Common Ground

• Special Episode: "Pink Slips and Loose Lips"

  In this special episode of Common Ground, Shane, Amandalynne, and Logan dive into the counterintelligence concerns surrounding the massive federal layoffs mandated by the current administration. With thousands of federal employees being let go across agencies, including the IRS, VA, and NASA, the hosts explore how these layoffs are creating a vulnerable pool of former employees—many of whom have access to sensitive information or classified programs.These layoffs don’t just impact the individuals losing their jobs; they create a potential national security crisis as adversaries like China and Russia watch, ready to exploit the fear, uncertainty, and financial distress these former employees are experiencing. The hosts break down how these employees, already targets for foreign recruitment, may now be even more susceptible to espionage efforts.To provide insight into the psychological toll of this situation, the hosts welcome Dr. Sarah Berger, a licensed counselor and expert in occupational stress, to discuss coping strategies for laid-off federal employees and how they can maintain their mental well-being during this period of uncertainty.This episode sheds light on the intersection of economic stress, national security risks, and psychological resilience, showing why this is not just a workplace issue—it’s a matter of national importance.🎧 Subscribe & follow for more timely and critical discussions on the national security threats affecting us all. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sentineljournal.substack.com

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• TikTok... And We Won't Stop!

  TikTok isn’t just another social media app—it’s a national security threat, a psychological manipulation tool, and a digital addiction machine wrapped in one highly curated, highly addictive package. In this episode of Common Ground, Shane, Amandalynne, and Logan break down why both the left and the right should be able to agree that TikTok is a serious problem, even if they see the risks from different angles.From China’s National Security Law forcing ByteDance to hand over data, to TikTok’s AI-driven algorithm rewiring our brains for short-term gratification, the hosts expose how this platform is far more than just viral dances and funny cat videos. And to dig deeper into the psychological impact, they bring in Dr. Sarah Berger, a licensed professional counselor and expert in digital addiction, to explain exactly what TikTok is doing to our attention spans, impulse control, and mental health.It’s not about banning apps—it’s about understanding how foreign adversaries, big tech, and AI-driven social engineering are shaping the way we think, act, and perceive the world. Tune in, and let’s find some Common Ground. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sentineljournal.substack.com

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• Welcome to Common Ground: Why This Podcast Matters

  Episode Notes – Common Ground Teaser Episode Title: Welcome to Common Ground: Why This Podcast Matters Description: Welcome to Common Ground, the podcast where we push past political divides to focus on what truly matters—protecting America from foreign threats. In this teaser episode, hosts Shane McNeil and Amandalynne Davis introduce the podcast, discuss why national security is a unifying issue, and share what listeners can expect from future episodes. From the influence of China and Russia to the hidden risks of social media platforms like TikTok, we’ll be tackling the big issues in short, insightful conversations with expert guests. If you care about national security, U.S. influence, and how to stay informed in an era of information warfare, this podcast is for you. Key Takeaways: - Common Ground is about finding unity in national security issues that impact all Americans. - Adversaries like China and Russia exploit U.S. political and social divides to weaken the country from within. - Future episodes will explore topics like China’s human rights abuses and their impact on U.S. security, the true risks of TikTok, and why intelligence agencies need disagreement to function properly. - Expect bi-weekly, 10-15 minute episodes featuring expert guests and engaging discussions. Why Listen? ✔️ Get clear, non-partisan insights on major national security issues. ✔️ Understand how foreign threats impact your daily life. ✔️ Learn from experts in intelligence, policy, and diplomacy. 🔔 Subscribe now to Common Ground on your favorite podcast platform and follow The Sentinel Institute for updates! 🎙️ Hosts: - Shane McNeil – Doctoral student at IWP & Counterintelligence Policy Advisor at the Pentagon - Amandalynne Davis – Graduate student at IWP specializing in Public Diplomacy & Strategic Influence 📢 Follow The Sentinel Institute for More Updates! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sentineljournal.substack.com

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