She’s a retired CIA analyst who played a pivotal role in leading the mission to track down the notorious terrorist Abu Musab al-Zarqawi—eventually resulting in his death during a targeted airstrike in 2006. Her work as a key figure in that operation put her on the map, and since then, she has remained a respected voice in national security discussions. After her time with the CIA, she transitioned into media, offering expert insights for major outlets like CNN and BBC. She also gained wider recognition through her appearance in the acclaimed 2013 HBO documentary Manhunt, where her contributions were highlighted in detail.
Before all the fame and high-stakes intelligence work, she built her foundation in Montana, where she was born and raised. She pursued higher education at Montana State University, earning her bachelor’s degree before setting her sights on a career in intelligence. At the age of 30, she joined the CIA, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey that would define her professional legacy. Her story—from a small-town upbringing to becoming a central figure in one of the most critical counterterrorism operations—is both inspiring and a testament to her dedication.
She made the exciting announcement that her book, The Targeter, was set to be published in June 2019, giving fans something to look forward to. Back in 2013, she made a memorable appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman to discuss and promote the HBO documentary Manhunt, where her insights really stood out. Her journey, especially as detailed in The Targeter, has continued to draw attention and praise over the years. She’s definitely someone who leaves a lasting impression, whether through her writing or public appearances like the one on Letterman’s show.