Scott Horton Show - Just the Interviews

Mike Benz, founder of the Foundation for Freedom Online and an expert on the censorship industrial complex, dives deep into how government, corporations, and NGOs collude to shape public understanding. He discusses the influence of foreign powers and the political ramifications of censorship in the U.S., particularly during the Trump era. Benz also highlights how universities serve state agendas and explores the role of organizations like Indivisible in orchestrating protests. His insights into the intertwining of funding, policy, and free speech are thought-provoking and timely.

Larry C. Johnson, a former CIA officer and intelligence analyst, shares insights from his recent trip to Russia. He discusses misconceptions about U.S. leverage over Russia and Putin’s goals, emphasizing Russia's military advancements. Johnson challenges the narrative behind U.S. strikes in Venezuela and highlights the chaos that could ensue from regime change. He argues for addressing drug trafficking through financial means rather than militarization, and reflects on media control, contrasting U.S. corporate influence with Russian diversity in viewpoints.

In this conversation, Bill Buppert, a former U.S. military officer and Smedley D. Butler Fellow for Military Affairs, critiques the failures of American militarism since 1945. He shares insights from his military background and discusses his research on irregular warfare, highlighting lessons from historical conflicts. Buppert examines the consequences of Obama's interventions in Libya and the ongoing issues in Somalia. He also addresses the impact of modern technology on warfare and the challenges of Pentagon bureaucracy, drawing parallels with the show 'Yes Minister'.

José Niño, a Venezuelan-American journalist and deputy editor at Headline USA, dives into the tumultuous U.S.-Venezuela relations, focusing on the Trump administration's push for regime change. He critiques the U.S. military's approach and highlights the moral and strategic costs of potential invasions. Niño also discusses the historical context of Venezuelan nationalism, the complexities of opposition, and how regime change serves various U.S. domestic agendas. It's an insightful conversation that uncovers the tangled web of geopolitics and economic interests.

In this discussion, Daniel L. Davis, a former U.S. Army officer and expert on military strategy, shares insights on several global conflicts. He analyzes the complex dynamics in Ukraine, explaining Russia's territorial ambitions and the challenges of negotiations. The conversation shifts to Gaza, where Davis emphasizes the need for political solutions amid ongoing violence. Additionally, he discusses the Taliban's impact in Afghanistan and outlines the potential for U.S. military action against Venezuela, warning of the risks of escalation.

Ted Snider, a Fellow at The Libertarian Institute and keen analyst of U.S. foreign policy, delves into the current Ukraine war dynamics. He argues that earlier compromises could have averted escalation and highlights the essential guarantees Russia needs regarding NATO. Snider discusses Ukraine's battlefield limitations and examines the economic pressures both nations face under sanctions. He sheds light on recent Russian drone incidents over Poland, suggesting they were cautionary rather than aggressive, emphasizing the necessity of negotiation to avoid further conflict.

Matthew Hoh, a former Marine and State Department whistleblower, shares his insights on the war in Afghanistan and critiques General David Petraeus's legacy. He discusses his initial skepticism towards the antiwar movement, urging veterans to document their experiences for future advocacy. Hoh explains how American military strategies often backfire, citing the detrimental effects of the Iraq surge model in Afghanistan. He also highlights the disconnect between military leadership and the realities on the ground, emphasizing a culture of conformity that stifles dissent.

Dr. Anas Ahmed, a physician from Ohio, shares his harrowing experiences after deploying to Gaza with the Palestinian American Medical Association in 2025. He discusses the chaos of working at Al-Aqsa Hospital amid bombings and mass casualties, revealing the emotional and physical toll on medical staff. The heartbreaking realities include limited supplies, high infection risks, and the disproportionate impact on children. Ahmed calls for empathy towards the victims and emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

In this discussion, Jason Jones, a film producer and activist leading The Vulnerable People Project, shares insights on delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and the complexities involved. He recounts his experiences in aiding vulnerable communities and navigating political tensions. Personal stories spotlight the resilience of those in crisis, while reflections on moral responsibilities and the emotional impact of war underscore the importance of empathy. Jones emphasizes innovative strategies to support vulnerable populations amidst ongoing despair.

Wally Rashid, an innovative entrepreneur and analyst, joins the discussion on organizing the Freedom Flotilla to deliver crucial aid to Gaza amid ongoing conflict. He reveals the recent drone attacks faced by the flotilla, highlighting the urgent need for non-violent humanitarian efforts. Rashid also delves into the story of Congressman James Traficant, who faced imprisonment due to his criticism of U.S. policies toward Israel, showcasing the influence of lobbying on political decisions. Their conversation uncovers the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader implications for the region.