Will Hurd
Ken sits down with Will Hurd, former Congressman, CIA officer, and Chief Strategy Officer at Chaos Industries, for a wide-ranging conversation on national security, defense innovation, and the future of American leadership.
With a career spanning covert operations, tech policy, and public service, Hurd brings a rare blend of intelligence and candor to the table. In this episode, he unpacks the challenges facing the U.S. as it navigates rapid advances in AI, evolving global threats, and a deeply divided political landscape.
From leading cybersecurity initiatives in Congress to shaping strategy at a cutting-edge defense tech firm, Hurd shares what it takes to build trust, modernize institutions, and keep the U.S. competitive on the global stage. His stories, spanning CIA missions, bipartisan road trips, and startup innovation, highlight the power of showing up, listening, and leading with integrity.
From CIA to Congress Hurd reflects on how his intelligence background shaped his approach to public service, and why real leadership means making the tough calls, not just the popular ones.
AI, Cyber, and Modern Threats As one of the earliest voices calling for smart AI regulation, Hurd breaks down what’s at stake, and how America can lead responsibly without stifling innovation.
The Chaos Industries Playbook Now in the private sector, Hurd explains how Chaos Industries is bridging the gap between national security needs and startup speed, reimagining how defense innovation happens.
Bipartisanship in Action From legislation to long drives with political rivals, Hurd shares what it actually looks like to work across the aisle, and why trust is still the most valuable currency in Washington.
The Case for Optimism Despite political gridlock, Hurd remains hopeful. He makes the case for a new generation of leaders who prioritize country over party and outcomes over optics.
Will Hurd offers a forward-looking, pragmatic perspective on the forces reshaping America’s role in the world. With firsthand experience in intelligence, government, and tech, he’s uniquely positioned to talk about what’s broken, and what’s possible.
“Winning the future isn’t about changing who we are- it’s about getting back to the values that made us great: honesty, service, and showing up.”
Whether you’re a policymaker, technologist, or citizen who wants to see things done differently, this episode is a powerful reminder that progress starts with participation.
