All Episodes

S8 Ep1303: TABLE OF CONTENTS, THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-17-2026. Bill Roggio reflects on the five-year anniversary of the 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal, highlighting the accuracy of the maps he built that predicted the Taliban's takeover.

S8 Ep1302: Jeremy Zakis reports on the looming weather crisis in Australia, where meteorologists predict a "super El Niño" combined with a positive Indian Ocean Dipole. This rare combination is expected to cause extreme drought and record-breaking temperatures in Ne

S8 Ep1301: Richard Epstein critiques Senator Bernie Sanders' characterization of Israeli politicians as "extremists," viewing it as a provocative attempt to shift American Democratic policy. Epstein argues that a two-state solution is fundamentally unstable because

S8 Ep1300: Samuel Ben-Ur discusses the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, focusing on Jared Kushner's meeting with Hamas leadership to discuss a 15-point peace plan. Ben-Ur explains that Israel rejected the plan because it lacked a verifiable mechanism for Hamas's

S8 Ep1299: Alan Tonelson exposes a massive Chinese tariff evasion scheme, where goods are rerouted through countries like Cambodia and Mexico to bypass U.S. duties. This "scam" is estimated to cost the U.S. up to $26 billion in annual revenue. While the White House

S8 Ep1298: Kamran Bokhari examines the evolution of the Iranian regime, arguing that the Supreme Leader has become a figurehead for the IRGC and security establishment. He suggests that the war has accelerated a process of internal fragmentation, though the elite re

S8 Ep1297: David Daoud details the escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, noting that Hezbollah's refusal to disarm has prompted the IDF to prepare for a major operation. Israel is currently conducting "clearing operations" to destroy Hezbollah

S8 Ep1297: John Hardie reports on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, specifically Russia's rejection of a Black Sea ceasefire in favor of striking Ukrainian food supplies. He notes that while Russia maintains a maritime blockade advantage, Ukraine is retaliating with high

S8 Ep1296: Edmund Fitton-Brown argues that the U.S. is "running out of ideas" regarding economic pressure on Iran, labeling a land blockade as far-fetched due to uncooperative neighbors. He suggests that secondary sanctions on Chinese "teapot" refineries are a more

S8 Ep1295: Malcolm Hoenlein provides an overview of the October 27th Israeli election, explaining the complex "list" voting system and Netanyahu's challenges. He discusses the "Board of Peace" negotiations, stressing that the central hurdle remains Hamas's refusal t

S8 Ep1295: Janatyn Sayeh explores the "secret plan" of Iranian hardliners to escalate regional conflict and raise costs for the United States. He notes that while the Iranian economy is an existential vulnerability, the regime is willing to ride out sanctions to mai

S8 Ep1294: Bridget Toomey analyzes the reawakening of the Yemeni Civil War, noting that the Houthis are launching fresh offensives to seize the Red Sea coast and the Bab el-Mandeb choke point. While the Houthis claim to target Saudi interests, their primary focus ha

S8 Ep1293: Bill Roggio reflects on the five-year anniversary of the 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal, highlighting the accuracy of the maps he built that predicted the Taliban's takeover. He describes the withdrawal as disorganized, noting there was zero plan for the Afg

S8 Ep1292: Padraic Scanlan — Multi-Part, Part Two: Padraic Scanlan examines the British government's response to the Great Famine, highlighting how ideological commitments to free trade and to civilizing the poor exacerbated the tragedy. Prime Minister Robert Peel i

S8 Ep1291: Padraic Scanlan — Multi-Part, Part One: Padraic Scanlan explores the deep-seated historical and economic causes of the Great Irish Famine, beginning with the haunting folk memory of Queen Victoria's visit to Skibbereen, a village that became an icon of so

S8 Ep1291: Gary Rivlin — Multi-Part, Part Two: Gary Rivlin turns to the clash of ideologies and corporate power plays defining the current AI era. Rivlin details the divide between accelerationists, who believe AI progress should not be hindered by regulation, and d

S8 Ep1290: Gary Rivlin — Multi-Part, Part One: Gary Rivlin, author of AI Valley: Microsoft, Google, and the Trillion-Dollar Race to Cash In on Artificial Intelligence, explores the origins and personalities driving the modern artificial intelligence revolution. Rivl

S8 Ep1289: Londinium Chronicles — Multi-Part, Part Three: Gaius (John Batchelor) and Germanicus (Michael Vlahos) close with the death of diplomacy as a geopolitical tool. Gaius provides a detailed historical account of the Japanese surrender in 1945, noting that eve

S8 Ep1288: Londinium Chronicles — Multi-Part, Part Two: Gaius (John Batchelor) and Germanicus (Michael Vlahos) turn to the ragged ends of wars and the long-term consequences of current strategic decisions. Germanicus argues that by handcrafting the war in Ukraine an

S8 Ep1287: Londinium Chronicles — Multi-Part, Part One: Gaius (John Batchelor) and Germanicus (Michael Vlahos) meet in the wine bar in Londinium, 92 AD, where they are overseeing its expansion during a rainy summer. They discuss a potential partnership with a Greek

S8 Ep1286: Jeremy Zakis: Jeremy Zakis details the melodrama and unexpected struggles of the Australian cricket team during their series against Bangladesh in Darwin. Despite playing on home soil, the Australians fell significantly behind, leading to visible frustrat

S8 Ep1285: Jeremy Zakis: Jeremy Zakis explains that Australia is entering a super El Niño cycle, exacerbated by a positive Indian Ocean Dipole that dries out the continent. He warns that recent winter rain has fueled undergrowth that will soon become tinder-dry wild

S8 Ep1285: Jeff Bliss: California is currently contending with an early start to the wildfire season, a period dubbed Dirty August by experts. Jeff Bliss highlights three major blazes: the Timber Fire, the Bug Fire, and the MP 18 Fire. The Timber Fire in Monterey Co

S8 Ep1284: **Keach Hagey:** Keach Hagey, author of *The Optimist: Sam Altman, OpenAI, and the Race to Invent the Future*, explores the rise of Sam Altman and the founding of OpenAI, which launched in 2015 as a nonprofit research lab aimed at developing artificial ge

S8 Ep1283: James Romm — Multi-Part, Part Two: Professor James Romm details the violent collapse of the Dionysian dynasty and its influence on Plato's writing. Following a falling out and exile, Dion launched an invasion to liberate Syracuse. However, his rule descen

S8 Ep1282: James Romm — Multi-Part, Part One: Professor James Romm, author of Plato and the Tyrant: The Fall of Greece's Greatest Dynasty and the Making of a Philosophic Masterpiece, discusses the rise of the Dionysian dynasty in fourth-century BCE Syracuse, then th

S8 Ep1281: Josiah Osgood — Multi-Part, Part Two: Professor Josiah Osgood continues with 58 BCE, when the rivals took separate paths; Cato went to Cyprus to model honest administration while Caesar sought military glory in Gaul. The death of Julia, Caesar's daughter

S8 Ep1281: Josiah Osgood — Multi-Part, Part One: Professor Josiah Osgood, author of Uncommon Wrath: How Caesar and Cato's Deadly Rivalry Destroyed the Roman Republic, begins in 64 BCE, when Cato and Caesar briefly cooperated in the murder courts to penalize those re

S8 Ep1280: Michael McFaul — Multi-Part, Part Two: Michael McFaul, a Stanford professor and former US Ambassador to Russia, continues his discussion of Autocrats Versus Democrats: China, Russia, America, and the New Global Disorder, shifting to modern Putinism and th

S8 Ep1279: Michael McFaul — Multi-Part, Part One: Michael McFaul, a Stanford professor and former US Ambassador to Russia, details his book Autocrats Versus Democrats: China, Russia, America, and the New Global Disorder. In Part One, McFaul examines historical turni

S8 Ep1278: Robert Cwiklik — Multi-Part, Part Two: Robert Cwiklik, author of Sheridan's Secret Mission: How the South Won the War After the Civil War, continues with General Philip Sheridan's response, specifically his Banditti telegram proposing military trials for

S8 Ep1278: Robert Cwiklik — Multi-Part, Part One: Robert Cwiklik, author of Sheridan's Secret Mission: How the South Won the War After the Civil War, explores how the Union's victory was undone by Southern resistance and Northern political retreat. Part One details

S8 Ep1277: TABLE OF CONTENTS THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW 8-14-2026. Jeff Bliss discusses the severe threats posed by a potential "super El Niño," which could lead to massive coastal erosion, mudslides, and heavy rains in Los Angeles, similar to the damage seen in previ

S8 Ep1276: Angela DiFulvio explains a theoretical method for detecting nuclear weapons in low Earth orbit to prevent catastrophes like the 1962 Starfish Prime experiment, which destroyed a third of existing satellites. She describes an "inspector" satellite designed

S8 Ep1275: Henry Sokolski examines the "Golden Dome," a proposed $185 billion space-based missile defense project that mirrors the Cold War-era SDI. He warns that the program's lack of transparency is "suicidal" for its funding, as Congress remains in the dark about

S8 Ep1274: Alex Wright, author of Empire of Ink: The Printers, Rogues, and Radicals Who Invented the American Newspaper, Part One: Wright recounts the history of American newspapers, focusing on the Civil War's impact on journalism. He highlights George Smalley's gr

S8 Ep1273: Bob Zimmerman details the robotic mission by startup Catalyst to rescue NASA's Swift Space Telescope, utilizing innovative software to maneuver a servicing craft despite thruster failures. He highlights SpaceX's massive Starship production line in Boca Ch

S8 Ep1272: Lorenzo Fiori describes a "disaster" situation in Europe caused by severe drought and record heat, with water restrictions implemented in Swiss towns and critically low levels in northern Italy's Po River. The drought has turned the normally green Alps br

S8 Ep1271: Jim McTague provides a report on the "mixed" economy of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, observing that retail activity is picking up due to back-to-school shopping despite inflationary pressures. He notes that discount giants like Costco are packed as sho

S8 Ep1270: Gene Marks shares insights from White House advisor Kevin Hassett regarding the validity of government economic data, with Hassett favoring durable goods orders and unemployment claims over revised surveys. Marks reports a generally positive outlook for s

S8 Ep1269: Jeff Bliss discusses the severe threats posed by a potential "super El Niño," which could lead to massive coastal erosion, mudslides, and heavy rains in Los Angeles, similar to the damage seen in previous severe weather years. He also reports on active wi

S8 Ep1268: TABLE OF CONTENTS THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-13-2026. Anatol Lieven: The discussion highlights a dystopian shift in modern naval combat, where the Russian ghost fleet employs Mad Max tactics, using netting and spikes, to defend against Ukrainian drone at

S8 Ep1267: Evan Ellis, US Army War College and a State Department voice: Professor Evan Ellis provides a comprehensive update on Latin American stability, starting with Chile's President Kast, who is tackling immigration and the rise of gangs such as Tren de Aragua

S8 Ep1266: Alex Wright — Multi-Part, Part One: Alex Wright, author of Empire of Ink: The Printers and Radicals Who Invented the American Newspaper, details the uniquely American invention of the newspaper, beginning with Mary Katherine Goddard's printing of the Decl

S8 Ep1265: Graham McAleer: Pope Leo has issued a bold encyclical addressing the ethical and social threats posed by artificial intelligence. Graham McAleer explains that the Pope uses the biblical image of Nimrod and the Tower of Babel to characterize AI as a manife

S8 Ep1264: Craig Unger: Craig Unger explores a sidetracked FBI counterintelligence investigation into Donald Trump's decades-long ties to Russian interests. Unlike criminal inquiries, counterintelligence investigations focus on national security breaches and the lau

S8 Ep1263: Veronique de Rugy: Veronique de Rugy critiques the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, commonly known as the Jones Act, which requires cargo moved between American ports to be transported on ships that are US-built, US-owned, and US-crewed. Originally intended t

S8 Ep1262: Mary Anastasia O'Grady, Wall Street Journal editorial board: Venezuela is grappling with the aftermath of severe earthquakes while navigating a complex political transition under the Trump administration's influence. Despite increased oil production, majo

S8 Ep1261: Anatol Lieven: The discussion highlights a dystopian shift in modern naval combat, where the Russian ghost fleet employs Mad Max tactics, using netting and spikes, to defend against Ukrainian drone attacks. Anatol Lieven describes a global spread of drone

S8 Ep1260: TABLE OF CONTENTS, THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-12-2026 Michael Bernstam: Michael Bernstam discusses a critical shortage of refined products such as diesel and gasoline, noting that global supply has dropped by 8.3 million barrels per day.

S8 Ep1260: Bob Zimmerman: Bob Zimmerman discusses the progress of commercial space ventures, highlighting Rocket Lab's new contract for its reusable Neutron rocket. He explains how companies such as SpaceX are developing recoverable capsules for in-space manufacturi

S8 Ep1259: Simon Constable: Simon Constable reports on rising commodity prices, with Brent crude reaching $89 per barrel and European gas prices surging 18 percent. He discusses the recent change in UK government, where new Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to

S8 Ep1258: Admiral Mark Montgomery: Admiral Mark Montgomery details the growing cyber and hybrid warfare cooperation within the axis of aggressors: China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. This cooperation often involves criminal actors sharing attack techniques and te

S8 Ep1257: Cliff May: Cliff May argues that Islamism is not being studied with the rigor that communism once received during the Cold War. He observes that many university Middle East studies departments, funded by foreign interests such as Qatar, have become Islami

S8 Ep1257: Peter Huessy: Peter Huessy examines the fragile state of nuclear deterrence as Russia conducts drills for tactical nuclear weapons. He warns that the US is behind the eight ball regarding theater nuclear options, possessing only gravity bombs while Russia

S8 Ep1256: Charles Burton: Charles Burton provides insight into the annual Beidaihe retreat, where Chinese leaders meet secretly to decide the party's direction. This year's focus is on a failing domestic economy, including a collapsed housing market and crushing lo

S8 Ep1255: Mark Clifford: Mark Clifford discusses the ongoing detention of British citizen and entrepreneur Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong. While China recently released a Protestant pastor, Xi Jinping reportedly remains determined that Lai, a fervent Catholic and advocate

S8 Ep1254: Captain James Fanell: Captain James Fanell reports on China's escalating campaign to annex international waters east of Taiwan. For the first time, Chinese vessels are interrogating ships on the high seas, an outrageous violation of maritime norms. This a

S8 Ep1253: Michael Lucchese: Michael Lucchese explores the history and modern return of isolationism within American politics, particularly the Republican Party. He characterizes isolationism as a short-sighted avoidance of global affairs that often coincides with p

S8 Ep1252: Michael Bernstam: Michael Bernstam discusses a critical shortage of refined products such as diesel and gasoline, noting that global supply has dropped by 8.3 million barrels per day. While crude oil is available, refining capacity in the US and Europe ha

S8 Ep1251: TABLE OF CONTENTS, JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-11-2-26 Mary Kissel discusses North Korea's transformation into a critical military supplier for Russia's war in Ukraine, providing ballistic missiles and thousands of combat troops.

S8 Ep1250: Thaddeus McCotter analyzes the Michigan Senate race between Mike Rogers and Abdul El-Sayed, a Rhodes Scholar supported by the far-left DSA. El-Sayed's primary victory over the Democratic establishment highlights the growing influence of "woke" ideology in

S8 Ep1249: Samuel Ben-Ur and Bill Roggio discuss the "Board of Peace" plan for post-war Gaza, which proposes a civilian Palestinian government overseen by international forces. A significant impasse remains: Israel refuses to withdraw until Hamas is disarmed, whileR

S8 Ep1248: V

S8 Ep1247: Veronique de Rugy critiques the Trump administration's shift toward "socialism on the right," evidenced by the government taking ownership stakes in private companies like Intel. Often justified by national security, these interventions mirror European st

S8 Ep1247: Gregory Copley evaluates the new "Mecca Joint Defense Agreement" between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, which aims to counter Iranian influence despite mutual distrust among the members. The discussion also explores the massive transformation of glob

S8 Ep1246: Joseph Sternberg observes that the current election cycle lacks substantial policy agendas, as both major parties focus on political theater rather than governing. Congress has increasingly outsourced its legislative authority to the executive branch, lea

S8 Ep1246: Liz Peek analyzes the resilience of the U.S. economy, where strong consumer spending and business optimism persist despite high oil prices and stagnant job growth. While the Fed weighs interest rate hikes to curb inflation, a "wealth effect" from a robust

S8 Ep1245: Jonathan Schanzer discusses the opaque leadership within Iran, noting the Supreme Leader's prolonged absence and the IRGC's tightening grip on power. The regime appears sclerotic, relying on aging loyalists while forcing the U.S. to remain engaged in regi

S8 Ep1245: Mary Kissel examines North Korea's emergence as a critical military supplier for Russia, providing ballistic missiles and combat troops to aid Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine. This partnership integrates Pyongyang into a broader "axis of tyranny" alongsid

S8 Ep1244: TABLE OF CONTENTS JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-10-2026. John Hardie reports North Korea is deploying a specialized unit equipped with KN-23 and KN-24 short-range ballistic missiles to assist Russia's war efforts.

S8 Ep1243: Bill Gertz reports a Pentagon official's attendance at a People's Liberation Army (PLA) celebration has sparked fears of a "defeatist" accommodation policy toward Beijing. Critics argue that seeking "respectful relations" with a Leninist regime is interpr

S8 Ep1242: Scott Harold explains the U.S. and Japan are adopting a "walking quietly and carrying a big stick" approach to deter a Chinese attack on Taiwan. This strategy involves creating a "hellscape" of thousands of drones and missiles to make an amphibious assaul

S8 Ep1242: Conrad Black reports Prime Minister Mark Carney is under pressure to revitalize Canada's economy 16 months after his election. Despite being a "treasure house" of resources, Canada suffers from lengthy project delays caused by redundant provincial regulat

S8 Ep1241: Janatyn Sayeh analyzes the appointment of Mohsen Rezaei, an original IRGC veteran, to the Supreme National Security Council, signaling a return to hardline, ideologically driven decision-making in Tehran. Rezaei, linked to past international terrorism, re

S8 Ep1240: Edmund Fitton-Brown describes the Houthis' methodical campaign, likely coordinated with Iran, to intimidate Saudi Arabia and prevent its entry into the Abraham Accords. Recent strikes on Mocha and Jazan highlight a resurgence of the 12-year-old Yemeni civ

S8 Ep1239: Bridget Toomey reports the Houthis have escalated their regional campaign by striking Saudi Arabia's Jazan refinery, demonstrating their ability to disrupt global energy markets despite recent defense pacts. Within Yemen, the Houthis are intensifying at

S8 Ep1238: Mariam Wahba reports the Sudanese civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), now entering its fourth year, has left over 400,000 dead. The conflict has evolved into a complex proxy war; the UAE supports the RSF t

S8 Ep1237: David Daoud explains Iran is currently leveraging negotiations with the U.S. to secure a ceasefire that protects Hezbollah from further Israeli military pressure while allowing the group to rebuild. Critics argue that U.S. security assistance to the Leban

S8 Ep1236: Malcolm Hoenlein discusses a new mutual defense pact between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan that has emerged to counter Iranian influence and the Muslim Brotherhood. Meanwhile, in Gaza, empirical data from UNICEF and the WHO challenges international n

S8 Ep1235: Ernesto Araújo and Alejandro Peña Esclusa report Venezuelan negotiators have established a timeline for a political transition, aiming to restore rights and select new electoral authorities by December. However, there are significant concerns regarding th

S8 Ep1234: John Hardie reports North Korea is deploying a specialized unit equipped with KN-23 and KN-24 short-range ballistic missiles to assist Russia's war efforts. This shipment, potentially totaling 120 missiles, significantly bolsters Russia's magazine depth a

S8 Ep1233: Christopher Mason, a geneticist and NASA investigator and author of The Next 500 Years: Engineering Life to Reach New Worlds, outlines a 500-year plan to enable human survival beyond Earth. Central to his vision is the deontogenic ethical framework, which

S8 Ep1232: Gaius and Germanicus: Reflecting on Roman sophistication, the hosts contrast their world's vigiles and urban planning with the squalor of later centuries. They conclude that modern incompetence is a terminal bane, as the current administration fails to en

S8 Ep1231: Gaius and Germanicus: The debate shifts to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a financial bane that has already cost nearly a billion barrels in oil losses. Iran's punitive mood and demand for reparations reflect a shift where the US can no longer dict

S8 Ep1230: Gaius and Germanicus: In their expanding Londinium wine bar, the hosts discuss the unraveling of Ukraine. Germanicus describes a strategic bane where Russia utilizes siege tactics to destroy the Ukrainian economy, targeting water treatment plants and fuel

S8 Ep1229: Craig Symonds, Part Two: This phase of the war focuses on the Central Pacific campaign, beginning with the brutal amphibious landing at Tarawa in 1943, where the Marines had to "invent" amphibious operations under fire. Nimitz continued to manage complex

