John Kiriakou Interviews

DeProgram: John Kiriakou Joe Rogan Experience (JRE #2392 Breakdown) In this essential episode of DeProgram, we dive deep into former CIA counter-terrorism officer and whistleblower John Kiriakou's latest—and possibly final—appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience (#2392). Kiriakou is the only CIA official to be incarcerated for confirming the agency's use of waterboarding—which he has famously labeled as torture—and for passing classified information to a reporter. We break down the most controversial, revelatory, and necessary moments from his conversation with Joe Rogan. What you need to know about this episode: The War on Whistleblowers: We analyze Kiriakou's unique status as the only person imprisoned in connection with the CIA's torture program, despite never having performed torture himself. Why was he targeted while those who implemented the program went free? Torture vs. "Enhanced Interrogation": A full review of Kiriakou's on-the-ground experience following 9/11, his role in the capture of Abu Zubaydah, and his refusal to participate in the "enhanced interrogation techniques." The Legal Fallout: We discuss the specifics of Kiriakou's conviction under the Intelligence Identities Protection Act (IIPA) and the Obama administration's record on prosecuting leakers. The Reality of Washington Leaks: Kiriakou's assertion that Washington runs on leaks—both authorized and unauthorized—and how his disclosure was used to make an example of him. Changing the CIA: A look at Kiriakou's advice for young people joining the agency and his belief that real change must come from within.