Master Plan
The Lever
A secret plot. A public theft. A democracy corrupted.
Discover the truth on Master Plan, the winner of the 2025 National Press Club Award for audio journalism. Hosted by David Sirota, former speechwriter for Bernie Sanders and Oscar-nominated co-writer of Don’t Look Up, Master Plan uncovers a deliberate scheme to legalize corruption in the U.S., enabling the wealthy to buy policies that serve them at the public’s expense.
How did our democracy become a kleptocracy? The Lever has unearthed never-before-reported documents revealing this 50-year plot as a coordinated effort by wealthy individuals and political ideologues. Across 11 episodes, the series traces this historic thread from the Watergate scandal in the ’70s to the Citizens United decision, current Supreme Court outrages, and the 2024 election. It’s a story of infamous figures like President Richard Nixon, Senator Mitch McConnell, and Fox News founder Roger Ailes—plus operatives and oligarchs you’ve never heard of.
www.masterplanpodcast.com
Discover the truth on Master Plan, the winner of the 2025 National Press Club Award for audio journalism. Hosted by David Sirota, former speechwriter for Bernie Sanders and Oscar-nominated co-writer of Don’t Look Up, Master Plan uncovers a deliberate scheme to legalize corruption in the U.S., enabling the wealthy to buy policies that serve them at the public’s expense.
How did our democracy become a kleptocracy? The Lever has unearthed never-before-reported documents revealing this 50-year plot as a coordinated effort by wealthy individuals and political ideologues. Across 11 episodes, the series traces this historic thread from the Watergate scandal in the ’70s to the Citizens United decision, current Supreme Court outrages, and the 2024 election. It’s a story of infamous figures like President Richard Nixon, Senator Mitch McConnell, and Fox News founder Roger Ailes—plus operatives and oligarchs you’ve never heard of.
www.masterplanpodcast.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
4 snips
Sep 10, 2024 • 48min
The Secret Task Force
Dive into the intrigue behind Lewis Powell’s memo as it transforms from a simple document to a strategic master plan. Discover how corporate executives and politicians convened in secret to shape America's political landscape in the 1970s. Uncover the role of influential media figures and business leaders in crafting narratives that influence public perception. Explore the rise of conservative movements and their efforts to rebrand capitalism, all while examining the intertwining of corporate power and politics that altered the course of history.
33 snips
Sep 3, 2024 • 53min
The Powell Memo
Discover the intriguing legacy of Lewis Powell Jr., a seemingly moderate Supreme Court Justice linked to corporate manipulation. Dive into the shocking Powell Memo, which reveals strategies for corporate dominance in politics. Explore how the tobacco industry's tactics shaped Powell's career and the dramatic marketing campaigns they employed. Uncover the political maneuvers behind Powell's confirmation and the ongoing implications of his judicial decisions that continue to influence American business practices today.
17 snips
Aug 27, 2024 • 44min
The Other Watergate
Dive into the fascinating untold story behind Watergate, where corporate bagmen and illegal cash flows ruled the scene. Discover how Nixon's efforts to cover corruption contradicted his own campaign finance laws. Learn about G. Gordon Liddy’s clever manipulation of campaign finances and how it shaped party practices. Uncover the role of Common Cause in fighting for transparency amidst secrecy and the significant document, 'Rosemary's Baby', revealing staggering undisclosed donations. Reflect on the aftermath that sparked a call for reform in political accountability.
13 snips
Aug 27, 2024 • 34min
Milk Money
Discover how corruption seeped into American politics starting in the vibrant 1970s. Hear about a secret mogul's influence on the judiciary and a puzzling campaign finance scheme linked to the dairy industry. Explore the disheartening contrast between U.S. and Canadian prescription drug prices and the advocates fighting for change. Delve into Nixon's controversial ties with the milk lobby and how fluctuating milk prices symbolize broader political corruption. Unravel the intricate web of money influencing democracy and eroding public trust.
Aug 5, 2024 • 2min
Trailer — Legalizing Corruption
A secret plot. A public theft. A democracy corrupted.Discover the truth. The first two episodes of Master Plan, a new podcast from The Lever, will be available on August 27 wherever you get your podcasts.Listen early and ad-free at masterplanpodcast.com
