The John Batchelor Show

S8 Ep485: Bangladesh's Political Turmoil and Rising Islamist Influence. Following the violent ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh faces severe political and economic instability under Tariq Rahman. Sadanand Dhume warns of a concerning Islamic revival

20 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Bangladesh's Political Turmoil and Rising Islamist Influence. Following the violent ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh faces severe p...

S8 Ep485: Viktor Orban's Dangerous Alliances with Russia and China. Facing domestic electoral pressures, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban manipulatively courts the Trump administration while deepening dangerous alliances with Russia and China. Ivana Stradner e

20 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Viktor Orban's Dangerous Alliances with Russia and China. Facing domestic electoral pressures, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban manipulatively c...

S8 Ep485: Confronting the Ignorance Fueling Anti-Israel Protests. Dismantling the arguments of global anti-Israel protesters, Peter Berkowitz highlights their culpable ignorance regarding Israel's defensive sovereignty. He refutes false accusations of colonialism,

20 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Confronting the Ignorance Fueling Anti-Israel Protests. Dismantling the arguments of global anti-Israel protesters, Peter Berkowitz highlights their ...

S8 Ep485: Trump's Middle East Legacy and Israel's Judicial Crisis. Examining the Trump administration's lasting diplomatic legacy, Peter Berkowitz praises the embassy move to Jerusalem, the withdrawal from the flawed Iran deal, and the strategic Abraham Accords. He

20 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Trump's Middle East Legacy and Israel's Judicial Crisis. Examining the Trump administration's lasting diplomatic legacy, Peter Berkowitz praises the ...

S8 Ep485: Defining Israel's Deep Political and Demographic Divides. Peter Berkowitz clarifies crucial definitions in Israeli politics, explaining why a one-state solution would destroy Israel's democratic and Jewish character. He outlines how traditional left-right

20 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Defining Israel's Deep Political and Demographic Divides. Peter Berkowitz clarifies crucial definitions in Israelipolitics, explaining why a one-state...

S8 Ep485: Israel's Initial Response to the October 7 Atrocities. Following the horrific October 7 attacks by Hamas, Israeli leaders reacted with understandable outrage and mobilized forcefully to neutralize the threat. While Hamas is currently severely degraded mil

20 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Israel's Initial Response to the October 7 Atrocities. Following the horrific October 7 attacks by Hamas, Israelileaders reacted with understandable ...

S8 Ep484: Guyana's Massive Oil Boom. Evan Ellis highlights the profound economic transformation of Guyana following the discovery of billions of barrels of light, sweet crude oil. Driven by massive investments from ExxonMobil and Chevron, the South American natio

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guyana's Massive Oil Boom. Evan Ellis highlights the profound economic transformation of Guyana following the discovery of billions of barrels of ligh...

S8 Ep484: Border Drone Threats, USMCA, and Venezuela. Evan Ellis discusses the closure of El Paso's airspace due to sophisticated cartel drones. He also highlights the critical necessity of renegotiating the USMCA to preserve Mexico's economy and cooperative securi

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Border Drone Threats, USMCA, and Venezuela. Evan Ellis discusses the closure of El Paso's airspace due to sophisticated cartel drones. He also highli...

S8 Ep484: Cuba's Severe Energy and Economic Collapse. Evan Ellis describes the catastrophic collapse of Cuba's economy. Cut off from Venezuelan and Mexican oil, the island faces severe rationing, blackouts, halted public services, and completely collapsed tourism.

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Cuba's Severe Energy and Economic Collapse. Evan Ellis describes the catastrophic collapse of Cuba's economy. Cut off from Venezuelan and Mexican oil,...

S8 Ep484: Peru's Political Crisis and Chinese Influence. Professor Evan Ellis details Peru's chronic political instability following the appointment of its eighth president in eight years. Amidst endemic corruption and a fragmented Congress, the nation is deeply in

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Peru's Political Crisis and Chinese Influence. Professor Evan Ellis details Peru's chronic political instability following the appointment of its eigh...

S8 Ep484: Modern Lessons from the Fed-Treasury Accord. Drawing parallels between 1951 and today, John Cochrane examines the tension between presidential administrations and the Federal Reserve during crises. He emphasizes that the Fed must maintain its independence

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Modern Lessons from the Fed-Treasury Accord. Drawing parallels between 1951 and today, John Cochrane examines the tension between presidential adminis...

S8 Ep484: Truman, the Fed, and the 1951 Accord. Professor John Cochrane explores the 1951 Treasury-Fed Accord during the Korean War. Fearing another World War II-style crisis, President Harry Truman pressured Fed Chairman Thomas McCabe to keep interest rates low. I

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Truman, the Fed, and the 1951 Accord. Professor John Cochrane explores the 1951 Treasury-Fed Accord during the Korean War. Fearing another World War I...

