#230 - The Most Powerful Shadow Group of Spies & Assassins That Run the World | Christian Hansen & Zach Treitz
Mar 25, 2024
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Explore the tangled web of conspiracy theories surrounding shadow organizations, arms dealing, and intelligence operations. Uncover mysteries from the Vietnam War, CIA connections, and deceptions in historical events. Dive into the world of espionage, nuclear submarines, and the power of surveillance software. Journey through tales of intrigue, espionage, and investigative journalism in a captivating narrative of unsolved mysteries and government secrets.
03:26:01
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Quick takeaways
The success of 'American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders' in gaining viewership attests to its impressive impact on the audience.
The strong partnership between the creators, Christian and Zach, is rooted in a long history of camaraderie and collaboration.
The host's investigative journey showcases a progression from freelance work to professional journalism, marked by encounters that shape their investigative path.
The commuter collection by Rhone provides versatile, durable, and odor-resistant clothing suitable for various occasions.
Accurate storytelling is emphasized, urging the need for credible information, names, dates, and details to maintain narrative coherence and credibility.
Deep dives
The Success of the Netflix Documentary
The creators of the Netflix documentary receive positive feedback as their show gains popularity. The documentary secures millions of views, reaching top 10 rankings in multiple countries and peaking at number two in the US, following 'Avatar: The Last Airbender.' The success is particularly notable for a small-scale production, showcasing a humble yet significant achievement.
Years of Friendship and Collaboration
The friendship between the creators is traced back to their early adulthood, with collaborative efforts starting as early as 2012. The duo's working dynamic is established over a period of discussions and information sharing, leading to seamless partnership when officially delving into the project. Their shared history serves as a foundation for their successful teamwork.
Investigative Journalism Journey
The host's investigative journey unfolds as a timeline of personal and professional growth. Transitioning from freelance photography to a journalism degree, they uncover compelling investigative leads during their college years. Delving into topics like the role of money in politics, they navigate experiences with the New York Times, college assignments, and encounters that shape their journalistic path.
Rohn's Versatile Clothing Collection
Rohn's commuter collection offers breathable, flexible, and versatile clothing items suitable for various occasions. The clothing pieces are designed to be flexible and durable, with features like wrinkle release technology and anti-odor treatment, making them ideal for everyday wear from commutes to the office or casual outings.
Importance of Accurate Storytelling
Accurate storytelling is emphasized, highlighting the significance of having a logical and chronologically coherent account of events. The need for first-hand information with names, dates, and accurate details is underscored to maintain credibility. Misinformation and misdirection from sources can complicate the storytelling process, leading to the importance of corroborating information for a comprehensive narrative.
Uncovering Connections in Intricate Investigations
The podcast delves into intricate investigations involving key figures like Michael Rakhana-Shudo and Robert Booth Nichols. These figures have ties to espionage, business dealings, and complex historical events, creating a web of connections that impact narratives like the October Surprise and Iran-Contra scandals. Uncovering these connections sheds light on how money, power, and intelligence intertwine in covert operations and historical events.
Connection Between CIA Spies and Reagan's Administration
Ex-CIA spies, displeased with being ousted during Carter's administration, potentially contributed to Reagan's rise with figures like William Casey and George H. W. Bush. The Iran-Contra affair showcases former intelligence personnel collaborating with Reagan's administration, structuring a private supply network that echoes the privatization of military intelligence, aligning with Reagan's views on government intervention.
Promise Software's Impact and Controversy
The Promise software, initially developed for the Justice Department, evolved into a powerful data mining tool with functionalities to organize, sort, and analyze extensive information efficiently. It identified patterns in criminal cases aiding in investigations. However, its broader application involved surveillance activities by intelligence agencies worldwide, exploiting backdoors in sold software. The complexity and reach of Promise extended to global surveillance networks and capabilities beyond conventional databases, engaging in secretive and controversial operations in national security contexts.
Investigation into Danny's Death and Suspicious Circumstances
Mysterious circumstances surrounding Danny's death are explored, highlighting encounters with a person named Quare who was linked to threatening behavior towards individuals involved in investigating Danny's case. Questions arise about Quare's potential involvement and suspicious actions, including threats to stop inquiries and evading detection at critical moments, hinting at a possible cover-up or ulterior motives.
Challenges Faced During Documentary Production and Response to Criticisms
The filmmakers discuss challenges faced during the production of the documentary, including exhaustive research, skepticism, and dealing with emerging information after its release. They address criticisms and misinformation about their work, emphasizing the extensive efforts put into uncovering hidden truths and engaging with complex narratives. Despite facing backlash, they stand by their investigative approach and commitment to revealing unseen layers of the story.
Watch the PRE-SHOW on Patreon: https://patreon.com/dannyjones Zachary Treitz & Christian Hansen are the creators of the new Netflix documentary 'American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders'. SPONSORS: https://mudwtr.com/danny - Try it now for only $29. (that's less than $1 per cup) https://www.rhone.com/danny - Upgrade your closet with Rhone and use DANNY to save 20% EPISODE LINKS: Christian IG: https://www.instagram.com/christianhitehansen Christian X: https://twitter.com/yo_christian Zach IG: https://www.instagram.com/snackery_treats Zach X: https://twitter.com/zacharytreitz FOLLOW DANNY JONES https://www.instagram.com/dannyjones https://twitter.com/jonesdanny OUTLINE 00:00 - The Wackenhut Corporation 08:48 - Making The Octopus documentary 17:03 - Christian's belief about Danny Castolaro 28:57 - Are Chris & Zach in danger? 35:02 - The mysterious man at Danny's funeral 44:24 - Cabazon indian reservation & covert ops 59:52 - Trusting sources 01:06:26 - The CIA arms dealer 01:17:42 - Howard Hughes CIA connection 01:21:10 - Zapruder film deception tactic 01:29:31 - Bob Lazar; Area 51 hand scanner 01:34:32 - Michael Riconosciuto 01:36:58 - Tom O'Neill; Chaos; MK-Ultra 01:40:26 - The PROMIS software 01:45:04 - Earl Brian 01:50:55 - Rigging of the 1980 election; October surprise 02:03:37 - $2 million Dec Vax computers 02:08:21 - How powerful was the PROMIS software? 02:13:20 - Israeli Intelligence; the Mossad 02:20:03 - Nuclear submarines 02:31:27 - Investigating intelligence is a "hall of mirrors" 02:36:04 - Chris & Zach's conclusion on Danny Casolaro 02:40:34 - The man who most likely killed Danny 02:53:57 - Backlash & criticism 03:08:15 - Maintaining sanity while making the film 03:14:03 - The future of The Octopus Investigation