S8 Ep1228: Craig Symonds, author of Nimitz at War: Command Leadership from Pearl Harbor to Tokyo Bay, Part One: Following the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor, Admiral Chester Nimitz assumed command of the Pacific Fleet with a mission to stabilize a wrecked comman

S8 Ep1227: Serhii Plokhy, Part Two: The second part focuses on the 2022 full-scale invasion, defined by Putin's catastrophic miscalculation that his troops would be welcomed as liberators. Instead, Ukraine demonstrated remarkable resilience under President Zelenskyy

S8 Ep1226: Stephen Moss, Part Two: Moss explores the Raven, a bird of deep mythology and intelligence, appearing in Norse legends as Odin's messengers and in modern culture like Game of Thrones. Though often seen as harbingers of doom in works by Shakespeare and Poe

S8 Ep1225: Stephen Moss, author of Ten Birds That Changed the World, Part One: Moss discusses how birds shaped human history, starting with the Wild Turkey, which nearly became America's national bird and was essential to pilgrim survival. The naming of the Turkey s

S8 Ep1224: H.W. Brands, Part Two: In 1941, the debate intensifies over the Lend-Lease Act, which Lindbergh argues supports British imperialism rather than democracy. Lindbergh testifies before Congress, asserting that air power makes the Western Hemisphere more defe

S8 Ep1223: H.W. Brands, author of America First: Roosevelt vs. Lindbergh in the Shadow of War, Part One: In April 1939, world-famous aviator Charles Lindbergh returns to the United States as global tensions escalate. Lindbergh, who moved to Europe following the "tri

S8 Ep1222: Anne Stevenson-Yang, author of Wild Ride: A Short History of the Opening and Closing of the Chinese Economy, provides an account of China's economic arc over five decades. The narrative begins in the mid-1980s, transitioning from a Maoist culture characte

S8 Ep1216: William Taubman, Part Two: Taubman examines McNamara's "double life" during the Vietnam War under Lyndon Johnson. While acting as the public architect of escalation, including his role in securing the 1964 Gulf of Tonkin Resolution through omitted facts,

S8 Ep1215: William Taubman, author of McNamara at War: A New History, Part One: Taubman discusses Robert McNamara's early career and rise to power, beginning with his role as a World War II statistician on Guam. McNamara advised General Curtis LeMay on low-altitudee

S8 Ep1222: Jeremy Zakis, Part Two: Zakis joins John Batchelor to explore accounts of animal mischief and human deception. Two beagle puppies, Jada and Scooter, consumed 2.4 pounds of gummy snakes after breaking into a pantry in Queensland; while Scooter was the prim

S8 Ep1221: Jeremy Zakis, Part One: Zakis discusses the looming threat of a Super El Niño, characterized by sea surface temperatures in the Eastern Pacific rising 2.5°C above normal, resulting in extreme atmospheric turmoil and more severe weather patterns than a sta

S8 Ep1221: **Mary Roach**, author of *Replaceable You*, explores the past, present, and future of reconstructing or replacing human anatomy. Roach details the treatment of severe third-degree burns using allografts from cadavers or unconventional biological dressing

S8 Ep1221: Sebastian Smee, Part Two: The narrative follows the 1871 Paris Commune and "Bloody Week," where civil war left the city in ruins. Amidst this trauma, Berthe Morisot resolved to become a professional artist, developing a radical style focused on domesticit

S8 Ep1221: Sebastian Smee, author of Paris in Ruins: Love, War, and the Birth of Impressionism, Part One: In 1874, artists staged a revolutionary independent exhibition in Paris, marking the birth of Impressionism. Smee explores how painters like Monet and Morisot r

S8 Ep1220: SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-7-2026. Kevin Frazier addresses the growing misinformation surrounding data centers, particularly in rural America where they are often viewed as threats to water and power.

S8 Ep1219: Kevin Frazier addresses the growing misinformation surrounding data centers, particularly in rural America where they are often viewed as threats to water and power. He argues that these facilities provide massive tax base contributions and high-paying co

S8 Ep1218: Henry Sokolski discusses the stalled nuclear cooperative agreement between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, noting that the lack of enrichment restrictions has left the deal in limbo. He explains that a new condominium between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan

S8 Ep1218: Harry Sidebottom explores the world of Roman gladiators, describing the Colosseum as a building that reinforced social hierarchy through strictly assigned seating. The day's events began with a stylized procession representing Roman dominance over nature

S8 Ep1217: Bob Zimmerman highlights several developments in space, starting with the startup Catalyst's daring mission to rescue the decaying Swift space telescope. Despite thruster failures, engineers are attempting to use the remaining hardware to move the telesco

S8 Ep1217: Lorenzo Fiori guides listeners through the Piedmont region, focusing on Vercelli and Vigevano, areas famous for rice production but currently suffering from a severe drought. He reports that a massive "heat dome" sitting over Europe has pushed temperature

S8 Ep1216: Jim McTague analyzes the July jobs report, which unexpectedly showed a loss of 23,000 jobs, signaling a cutback in spending by those "with little." He describes a "K-shaped economy" where the wealthy continue to spend while others struggle with high gas p

S8 Ep1216: Richard Epstein critiques the contempt of Congress referral against Dr. Anthony Fauci, arguing Fauci made "egregious mistakes" regarding pandemic regulations like masking and social distancing. Epstein contends Fauci was a "lousy scientist" who suppressed

S8 Ep1215: Jeff Bliss begins with the Super El Niño building in the Pacific, reaching record-high temperatures that promise severe drought and wildfires for California, a state currently unprepared for these atmospheric changes. In Seattle, Mayor Wilson recently fir

S8 Ep1214: **Anatol Lieven** reports the conflict in **Ukraine** has devolved into a war of infrastructure, with Ukraine targeting **Russian** retail warehouses while **Russia** destroys Ukrainian road transport and blocks the port of **Odesa**. Lieven expresses skR

S8 Ep1213: Mary Anastasia O'Grady reports Keiko Fujimori has secured the Peruvian presidency by a narrow margin, inheriting a nation plagued by organized crime and Chinese influence. Fujimori faces an immediate crisis with the expected arrival of El Niño in Septembe

S8 Ep1212: Jack Burnham explains the FCC's efforts to prohibit military-grade, foreign-produced drones, specifically targeting Chinese firms like DJI due to security concerns. These "dual-use" systems are defined by their ability to carry heavy loads and utilize adv

S8 Ep1211: Peter Berkowitz analyzes the work of Professor Patrick Deneen, who argues that liberal democracy is a "curse" that has atomized American society. Deneen presents contradictory accounts of whether liberalism was a founding principle or a 20th-century impos

S8 Ep1210: Harry Sidebottom describes the reality of Roman gladiators, noting they were often heavy-set due to a carbohydrate-rich diet designed to provide protective fat. These fighters were glamorous figures who enacted Roman virtues of courage and physical streng

S8 Ep1209: Bradley Bowman warns of the unprecedented military cooperation between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, documented in 616 instances of security collaboration. Russia has transferred advanced technology, such as Su-35 fighters and submarine quieting t

S8 Ep1208: Evan Ellis explores the landscape of Uruguay, a stable country navigating the trade interests of its neighbors, Brazil and Argentina. The discussion shifts to Colombia's newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella, whose inauguration in a high-secur

S8 Ep1207: Kevin Hoy discusses the detection of a Jupiter-mass object orbiting the brown dwarf CD-35 2722b, which may represent the first confirmed exosatellite or exomoon. Using the radial velocity method, researchers identified a "wobble" in the spectrum of the br

S8 Ep1206: Anatol Lieven reports the conflict in Ukraine has devolved into a war of infrastructure, with Ukraine targeting Russian retail warehouses while Russia destroys Ukrainian road transport and blocks the port of Odesa. Lieven expresses skepticism regarding Ru

S8 Ep1204: SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-5-2026. Michael Bernstam discusses how August is historically a "month of curses" for Russia, citing the 1991 coup and the 1914 start of WWI. Currently, Russia is facing a severe fiscal and production crisis driven by

S8 Ep1205: Colonel Grant Newsham challenges the assumption of inevitable Chinese dominance, labeling it a "fake it till you make it" strategy intended to intimidate foreigners. He points out that China's property market is a "crater" and its currency is not freely c

S8 Ep1204: Mary Kissel analyzes the "stuck" state of global diplomacy, arguing that China and Russia are actively judging the strength of U.S. deterrence in the Strait of Hormuz and Ukraine. She disputes the idea that China is a neutral bystander, noting that Beijin

S8 Ep1203: Simon Constable reports on the extreme weather and energy pressures facing Europe, with Brent crude prices up 12% and natural gas up 22% in a single month. He details a "semi-invasion" of Spain, where 60,000 migrants recently attempted to cross from Moroc

S8 Ep1202: Humberto Briceño describes Venezuela as a state captured by a transnational alliance of criminal organizations, including colectivos (paramilitaries) and narco-traffickers. He criticizes the decision to leave "gangsters" like Delcy Rodríguez in power whil

S8 Ep1201: Peter Huessy provides a historical overview of nuclear arms control, starting with the 1972 SALT I agreement, which actually codified a buildup of weapons while banning missile defenses. He describes the "window of vulnerability" in the 1980s when Soviet

S8 Ep1200: Steve Yates and Gordon Chang discuss the proposed ban on Chinese components in U.S. data centers, warning that these devices allow for foreign sabotage of critical infrastructure. Yates notes that the CCP often fuels "astroturf" protests in rural America

S8 Ep1199: Piero Tozzi and Gordon Chang explore the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) "long arm" influence in the U.S., specifically regarding a Purdue University professor pressured to cancel a speech at a Catholic conference. Tozzi explains that the CCP uses "patrio

S8 Ep1199: James Holmes and Gordon Chang address the critical lack of frigates in the U.S. Navy, which Holmes describes as essential low-cost platforms for monitoring adversaries. The current fleet is "top-heavy," relying on Arleigh Burke-class destroyers that are o

S8 Ep1198: Bob Zimmerman highlights the rapid evolution of the commercial space industry, comparing it to the early 20th-century auto boom. A major milestone includes SpaceX successfully retrieving a Starship stage from the Indian Ocean to analyze its thermal protec

S8 Ep1197: Michael Bernstam discusses how August is historically a "month of curses" for Russia, citing the 1991 coup and the 1914 start of WWI. Currently, Russia is facing a severe fiscal and production crisis driven by Ukrainian drone strikes that have crippled 25

S8 Ep1196: SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW. 8-4-2026. Colonel Jeff McCausland, United States Army (Retired), discusses the critical depletion of United States missile stockpiles, particularly Patriot and THAAD systems, due to the intensifying war with Iran.

S8 Ep1195: Conrad Black, distinguished biographer and National Post columnist, discusses the "aberrant" trade tensions between the US and Canada following the imposition of tariffs based on allegations of forced labor in Chinese imports. Black argues these tariff

S8 Ep1195: Andrea Stricker, Deputy Director at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, outlines the proliferation risks associated with a proposed US-Saudi nuclear cooperation agreement. She expresses concern over uranium enrichment on Saudi soil, which could ena

S8 Ep1195: Bill Roggio and Bridget Toomey of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies discuss the Houthis' re-entry into the regional war by declaring a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea. Roggio criticizes the Trump administration's lack of a fo

S8 Ep1195: Gregory Copley, Publisher of Defense & Foreign Affairs, analyzes global efforts to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, noting that Russia and China are seeking alternative trade corridors to undermine Washington's strategic influence. He suggests China is using

S8 Ep1195: Jonathan Schanzer, Executive Director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, discusses the alarming shortage of US defensive munitions needed to intercept Iranian threats. He notes that Iran, coached by Russia and China, is exploiting this crisis t

S8 Ep1195: Joseph Sternberg, Editorial Board Member of the Wall Street Journal, examines the release of Dr. Anthony Fauci's pandemic-era diaries, which reveal a dichotomy between his private doubts and public pronouncements regarding COVID-19's origins. Sternberg su

S8 Ep1195: Judy Dempsey, Senior Scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, describes a Europe struggling with record heat, wildfires, and critically low river levels that are hampering nuclear power and agriculture. She argues these patterns reflect

S8 Ep1195: Colonel Jeff McCausland, United States Army (Retired), discusses the critical depletion of United States missile stockpiles, particularly Patriot and THAAD systems, due to the intensifying war with Iran. He notes that these shortages might force a transit

S8 Ep1194: SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW 8-3-2026 1705 Husain Haqqani: Iran is openly boasting that it uses diplomatic pauses to reconstitute its military arsenal for future attacks on energy infrastructure. Ambassador Haqqani critiques the current US approach as a

S8 Ep1193: John Hardie: President Zelenskyy has proposed a plan to use Elon Musk's Starlink network to bypass the need for scarce Patriot interceptors, enabling deep strikes against Russian missile launchers. Starlink provides the low latency required for controllin

S8 Ep1193: Samuel Ben-Ur: President Trump has announced a tentative Hamas deal involving a phased disarmament and the transition of governance to a National Committee. However, the plan faces significant hurdles, as Israel demands the complete destruction of terror

S8 Ep1193: Janatan Sayeh: The Iranian regime has dramatically escalated its internal reign of terror, with executions increasing by over 100 percent in some regions. Revolutionary courts, led by brutal judges such as Mohammad Reza Tavakoli, use public hangings and f

S8 Ep1193: Edmund Fitton-Brown: The Houthis have launched a blockade against Saudi shipping in the Red Sea, targeting energy routes critical to global markets. In response, Saudi Arabia has formed a fourteen-nation defense coalition to protect the Bab el-Mandeb, not

S8 Ep1193: David Daoud: A recent drone attack on an IDF vehicle near the Ali Taher Ridge highlights the fragility of the current ceasefire in Lebanon. The IDF maintains control over the ridge's surface, yet Hezbollah continues to operate within a vast underground tu

S8 Ep1193: Andrew Collier and Gordon Chang: China's banking system faces a time bomb with an estimated $7.7 trillion in unreported bad loans, largely due to government-backed entities rolling over debt to mask insolvency. The property market remains a crater, and wh

S8 Ep1191: General Blaine Holt and Gordon Chang: Concerns are rising regarding the flow of Chinese and Russian aid to Iran, which includes potential shipments of anti-aircraft missiles. While some interpret President Trump's reserved stance as weakness, General Holt

S8 Ep1191: Malcolm Hoenlein: Recent reports reveal the existence of Iranian-backed assassination cells such as the Foxtrot group, which recruits European criminals to target Jewish and Israeli figures. In the Levant, the IDF continues to discover unprecedented tunne

S8 Ep1192: Ernesto Araújo and Alejandro Peña Esclusa: The inauguration of Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella marks a pivotal shift toward the "Shield of the Americas" initiative to combat drug trafficking and organized crime. Unlike his predecessor, Gustav

S8 Ep1191: Husain Haqqani: Iran is openly boasting that it uses diplomatic pauses to reconstitute its military arsenal for future attacks on energy infrastructure. Ambassador Haqqani critiques the current US approach as a haphazard war lacking a clear end-state or g

S8 Ep1190: Gaius and Germanicus: Gaius opens by detailing the "emperor's" use of artificial intelligence to project heroic imagery—such as appearing as George Washington or a revolutionary leader—despite polling lower than Richard Nixon during his resignation. Germa

S8 Ep1190: Gaius and Germanicus: Gaius invokes the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, highlighting how the Kennedy brothers used caution and trusted advisors to avoid nuclear war. He asks how a modern crisis can be resolved when the "emperor's" word is no longer trusted. Ge

S8 Ep1190: In The Londinium Chronicles, Gaius (John Batchelor) and Germanicus (Michael Vlahos) explore the intersections of Roman history and modern geopolitics. Gaius and Germanicus: Gaius opens by detailing the "emperor's" use of artificial intelligence to project

S8 Ep1189: Isaac Stone Fish, author of America Second: How America's Elites Are Making China Stronger, investigates how American political, corporate, and cultural elites have become deeply entangled with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) since the 1970s. He identif

S8 Ep1189: Gaia Vince, author of Nomad Century: How Climate Migration Will Reshape Our World, presents a stark look at the inevitable mass migration caused by a changing climate, which she argues will force billions to move from the tropics to the habitable north th

S8 Ep1189: David Grantham, author of Consequences: An Intelligence Officer's War, provides a memoir of his time as an Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI) agent, detailing the high-stakes world of counter-intelligence during the Global War on Terror. His

S8 Ep1189: Charles Gasparino, author of Go Woke, Go Broke: The Inside Story of the Radicalization of Corporate America, explores the radicalization of corporate America by tracing the rise of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and DEI (Diversity, Equity, an

S8 Ep1189: John Tamny, author of The Money Confusion: How a Literacy About Currencies and Inflation Sets the Stage for the Crypto Revolution, provides an unconventional analysis of money, arguing that its only purpose is to circulate consumable goods as a product of

S8 Ep1189: Jonathan D.T. Ward, author of The Decisive Decade: American Grand Strategy for Triumph Over China, defines the 2020s as a "decisive decade" during which the United States must execute a new grand strategy to defeat the Russia-China axis. He characterizes

S8 Ep1189: Mark Clifford, author of Today Hong Kong, Tomorrow the World: What China's Crackdown Reveals About Its Plans to End Freedom Everywhere, documents the collapse of freedom in Hong Kong, describing the CCP's strategy as an "anaconda in the chandelier" that e

1192: **David Davenport** provides a historical overview of how the concept of equality of opportunity has evolved from the American founding to the modern era. The discussion explains that while the Founders initially focused on dismantling European systems of

1191: In this interview, author **Stephen Harrigan** discusses his historical novel, *The Leopard is Loose*, which centers on a real-life animal escape in **1950s Oklahoma City**. The narrative follows young **Grady McCarty** and his family as they navigate the

1190: **Peter Stansky**, Professor of History, Emeritus at **Stanford University** and author of *The Socialist Patriot: George Orwell and War*, explores the life and political evolution of **George Orwell** (born **Eric Blair**). Born in **India** in 1903 to a

1189: **Beppe Severgnini**, author of *Italian Lessons: 50 Things We Know About Life Now*, reflects on **Italy**'s experience as the first Western nation struck by the COVID-19 pandemic. Centered in his hometown of **Crema**, the narrative begins with a symboli

S8 Ep1188: Jim Robbins, author of The Man Who Planted Trees: A Story of Lost Groves, the Science of Trees, and a Plan to Save the Planet, discusses the life's work of David Milarch, a man who, following a transformative near-death experience, embarked on a mission t

S8 Ep1187: Mark Piesing, author of N-4 Down: The Hunt for the Arctic Airship Italia, recounts a secret meeting in Norway in July 1925 that brought together legendary explorer Roald Amundsen and Italian engineer Umberto Nobile to plan the first airship flight over th

S8 Ep1186: Terry Anderson, editor of Adapt and Be Adept: Market Responses to Climate Change, presents a collection of economic and social essays arguing that market-based adaptation is the most practical and effective response to a changing climate. Using Pascal

S8 Ep1186: Russell Shorto, author of Smalltime: A Story of My Family and the Mob, provides a historical and personal exploration of organized crime in the small industrial town of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, framing the American Mafia as a "mirror of American capitalis

S8 Ep1186: Holly Fretwell, author of Fix America's Forests: Reforms to Restore National Forests and Tackle the Wildfire Crisis, examines the escalating wildfire crisis in the United States, arguing that current forest conditions are the result of over a century of m

S8 Ep1185: SCHEDULE FOR THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 7-31-2026 1790 SOUTH HOLLAND Jeff Bliss reports a refrigeration fire in Boyle Heights has released a toxic stench and caused an explosion in local rat and insect populations.

S8 Ep1184: TREAMING MAKING JBS, JEFF BLISS, MICHAEL VLAHOS. 7-31-26 1900 LA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE This podcast transcript features a dialogue between John Batchelor and Jeff Bliss regarding a series of escalating global and domestic crises.