S8 Ep484: Negotiated Settlements and Expanding Security States. Anatol Lieven explains the European left's growing concerns about the Ukraine war fueling authoritarian security and surveillance measures. While a negotiated settlement requiring Ukraine to surrender

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Negotiated Settlements and Expanding Security States. Anatol Lieven explains the European left's growing concerns about the Ukraine war fueling author...

S8 Ep484: The European Left and the Ukraine Conflict. John Batchelor and Anatol Lieven discuss the European left's evolving stance on the Ukraine war. Facing economic strain, radical leftist parties are prioritizing peace and domestic issues over punishing Russia,

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

The European Left and the Ukraine Conflict. John Batchelor and Anatol Lieven discuss the European left's evolving stance on the Ukraine war. Facing ec...

S8 Ep483: Preview for later today. Peter Berkowitz of the Hoover Institution praises the former president for properly recognizing political realities by moving the embassy to Jerusalem and supporting Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Preview for later today. Peter Berkowitz of the Hoover Institution praises the former president for properly recognizing political realities by moving...

S8 Ep483: Preview for later today. Professor Evan Ellis examines Guyana's remarkable economic transformation driven by massive oil discoveries, suggesting its successful wealth management offers a valuable lesson for neighboring Venezuela as it rebuilds.

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Preview for later today. Professor Evan Ellis examines Guyana's remarkable economic transformation driven by massive oil discoveries, suggesting its s...

S8 Ep483: Preview for later today. Professor John Yoo of Berkeley Law explores Justice Scalia's legacy, emphasizing his defense of the unitary executive and belief that clear, predictable laws should govern independent federal agencies.

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Preview for later today. Professor John Yoo of Berkeley Law explores Justice Scalia's legacy, emphasizing his defense of the unitary executive and bel...

S8 Ep482: File: P-DHUME-2-19.mp3 Headline: Turmoil and Radicalization in Bangladesh Guest Name: Sadinand Dum 25 Word Summary: Following recent riots and the prime minister's flight to India, Bangladesh faces severe political turmoil as radical Islamist group Jamaat

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

File: P-DHUME-2-19.mp3 Headline: Turmoil and Radicalization in Bangladesh Guest Name: Sadinand Dum 25 Word Summary: Following recent riots and the pri...

S8 Ep482: File: P-LIEVEN-2-18.mp3 Headline: The European Left's Stance on Ukraine and Expansion Guest Name: Anatol Leven 25 Word Summary: The European left supports defending Europe but strongly opposes further NATO and EU expansion, viewing the European Union as a

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

File: P-LIEVEN-2-18.mp3 Headline: The European Left's Stance on Ukraine and Expansion Guest Name: Anatol Leven 25 Word Summary: The European left sup...

S8 Ep482: File: P-STRADNER-2-19.mp3 Headline: Viktor Orban's Continued Reliance on Russian Energy Guest Name: Stradner 25 Word Summary: Hungarian leader Viktor Orban falsely claims a lack of alternatives to Russian gas, prioritizing his grip on power and ties to Mo

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

File: P-STRADNER-2-19.mp3 Headline: Viktor Orban's Continued Reliance on Russian Energy Guest Name: Stradner 25 Word Summary: Hungarian leader Viktor...

S8 Ep481: SHOW SCHEDULE 2-18-2026

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

IRAN 1971113 Bayrock, Franchising, and Financial Rescue Craig Unger details how Bayrock, a firm of Soviet immigrants with mob ties located in Trump T...

S8 Ep480: 6 FBI Failures and the Mueller Limitations Unger argues the FBI failed to investigate Trump’s Russian ties, noting that former directors later worked for Russian mobsters. He claims the Mueller investigation was limited to criminal acts rather than counte

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

16  FBI Failures and the Mueller Limitations Unger argues the FBI failed to investigate Trump’s Russian ties, noting that former directors later ...

S8 Ep480: 15 Czech Security and the Ukrainian Mob Unger discusses how Czech intelligence monitored Ivana Trump and explores Trump's negotiations with Pavel Fuks, a Ukrainian developer described as "pure Russian mob". Fuks, who boasted of FSB ties, negotiated for a

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

15 Czech Security and the Ukrainian Mob Unger discusses how Czech intelligence monitored Ivana Trump and explores Trump's negotiations with Pavel Fuk...

S8 Ep480: 14 Epstein, Real Estate Flips, and Russian Ties The conversation shifts to Jeffrey Epstein’s mysterious links to Russian intelligence and his real estate dealings with Trump. Unger highlights a suspicious transaction where Trump bought a property and quic

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

14 Epstein, Real Estate Flips, and Russian Ties The conversation shifts to Jeffrey Epstein’s mysterious links to Russian intelligence and his real ...

S8 Ep480: 13 Bayrock, Franchising, and Financial Rescue Craig Unger details how Bayrock, a firm of Soviet immigrants with mob ties located in Trump Tower, rescued a bankrupt Trump. They introduced a risk-free franchising model, allowing Trump to profit from licensi

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

13 Bayrock, Franchising, and Financial Rescue Craig Unger details how Bayrock, a firm of Soviet immigrants with mob ties located in Trump Tower, resc...

S8 Ep479: 12. Using Starship to Chase Interstellar Comets Scientists propose a 2035 Starship mission to intercept an interstellar comet using a solar slingshot maneuver. Guest: Bob Zimmerman

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

12. Using Starship to Chase Interstellar Comets Scientists propose a 2035 Starship mission to intercept an interstellar comet using a solar slingshot...

S8 Ep478: 11. FAA Approves SpaceX Starship Launch Increase SpaceX secures approval for more launches while NASA's SLS rocket faces delays during wet dress rehearsal tests. Guest: Bob Zimmerman

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

11. FAA Approves SpaceX Starship Launch Increase SpaceX secures approval for more launches while NASA's SLS rocket faces delays during wet dress rehe...

S8 Ep478: 0. Strained US-Canada Relations Under Trump Prime Minister Carney gains approval by standing up to Trump, signaling a shift in Canadian trade sovereignty despite costs. Guest: David Hebert

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

0. Strained US-Canada Relations Under Trump Prime Minister Carney gains approval by standing up to Trump, signaling a shift in Canadian trade soverei...

S8 Ep478: 9. The Collapse of the US-Canada Friendship The historically strong US-Canada bond fractures under trade disputes and rhetoric, threatening long-term diplomatic and economic relationships. Guest: David Hebert

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

9. The Collapse of the US-Canada Friendship The historically strong US-Canada bond fractures under trade disputes and rhetoric, threatening long-term...

S8 Ep478: 8. Internal Power Struggles Within Iran's Military Tensions rise between the IRGC and the regular army as the regime faces increasing US pressure. Guest: Kamran Bokhari, Gordon Chang

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

RTHUR8. Internal Power Struggles Within Iran's Military Tensions rise between the IRGC and the regular army as the regime faces increasing US prORT es...

S8 Ep478: 7. China's Advanced Drone Warfare and Tech Theft Beijing develops intelligent drone swarms and advanced fighters using stolen technology to challenge US military dominance. Guest: Bill Gertz, Gordon Chang

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

7. China's Advanced Drone Warfare and Tech Theft Beijing develops intelligent drone swarms and advanced fighters using stolen technology to challenge...

S8 Ep478: 6. The Ethical Cost of Cobalt for Batteries The demand for cobalt in EVs and phones drives prices up while highlighting ethical issues in the Congo. Guest: Simon Constable

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

6. The Ethical Cost of Cobalt for Batteries The demand for cobalt in EVs and phones drives prices up while highlighting ethical issues in the Congo. ...

S8 Ep478: 5. Severe Flooding in France and Commodity Shifts Severe storms inundate France while gold and silver prices fluctuate due to shifting global economic policies. Guest: Simon Constable

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

5. Severe Flooding in France and Commodity Shifts Severe storms inundate France while gold and silver prices fluctuate due to shifting global economi...

S8 Ep478: 4. China's Critical Support for Iran and Russia Experts analyze how Beijing sustains Russia and Iran through technology transfers and sanctions evasion, complicating US strategy. Guest: Steve Yates, Gordon Chang

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

4. China's Critical Support for Iran and Russia Experts analyze how Beijing sustains Russia and Iran through technology transfers and sanctions evasi...

S8 Ep478: 3. Japan Stands Firm Against Chinese Aggression Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi vows to defend Taiwan, drawing ire from Beijing, while Europe slowly recognizes the Chinese threat. Guest: Steve Yates, Gordon Chang

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

3. Japan Stands Firm Against Chinese Aggression Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi vows to defend Taiwan, drawing ire from Beijing, while Europe slowly ...

S8 Ep478: 2. South Korea's Shift Toward China Under Lee President Lee Jae-myung pursues socialist policies and anti-US sentiment, raising concerns about South Korea's alignment with China. Guest: Tara O, Gordon Chang

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

2. South Korea's Shift Toward China Under Lee President Lee Jae-myung pursues socialist policies and anti-US sentiment, raising concerns about South ...

S8 Ep478: 1. US Naval Buildup Amidst Iran Negotiation Stalls Washington increases naval pressure as Iranian negotiators stall and China continues backing the regime amidst nuclear concerns. Guest: Victoria Coates, Gordon Chang

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

1. US Naval Buildup Amidst Iran Negotiation Stalls Washington increases naval pressure as Iranian negotiators stall and China continues backing the r...

S8 Ep477: PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY HEADLINE: Breaking US Dependency on Chinese Rare Earths 25 WORD SUMMARY: Victoria Coates discusses the strategic shift from the Biden administration's climate focus to a new effort to stockpile rare earth minerals and reduce relian

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAYHEADLINE: Breaking US Dependency on Chinese Rare Earths25 WORD SUMMARY: Victoria Coates discusses the strategic shift from the ...

S8 Ep477: PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY HEADLINE: Keir Starmer Facing Severe Political Headwinds 25 WORD SUMMARY: Simon Constable reports on the intense media barrage and internal party dissent facing Keir Starmer, which threatens to derail his ability to govern effectiv

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAYHEADLINE: Keir Starmer Facing Severe Political Headwinds25 WORD SUMMARY: Simon Constable reports on the intense media barrage a...

S8 Ep477: PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY HEADLINE: Beijing’s Global Strategy to Weaken America 25 WORD SUMMARY: Bill Gertz warns that China is covertly arming Russia and supporting US enemies as part of a broader strategy to displace and destroy the United States. GUEST:

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAYHEADLINE: Beijing’s Global Strategy to Weaken America25 WORD SUMMARY: Bill Gertz warns that China is covertly arming Russia a...

S8 Ep477: PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY HEADLINE: Canada Pushes Back Against US Trade Pressure 25 WORD SUMMARY: David Heert explains how Prime Minister Mark Carney is gaining political support by standing up to President Trump’s rhetoric, despite the potential economic c

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAYHEADLINE: Canada Pushes Back Against US Trade Pressure25 WORD SUMMARY: David Heert explains how Prime Minister Mark Carney is g...

S8 Ep477: REVIEW FOR LATER TODAY HEADLINE: The Defense of Western Civilization in Europe 25 WORD SUMMARY: Steve Yates analyzes the reception of American defense of Western values in Europe, noting a clash with entrenched ideologies at the Munich Conference. GUEST:

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

REVIEW FOR LATER TODAYHEADLINE: The Defense of Western Civilization in Europe25 WORD SUMMARY: Steve Yates analyzes the reception of American defense o...

S8 Ep477: HEADLINE: A Mission to Catch an Interstellar Comet 25 WORD SUMMARY: Bob Zimmerman outlines an ambitious scientific proposal to launch a Starship in 2035 that would sling-shot around the sun to intercept a distant comet. GUEST: Bob Zimmerman, Science Write

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

HEADLINE: A Mission to Catch an Interstellar Comet25 WORD SUMMARY: Bob Zimmerman outlines an ambitious scientific proposal to launch a Starship in 20...

S8 Ep476: SHOW SCHEDULE 2-17-2026

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

1917 EDGAR RICE BURROUGHS. MARS1.Liz Peek discusses the market's current drift and the continued dominance of Artificial Intelligence, arguing AI is ...

S8 Ep476: Gregory Copley notes that despite scandals surrounding Prince Andrew, the Royal Family remains essential glue holding the UK and Commonwealth together, with the King and working royals performing vital diplomatic functions while spares struggle without de

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

  Gregory Copley notes that despite scandals surrounding Prince Andrew, the Royal Family remains essential glue holding the UK and Commonwealth toge...

S8 Ep476: Gregory Copley argues Europe suffers from a leadership vacuum caused by post-WWII dependency on the US and bureaucratic corrosion within the EU, with economic recovery requiring slashing regulations as current welfare models become unsustainable amidst ge

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Gregory Copley argues Europe suffers from a leadership vacuum caused by post-WWII dependency on the US and bureaucratic corrosion within the EU, with...

S8 Ep476: Gregory Copley reports Nigerian President Tinubu advocates for an African credit rating agency to reduce reliance on external assessments from firms like Moody's, reflecting growing desire for statistical independence and better quantification of local ec

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Gregory Copley reports Nigerian President Tinubu advocates for an African credit rating agency to reduce reliance on external assessments from firms ...

S8 Ep476: Gregory Copley of Defense & Foreign Affairs discusses the US deployment of one hundred troops to Nigeria to counter ISIS and Boko Haram, arguing stability requires addressing economic disenfranchisement from damming the River Niger rather than treating sy

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Gregory Copley of Defense & Foreign Affairs discusses the US deployment of one hundred troops to Nigeria to counter ISIS and Boko Haram, arguing ...

S8 Ep476: Alejandro Peña Esclusa discusses the reported capture of Nicolás Maduro, described as a Cuban asset and drug cartel leader, noting Venezuelans are cautiously celebrating with open protests while threats remain from radical groups and international frictio

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Alejandro Peña Esclusa discusses the reported capture of Nicolás Maduro, described as a Cuban asset and drug cartel leader, noting Venezuelans are ...

S8 Ep476: Alejandro Peña Esclusa details his transition from businessman to Venezuela's first political prisoner as Hugo Chávez, aided by the São Paulo Forum, dismantled democracy, recounting cacerolazo pot-banging protests and how the regime systematically destroy

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Alejandro Peña Esclusa details his transition from businessman to Venezuela's first political prisoner as Hugo Chávez, aided by the São Paulo Foru...

S8 Ep476: Joseph Sternberg analyzes Prime Minister Keir Starmer's crash and burn scenario despite a large parliamentary majority, weakened by scandals and party infighting, with survival relying on the lack of compelling alternatives while constant policy reversals

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Joseph Sternberg analyzes Prime Minister Keir Starmer's crash and burn scenario despite a large parliamentary majority, weakened by scandals and part...

S8 Ep476: Joseph Sternberg of the Wall Street Journal discusses European leaders finally addressing the continent's economic dysfunction compared to the US, noting proposals for a twenty-eighth regime to simplify business laws while politicians like Meloni and Merz

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Joseph Sternberg of the Wall Street Journal discusses European leaders finally addressing the continent's economic dysfunction compared to the US, no...

S8 Ep475: Jonathan Schanzer describes Syria as effectively a Turkish proxy state viewed with danger by the region, discussing President Trump's announcement of five billion dollars from the Board of Peace for Gaza while expressing skepticism about Turkey and Qata

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Jonathan Schanzer describes Syria as effectively a Turkish proxy state viewed with danger by the region, discussing President Trump's announcement of ...

S8 Ep475: Jonathan Schanzer of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies analyzes Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan's disingenuous peace efforts, discusses US demands for Iran's total nuclear dismantlement, and highlights strategic confusion regarding the Board

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Jonathan Schanzer of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies analyzes Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan's disingenuous peace efforts, discusses U...

S8 Ep475: Mary Kissel analyzes the massive US naval deployment near Iran as a credible threat to force regime compliance, dismissing Iran's military drills in the Straits of Hormuz as feeble, suggesting the administration will use force if Tehran refuses dismantlem

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Mary Kissel analyzes the massive US naval deployment near Iran as a credible threat to force regime compliance, dismissing Iran's military drills in ...

S8 Ep475: Mary Kissel praises Secretary Rubio's Munich speech for emphasizing Western defense but notes he was softer on China than expected, arguing Europe only strengthens military commitments when shamed by the US or facing immediate threats.

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Mary Kissel praises Secretary Rubio's Munich speech for emphasizing Western defense but notes he was softer on China than expected, arguing Europe on...

S8 Ep475: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Mart identify a leadership void in Europe, noting weakness in Macron and Starmer, arguing Europe possesses treaty tools for defense but lacks political will, often blaming Donald Trump rather than addressing internal paralysis.

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Mart identify a leadership void in Europe, noting weakness in Macron and Starmer, arguing Europe possesses treaty tools for...

S8 Ep475: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus McCotter dismiss Poland's reparation demands from Russia as political jostling, criticize Senator Rubio's visit to Hungary for bolstering Viktor Orbán, and note the Wagner Group's reported return to Europe as destabilizing.

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus McCotter dismiss Poland's reparation demands from Russia as political jostling, criticize Senator Rubio's visit to Hungary...

S8 Ep475: Liz Peek critiques California Governor Gavin Newsom, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, citing California's struggles with homelessness, illegal immigration, and a wealth tax driving residents away, characterizing him as a catastrophe whose record u

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Liz Peek critiques California Governor Gavin Newsom, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, citing California'sstruggles with homelessness, illegal...

S8 Ep475: Liz Peek discusses the market's current drift and the continued dominance of Artificial Intelligence, arguing AI is not a bubble but a rapidly adopted technology transforming productivity, with companies underhiring as they assess impact and investors nee

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Liz Peek discusses the market's current drift and the continued dominance of Artificial Intelligence, arguing AI is not a bubble but a rapidly adopte...

S8 Ep474: EUROPEAN REGULATORY REFORM PREVIEW FOR LATER: Joseph Sternberg discusses how unlikely political coalitions in Europe, such as Merz and Meloni, are aligning to push for less EU regulation to boost economic competitiveness. Guest: Joseph Sternberg

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

EUROPEAN REGULATORY REFORM PREVIEW FOR LATER: Joseph Sternberg discusses how unlikely political coalitions in Europe, such as Merz and Meloni, are ali...

S8 Ep474: UBIO’S MUNICH SPEECH PREVIEW FOR LATER: Judy Dempsey reports that Marco Rubio's Munich speech was poorly received, described as vapid and lacking reassurance regarding the US commitment to European allies. Guest: Judy Dempsey

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

UBIO’S MUNICH SPEECH PREVIEW FOR LATER: Judy Dempsey reports that Marco Rubio's Munich speech was poorly received, described as vapid and lacking r...

