In this episode of Signals Over Noise, host Peyton interviews electrical engineer Matt about the vulnerabilities and complexities of the U.S. energy grid. They discuss the structure of the grid, the importance of substations, security risks including cyber threats, and the challenges of supply chain management in the energy sector. The conversation highlights the need for awareness of both physical and cyber threats to energy infrastructure, as well as the regulatory landscape governing utility companies.

takeaways

• The energy grid is a complex system with multiple components.
• Substations are critical for voltage regulation and are vulnerable to attacks.
• Cybersecurity is a significant concern for energy infrastructure.
• Physical security often takes a backseat to cyber threats.
• The U.S. energy grid is divided into several interconnections.
• Utility companies operate under various ownership structures.
• Supply chain issues have increased lead times for equipment replacement.
• Transformers play a crucial role in energy distribution.
• Unseen cyber threats can cause long-term damage to infrastructure.
• Systemic issues in the grid are harder to mitigate than isolated incidents.

“If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.” Canada’s PM Mark Carney dropped that line at Davos—and in 2026 it isn’t just a metaphor. It’s a warning about how power works when market access becomes conditional.

In this episode of Signals Over Noise, we break down Canada’s strategic dilemma as it tries to widen its options—including a tentative trade reset with China—while Washington signals tariff leverage that could turn an economic dispute into a North American perimeter fight.

Using the Signals Over Noise method—actions, messages, language games, outcomes—we answer the core question:

Is Canada building real strategic autonomy… or drifting into dependence as pressure rises?

You’ll learn:

• What tariffs mean when they’re used as leverage, not just economics

• What “backdoor” really means as influence and access, not just re-exporting

• Why NORAD, Five Eyes, and the Arctic are the lane most people miss

• Three futures (managed hedging, forced choice, strategic drift) and how to spot them early

• A weekly watchlist of contracts, budgets, procurement, and doctrine so you can track what’s real

If you disagree with the analysis, don’t argue the vibe—name the indicator you think I missed.

In this episode of Signals Over Noise, we delve into the complexities of ICE operations, exploring the intersection of law enforcement, homeland security, and national identity. We examine the charter baseline of ICE, the changes in kinetics and messaging, and the resulting public perception and legitimacy issues. Through real-world examples, we discuss the impact of aggressive operations, protests, and civil rights accusations, and consider potential scenarios for the future.

This episode delves into Strategic Greenland, highlighting the complex dynamics between alliance legitimacy and transactional sovereignty. It explores the mixed signals from the U.S. regarding ownership and partnership with Denmark and Greenland, and questions the future of cooperation and agreements in the region.

Welcome to "Signals Over Noise," a weekly show that cuts through the clutter of geopolitics by focusing on four key variables: actions, messages, games, and outcomes. Each episode dives into a specific region or issue, providing a clear scorecard and watch list to help you track changes over time. Whether it's the kinetic movements of Russia or the strategic alignments of China, we measure movement, not predict the future. Join us to understand the dynamics shaping our world, and contribute your insights to shape future discussions.