Ep 231: What’s Really Happening in Iran: Propaganda, AI, and the Link with COVID with Patrick Henningsen

You can ask Patrick your questions LIVE.We’re hosting a private Q&A with Patrick Henningsen on May 18th - an opportunity to connect directly and ask your questions in real time.This session is reserved for members - join here to access.As an active journalist, Patrick’s schedule can shift quickly - if needed, we’ll keep members updated with any changes.Mainstream media is not telling the whole truth about the war.Award-winning independent journalist and geopolitical analyst Patrick Henningsen shares a perspective shaped by years of reporting from conflict zones and building alternative media platforms outside of institutional control. Patrick Henningsen’s work spans on-the-ground coverage in places like Syria and Iraq, alongside founding 21st Century Wire and contributing to outlets like UK Column News, all while advocating for free speech and a truly independent press.Our discussion moves through how narratives take shape through propaganda, the war in Iran, why modern media environments strip away nuance, and how experiences surrounding events like the Iraq War shifted his understanding of power and public perception. Attention is also given to the cost of challenging consensus during COVID-19, especially for those unwilling to self-censor in the face of institutional pressure.At its core, this is an exploration of media literacy, the role of independent journalism, and what it takes to think clearly in a landscape shaped by competing narratives and hidden incentives.You’ll learn:[00:00] Introduction[03:49] An art degree and Soviet propaganda prepared Patrick for everything[15:53] Why he went all-in on COVID truth when everyone else got silent[29:51] What Patrick saw in Iran the week before the bombs dropped[38:06] The playbook they ran inside Iran before the bombs fell[01:02:17] Everything Americans think about Iran's government is backwards[01:42:06] Soldiers described their orders in Gaza, and it's on paper[02:11:48] Is the US actually in control of its own foreign policy?[02:38:47] Why Iran won't break and what the energy war is really about[02:55:23] What war always costs the people who didn't start itResources mentioned:Monkeypox Mania Summit | Websilte The Highwire with Del Bigtree episode on STEEP TERRAIN | Website The Perimeter | DocumentFind more from Patrick:Patrick Henningsen | XSupport our independent media platform - Donate or Subscribe at 21st Century Wire.Find more from Alec:Alec Zeck | InstagramAlec Zeck | XThe Way Forward | InstagramDonate to The Way Forward here.The Way Forward is Sponsored By:PACHA Sourdough: The wheat-free, sprouted buckwheat bread that actually digests well. Made with just two ingredients: organic sprouted buckwheat and sea salt. No gums, oils, or fillers. Shop now and use code THEWAYFORWARD for 10% off. New Biology Clinic: Redefine Health from the Ground UpExperience tailored terrain-based health services with consults, livestreams, movement classes, and more. Use code THEWAYFORWARD (case sensitive) for $50 off activation.The Way Forward members get the $150 fee waivedWant to grow your podcast but not sure what's actually working? Podigy helps me produce The Way Forward. Take their free assessment to get clear on your next move—and a chance to win a call with their founder.