
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.
Latest episodes

May 1, 2025 • 18min
The DSR Daily for May 1: Senate Bid to Overturn Tariffs Falls Short
The Senate's recent attempt to overturn tariffs fell just short, sparking concerns about their ongoing impact on American consumers. A notable agreement was signed between the US and Ukraine, aiming to enhance resource access amidst ongoing conflict. The Supreme Court is deliberating a case involving taxpayer-funded religious charter schools, raising critical constitutional issues. The discussion also highlights a troubling trend toward authoritarianism in U.S. politics, juxtaposed with a glimmer of hope for future democratic resilience.

May 1, 2025 • 23min
The Daily Blast: Trump Rages Wildly over Humiliating GDP Data as Aides Calm His Fury
Alex Shephard, a senior editor at The New Republic, discusses Trump's recent outbursts over disappointing GDP figures and his attempts to shift blame onto Joe Biden. He examines the increasing unpopularity of Trump, attributing it to deeper structural issues in his presidency. The podcast highlights how Trump’s aides offer excessive flattery, creating a protective bubble that may ultimately backfire. Shephard warns that insulating Trump from reality will only exacerbate the challenges he faces, especially with looming economic crises and tariffs.

Apr 30, 2025 • 20min
The DSR Daily for April 30: The Government Crackdown on International Students
A new U.S. policy is cracking down on international students, raising serious concerns about their rights and opportunities. Reports reveal alarming levels of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia at Harvard, sparking debates about free expression on campus. Meanwhile, tensions escalate between India and Pakistan following a tragic incident in Kashmir, with potential global implications due to both nations' nuclear capabilities. The interplay of judicial controversies and governmental oversight further complicates this critical landscape.

Apr 30, 2025 • 23min
The Daily Blast: “He Was Pissed”: Trump’s Vile New Threat over Tariffs Takes Scary Turn
Melissa Deckman, a political scientist and CEO of PRRI, dives into the turbulent relationship between President Trump and Amazon, following his aggressive threats over tariffs. She discusses the unsettling implications of Trump's 'imperial presidency' and public sentiment regarding his authoritarian tendencies. A recent PRRI poll reveals a growing perception of Trump as a 'dangerous dictator,' highlighting concerns about his influence on governance. Deckman also explores how economic dissatisfaction is fueling alienation among Americans, particularly regarding the impact of tariffs.

Apr 29, 2025 • 20min
The DSR Daily for April 29: Carney and Liberals Win Big
Recent electoral wins for the Liberals in Canada signal a shift in public opinion influenced by U.S. politics. President Trump's move to ease tariffs on foreign auto parts aims to support U.S. automakers, raising questions about the effectiveness of his trade policies. The podcast also highlights the majority support for progressive issues in the U.S. and the need for increased voter participation. Additionally, a significant blackout in Spain and Portugal raises concerns about essential services, while proposed financial aid changes could harm low-income students.

Apr 29, 2025 • 21min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Fury at Bad Polls Goes Nuclear as Allies Rush to Calm Him Down
President Donald Trump is growing angrier over polls that keep showing him tanking. On Monday, he raged that polls sponsored by media outlets are “COMPROMISED AND CORRUPT.” He even quoted one of his own pollsters saying that surveys from The New York Times and The Washington Post are “FAKE POLLS,” something his pollster clearly hatched to calm his anger. So to what degree are the people around Trump simply lying to him about his disastrous reign? They’re deceiving him about the state of public opinion, and Stephen Miller is plainly seducing Trump into believing the Supreme Court sided with him on the Kilmar Abrego Garcia case, when it didn’t. We talked to journalist Michael Cohen, author of a new piece for his Truth and Consequences Substack about this problem. He explains how we know Trump’s aides are keeping him in a state of delusion, and why that’s heading to an alarming place. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

24 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 47min
AI, Energy and Climate: Jensen Huang: The Power of Intelligence Infrastructure.
Jensen Huang, Founder and CEO of NVIDIA, is at the forefront of the AI revolution shaping its future. He discusses how AI can tackle energy and climate challenges, emphasizing AI's role in processing data and predicting trends. Jensen explores the innovations in chip design that enhance efficiency while addressing AI's power consumption. He also highlights the emergence of AI factories and the importance of intelligence infrastructure. Additionally, he shares unique management strategies that foster communication and innovation within tech teams.

Apr 28, 2025 • 18min
The DSR Daily for April 28: Election Day in Canada
On the DSR Daily for Monday, we discuss Election Day in Canada, the Kremlin announcing a 3 day ceasefire in May, Catholic cardinals choosing May 7th for the conclave, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 28, 2025 • 23min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Fury over Abrego Garcia Case Darkens as Crushing New Polls Hit
Chris Newman, a lawyer for the Abrego Garcia family and general counsel for the National Day Labor Organizing Network, discusses the troubling implications of Trump's remarks on immigration law. He highlights how Trump's aggressive stance threatens due process for migrants while admitting to considering lawful channels for Abrego Garcia's case. Newman also draws parallels between Trump's approach and Bukele's authoritarianism in El Salvador, illustrating the shifting dynamics of public opinion on immigration and the legal complexities surrounding the case.

Apr 25, 2025 • 32min
Siliconsciousness: What the US Needs to Do to Better Prepare for What's to Come with AI
The last several administrations have faced an exponentially increasing need to grapple with the issue of artificial intelligence. But how does a government address a technology that affects nearly all corners of society, and what does this second Trump administration need to do to meet the moment? Vice president of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation Daniel Castro joins David Rothkopf to consider these questions and more.
This material is distributed by TRG Advisory Services, LLC on behalf of the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the U.S.. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, DC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices