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
Nov 3, 2025 • 19min
DSR Daily November 3: Supreme Court to Rule on Trump’s Tariffs
The discussion focuses on an upcoming Supreme Court ruling on the legality of Trump's tariffs and the potential consequences for executive power. A political stalemate fuels the ongoing government shutdown, affecting federal workers and food aid. In a controversial move, a senior FBI official is ousted amid accusations of politically driven firings. The hosts also critique Trump's foreign policy, particularly his hesitance to supply Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, raising concerns over NATO's role and international geopolitics.
Nov 3, 2025 • 48min
NTK: Trump is America's New Nuclear Nightmare
Join Joe Cirincione, a seasoned nuclear policy expert, and Jon Wolfsthal, a former government nuclear specialist, as they dissect the alarming decision to resume nuclear testing after three decades. They explore the potential risks of reigniting the arms race, the implications of U.S. policy shifts, and why nations like Russia and China aren't currently testing. The duo also critiques the film "A House of Dynamite" for its portrayal of nuclear scenarios and reflects on the cultural impact of nuclear-themed movies. A riveting blend of expertise and insight!
Nov 3, 2025 • 22min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Angry New Tirades Push Mike Johnson into Awkward Clean-Up Mode
Guest Maura Quint, an organizer with Fair Share America, dives deep into the chaotic political landscape stirred by Trump's recent tirades demanding Republicans end the Senate filibuster. She explores how these outbursts reveal GOP disarray and undermine their messaging around the government shutdown. With a focus on the growing disillusionment among Trump supporters and the implications for independent voters, Maura emphasizes the challenges Democrats face in reaching those affected by expiring ACA subsidies. The discussion highlights a pivotal moment in American politics.
Nov 2, 2025 • 17min
DSR Weekly Wrap-Up October 31: Trump Slashes Refugee Cap
On the DSR Weekly Wrap-Up for October 31, we cover the administration’s shocking new refugee cap, Trump calling for the Senate to scrap the filibuster, the devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Oct 31, 2025 • 30min
The Daily Blast: Trump ICE Raids Take Awful Turn as Dem Gov Drops Alarming New Warning
Dave Karpf, a professor of media and public affairs, joins the discussion to detail the chaos initiated by Trump’s ICE raids at a children's Halloween parade in Chicago. He highlights the alarming response from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, who warns that children are being terrorized. Karpf argues for the necessity of provocative strategies in political communication to engage low-attention voters. He connects historical civil rights tactics to contemporary movements and stresses the importance of progressive media investment to counteract conservative narratives.
Oct 30, 2025 • 27min
Words Matter: Crazier Craziness from Trump Lies Ahead
Norm Ornstein, a veteran scholar of Congress and political commentator, joins David Rothkopf to discuss the current political landscape. They analyze why Republicans continue the government shutdown and the negative impacts of suspended SNAP benefits, which threaten their own voter base. Ornstein speculates on potential compromises and examines the cascading effects of the shutdown, while also addressing Trump's overseas behavior and possible distractions he might pursue. The conversation reveals the intricate connections between politics, public health, and economic consequences.
Oct 30, 2025 • 21min
DSR Daily October 30: Trumps Resumes Nuclear Weapon Testing
The discussion kicks off with Trump's shocking announcement to resume nuclear weapons tests, raising eyebrows across the globe. There's a breakthrough on US-China trade relations, with a new tariff deal focusing on fentanyl and rare earths. Senators demand transparency from ICE on deportation flights amidst escalating concerns. Confusion swirls around SNAP funding as state pushback mounts against USDA reversals. Finally, experts dive into the implications and risks surrounding nuclear tests, clarifying misconceptions about their nature.
Oct 30, 2025 • 22min
The Daily Blast: Trump Ballroom Fiasco Takes Bad New Turn as Economic Data Gets Brutal
Elizabeth Pancotti, the managing director at the Groundwork Collaborative, sheds light on the worsening economic climate, highlighting mass layoffs and soaring Obamacare premiums. She discusses the public backlash against Trump’s extravagant ballroom plans, noting the stark contrast with millions facing economic hardships. Pancotti emphasizes the importance of media accountability and how Democrats might leverage this disconnect to focus on affordability, underscoring that voters are increasingly concerned about everyday economic struggles.
Oct 29, 2025 • 47min
China Understands How to Deal with Trump, Why Don't America's Leaders?
In this discussion, Melanie Hart, a senior director at the Atlantic Council's Global China Hub and former State Department advisor, delves into the complexities of U.S.-China relations. She predicts limited concessions in the upcoming Trump-Xi meeting, emphasizing China's confidence in leveraging rare-earths and tech ambitions. Hart also warns of potential long-term risks as countries de-risk from Chinese supplies. The conversation highlights the delicate balance of diplomacy, with Taiwan's concerns and Trump's unpredictable tone in focus, making for a captivating geopolitical analysis.
Oct 29, 2025 • 21min
DSR Daily October 29: Israel Strikes Gaza in Defiance of Ceasefire
The podcast dives into Israel's aggressive strikes on Gaza, marking a significant breach of ceasefire that resulted in numerous casualties. It examines new oversight for Border Patrol agents in Chicago following recent controversies. Trump’s visit to South Korea brings a $350 billion investment deal that could reshape economic ties. Additionally, the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa is linked to climate change, while discussions on the global inaction against genocide highlight a pressing humanitarian crisis.