S8 Ep474: THE CHINA TRADE PARADOX PREVIEW FOR LATER: Mary Kissel explains the paradox of the West continuing trade with China despite its support for Russia's war, unlike the severed commercial ties with Moscow. Guest: Mary Kissel

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

THE CHINA TRADE PARADOX PREVIEW FOR LATER: Mary Kissel explains the paradox of the West continuing trade with China despite its support for Russia's ...

S8 Ep474: BIG OIL’S STRATEGIC PIVOT PREVIEW FOR LATER: Liz Peek details how big oil companies are pivoting back to fossil fuels from renewables, recognizing the indefinite global demand for oil and new resources. Guest: Liz Peek

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

BIG OIL’S STRATEGIC PIVOT PREVIEW FOR LATER: Liz Peek details how big oil companies are pivoting back to fossil fuels from renewables, recognizing ...

S8 Ep474: VENEZUELA’S ANTI-AMERICAN TURN PREVIEW FOR LATER: Alejandro Peña Esclusa describes how Hugo Chávez, under Castro's orders, turned prosperous Venezuela into an anti-American state allied with China, Russia, and Iran. Guest: Alejandro Peña Esclusa

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

VENEZUELA’S ANTI-AMERICAN TURN PREVIEW FOR LATER: Alejandro Peña Esclusa describes how Hugo Chávez, under Castro's orders, turned prosperous Vene...

S8 Ep474: REGIONAL ANXIETY OVER SYRIA PREVIEW FOR LATER: Jonathan Schanzer analyzes regional fears regarding Syria, where neighbors worry about a potential al-Qaeda regime or a proxy government controlled by Turkey's Erdogan. Guest: Jonathan Schanzer

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

REGIONAL ANXIETY OVER SYRIA PREVIEW FOR LATER: Jonathan Schanzer analyzes regional fears regarding Syria, where neighbors worry about a potential al-...

S8 Ep473: SHOW SCHEDULE 2-16

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. This segment introduces the "Jesse Scouts," a Union special forces unit formed by John Frémont and named after his wife...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Michael Vorenberg. General Grant found himself caught between a hostile President Johnson and Secretary Stanton. Vorenberg describes the disastrous "swing around the circle" tour, where Johnson used Grant's popularity as a shield while making embar

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Michael Vorenberg. General Grant found himself caught between a hostile President Johnson and Secretary Stanton. Vorenberg describes the disas...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Michael Vorenberg. To undercut radicals, Johnson followed Seward's advice to declare the insurrection ended by executive proclamation in 1866. Vorenberg notes this "official" peace ignored realities like the New Orleans massacre. Simultaneously,

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Michael Vorenberg. To undercut radicals, Johnson followed Seward's advice to declare the insurrection ended by executive proclamation in 1866....

S8 Ep472: Guest: Michael Vorenberg. Vorenberg explains how President Johnson's racism and desire for a hasty peace alienated Congress. Johnson vetoed the Civil Rights and Freedman's Bureau Acts, arguing the war was over. Republicans, however, insisted war powers re

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Michael Vorenberg. Vorenberg explains how President Johnson's racism and desire for a hasty peace alienated Congress. Johnson vetoed the Civil...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Michael Vorenberg. Vorenberg discusses Richard Henry Dana's "Grasp of War" speech, which argued the war could not end until the victor secured guarantees against future conflict. This philosophy, demanding the enemy be held down, contrasted sharply

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Michael Vorenberg. Vorenberg discusses Richard Henry Dana's "Grasp of War" speech, which argued the war could not end until the victor secured...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Michael Vorenberg. The government utilizes military tribunals to try Lincoln's assassins and Andersonville commandant Henry Wirz, arguing the war is ongoing. Prosecutors hope to pressure Wirz into implicating Jefferson Davis in prisoner atrocities

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Michael Vorenberg. The government utilizes military tribunals to try Lincoln's assassins and Andersonvillecommandant Henry Wirz, arguing the w...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Michael Vorenberg. While the Grand Review celebrates victory in Washington, General Sheridan is sent to the Texas border with 50,000 troops to counter French imperial ambitions in Mexico and suppress remaining Confederate resistance. Meanwhile, Con

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Michael Vorenberg. While the Grand Review celebrates victory in Washington, General Sheridan is sent to the Texas border with 50,000 troops to...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Michael Vorenberg. Following Lincoln's assassination, General Sherman negotiates a surrender with Confederate General Johnston at Bennett Place. Sherman attempts to secure a comprehensive peace including civil matters, but officials in Washington,

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Michael Vorenberg. Following Lincoln's assassination, General Sherman negotiates a surrender with Confederate General Johnston at Bennett Plac...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Michael Vorenberg. At Appomattox, Grant offers generous terms allowing Confederates to keep horses and sidearms. However, Lincoln does not immediately declare the war over; in his final speech, he focuses on the complex path to peace and suffrage,

