone” wall, we’re building an air domain awareness fabric that starts with detect, track, and identify, then applies the right mitigation for the place and moment.  Featuring:Matt Becker, Vice President and Division Manager, Leidos Erik Sorensen, Assistant Chief, Defense Capability Group/C-UAS Operations Coordinator, U.S. Border PatrolJames “JT” Thom, Executive Director, Domain Awareness Security Operations, Air and Marine Operations, CBP David Aguilar, Former CBP Acting and Deputy Commissioner and former Chief of Border Patrol (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Our panel unpack the two levers that change everything: faster acquisition and specialized training. Gear that works in rugged border terrain must be ready for stadium perimeters and complex RF environments, and it has to arrive without emptying existing deployments. With only a few DHS components holding mitigation authority, we dig into why legislative fixes and interagency partnerships matter, and how a finite workforce can be stretched across 11 event cities through standardized playbooks and interoperable command-and-control. Featuring:Matt Becker, Vice President and Division Manager, Leidos Erik Sorensen, Assistant Chief, Defense Capability Group/C-UAS Operations Coordinator, U.S. Border PatrolJames “JT” Thom, Executive Director, Domain Awareness Security Operations, Air and Marine Operations, CBP David Aguilar, Former CBP Acting and Deputy Commissioner and former Chief of Border Patrol (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum From 10,800 apprehensions to record lows a few months later - Deputy Chief Slosar walks through the policies that shape the flow, tech that expands domain awareness, and people who deliver law enforcement outcomes where it counts. It’s a frank, ground-level look at what “control” means today and why it remains fragile without resilient comms and interoperable intelligence at the edge. Featuring:Deputy Chief Walter Slosar, U.S. Border PatrolDavid Aguilar, Former CBP Acting and Deputy Commissioner and former Chief of Border Patrol (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Trade just got harder, faster, and far more granular—and we’re on the hook to make it work at the border. With a surge of White House trade actions and hundreds of new tariff lines, the old duty math has evolved into a puzzle of components, end uses, and origin rules that demand proof down to where raw materials were pulled from the ground. We walk through how our teams turn policy into action, adjusting systems, issuing guidance, and enforcing at ports while keeping legitimate commerce moving at the speed of electrons. Featuring:Brandon Lord, Executive Director, Office of Trade Policy & Programs, CBPEric Choy, Executive Director, Trade Remedy Law Enforcement, Office of Trade, CBP C. Shane Campbell, Executive Director (Acting), Cargo and Conveyance Security, Office of Field Operations, CBPBrenda Smith, Former EAC for Trade, CBP (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Goods don’t talk, but the data around them does—and that’s where the real border work begins. We take you inside how Customs and Border Protection secures modern commerce by pairing AI with seasoned human judgment to spot risky shipments, speed trusted trade, and protect consumers and industries from harm. Featuring:Brandon Lord, Executive Director, Office of Trade Policy & Programs, CBPEric Choy, Executive Director, Trade Remedy Law Enforcement, Office of Trade, CBP C. Shane Campbell, Executive Director (Acting), Cargo and Conveyance Security, Office of Field Operations, CBPBrenda Smith, Former EAC for Trade, CBP (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Billions in new funding can change an agency—or break it. We sit down with CBP leaders to unpack how a seismic investment is being translated into real capabilities for the frontline: smarter hiring, better facilities, modern vehicles, and a data-centric approach to NII and biometrics that cuts friction while sharpening risk decisions. Featuring:Ntina Cooper, Executive Assistant Commissioner, Enterprise Services, CBP Jody Hardin, Executive Director, Innovation and Strategy Directorate, Office of Field Operations, CBPEarl Lewis, Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Office of Acquisition, CBPRyan Scudder, Former EAC for Enterprise Services, CBP (moderator) This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum What does it take to bring biometrics, non intrusive inspection tech, and AI to 328 ports of entry, hundreds of facilities, and far flung checkpoints you don’t even own? We pull back the curtain on modernization that works in the field, not just on slides, and share how we balance speed, safety, and accountability when the mission changes by the hour. Featuring:Ntina Cooper, Executive Assistant Commissioner, Enterprise Services, CBP Jody Hardin, Executive Director, Innovation and Strategy Directorate, Office of Field Operations, CBPEarl Lewis, Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Office of Acquisition, CBPRyan Scudder, Former EAC for Enterprise Services, CBP (moderator)This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumCBP Deputy Commissioner Modlin unpacks a rare moment of control at the border—and the ripple effects that follow. The conversation moves from raw field stats to strategic shifts, tracing how unprecedented removals, tighter international cooperation, and targeted network takedowns have reshaped the fight against cartels and transnational crime.Featuring:•John Modlin, Acting Deputy