S8 Ep1183: Bob Zimmerman notes China continues the dangerous practice of dropping uncontrolled rocket debris on its citizens, forcing them to hide in tunnels. In the commercial sector, the startup Catalyst attempted a high-speed satellite rescue mission, demonstr

S8 Ep1183: Bob Zimmerman reports SpaceX's Starship successfully floated for a week after splashdown, providing invaluable data for rapid reusability. The company further cemented its market dominance with a $1.6 billion Space Force contract, while competitors remain

S8 Ep1183: Lorenzo Fiori reports a historic heatwave has pushed the Po River to record lows, devastating Italy's agricultural heartland and water supplies for power stations. The ecological crisis includes an invasion of blue crabs, which are destroying clam populat

S8 Ep1183: Veronique de Rugy warns new administration rules replace flexible status for foreign students with fixed four-year periods, targeting the "best educated people on Earth." De Rugy warns this policy dissuades future scientists and innovators from choosing t

S8 Ep1182: Gene Marks compares public protests against data centers to the 19th-century opposition to railroads. While critics worry about land and water usage, Marks argues these facilities are imperative infrastructure for the information age and the AI revolution

S8 Ep1182: Gene Marks compares public protests against data centers to the 19th-century opposition to railroads. While critics worry about land and water usage, Marks argues these facilities are imperative infrastructure for the information age and the AI revolution

S8 Ep1181: Henry Sokolski notes Senator John Kennedy has emerged as a dogged opponent of granting Saudi Arabia enrichment authority, labeling it a "bad idea." The agreement will automatically go into force within 90 legislative days unless Congress passes a veto-pro

S8 Ep1181: Henry Sokolski reports a proposed nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia is causing alarm due to potential uranium enrichment capabilities. Sokolski warns that nuclear fuel-making brings a nation dangerously close to developing a bomb. Saudi Arabia's refusal

S8 Ep1181: Peter Huessy warns the U.S. now faces a tri-polar nuclear threat from Russia and China, both of which are modernizing their arsenals "gangbusters." Meanwhile, U.S. systems haven't been updated in 40 years, leaving the deterrent "fragile." Allied nations i

S8 Ep1181: Peter Huessy explains the foundation of U.S. nuclear strategy is the triad, ensuring launch capabilities from land, sea, and air. Developed after the 1957 Sputnik launch, this framework replaced "massive retaliation" with "flexible response." Huessy expla

S8 Ep1181: Jim McTague reports that in Lancaster County, Republican representatives are introducing legislation that adds red tape and taxes to data centers, contradicting traditional pro-growth principles. While the Democratic-led Lancaster City has embraced a lucr

S8 Ep1181: Jim McTague takes a road trip through Owensboro, Kentucky, revealing a "K-shaped" economy where retail business is "dead" for blue-collar residents relying on federal aid. Conversely, Jeffersonville, Ohio, is experiencing a "gold rush" as Amazon and Honda

S8 Ep1181: Richard Epstein turns to Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, under fire for signing a document that allegedly exempts the President from IRS scrutiny regarding past and future taxes. Epstein characterizes this as a "scandalous" misuse of public trust an

S8 Ep1181: Richard Epstein examines New York City's proposed "pied-à-terre tax," which targets non-primary residences but threatens middle-class and working homeowners. Epstein argues the tax is unfairly structured, hitting condominiums at five times the rate of hou

S8 Ep1181: Jeff Bliss notes Governor Gavin Newsom is preparing for a 2028 presidential run, but past controversies are resurfacing. A Vanity Fair article by Ruby Rippey-Tourk, his former mistress and the wife of his then-campaign manager, accuses Newsom of being "ca

S8 Ep1181: Jeff Bliss reports a refrigeration fire in Boyle Heights has released a toxic stench and caused an explosion in local rat and insect populations. Residents remain displaced due to overpowering toxic aftereffects. Simultaneously, a massive heat dome and hu

S8 Ep1180: SCHEDULE FOR THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 7-30-2026 1800 CINCINNATI John Batchelor discusses with Simon Constable and Jim McTague the extreme weather conditions caused by a "super El Niño" year, leading to devastating wildfires in Canada and Europe.

S8 Ep1179: STREAMING MAKING JBS, SIMON CONSTABLE AND JIM MC TAGUE, 7-30--26 1903 ST. LAWRENCE BASIN This broadcast transcript explores the escalating Iran war and the controversial expansion of data centers in rural America.

S8 Ep1179: Arthur Herman credits Vannevar Bush's "The Endless Frontier" manifesto with persuading FDR to fund basic scientific research through universities, laying the groundwork for Silicon Valley. This federal support enabled discoveries in information theory and

S8 Ep1179: Arthur Herman presents Martin Luther King Jr. as a founder who refounded the American experiment by taking risks to fulfill the promise of equality. The segment explores the eternal conflict between the bold "founder mindset" and the cautious "manager ins

S8 Ep1179: Arthur Herman contrasts Woodrow Wilson's attempt to centrally manage industry during World War I, which resulted in logistical chaos and failure, with FDR's embrace of the private sector for World War II, appointing GM's Bill Knudsen to lead mobilization.

S8 Ep1179: Arthur Herman reframes the Gilded Age not as an era of greed, but as a period of unprecedented opportunity and connectivity driven by the railroad. James J. Hill's Great Northern Railway fostered regional prosperity and negotiated fairly with Native Ameri

S8 Ep1179: Arthur Herman characterizes Abraham Lincoln as a founder for his vision of an America without slavery and his willingness to risk the Union to fulfill the Declaration of Independence. His administration's legacy includes the Homestead Act and the Transcon

S8 Ep1179: Arthur Herman explains the American founders were heavily influenced by the Scottish Enlightenment, particularly the ideas of David Hume and Adam Smith regarding the pursuit of happiness. This subjective right was prioritized over property to potentially

S8 Ep1179: Arthur Herman recounts the historic 1896 meeting where Henry Ford pitched his internal combustion engine to a skeptical Thomas Edison. Edison's encouragement served as the catalyst for Ford's revolution in American transportation. This industrial transfor

S8 Ep1179: Salvatore Vitale and Calin Plunkett continue: to uncover the origins of the Milky Way's supermassive black hole, scientists propose building larger gravitational wave detectors scaled up by a factor of ten. These advanced observatories would allow researE

S8 Ep1179: Salvatore Vitale and Calin Plunkett of MIT explain hierarchical merging, a process where black holes merge repeatedly to create larger "monsters." By analyzing gravitational waves from 155 binary pairs, they discovered that 14% are second-generation black

S8 Ep1179: Anatol Lieven turns to Britain's new political era under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who is described as the Labour Party's "last chance" to address a discredited government. Burnham faces immense financial pressure, particularly regarding the costs of h

S8 Ep1179: Anatol Lieven examines how the Ukraine and Iran conflicts are merging into one global struggle following a Ukrainian drone strike on an Iranian vessel. This escalation threatens global energy supplies of refined oil products, as Russian refineries struggl

S8 Ep1179: John Hardie and Bill Roggio cover the significant leadership change in Ukraine as General Drapatyi replaces General Syrskyi as commander-in-chief. Drapatyi is seen as a representative of a new, western-style generation of officers who embrace technologica

S8 Ep1179: Cliff May argues for maximum pressure and coercive diplomacy to prevent the Islamic Republic of Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He advocates for a naval blockade, specifically targeting oil exports from Kharg Island to strangle the regime's revenue.

S8 Ep1179: Simon Constable and Jim McTague continue with a quiz highlighting that typical data centers use 300,000 gallons of water daily, while larger ones can reach 5 million gallons. Currently, most centers are urban, but 67% of planned facilities are rural. In L

S8 Ep1179: John Batchelor discusses with Simon Constable and Jim McTague the extreme weather conditions caused by a "super El Niño" year, leading to devastating wildfires in Canada and Europe. Constable reports from France on the high heat and smoke impact nea

S8 Ep1177: SCHEDULE FOR THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 7-29-26. 1885 CHILE STEEL SIDED WARSHIP Rebecca Grant and Gordon Chang report China is escalating provocations against the Philippines and Japan, including dangerous maneuvers near Second Thomas Shoal and firing mi

S8 Ep1177: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JBS, 7-29-26 The provided text is a transcript from the John Batchelor Show, featuring a detailed discussion between hosts and experts regarding escalating geopolitical tensions involving China, Iran, and the South China Sea.

S8 Ep1178: Bob Zimmerman notes the Deep Space Network facility in Spain narrowly avoided destruction by wildfires, highlighting the fragility of planetary communication nodes. Beyond Earth, astronomers have observed a precipitous drop in star formation within the An

S8 Ep1178: Bob Zimmerman reports SpaceX's 13th Starship Super Heavy launch was a major success, demonstrating the reliability of Raptor 3 engines and the thermal protection system. Zimmerman highlights the shift toward a "capitalism model," where private companies m

S8 Ep1178: Mary Anastasia O'Grady reports that following a narrow election victory, center-right businessman Abelardo de la Espriella faces fierce opposition from outgoing President Gustavo Petro. Petro, a former M19 terrorist, has refused to recognize the results,

S8 Ep1177: General Blaine Holt analyzes reports of China supplying advanced shoulder-launched missiles (MANPADS) to Iran via Hong Kong and Pakistan, signaling a major geopolitical shift. Holt explains that while these weapons threaten low-flying aircraft, the supply

S8 Ep1177: Sadanand Dhume examines India's "reservations" system, a rigid quota-based affirmative action program facing intense criticism for undermining university competitiveness. Originally intended to redress historical caste-based wrongs, quotas have expanded t

S8 Ep1177: Sadanand Dhume observes that despite having a vast pool of engineers and data, India lags behind the US and China in developing frontier AI models. Dhume discusses the "winner-take-all" fear versus the belief that AI technology will eventually diffuse glo

S8 Ep1177: Michael Bernstam notes official statistics reveal the Russian economy has entered a state of stagnation, with GDP growth at a mere 0.2% for the first half of 2026. While weapons production remains high, the civilian economy—including agriculture and const

S8 Ep1177: Michael Bernstam reports Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian refineries have severely pinched Moscow's fuel production, forcing it to import refined products from India. Bernstam argues that the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East have merged into a s

S8 Ep1177: Evan Ellis notes President Claudia Sheinbaum has seen success in reducing homicides and cooperating on border security, but deep-seated corruption persists. The USMCA's future is uncertain, with the Trump administration using ongoing negotiations as lever

S8 Ep1177: Evan Ellis surveys shifting political landscapes: Javier Milei is rallying support for the Bolsonaros in Brazil, highlighting a new era of cross-border political interference. In Colombia, President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella is signaling a pro-US shi

S8 Ep1177: Evan Ellis previews Brazil's upcoming October election, which pits the leftist Lula da Silva against Flavio Bolsonaro, son of the former president. While Lula currently leads in polls, his Workers' Party background and ties to the São Paulo Forum raise co

S8 Ep1177: Evan Ellis reports Keiko Fujimori has been inaugurated as Peru's president, appointing a respected center-right cabinet focused on fiscal discipline and US alignment. However, she faces challenges from endemic insecurity, corruption, and significant Chine

S8 Ep1177: Charles Burton and Gordon Chang discuss how trade tensions and rhetoric from the US have led to increased disdain among Canadians toward their neighbor. Burton discusses a poll showing Canadians view China more favorably than the US due to perceived econo

S8 Ep1177: Charles Burton and Gordon Chang note Xi Jinping broke tradition by skipping the 50th anniversary of the devastating Tangshan earthquake, sending a surrogate instead. Burton suggests this absence may signal political instability or paranoia regarding his d

S8 Ep1177: Rick Fisher and Gordon Chang discuss reports that China is transferring hundreds of advanced QW-12 and FN-16 man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) to Iran via Hong Kong intermediaries. Fisher warns this poses a significant threat to US aircraft in th

S8 Ep1177: Rebecca Grant and Gordon Chang report China is escalating provocations against the Philippines and Japan, including dangerous maneuvers near Second Thomas Shoal and firing missiles from submarines. Grant highlights the US Navy's preparedness to defend all

S8 Ep1176: SCHEDULE THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 7-28-26. 1900 IDAHO

S8 Ep1173: STREAMING MAKING JBS, 7-28-26 1900 postcards hotel pontchartrain

S8 Ep1175: Thaddeus McCotter notes Dr. Abdul El-Sayed denies being a socialist, claiming he merely wants to regulate "capitalism run amok." However, his platform includes radical proposals such as abolishing ICE. Haley Stevens frames him as a "celebrity candidate" a

S8 Ep1175: Thaddeus McCotter describes the Michigan Democratic Senate primary as a "civil war" between establishment candidate Haley Stevens and progressive Dr. Abdul El-Sayed. The candidates are sharply divided over AIPAC funding and support for Israel. Stevens is

S8 Ep1175: Joseph Sternberg notes Chairman Kevin Warsh is moving the Federal Reserve toward a "taciturn" style, ending the practice of "forward guidance." This reform aims to prevent the Fed from becoming locked into policies that may become inappropriate as data sh

S8 Ep1175: Joseph Sternberg criticizes Prime Minister Andy Burnham's economic policy as ineffective against the cost-of-living crisis. Sternberg argues that the UK is trapped by net-zero regulations that prevent the use of vast North Sea oil and gas reserves. Burnha

S8 Ep1175: Gregory Copley turns to the UK, where following the rise of Prime Minister Andy Burnham, the country faces political uncertainty as Labour struggles with a lack of growth. Copley highlights King Charles III's vital role as a unifying force, focusing on Br

S8 Ep1175: Gregory Copley reports Xi Jinping faces significant internal opposition from Communist Party elders at the Beidaihe retreat. Despite his titles, Xi's operational power is waning as the Chinese economy evaporates and social unrest grows. A recent ballistic

S8 Ep1175: Gregory Copley describes Cuba's total implosion as its infrastructure collapses and major blackouts occur. Copley describes a strategic failure in the Caribbean, where China has built significant influence over the last 20 years. The US must decide whethe

S8 Ep1175: Gregory Copley reports the Trump administration has imposed tariffs on Australia, alleging "forced labor" practices—a claim Copley describes as spurious. This move antagonizes a loyal ally that has fought alongside the US for over a century. Consequently,

S8 Ep1175: Jonathan Schanzer discusses new UK–US talks focused on a maritime coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has an opportunity to reset the relationship with Donald Trump. The Iranian-backed Houthi threat remains a

S8 Ep1175: Jonathan Schanzer reports the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East are merging as Russia, Iran, and China coordinate their efforts. Schanzer notes that Ukraine's Caspian Sea strike has clarified this global partnership. The US is currently attempting

S8 Ep1175: Mary Kissel observes President Zelenskyy is receiving a warmer reception in Washington due to Ukraine's increasing military leverage. Innovative long-range drone strikes on Russian energy nodes have demonstrated Ukraine's utility to US strategic interests

S8 Ep1175: Mary Kissel notes diplomatic efforts with Iran currently involve "shuttling messages" through intermediaries like Oman and Qatar. Kissel argues that the Islamic Republic is a revolutionary regime with no interest in genuine strategic peace. The administra

S8 Ep1175: Thaddeus McCotter and Judy Dempsey turn to a deadly ramming attack at a Berlin parade that has put Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the defensive regarding his security credentials. The populist AfD party is exploiting the tragedy to criticize "uncontrolled i

S8 Ep1175: Thaddeus McCotter and Judy Dempsey discuss Ukraine's strike on an Iranian vessel in the Caspian Sea, which complicates global energy security for Europe. This inland sea is a vital source of non-Russian energy. Dempsey reports that Germany is carefully ob

S8 Ep1175: Liz Peek examines the Michigan Democratic Senate primary as a national test for the party's ideological direction. Moderate Haley Stevens faces Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a candidate favored by the Democratic Socialists of America. Peek notes the "shocker" UAW e

S8 Ep1175: Liz Peek reports the US economy remains robust, driven by strong consumer spending in rural areas like Connecticut and Lancaster County. Peek highlights rising small business and consumer confidence despite increasing gasoline prices. Attention shifts to

S8 Ep1174: SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 7-27-26

S8 Ep1174: STREAMING MAKING JBS, 7-27-26 1926 SOUTH CAROLINA The provided text contains transcripts from the John Batchelor Show, featuring discussions on the geopolitical instability involving Iran, Ukraine, and Gaza.

S8 Ep1173: FILE 16. Headline: The AI Bubble: China’s Strategic Intellectual Property Theft Guest: Brandon Ward and Gordon Chang Summary: China is allegedly using stolen American intellectual property to train its artificial intelligence models, such as Moonshot’

S8 Ep1173: FILE 15. Headline: The Iran War: A Strategy Stuck in Stalemate Guest: Jonathan SAYEH and Bill Roggio Summary: After twelve days of intense US bombing, there is confusion regarding the long-term plan for achieving behavior change in Tehran. Jonathan Schanz

S8 Ep1173: FILE 14. Headline: Decapitating Hamas: Targeted Strikes in Gaza Guest: Samuel Benner and Bill Roggio Summary: The IDF has conducted targeted strikes against Hamas’s internal security commanders, including the head of the police force in central Gaza. Samu

S8 Ep1173: FILE 13. Headline: Starship Test 13: Success and Challenges in Reusability Guest: Doug Messier Summary: SpaceX’s Starship Test 13 achieved a controlled landing of the spacecraft in the Indian Ocean, though the Super Heavy booster exploded during its Gulf

S8 Ep1173: Headline: Iran’s Drone Test: Challenging the US Strategic Pause Guest: Edmund Fitton-Brown and Bill Roggio Summary: Following a US suspension of airstrikes, Iran launched drone attacks against Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Iraq to test the Trump administratio

S8 Ep1173: Headline: The Houthi-Iran Alliance and the Fragile Conflict with Saudi Arabia Guest: Edmund Fitton Brown Summary: Edmund Fitton Brown discusses the Houthis' motivation as a revolutionary Islamic force aligned with Iran's campaign against the West. While i

S8 Ep1173: Headline: The Venezuelan Transition and the Shield of the Americas Guest: Ernesto Araújo and Alejandro Peña Esclusa Summary: Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez has received unexpected praise from President Trump, causing concern among opposition

S8 Ep1173: Headline: Brazil’s Transnational Politics: Lula vs. the Conservative Alliance Guest: Ernesto Araújo and Alejandro Peña Esclusa Summary: President Lula da Silva of Brazil has shifted toward an anti-American stance, aligning himself with "criminal socialism

S8 Ep1173: Headline: The Strategic Link Between the Lebanon Ceasefire and Iranian Interests Guest: David Daoud Summary: David Daoud explains that the Lebanon ceasefire persists primarily because of U.S. diplomatic pressure to reach a broader agreement with Iran. Alt

S8 Ep1173: David Daoud and Bill Roggio report the IDF recently shot down an unarmed Hezbollah drone gathering intelligence over strategic ridges in southern Lebanon. Daoud highlights that Hezbollah continues to operate freely despite the presence of the Lebanese Arm

S8 Ep1173: Malcolm Hoenlein and Thaddeus McCotter turn to Lebanon's attempt to establish humanitarian pilot zones where the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) replace withdrawing Israeli troops. Critics argue this model mirrors the failed Gaza disengagement, as Hezbollah r

S8 Ep1173: Malcolm Hoenlein and Thaddeus McCotter discuss Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's travel to Washington to meet with President Trump and attend the funeral of the late Senator Graham. The agenda focuses heavily on Iran's continued aggression, including re

S8 Ep1173: Bridget Toomey and Bill Roggio report Houthi rebels have initiated a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabian ports, causing ship traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb strait to fall to its lowest level in months. While the Houthis cite local grievances, their

S8 Ep1173: Caleb Weiss and Bill Roggio assess Somali officials' claim of the death of Maalim Ibrahim, a co-founder of al-Shabaab and a key military planner who held many executive hats. However, Weiss cautions that such claims often lack third-party verification and

S8 Ep1173: Husain Haqqani and Bill Roggio examine the potential for unconventional warfare escalation across Eurasia and the specific risks within the Caspian theater. Haqqani warns that Iran's ability to hold the global economy hostage through the Red Sea and Hormu

S8 Ep1173: John Batchelor discusses the current tensions between Iran and the United States with Ambassador Husain Haqqani and Bill Roggio following a sudden halt in American bombing. Haqqani explains that both nations are seeking a diplomatic "off-ramp," though the

S8 Ep1172: Gaius and Germanicus: Gaius recounts the tragic tale of the elephants in 55 BCE, who were lured from North Africa with promises of safety only to be slaughtered in Pompey's arena. The elephants' pathetic pleas moved the Roman audience to tears, and Gaius

S8 Ep1172: Gaius and Germanicus: The discussion focuses on the "shrinking presidency" of Mr. Trump in 2026, drawing parallels to the diminished 19th-century stature of Benjamin Harrison. The hosts argue that geriatric leadership and the "unbelievable" stress of fail

S8 Ep1171: In The Londinium Chronicles, Gaius (John Batchelor) and Germanicus (Michael Vlahos) explore the intersections of Roman history and modern geopolitics. Gaius and Germanicus: The hosts analyze the current "floundering" of the White House and the Kremlin. Ge

S8 Ep1170: Neil Lanctot concludes with the revelation of the Zimmermann Telegram—a German proposal for an alliance with Mexico against the U.S.—which finally pushed the nation toward war. On April 2, 1917, Wilson asked Congress for a declaration of war "to make th

S8 Ep1170: Neil Lanctot follows Wilson's narrow re-election in late 1916, fueled by the slogan of maintaining peace. Seeking to end the conflict before the U.S. was forced in, he issued a peace note to all warring parties and delivered his famous "Peace Without Vict

