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
Oct 27, 2024 • 52min
FTS: Words Matter - Rantapalooza: Norm and David are Triggered
The looming government shutdown reveals deep rifts within the Republican Party. Norm and David express their frustrations about the effects of poor leadership on the nation. They tackle Rupert Murdoch's resignation and its implications for media influence. Discussions touch on the handling of COVID-19 and the media's role in shaping narratives. Trump's dominance over party ideology and the rise of anti-government sentiment are critiqued, alongside a chaotic political leadership landscape. Expect plenty of rants and passionate insights!
Oct 26, 2024 • 36min
FTA: How Do You Reverse Engineer an Israeli-Palestinian Peace Settlement?
Rosa Brooks, a Georgetown Law professor specializing in national security, joins Kori Schake, a Stanford research fellow, and Ed Luce, a Financial Times columnist, to dive deep into the complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They discuss the feasibility of a lasting peace amid rising dissent in the U.S. over military aid to Israel. The trio critiques the Biden administration's policies and their impact on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, while reflecting on historical approaches to the peace process and the need for new leadership on both sides.
Oct 25, 2024 • 29min
WAGD: What is Driving China’s Changing Nuclear Policy? with Tong Zhao
Tong Zhao, a Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, dives into the shifting landscape of China's nuclear policy. He explores how Xi Jinping’s leadership is reshaping nuclear strategy, blending traditional deterrence with newfound warfighting capabilities. The discussion reveals how U.S. military strategies influence China's nuclear perceptions, particularly regarding low-yield weapons. Zhao also addresses the interplay between U.S. nuclear policies and China's ambitions, emphasizing the importance of nuanced understanding in this evolving dynamic.
Oct 25, 2024 • 22min
The DSR Daily for October 25: Elon Musk in Conversation with Vladimir Putin
Elon Musk's controversial chats with Vladimir Putin raise eyebrows about his influence on U.S. military strategies. The unsettling ties between leaders like Musk, Trump, and Putin spark discussions on democracy's future. Trump’s bold moves against investigations reveal the fragility of the justice system. Amid political polarization, key town hall issues underscore the power of women voters. A disturbing case in Arizona highlights growing gun violence, reminding listeners of the need for civic engagement to ensure safety in upcoming elections.
Oct 25, 2024 • 24min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Angry New Rants at Jack Smith Suddenly Signal Much Darker Aims
Barbara McQuade, a former federal prosecutor, dives into Donald Trump's recent fiery remarks directed at special counsel Jack Smith. She discusses the alarming notion of Trump claiming Supreme Court-sanctioned immunity, hinting at his potential unchecked power if re-elected. McQuade elaborates on the dire implications of a president firing a special counsel, the integrity of the Department of Justice, and the historical context of political pressures faced by legal professionals. The conversation also touches on the risks of distorting history and the importance of civic engagement.
Oct 24, 2024 • 54min
Eyewitness Reports from the Battleground States
Olivia Troye, a former Trump White House official known for her bold criticism, joins political strategist Reed Galen and attorney Julie Zebrak, a Kamala Harris campaign volunteer. They dive into the heated dynamics of battleground states as the election looms. The trio discusses how Trump's alarming rhetoric shapes voter sentiment, analyzes the grassroots efforts in these crucial areas, and highlights key issues in Georgia affecting local voters. Their insights reflect the ever-complex nature of political engagement in a polarizing climate.
Oct 24, 2024 • 52min
Words Matter: Nervously Optimistic, Neurotically Confused
In a riveting discussion, the hosts dissect the final days of a tense presidential race. They explore the implications of Kamala Harris’ town hall and Trump’s alarming connection to extremist ideologies. The conversation dives into the parallels between modern rallies and historical authoritarian moments, raising critical concerns about media influence and voter engagement. Grassroots participation emerges as essential in safeguarding democracy, while strategies to reach young voters take center stage. It's a compelling blend of urgency and reflection!
Oct 24, 2024 • 14min
The DSR Daily for October 24: Hezbollah Leader’s Expected Successor Killed in Israeli Airstrike
In a turbulent week, the assassination of Hezbollah's Hashem Safiyyedin escalates conflict dynamics in Lebanon. Meanwhile, U.S. political campaigns heat up in battleground states, with skepticism over polling data and calls for greater voter participation. A troubling new study reveals rising infant mortality rates following the Roe reversal, particularly impacting marginalized communities. Lastly, diplomatic efforts are explored amid ongoing tensions in Ukraine, with China and Brazil calling for conflict de-escalation.
Oct 24, 2024 • 32min
The Daily Blast: Harris’ Harsh Takedown of Trump over “Hitler” Bombshell Hits the Mark
Ben Wikler, Chairman of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, delves into the political landscape ahead of the election. He discusses Kamala Harris's sharp response to John Kelly's alarming comments about Trump’s potential dictatorship. Wikler highlights the shifting voter sentiment in Wisconsin, especially among undecided Republicans. He emphasizes strategies for framing Harris as a unifying candidate and Trump as a threat to democracy. The conversation also covers the critical role of grassroots organizing and strategic communication in mobilizing voters.
Oct 23, 2024 • 44min
What's to be Done if the Next US President Might be a Hitler-Lover?
Tension rises as Trump's controversial statements about Hitler spark intense discussions. The impact of North Korean troops potentially aiding Russia in Ukraine reveals alarming geopolitical shifts. Experts analyze Trump’s troubling ties with authoritarian leaders and the implications for U.S. democracy. They highlight the urgency of safeguarding democratic values against rising extremism. The ethical responsibilities of military leaders in politics are also weighed, reminding us of the delicate balance in safeguarding democratic institutions.
