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 20, 2025 • 52min
FTS: What Happens When Leaders Don’t Lead
Leaders are notably absent at critical junctures, like the Supreme Court and college campuses, raising alarms about the state of leadership. The discussion dives into Trump’s legal battles and the evolving nature of the White House Correspondents Dinner amidst national unrest. Analyzing judicial philosophies, they spotlight pivotal Supreme Court cases affecting women's health rights. University presidents face tough choices balancing free speech with campus safety during divisive protests. Meanwhile, potential reforms for Congress are explored to mend bipartisan divides.
Apr 19, 2025 • 55min
FTA: An Exclusive Conversation with Secretary Pete Buttigieg
In this engaging discussion, Secretary Pete Buttigieg shares his insights on America's pressing transportation challenges. He highlights the significance of transformative infrastructure projects, including the high-speed rail between Las Vegas and Southern California. Buttigieg also addresses the aging Northeast Corridor and the critical safety issues in aviation, particularly with Boeing. Furthermore, the conversation dives into the role of technology and autonomous vehicles in enhancing safety and efficiency, emphasizing the need for public engagement and innovative regulations.
Apr 18, 2025 • 20min
The DSR Daily for April 18: US Support in Ukraine at a Flashpoint
Political tensions are rising as U.S. support for Ukraine hangs in the balance. The potential end to backing raises questions amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts. Trump suggests easing trade tensions with China, offering a glimmer of hope for consumers. Meanwhile, tragic events at Florida State University highlight the emotional toll of gun violence on communities. Amid these serious issues, there are lighter moments reflecting on diplomatic efforts and public perceptions of political figures during pivotal times.
Apr 18, 2025 • 24min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Fury at Harvard Darkens as GOPer Openly Admits: “We’re Afraid”
In a revealing conversation, Jeffrey Sachs, a professor at Acadia University and expert on authoritarianism, delves into President Trump’s escalating fury at Harvard University. He discusses the administration's threats to limit foreign student admissions and how these actions could undermine free speech. Sachs highlights the chilling atmosphere within the GOP, exemplified by Senator Lisa Murkowski's admission of fear of retaliation. The talk explores the implications of these threats for higher education and the potential resilience of institutions facing authoritarian pressures.
Apr 17, 2025 • 41min
Who Knew You Could Dismantle Democracy in America This Quickly?
In this discussion, political scientist Norm Ornstein analyzes the rapid erosion of democracy in America under the current presidency. He highlights alarming developments like political gifts to Putin, attempts to misuse the IRS against Harvard, and presidential overreach challenging the judiciary. Ornstein and David Rothkopf stress the critical importance of media accountability and the normalization of authoritarian narratives. They warn about the unsettling dynamics that threaten fundamental democratic institutions and individual freedoms in today’s political landscape.
Apr 17, 2025 • 16min
The DSR Daily for April 17: Trump’s War with Harvard
The podcast dives into the escalating clash between Trump and Harvard, as the administration targets the university's tax-exempt status over policy disagreements. It also discusses Trump's demand for the Fed chair's firing amid economic challenges. Listeners can learn about intriguing developments regarding international diplomacy and the ongoing talks about the war in Ukraine. Plus, there's an exploration of recent court rulings that challenge the administration's authority, highlighting the tension between judicial actions and political maneuvers.
Apr 17, 2025 • 22min
The Daily Blast: Fiasco for Trump as Judge Threatens Contempt amid New Warning in Polls
Melissa Gira Grant, staff writer at The New Republic, dives into the troubling implications of a federal judge's ruling against Trump’s immigration policies. She discusses the probable cause for criminal contempt over deporting Venezuelans to El Salvador, backed by a shocking case involving a senator’s visit. Poll analysis reveals Trump’s precarious standing on immigration, hinting at a potential political fiasco. Grant also critiques the Trump administration's 'deportation TV' tactics and the resulting backlash in immigrant communities.
Apr 16, 2025 • 48min
What Would Kissinger and Brzezinski Think of Trump?
Ed Luce, a Financial Times columnist and author specializing in US foreign policy, joins David Rothkopf to examine how historical figures like Kissinger and Brzezinski would assess Trump's unconventional foreign policy. They discuss the evolution of diplomacy and the importance of historical context in modern challenges. Luce highlights the implications of American exceptionalism, critiques current strategies toward China and Russia, and shares insights from his upcoming book, emphasizing the need for deeper intellectual engagement in politics.
Apr 16, 2025 • 22min
The DSR Daily for April 16: A Gloomy Economic Forecast
The podcast tackles the World Trade Organization's grim economic forecast for 2025, attributing it to rising U.S. tariffs. It also delves into the complexities of immigration policy amidst criticisms of the current administration. A heated town hall with protests raises questions about press freedom and public dissent. Additionally, the hosts discuss a controversial UK Supreme Court ruling impacting gender identity, sparking diverse reactions and broader implications for human rights.
Apr 16, 2025 • 21min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Unhinged Tirade at Harvard Actually Reveals Big MAGA Weakness
In a thought-provoking discussion, guest Jonathan Friedman, managing director of PEN America's Free Expression Program, delves into Harvard's bold refusal to yield to Trump's recent outbursts. He examines how Trump's threats against the university reveal a deeper weakness for the MAGA movement. The conversation touches on the need for institutions to stand together against political intimidation and the potential benefits of a united front in defending free speech. Friedman highlights the importance of higher education in safeguarding democracy and societal progress.
