Inside the Intelligence World: Former CIA officer breaks down spies and conspiracies in Global Briefing Series

Inside the Intelligence World: Former CIA officer breaks down spies and conspiracies in Global Briefing Series

Friday, January 24, 2025

Media Contact: Hailey Rose Viars | Communications Specialist | 405-744-5496 | [email protected]

The Oklahoma State University School of Global Studies recently welcomed former CIA officer John Sipher back to campus for the first Global Briefing Series event of 2025.

With a career spanning 28 years in the CIA, Sipher is a seasoned expert in intelligence, national security and covert operations. Having served in key leadership positions across multiple regions, including Europe and the Middle East, Sipher's experience managing intelligence networks and operations has given him an unparalleled understanding of the intelligence community's role in global security. 

In his retirement, Sipher continues to influence the intelligence field as a speaker, author and consultant. He shares his knowledge as the host of iHeart Podcasts 'Mission Implausible,' co-founder of Spycraft Entertainment, nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center, and author of articles about foreign policy and intelligence published in the likes of The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, Foreign Affairs, and many more.

In his OSU presentation, titled "Spies, Conspiracies, and Hollywood," Sipher brought a unique perspective to the intersection of espionage, media and public perception, shedding light on the real-world complexities of intelligence work in contrast to Hollywood's dramatic portrayals. He explored how spycraft is often romanticized and sensationalized in films and television while highlighting the intelligence world's gritty and nuanced realities.

He discussed the psychological and strategic aspects of espionage, providing a behind-the-scenes look at how intelligence operations unfold and how they are often shaped by politics, ethics, and international relations. His presentation also touched on popular culture's influence in shaping public understanding of covert operations and global security issues.

The Global Briefing Series, organized by the School of Global Studies, provides a platform for thought-provoking discussions, providing students and the broader community with opportunities to engage with experts on a range of global issues. To learn more about OSU Global and stay updated on more events like this, visit the website.

Watch Sipher's Global Briefing - "Spies, Conspiracies, and Hollywood" - here.

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