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#2370 - Dave Smith

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Aug 26, 2025

Guest

Dave Smith

Dave Smith, a comedian and political commentator, dives into the intricate balance between humor and political discourse. He critiques the role of fear in shaping public health narratives during the COVID-19 pandemic and reflects on the lasting impact of 9/11 on U.S. policy and civil liberties. The conversation navigates the controversial dynamics around NATO, the Ukraine conflict, and the complexities of cannabis legalization. With sharp insights and wit, Smith challenges listeners to rethink political narratives while tackling issues like youth perspectives on socialism.

02:57:36

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insights

INSIGHT

Comedians Can Influence Big Topics

Comedians can be persuasive public intellectuals even without formal credentials.
Dave Smith argues expertise is often used selectively to dismiss inconvenient views.

insights

INSIGHT

No Single Expert Fits Complex Policy

No single expert covers all fields needed for complex policy decisions.
Policy requires combining epidemiology, economics, sociology and childhood development expertise.

insights

INSIGHT

Fear Fuels Authoritarian Policy

Fear is the standard tool to push populations toward authoritarian policies.
Leaders use constant threat narratives to get people to cede authority.

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Navigating Geopolitics and Expertise

01:51 • 5min

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The Impact of Fear on Health and Decision Making

07:18 • 5min

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Reflections on 9/11: Policy, Fear, and Community

11:50 • 8min

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Neoconservatism and Its Impact on American Foreign Policy

19:49 • 4min

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Echoes of History: Music, Politics, and Journalism

24:02 • 13min

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The Politics of Image and Historical Narrative

36:45 • 3min

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Leadership Legacies: Nixon vs. Carter

39:46 • 10min

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Financial Mismanagement and the Debt Crisis

49:26 • 9min

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Geopolitical Chess: NATO, Ukraine, and Russia

58:15 • 15min

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Investigating Political Allegations and Government Accountability

01:13:23 • 4min

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Political Intrigue and Election Controversy

01:17:50 • 19min

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Navigating Political Change and Controversy

01:36:29 • 3min

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Unconventional Campaigns and Local Priorities

01:39:50 • 5min

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Youth, Media, and Shifting Perspectives

01:44:51 • 19min

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Grok Controversy and Gaza Discourse

02:03:57 • 21min

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Shifting Narratives: Power and Media Dynamics

02:24:42 • 18min

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The Complexities of Cannabis Legalization and International Diplomacy

02:42:55 • 18min

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#45253

The Manifesto of Moral Revolution

None

Jacqueline Novogratz

In "The Manifesto of Moral Revolution," Jacqueline Novogratz challenges traditional leadership models and advocates for a more collaborative and purpose-driven approach. She emphasizes the importance of patient capital, ethical investing, and fostering partnerships to address global challenges. The book explores the power of moral imagination and encourages readers to envision a more just and equitable world. Novogratz shares inspiring stories of entrepreneurs and organizations that are making a positive impact, demonstrating the potential for businesses to be forces for good. Her work inspires a shift towards conscious capitalism and a more holistic view of business success.

#5696

• Mentioned in 5 episodes

Hidden War

How Special Operations Game Wardens are Reclaiming America’s Wildlands from the Drug Cartels

John Nores

In 'Hidden War,' Lt. John Nores chronicles his time leading the California Special Operations Marijuana Enforcement Team (MET). The book details the development and effectiveness of the nation's first dedicated wildlife officer special operations units and the ongoing battle against thousands of Mexican drug cartel members who operate illegal marijuana grows on U.S. soil. Nores describes the environmental devastation, the use of banned poisons, and the extreme danger faced by game wardens in this hidden war. The book provides a firsthand account of the struggles and successes of these unsung heroes in protecting America’s wildlands from criminal activities.

#431

• Mentioned in 42 episodes

Provoked

America's Role in the Russia-Ukraine War

Darryl Cooper

Scott Horton

In 'Provoked: America's Role in the Russia-Ukraine War', Scott Horton and Darryl Cooper provide an analysis of how U.S. foreign policy decisions have influenced the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The book critiques U.S. meddling in international affairs, particularly in regions close to Russia, and argues that such actions have increased the risk of nuclear war and destabilized the region. The authors draw on their expertise in foreign policy and geopolitical analysis to present a critical view of U.S. involvement in the conflict.

#2924

• Mentioned in 10 episodes

Best evidence

Disguise and Deception in the Assassination of John F. Kennedy

David S. Lifton

In 'Best Evidence', David Lifton presents a meticulous and personal narrative of his 15-year search for the truth about the Kennedy assassination. The book argues that the conspirators who killed Kennedy altered his body and wounds to support a single-gunman theory. Lifton's research includes analysis of autopsy photographs and reports, highlighting contradictions between the Dallas and Bethesda evidence. The book is written in the first-person, detailing Lifton's journey of discovery and the challenges he faced in uncovering what he believes to be a 'medical forgery' of the President's body.

#862

• Mentioned in 26 episodes

Enough Already

Time to End the War on Terrorism

Scott Horton

#11378

• Mentioned in 3 episodes

NEOCONSERVATISM: WHY WE NEED IT

Douglas Murray

In 'Neoconservatism: Why We Need It', Douglas Murray presents a case for the importance of neoconservative ideology. The book explores the principles and applications of neoconservatism, advocating for its role in contemporary political discourse. Murray's work was well-received, with some critics noting its contribution to the global debate on political ideologies.

#10219

• Mentioned in 3 episodes

Wired

The Short Life and Fast Times of John Belushi

Bob Woodward

In 'Wired', Bob Woodward provides a detailed and investigative look into the life of John Belushi, from his early days in comedy to his meteoric rise and eventual tragic death. The book is based on interviews with over 200 people, including Belushi's family, friends, and colleagues, offering a candid portrayal of the darker side of Hollywood and the pressures of fame.

Dave Smith is a comic, political commentator, host of the "Part of the Problem" podcast, and a co-host of the "Legion of Skanks” podcast.
www.comicdavesmith.com

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