S8 Ep1170: Neil Lanctot recounts the June 1916 Republican convention, which nominated Supreme Court Justice Charles Evans Hughes as a compromise candidate to block TR and save the party. TR, realizing he lacked sufficient support, made the difficult decision to decl

S8 Ep1170: Neil Lanctot details the March 1916 sinking of the Sussex, which caused more American deaths and pushed Wilson to the brink of war. German Ambassador Johann von Bernstorff worked desperately to maintain peace, recognizing that American entry would doom Ge

S8 Ep1169: Neil Lanctot covers the winter of 1915–1916, when TR championed the "preparedness" movement, arguing that the U.S. was dangerously vulnerable with only 100,000 men in its army. Wilson, feeling the political pressure, launched a speaking tour through the M

S8 Ep1169: Neil Lanctot examines the May 7, 1915, sinking of the Lusitania by a German submarine, which killed over 100 Americans and sparked a massive crisis for American progressivism. Wilson's advisor, Colonel House, urged severing ties with Germany—a move that t

S8 Ep1169: Neil Lanctot turns to early 1915, when the Great War had stabilized into a brutal stalemate in Europe while America remained neutral under Wilson. Jane Addams, horrified by the massacre, organized the Women's Peace Party to act as a pressure group for pea

S8 Ep1169: Neil Lanctot, author of The Approaching Storm: Roosevelt, Wilson, Addams, and Their Clash Over America's Future, introduces the three primary figures of the narrative in 1912: Jane Addams, Theodore Roosevelt (TR), and Woodrow Wilson. All three identified

S8 Ep1168: Barry Strauss follows Octavian's advance on Egypt after Actium, securing the loyalty of Eastern kings. Cleopatra attempts to build a new fleet in the Red Sea to escape to India, but her plans are thwarted. In Alexandria, a complex negotiation unfolds as A

S8 Ep1168: Barry Strauss narrates the naval Battle of Actium, which begins on September 2, 31 BC. Antony and Cleopatra command approximately 230 ships against Octavian and Agrippa's fleet of nearly 400. Facing starvation due to Agrippa's blockade, Antony and Cleopat

S8 Ep1168: Barry Strauss shifts the conflict to the western coast of Greece, where Antony and Cleopatra's massive fleet waits at Actium. Strauss emphasizes that while tactics are for amateurs, logistics are for professionals. Marcus Agrippa executes a brilliant logi

S8 Ep1168: Barry Strauss examines Mark Antony's critical "unforced error" of 33 BC: divorcing Octavia, Octavian's sister. This move provides Octavian with a massive propaganda victory, allowing him to frame Antony as having betrayed Rome for an Egyptian queen. Strau

S8 Ep1168: Barry Strauss traces the fracturing of the Second Triumvirate as Octavian utilizes his sister, Octavia, who marries Antony to seal a peace treaty in 40 BC. While depicted as a devoted housewife, Strauss suggests she remained loyal to Octavian, potentially

S8 Ep1168: Barry Strauss introduces Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt and member of the Ptolemaic dynasty founded by one of Alexander the Great's generals. Strauss describes Alexandria as the Mediterranean's greatest metropolis and a wealthy cultural hub. Cleopatra is d

S8 Ep1168: John Batchelor introduces Barry Strauss, author of The War That Made the Roman Empire: Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian at Actium, to discuss the transition from the death of Julius Caesar to the rise of Augustus. Strauss identifies Plutarch and Cassius Di

S8 Ep1102: Preview for Later Today: Chinese Missile Provocation in the Pacific. James Fanell discusses a non-routine JL-3 missile launch from a Chinese submarine. The missile traveled over 10,000 kilometers across the Pacific, passing US territories, signaling aggre

S8 Ep1102: Preview for Later Today: China's Ambitions for Lunar Colonization. Rick Fisher details China's "Apollo Plus" moon landing plan. Utilizing architecture similar to Soviet systems, the program involves docking in lunar orbit and potential unmanned landings b

S8 Ep1102: Preview for Later Today: Addressing Russian Threats Against Poland. Mary Kissel explores deterrent strategies against Russian aggression toward Poland. Suggestions include stationing NATO troops on the border, restarting troop rotations, and encouraging i

S8 Ep1102: Preview for Later Today: Reassessing Fed Guidance and the Inflation Spike. Liz Peek comments on Governor Christopher Waller's critique of the "dot plot" and forward guidance. She explains how these tools potentially misled officials during unprecedented e

S8 Ep1102: Preview for Later Today: Iran's Potential for Nuclear Weaponization. Henry Sokolski warns that Iran's Bushehr reactor contains significant spent fuel. He estimates this fuel holds enough plutonium for hundreds of bombs, which could be extracted quickly, c

S8 Ep1102: Preview for Later Today: Labour's Internal Conflict Over UK Immigration. Joseph Sternberg examines the British Labour Party's struggle to solve immigration. While leadership recognizes the need for policy settlements, a far-left progressive flank finds de

S8 Ep1101: SCHEDULE JBS, 7-6-2026.

S8 Ep1101: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING BILL ROGGIO AND SAMUEL BEN-UR, 7-6-2026.

S8 Ep1100: Alan Tonelson. Tonelson discusses Canada's attempt to pivot trade toward China, which has drawn U.S. criticism. He argues that the U.S. maintains the upper hand because of China's massive trade dependence and internal economic vulnerabilities. (16)

S8 Ep1099: Bruce Bechtol. Bechtol analyzes the deepening military partnership between North Korea and Russia, driven by ammunition sales for the Ukraine war. This influx of cash allows North Korea to modernize its navy and build destroyers. (15)

S8 Ep1099: Ahmad Sharawi. Sharawi discusses Syria's attempt to regain political influence in Lebanon without military intervention. He describes the newly formed Syrian parliament as a non-representative body designed solely to consolidate power under the current re

S8 Ep1099: Mary Anastasia O'Grady. O'Grady explains that Trump's refusal to renew USMCA creates investor uncertainty but no immediate trade changes. She highlights the agreement's necessity for North American manufacturing and agricultural competitiveness against MM

S8 Ep1099: Edmund Fitton-Brown. Fitton-Brown describes Houthis as autonomous Iranian proxies testing regional blockades. He notes Oman serves as a critical, unpressured hub for smuggling weapons and illicit goods, enabling Houthis to recover from strikes. (12)

S8 Ep1099: Edmund Fitton-Brown. Fitton-Brown highlights the suspicious absence of Mojtaba Khamenei from his father's funeral, suggesting he is incapacitated. He also characterizes Iran's attempts to charge tolls in the Strait of Hormuz as blatant international gangs

S8 Ep1099: Janatan Sayeh. Sayeh details how the Iranian regime used the Ayatollah's funeral to project false stability amidst paranoia. He reports increased internal repression and a shift in power toward the IRGC as clerics lose legitimacy. (10)

S8 Ep1099: John Hardie. Hardie observes a more supportive U.S. stance toward Ukraine's long-range strikes. He suggests Putin is isolated, receiving flawed military reports from his generals, and continues to delay mobilization decisions despite a strategic stalemate

S8 Ep1099: David Daoud. Daoud critiques U.S. policy for treating Lebanon as a sovereign state, ignoring Hezbollah's deep social and political integration. He warns that the nation is a failed state, now entirely dominated by Iranian influence. (8)

S8 Ep1099: David Daoud. Daoud argues the Lebanese Armed Forces are unlikely to confront Hezbollah, potentially facilitating performative security checks. He stresses that Israel's primary objective in Lebanon is ensuring long-term security for its northern citizens.

S8 Ep1099: Samuel Ben-Ur discusses the immense difficulty of rebuilding Gaza while Hamas remains in power. He notes Hamas uses reconstruction as a political tool, often obstructing aid efforts to maintain its local authority and influence. (6)

S8 Ep1099: Samuel Ben~Ur views the resignation of a Hamas official as a cosmetic tactic to maintain control over Gaza. Despite military setbacks, Hamas continues recruiting youth and manufacturing low-level explosives to remain a significant threat. (5)

S8 Ep1099: Ernesto Araújo and Alejandro Peña Esclusa. Esclusa details how narco-trafficking infected the São Paulo Forum, causing leftist leaders to reject democratic losses. Araújo argues regional stability requires a dedicated alliance to eradicate the link betwee

S8 Ep1099: Ernesto Araújo and Alejandro Peña Esclusa. Esclusa details the Venezuelan regime's negligent earthquake response, focusing on hiding illicit assets rather than saving lives. Araújo argues the U.S. must do more to dismantle the criminal network currently g

S8 Ep1099: Bill Roggio. Roggio emphasizes that Hezbollah's core goal remains Israel's destruction, rendering diplomatic ceasefires ineffective. He also warns that Syria's leader is a savvy jihadist who effectively manipulates Western perceptions while remaining a da

S8 Ep1099: Bill Roggio. Roggio explains Pakistan's classification as a "friendly" nation by Iran, highlighting its role as a deceptive mediator. He cautions that Pakistan's military often undermines U.S. interests to maintain its own regional influence. (1)

S8 Ep1095: Gaius and Germanicus discuss the ubiquity of the term "multipolar" in modern political discourse. Germanicus dismisses the word as a "badge word" or a "secret handshake" used by experts to obscure the actual reality of a declining American empire. He ar

S8 Ep1095: Gaius and Germanicus examine the escalating tensions between Poland and Russia. They analyze reports regarding Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk's warnings of critical months ahead and potential Russian provocations. Germanicus contends that NATO is the p

S8 Ep1095: Gaius and Germanicus discuss the concept of "honest graft" in the American republic from their perspective in 92 AD Londinium. They define honest graft as the legal wealth gained through government office, citing Donald Trump's crypto coin venture as a mo

S8 Ep1094: Professor William Taubman, guest author, concludes that following his departure from the Pentagon in 1968, which Johnson orchestrated out of concern for his health, McNamara became President of the World Bank. He viewed this role as repentance, shifting t

S8 Ep1094: Professor William Taubman, guest author, reveals that by 1966, McNamara was a secret opponent of the war, admitting to aides that he desperately wanted to bring the troops home, yet he remained the public face of the conflict out of loyalty to the preside

S8 Ep1094: Professor William Taubman, guest author, describes how McNamara's loyalty to LBJ even extended to acting as a political spy, reporting on the Kennedys' private intentions during the 1964 election to soothe the president's insecurities. Meanwhile, he maint

S8 Ep1094: Professor William Taubman, guest author, explains that LBJ deeply admired McNamara's efficiency, often summoning his family to the White House for "barbecue" meetings or demanding his presence while swimming. During the 1964 Gulf of Tonkin incidents, McNa

S8 Ep1094: Professor William Taubman, guest author, recounts how the assassination of JFK forged a deep, "opaque" bond between McNamara and Jackie Kennedy, as he spent the night following the murder sitting at her feet while she recounted the tragedy. Despite his gr

S8 Ep1094: Professor William Taubman, guest author, describes how, after the war, McNamara joined the "Whiz Kids" at Ford Motor Company, rising to become president through his mastery of data and safety innovations like seat belts. In 1960, he was recruited by the K

S8 Ep1094: Professor William Taubman, guest author, explains that McNamara's intellectual journey began at Berkeley and Harvard Business School, where he was consistently recognized as the "smartest guy" in his class, excelling in economics and mathematics. During a

S8 Ep1094: Professor William Taubman, guest author, recounts how, in March 1945, Robert McNamara served on Guam as a statistical advisor to General Curtis LeMay, where he played a pivotal role in shifting B-29 bombing tactics to low-altitude strikes. This strategy l

S8 Ep1093: George Black, guest author, concludes with the ongoing effort to address the war's legacy, which reached a milestone in 2019 with a bipartisan gathering at Bien Hoa airbase to launch a massive cleanup project. This initiative, supported by figures like

S8 Ep1093: George Black, guest author, describes how, in the late 1990s, the Canadian organization Hatfield Associates collaborated with the Vietnamese 1080 Committee to conduct a comprehensive study of dioxin contamination. They chose the A Shau Valley as a study s

S8 Ep1093: George Black, guest author, explains that the mid-1990s marked a turning point as Bill Clinton moved toward diplomatic normalization with Vietnam in 1995, supported by key veteran senators like John McCain and John Kerry. This political cover was essentia

S8 Ep1093: George Black, guest author, recounts how, in the aftermath of the war, the United States struggled with the trauma of its first major defeat, often looking for scapegoats like the media or "faithless civilians." This bitterness manifested in the MIA/POW i

S8 Ep1093: George Black, guest author, describes how Manus Campbell's experience in the mountains of I Corps was defined by the arbitrariness of death and survival. His unit frequently walked into triangular ambushes set by elite North Vietnamese regulars, resulting

S8 Ep1093: George Black, guest author, introduces two central protagonists, Manus Campbell and Chuck Searcy, who arrived in Vietnam in June 1967. Campbell, a young Marine from New Jersey, was driven by a desire to prove himself to his demanding father and joined the

S8 Ep1093: George Black, guest author, explains that by 1965, the United States escalated the conflict by deploying Marines to Da Nang to protect the airfield. This period marked the expansion of Operation Ranch Hand, a campaign focused on using technology to defeat

S8 Ep1093: George Black, guest author, recounts how, in May 1959, the North Vietnamese leadership held a critical meeting in Hanoi to determine the future of their revolutionary struggle. While figures like Ho Chi Minh and Vo Nguyen Giap were cautious about provokin

S8 Ep1092: Geoffrey Wawro, guest author, concludes that after the 1973 peace deal, the NVA rebuilt their forces, confident that a distracted US government—weakened by Watergate and the oil crisis—would not intervene again. When the final 1975 offensive beg

S8 Ep1092: Geoffrey Wawro, guest author, describes how Nixon's "Vietnamization" policy aimed to prepare the South Vietnamese army (ARVN) to fight independently through massive equipment transfers. However, the 1971 invasion of Laos (Lam Son 719) proved a disaster, r

S8 Ep1092: Geoffrey Wawro, guest author, explains that in 1970, Nixon ordered an incursion into Cambodia to destroy NVA supply dumps and the Ho Chi Minh Trail extensions. While US forces captured significant materiel, the NVA simply withdrew deeper into the interior

S8 Ep1092: Geoffrey Wawro, guest author, details how Richard Nixon derailed peace talks in 1968 through Anna Chennault, promising South Vietnamese President Thieu a "better deal" to prevent a "November surprise" for Hubert Humphrey. This move resulted in the war con

S8 Ep1092: Geoffrey Wawro, guest author, recounts how, in January 1968, the Tet Offensive was launched by the NVA and Viet Cong to deliver a knockout blow to the South Vietnamese government. While the communists suffered massive tactical losses, they achieved a stra

S8 Ep1092: Geoffrey Wawro, guest author, describes how Westmoreland's strategy consisted of three phases: a massive logistical buildup, crushing search-and-destroy operations, and eventually handing the war over to a capable South Vietnamese army. However, the plan

S8 Ep1092: Geoffrey Wawro, guest author, explains that General Westmoreland introduced the "search and destroy" concept, aiming to use superior US mobility and technology to annihilate North Vietnamese Army (NVA) forces. The Battle of Ia Drang in November 1965 becam

S8 Ep1092: Geoffrey Wawro, guest author, explores the Gulf of Tonkin incident in August 1964, which served as a political catalyst for the Vietnam War. Lyndon Johnson and Robert McNamara sought an incident to galvanize domestic support against conservative critics a

S8 Ep1091: Colonel Jeff McCausland reflects on how, following the battle, the war's brutality is mirrored by civil unrest, specifically the deadly 1863 draft riots in New York City, highlighting deep internal divisions within the North. While General Meade celeb

S8 Ep1091: Colonel Jeff McCausland recounts how, on July 3, Robert E. Lee initiates a bold assault aimed at the Union center on Cemetery Ridge, though faulty assumptions regarding troop strength and coordination plague the plan. A massive two-hour artillery barrage—

S8 Ep1091: Colonel Jeff McCausland explains that by July 2, the Union Army establishes a formidable "fishhook" defensive formation from Culp's Hill to the Round Tops, benefiting from interior lines that allow General Meade to reposition forces much faster than Gener

S8 Ep1091: Colonel Jeff McCausland describes how, on the morning of July 1, 1863, Union General John Buford's cavalry identifies Confederate infantry advancing from the west toward the vital crossroads of Gettysburg. Recognizing the critical nature of the terrain, B

S8 Ep1090: Patrick K. O'Donnell, guest author, describes how, in the war's final hours, Robert E. Lee faced a monumental decision: follow Jefferson Davis's orders to scatter his army into the mountains to conduct guerrilla warfare, or surrender. Lee chose to put "

S8 Ep1090: Patrick K. O'Donnell, guest author, explains that following Blazer's capture, Harry Harrison Young took command of the Union's special forces assets under Phil Sheridan. Only 5'5" but "absolutely fearless," Young transformed the Jesse Scouts into a vital

S8 Ep1090: Patrick K. O'Donnell, guest author, details the final confrontation between Richard Blazer and Mosby's Rangers at Cabletown (or Meyerstown). After Blazer's scouts had embarrassed the Rangers twice, Mosby orchestrated a massive 300-man ambush. During a run

S8 Ep1090: Patrick K. O'Donnell, guest author, recounts how, by August 1864, General Ulysses S. Grant had grown enraged by the disruption caused by irregular partisans and ordered Phil Sheridan to initiate "total war" in the Shenandoah Valley. Grant's instructions w

S8 Ep1090: Patrick K. O'Donnell, guest author, explains that in the summer of 1864, Confederate General Jubal Early, known as Lee's "mean old dog," launched a bold campaign that brought the war to the gates of the nation's capital. After repelling Union forces at Ly

S8 Ep1090: Patrick K. O'Donnell, guest author, describes how, in early 1864, the Union launched the Dahlgren Raid, a daring "decapitation raid" aimed at infiltrating Richmond to burn the city and kill or capture Jefferson Davis. Led by Ulric Dahlgren and General Kil

S8 Ep1090: Patrick K. O'Donnell, guest author, recounts how, in 1863, Richard Blazer emerged as an unlikely Union hero, leading "Blazer's Scouts," also known as the Legion of Honor. A former barge driver who was often disheveled on the parade ground, Blazer possesse

S8 Ep1090: Patrick K. O'Donnell, guest author, introduces Captain John Charles Carpenter and the origins of the Jesse Scouts, a Union special operations group formed in Missouri in 1861. Named after Jesse Fremont, wife of General John C. Fremont, these scouts utiliz

S8 Ep1089: Robert Cwiklik, guest author, explains that the ultimate turning point came when Grant decided to back down from Sheridan's aggressive mission. As the news reached New Orleans, telegraph operators shouted, "Grant backs down," a moment celebrated by the Wh

S8 Ep1089: Robert Cwiklik, guest author, describes how, following the legislative intervention, Sheridan sent his infamous "Banditti" telegrams to Secretary of War William Belknap. He proposed that Congress declare the White League ringleaders "Banditti" so they cou

S8 Ep1089: Robert Cwiklik, guest author, explains that Sheridan arrived in New Orleans in late 1874, but his presence immediately sparked suspicion and sarcasm from the local white press. On January 4, 1875, the situation reached a breaking point during the organiza

S8 Ep1089: Robert Cwiklik, guest author, recounts how, in the wake of the 1874 White League coup, President Grant felt compelled to take decisive action, despite the 1874 midterm elections flipping the House of Representatives to Democratic control. Grant initially

S8 Ep1089: Robert Cwiklik, guest author, describes how, by 1874, the Crescent City White League, an armed vigilante group, emerged to violently intimidate Republican officials and Black voters in Louisiana. Their aggression was fueled by a circuit judge's opinion su

S8 Ep1089: Robert Cwiklik, guest author, explains that following the 1866 massacres, Congress passed the Reconstruction Act of 1867, imposing military rule and requiring new state constitutions that enfranchised Black men. This era saw the rise of "carpetbaggers"—No

S8 Ep1089: Robert Cwiklik, guest author, recounts how, in July 1866, New Orleans became the site of a brutal police-led riot against a constitutional convention aimed at securing Black voting rights. Following Lincoln's death, President Andrew Johnson's lenient Reco

S8 Ep1089: Robert Cwiklik, guest author, discusses the pivotal moments following Lee's surrender on April 9, 1865. President Lincoln, addressing a jubilant crowd, tentatively endorsed voting rights for African-Americans, specifically those who served in the Union Ar

S8 Ep1088: Ronald White, guest author, describes how, in his final decades, Chamberlain served as the surveyor of the port in Portland, a position that allowed him to continue writing and speaking while undergoing repeated surgeries for his Petersburg wound. Even in

S8 Ep1088: Ronald White, guest author, recounts how, in 1880, Maine faced an armed insurrection following a disputed election known as the "Great Count-out," where the Democratic governor manipulated ballot results. Chamberlain was summoned to Augusta to maintain or

S8 Ep1088: Ronald White, guest author, explains that after his governorship, Chamberlain returned to Bowdoin College as its president, determined to modernize the institution. He introduced progressive reforms, including science, a medical school, and co-education,

S8 Ep1088: Ronald White, guest author, describes how, returning home as a hero, Chamberlain overcame a stutter to become one of the nation's most eloquent orators, focusing on the themes of national reconciliation. He was drafted by the Republican Party and served f

S8 Ep1088: Ronald White, guest author, recounts how, in June 1864, Chamberlain led a perilous frontal assault at Petersburg, where he was struck by a minié ball that traveled through his hips, shattering internal blood vessels and his bladder. Surgeons gave him only

S8 Ep1088: Ronald White, guest author, explains that the 20th Maine's early service was defined by the grim realities of warfare, from the massacre at Fredericksburg to a debilitating smallpox outbreak caused by defective vaccination serum within the camp. By June 1

S8 Ep1088: Ronald White, guest author, describes how Chamberlain began his academic career at Bowdoin College in 1855, seeking to instill critical thinking in his pupils rather than treating them as mere boys to be regimented. His tenure was marked by encounters wit

S8 Ep1088: Ronald White, guest author, recounts how, in 1848, Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, known as Lawrence, entered Bowdoin College after years of intensive home preparation in classics and Greek. Raised in Brewer, Maine, by parents who valued the "life of the min

S8 Ep1087: SCHEDULE JBS, 7-3-2026.

