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
Dec 3, 2025 • 54min
NTK: After the Fox: The Search for Who to Trust in the New Media Era
Jeff Jarvis, a media commentator and professor, teams up with Dan Froomkin, a journalism critic, to tackle the collapse of traditional media. They delve into the credibility of major outlets like The New York Times and Washington Post, debating whether they’re still worth following. The conversation shifts to the impact of billionaires on media narratives and the rise of AI's influence in news. Finally, they explore the new dynamics of trust in journalism and how audiences can navigate the chaotic information landscape.
Dec 2, 2025 • 37min
NTK: How to Combat Authoritarianism in the US: A Conversation with Sen. Jeff Merkley
Senator Jeff Merkley, a U.S. Senator from Oregon and progressive leader, discusses urgent strategies to combat rising authoritarianism in the U.S. He condemns recent military actions as potentially illegal and warns of escalation towards Venezuela. Merkley highlights the need for citizens to protest and engage politically. He also outlines Senate tactics to resist abuses of power, critiques the Supreme Court's role in enabling executive overreach, and emphasizes policy fights to defend democracy against wealth concentration and authoritarian trends.
Dec 2, 2025 • 27min
DSR Daily December 2: Trump Pardons Former Honduran President
The discussion kicks off with Trump’s controversial pardon of Honduras' former president, Juan Orlando Hernandez, amid drug trafficking allegations. Tensions rise as the hosts dissect the fallout from a deadly boat strike involving the Pentagon. They highlight the hypocrisy in U.S. anti-narcotics policy, questioning the discrepancies between actions in Venezuela and Hernandez's release. Additionally, Costco's legal challenge against emergency tariffs and criticisms of executive overreach add to the complex political landscape.
Dec 2, 2025 • 25min
The Daily Blast: Trump Press Sec Spin Implodes as Fresh Boat Bombing Horrors Rattle GOP
Jennifer Rubin, co-founder and editor-in-chief of The Contrarian, dives into the troubling aftermath of President Trump’s boat bombings. She discusses how the recent revelation of a second strike, resulting in civilian casualties, raises serious legal concerns. Rubin highlights the Republican Party's growing unease and the necessity for accountability within the military chain of command. With a focus on potential war crime implications, she examines the significance of 'no quarter' orders and the urgent need for oversight and legal remedies in this contentious situation.
Dec 1, 2025 • 21min
DSR Daily December 1: Netanyahu Asks for Pardon
The discussion dives into Benjamin Netanyahu's controversial request for a pardon, exploring its implications. Allegations against Pete Hegseth raise serious questions about accountability in wartime conduct. The hosts also address devastating flooding in Southeast Asia, linking these disasters to climate change. Renewed diplomatic efforts regarding Ukraine reveal internal conflicts over concessions and the creeping influence of corruption. Throughout, calls for a reality check on climate science and policy highlight ongoing challenges.
Dec 1, 2025 • 18min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Fury at NYT Explodes amid Fresh Concerns about Mental Decline
David Lurie, a lawyer and political commentator, jumps into the fray discussing Trump’s explosive reaction to a New York Times article on his decline. Lurie argues that Trump’s perception of strength is crumbling, exposing him as a 'lame duck dictator.' They explore the dangers posed by his dwindling power and authoritarian tendencies, emphasizing how his public rants and media portrayals reflect a desperate attempt to maintain control. Lurie also highlights the significance of community resistance against Trump’s waning authority.
Nov 26, 2025 • 36min
This Year We're Thankful for Courage and Resistance
Max Boot, a foreign policy analyst and Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins law professor Rosa Brooks for a lively discussion. They dissect the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine. Boot laments the erosion of trust among allies, while Brooks highlights the courage of Ukrainians and domestic resistance efforts in the U.S. Their dialogue explores the silver linings amidst chaos, emphasizing gratitude for those who stand firm in defending democracy and navigating through turbulent times.
Nov 26, 2025 • 24min
DSR Daily November 26: Witkoff/Russia Audio Leaks
On the DSR Daily for Wednesday, we discuss a leaked recording of Steve Witkoff, 20 states suing the administration over cuts to homeless housing funding, Trump backing Patel over reports on his potential ousting, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Nov 26, 2025 • 24min
The Daily Blast: Trump Erupts in Frantic Tirade over 2026 as GOP Slips into Fresh Panic
Monica Potts, a staff writer at The New Republic, joins to discuss the GOP's ongoing troubles with the Affordable Care Act. She explains the implications of subsidy expirations and reveals how premium increases could lead to a crisis for many. The conversation delves into the roots of Republican hostility towards Obamacare and their reliance on gerrymandering. Additionally, they analyze the dismal morale within the party and how Trump's recent tirade reflects deeper issues, highlighting a clash between their plutocratic agenda and voters' needs.
Nov 26, 2025 • 39min
Words Matter: A Curmudgeon's Guide to What to Be Thankful For
As Thanksgiving approaches, the hosts explore the flickering hope amidst chaos. They discuss Trump's declining influence and the pushback from Democratic leaders. Sharp critiques of GOP fractures and the fallout from controversial military orders add tension. They highlight promising younger Democrats poised for change, all while showcasing the surprising stability of the current administration. It’s a blend of dark humor, political analysis, and a bit of gratitude for the resilience in unpredictable times.
