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 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.
Oct 23, 2024 • 52min
AAI: A Chat With "Poet Laureate" of the CIA Ops Office Cadre, David McCloskey
David McCloskey, an espionage author and former CIA analyst, shares insights into his latest novel, 'The Seventh Floor.' He humorously reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of writing and the personal journeys tied to crafting espionage narratives. The conversation dives into CIA antics, the tight-knit friendships formed in training, and the delicate balance of trust within the agency. McCloskey also opens up about navigating criticism and imposter syndrome while maintaining a passion for storytelling, all while lamenting his Cleveland Indians.
Oct 23, 2024 • 15min
The DSR Daily for October 23: 2024 Election News Round-Up
As the 2024 election nears, Russian disinformation campaigns pose significant challenges to democracy. Bill Gates shifts his political stance with a $50 million donation to support Kamala Harris, highlighting billionaire influence in politics. Allegations of foreign meddling, particularly involving a British party, stir legal concerns. The rivalry between Trump and Obama adds tension, with Obama rallying support for Harris. Meanwhile, a lighthearted moment from a rally contrasts sharply with rising international tensions involving North Korea and Russia.
Oct 23, 2024 • 30min
The Daily Blast: How Trump Loses: The Hard Path to a Harris Victory, Explained by a Pro
Ron Brownstein, a veteran political journalist, dives into Kamala Harris's potential path to defeating Donald Trump in the nail-biting 2024 race. He outlines the need for Harris to secure massive wins in urban areas while curbing Trump's appeal among key demographics. Brownstein unpacks the significance of suburban voters, particularly educated women, and how shifts in voting patterns, especially among college-educated white men post-Dobbs, will influence the outcome. The conversation sheds light on the intricate voter dynamics and strategic complexities ahead.
Oct 22, 2024 • 34min
Siliconsciousness: In the Wilds of AI, Which Wolves are Closest to the Sled?
Sandra Wachter, a Professor of Technology and Regulation at the Oxford Internet Institute, shares her insights on the pressing issues surrounding artificial intelligence today. She emphasizes the critical need for ethical frameworks to combat bias in AI, revealing how these biases can exacerbate inequities in hiring and justice. The conversation also tackles the dangers of focusing too much on hypothetical AI threats while neglecting urgent societal challenges. Wachter highlights the importance of global collaboration to address socioeconomic disparities driven by technology.
Oct 22, 2024 • 26min
The DSR Daily for October 22: Blinken Heads Back to Middle East
Antony Blinken's return to the Middle East amid escalating tensions highlights a dire humanitarian crisis. Leaked U.S. intelligence about Israel's military plans raises eyebrows. Meanwhile, political drama unfolds as the Supreme Court declines to hear Michael Cohen's lawsuit against Trump, questioning judicial fairness. On a lighter note, the absence of proof for 2020 election fraud prompts humorous discussions about upcoming candidates and the importance of voter engagement.
Oct 22, 2024 • 26min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Bizarre Stunt at McDonald’s Fryer Blows Up in His Face
Join HuffPost senior reporter Jonathan Cohn as he delves into Donald Trump's recent McDonald's stunt in Pennsylvania. Cohn critiques Trump's evasive stance on raising the minimum wage, exposing the gap between his economic claims and reality. He contrasts this with Kamala Harris's authentic link to working-class issues, highlighting her detailed policies aimed at supporting middle and low-income families. The discussion sheds light on how personal narratives and political antics shape voter perceptions in today's political landscape.
Oct 21, 2024 • 23min
The DSR Daily for October 21: Musk’s Probably Illegal Lottery
The discussion kicks off with an urgent look at upcoming elections and widespread political anxiety. A deep dive into Moldova reveals Russian interference impacting its EU referendum, heightening geopolitical stakes. Controversy brews over Elon Musk’s questionable $1 million daily giveaway to voters, sparking ethical debates about democracy and wealth in politics. The Secret Service's failures during an assassination attempt come under scrutiny, raising alarms about security lapses at crucial moments in political history.
Oct 21, 2024 • 31min
The Daily Blast: Obama’s Brutal Takedown of Trump at Rally Reveals a Terrifying Truth
Michael Podhorzer, a veteran political strategist and analyst, warns about the risks of complacency in the face of Trump’s escalating rhetoric. He discusses Obama’s recent rally speech, emphasizing the dire implications of Trump’s threats. Podhorzer critiques media shortcomings, noting their failure to highlight the authoritarian dangers at play. The conversation also dives into the importance of engaging young voters and understanding voter perceptions shaped by recent economic conditions. It’s a wake-up call about the fragility of democracy.
Oct 20, 2024 • 49min
FTS: Are We Entering a New Nuclear Arms Race?
Heather Williams, Director of the Project on Nuclear Issues at CSIS, joins the conversation to tackle the potential resurgence of a nuclear arms race. With Russia’s bold nuclear drills and China’s expansive arsenal, the discussion delves into alarming trends in nuclear development and the shifting dynamics of U.S. nuclear posture. They explore the implications of a new U.S. nuclear weapon, the role of AI in defense strategies, and the precarious nature of global nuclear deterrence, all while weaving in humor and personal anecdotes to illuminate these serious topics.
