The Defense Intelligence Agency has begun airing its "DIA Connections" podcast to share interesting, informative and sometimes overlooked content across multiple social media platforms.
"DIA Connections' is a podcast featuring the sometimes overlooked and unfamiliar stories of who we are, what we do and the countless ways DIA has impacted the lives of people globally," Army Maj. Angel K. Jackson, DIA's multimedia branch chief, said.
The three episodes produced so far are:
Episode 1: "Fentanyl"
Synthetic opioids, including fentanyl, are now the most common drugs involved in overdose deaths in the United States. This episode examines DIA's role in tracking the shadowy production and distribution networks of this lethal drug.
Episode 2: "Dale Dye"
Former Marine, actor and Hollywood technical advisor Dale Dye discusses how, after surviving 30 combat operations during the Vietnam War, he became a catalyst in changing the way Hollywood makes war movies, influencing directors Oliver Stone and Steven Spielberg.
Episode 3: "Rob Riggle"
Comedian and actor Rob Riggle sits down with Army Lt. Gen. Robert P. Ashley, Jr. DIA director, to discuss his affinity for the military and his two-decade-long entertainment career.
To access these and upcoming episodes, visit the DIA unit page on the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service. You can also find these episodes on your normal podcasting service.
Planned upcoming episodes, which DIA officials plan to air about every two weeks, except during the holidays, are:
Episode 4: "Bringing Them Home, Part 1"
DIA plays a vital role in the nation's POW/MIA intelligence support mission. This episode examines past and present efforts in locating and repatriating the remains of those lost, but not forgotten, from the Vietnam War.
Episode 5: "Bringing Them Home, Part 2"
Jessica Buchanan was an aid worker in Somalia, helping to raise awareness about how to avoid land mines. She was abducted and taken hostage by Somali land pirates for 93 days. In this episode, listeners learn about her harrowing experience and DIA's efforts with her eventual rescue.
Episode 6: "Iran Hostage Crisis"
On Nov. 4, 1979, the U.S. Embassy in Iran was overtaken by Iranian students. Fifty-three Americans were taken hostage and held in captivity for the next 444 days. Five of those hostages were from DIA's attaché office. This episode tells the story of that terrifying moment in time that captured the attention of the world with gripping recollections from DIA's own Joseph Hall.
Episode 7: "The Arctic"
The area at the top of the globe was always considered too cold, too far and too dangerous. But not anymore. The Arctic is now warming faster than any place on Earth. The sea ice that was once an obstacle is melting away. Now this emerging frontier is bustling with activity. This episode examines the developing issues and complexities of a warmer climate and the possible implications for our national security.
Why is DIA involved in this?
"Our podcast is a useful avenue to tell more stories about DIA's critical contributions to the nation," Jackson said. "Our mission is to provide intelligence on foreign militaries to prevent and win wars. Bottom line, we must know the adversary."
"We also want to shed more light on our work and talented workforce, increasing public understanding of both threats and challenges," she said. "Informing public discussions of national-security issues is more important than ever."
What has been the feedback thus far on "DIA Connections"?
"So far, we've had very good feedback to "DIA Connections." We have 5 stars on Spotify, and the comments are positive," Jackson said. "The workforce has given great feedback; and on social media, the comments are positive."
Comments include:
"Thank you for sharing this. Brilliant!!"
"Wonderful news. Just added this to my library."
"A lot of heart goes into the stories developed for 'DIA Connections,'" Jackson said. "We have people committed to providing the best military intelligence to our warfighters and decision makers. The team works hard to provide stories that not only entertain, but help the American people understand that there is so much more to the men and women who make up our workforce."