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Michael Vorenberg. At Appomattox, Grant offers generous terms allowing Confederates to keep horses and sidearms. However, Lincoln does not imm...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Robert E. Lee rejects the option of guerrilla warfare at Appomattox, choosing surrender to preserve the nation. Years later, former partisan John Singleton Mosby becomes close friends with U.S. Grant and joins the Republican P

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Robert E. Lee rejects the option of guerrilla warfare at Appomattox, choosing surrender to preserve the nation. Years la...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Harry Harrison Young takes command of the Jesse Scouts, serving as Sheridan's strategic eyes in Confederate uniforms. These daring scouts deceive enemy forces and carry messages through enemy lines, enabling Sheridan to move h

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Harry Harrison Young takes command of the Jesse Scouts, serving as Sheridan'sstrategic eyes in Confederate uniforms. The...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Lewis Powell, the Ranger who captured Blazer, is revealed to be a Confederate Secret Service operative working with John Wilkes Booth. Powell returns to Baltimore to aid in a plot to kidnap Lincoln, while Mosby deploys troops

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Lewis Powell, the Ranger who captured Blazer, is revealed to be a Confederate Secret Service operative working with John ...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Grant orders total war in the Shenandoah Valley to crush Mosby's Rangers. Although Richard Blazer's scouts initially have success with Spencer carbines, they are eventually lured into a trap and annihilated by Mosby's men at K

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Grant orders total war in the Shenandoah Valley to crush Mosby's Rangers. Although Richard Blazer's scouts initially hav...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Confederate General Jubal Early threatens Washington, D.C., where Lincoln witnesses the battle at Fort Stevens. Meanwhile, partisan leader John Mosby operates independently, capturing Union forces at Mount Zion Church. O'Donne

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Confederate General Jubal Early threatens Washington, D.C., where Lincoln witnesses the battle at Fort Stevens. Meanwhil...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. A failed Union raid on Richmond carrying orders to kill Jefferson Davis prompts the Confederacy to escalate irregular warfare and political influence operations. As the Confederate Secret Service aids the Copperhead movement,

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. A failed Union raid on Richmond carrying orders to kill Jefferson Davis prompts the Confederacy to escalate irregular wa...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Richard Blazer leads the "Legion of Honor," a hunter-killer team using Jesse Scout tradecraft to fight Confederate partisans in West Virginia. Blazer employs detective work to track down the ruthless Thurman brothers, who atta

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. Richard Blazer leads the "Legion of Honor," a hunter-killer team using Jesse Scouttradecraft to fight Confederate partis...

S8 Ep472: Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. This segment introduces the "Jesse Scouts," a Union special forces unit formed by John Frémont and named after his wife. Led by figures like John Charles Carpenter, these men wore Confederate disguises to infiltrate enemy line

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. This segment introduces the "Jesse Scouts," a Union special forces unit formed by John Frémont and named after his wife...

S8 Ep471: PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Michael Vorenberg. Vorenberg discusses how President Johnson's obstructionism inadvertently unified Republicans, enabling the passage of the Reconstruction Acts and the 14th and 15th Amendments.

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Michael Vorenberg. Vorenberg discusses how President Johnson'sobstructionism inadvertently unified Republicans, enablin...

S8 Ep471: PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Patrick O'Donnell. O'Donnell details the Confederate Secret Service's original, failed plot to kidnap President Lincoln and whisk him to Richmond using a network of safe houses.

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Patrick O'Donnell. O'Donnell details the Confederate Secret Service'soriginal, failed plot to kidnap President Lincoln ...

S8 Ep471: PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. O'Donnell explains how General Sheridan utilized "special forces" scouts to identify Confederate weak points at Five Forks, leading to Lee's evacuation and surrender.

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Patrick K. O'Donnell. O'Donnell explains how General Sheridan utilized "special forces" scouts to identify Confederate ...

S8 Ep471: TARIFFS: Guest: Richard Epstein. Epstein discusses President Trump's reported plan to roll back aluminum tariffs, a reaction to rising consumer costs and the president's falling poll numbers.

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

TARIFFS:  Guest: Richard Epstein. Epstein discusses President Trump's reported plan to roll back aluminum tariffs, a reaction to rising consumer cos...

S8 Ep470: SCOTUS:: Guest: Richard Epstein. Epstein analyzes the legal implications of President Trumpfiring Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook, debating the limits of the unitary executive power.

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

SCOTUS:: Guest: Richard Epstein. Epstein analyzes the legal implications of President Trumpfiring Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook, debating the lim...

S8 Ep469: 3. Michael Vlahos as Germanicus explores with Gaius the seventeenth-century practice of dynastic marriage as a superior geopolitical tool compared to modern warfare's impulse toward total destruction. Gaius highlights the unions connecting the Hapsburg

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

3.Michael Vlahos as Germanicus explores with Gaius the seventeenth-century practice of dynastic marriage as a superior geopolitical tool compared to m...

