Former UK Defence Minister Sir Ben Wallace Joins “One Decision” Podcast with Ex-US & UK Spy Chiefs
Alexandria, VA., September 10, 2025— Sir Ben Wallace is the newest analyst on the top international affairs podcast “One Decision.” With his experience as Britain’s former Secretary of State for Defence, Wallace will bring even more high-powered perspective to “One Decision’s” unparalleled insights into high-stakes decision making at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and ever-shifting global power dynamics. He joins former head of MI6 Sir Richard Dearlove, former U.S. Secretary of Defense and Director of the Central Intelligence Agency Leon Panetta, preeminent British journalist Kate McCann, and Emmy award-winning American correspondent Christina Ruffini. Together, they will provide transatlantic views on the toughest international stories of the day and in-depth conversations with key world leaders and experts.
“I am thrilled to join the ‘One Decision’ podcast alongside former spy chiefs Sir Richard Dearlove and Leon Panetta. Our collective experiences in national security, intelligence, and defense will give listeners unique insight into what happens in the room as leaders weigh their options," said Wallace. "I hope to draw on my time as Minister of State for Security and Secretary of State for Defence, along with my years navigating U.K. politics, to help break down the intricate nuances, subtleties, and challenges driving the complex conflicts and issues emerging worldwide.
As Secretary of State for Defence, Wallace oversaw the UK's withdrawal from Afghanistan and played a crucial role in coordinating Western military support for Ukraine following Russia's invasion. He was instrumental in shaping Britain's response to evolving threats from China and Russia, advocating for increased defense spending and modernization of the UK's armed forces. Wallace has spent over two decades in public service, including his earlier tenure as a Member of Parliament and various ministerial roles.
"Ben's voice behind the microphone comes at a crucial time when we are witnessing a significant reorganization of defense priorities worldwide, " said "One Decision" executive producer Christine Baratta. “With ongoing conflicts, rising geopolitical tensions, and rapid technological advancements transforming warfare, there's no one better to break down the complex security challenges and the defense decisions made at the highest levels of government."
Wallace's first episode with Kate McCann and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert will be released on Thursday, September 11th.
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About Sir Ben Wallace
The Rt Hon Sir Ben Wallace served as UK Secretary of State for Defence from July 2019 to August 2023, overseeing Britain's response to the evacuation of Afghanistan and playing a pivotal role in coordinating Western military support for Ukraine following Russia's invasion. Wallace's career began as an Army officer, serving at Sandhurst, and later pivoting to politics, serving as a Conservative Member of Parliament for Lancaster and Wyre in 2005, and later Wyre and Preston North in 2010, before officially stepping down from Parliament in May 2024. He also held ministerial positions, including Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Northern Ireland Office and Minister of State for Security and Economic Crime.
The “One Decision” Podcast
“One Decision” is the leading global affairs podcast in the world delivering the latest geopolitical news, exclusive conversations with top decision-makers, and expert analysis from former UK and US intelligence chiefs. Hosted by British journalist and political analyst Kate McCann, Emmy award-winning American journalist and former CBS news correspondent Christina Ruffini, former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove, and former UK Secretary of State for Defence Sir Ben Wallace, along with analysis from former CIA Director and U.S. Secretary of State Leon Panetta, the podcast has topped charts in over 100 countries, with a strong following in Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. The show’s guests include former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with numerous current heads of state and ministers. “One Decision” also convenes world leaders for live podcasts, with partnerships that include the International Spy Museum in Washington D.C., the NATO Summit in The Hague, the Warsaw Security Forum, and Deutsche Welle at the Munich Security Conference.