Commissioner, CBP•David Aguilar, Former CBP Acting and Deputy Commissioner and former Chief of Border Patrol (moderator)This discussion took place December 12, 2025 at 8th Annual Homeland Security & Defense Forum Border Security SymposiumFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the complex world of cybersecurity oversight, revealing the delicate balance between streamlining CISA's operations and preserving its essential capabilities. This candid conversation offers a rare glimpse into how Congress shapes America's digital defense strategy during a time of escalating threats. Featuring:Katie Arrington, Performing the Duties of the Department of Defense Chief Information OfficerMichael Duffy, Acting Federal CISO, Office of Management and Budget Matt Hayden, Vice President, Cyber Client Engagement, GDITLuke McCormack, Former CIO at DHS and DOJ (moderator) This discussion took place July 23rd, 2025, at HSDF’s Cybersecurity Symposium,  Navigating Cybersecurity Strategies in a Volatile WorldFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Defense cybersecurity leaders discuss lessons learned from recent major cyber events and initiatives to transform outdated security processes. Government agencies are working to improve operational collaboration, speed up software acquisition, and counter nation-state threats through cultural and technological transformation. Featuring:Katie Arrington, Performing the Duties of the Department of Defense Chief Information OfficerMichael Duffy, Acting Federal CISO, Office of Management and Budget Matt Hayden, Vice President, Cyber Client Engagement, GDITLuke McCormack, Former CIO at DHS and DOJ (moderator) This discussion took place July 23rd, 2025, at HSDF’s Cybersecurity Symposium,  Navigating Cybersecurity Strategies in a Volatile WorldFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Federal cybersecurity leaders discuss how they're measuring security outcomes beyond tool deployment, focusing on operational metrics like meantime to detect, respond, and recover. The panel shares insights on industry-government information sharing, the SharePoint vulnerability response, and how interagency coordination is creating resilience against nation-state threats. Featuring:Katie Arrington, Performing the Duties of the Department of Defense Chief Information OfficerMichael Duffy, Acting Federal CISO, Office of Management and Budget Matt Hayden, Vice President, Cyber Client Engagement, GDITLuke McCormack, Former CIO at DHS and DOJ (moderator) This discussion took place July 23rd, 2025, at HSDF’s Cybersecurity Symposium,  Navigating Cybersecurity Strategies in a Volatile WorldFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumThe clock is ticking on America's cybersecurity infrastructure. With just 69 days until the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act (CISA) of 2015 expires, congressional leaders are navigating a critical juncture for our nation's digital defenses.Featuring:•Alexandra Jane Seymour, Staff Director (Majority), House Subcommittee on Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Protection•Moira Bergin, Staff Director (Minority), House Subcommittee on Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Protection•Nick Leiserson, Senior VP, Policy, Institute for Security & Technology (moderator)This discussion took place July 23rd, 2025, at HSDF’s Cybersecurity Symposium,  Navigating Cybersecurity Strategies in a Volatile WorldFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the complex world of cybersecurity oversight, revealing the delicate balance between streamlining CISA's operations and preserving its essential capabilities. This candid conversation offers a rare glimpse into how Congress shapes America's digital defense strategy during a time of escalating threats. Featuring:Alexandra Jane Seymour, Staff Director (Majority), House Subcommittee on Cybersecurity & Infrastructure ProtectionMoira Bergin, Staff Director (Minority), House Subcommittee on Cybersecurity & Infrastructure ProtectionNick Leiserson, Senior VP, Policy, Institute for Security & Technology (moderator) This discussion took place July 23rd, 2025, at HSDF’s Cybersecurity Symposium,  Navigating Cybersecurity Strategies in a Volatile WorldFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Artificial intelligence is radically transforming both cybersecurity threats and the government's response capabilities. This candid conversation with leaders from CISA, FBI Cyber Division, Homeland Security Investigations, and DHS Science & Technology pulls back the curtain on how federal agencies are adapting to this new reality. Featuring:Bob Costello, Chief Information Officer, CISATodd Hemmen, Deputy Assistant Director, Cyber Division, Cyber Capabilities Branch, FBIDonald Coulter, Senior Science Advisor, Cybersecurity, S&T Directorate, Department of Homeland Security Jason Hill, Senior Executive Director, Cyber Practice, MANTECH Michael Prado, Deputy Assistant Director, Cyber Crimes Center, Homeland Security InvestigationsDr. Barry West, Former Senior Advisor (DHS OCIO) and Former FEMA CIO (moderator) This discussion took place July 23rd, 2025, at HSDF’s Cybersecurity Symposium,  Navigating Cybersecurity Strategies in a Volatile WorldFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumThe cybersecurity landscape is undergoing radical transformation, with artificial intelligence reshaping both attack vectors and defense strategies. This eye-opening discussion brings together experts from the FBI, HSI, CISA, and private industry to