February 19, 2025 • 2hr 52min
#2274 - Mike Baker
The Joe Rogan Experience
Mike Baker is a former CIA covert operations officer and current CEO of Portman Square Group, a global intelligence and security firm. He's also the host of the "President's Daily Brief" podcast which provides concise daily news updates on critical global events. This episode covers a wide range of current events and geopolitical issues, with Baker offering unique insights from his intelligence background.
#2274 - Mike Baker
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Key Takeaways
- International Relations & Foreign Policy: Baker argues that while US foreign intervention and influence may seem unethical, it's necessary because if the US doesn't exert influence globally, other hostile actors will fill that vacuum
- Government Efficiency: The new Department of Government Efficiency needs to be methodical in reviewing and reforming agencies rather than taking a "blow it all up" approach that could harm legitimate programs
- Intelligence Community: Based on Baker's CIA experience, he believes intelligence agencies need to be more transparent while still protecting truly sensitive information that could endanger operations/personnel
- JFK Files: Baker is skeptical that the upcoming JFK file release will contain any "smoking gun" evidence, suggesting embarrassing incompetence between agencies is more likely than proof of conspiracy
- Current Events: Discussion of various ongoing situations including Gaza conflict, Ukraine war, and government spending investigations, with Baker providing intelligence community perspective
Introduction
Mike Baker is a former CIA covert operations officer and current CEO of Portman Square Group, a global intelligence and security firm. He's also the host of the "President's Daily Brief" podcast which provides concise daily news updates on critical global events. This episode covers a wide range of current events and geopolitical issues, with Baker offering unique insights from his intelligence background.
Topics Discussed
Middle East Trek Recreation (0:30)
- Baker participated in a 1,100km camel trek through Saudi Arabia and Jordan recreating Lawrence of Arabia's 1917 journey
- The trek was organized to raise funds for the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund
- Baker describes the physical challenges including:
- Riding traditional camel saddles called "shadads"
- Dealing with extreme weather conditions
- Suffering injuries that forced him to withdraw early
- "It was one of those bucket list items that I just can't describe" - Mike Baker
Government Efficiency & Reform (26:02)
- Department of Government Efficiency initiatives:
- Reviewing USAID and other agency spending
- Investigating potential waste and fraud
- Reforming inefficient systems and processes
- Baker argues for a more measured approach to reform rather than wholesale dismantling
- "You can accomplish the same task...but don't give the other side ammunition by firing useful people" - Mike Baker
Gaza Conflict & US Foreign Policy (48:39)
- Discussion of Trump's proposal to "own Gaza":
- Baker sees it as potentially useful disruption forcing Arab states to respond
- Notes practical impossibility but potential diplomatic value
- Analysis of broader regional dynamics including:
- Role of Hamas and Palestinian Authority
- Arab states' changing positions
- Israeli military response
Intelligence Operations & Transparency (1:08:02)
- Baker's perspective on intelligence activities:
- Argues that influence operations are necessary reality of international relations
- Believes greater transparency possible while protecting critical secrets
- Discusses historical examples from Cold War era
- "Of course we're trying to influence hearts and minds...what did you expect?" - Mike Baker
JFK Assassination Files (2:28:30)
- Upcoming release of classified files:
- Baker skeptical of major revelations
- Suggests files may show inter-agency failures
- Discusses various conspiracy theories
- Analysis of Lee Harvey Oswald background including:
- Soviet Union defection attempt
- Intelligence agency monitoring
- Questions about his capabilities
Current Media & Information Landscape (2:49:42)
- Discussion of modern media challenges:
- Difficulty distinguishing truth from disinformation
- Role of social media in spreading narratives
- Need for factual, concise news coverage
- Baker promotes his "President's Daily Brief" show as attempting to provide straight news without opinion
Conclusion
The conversation provides unique insight into current geopolitical events through the lens of Baker's intelligence background. While acknowledging valid criticisms of US foreign policy and intelligence activities, Baker argues for their necessity in maintaining global stability while advocating for increased transparency where possible. The discussion highlights the complex balance between national security interests and public accountability in modern governance.
