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
Jul 16, 2025 • 15min
The DSR Daily for July 16: Israel Strikes Syria
Israel's recent airstrikes on Damascus spark debates about accountability and civilian casualties, especially among Druze communities. Meanwhile, the Republican Party grapples with internal discord over the release of Epstein files, showcasing tensions between party leaders. On the international front, a new trade agreement with Indonesia raises questions about U.S.-China relations. The hosts weave these complex issues into a captivating discussion that highlights the interconnectedness of political maneuvers and global events.
Jul 16, 2025 • 25min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Rage Erupts as Inflation Rises and His Pollster Openly Panics
Kathryn Edwards, an economist known for decoding Trumponomics, joins to discuss the recent surge in inflation and its implications. She sheds light on how Trump's tariffs are exacerbating economic challenges for working-class Americans. Edwards critiques Trump’s denial of the inflation crisis and emphasizes the need for Democrats to adopt bold economic strategies. The conversation highlights the potential impact of these dynamics on upcoming elections and the urgent need for effective policy responses.
Jul 15, 2025 • 14min
The DSR Daily for July 15: Department of Eduction Cuts Incoming
The hosts delve into the looming cuts at the Department of Education and the implications for civil rights and access to education. They discuss the recent layoffs in the DOJ and the potential political ramifications. Trump's fluctuating stance on NATO and tariffs is dissected, revealing his complex international views. The conversation also highlights recent court rulings affecting Afghan protections while addressing rising inflation and its economic implications for American voters, blending humor with serious political analysis.
Jul 15, 2025 • 25min
The Daily Blast: Tucker Carlson’s Harsh Takedown of Trump on Epstein Ignites MAGA Fury
Nicole Hemmer, historian and author, dives deep into the MAGA movement's response to the DOJ's findings on Jeffrey Epstein. She unveils the chaos ignited by Tucker Carlson's public critique of Trump, highlighting a rift within the movement over conspiracy theories. Hemmer decodes the intertwining narratives of elite pedophilia and examines the backlash faced by Trump loyalists. The discussion reveals the broader impact of conspiratorial thinking on conservative media and the emotional turmoil among Trump's supporters as they confront uncomfortable truths.
Jul 14, 2025 • 15min
The DSR Daily July 14: Oh Boy, More Tariff Threats
The discussion kicks off with escalating threats of tariffs on imports from Mexico and the EU, sparking debates on their economic impact. There's growing concern over the turnover at the Justice Department, which could affect policy defense. The controversial detention of immigrants in Florida is examined, contrasting ethical dilemmas and national security. Lastly, the U.S. commits to supporting Ukraine with Patriot missiles, raising questions about evolving military strategies.
Jul 14, 2025 • 18min
Trump’s Threat to Jail Enemies Darkens amid Brutal New Poll Slide
David Kurtz, Editor-at-large at Talking Points Memo, dissects the alarming intersection of politics and law under Trump. They discuss the Justice Department's criminal investigations into James Comey and John Brennan, highlighting how this reflects broader intimidation tactics. Kurtz argues that Trump’s increasing authoritarian behavior is a desperate attempt to mask declining popularity, especially on immigration policies. The conversation emphasizes the dangerous implications of these tactics for democracy and the potential for growing public backlash against such fear-based control.
Jul 13, 2025 • 21min
The DSR Weekly Wrap-Up: State Department Gears Up for Mass Firings
A deep dive into the State Department's looming mass layoffs of over 1,300 employees raises questions about U.S. diplomacy and human rights. The hosts reflect on the President's visit to Texas flood sites, criticizing government responses during crises. They tackle political distractions in child welfare, expressing concern over the focus on gender-affirming care instead of urgent humanitarian issues. The podcast also discusses the challenges of reconstructing Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict and the escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada.
10 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 33min
Siliconsciousness: The Best Way to Promote AI Leadership May Not Be What You Think It Is
Camille Stewart Gloster, CEO of CAS Strategies and former Deputy National Cyber Director, dives into the complexities of AI leadership amid US-China competition. She discusses how regulations can actually drive innovation rather than stifle it, using examples from cybersecurity. The conversation explores the delicate balance between safety and innovation in AI, stressing the need for effective regulatory frameworks. Gloster also highlights the urgent necessity for global cooperation in AI regulation and the importance of investing in digital skills to keep pace with technological advancements.
Jul 11, 2025 • 24min
The Daily Blast: Stephen Miller Rages Wildly at Low Arrests—and Wrecks a Big Trump Scam
Todd Schulte, President of FWD.us and a leading voice in immigration reform, joins the conversation to dissect Stephen Miller's recent explosive demands for increased arrest quotas at ICE. Schulte exposes how these mandates are demoralizing agents and distract them from addressing serious crimes. The discussion dives into the disturbing trend of vilifying immigrants through memes, emphasizing the urgent need for humane immigration reform. Schulte also offers practical advice for the public on how to resist the dire implications of these policies.
Jul 10, 2025 • 47min
Words Matter: A Prescription for Saving the Country
Norm Ornstein, a renowned political scientist and journalist, joins David Rothkopf to discuss the urgent need to restore democracy in the U.S. They dive into the erosion of democratic norms, highlighting Congress's failures and media complicity in accountability. Ornstein critiques the Republican Party's internal conflicts under controversial leadership and calls for radical reforms from Democrats to engage voters. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for bold actions to combat rising authoritarianism and reclaim democratic integrity.