examine how the security paradigm is evolving in real-time.Featuring:•Bob Costello, Chief Information Officer, CISA•Todd Hemmen, Deputy Assistant Director, Cyber Division, Cyber Capabilities Branch, FBI•Donald Coulter, Senior Science Advisor, Cybersecurity, S&T Directorate, Department of Homeland Security Jason Hill, Senior Executive Director, Cyber Practice, MANTECH •Michael Prado, Deputy Assistant Director, Cyber Crimes Center, Homeland Security Investigations•Dr. Barry West, Former Senior Advisor (DHS OCIO) and Former FEMA CIO (moderator)This discussion took place July 23rd, 2025, at HSDF’s Cybersecurity Symposium,  Navigating Cybersecurity Strategies in a Volatile WorldFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumThe complex dance between government agencies and industry partners takes center stage in this revealing conversation with homeland security leaders. Rather than a transactional vendor-customer dynamic, these officials are seeking genuine partnerships built on trust, expertise, and mission understanding.Featuring:•Bob Costello, Chief Information Officer, CISA•Todd Hemmen, Deputy Assistant Director, Cyber Division, Cyber Capabilities Branch, FBI•Donald Coulter, Senior Science Advisor, Cybersecurity, S&T Directorate, Department of Homeland Security Jason Hill, Senior Executive Director, Cyber Practice, MANTECH •Michael Prado, Deputy Assistant Director, Cyber Crimes Center, Homeland Security Investigations•Dr. Barry West, Former Senior Advisor (DHS OCIO) and Former FEMA CIO (moderator)This discussion took place July 23rd, 2025, at HSDF’s Cybersecurity Symposium,  Navigating Cybersecurity Strategies in a Volatile WorldFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumWhat's holding federal agencies back from fully embracing AI? This revealing panel discussion cuts through the complexity of technology adoption in government, showcasing how different agencies are navigating the delicate balance between innovation and security.Featuring:•Bob Costello, Chief Information Officer, CISA•Todd Hemmen, Deputy Assistant Director, Cyber Division, Cyber Capabilities Branch, FBI•Donald Coulter, Senior Science Advisor, Cybersecurity, S&T Directorate, Department of Homeland Security Jason Hill, Senior Executive Director, Cyber Practice, MANTECH •Michael Prado, Deputy Assistant Director, Cyber Crimes Center, Homeland Security Investigations•Dr. Barry West, Former Senior Advisor (DHS OCIO) and Former FEMA CIO (moderator)This discussion took place July 23rd, 2025, at HSDF’s Cybersecurity Symposium,  Navigating Cybersecurity Strategies in a Volatile WorldFollow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum Acquisition veterans Soraya Correa and Nina Ferraro bring unparalleled wisdom to the revolutionary FAR overhaul transforming federal procurement. Drawing from their combined 80+ years of experience and leadership at the Department of Homeland Security, they offer a candid assessment of what's working, what's concerning, and what's essential for both government and industry partners. Featuring: Soraya Correa, Former DHS Chief Procurement OfficerNina Ferraro, Former DHS Deputy Chief Procurement OfficerThis discussion took place at the HSDF’s Symposium Defending the Frontline on June 26th, 2025. Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum The federal procurement ecosystem stands at a crossroads of transformation, with sweeping changes to regulations, business processes, and technology integration reshaping how government and industry work together. This engaging conversation between experienced acquisition leaders dives deep into what these changes mean for both sectors and how to prepare for the road ahead. Featuring:Soraya Correa, Former DHS Chief Procurement OfficerNina Ferraro, Former DHS Deputy Chief Procurement OfficerThis discussion took place at the HSDF’s Symposium Defending the Frontline on June 26th, 2025. Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum This eye-opening conversation unveils the alarming reality of online child exploitation and the innovative response being mounted by the Department of Homeland Security. The panel reveals how cyber tips reporting potential exploitation have skyrocketed by 360% in less than a decade, reaching a staggering 36 million reports in 2023 alone.  Featuring:Kate Kennedy, DHS Know2Protect Campaign Director, Homeland Security InvestigationsBobbie Stempfley, Vice President and Business Unit Security Officer, Dell Technologies This discussion took place at the HSDF’s Symposium Defending the Frontline on June 26th, 2025. Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumThe discussion continues focusing on how protecting children online requires collective action and strategic partnerships. The Department of Homeland Security's "Know to Protect" campaign represents a groundbreaking approach to combating child exploitation through innovative collaborations with tech giants, sports leagues, and influencers.Featuring:Kate Kennedy, DHS Know2Protect Campaign Director, Homeland Security InvestigationsBobbie Stempfley, Vice President and Business Unit Security Officer, Dell Technologies This discussion took place at the HSDF’s Symposium Defending the Frontline on June 26th, 2025. Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumTechnology is revolutionizing how we secure our borders and facilitate legitimate travel, transforming the entire homeland security landscape. Our panel of leaders from CBP and DHS Science & Technology reveal this evolution and how it blends cutting-edge innovation with thoughtful implementation.Featuring:Diane J. Sabatino, Executive Assistant Commissioner (Acting), Office of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border ProtectionRosanna Anderson, Principal Director (Acting), Science & Technology Directorate, Department of Homeland SecurityPatty Cogswell, Former TSA Deputy Administration (moderator)This discussion took place at the HSDF’s Symposium Defending the Frontline on June 26th, 2025. Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumOur panel of experts tackle one of their most pressing challenges: how to effectively sift through massive volumes of data flowing between CBP, TSA, and ICE to extract actionable intelligence while protecting privacy. They discuss deploying AI and machine learning at the edge, where operators often work in protected spaces with unreliable communications. Rather than developing solutions in isolation, DHS embeds data scientists directly with operational components, ensuring technologies meet real-world needs.Featuring:Diane J. Sabatino, Executive Assistant Commissioner (Acting), Office of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border ProtectionRosanna Anderson, Principal Director (Acting), Science & Technology Directorate, Department of Homeland SecurityPatty Cogswell, Former TSA Deputy Administration (moderator)This discussion took place at the HSDF’s Symposium Defending the Frontline on June 26th, 2025. Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense ForumIn this episode, General Laura Richardson (Ret.) pulls back the curtain on the complex geopolitical chess game happening in our own hemisphere. Drawing from her distinguished 40-year military career, including command of US Southern Command covering 31 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, she offers rare insights into the factors driving migration to our southern border.Featuring:•Gen. Laura Richardson, U.S. Army (Ret.), Former Commander of Southern Command•Dr. Gerri Alston-Meggett, Deputy Chief Information Officer, U.S. Secret Service This discussion took place June 26th, 2025 at HSDF’s Symposium, Defending the Frontline.Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Welcome to “HSDF THE PODCAST,” a collection of policy discussions on government technology and homeland security brought to you by the Homeland Security and Defense Forum In this episode, our panel discusses the transformation of criminal cartels into designated terrorist organizations and the implications, bilateral agreements signed by Panama and China during a 5-year period, and Chinese "investment" vs. American quality investment.   Featuring: Gen. Laura Richardson, U.S. Army (Ret.), Former Commander of Southern CommandDr. Gerri Alston-Meggett, Deputy Chief Information Officer, U.S. Secret Service  This discussion took place at the HSDF’s Symposium Defending the Frontline on June 26th, 2025. Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Pete Flores provided his “State of the Border” update to kick off the 7th Annual HSDF Border Security Symposium.  This panel explores the intricate landscape of border security, focusing on the evolving threats and the strategies employed to manage them while supporting economic growth. The episode delves into the balance between national security measures and fostering commerce amid a rapidly changing environment.Pete Flores, Acting Deputy Commissioner, CBPDavid Aguilar, Former CBP Acting and Deputy Commissioner and former Chief of Border Patrol (moderator)This discussion took place at the HSDF’s Border Security Symposium on December 11th, 2024. Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Pete Flores provided his “State of the Border” update to kick off the 7th Annual HSDF Border Security Symposium.  This episode emphasizes the importance of caring for the workforce within Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as they navigate increasing operational demands. Discussion highlights recruitment, mental health support, and strategic budgeting as essential components of a resilient and effective workforce.•Pete Flores, Acting Deputy Commissioner, CBP•David Aguilar, Former CBP Acting and Deputy Commissioner and former Chief of Border Patrol (moderator)This discussion took place at the HSDF’s Border Security Symposium on December 11th, 2024. Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Senior leaders from CBP and industry experts discuss advancements in non-intrusive inspection (NII) technology, focusing on how AI can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of detecting anomalies in cargo and passenger vehicles at the border. National security is at an intersection of technology and policy, with AI reshaping border control and data management strategies. The conversation highlights the critical need for trustworthy data, innovative infrastructure, transparency in AI deployment, and human expertise to effectively navigate the future landscape.•Diane Sabatino, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Field Operations, CBP•Matt Gilkeson, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Data Officer, TSA (invited)•Sunil Madhugiri, Chief Technology Officer, CBP•Peter Guerra, Global Vice President, Data & AI, Oracle•John Wagner, former DEAC for Field Operations, CBP (moderator)This discussion took place at the HSDF’s Border Security Symposium on December 11th, 2024. Follow  HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security.  Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion.  For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.