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
Mar 31, 2025 • 35min
AI, Energy and Climate: Chris James Part 1: AI Power Demand
Join Chris James, CEO and Founder of Engine No. 1, as he discusses the surging demand for electric power driven by AI's explosive growth. With over 30 years in semiconductor investment, he sheds light on the challenges of sustaining energy supply for data centers. Topics include the impact of AI on energy infrastructure, the Jebbins paradox related to efficiency and consumption, and the importance of navigating regulatory changes to stabilize power pricing. This conversation highlights the critical intersection of technology and energy for future competitiveness.
Mar 31, 2025 • 19min
The DSR Daily for March 31: A Third Term for Trump?
The discussion kicks off with Trump hinting at a controversial third term, sending ripples through the political landscape. Elon Musk's generous $1 million giveaway in Wisconsin raises eyebrows regarding its motivations and implications. Legal troubles of a French political figure are explored, shedding light on their potential presidential ambitions. The hosts dive into economic policies, questioning the impact of proposed tariffs on local businesses and overall trade. A compelling analysis highlights the constitutional challenges surrounding Trump's ambitions and their threat to American democracy.
Mar 31, 2025 • 28min
The Daily Blast: Trump Text Fiasco Suddenly Worsens as MAGA Knives Come Out for Hegseth
Jennifer Rubin, co-founder and editor-in-chief of The Contrarian Substack, dives into the unfolding scandal surrounding Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and the alarming implications of unsecured communications among Trump’s allies. She critiques the reckless arrogance that has taken hold of Trump’s circle, emphasizing the growing political peril as internal dissent surfaces. Rubin also highlights the hypocrisy and complacency within MAGA politics, touching on how these issues could destabilize party unity and have serious ramifications for democracy.
Mar 28, 2025 • 40min
Siliconsciousness: The AI Competition: Public Policy Strategies: Part 1
Dive into the fascinating world of AI policy as experts role-play international dynamics among the U.S., China, and the EU. The strategic exercise reveals the complexities of public policy in AI, highlighting trade, talent wars, and innovation funding. Discover how the U.S. seeks to enhance its defense technology and attract top talent through innovative immigration policies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of collaboration and transparency to navigate the competitive landscape of global AI advancements.
Mar 28, 2025 • 29min
The DSR Daily for March 28: Stefanik Nomination is No More
The podcast dives into the unexpected withdrawal of Rep. Stefanik's UN nomination and its potential impact on Republican dynamics. It highlights concerns over civil liberties as the Trump administration revokes visas for protesting foreign students. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is examined, discussing Russia's escalating aggression and the legal hurdles Ukraine faces. Controversies surrounding the National Museum of African American History reveal the ideological battle over historical narratives. Lastly, it reflects on the significance of cultural representation in resisting authoritarianism.
Mar 28, 2025 • 18min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s ICE Removals Take Darker Turn after Unnerving Rubio Admission
Shev Dalal-Dheini, a top official with the American Immigration Lawyers Association, discusses alarming trends in immigration enforcement, particularly the targeting of foreign students for political associations. She highlights a shocking case involving a Tufts University student detained without clear rationale. The conversation also delves into First Amendment rights, legal complexities of deportation policies, and the unsettling implications for free speech. Listeners gain insight into the evolving landscape of immigration laws and the concerning motivations behind recent removals.
Mar 27, 2025 • 39min
Pulling the Stefanik Nomination is a Sign MAGA is Scared
Norm Ornstein, a political analyst and regular contributor to Deep State Radio, joins to dissect the chaotic landscape of American politics. He examines whether MAGA figures, like Elise Stefanik, are realizing their vulnerabilities as he discusses Trump's recent executive orders and RFK Jr.'s overhaul of health programs. The conversation highlights pressing concerns over immigration policies, the troubling state of free speech, and the impact of misinformation on public health. Amidst these challenges, Ornstein emphasizes the need for political activism and accountability.
Mar 27, 2025 • 40min
AI, Energy and Climate: Cynthia Rosenzweig and Kevin Karl: AI, the Food System and Climate Change
Cynthia Rosenzweig, a Senior Research Scientist at NASA and a 2022 World Food Prize winner, joins Kevin Karl, a Research Associate at Columbia University focused on climate systems. They discuss the food system's hefty contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and the potential role of AI in transforming agriculture. They highlight the importance of critical thinking when implementing AI tools and explore innovative concepts like digital twins in farming. The conversation also touches on how literature can provide insights into food supply issues and the impacts of climate change.
Mar 27, 2025 • 29min
The DSR Daily for March 27: Just What We Wanted — More Tariffs
Spring brings baseball joy, but the talks quickly turn serious. The new auto tariffs are set to reshape the automotive industry, raising prices and shaking up trade relations. Civil liberties are under scrutiny as a detained student sparks discussions on activism. Meanwhile, a massive cancellation of federal health grants raises alarms about public health initiatives. The struggles within the U.S. healthcare system are highlighted, contrasting sharply with other nations, while critical funding for educational programs faces threats.
Mar 27, 2025 • 26min
The Daily Blast: Trump Privately Seethes at Text Fiasco as Hegseth’s Dumb Spin Implodes
Zack Beauchamp, a journalist at Vox known for his insights on right-wing populism, joins to dissect a major scandal involving President Trump's advisors inadvertently including a journalist in a sensitive military discussion. The conversation dives into Trump's frustration and the weak defense provided by his team. They explore the implications of leaked military secrets, the perils of prioritizing loyalty over competence in governance, and how these issues reflect deeper schisms within MAGA ideology, raising alarms for democracy in the U.S.
