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
Oct 3, 2025 • 23min
The Daily Blast: Chris Murphy’s Extraordinary New Takedown of Trump Should Wake Up Dems
Senator Chris Murphy, a U.S. Senator from Connecticut and a fierce advocate for democracy, tackles Donald Trump's recent authoritarian moves. He urges Democrats to creatively use their power to combat Trump's lawlessness and corruption. Murphy warns that many Democrats are alarmingly quiet due to fears of sounding extreme. He provides specific strategies to protect democracy during budget negotiations, emphasizing the urgency of pushing back against Trump's threats to Blue America.
Oct 2, 2025 • 36min
Siliconsciousness: Why Responsible AI Begins with Each of Us
Dr. Julia Stoyanovich, an Institute Associate Professor at NYU and Director of the Center for Responsible AI, emphasizes the urgent need for responsible AI development. She discusses how appropriate guardrails can foster innovation while protecting those vulnerable to AI harms. Julia argues for immediate regulation and highlights the diverse risks AI presents. She stresses public education on AI literacy and collective action as essential for reclaiming decision-making power in an age of rapid technological change. Engaging families in shaping values around technology is also crucial.
Oct 2, 2025 • 16min
DSR Daily October 2: Trump Freezes Blue State Funding
The podcast dives into the political maneuvering as the administration freezes $26 billion in blue state funding, highlighting its implications for governance. It also discusses Hamas's firm rejection of a U.S./Israel ceasefire plan, citing major disagreements over disarmament. Additionally, the Supreme Court's decision to allow Lisa Cook to remain in her position as a Federal Reserve member while legal matters unfold is examined. The episode wraps up with a look at rising consumer costs and initiatives for U.S.-made clothing.
Oct 2, 2025 • 23min
The Daily Blast: Trump Accidentally Admits He Screwed MAGA Voters as Econ News Worsens
This installment features Alex Shephard, Senior Editor at The New Republic, who dives into the economic fallout from Trump's trade wars affecting his core supporters. He discusses how tariffs have shifted costs onto consumers and reveals alarming job losses, suggesting that the Democrats might gain leverage in the looming government shutdown. Shephard analyzes Trump's vulnerability as the economy worsens and argues that Democrats should use this moment to strengthen their position against him in the upcoming midterms.
Oct 2, 2025 • 41min
NTK: Wait, Is There Actually Hope for the Media?
In this discussion, media experts Jeff Jarvis and Dan Froomkin delve into the state of American journalism amidst rising authoritarianism. They explore whether Jimmy Kimmel's recent actions provide a glimmer of hope for media reform. Jarvis expresses concern over mass media's failures and warns of right-wing takeovers, while Froomkin highlights grassroots public outrage as a catalyst for journalists' independence. They also debate the challenges of covering issues like Christian nationalism and the implications of media oligopolies, envisioning a future where independent platforms thrive.
Oct 1, 2025 • 29min
Former Generals React to Trump-Hegseth Quantico Speeches
Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Generals Doug Lute and Mark Hertling join David Rothkopf and Ed Luce to dissect Trump and Hegseth's provocative speeches at Quantico. They share their thoughts on the contrasting tones of pep rallies versus military professionalism. The discussion dives into the dangerous messages within the speeches, particularly concerning diversity and military readiness. Hertling warns against regressing to outdated training practices, while Lute highlights the importance of promoting disagreement and discipline in military values.
Oct 1, 2025 • 23min
DSR Daily October 1: US Government Begins Shutdown
The podcast dives into the US government shutdown, exploring political blame and its impact on services. It discusses Trump's provocative speech at Quantico, suggesting militarization in domestic policy. A controversial ruling against deporting pro-Palestinian advocates draws attention to political speech rights. Additionally, the withdrawal of BLS nominee E.J. Antony raises eyebrows amidst his contentious social media posts. The program also touches on evolving US alliances, particularly a security pledge to Qatar.
Oct 1, 2025 • 25min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Rants to Generals Spiral into Madness as Dem Unloads: “Idiot!”
Ian Reifowitz, a history professor and co-author of Riling Up the Base, delves into Trump's alarming rhetoric during a speech to military officials. He explains how Trump blurs the lines between domestic and foreign enemies, echoing dangerous historical precedents. Reifowitz highlights the implications of Trump's calls for militarizing U.S. cities and discusses the roots of his fear-driven narratives linked to 1960s racial politics. The conversation also touches on the effectiveness of mockery in political discourse, particularly in response to such extreme rhetoric.
Sep 30, 2025 • 21min
DSR Daily September 30: Government Shutdown Imminent
The looming government shutdown is causing a stir in Washington. A controversial meeting at Quantico featuring Trump raises questions about military politicization. Meanwhile, discussions on a U.S.-Israel ceasefire proposal for Gaza reveal deep divides. Louisiana is deploying National Guard troops to tackle crime, with critics questioning the role of soldiers in domestic issues. Lastly, a standoff over ACA subsidies highlights ongoing dysfunction in Congress. Tune in for these pressing stories and more!
Sep 30, 2025 • 22min
The Daily Blast: Trump Press Sec’s Vile New Effort to Exploit Mormon Shooting Backfires
In this discussion, Sarah Posner, an insightful author and reporter focused on the religious right, shares her expertise on the recent Michigan church shooting. She highlights the political missteps of White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who attempts to frame the tragedy as anti-Christian violence, revealing instead the shooter's ties to Trump and anti-Mormon sentiments. Posner explains how the MAGA movement cultivates a sense of persecution and connects this rhetoric to dangerous real-world consequences, including mass shootings and heightened tensions.
