The DSR Network
The DSR Network
This podcast will take you on a smart, direct, sometimes scary, sometimes profane, sometimes hilarious tour of the inner workings of American power and of the impact of our leaders and their policies on our standing in the world. Hosted by noted author and commentator David Rothkopf and featuring regulars Rosa Brooks of Georgetown Law School, Kori Schake of AEI, and Ed Luce of the Financial Times, the program will be the lively, smart dinner table conversation on the big issues of the day that you wish you were having...without the calories. Sometimes special guests will join the conversation and always the emphasis will be on providing the unvarnished perspectives others shy away from. Deep State Radio is the insider perspective on American national security and foreign policy that you can't find anywhere else.If you are enjoying this podcast, please consider becoming a member by visiting thedsrnetwork.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 31, 2025 • 20min
The Daily Blast: Trump Hit by Harsh Blow from Fed Chair as Polls Reveal Fresh Weakness
In this discussion, James Downie, an MSNBC.com columnist and author, shares insights on the political landscape amidst President Trump's mounting challenges. He highlights Trump's declining approval ratings, particularly regarding economic management linked to tariffs. The conversation dives into the urgency for Democrats to seize the moment and adapt their strategies in light of these shifts. Downie emphasizes the importance of voter enthusiasm among Democrats, despite their approval struggles, as they prepare for the midterm elections.
5 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 28min
Hard Truths About the Hell of Gaza
Jeremy Konyndyk, the President of Refugees International and a former USAID official, discusses the harrowing reality in Gaza. He outlines the imminent threat of famine facing thousands of Palestinians. The conversation delves into the human-made nature of the crisis, emphasizing the disconnect between policymakers and the dire conditions on the ground. Konyndyk also analyzes the political strategies at play in the region and critiques how media narratives shape public understanding of the situation, underscoring the need for global accountability.
4 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 41min
Need to Know: The Mission: A Vital Look at an Intel Community Adrift
Tim Weiner, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author, dives into the dramatic evolution of the CIA and U.S. intelligence in the 21st century. He discusses how the agency has struggled to adapt amid political pressures, especially post-9/11 and during the Trump era. Weiner highlights concerning cuts to intelligence capabilities and the risks of losing experienced personnel. The conversation also touches on the vital role literature plays in understanding these complex issues, urging listeners to stay engaged with the challenges facing democracy.
4 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 22min
The DSR Daily for July 30: The UK Moves to Recognize Palestinian State
The UK plans to recognize a Palestinian state amid escalating crises in Gaza, prompting a vital conversation about humanitarian intervention. A massive earthquake off Russia’s Far East raises questions about disaster response and climate change preparedness. The Senate confirmation of Emil Bove stirs controversy, intertwining ethics with climate policy challenges. Meanwhile, discussions around Trump and Epstein revive unsettling concerns regarding underage victims and media accountability.
4 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 28min
The Daily Blast: Paul Krugman Brutally Wrecks Trump’s Europe Deal: “Scam on His Voters”
Join economist and Nobel laureate Paul Krugman as he critiques Trump's new trade deal with the EU, shedding light on its misleading benefits. He argues that European concessions are more illusion than reality, warning that the deal is a 'scam on his voters.' Krugman also exposes how new tariffs will burden American households, especially the poor, and reveals the potential harm to U.S. manufacturing, particularly in key regions. His analysis highlights the media’s failure to accurately report on the economic implications of Trump's policies.
Jul 29, 2025 • 45min
Siliconsciousness: An In-Depth Look at the Administration's AI Action Plan and Its Implications
Michelle De Mooy, Director of the Tech and Public Policy Program at Georgetown, dives into the nuances of the Trump administration's AI Action Plan. She discusses the tug-of-war between federal and state regulations on AI, highlighting the urgent need for cohesive governance amid rapid tech advancements. The conversation also tackles the complexities of intellectual property rights for AI-generated content and the challenges of integrating ethics into public policy education, emphasizing the importance of a well-informed future generation.
5 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 24min
The DSR Daily for July 29: Disastrous Famine Imminent in Gaza
Listeners are confronted with the impending famine crisis in Gaza, examining its dire humanitarian implications and the role of international powers. The discussion shifts to the complex ties between the U.S. and Israel, urging a reassessment of policies amidst ongoing violence. A tragic shooting in Manhattan raises alarms about gun violence and the need for reform. Finally, tensions surface at Harvard University as negotiations with the Trump administration spark concerns over academic independence and the broader implications of religious expression in federal employment.
Jul 29, 2025 • 24min
The Daily Blast: Trump Accidentally Wrecks His Own Epstein Lie as Musk Goes for Jugular
Jennifer Rubin, editor-in-chief of The Contrarian, dives into the contradictions in President Trump's comments about the Epstein scandal. She argues that Trump's claims about elite Democrats visiting Epstein only weaken his narrative that it's a Democratic hoax. The discussion also touches on Elon Musk’s speculation about Trump potentially pardoning Ghislaine Maxwell, exposing Trump's vulnerabilities. Rubin emphasizes the urgency for Democratic victories in the face of elite corruption and the importance of transparency to combat misinformation.
Jul 28, 2025 • 17min
The DSR Daily for July 28: US/EU Trade Deal Reached
Discover the details of a newly reached trade deal between the US and EU, highlighting mixed reactions and its significance for global trade. Explore the recent ceasefire in the Thailand-Cambodia conflict, revealing the role of U.S. and Chinese diplomacy. Delve into Texas political maneuvers as a super PAC prepares to combat redistricting threats. Lastly, ponder the ethical implications of Qatar gifting a Boeing jet to the U.S. Defense Department, uncovering the hidden influences of international relations.
Jul 28, 2025 • 23min
The Daily Blast: “Sham”: Trump Just Made Epstein Fiasco Even More Humiliating for MAGA
In this discussion, lawyer Philip Rotner, a contributor to The Bulwark, dives into the shocking implications of President Trump's suggestion to pardon Ghislaine Maxwell. He reveals how Trump's legal maneuvers, including reaching out to Maxwell, may aim to shield himself rather than uncovering the truth behind Epstein's activities. Rotner argues that this sets a humiliating precedent for MAGA supporters, who've clamored for transparency but now face a strange cover-up instead. The conversation underscores the tangled web of politics and justice surrounding these figures.
