The Professionals Podcast

How do you become an FBI and CIA agent? Ask Tracy Walder.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Amanda and Luke interview Tracy Walder, a former CIA officer and FBI special agent, who shares her unique career path and insights into the world of intelligence and national security. Tracy discusses her transition from the CIA to the FBI, the importance of soft skills in the intelligence field, and the evolving threats in national security, particularly in cybersecurity. She also provides a glimpse into her day-to-day life in the CIA and the significance of building trust in intelligence gathering. Finally, Tracy talks about her book, 'The Unexpected Spy,' which offers a narrative approach to her experiences in the intelligence community. In this conversation, Tracy Walder shares her experiences transitioning from the CIA to the FBI, discussing the challenges she faced, particularly as a woman in a male-dominated field. She reflects on the cultural differences between the two agencies, the sexism she encountered, and the leadership lessons she learned throughout her career. Tracy emphasizes the importance of listening as a leadership skill and encourages aspiring professionals to take the first step in pursuing careers in intelligence and law enforcement. She also shares her current projects and the significance of representation in national security roles.

Episode Notes

• Tracy Walder's career path includes roles in both the CIA and FBI.
• Many students self-select out of applying for intelligence jobs due to misconceptions.
• Soft skills are crucial for success in intelligence roles.
• The landscape of threats in national security is constantly evolving.
• Building trust is essential in intelligence gathering.
• The transition from CIA to FBI is not common but can happen.
• Cybersecurity is a growing concern in national security.
• Pop culture influences perceptions of intelligence work.
• Tracy's book offers a narrative approach to her spy experiences.
• The worst outcome of applying for a job is simply being told no. I learned that I was very naive.
• The transition from CIA to FBI revealed cultural differences.
• Law enforcement culture is different from intelligence culture.
• Women faced significant challenges in law enforcement historically.
• Listening is a crucial leadership skill.
• Quiet leaders can be effective leaders.
• Taking a moment to calm down can prevent miscommunication.
• Aspiring professionals should simply apply for positions.
• Representation in national security roles is important.
• Breaking down complex issues can help inform the public.

Chapters 

• 00:00 Introduction to High-Stakes Intelligence Work
• 02:24 Tracy Walder's Unique Career Path
• 05:54 Transitioning from CIA to FBI
• 08:25 Pursuing Careers in Homeland Security
• 11:51 The Evolving Threat Landscape
• 14:37 Day-to-Day Life in the CIA
• 18:23 Building Trust in Intelligence Gathering
• 19:50 The Unexpected Spy: A Narrative Approach
• 21:16 Transitioning from CIA to FBI: Lessons Learned
• 24:23 Navigating Gender Challenges in Law Enforcement
• 27:49 Leadership Lessons from Intelligence Agencies
• 32:23 Starting a Career in Intelligence and Law Enforcement
• 35:25 Current Projects and Future Aspirations