S8 Ep469: 2. Michael Vlahos as Germanicus joins Gaius in examining the elite obsession with Jeffrey Epstein through a historical lens of witchcraft and sorcery accusations. Gaius introduces an analogy involving Louis XIII using accusations of witchcraft to explain

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

2.Michael Vlahos as Germanicus joins Gaius in examining the elite obsession with Jeffrey Epstein through a historical lens of witchcraft and sorcery a...

S8 Ep468: 1. Michael Vlahos as Germanicus debates Gaius in Londinium on parallels between FDR's strategic pivoting in 1941 and the modern United States facing a two-front confrontation against Russia and China. While FDR successfully managed a global vision across

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

  1.Michael Vlahos as Germanicus debates Gaius in Londinium on parallels between FDR's strategic pivoting in 1941 and the modern United States facin...

S8 Ep467: 8. Guest: Hampton Sides. Retreating to Hawaii's Kealakekua Bay during a festival, Cook is welcomed as the god Lono. However, a broken mast forces an unwelcome return during a season of war. Tensions rise over a stolen boat, leading Cook to attempt kidn

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

8.  Guest: Hampton Sides. Retreating to Hawaii's Kealakekua Bay during a festival, Cook is welcomed as the god Lono. However, a broken mast forces an...

S8 Ep467: 7. Guest: Hampton Sides. Cook maps the North American coast, stopping at Nootka Sound for repairs before charting Alaska. Searching for the Northwest Passage, they enter the Bering Sea. There, they encounter the "Ice Blink" and an impenetrable ice wall,

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

7.  Guest: Hampton Sides. Cook maps the North American coast, stopping at Nootka Sound for repairs before charting Alaska. Searching for the Northwe...

S8 Ep466: 6.. Guest: Hampton Sides. Cook unexpectedly discovers the Hawaiian Islands, landing at Kauai. He is amazed by the sophisticated agriculture and aqueducts but stays briefly, rushing toward the Arctic. This first contact is mutual puzzlement; locals view t

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

6..  Guest: Hampton Sides. Cook unexpectedly discovers the Hawaiian Islands, landing at Kauai. He is amazed by the sophisticated agriculture and aque...

S8 Ep466: 5. Guest: Hampton Sides. At Moorea, a stolen goat triggers a terrifying rage in Cook, who burns houses and canoes in retribution, shocking his officers. Sides reveals that after being left behind, Mai used British weapons in local conflicts but died youn

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

5.  Guest: Hampton Sides. At Moorea, a stolen goat triggers a terrifying rage in Cook, who burns houses and canoes in retribution, shocking his offic...

S8 Ep466: 4. Guest: Hampton Sides. Arriving in the Society Islands, the crew enjoys Tahiti while Cook focuses on settling Mai. Cook attempts to secure Mai's future, but Mai refuses an arranged marriage. Red feathers become valuable currency. Ultimately, Cook leave

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

4.  Guest: Hampton Sides. Arriving in the Society Islands, the crew enjoys Tahiti while Cook focuses on settling Mai. Cook attempts to secure Mai's f...

S8 Ep466: 3. an open sailing path. Guest: Hampton Sides. Cook displays uncharacteristic recklessness and a darkening temper as they sail south with the Polynesian Mai. They make peaceful contact with Tasmania's Palawa people before visiting New Zealand. There, Coo

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

3.  an open sailing path.Guest: Hampton Sides. Cook displays uncharacteristic recklessness and a darkening temper as they sail south with the Polynes...

S8 Ep466: 2. Guest: Hampton Sides. Sides introduces the officers of the Resolution and Discovery, including the tubercular Captain Charles Clerke and the skilled but insufferable William Bligh. The mission is fueled by Daines Barrington'sscientifically flawed theo

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

2.  Guest: Hampton Sides. Sides introduces the officers of the Resolution and Discovery, including the tubercular Captain Charles Clerke and the skil...

S8 Ep466: 1. Guest: Hampton Sides. In February 1776, Captain James Cook is enjoying a comfortable retirement at Greenwich Hospital. Dining with Lord Sandwich, First Lord of the Admiralty, Cook learns of a proposed third voyage to find the fabled Northwest Passage.

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

1.  Guest: Hampton Sides. In February 1776, Captain James Cook is enjoying a comfortable retirement at Greenwich Hospital. Dining with Lord Sandwich,...

S8 Ep465: 4. Guest: Richard Snow. Snow details the controversial legal aftermath, where Captain Mackenzie faced a court-martial for the executions. Despite political pressure and a tarnished reputation, Mackenzie was legally cleared, leaving the true nature of the

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

4.  Guest: Richard Snow. Snow details the controversial legal aftermath, where Captain Mackenzie faced a court-martial for the executions. Despite po...