American Prestige

Nicholas Mulder, a historian and writer at Weltinnenpolitik, dives into Trump’s tariff strategies and their impact on global economics. He examines how Trump's policies avoid taxing finance while increasing costs for U.S. allies. Mulder describes this approach as a 'subscription model' of empire rather than a solid industrial strategy. He also discusses the unintended consequences in countries like India and Europe, and how economic coercion has affected immigration policies and partnerships. The conversation reveals the complexities of U.S. economic influence in a shifting global landscape.

Murtaza Hussain, an investigative journalist at Drop Site News, dives deep into Jeffrey Epstein's tangled web of elite connections. He discusses how Epstein acted as a crucial link between powerful figures in Israel and Russia during the Syrian civil war. Hussain reveals Epstein's discreet role in facilitating meetings and negotiations, including his relationships with Russian oligarchs and Israeli leaders like Ehud Barak. The podcast explores why mainstream media hesitated to cover Epstein's political clout, shedding light on the hidden dynamics of power and influence.

Nathaniel Powell, a West and Southern Africa analyst, shares his insights on the ongoing post-election turmoil in Cameroon. He discusses President Paul Biya's controversial strategies for maintaining power since 1979, including repression and political co-option. Powell scrutinizes the implications of alleged vote manipulation and examines the muted responses from international actors. He also highlights the risks of instability in the region following Biya’s administration, painting a compelling picture of Cameroon’s political landscape.

In this conversation, Jamie Beran, CEO of Bend the Arc, dives into the evolving political dynamics within the American Jewish community. He highlights the intense reactions to Zoran Mamdani’s mayoral campaign and how it acted as a rallying point against MAGA. Jamie explores deep-seated biases and the impact of Israel-Palestine discussions on unity. He advocates for coalition-building while acknowledging the challenges of maintaining alliances post-campaign, emphasizing the need for resilience in progressive movements.

Omar Zahzah, Assistant Professor at San Francisco State University and author of *Terms of Servitude*, explores the intersection of technology and Palestine. He discusses the Sheikh Jarrah uprising and how digital settler colonialism differs from digital apartheid. Zahzah highlights Meta's role in censorship and the ties between Israeli defense forces and Silicon Valley. He emphasizes the power of social media in reshaping narratives and advocates for Palestinian creativity amid ongoing digital repression.

Jasper Nathaniel, an independent reporter and Substack writer of Infinite Jazz, shares his harrowing experiences reporting on settler violence in the West Bank. He details the escalating attacks during the olive harvest, framing it as a flashpoint for violence. Nathaniel discusses the troubling dynamics in Turmus Aya and the troubling shift in Israeli policy that empowers these aggressors. He recounts a brutal ambush he witnessed firsthand and highlights the lack of accountability for perpetrators. Nathaniel advocates for international presence to protect Palestinian communities.

Tim Shenk, a historian at George Washington University, explores the shifting landscape of American liberal politics. He highlights how the Cold War era purged the left and led to the rise of a managerial elite. The discussion includes the decline of organized labor, the financialization of the economy, and the missed opportunities for populist coalitions post-Obama. Shenk critiques the Democratic Party's focus on cultural representation over class issues, urging a return to social-democratic policies to enhance material wellbeing for all.

In a whirlwind of current events, hosts dive into Trump's bold threats regarding Nigeria and the ever-shifting dynamics in Gaza amid a fragile ceasefire. They discuss record violence in the West Bank during the olive harvest and the dire situation in Sudan, where famine has been declared. Controversies unfold as the UAE emerges as a global gold smuggling hub linked to conflict, while the situation in Ukraine intensifies with Russian advances. They also explore speculations around U.S. military maneuvers in Mexico and Venezuela.

In this insightful discussion, journalist Spencer Ackerman, known for his newsletter Forever Wars and book Reign of Terror, dives into the complex legacy of Dick Cheney. They explore Cheney's pivotal role in shaping the War on Terror and its profound human costs. Ackerman also unpacks Cheney's controversial views on executive power and his unique co-presidency with George W. Bush. From his political origins to his reaction against post-Watergate reforms, this conversation sheds light on the lasting impact of Cheney's decisions on American politics.

In this discussion, journalist John Lechner, author of *Death Is Our Business*, explores the complex world of the Wagner Group and its notorious leader Yevgeny Prigozhin. With roots in post-Soviet chaos, Prigozhin evolved from a caterer to a military entrepreneur, blurring lines between state and private military forces. Lechner reveals Wagner's unique business model, the company's expansion into Africa, and the controversies surrounding its tactics in Ukraine. The conversation also delves into the implications of Prigozhin's dramatic rise and suspicious death.