

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

Apr 9, 2025 • 44min
The Markets Prove Once Again They Have the Whip Hand With Trump
David Sanger, a New York Times national security correspondent, and Rosa Brooks, a Georgetown Law professor, tackle the chaotic world of U.S. tariff policies and their implications. They dive into the unpredictable nature of Trump's decision-making, examining its impact on international relations and financial markets. Hear insights on the tensions with China and Russia, and how economic decisions shape national security priorities. The discussion also critiques recent Supreme Court rulings expanding executive power, highlighting the risks for civil liberties.

Apr 9, 2025 • 21min
The DSR Daily for April 9: Tariffs Continue to be a Disaster
The discussion highlights the disastrous impact of tariffs on the economy, linking them to rising identity fraud during tax season. A recent Supreme Court decision pro-Trump raises eyebrows, while Trump's own comments on tariffs clash with economic realities. The episode critiques the chaotic governance affecting foreign aid cuts and dissects a leadership crisis at the IRS amid privacy concerns. Overall, the urgent need for a reevaluation of trade strategies and political leadership takes center stage.

Apr 9, 2025 • 22min
The Daily Blast: Sotomayor’s Harsh Dissent on Trump Arrests Offers a Terrifying Warning
In this insightful discussion, guest Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, a Senior Fellow at the American Immigration Council, delves into the troubling rulings surrounding the deportation of Venezuelans during the Trump administration. He interprets Sonia Sotomayor's powerful dissent, which highlights alarming risks to due process and the potential for wrongful deportations. Reichlin-Melnick also examines the haunting implications of legal errors in cases like that of Kilmar Abrego Garcia and emphasizes the critical need for judicial safeguards against government overreach.

Apr 9, 2025 • 1h 11min
The Emergency Polycrisis Episode
Dahlia Litwick, a brilliant legal expert, delves into the chaotic legal developments currently unfolding in Washington, highlighting systemic issues within the government. Gillian Tett, a Financial Times columnist, examines the economic ramifications of Donald Trump’s tariffs, exploring how nationalism and populism influence global economic policies. Together, they illuminate the intertwined crises of law and economy, revealing the urgent need for reevaluation and political action.

Apr 8, 2025 • 25min
The DSR Daily for April 8: Billionaire Breakup
The discussion kicks off with the escalating U.S.-China trade war and Trump's tariff threats, revealing their economic impact on everyday Americans. Rising iPhone costs are scrutinized alongside Bill Ackman's economic critiques, tying into broader global issues. A notable Supreme Court ruling on deportations sparks concern over immigrant rights and the use of outdated laws in modern times. The chat also touches on the cancellation of Trump's birthday military parade, addressing financial implications and potential civil unrest linked to such spectacles.

Apr 8, 2025 • 24min
The Daily Blast: Unwell Trump Rages Wildly at Many Targets as GOP Starts Turning on Him
Kathryn Anne Edwards, an economist and commentator, discusses the chaotic fallout from President Trump's tariff policies. She argues that his actions could lead to a recession, framing it as a direct result of his misguided decisions. The conversation highlights cracks in GOP support and the growing pressures on lawmakers amidst economic uncertainty. Edwards critiques the contradictions in Trump’s MAGA rhetoric, pointing out the unsustainable nature of his proposed tax cuts and emphasizing the need for real economic solutions over quick fixes.

Apr 7, 2025 • 41min
AI, Energy, and Climate: Alp Kucukelbir: AI in Industry, Education and More
Alp Kucukelbir, Chief Scientist at Fero Labs and a Columbia University educator, dives into the transformative power of AI in climate change mitigation. He discusses how AI optimizes renewable energy and enhances manufacturing processes to cut emissions. Kucukelbir emphasizes the need for effective education to bridge tech gaps in industries. He also shares insights on using AI to bolster building efficiency and explores interdisciplinary collaboration in climate policy, along with recommendations for impactful reads on climate and urban development.

Apr 7, 2025 • 23min
The DSR Daily for April 7: Markets Crash, Trump Golfs
Markets took a nosedive in reaction to new tariffs, sparking fears of a recession and tensions on the global stage. The discussion reveals the disarray within the Trump administration over trade policies, while a tragic incident adds to the region's political turmoil. Health officials confront vaccination skepticism in light of a measles outbreak, emphasizing public safety. Meanwhile, concerns grow over invasive border searches by the Canadian government amid a $10 trillion economic downturn, leaving many seeking solace in sports and entertainment.

Apr 7, 2025 • 22min
The Daily Blast: “Disaster”: Trump Voters Suddenly Realize How Badly He Screwed Them
Tom Schaller, co-author of "White Rural Rage," dives into the precarious situation rural farmers face due to Trump’s tariffs. He highlights the growing disillusionment among Trump loyalists as they grapple with economic fallout. Schaller explains how the trade war is hitting farmers hard and warns of a looming disaster without government bailouts. He also discusses the complexities of rural support for Trump and offers insights on how Democrats could effectively connect with these voters by addressing their pressing economic concerns.

9 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 37min
Siliconsciousness: The AI Competition: Public Policy Strategies: Part 2
In this engaging discussion, Elizabeth Bramson-Boudreau, CEO of MIT Technology Review, leads insights with Ramayya Krishnan from Carnegie Mellon and Doug Calidas from Americans for Responsible Innovation. They explore the U.S.-China dynamics in AI policy, emphasizing open-source development and regulatory challenges. The trio dives into safeguarding intellectual property and fostering innovation through data licensing. They also discuss the need for global collaboration between the U.S. and EU amidst competing regulations, crucial for shaping a sustainable AI ecosystem.