S8 Ep1086: Daniel Rood, author of In the Shadow of the Great House, reveals that the University of Georgia's Baldwin Hall was built over an unacknowledged burial ground for enslaved people. Although the university initially claimed the remains were European, DNA

S8 Ep1086: Daniel Rood, author of In the Shadow of the Great House, traces how the plantation system evolved globally, with Cuba becoming a sugar powerhouse using industrial steam technology after the Haitian Revolution. In modern Brazil, multinational corporations

S8 Ep1086: Daniel Rood, author of In the Shadow of the Great House, recounts how, during the Civil War, General Sherman targeted "great houses" like that of Confederate politician Howell Cobb for destruction to cripple the planter class. Field Order 15 initially pro

S8 Ep1086: Daniel Rood, author of In the Shadow of the Great House, explains that enslaved people like Suki provided the essential "intellectual labor" and agricultural expertise required for successful plantations. Despite this, the domestic slave trade treated two

S8 Ep1086: Daniel Rood, author of In the Shadow of the Great House, describes how, during the Siege of Yorktown, Cornwallis prioritized British sugar profits in Jamaica over the lives of thousands of black refugees, pushing them out to starve or face recapture. In c

S8 Ep1086: Daniel Rood, author of In the Shadow of the Great House, explains that American founders like Thomas Jefferson lived in a state of "incoherence," advocating for liberty while fearing a genocide of white people if slaves were freed. Early Virginia history

S8 Ep1086: Daniel Rood, author of In the Shadow of the Great House, argues that the modern link between race and slavery was a conscious creation by planters to secure a lifelong, reproductive workforce. Philosopher John Locke codified this in Carolina's founding do

S8 Ep1086: Daniel Rood, author of In the Shadow of the Great House, recounts how, in 1933, agronomist Wofford Camp led the Associated Farmers of California to violently suppress cotton worker strikes in the Central Valley. This conflict represented the "cutting edge

S8 Ep1086: Fitzhugh Brundage, author of A Fate Worse Than Hell, reflects on how the remains of prisoners became symbols of uneasy national memory, with many sites like Camp Douglas in Chicago resulting in unmarked mass graves. At Andersonville, nearly 14,000 Union s

S8 Ep1086: Fitzhugh Brundage, author of A Fate Worse Than Hell, describes how Andersonville became a death camp where 35,000 men were crammed into a space with no shelter and polluted water. Commander Henry Wirz oversaw a site where over 100 men died daily from star

S8 Ep1086: Fitzhugh Brundage, author of A Fate Worse Than Hell, describes how Andersonville became a death camp where 35,000 men were crammed into a space with no shelter and polluted water. Commander Henry Wirz oversaw a site where over 100 men died daily from star

S8 Ep1086: Fitzhugh Brundage, author of A Fate Worse Than Hell, explains that following the Battle of Gettysburg, the breakdown of exchanges necessitated large-scale prisoner concentration. Andersonville was established in remote Georgia to alleviate the burden on R

S8 Ep1086: Fitzhugh Brundage, author of A Fate Worse Than Hell, describes how Union administrator William Hoffman managed Northern prisons with a focus on extreme cost-savings, even diverting ration funds into camp improvements. Meanwhile, the Lieber Code (General O

S8 Ep1086: Fitzhugh Brundage, author of A Fate Worse Than Hell, details how Confederate official John Winder, a West Pointer from Maryland, supervised the detention of Union prisoners in Richmond. He oversaw the conversion of industrial structures, like the Libby Pr

S8 Ep1086: Fitzhugh Brundage, author of A Fate Worse Than Hell, explains that prisoner exchanges were based on 18th-century European customs that sought to prevent the execution or enslavement of captured enemies. Armies used a calculus to trade soldiers, such as eq

S8 Ep1086: Fitzhugh Brundage, author of A Fate Worse Than Hell, discusses the capture of three black sailors from the Isaac Smith in 1863, which forced the Confederacy to decide if black men in uniform were POWs or runaway slaves. While white sailors were quickly ex

S8 Ep1085: Jim McTague discusses the bustling July 4th tourism in Lancaster County despite a sweltering heat dome. He explores rising inflation at local diners, erratic shopping patterns, and a robust yet nerve-wracking labor market. McTaguehighlights how residents

S8 Ep1085: Preview: Historian Fitzhugh Brundage analyzes sixteen enigmatic photographs taken by Andrew Riddle at Andersonville prison in 1864. These rare images became iconic through later etchings published in news journals. Brundage emphasizes their historical imp

S8 Ep1085: Preview: Professor Fitzhugh Brundage examines the descent of Civil War prisons into systemic brutality. Focusing on Richmond's Libby Prison, a repurposed tobacco warehouse, he explains how the initial intent of civilized exchanges failed. Brundage details

S8 Ep1085: Preview: Professor Daniel Rood explores the early American plantation system through the life of Anthony Johnson. Arriving in 1619, Johnson successfully achieved freedom and land ownership before racial enslavement laws were fully articulated. Rood highli

S8 Ep1085: Preview: Professor Daniel Rood discusses Charles Dickens' historical American tour and his observations of the brutal overland slave trade. Rood describes Dickens' harrowing account of witnessing a mother and children separated from their family by sale.

S8 Ep1085: ### **HEADLINE: Pacific Watch: From Newsom's Political Ambitions to California’s Animal Crossings and Culinary Diplomacy** ### **GUESTS** * **Jeff Bliss:** Pacific Watch correspondent and guide on West Coast matters. * **Michael Vlahos (referred to a

1085: SCHEDULE OF JBS 7-3-2026.

S8 Ep1084: Michael Vorenberg describes how Ulysses S. Grant found himself caught between the warring factions of the Johnson administration. After witnessing Johnson's disastrous "swing around the circle" tour, Grant realized the President was unfit for loyalty. Gra

S8 Ep1084: Michael Vorenberg explains that on August 20, 1866, Johnson proclaimed the insurrection over to strip Congress of its war powers. Despite ongoing massacres in Memphis and New Orleans, Johnson tried to suppress reports of violence to maintain a "peace" nar

S8 Ep1084: Michael Vorenberg traces how Andrew Johnson, initially seen as a radical ally, shifted toward a policy of white supremacy and hasty peace. He vetoed the Civil Rights Act of 1866, leading moderate Republicans to unite with radicals. This intense conflict c

S8 Ep1084: Michael Vorenberg examines Richard Henry Dana's "grasp of war" philosophy, arguing the Union should hold the Confederacy until civil rights were secured. This contrasted with Lincoln's "let 'em up easy" approach. Congress used these war powers to extend t

S8 Ep1084: Michael Vorenberg discusses how the government used military tribunals to try Lincoln's conspirators and Andersonville commandant Henry Wirz, arguing a state of war still existed. Secretary of War Stanton hoped to implicate Jefferson Davis in these crimes

S8 Ep1084: Michael Vorenberg explains that after official surrenders, Confederate General Edmund Kirby Smith fled to Mexico rather than surrender his Trans-Mississippi forces. Small skirmishes continued at Palmetto Ranch, which is often cited as the last battle of t

S8 Ep1084: Michael Vorenberg recounts how, following Lincoln's assassination, William T. Sherman met Joseph Johnston at Bennett Place to negotiate a surrender. Sherman offered terms more generous than Grant's, including allowing Southerners to keep weapons in armorR

S8 Ep1084: Michael Vorenberg challenges the idea that the Civil War ended at Appomattox Courthouse on April 9, 1865. While Lee's surrender was a crucial step involving the stacking of arms, Lincoln did not publicly declare the war over. Lincoln remained focused on t

S8 Ep1084: Lance Gatling reports that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi unveiled a $2.3 trillion investment roadmap focused on 17 key technologies, including AI and chip manufacturing. The plan aims for economic independence and supply line diversity. Takaichi enjoys hi

S8 Ep1084: Anatol Lieven discusses Vladimir Putin's public admission that Ukrainian drone strikes are causing significant difficulties and a loss of refining capacity. While Putin remains in charge, he faces pressure from hawks and doves regarding escalation. Despit

S8 Ep1084: Mary Kissel evaluates US policy toward China, noting Beijing's aggression toward Taiwan and the Philippines. She praises the Trump administration's support for Ukraine, particularly in surveillance and military assistance, which enabled deep strikes into

S8 Ep1084: Mary Kissel discusses a catastrophic earthquake in Venezuela, highlighting the human tragedy exacerbated by corrupt building practices. While US first responders are assisting, Kissel critiques the State Department for preventing opposition leader María C

S8 Ep1084: Colonel Jeff McCausland describes how, on the third day, Lee ordered a frontal assault on the Union center despite Longstreet's protests. Pickett's Charge resulted in devastating casualties, with nearly 60-65% of the force lost to artillery and rifle fire

S8 Ep1084: Colonel Jeff McCausland explains how rifled muskets increased accuracy while tactics remained outdated, causing high casualties. On the second day, Strong Vincent took the initiative to occupy Little Round Top without orders. Joshua Chamberlain's 20th Mai

S8 Ep1084: Colonel Jeff McCausland recounts how General Reynolds was killed by a Confederate marksman while leading his men forward into the woods. Later that day, Robert E. Lee issued a famous discretionary order to Richard Ewell to take Cemetery Hill "if practicab

S8 Ep1083: Colonel Jeff McCausland discusses John Buford's arrival at Gettysburg, identifying key terrain like Cemetery Hill. Buford sent urgent messages to John Reynolds, urging him to bring infantry forward quickly. Reynolds trusted Buford's assessment, leading Un

S8 Ep1082: STREAMING MAKING OF JBS, FEATURING LANCE GATLING IN TOKYO, 7-2-26

S8 Ep1081: Preview: Lance Gatling discusses Prime Minister Takaichi's 14-year plan to accelerate Japan's high-tech sectors. She maintains record popularity among conservatives and young people despite bold spending, supported by a culture that is impressively hardwo

S8 Ep1081: Preview: Mary Kissel analyzes shifting US-China relations, noting that the private sector is proactively diversifying. CEOs recognize China's deflating, corrupt economy while the government remains slow to recognize that outreach is not being met with coo

S8 Ep1081: Preview: Anatol Lieven examines Putin's leadership following Ukrainian infrastructure attacks. Putin remains in charge while navigating pressure between hawks demanding radical escalation and doves seeking a peace settlement, essentially trying to kick th

S8 Ep1081: Preview: Colonel Jeff McCausland recounts the 20th Maine's stand at Little Round Top. Out of ammunition, Colonel Chamberlain ordered a bayonet charge to successfully hold the southernmost line against exhausted Confederate forces, preventing a total Union

S8 Ep1081: review: Colonel Jeff McCausland explains how Minie ball technology increased lethal ranges at Gettysburg. While accuracy improved significantly, military tactics remained outdated, failing to account for the technology's devastating power against soldiers

S8 Ep1083: SCHEDULE OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 7-1--2026.

S8 Ep1082: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING GORDON CHANG, RICK FISHER, JIM FANELL, STEVE YATES, 7-1-26

S8 Ep1081: Justin Leopold Cohen discusses the trilateral framework between Israel, Lebanon, and the U.S. that aims to disarm Hezbollah, though the group has rejected the terms. Despite reduced Iranian power, Hezbollah remains a heavily armed proxy, maintaining ex

S8 Ep1081: Anne Stevenson-Yang describes the collapse of China's real estate market, where half-empty apartment towers in ghost cities now offer cheap rent to young workers. Municipalities are burdened with massive debt from failed development projects, and building

S8 Ep1081: Michael Bernstam reports that Ukrainian drone strikes have taken 28% of Russian oil refineries out of commission, causing widespread fuel shortages and forcing Russia to import gasoline. Vladimir Putin admitted the situation is "difficult" as Crimea faces

S8 Ep1081: Simon Constable reports on the breaking of a severe European heat wave and shifting commodity prices, with Brent crude seeing a significant drop. In the UK, Andy Burnham is positioned as a potential new Prime Minister, though there are calls for a general

S8 Ep1081: Professor Evan Ellis discusses the U.S. decision not to renew the USMCA, maintaining leverage over Mexico regarding security and immigration. In Argentina, a cabinet resignation due to corruption investigations highlights vulnerabilities for President Mil

S8 Ep1081: Professor Evan Ellis reports that Keiko Fujimori is the declared victor in Peru's election, promising a pro-security, pro-U.S. agenda despite continued economic ties with China. Meanwhile, Bolivia remains unstable as President Rodrigo Paz navigates an eco

S8 Ep1081: Professor Evan Ellis analyzes the challenges facing President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella, who must reverse fiscal mismanagement while navigating a divided Congress. His administration plans a hardline stance against illegal armed groups like the ELN a

S8 Ep1081: Professor Evan Ellis discusses the two massive earthquakes that struck Venezuela, causing widespread destruction due to corrupt building practices and neglected infrastructure. The U.S. military has deployed 900 personnel for relief as the illegitimate Ro

S8 Ep1081: Bob Zimmerman reports research showing weightlessness harms reproduction in mice, suggesting humans will need artificial gravity for long-term missions. On Mars, Curiosity discovered unique polygon ridges, possibly indicating ancient water. Additionally,

S8 Ep1081: Bob Zimmerman examines new spaceports in Sweden, Oman, and Australia, noting geographical and financial challenges. He criticizes India's ISRO for a lack of transparency regarding delays in the Gaganyaan manned mission and undisclosed rocket failures, war

S8 Ep1081: Bob Zimmerman reports that NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman is streamlining the Artemis program by focusing on a lunar base and leveraging private sector contracts for landers and infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Boeing Starliner program is likely dead fol

S8 Ep1081: Bob Zimmerman discusses Rocket Lab's acquisition of Iridium for $8 billion, signaling a trend toward vertical integration. He also covers Blue Origin's investigation into a launchpad explosion and SpaceX's Star Mind data constellation, emphasizing the imp

S8 Ep1081: Gordon Chang and Steve Yates discuss the alarm in Beijing after a small aircraft crashed into the CITIC Tower, highlighting vulnerabilities in China's air defenses near the leadership compound. The incident shattered the narrative of an impervious securit

S8 Ep1081: Steve Yates analyzes China's Ethnic Unity Law, which codifies ethnonationalism and criminalizes the denial of Chinese identity even for those outside the PRC. The law targets Taiwanese identity and may lead to the extradition of critics, reflecting the CC

S8 Ep1081: Jim Fanell explains China's "salami slicing" tactics in the maritime domain, using law enforcement vessels to claim sovereign jurisdiction over waters east of Taiwan. He recommends the U.S. counter these moves by sending an aircraft carrier strike group t

S8 Ep1081: Rick Fisher discusses China's Tiangong space station, which is set to double in size by 2030 and host international partners. He highlights dual-use military concerns and potential plans for a lunar toll booth at the L2 Lagrange point to control access to

S8 Ep1080: Rick Fisher explores China's ambitious plans for a successor space station and lunar presence. He highlights their goal of total domination over the Earth-moon system, utilizing dual-use technology to secure a new permanent celestial foothold. (3)

S8 Ep1080: Michael Bernstam discusses Putin's admission of "difficulties" as Ukrainian drones target refineries and the shadow fleet. He warns that a desperate leader under internal pressure may resort to drastic measures as diesel supplies vanish now. (1)

S8 Ep1080: Simon Constable reports on a severe heatwave in southern France that impaired cognitive function. He shares the collective relief felt as temperatures finally dropped, allowing for clearer thinking and a return to daily domestic comfort. (2)

S8 Ep1080: Evan Ellis analyzes Peru's rightward political shift and its implications for Chinese influence. He suggests that while economic ties remain strong, Peru may subtly accommodate U.S. security concerns regarding deep-water infrastructure and information tec

S8 Ep1080: Captain James Fanell details China's tactical shift east of Taiwan, using law enforcement vessels to assert jurisdictional control. This "salami slicing" strategy aims to redefine international waters as Chinese coastal territory through official legal ma

S8 Ep1080: Bob Zimmerman discusses the necessity of transparency after rocket failures. He argues that honesty prevents the culture of fear seen in the Soviet Union, builds public trust, and makes complex technical problems easier to solve. (6)

S8 Ep1074: SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-29-2026.

S8 Ep1073: Gordon Chang challenges China's manufacturing numbers as "science fiction" and the promotion of robotics to hide massive youth unemployment. Chang explains that Xi Jinping prioritizes manufacturing over consumption to keep the population dependent. He a

S8 Ep1073: David Maxwell and Gordon Chang analyze North Korea's "salami slicing" strategy in the DMZ designed to normalize its activities. Maxwell warns Kim Jong-un seeks to divide the US-South Korea alliance. He urges a superior political warfare strategy to expose

S8 Ep1073: Ahmad Sharawi documents Hamas's presence in Turkey, where senior operatives enjoy sanctuary to plot attacks in the West Bank. Sharawi notes Turkey provides a permissive environment to weaken Israel's regional freedom. Hamas maintains leadership ae

S8 Ep1073: Henry Sokolski examines the stalemate over Iran's nuclear program following a previous B2 raid. Sokolski notes Iran refuses IAEA inspections at damaged uranium enrichment sites. He warns of massive plutonium risks at the Bushehr plant and calls for public

S8 Ep1073: Edmund Fitton-Brown and Bill Roggio discuss the instability of the Iran MOU and the upcoming Doha talks. He contrasts this with a balanced Israel-Lebanon framework that aims to marginalize Hezbollah. However, the MOU's vague language allows Iran to claim

S8 Ep1073: Edmund Fitton-Brown critiques the UN's "toxic obsession" with Israel and its lack of evidence regarding genocide claims. Fitton-Brown highlights how China and Russia manipulate the UN system to avoid scrutiny. He notes Israel is uniquely targeted by perma

S8 Ep1073: John Hardie and Bill Roggio report on Russian fuel shortages caused by Ukrainian long-range drone strikes on refineries. Hardie notes this crisis breaks Putin's "social contract" of stability for passivity. Despite economic trouble, Putin maintains maxima

S8 Ep1073: Richard Epstein critiques the Supreme Court's 6-3 decision allowing the President to fire independent commission heads. Epstein argues this undermines the separation of powers between prosecution and adjudication. He warns that "presidential accountabilit

S8 Ep1073: David Daoud and Bill Roggio analyze "pilot zones" as a mechanism to hold Lebanon's feet to the fire regarding Hezbollah's disarmament. Daoud warns that if the US prioritizes quiet with Iran, these zones could become pressure tactics against Israel rather

S8 Ep1073: David Daoud explores the Israel-Lebanon security deal and the IDF's destruction of a major Hezbollah arsenal. Daoud explains the concept of "pilot zones" where the Lebanese Armed Forces must perform demonstrably before territorial expansion. He notes Hezb

S8 Ep1073: Jonathan Sayeh and Bill Roggio investigate reports of damaged historic sites in Iran, suggesting they are Iranian information operations. Schanzer explains that many sites were actually torched by protesters rejecting Islamism. He also notes the morality

S8 Ep1073: Jonathan Sayeh and Bill Roggio analyze Iran's perceived "escalation dominance" in the Strait of Hormuz after the US lifted its naval blockade. Schanzer argues Iran uses the waterway as leverage to derail nuclear talks. Roggio critiques the US admission th

S8 Ep1073: Ernesto Araújo discusses recent democratic victories in Colombia and Peru, characterizing them as a rejection of organized crime and socialism. He criticizes media bias for framing these shifts as a "right-wing drift" while ignoring the deep-seated corrup

S8 Ep1073: Ernesto Araújo addresses the Venezuelan earthquake and the Maduro regime's inability to manage the crisis, calling leadership a "gangster gathering." He sees international aid as a chance for accountability and renewal. He also questions why the US hesita

S8 Ep1073: Hussain Haqqani and Bill Roggio examine regional dynamics, noting the Iranian system remains unchanged despite the Supreme Leader's death. Haqqani describes the US-Iran memorandum as a "damp squib" that ignores fundamental security issues. Roggio suggests

S8 Ep1073: Hussain Haqqani and Bill Roggio discuss the fragile US-Iran ceasefire and a flawed memorandum concerning the Strait of Hormuz. Roggio argues the agreement effectively grants Iran control, while Haqqani notes GCC countries feel excluded and wary of de-esca

S8 Ep1072: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING BILL ROGGIO, HUSAIN HAQQANI, JAANATYN SAYEH, 6-29-26.

