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
Jan 23, 2026 • 29min
The Daily Blast: Trump Explodes in Wild Fury at Poll that Hits Him with Worst News Yet
Political theorist Alan Elrod joins the discussion, diving deep into Trump's furious backlash against negative polling. Elrod highlights how Trump's obsession with authority overshadows any concern for democratic legitimacy. They analyze the alarming immigration numbers showing public disapproval for Trump's policies, along with the implications for his 2024 coalition. The conversation also touches on the capacity of elections and institutions to check Trump's power, providing valuable insights for Democrats looking to navigate the post-Trump landscape.
Jan 22, 2026 • 41min
Words Matter: The One Big Thing We Need to Do to Save the Country
The discussion dives into the chaotic state of American politics under Trump, emphasizing his damage to NATO and international trust. There's a focus on the alarming signs of Trump's health and the nation's obsession with his potential removal. The hosts analyze failures within institutions that allowed his political survival and critique Democratic strategies in confronting these issues. They stress the need for accountability and assertiveness in political tactics, urging for reforms to safeguard democracy against future upheavals.
Jan 22, 2026 • 22min
DSR Daily January 22: Trump Strikes Greenland Deal
Trump's recent Greenland deal takes center stage as the hosts dissect reactions from Denmark and NATO. They question the substance behind the agreement. An internal ICE memo raises eyebrows, allowing home entries without warrants, leading to a discussion on constitutional implications. The new 'Board of Peace' aims for progress on Gaza, but faces skepticism from allies. Lastly, the U.S. withdrawal from WHO stirs concerns about public health and budget strains. Buckle up for a whirlwind tour of today's political landscape!
Jan 22, 2026 • 37min
Need to Know: You Can't Tell America's Global Crises Without a Scorecard
Stephen Walt, the Robert and Renee Belfer Professor of International Relations at Harvard, joins David Rothkopf to dissect Trump's foreign policy record. Walt argues that Trump's interest in Greenland signals psychological issues rather than strategic thinking. He critiques the administration's tactics of distraction and calls out the limits of military action in places like Iran and Venezuela. Walt offers a critical view on U.S. global leadership, cautioning against a withdrawal that may empower other nations. Yet, he finds hope in increasing public resistance to the administration's approach.
Jan 22, 2026 • 30min
The Daily Blast: Trump Press Sec Goes Full Cult as Reviews of Davos Fiasco Turn Brutal
Mona Charen, a conservative author and sharp critic of Trump, joins to dissect the chaos of Trump's Davos speech. They delve into the slurred, incoherent remarks including a baffling mix-up between Greenland and Iceland. Charen likens Trump’s behavior to that of a deranged ruler and critiques the sycophantic praise from press secretary Karoline Leavitt. The duo discusses the speech's dire global implications, including its potential damage to NATO and American credibility, all revealing the hollow nature of MAGA's populism.
Jan 21, 2026 • 37min
Trump at Davos and Europe's Wile E. Coyote Moment
Rosa Brooks, a law professor and foreign policy commentator, teams up with Ed Luce, a Financial Times journalist specializing in geopolitics, to dissect Donald Trump’s chaotic speech at Davos. They analyze Europe's unexpected responses to Trump's jarring rhetoric, including strain on NATO and the transatlantic relationship. The conversation dives into the potential for European strategic autonomy and the alarming implications of Trump's predator-like worldview on global stability. Expect sharp insights and serious concerns about the future of international relations.
Jan 21, 2026 • 53min
AI, Energy and Climate: Power Prices, Data Centers and the Bipartisan PJM Agreement: Peter Fox-Penner
In this engaging discussion, Peter Fox-Penner, an expert in electricity markets and former Brattle Group chair, dives into the complexities of rising power prices in the U.S. He explores the impact of data centers on electricity demand and discusses the bipartisan agreement concerning the PJM region. Peter highlights the interplay between natural gas volatility, extreme weather, and infrastructure challenges. The conversation also touches on the potential of renewables to decarbonize and lower long-term costs, alongside the uncertainties brought by AI in future energy consumption.
Jan 21, 2026 • 12min
DSR Daily January 21: Trump Gives Unhinged Davos Address
Trump's fiery speech at Davos raises eyebrows as it threatens U.S.-Europe relations. The Supreme Court's review of a controversial case involving Fed independence sparks debate. The DOJ's subpoenas targeting Minnesota officials are labeled as politically charged. Additionally, contempt proceedings against the Clintons are seen as a distraction. Finally, a striking U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan tanker raises questions about oil investments.
Jan 21, 2026 • 24min
The Daily Blast: Trump Tirades on Greenland Get So Dark that It Unnerves Medical Expert
Elizabeth Saunders, a political scientist and expert in international relations, dives into the alarming implications of President Trump's recent bizarre remarks about Greenland. She discusses how these comments reflect his disdain for multilateral alliances and how they are perceived by global leaders. Saunders highlights the concerning lack of checks on Trump's behavior and his team’s complicity. She raises the specter of 'primitive anarchy' emerging from such rhetoric, questioning the very norms of territorial integrity in international relations.
Jan 20, 2026 • 44min
Siliconsciousness: The Battle for Your Brain: A (Scary) Conversation with Nita Farahany
Nita Farahany, a renowned scholar from Duke Law School and expert on neurotechnology and mental privacy, dives deep into the implications of emerging brain data technology. She discusses how everyday devices may intrude on our thoughts and privacy. Key topics include the commercialization of brain data for targeted ads, risks of surveillance, and the ethical dilemmas faced by lawmakers. Farahany also emphasizes the need for strong regulations to protect mental privacy while considering the trade-offs posed by rapidly advancing tech.
