Marking the beginning of an important series dedicated to examining various international security and defense topics. This book aims to provide in-depth analysis and foster a better understanding of critical global issues such as counterterrorism and geopolitical developments. The book consists of transcripts from DEEP Dive Podcasts, created by the Global Threats Advisory Group led by Dr Sajjan Gohel, with the assistance of Marcus Andreopoulos and Victoria Jones. The NATO DEEP eAcademy Team, led by Piotr Gawliczek, along with Magdalena Stabla, Jakub Niewelt, and Jarosław Jr. Tokarczyk, are the editors of this newly launched book. NATO DEEP Dive also seeks to engage and draw on the experiences of academics, journalists, and policy practitioners, offering readers a unique perspective on what has shaped their careers. Through these interviews, the book delves into the current and future research of these experts, providing a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in the field.