S8 Ep1071: Preview for Later Today: Gordon Chang. Gordon Chang discusses China's demographic crisis, predicting a massive population decline by 2100. He highlights youth unemployment reaching 35–40%, which poses severe risks to the nation's social stability and futu

S8 Ep1071: Preview for Later Today: Richard Epstein. Richard Epstein critiques a Supreme Court ruling regarding the President's authority to fire the FTC chairman. He argues against merging prosecutorial and judicial functions, calling such arrangements a "monstrous

S8 Ep1071: Preview for Later Today: Edmund Fitton-Brown. Edmund Fitton-Brown characterizes the Memorandum of Understanding regarding Iran as a "catastrophic" and unstable document. He doubts discussions will resolve underlying issues like nuclear development or the

S8 Ep1071: Preview for Later Today: John Hardie. John Hardie reports on a fuel crisis in occupied Crimea following Ukrainian strikes on Russian logistics. These targeted attacks on fuel trucks and infrastructure disrupt military operations and undermine Russia's abi

S8 Ep1071: Preview for Later Today: David Maxwell. David Maxwell examines North Korean construction in the DMZ, noting South Korean concern. He critiques the U.S. tendency to minimize these incidents to prioritize stability, potentially undermining deterrence to avo

S8 Ep1071: Preview for Later Today: Henry Sokolski. Henry Sokolski warns that Iran's Bushehr nuclear plant poses a proliferation risk. He notes the facility's spent fuel contains plutonium for hundreds of bombs, which could be chemically extracted for weapons relati

S8 Ep1070: The Fragility of the Union and the Dismantling of the Republic. Guests in Londinium, 92 AD: Gaius and Germanicus. Reflecting on the anniversary of Gettysburg, the speakers suggest that the "sacred" unity and mission established by Lincoln and later reinf

S8 Ep1070: The Nation in Arms and the Decline into the Imperial Model. Guests in Londinium, 92 AD: Gaius and Germanicus. The speakers contrast the historical "American way of war" with its modern imperial iteration. From the Civil War through World War II, war was a

S8 Ep1070: The Drone Contest and the Existential War in the East. Guests in Londinium, 92 AD: Gaius and Germanicus. The speakers examine the significant shift in modern warfare embodied by the "drone contest" between Russia and Ukraine. This new form of engagement h

S8 Ep1069: Mortality and the End of the Iliad. Guest: Professor Emily Wilson. The conclusion of the Iliad explores the resolution of Achilles' rage following the death of Hector. Initially, Achilles attempts to prolong Hector's humiliation by dragging his body

S8 Ep1069: The Fall of Patroclus and the Killing Machine. Guest: Professor Emily Wilson. The turning point of the epic occurs when Patroclus enters the battle wearing Achilles' armor to deceive the Trojans and save the Greek ships. Ignoring Achilles' warning to retu

S8 Ep1069: The Gore of Battle and the Sanctity of the Dead. Guest: Professor Emily Wilson. The Iliad features vivid and gory battle scenes that Wilson rendered by consulting with combat veterans to understand the visceral nature of death. Homer emphasizes the specif

S8 Ep1069: The Plot Begins: Rage and Divine Bargains. Guest: Professor Emily Wilson. The plot of the Iliad is ignited by a clash of egos between Agamemnon and Achilles. When Agamemnon is forced to return his own war prize to appease Apollo, he seizes Achilles' ensla

S8 Ep1069: Goddesses, Trophies, and the Bond of Achilles. Guest: Professor Emily Wilson. The gods in the Iliad often represent extreme human instincts, such as Aphrodite representing lust and Ares representing aggression. These deities are sometimes depicted as ridi

S8 Ep1069: Character Pairings and the Pressure of Honor. Guest: Professor Emily Wilson. The Iliad features vivid character relationships that function with the depth of a novel. Helen is portrayed as an ironic thinker and a storyteller who weaves the sufferings of t

S8 Ep1069: The Homeric Question and Epic Tradition. Guest: Professor Emily Wilson. The identity of Homer remains a subject of intense scholarly debate, as the Iliad emerged from a long oral tradition that existed before the return of literacy to Greece in the 8th ce

S8 Ep1069: Mortality and the End of the Iliad. Guest: Professor Emily Wilson. The final stages of the Iliad focus on Achilles' intense grief and the rituals surrounding death. Following the violent funeral pyre for Patroclus, Achilles organizes funeral games, which

S8 Ep1068: The Philippics, a Tragic Alliance, and a Heroic End. Guest Author: Josiah Osgood. In the chaotic aftermath of Caesar's death, Cicero delivered the Philippics to trash Mark Antony's reputation. In an attempt to destroy Antony, Cicero formed an alliance wit

S8 Ep1068: Civil War, the Ides of March, and the Spiritual Godfather. Guest Author: Josiah Osgood. Cicero eventually returned to Rome, but the republic was sliding toward civil war between Caesar and Pompey. Although Cicero tried to remain neutral, he eventually joi

S8 Ep1068: Exile, Humiliation, and the Power of the Tribune. Guest Author: Josiah Osgood. Seeking revenge for the Bona Dea trial, Clodius Pulcher transferred his status from patrician to plebeian to run for the office of tribune. Once elected, he passed legislation

S8 Ep1068: The Bona Dea Scandal and the Creation of a Lifelong Foe. Guest Author: Josiah Osgood. Despite his careful rise to power, Cicero made a significant error during the aftermath of the Catiline conspiracy. He arrested five high-ranking collaborators who had r

S8 Ep1068: The Catiline Conspiracy and the Perils of Invincibility. Guest Author: Josiah Osgood. The rivalry between Cicero and Catiline represented a clash between a "new man" and an established aristocrat. Catiline was a brave soldier from an ancient family who fe

S8 Ep1067: The Defeat of Verres Through Storytelling. Guest Author: Josiah Osgood. In 70 BCE, Cicero prosecuted Verres in a trial that showcased his masterful use of storytelling and emotional appeal. Rather than overwhelming the jury with complex financial data abo

S8 Ep1067: Challenging the Crooked Establishment in Sicily. Guest Author: Josiah Osgood. The Roman Republic's political landscape was heavily influenced by money, a reality exemplified by the case of Verres. Verres was the governor of Sicily, the vital "breadbasket"

S8 Ep1067: The Rise of a New Man and the Trial of Roscius. Guest Author: Josiah Osgood. Marcus Tullius Cicero was born into a non-elite family in 106 BCE, making him a "new man" in the Roman Republic. Rising through the political ranks required winning elections tha

S8 Ep1063: SCHEDULE FOR THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-26-2026.

S8 Ep1062: STREAMING MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURIN JEFF BLISS ND MICHAEL VLAHO, 6--26-26.

S8 Ep1061: Global Trade Dynamics and Strategic Alliances. Guest: Josh Rogin. In the final segment, Rogin provides a broader discussion on the future of international trade. He evaluates how diplomatic shifts and security concerns are reshaping global supply chains,

S8 Ep1061: Trade Rivalry and National Security Suspects. Guest: Josh Rogin. Josh Rogin analyzes the escalating trade rivalry between the United States and China. He focuses on the strategic decision to list certain Chinese companies as national security suspects, ex

S8 Ep1061: Defense Budgeting and National Security Policy. Guest: Peter Huessy. Huessy explores the fiscal and policy challenges associated with national defense. He analyzes how legislative budget decisions affect military readiness and the development of next-gene

S8 Ep1061: Nuclear Deterrence and Strategic Defense Modernization. Guest: Peter Huessy. Strategic analyst Peter Huessy evaluates the status of the U.S. nuclear triad and the importance of strategic deterrence. He discusses the urgent need for modernization in the fa

S8 Ep1061: Workforce Evolution and the Future of Business. Guest: Gene Marks. Marks expands on the evolution of the modern workforce, focusing on remote work and talent retention strategies. He evaluates the impact of government policies on small firms and discusses

S8 Ep1061: Small Business Trends and Economic Adaptation. Guest: Gene Marks. Business expert Gene Marks discusses the current economic trends affecting small businesses, including inflation and labor shortages. He provides practical advice for entrepreneurs on lever

S8 Ep1061: The Administrative State and Constitutional Oversight. Guest: John Yoo. Yoo continues his assessment of federal power, focusing on the role of the administrative state. He provides a critical look at how government agencies operate within the constitution

S8 Ep1061: Executive Authority and National Security Frameworks. Guest: John Yoo. Legal expert John Yoo analyzes the scope of executive power, particularly in relation to national security and foreign policy. He explores the constitutional foundations that grant the

S8 Ep1061: Geopolitical Competition in the New Space Race. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. Zimmerman continues his report by examining the strategic and military implications of the "new space race." He discusses the competition between global powers for dominance in the luna

S8 Ep1061: Advances in Aerospace and Space Exploration. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. Space historian Bob Zimmerman reports on the latest milestones in aerospace technology and NASA's current missions. He highlights the scientific objectives of recent launches and the growi

S8 Ep1061: European Industrial Strategy and Strategic Security. Guest: Lorenzo Fiori. Lorenzo Fiori analyzes the geopolitical and industrial landscape of Europe, with a focus on the strategic importance of the Mediterranean. He discusses the defense industry's role

S8 Ep1061: Washington Political Dynamics and Global Markets. Guest: Jim McTague. Veteran journalist Jim McTague explores the intersection of Washington's political maneuvering and the stability of global financial markets. He provides insights into how legislative a

S8 Ep1061: Judicial Precedent and the Rule of Law. Guest: Richard Epstein. Continuing his legal analysis, Epstein delves into the importance of judicial precedents in maintaining the rule of law. He critiques modern legislative trends and administrative regulations,

S8 Ep1061: Constitutional Interpretation and Individual Liberties. Guest: Richard Epstein. Legal scholar Richard Epstein examines current constitutional debates and the protection of individual liberties. His analysis typically focuses on the tension between governm

S8 Ep1061: California Leadership: Governor Newsom and the First Lady. Guest: Jeff Bliss. This segment focuses on California Governor Gavin Newsom and the role of his wife in his administration. Bliss explores their joint political influence, recent policy decisions,

S8 Ep1061: Urban Crises: Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and the Mayor Contest. Guest: Jeff Bliss. Jeff Bliss reports on the interconnected challenges facing Las Vegas and Los Angeles, specifically focusing on the escalating homelessness crisis. The segment also analyzes th

S8 Ep1060: Preview for Later Today: Jeff Bliss. Investigation into Jennifer Siebel Newsom's documentary funding from state-linked donors. These "behested payments" raise conflict of interest concerns, as her films received millions while the donors were favorably tr

S8 Ep1060: Preview for Later Today: Lorenzo Fiori. Fiori offers wine recommendations for the intense European heat wave. He suggests local white Vermentino or red Bolgheri blends. For those seeking luxury, Sassicaia provides a deep red color and perfume for tropical

S8 Ep1060: Preview for Later Today: Gene Marks. Marks discusses lagging business confidence in Philadelphia compared to the rest of the country. He cites decreased government funding for the city's high concentration of nonprofits and healthcare providers, plus a de

S8 Ep1060: Preview for Later Today: Jim McTague. McTague reports on a surge in local tourism in Lancaster and Cape May. Travelers are choosing "short hops" to avoid expensive air travel and high-priced hotels, leading to packed beaches and full restaurants tonight.

S8 Ep1060: Preview for Later Today: John Yoo. Yoo analyzes the American Revolution as a conservative movement aimed at restoring ancient liberties. He emphasizes the early commitment to three branches of government and the critical, often overlooked principle of civ

S8 Ep1060: Preview for Later Today: Bob Zimmerman. Zimmerman discusses Comet 3I/ATLAS, a 12-billion-year-old interstellar visitor. Its unique isotopes offer scientists a rare look into the early universe's makeup, providing valuable data for galactic archaeology and

S8 Ep1059: SCHEDULE JBS, 6-25-26.

S8 Ep1058: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THEJOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING JIM MCTAGUE, 6-25-2026

S8 Ep1057: The Distortions of Global Wealth Taxes. Guest: Veronique de Rugy. De Rugy discusses how the UK's tax system discourages international athletes from competing at Wimbledon by taxing their worldwide endorsements. She argues that oppressive global tax sch

S8 Ep1057: The Chronic Failures of the Cuban Regime. Guest: Mary Anastasia O'Grady. O'Grady analyzes Cuba's ongoing economic misery and electricity crises, which the government blames on the U.S. embargo. She references the failed 10-million-ton sugar harvest of 197

S8 Ep1057: Political Interference and FBI Counter-Intelligence Failures. Guest: Craig Unger. Unger discusses how investigations into the 2020 election and Rudy Giuliani were allegedly stymied. He notes that Giuliani received payments from Russian oligarchs, potentia

S8 Ep1057: The FBI, Money Laundering, and the Russian Mob. Guest: Craig Unger. Unger interviews whistleblower Johnathan Buma, a former FBI agent, regarding investigations into Donald Trump's ties to Russian intelligence. He claims Trump Tower served as a "laundromat

S8 Ep1057: The Enduring Legacy of the Brontës in Haworth. Guest: Deborah Lutz. Lutz reflects on the Brontës' lasting cultural impact and Haworth's transformation into a major tourist destination. She discusses the critical backlash the novel initially faced for its

S8 Ep1057: The Experimental Haunting of Wuthering Heights. Guest: Deborah Lutz. Lutz explores the Gothic structure and experimental narrative frames of Wuthering Heights. She suggests Heathcliff is an extension of Emily's own fierce imagination. The segment conclude

S8 Ep1057: The Reclusive Genius of Emily Brontë. Guest: Deborah Lutz. Lutz describes Emily Brontë's writing habits in her small bedroom overlooking a graveyard. Despite her reclusive nature and strong-minded personality, she lived a life filled with "joy and content

S8 Ep1057: The Bell Brothers and the Collaborative Creation of Novels. Guest: Deborah Lutz. Lutz explains how the sisters published their poetry under the pseudonyms Currer, Ellis, and Acton Bell to avoid gender bias. Despite selling only two copies, they immediatel

S8 Ep1057: Brussels, Poetry, and the Birth of a Unique Voice. Guest: Deborah Lutz. Lutz discusses Charlotte and Emily's education in Brussels, where Emily honed her concise writing style and piano skills. Following their aunt's death, the sisters returned to Haworth

S8 Ep1057: Imaginary Empires and the Fierce Loyalty of Keeper. Guest: Deborah Lutz. Lutz describes the miniature books the Brontë children created to document their imaginary worlds, Angria and Gondal. The discussion shifts to Emily's domestic life in Haworth, where

S8 Ep1055: The Influence of Aunt Branwell and Early Tragedy. Guest: Deborah Lutz. Lutz highlights Aunt Elizabeth Branwell's sacrifice in moving to Haworth to raise the Brontë children, introducing them to cosmopolitan stories. The segment also details the tragic dea

S8 Ep1055: Emily Brontë's Dark Inspiration from the Family Vault. Guest: Deborah Lutz. Lutz examines the profound impact of Emily Brontë's mother's death and the construction of the family burial vault beneath the church floor. She argues this underground space fuel

S8 Ep1056: Preview for Later Today: Deborah Lutz. Deborah Lutz also explores the writing of Wuthering Heights, noting it took Emily Brontë two years of hard work and revision. While inspired by real houses, the novel's dark, violent nature initially unsettled her si

S8 Ep1056: Preview for Later Today: Deborah Lutz. Deborah Lutz describes the Brontë siblings' childhood in the 1830s, where they created elaborate fantasy worlds like Angria and Gondal using toy soldiers. These imaginative role-playing games served as early rehearsa

S8 Ep1055: Almaz: The Secret Soviet Spy Station in Space. Guest: Anatoly Zak. Zak describes the top-secret Almaz program, military space stations camouflaged under the "Salyut" name for reconnaissance. These "spy satellites with men" took high-resolution photos of N

S8 Ep1055: Structural Fatigue and Leaks on the ISS Zvezda Module. Guest: Anatoly Zak. Zak details the critical role of the Zvezda module, which provides propulsion and life support for the International Space Station. He addresses growing concerns over air leaks and

S8 Ep1055: The Evolving Robotic Battlefield in Ukraine. Guest: Colonel Jeff McCausland. McCausland explains how drones have transformed the war in Ukraine, effectively cutting off Russian supply lines to Crimea. He discusses the massive casualty rates caused by dron

S8 Ep1055: The Fog of Diplomacy in the Strait of Hormuz. Guest: Colonel Jeff McCausland. McCausland discusses a memorandum of understanding with Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz and nuclear weapons. He notes the Iranian requirement for reconstruction aid and the

S8 Ep1054: Mary O'Grady. Mary O'Grady discusses Cuba's persistent electricity crisis, explaining that chronic blackouts result from decades of infrastructure deterioration in the power grid and heavy oil plants, rather than solely being caused by losing Venezuelan o

S8 Ep1054: Anatoly Zak. Anatoly Zak outlines Russia's plans for an independent space station following the ISS deorbiting around 2031. The aging Zvezda module will be retired, while newer modules launched after 2021 will form the new station.R

S8 Ep1054: Jeff McCausland. Jeff McCausland analyzes Israel's military overextension across multiple fronts, including Gaza and Lebanon. He highlights the political challenges facing Prime Minister Netanyahu, who trails in polls following a controversial peace agree

S8 Ep1053: **The Imprisonment of Jimmy Lai and the Future of Hong Kong.** Guest: **Mark Clifford** and **Gordon Chang.** **Jimmy Lai** has spent over 2,000 days in prison, becoming a symbol of resistance against the **Chinese Communist Party**. His fate mirrors that

S8 Ep1052: STREAM MAKING-JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING GORDON CHANG, MARK CLIFFORD, REBECCA GRANT, CHARLES BURTON, 6-24-26.

