In this thought-provoking episode, Brian is joined by Lieutenant Colonel Paul Lushenko—U.S. Army strategist, drone warfare expert, and co-editor of Drones and Global Order—to explore the evolving battlefield shaped by drones and artificial intelligence.

Together, they unpack how drone warfare is changing military strategy, public perception, and international law. From Ukraine’s tactical drone advancements to the murky ethics of autonomous targeting and AI-driven decision-making, this conversation examines how lethal force is increasingly influenced by algorithms and automation.

LTC Lushenko brings clarity to complex questions:

• How do military leaders balance effectiveness with ethical constraints?

• What role should AI play in lethal decision-making?

• And are we prepared for the unintended consequences of autonomous warfare?

Whether you’re a policymaker, defense analyst, or simply curious about the future of warfare, this episode is a must-listen.

🔗 Guest Bio & Resources:
Learn more about LTC Paul Lushenko and his research:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paullushenko
Book: Drones and Global Order: Implications of Remote Warfare for International Society

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#drones #AI #militarytechnology #ethics #defensepolicy #autonomousweapons #modernwarfare #Ukraine #nationalsecurity #brianjmatos

As global alliances realign and authoritarian regimes grow bolder, is the U.S. losing its grip on the world order it once led?

In this episode, Brian welcomes back Irina Tsukerman — human rights attorney, geopolitical analyst, and president of Scarab Rising, Inc. — for a wide-ranging conversation on the evolving dynamics of international power. Irina offers sharp insights into the growing cooperation between China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, the shifting role of non-state actors, and the ideological blind spots in current U.S. foreign policy.

They discuss the rise of hybrid warfare, Eastern Europe's response to Russian aggression, and the role of economic and corporate influence in modern diplomacy. As the traditional tools of statecraft come under pressure, Irina makes the case for creative, strategic diplomacy in an increasingly fragmented world.

🔗 Learn more about Irina Tsukerman: https://www.irina-tsukerman.com

More helpful links:

• Websites: https://www.thewashingtonoutsider.com/about-us/ and https://scarabrising.com/
• X: https://twitter.com/irinatsukerman_
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irina-tsukerman-4b04595/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/IrinaTsukerman1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/irina.tsukerman

Find more episodes like this at http://www.brianjmatos.com/ and subscribe to Brian's YouTube channel for show clips and exclusive content.

Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com or DM on Twitter @BrianJMatos

In this episode, Brian speaks with Kate Howells, Public Education Specialist at The Planetary Society, editor of The Planetary Report and former member of Canada's Space Advisory Board. Kate is a leading voice in global space science advocacy, helping connect the dots between cutting-edge exploration, public engagement, and the long-term benefits of science for society.

Together, they explore the enduring value of space science, what drives public fascination with space travel, and how to keep exploration grounded in real-world impact. From national policy to citizen engagement, Kate shares her insights on where space fits into humanity’s future and why it still captures the public imagination.

Learn more about Kate Howells:

🔗 kateonearth.com
🔗 Kate’s bio at The Planetary Society
🔗 Planetary Society website

Find more episodes like this at http://www.brianjmatos.com/ and subsribe to Brian's YouTube channel for show clips and exclusive content.

Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com or DM on Twitter @BrianJMatos