In this episode of Back in America, we sit down with David McCloskey, a former CIA analyst and the author of The Seventh Floor, Moscow X, and Damascus Station. David shares his insights on the current conflicts in the Middle East, discussing the potential for escalation and the complexities facing the intelligence community today.

We explore whether Americans are attuned to global events and how domestic issues may overshadow international concerns. David reflects on his experiences living abroad in France and the Middle East, revealing how they transformed his perspective on America’s values and place in the world.

Diving into his latest novel, The Seventh Floor, David discusses the themes of political polarization and societal fissures through the lens of his characters. He opens up about his journey from being an intelligence analyst to becoming a novelist, highlighting how writing became both a creative outlet and a means of processing his experiences.

David also talks about his writing process, the challenges of authentically portraying espionage, and how he navigates the pressures of social media as an author. We touch on his concerns about the politicization of intelligence agencies and get a sneak peek into his upcoming novel set against the backdrop of the Israel-Iran shadow war.

Finally, David shares what America means to him, emphasizing the nation’s ideals of openness and opportunity for all.

Join us for a conversation that bridges espionage, literature, and America’s identity.

His latest book The Seventh Floor can be found here
To learn more about David visit his website

In this episode of Back in America, Stan Berteloot explores the extraordinary life of Tom Peine, who left a corporate career in Germany to become a deputy sheriff in the deserts of Arizona. At 40, Tom stepped into an entirely new world, navigating America’s complex gun culture, immigration, and race dynamics from the front lines of law enforcement. His story challenges assumptions about identity, resilience, and belonging in America. Join us for a conversation on the twists and tensions of Tom’s unique journey—and what it really means to protect and serve as an outsider on the inside.

Tom's book: Deputy While Immigrant: The Story of a German Who Became a Deputy Sheriff in Arizona

In this provocative episode of Back in America, we sit down with Dr. Patti Fletcher, author of “Disruptors: Success Strategies for Women Who Break the Mold.” Dr. Fletcher challenges traditional notions of empowerment and exposes the systemic barriers holding women back in 2024 America. Drawing from her personal journey—including her family’s legacy of overcoming adversity during the Armenian genocide—she reveals why true disruption requires efficiency, effectiveness, and equity. Listen as Dr. Fletcher explains why she can’t stand the word “empower,” how women can harness their own inherent power, and what it takes to break free from antiquated status quo. If you’re ready to rethink leadership, gender dynamics, and the very language we use around women’s advancement, this episode is a must-listen.

Find Dr. Patti Fletcher's book - Disruptors: Success Strategies for Women Who Break the Mold, on Amazon
Read Back in America's exclusive interview with Dr. Patti Fletcher on Sustack.