S8 Ep1051: New Discoveries in Planetary Science and Cosmology. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. The Lucy probe's flyby of asteroid Donaldjohanson revealed a "tumbling peanut" shape, providing insights into its 155-million-year history. Additionally, observations of asymmetric

S8 Ep1051: Private Innovation and Infrastructure Challenges in Space. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. SpaceX successfully defeated legal challenges in Texas while NASA's aging infrastructure faces funding gaps and restrictive laws. Meanwhile, private startups like Catalyst ar

S8 Ep1051: AI in Education and the Necessity of Liberal Learning. Guest: Peter Berkowitz. The rise of AI in academia tempts students to bypass the essential struggle of thinking, leading to intellectual atrophy. Educators argue that liberal education is now more vit

S8 Ep1051: Pope Leo XIV's Warning on Artificial Intelligence. Guest: Peter Berkowitz. In a 43,000-word encyclical, Pope Leo XIV warns that artificial intelligence risks dehumanizing society and excluding God from the human experience. While acknowledging technologic

S8 Ep1051: Mexico's Economic Growth and USMCA Renegotiation Tensions. Guest: Evan Ellis. The Mexican economy saw its sharpest expansion in five years, yet the upcoming USMCA renegotiation creates significant uncertainty. While Mexico attempts to appease the US throu

S8 Ep1051: Political Instability in Bolivia and Regional Alliances. Guest: Evan Ellis. President Rodrigo Paz has survived a 50-day crisis in Bolivia after declaring a state of emergency to clear blockades led by Evo Morales. While regional allies have supported Paz,

S8 Ep1051: Keiko Fujimori and the Return of the Fujimori Dynasty. Guest: Evan Ellis. Keiko Fujimori has likely secured the Peruvian presidency, narrowly defeating her socialist opponent through overseas votes. Her administration faces a deeply divided nation, widesp

S8 Ep1051: Colombia's Presidential Shift Toward Security and Law and Order. Guest: Evan Ellis. Abelardo de la Espriella appears to have won the Colombian presidency, promising a crackdown on insecurity and organized crime modeled after El Salvador's policies. His vi

S8 Ep1051: The Infrastructure and Economic Impact of Data Centers. Guest: Simon Constable. Data centers have become essential infrastructure for AI development, consuming vast amounts of water and electricity. While they provide significant tax revenue for localitie

S8 Ep1051: European Heatwave, Commodity Prices, and UK Political Shifts. Guest: Simon Constable. A "Godzilla El Niño" has triggered record-breaking heatwaves across Europe, impacting energy demand and agriculture. Amid falling Brent crude prices, attention shifts to

S8 Ep1051: Declining Russian Oil Production and the Shadow Fleet. Guest: Michael Bernstam. Russian oil production is falling due to aging fields and a lack of investment, failing to meet OPEC quotas. While Russia utilizes a "shadow fleet" to bypass sanctions, it mus

S8 Ep1051: Ukrainian Drone Attacks Cripple Russian Oil Infrastructure. Guest: Michael Bernstam. Cheap Ukrainian drones have successfully targeted Russian refineries and fuel transport, causing significant shortages of gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuel. This techno

S8 Ep1051: Strengthening Defense Ties Between the Philippines and Canada. Guest: Charles Burton and Gordon Chang. Canada is deepening security cooperation with the Philippines to counter Chinese expansionism in the South China Sea. This partnership includes logistic

S8 Ep1049: SCHEDULE JBS, 6-23-2026.V

S8 Ep1048: The Republican Fissures and Potential Third-Party Movements. Guest: Thaddeus McCotter. The discussion centers on Tucker Carlson's potential departure from the Republican Party over foreign policy disagreements. McCotter suggests this reflects deeper fau

S8 Ep1048: The Strategic Failure of the Iran Memo of Understanding. Guest: Thaddeus McCotter. McCotter analyzes the Memo of Understanding, highlighting unresolved issues like the Strait of Hormuz and the $80 billion war funding request. He argues the administration

S8 Ep1048: Unalienable Rights and the Challenge of Foreign Policy. Guest: Peter Berkowitz. This segment discusses applying founding principles to modern diplomacy, specifically condemning the Chinese Communist Party's crimes against the Uyghurs. Berkowitz argues tha

S8 Ep1048: Recovering the Original Understanding of Unalienable Rights. Guest: Peter Berkowitz. Berkowitz reflects on the 2019 Commission on Unalienable Rights, which sought to ground human rights in the American founding tradition. The commission aimed to counter t

S8 Ep1048: The Crown as a Symbol of British Identity. Guest: Gregory Copley. Amidst political instability, King Charles III is viewed as a dynamic symbol of national dignity and continuity. The segment discusses the King's role in stabilizing the United Kingdom foll

S8 Ep1048: British Political Fragmentation and the Immigration Crisis. Guest: Gregory Copley. Britain has seen seven prime ministers in ten years due to political fragmentation over illegal immigration and European relations. Copley suggests that the Labour Party is

S8 Ep1048: Xi Jinping's Strategic Outreach to North Korea. Guest: Gregory Copley. Xi Jinping's visit to Pyongyang is seen as a move to reassert Chinese influence over North Korea as Kim Jong-un shifts away from communist identity. Kim is positioning himself as an eq

S8 Ep1048: The Geopolitical Chessboard of the Strait of Hormuz. Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley discusses the power struggles within Iran and the strategic card of the Strait of Hormuz. He notes that while the strait is "more or less open," the situation remains in fl

S8 Ep1048: The Turmoil of British Leadership and the Labour Party. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. This segment explores the potential replacement of Keir Starmer with Andy Burnham as UK Prime Minister. Sternberg argues that Labour's struggles go beyond charisma, involving

S8 Ep1048: Kevin Warsh's Reformist Vision for the Federal Reserve. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. Sternberg analyzes Kevin Warsh's first FOMC meeting, noting a shift toward shorter policy statements and the removal of the "dot plot" forecasting tool. Warsh is initiating f

S8 Ep1048: The Impact of Foreign Policy on Domestic Midterms. Guest: Mary Kissel. Kissel examines whether foreign policy influences American voters, noting it is rare compared to "pocketbook" issues like inflation and interest rates. She warns that adversarial regim

S8 Ep1048: Secretary Rubio's Reassurance Mission to Gulf Allies. Guest: Mary Kissel. Secretary of State Marco Rubio travels to the Gulf to reassure the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain of U.S. security commitments following Iranian attacks. Kissel criticizes the administrat

S8 Ep1048: Hezbollah's Role and the Fog of Middle East Diplomacy. Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. The discussion focuses on Hezbollah as a "wholly owned subsidiary" of Iran, with the IRGC directing its activities in Lebanon. Schanzer criticizes the administration for expe

S8 Ep1048: Critiquing the Memo of Understanding with Iran. Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Schanzer describes the newly established Memo of Understanding as a "dog's breakfast" that grants the Iranian regime significant sanctions relief and upfront cash. He argues the agr

S8 Ep1048: The Resilient US Consumer and AI Infrastructure. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. Despite concerns over tariffs and wars, consumer spending remains robust, fueled by record stock market levels and rising low-end wages. Peek argues against AI alarmism, noting that m

S8 Ep1048: Alan Greenspan's Legacy and the New Fed Chair. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. This segment reflects on the passing of Alan Greenspan and the transition to Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve Chair. Peek highlights Warsh's goal to reform data collection and move away f

S8 Ep1047: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING THADDEUS MCCOTTER, 6-23-26.

S8 Ep1046: Preview for Later Today: Peter Berkowitz. Peter Berkowitz discusses human rights at the State Department under Mike Pompeo. He highlights the necessity of universal principles against the CCP's crimes in Xinjiang and the abuse of its own population.

S8 Ep1046: Preview for Later Today: Gregory Copley. Gregory Copley explains why King Charles III will not welcome Prince Harry back into royal duties. The King prioritizes the crown's image as a unifying symbol, protecting it from further family scandals.

S8 Ep1046: Preview for Later Today: Mary Kissel. Mary Kissel warns that adversaries like Iran and China exploit the US political calendar to undermine elections. These regimes use economic pressure and domestic dynamics to favor more "dovish" presidential candidates

S8 Ep1046: Preview for Later Today: Liz Peek. Liz Peek analyzes robust household spending driven by the "wealth effect" of record stock markets. She emphasizes that rising blue-collar wages and job demand are narrowing the divide between various spending classes.

S8 Ep1046: Preview for Later Today: Jonathan Schanzer. Jonathan Schanzer evaluates Iran's restrictive tactics regarding IAEA inspections of its suspect nuclear program. He warns that the administration must not concede to Iranian guidance while the regime continues

S8 Ep1046: Preview for Later Today: Joseph Sternberg. Joseph Sternberg examines the UK Labour Party's hesitation to implement a reform agenda for the NHS and welfare. He argues their ideological ties to the status quo prevent necessary political persuasion.

S8 Ep1040: (3) In the setting of Londinium, 92 AD, Gaius and Germanicus engage in a series of debates comparing the struggles of the ancient Roman Empire to the paradigms of power and exhaustion in the 21st century. Meteorology, Myth, and the Miracles of D-Day. R

S8 Ep1041: (2) In the setting of Londinium, 92 AD, Gaius and Germanicus engage in a series of debates comparing the struggles of the ancient Roman Empire to the paradigms of power and exhaustion in the 21st century. The Tired Emperor and the Limits of Grandeur. The

S8 Ep1040: (1) In the setting of Londinium, 92 AD, Gaius and Germanicus engage in a series of debates comparing the struggles of the ancient Roman Empire to the paradigms of power and exhaustion in the 21st century. Embracing Defeat: Strategic Bribery in the MiddleW

S8 Ep1039: The Shift to Australia: Reimagining the British Empire After the Revolution. Guest: Professor Richard Bell. The loss of the American colonies forced Britain to seek new locations for its convicts, leading to the colonization of Australia. After failed exp

S8 Ep1039: Peggy Shippen: The Mastermind Behind Benedict Arnold's Defection. Guest: Professor Richard Bell. Peggy Shippen, the ambitious wife of Benedict Arnold, is portrayed as a central architect of his betrayal who likely encouraged him to monetize his position b

S8 Ep1039: The Global Strategy of Vergennes and the French Alliance. Guest: Professor Richard Bell. French Foreign Minister Vergennes viewed the American Revolution as a strategic opportunity to weaken the British Empire and avenge losses from the Seven Years' War.

S8 Ep1039: Shattering the Myth of Hessian Invincibility at the Battle of Trenton. Guest: Professor Richard Bell. King George III rented 30,000 German soldiers, known as Hessians, to crush the American insurgency, leading to widespread patriot terror. Washington's vi

S8 Ep1039: The Influence of American Independence on the Irish Revolution. Guest: Professor Richard Bell. The American Revolution signaled that British imperial control was not invincible, inspiring the 1798 Irish revolt by the United Irishmen. Irish-born soldiers w

S8 Ep1039: The Brutality of Frontier Warfare and the Dispossession of Native Nations. Guest: Professor Richard Bell. Molly Brant, a Mohawk woman, navigated the brutal Western frontier, which served as a massive thousand-mile battlefield characterized by "scorched ea

S8 Ep1039: Privateers and the Deadly Reality of British Prison Ships. Guest: Professor Richard Bell. Privateers were government-sanctioned pirates who caused significant economic damage to the British while the Continental Navy struggled. William Russell, a schoolte

S8 Ep1039: Baron von Steuben and the Strategic Overhaul at Valley Forge. Guest: Professor Richard Bell. Baron von Steuben, a Prussian officer, arrived at Valley Forge during the harsh winter of 1777–1778, desperate for a career after being forced out of the Prussian

S8 Ep1038: The "Hungry Summer" and the Stench of Rot. Guest: Patrick Scanlan. Scanlan describes the unique horror of the blight's progression, noting that it struck potatoes both in the ground and in storage. Typically, the summer was the "hungry time" in Ireland

S8 Ep1038: Phytophthora Infestans: The Science of the Blight. Guest: Patrick Scanlan. The discussion turns to the biological cause of the famine: Phytophthora infestans, or the potato blight. Scanlan explains that Irish potatoes were grown from cuttings (clones), an

S8 Ep1038: The Conacre System and the Disincentive for Improvement. Guest: Patrick Scanlan. This segment defines the "conacre" system, a type of high-priced, short-term lease common in Ireland for growing potatoes. Unlike in England, where landlords and tenants ofte

S8 Ep1038: Malthusian Logic and the "Check" of Hunger. Guest: Patrick Scanlan. Scanlan discusses the influence of economist Thomas Robert Malthus on Victorian policy, noting his argument that population growth would inevitably outstrip food production. Malthus viewe

S8 Ep1038: An Oligarchy of Landlords and Forced Enslavement. Guest: Patrick Scanlan. The conversation highlights the staggering concentration of land ownership in the Victorian era, where a mere 4,000 people owned 80% of Ireland. Batchelor characterizes this as a fo

S8 Ep1038: Conquest and the Legacy of the Ulster Plantation. Guest: Patrick Scanlan. Batchelor and Scanlan trace the historical roots of land ownership in Ireland back to the conquests of Elizabeth I and Oliver Cromwell. Scanlan uses Shirley Castle in County Monagha

S8 Ep1038: The Fragile Three-Legged Stool of Irish Agriculture. Guest: Patrick Scanlan. The discussion explores the specific mechanics of 19th-century Irish agriculture, which Scanlan describes as a "three-legged stool" of the potato, the pig, and turf fuel. The pot

S8 Ep1038: The Ghost Story of Skibbereen and Queen Victoria. Guest: Patrick Scanlan. John Batchelor introduces Professor Patrick Scanlan to discuss the Great Famine and its impact on the millions who fled to America. The conversation begins with a "ghost story" invo

S8 Ep1037: Nick Lloyd. Guest Nick Lloyd concludes with the American entry under General John J. Pershing in June 1917. Pershing arrived without an army but adamantly resisted "amalgamation," the Allied demand to fold American troops into French and British units.

S8 Ep1037: Nick Lloyd. Guest Nick Lloyd analyzes the "twinned" horrors of 1916: Verdun and the Somme. He explains Falkenhayn's ruthless strategy at Verdun, which was designed purely to "bleed the French white" through industrial-scale killing. In response, the Briti

S8 Ep1037: Nick Lloyd. Guest Nick Lloyd explores the strategic impasse of late 1915, specifically during the Second Battle of Champagne. He notes that both Joffre and Falkenhayn began to realize that traditional breakthroughs were becoming impossible, yet commanders

S8 Ep1037: Nick Lloyd. Guest Nick Lloyd recounts the high-stakes drama of the 1914 German invasion, focusing on the pivotal Battle of the Marne. He describes the near-destruction of the British Expeditionary Force and the internal conflict between Kitchener and Sir

S8 Ep1037: Nick Lloyd. Guest Nick Lloyd examines the British entry into the war, characterizing it as a gradual process hampered by friction between key leaders like Prime Minister Asquith, Lord Kitchener, and Sir John French. Initially, the British sent a tiny expe

S8 Ep1037: Nick Lloyd. Guest Nick Lloyd discusses the French defense, starting with General Joseph Joffre, a steady "engineer" who saved France at the Marne by maintaining his nerve when his German counterpart collapsed. The conversation explores the intricate relat

S8 Ep1037: Nick Lloyd. Guest Nick Lloyd delves into the German high command, highlighting the psychological burden on Helmuth von Moltke the Younger, who felt inadequate compared to his famous uncle. Moltke's lack of nerve led him to fatally alter the Schlieffen Pla

S8 Ep1037: Nick Lloyd. Guest Nick Lloyd discusses his ambition to provide a comprehensive narrative of the Western Front, emphasizing it as a massive coalition war involving multiple empires. He explains his focus on the operational level of senior commanders, aimin

S8 Ep1036: Adrian Wooldridge concludes by recommending a "remoralization" of meritocracy, where those with talent view their abilities as a public duty rather than just a source of personal reward. He warns against abandoning objective testing (like the SAT), arg

S8 Ep1036: Adrian Wooldridge analyzes the populist revolt against meritocracy, seen in Brexit and the election of Donald Trump. Populists argue that "experts" lack common sense and have become an arrogant, self-satisfied elite. Critics like Christopher Lasch contend

S8 Ep1036: Adrian Wooldridge revisits the historical origins of hierarchy, noting that for most of human history, family connections and dynasties were the organizing principles of society. The concept of the Great Chain of Being suggested that everyone had a divine

S8 Ep1036: Adrian Wooldridge examines the mid-20th-century backlash against meritocracy. Michael Young, who coined the term, warned that a "perfect" meritocracy would create an intolerable society where the successful feel superior and the unsuccessful have no socia

S8 Ep1036: Adrian Wooldridge highlights the historical blindness toward women's talent among 19th-century reformers who excluded them from competitive examinations. However, the meritocratic logic of objective measurement eventually provided women with the tools to

S8 Ep1036: Adrian Wooldridge discusses how the 19th-century search for talent was shaped by utilitarianism and liberal reforms. Reformers like John Stuart Mill remained suspicious of the masses, seeking to replace the landed aristocracy with an "aristocracy of talen

S8 Ep1036: Adrian Wooldridge notes that while pre-modern governance relied on patronage and nepotism, kings often appointed "lowly-born men" of extraordinary ability, like Thomas Cromwell, to ensure stability. Napoleon emerged as a transitional figure, embodying a "

S8 Ep1036: Adrian Wooldridge explains that for most of history, society was defined by a hierarchical presumption where individuals were born into "proper stations." This Great Chain of Being posited that social and natural orders were divinely ordained; disrupting

S8 Ep1035: Molly Beer. Guest Molly Beer covers Angelica's return to America for Washington's inauguration, where she found political reality more complicated than her romanticized memories. After returning permanently in 1797, she faced immense personal loss, includ

S8 Ep1035: Molly Beer. Guest Molly Beer follows the family to Europe, where John Carter reclaims his identity as John Barker Church. Settling in London's Mayfair, Angelica navigated high society while remaining a fierce American patriot. Beer highlights Angelica's r

S8 Ep1035: Molly Beer. Guest Molly Beer explores Angelica's resilience during the Revolutionary War, noting she rejoined the army at Yorktown weeks after childbirth. Beer details Alexander Hamilton's marriage to her sister Elizabeth, explaining how Angelica helped t

S8 Ep1035: Molly Beer. Guest Molly Beer introduces Angelica Schuyler, born in 1755 to a powerful Dutch family in Albany. Beer discusses "The Pastures," the Schuyler mansion designed and managed by Angelica's mother, Catherine. Unlike most 18th-century women, Angelic

S8 Ep1034: SCHEDULE JBS 6-19-2026.

S8 Ep1033: STREAMING MAKING OF JBS, FEATURING JEFF BLISS AND MICHAEL VLAHOS, 6-19, 2026.R

S8 Ep1032: CISA's Mission to Protect Critical Infrastructure. Guest: Francis Rose. Acting Director Nick Anderson explains CISA's role as a vital clearinghouse for cyber threat information across federal and private sectors. Since 85% of critical infrastructure i

S8 Ep1032: A Vision for Governance Reform in Canada. Guest: Conrad Black. Biographer Conrad Black and billionaire Stephen Jarislowsky have proposed recommendations to streamline Canadian governance by reducing duplicated bureaucracy. They argue that Canada's public

S8 Ep1032: The Rise of Andy Burnham in UK Politics. Guest: Anatol Lieven. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is emerging as a formidable potential successor to Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Though Burnham enjoys strong regional support, he faces daunting national

S8 Ep1032: Diplomatic Strains and Escalation Risks in Ukraine. Guest: Anatol Lieven. European leaders are divided over initiating direct negotiations with Russia as the war remains stuck on the ground. While some advocate for offering Putin a "golden bridgeDiplomati

S8 Ep1032: The Literary Legacy and Final Days of the Alcotts. Guest: Bruce Nichols. Following the success of Little Women, Alcott resisted fan demands for her protagonist to marry Laurie, choosing an independent path. As the circle aged, both Emerson and Bronson Alc

S8 Ep1032: The Struggles and Triumphs of Louisa May Alcott. Guest: Bruce Nichols. Louisa May Alcott supported her family because her father, Bronson Alcott, failed to earn a consistent living. She served as a Civil War nurse, dealing with horrific casualties before

S8 Ep1032: Thoreau's Performative Solitude at Walden Pond. Guest: Bruce Nichols. Henry David Thoreau built his famous cabin on land owned by Ralph Waldo Emerson. Contrary to his image as a total hermit, Thoreau was quite social, often walking into town for fresh-coo

S8 Ep1032: Literary Giants of the New England Renaissance. Guest: Bruce Nichols. This segment explores the intense relationship between Hawthorne and Melville, who dedicated Moby Dick to Hawthorne. While Ralph Waldo Emerson often criticized their dark worldviews, th

S8 Ep1032: Mars Discoveries and Cosmological Mysteries. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. The discovery of galaxies devoid of dark matter is challenging fundamental astronomical theories. On Mars, the Curiosity rover has reached smooth ground after five years of rocky terrain.

S8 Ep1032: SpaceX's Aggressive Launch Schedule and Innovation. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. Gwynne Shotwell indicates that SpaceX's Starship may begin operational flights and orbital refueling tests by year's end. The company is also demolishing older facilities at Vandenb

S8 Ep1032: Italian Defense Pressures and the Summer Heatwave. Guest: Lorenzo Fiori. Italy's government is balancing NATO's demands for increased military spending against rising energy costs. Simultaneously, a record-breaking heatwave reaching 104°F in Milan is stra

S8 Ep1032: Economic Resilience in D.C. and Lancaster County. Guest: Jim McTague. A drop in gasoline prices has boosted consumer spending at retail stores and supermarkets. While D.C. remains popular with tourists, employers are struggling to find workers with specia

S8 Ep1032: Supreme Court Rulings on Gun Rights and Drug Use. Guest: Richard Epstein. In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court ruled that marijuana use alone does not justify the categorical stripping of a citizen's Second Amendment rights. Epstein critiques the co

S8 Ep1032: Critique of Middle East Ceasefire Strategy. Guest: Richard Epstein. Epstein argues that recurring ceasefire declarations are merely strategic devices for rearmament rather than genuine steps toward peace. He criticizes current negotiation styles for alien

S8 Ep1032: Ethics Investigations into the Newsom Administration. Guest: Jeff Bliss. Governor Gavin Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, face investigations regarding millions in "behested payments" from entities like PG&E to her media company. While Newsom d

S8 Ep1032: Portland's Business Struggles and Las Vegas's Growth. Guest: Jeff Bliss. High taxes and progressive policies in Portland are driving a corporate exodus, including Under Armour, as business districts empty. Conversely, Las Vegas is thriving, highlighted by

S8 Ep1031: Conrad Black. Conrad Black discusses the excessive size of Canada's government relative to its population. He argues that overlapping jurisdictions lead to a top-heavy, expensive bureaucracy and recommends reducing the public service through attrition.Con

S8 Ep1031: Jeff Bliss. Jeff Bliss reports on the opening of a massive four-story In-N-Out Burger on the Las Vegas strip. He highlights the brand's commitment to freshness, its growing popularity, and the extreme southwest heat.

