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, 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: Women in Homeland Security and Defense.

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 Command
• Dr. Gerri Alston-Meggett, Deputy Chief Information Officer, U.S. Secret Service

This discussion took place at the HSDF’s Symposium Defending the Frontline: Women in Homeland Security and Defense 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, 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.