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
May 19, 2025 • 27min
The DSR Weekly Wrap-Up: Russia-Ukraine Talks Fizzle and Trump’s Grand Gulf Tour
Disastrous Russia-Ukraine talks in Turkey raise questions about the future of diplomacy. Meanwhile, Trump’s grand tour of the Gulf states unveils new economic deals and shifts in U.S. policies towards the Middle East. The complexities of U.S.-Gulf relations also come under scrutiny, addressing narratives of influence and calls for transparency. Tensions with South Africa's leadership add another layer to the diplomatic landscape. Catch insights on emerging conflicts and the evolving political climate.
May 18, 2025 • 48min
FTS: The Sisterhood: Unveiling the Secret History of Women at the CIA
Liza Mundy, an award-winning journalist and author of 'The Sisterhood: The Secret History of Women at the CIA', dives into the hidden experiences of women within the CIA. She uncovers their challenges in a male-dominated environment and discusses the fallout from recent sexual harassment scandals. Mundy shares humorous tales from retired CIA operatives while highlighting the vital roles women play in espionage, particularly post-9/11. The conversation also touches on female solidarity within the agency and the urgency of recognizing their contributions to intelligence history.
May 17, 2025 • 37min
FTA: Trump is a Convicted Felon Special Edition
Jen Rubin, a Washington Post columnist known for her political insights, and Mike Tomasky, editor of The New Republic focusing on culture, dive into the fallout from Donald Trump's felony convictions. They explore the polarized reactions in the public and political spheres and the media's sensationalism that can undermine trust in justice. The guests highlight the importance of jury integrity and the necessity for informed political discourse, urging better news consumption habits to enhance democratic engagement and combat rising apathy.
May 16, 2025 • 20min
The Daily Blast: Trump Rages Over Qatar Jet Fiasco as GOP Angst Worsens: “Humiliating”
Russell Berman, a staff writer at The Atlantic, discusses President Trump's growing anger over criticism surrounding his $400 million Qatar jet. Trump finds the situation ‘humiliating’ and considers keeping the gift despite backlash. Berman explains how this controversy is igniting GOP tensions, revealing fractures within the party as members grapple with loyalty versus accountability. The conversation also delves into the implications of corruption and the Emoluments Clause, raising questions about Trump's influence over his party and the future of the MAGA movement.
May 15, 2025 • 38min
The Existential Political Issue Most Democrats Aren't Focusing On Yet
Norm Ornstein, a resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute and expert on American politics, joins to explore pivotal topics affecting the nation. They discuss the Supreme Court's contentious rulings on birthright citizenship and nationwide injunctions, and their implications for executive power. The conversation shifts to urgent reforms needed, including expanding Congress and introducing term limits for justices, as well as addressing the upcoming redistricting challenges that could deepen political inequalities.
May 15, 2025 • 17min
The Daily Blast: MAGA Senator’s Stunning Admission: GOP Is Badly Screwing Trump Voters
Jonathan Cohn, a Senior national correspondent for The Bulwark and a prominent health care reporter, joins the conversation to dissect a troubling bill from the House GOP. He reveals Senator Josh Hawley’s striking admission about the bill’s detrimental cuts to Medicaid that could significantly harm Trump voters. The discussion highlights the contradiction within the GOP as they push tax cuts for the wealthy while neglecting the needs of their base. Cohn examines whether the GOP can maintain its loyalty to working-class voters amid these critical challenges.
May 14, 2025 • 36min
Special Episode: Ed Luce's Masterful New Biography of Zbigniew Brzezinski
Ed Luce, a Financial Times columnist and author of "Zbig: The Life of Zbigniew Brzezinski, America's Great Power Prophet," dives deep into the life of the influential foreign policy strategist. He elaborates on why Brzezinski's legacy is crucial for understanding today's geopolitical landscape. The discussion reveals insights from Brzezinski’s diaries and highlights his foresight on America's global role, including the concept of the 'Alliance of the Aggrieved.' Luce also reflects on pivotal historical moments that shaped national security discourse.
May 14, 2025 • 15min
The DSR Daily for May 14: FBI Prioritizing Immigration Over White Collar Crime?
The podcast dives into the FBI's controversial shift towards prioritizing immigration enforcement and its potential neglect of white-collar crimes. It also dissects Trump’s diplomatic meeting with Syria's interim president, highlighting its international implications. Additionally, the discussion covers contentious House Republican proposals on tax cuts and Medicaid, sparking significant Democratic pushback. Lastly, concerns about government crackdowns on whistleblowers and transparency are raised, setting the stage for debates on academic freedom and accountability.
May 14, 2025 • 21min
The Daily Blast: Trump Tariff Fiasco Worsens as Brutal New Reports Reveal a Fresh Scam
Ilya Somin, a law professor at George Mason University, joins the discussion to delve into the serious legal dilemmas surrounding Trump's tariffs on China. He highlights recent reports that reveal the tariffs as a massive scam, causing global economic turmoil without achieving meaningful concessions. Somin explains the weak legal foundation of these tariffs and the brewing lawsuits set to challenge them. The conversation also critiques the dangers of unilateral presidential tariff authority and its implications for the economy.
May 13, 2025 • 29min
The DSR Daily for May 13: Trump’s Gulf Tour Begins
President Trump's recent trip to Saudi Arabia reveals complicated ties with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and business interests. The discussion takes a sharp turn to the ethical concerns surrounding his controversial refugee policy for white South Africans. The hosts dissect proposed reforms to SNAP, highlighting the widening gap between the wealthy and low-income Americans. Additionally, Trump's executive order on drug prices is scrutinized for its practicality. Through witty commentary, the hosts balance the serious and the absurd in today’s political landscape.
