#283 AJ - Former CIA Chief of Station Breaks Silence on Microwave Weapons - The Shawn Ryan Show Recap

Podcast: The Shawn Ryan Show

Published: 2026-02-26

Duration: 3 hr 58 min

Summary

In this episode, former CIA operative AJ shares his harrowing experiences with microwave weapons related to Havana syndrome. He discusses the profound impact of his injuries and the failures of the intelligence community in addressing these incidents.

What Happened

Shawn Ryan introduces AJ, a highly distinguished former CIA Chief of Station, emphasizing his elite status and the humility he maintains despite his accomplishments. AJ's career, marked by exceptional performance, took a tragic turn when he experienced an AHI (anomalous health incident), which has left him with severe, ongoing injuries. An anonymous letter from a fellow intelligence professional highlights AJ's capabilities and the devastating impact of the AHI on his life, stressing that AJ is emblematic of the best operatives the U.S. deploys globally.

As AJ recounts his journey, he reveals the physical and emotional toll of his injuries, describing moments of struggle that many might not expect from someone of his caliber. A letter from Congressman Rick Crawford underscores the flaws in the intelligence community's assessment of AHI incidents and the lack of adequate support for affected individuals like AJ. Both letters paint a picture of a man who, despite significant setbacks, continues to fight for his recovery and advocates for others in similar situations who remain invisible and unacknowledged in the shadows of service.

Key Insights

• AJ represents the pinnacle of CIA operatives, with a career that embodies elite performance and service.
• The AHI has left lasting injuries on AJ, which many may underestimate based on his appearance.
• The intelligence community's handling of AHI incidents has been criticized as flawed and unsound, negatively impacting those affected.
• AJ's public emergence speaks to the need for recognition and support for veterans suffering from similar health issues.