The Jordan Harbinger Show

David C. Smalley, a fact-checker, comedian, and podcast host, dives deep into the dark side of chocolate. He and Jordan explore alarming issues like child labor, labor exploitation, and environmental damage tied to cocoa production. Smalley reveals that many chocolate farmers earn less than $1 a day, while children are ensnared in a cycle of modern slavery. They also discuss the troubling presence of heavy metals in chocolate and highlight the importance of fair trade practices, urging listeners to make mindful choices in their chocolate consumption.

This engaging discussion tackles the stigma faced by relationships with foreign partners, encouraging listeners to prioritize love over societal judgment. The hosts delve into the intricacies of parenthood and share practical insights for expecting parents, blending humor with guidance. They also address the challenges of navigating tenant rights against unsavory landlords and explore the emotional turmoil of recovering from abusive relationships. Plus, there’s a dive into the complex feelings surrounding the Chinese Communist Party's influence on overseas citizens.

Mitch Lowe, co-founding executive of Netflix and former CEO of MoviePass, shares a wealth of knowledge on industry disruption. He discusses Netflix's innovative marketing strategies and highlights the rapid success of Redbox, detailing how a kiosk was installed every hour for three years. Mitch also reveals the peculiar lengths he went to escape a meeting with Walmart executives, and shares insights on overcoming obstacles from entrenched business interests. His experiences underscore the importance of adaptation in the ever-evolving entertainment landscape.

Mitch Lowe, a co-founding executive of Netflix and former CEO of MoviePass, shares his fascinating journey from selling blacklight posters in Europe to revolutionizing the entertainment industry. He recounts eyebrow-raising tales, like his deportation from Egypt after a spy incident and a questionable heart attack act to dodge a meeting with Walmart. Mitch also dives into his experiences in the Middle East, highlighting the complexities of conflict and connection. His insights into innovation at Netflix provide a behind-the-scenes look at how disruption reshaped media consumption.

Dive into a conversation about overcoming the emotional scars from a narcissistic mother while celebrating personal success. Discover the challenges faced by a grad student grappling with the perception of arrogance among peers, and the importance of self-awareness. Enjoy humorous anecdotes about living with unconventional roommates and the lessons learned. Explore the ethical dilemmas of travel influenced by societal issues, sparking reflection on moral boundaries. A thought-provoking blend of personal growth, resilience, and ethical considerations awaits!

Ramy Romany, an Emmy Award-winning director and Egyptologist, takes listeners on a captivating journey through ancient Egypt's mysteries. He shares personal anecdotes about growing up amidst the history and challenges of documentary filmmaking while discussing the architectural brilliance of the Great Pyramid and King Tut. Ramy also touches on the cultural shifts during the Arab Spring, the complexities of historical narratives, and his harrowing experience escaping political turmoil in Egypt. The episode blends humor, history, and heartfelt reflections on family and identity.

Apolo Ohno, an eight-time Olympic medalist and author, discusses the influence of his single dad on his athletic journey, channeling energy into success. He reveals his struggles with self-sabotage despite peak achievements and shares lessons from a silver medal that came from an unexpected crash. Apolo emphasizes the need for sustainable habits over superstitions and explores the mental fortitude essential in competitive sports. He candidly addresses the journey of identity and purpose after retirement, highlighting personal growth and the importance of vulnerability in leadership.

Family dynamics take center stage as the hosts tackle a listener's concerns about attending a funeral with a potentially dangerous brother-in-law. They dissect the tensions surrounding emotional gatherings, offering humorous yet practical advice. The conversation then shifts to navigating infidelity in a long-distance relationship, highlighting personal growth amid cultural dislocation. Workplace favoritism also gets a look-in, with insights on ethical dilemmas and career choices. It's a blend of light-hearted banter and serious life lessons!

Peter Zeihan, a geopolitical strategist and author, discusses the impending collapse of globalization and its impact on global economies. He explains how recent advancements have led to a world of instant accessibility, yet warns of the dangers if nations suddenly must become self-sufficient. Zeihan explores demographic shifts, particularly in the U.S. and China, and the fragility of global supply chains. He emphasizes that only a few countries may successfully adapt to these changes and discusses necessary preparations for a chaotic future.

Chris Fenton, an expert on Chinese influence in Hollywood and author of "Feeding the Dragon," dives deep into the intricate dynamics between the two. He discusses how the Chinese government pressures American studios to create propaganda, altering film content to fit political agendas. Fenton reveals the creative struggles filmmakers face to appease censors while maintaining artistic integrity and shares insights on how Hollywood can resist these pressures. Anecdotes from Fenton's own experiences highlight the multi-layered tug-of-war over storytelling and censorship.