S8 Ep1030: Lorenzo Fiori. Lorenzo Fiori describes a record-breaking heat wave in Milan reaching 104 degrees. He expresses concern over the lack of air conditioning, tropical night temperatures, and potential drought impacts on Italian agriculture this summer.

S8 Ep1030: Jim McTague. Jim McTague analyzes Lancaster County's economy, noting a surge in tourism at local amusement parks. He highlights how falling gasoline prices have increased disposable income, leading to more aggressive consumer spending at retailers.

S8 Ep1030: Bruce Nichols. Biographer Bruce Nichols explores the complex literary relationship between Herman Melville and Nathaniel Hawthorne. He discusses Melville's development of Moby Dick, their contrasting writing styles, and the mutual influence found in their

S8 Ep1030: Bob Zimmerman. Bob Zimmerman introduces Dawn Aerospace, a company developing reusable suborbital space planes. Having raised $25 million, they aim to challenge industry giants like Blue Origin by making space tourism more routine and cost-effective.

S8 Ep1023: Simon Constable discusses the upcoming by-election in Makerfield, where Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham challenges Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership. The segment explores internal Labour Party power struggles and the physical process of UK vo

S8 Ep1023: Simon Constable and John Batchelor discuss extreme summer heat in France and the potential for a "super El Niño." They analyze shifting commodity prices, noting significant drops in Brent crude, electricity, and precious metals, while rising copper prices

S8 Ep1022: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEaTURING CHANG, BOKHARI, FANELL, BURTON, 6-17-2026

S8 Ep1021: Preview for Later Today: Charles Burton discusses Canadian imports of Chinese EVs, highlighting concerns that components like aluminum and lithium involve forced labor from Tibet, violating prohibitions against products made with slave labor under a probl

S8 Ep1021: Preview for Later Today: Henry Sokolski explores South Korea's internal debate over developing its own nuclear weapons to counter Northern threats. He emphasizes that maintaining a strong US alliance is safer than the "schizophrenic" prospect of going nuc

S8 Ep1021: Preview for Later Today: Scott Winship refutes claims of worsening income inequality, suggesting the middle class is actually ascending to the upper-middle class. He analyzes wealth distribution, noting that growth among working-age Americans is more bala

S8 Ep1021: Preview for Later Today: Bob Zimmerman evaluates the space race between SpaceX and Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin. He highlights Blue Origin's struggle to match Starlink's satellite constellation and identifies emerging competitors like Rocket Lab in the growin

S8 Ep1021: Preview for Later Today: Josh Blackman examines the Supreme Court case Kennedy v. Bremerton, where a football coach's public prayer was challenged. The court ruled the action wasn't coercive, ultimately abandoning the long-standing "Lemon test" for religi

S8 Ep1021: Preview for Later Today: Retired Intelligence Officer Jim Fanell analyzes China's maritime saturation of the Scarborough Shoal. While the Philippines remains militarily outmatched, they are successfully using "cognitive warfare" and international media to

S8 Ep1020: SCHEDULE OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-16-2026.

S8 Ep1019: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING THADDEUS MCCOTTER, 6-16-2026.

S8 Ep1018: Thaddeus McCotter joins John Batchelor to discuss the lack of clarity in the emerging US-Iran memo, specifically regarding ballistic missiles and human rights. He questions the effectiveness of a "60-day ceasefire" strategy and calls for Congressional ove

S8 Ep1018: Thaddeus McCotter reflects on the 2009 Green Movement, criticizing the Obama administration for parlaying with "butchers" rather than supporting protesters. He warns that the current Trump administration faces the same ideological enemy. McCotter expresse

S8 Ep1018: Andrea Stricker explains the "numbingly complicated" nature of Iran's nuclear program, which utilizes research centers and universities to hide sensitive work. She advocates for a comprehensive agreement requiring full Iranian disclosure and intrusive ins

S8 Ep1018: Andrea Stricker discusses the IAEA's near-total loss of access to Iranian nuclear sites. She details how previous US and Israeli strikes decimated enrichment capabilities, yet monitoring remains blind. Stricker emphasizes the difficulty of verifying the l

S8 Ep1018: Gregory Copley explains the Trooping the Colour ceremony, a display of British military discipline celebrating the sovereign's birthday. He highlights King Charles III handing visible authority to Prince William during this year's event. Copley notes the

S8 Ep1018: Gregory Copley critiques the upcoming US-Iran memo, characterizing it as a "rinse and repeat" cycle rather than a true victory. He argues that by failing to remove the Islamic regime, the US preserves a weakened but hostile power. Copley also notes shifti

S8 Ep1018: Gregory Copley examines the Makerfield by-election, where Andy Burnham seeks to return to Parliament to challenge Keir Starmer's leadership. He explains how third parties like Reform and Restore Britain could split the vote. Copley notes Burnham's potenti

S8 Ep1018: Gregory Copley addresses the crisis in the UK Ministry of Defense, marked by high-level resignations and budget cuts. He describes the Royal Marines' seizure of a Russian "shadow fleet" tanker and a Russian warship firing warning shots at a yacht. Copley

S8 Ep1018: Jonathan Schanzer discusses the roles of Syria, Qatar, and Turkey in regional conflicts. He questions the reliability of the Syrian regime to tame Hezbollah, suggesting a "neo-Ottoman" Turkish agenda. Regarding Gaza, he notes Hamas is tactically contained

S8 Ep1018: Jonathan Schanzer critiques the rumored US-Iran deal, warning that it offers significant sanctions relief without securing nuclear concessions. He argues that the plan fails to address ballistic missiles or proxies like Hezbollah. Schanzer expresses conce

S8 Ep1018: Joseph Sternberg reports on the turmoil within Britain's Labour Party, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces internal challenges. He discusses potential successor Andy Burnham's by-election bid and Nigel Farage's Reform Party influence. Sternberg highlight

S8 Ep1018: Joseph Sternberg explains the impending depletion of the Social Security Trust Fund, labeling it an accounting gimmick. He clarifies that the program is a pay-as-you-go system where current workers fund retirees. Sternberg discusses the political difficul

S8 Ep1018: Professor John Yoo applies the Thucydides Trap to the current conflict between the US and Iran's "concert of autocracies." He notes that while some view Iran as a rising power, it functions more like a small, oppressive elite. Yoo emphasizes that the US f

S8 Ep1018: Professor John Yoo critiques the "Thucydides Trap" analogy used by Xi Jinping to describe US-China tensions. He argues China resembles militaristic Sparta, while the US represents the democratic, commercial Athens. Yoo warns that China's declining populat

S8 Ep1018: Liz Peek analyzes Kevin Warsh's appointment to the Federal Reserve and his optimistic view of AI-driven productivity. She predicts the Fed will hold interest rates steady despite inflation, noting that falling oil prices from a potential Iran deal could e

S8 Ep1018: Liz Peek discusses Elon Musk's potential trillionaire status, highlighting his massive contributions through SpaceX and Tesla. She defends his wealth creation as a product of capitalist grit and innovation, contrasting it with socialist critiques. Peek em

S8 Ep1017: Preview for Later Today: Thaddeus McCotter and John Batchelor discuss the uncertainties of the Trump administration's Iran policy, questioning the efficacy of military force, the potential for a controversial US sovereign wealth fund, and the regime's con

S8 Ep1017: Preview for Later Today: Liz Peek explains why Europe lacks major tech breakthroughs like SpaceX or AI, citing high energy costs driven by influential green parties and a transition to uncompetitive renewable energy that deters modern data centers.

S8 Ep1017: Preview for Later Today: Jonathan Schanzer warns against trusting Qatar, despite its frequent role as a negotiator for peace with groups like Hamas, the Taliban, and Iran, arguing the Gulf nation remains a highly problematic and untrustworthy actor.

S8 Ep1017: Preview for Later Today: Joseph Sternberg discusses Social Security's financial insolvency, noting that past surpluses were spent by politicians. He critiques the rejection of private accounts and warns that a government-run trust fund would create proble

S8 Ep1017: Preview for Later Today: Andrea Stricker highlights the risks of nuclear facilities in combat zones, detailing attacks near Iran's Bushehr plant and Iran's own projectiles hitting the UAE's reactor, exposing regional hypocrisy regarding nuclear safety and

S8 Ep1017: Preview for Later Today: Professor John Yoo explores the Peloponnesian War between Sparta and Athens, drawing parallels between Pericles' naval strategy and Churchill's WWII tactics, while reflecting on the ultimate disappearance of Sparta versus the endu

S8 Ep1008: H.W. Brands explains how, following the massacre in Poland, Roosevelt sought to modify the Neutrality Acts—laws passed in the mid-1930s specifically to prevent the types of economic and travel entanglements that had drawn the U.S. into World War I. Roosev

S8 Ep1008: H.W. Brands describes how, by the summer of 1939, the destruction of Poland by German and Soviet forces confirmed that war was imminent, prompting Roosevelt to invoke neutrality laws as required by Congress. Despite his desire for privacy, Lindbergh began

S8 Ep1008: H.W. Brands describes how in April 1939, Charles Lindbergh returned to the United States as a world-famous celebrity, greeted by "a football team of flashbulbs popping" as he disembarked a transatlantic steamer. Lindbergh had remained in the global spotli

S8 Ep1000: Preview for Later Today: Jim McTague reports on a "gas bonus" in Lancaster County, where fuel prices have plunged below Costco levels. However, despite having extra money, consumers remain hesitant to shop, creating a local economic mystery.

S8 Ep1000: Preview for Later Today: Mary Anastasia O'Grady discusses the necessity of a free press and political space for fair elections in Venezuela. She notes that the organized opposition is ready to mobilize if the regime's suppression is removed.

S8 Ep1000: Preview for Later Today: Francis Rose explores the Army's use of "gamification" to train servicemen for integration with artificial intelligence. This strategy utilizes skills from commercial gaming to help soldiers "fight like they train" with AI systems

S8 Ep999: SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-11-26. 1900 BRUSSELS

S8 Ep998: STREAMING MAKING JBS, FEATURING EVAN ELLIS, 6-11-26.

S8 Ep997: Evan Ellis discusses how a banking scandal involving Flavio Bolsonaro has impacted Brazilian polls, giving Lula da Silva a temporary lead. Meanwhile, El Salvador's President Bukele remains highly popular due to a dramatic security transformation that ha

S8 Ep997: Evan Ellis notes how public frustration with rising crime and President Petro's "total peace" plan has fueled the rise of hardline political candidates in Colombia. As the country grapples with internal conflict, many Colombians seek a "strong hand" to re

S8 Ep997: Evan Ellis highlights a razor-thin election in Peru between Keiko Fujimori and Roberto Sanchez, exposing deep national divisions over corruption and wealth distribution. The outcome is geopolitically significant, as China already maintains a massive footh

S8 Ep997: Evan Ellis discusses Bolivia's severe instability as blockades led by supporters of Evo Morales disrupt the capital's supply of food and oxygen. Morales is described as a dangerous figure using cocaine-related funds to destabilize the democratically elect

S8 Ep997: Mickey Trescott emphasizes consuming nutrient-dense foods like bone broth and fatty fish to resolve inflammation and support the microbiome. During reintroduction, patients identify specific food "villains" by monitoring symptom flare-ups, ultimately empo

S8 Ep997: Mickey Trescott introduces a modified autoimmune protocol that includes rice and coffee, making it more accessible and affordable than the core version. A successful transition requires tracking baseline symptoms and preparing the kitchen to handle the nu

S8 Ep997: Mickey Trescott introduces a modified autoimmune protocol that includes rice and coffee, making it more accessible and affordable than the core version. A successful transition requires tracking baseline symptoms and preparing the kitchen to handle the nu

S8 Ep997: Mickey Trescott explains that autoimmune diseases occur when the body's immune system attacks its own organs, a condition affecting a high percentage of women. The protocol is a diet and lifestyle experiment designed to help individuals identify personal

S8 Ep997: Andrea Ferrara proposes building a 40-meter telescope on the lunar surface to succeed the James Webb Space Telescope. This moon-based facility would avoid atmospheric interference, allowing scientists to directly detect the universe's first stars and reso

S8 Ep997: Andrea Ferrara describes using the James Webb Space Telescope to investigate a mysterious red light source initially thought to be the most distant galaxy. By observing luminosity changes over two years, he determined it is likely a rare pair-instability

S8 Ep997: Jack Burnham examines the Pentagon's 1260H list, which identifies Chinese companies allegedly assisting the PRC's military-industrial base, signaling increased regulatory scrutiny for these entities. Burnham recommends streamlining government lists to pre

S8 Ep997: Jack Burnham discusses China and North Korea's strategic alignment, noting that Xi Jinping's festive visit to Pyongyang signals China's willingness to de-emphasize denuclearization in favor of regional stability and strategic balancing against the US. Nor

S8 Ep997: Cliff May argues that Qatar utilizes its vast energy wealth to buy influence through professional sports, media platforms like Al Jazeera, and university campuses. He argues these investments allow the state to manipulate Western academic discourse and he

S8 Ep997: Leila Philip discusses the ancient Algonquin legend of Great Beaver, an environmental parable about resource hoarding and the creation of the Connecticut River Valley. The story reflects traditional ecological knowledge, emphasizing the beaver's immense p

S8 Ep997: Anatol Lieven examines rising anti-immigrant tensions in the United Kingdom, where violent demonstrations in Belfast and England highlight growing public anger toward sudden demographic changes and crimes allegedly committed by asylum seekers. Lieven sugg

S8 Ep997: Anatol Lieven discusses NATO's top US commander, General Grynkewich, who states Russia is not looking for conflict despite European concerns about US military withdrawals. Lieven agrees, noting that the Russian army is bogged down in Ukraine, making a del

S8 Ep996: Preview for Later Today: Jack Burnham discusses Kim Jong-un's rise from pandemic-era economic failure to a confident global leader. A modernized military and support from Russia and China have strengthened his position relative to Xi Jinping.

S8 Ep996: Preview for Later Today: Evan Ellis examines Peru's contested election between Roberto Sanchez and Fujimori. Sanchez faces scrutiny over alleged ties to Cuban puppet masters and potential shifts toward corrupt Chinese interests regarding vital mineral res

S8 Ep996: Preview for Later Today: Anatol Lieven highlights escalating violence in Northern Ireland and England aimed at immigrants. Public anger stems from high-profile crimes committed by asylum seekers, impacting social stability in once-homogeneous local commun

S8 Ep996: Preview for Later Today: Cliff May investigates Qatar's massive influence campaign within American universities and media. He highlights how Al Jazeera bypasses regulations to feed biased information into open-source AI platforms and internet search resul

S8 Ep996: Preview for Later Today: Leila Philip explores the Algonquin legend of the Great Beaver, explaining North America's river geography. The story emphasizes indigenous perspectives on environmental stewardship and the vital role beavers play in maintaining e

S8 Ep996: Preview for Later Today: Mickey Trescott presents an autoimmune protocol designed to help patients identify food triggers through a structured trial period. This patient-led approach addresses lifelong afflictions where standard medical treatments often f

S8 Ep995: SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-10-26.

S8 Ep994: STREAMING MAKING JBS, FEATURING GIORDON CHANG, JIM HOLMES, GREG SCARLATOIU, VICTORIA COATES, 6-1-26.

S8 Ep993: Bob Zimmerman highlights discoveries by the James Webb Space Telescope, including a black hole 6 billion times the mass of the sun located 10 billion light-years away. He also describes a "flickering" quasar from the early universe that challenges cur

S8 Ep993: Bob Zimmerman tracks the transition to commercial space, noting that private companies like Vast are leading the race to build stations to replace the aging ISS. He discusses Amazon's struggle to launch its satellite constellation due to rocket delays, co

S8 Ep993: Simon Constable discusses the declining popularity of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the potential rise of challengers like Andy Burnham. He highlights a dramatic shift in British public opinion, with polling by Lord Ashcroft showing that a vast major

S8 Ep993: Simon Constable reports from France on falling global commodity prices for food and energy due to supply meeting demand. He then shifts to the immigration crisis in Britain, where violent incidents in Belfast and Southampton have fueled public outrage. Co

S8 Ep993: Tal Fortgang discusses the "Scalian revolution" that shifted the Supreme Court toward judicial restraint. He notes that while Scalia faced a hostile press and "nasty" internal criticism from colleagues like Harry Blackmun, his ideas eventually prevailed.

S8 Ep993: Tal Fortgang explores Justice Scalia's legal philosophy through a biography by James Rosen, focusing on Scalia's dissent in Lee v. Weisman regarding religious benedictions at public graduations. Fortgang explains how Scalia popularized "originalism" and "

S8 Ep993: Michael Bernstam reveals that China has significantly reduced its oil imports by nearly half by drawing on massive strategic reserves of 1.4 billion barrels and increasing electric vehicle adoption. Simultaneously, the U.S. has reached record domestic oil

S8 Ep993: Michael Bernstam discusses a looming glut of liquefied natural gas driven by record U.S. shale production, which is stabilizing energy prices in Europe. Regarding Russia, he explains that while crude exports continue, Ukrainian drone strikes on refineries

S8 Ep993: Joel Kotkin disputes the label of "fascist" for the MAGA movement, noting it lacks the youth-driven, paramilitary organization characteristic of movements led by Mussolini or Hitler. He describes MAGA as a chaotic coalition of various interest groups held

S8 Ep993: Joel Kotkin examines the definition of fascism, arguing that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is not a fascist because she respects democratic norms. He identifies China's government-led economy as the closest modern parallel to historical fascism. K

S8 Ep993: Natalie Ecanow explains that Qatari wealth is controlled by the Al-Thani autocracy, whose values often conflict with U.S. interests, such as their support for Hamas and the Taliban. She highlights the lack of transparency in Qatari funding, citing a lawsu

S8 Ep993: Natalie Ecanow details Qatar's massive $400 billion investment footprint in the United States, including high-profile real estate like New York's Park Lane Hotel and significant orders for Boeing aircraft. She argues these investments are not merely finan

S8 Ep993: Victoria Coates addresses the Pentagon's decision to list major Chinese companies like BYD and Alibaba as security risks due to their military ties. She argues for clear country-of-origin labeling on products to inform American consumers. Furthermore, Coa

S8 Ep993: Victoria Coates highlights Taiwan's indispensable role in the global AI revolution through TSMC's high-end chip production, which the U.S. and China currently cannot replicate. She emphasizes that Taiwan's engineering "super workers" are a state secret. C

S8 Ep993: Professor Jim Holmes discusses the naval balance between the U.S. and China, suggesting the PLA Navy aims for six aircraft carriers to project power in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean. While China has made strides in naval aviation without the heavy

S8 Ep992: Greg Scarlatoiu analyzes Xi Jinping's visit to Pyongyang, noting that Kim Jong-un now views himself as a strategic equal to Xi and Putin. Despite sanctions, North Korea's economy shows a facade of growth fueled by billions made exporting artillery and spe

S8 Ep991: FORMAT Michael Bernstam Michael Bernstam explains how China’s massive oil reserves and 70% electric vehicle adoption have drastically reduced their oil imports. This shift lowers global prices, benefiting developing nations while matching the entire Weste

S8 Ep991: Natalie Ecanow Natalie Ecanow tracks $400 billion in Qatari investments across US sectors. Managed by the autocratic Al Thani family, these funds often conflict with American interests, including the regime's public support for leaders of Hamas.

S8 Ep991: Jim Holmes Professor Jim Holmes discusses the US Navy's technological and human superiority over Chinese weaponry during recent conflicts. Despite intense maneuvers and near misses, US carrier groups have successfully defended themselves against adversari

S8 Ep991: Joel Kotkin Joel Kotkin examines AI's economic impact, noting that AI companies operate with small staffs and high capital. This trend leads to significant growth for firms but widespread layoffs for well-educated professionals in other industries.

S8 Ep990: Greg Scarlatoiu Greg Scarlatoiu analyzes the meeting between Xi Jinping and Kim Jong Un. He highlights the distinct leadership style of the current North Korean leader compared to his predecessors, marking a significant and generational shift.

S8 Ep990: Bob Zimmerman Bob Zimmerman ranks VAST as the leader in the private space station race. Unlike government-dependent firms, VAST innovates independently, recently securing contracts with France and the Czech Republic for future orbital missions.

S8 Ep989: SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-9-2026. JUNE 1957

S8 Ep988: STREAMING THE MAKING OF JBS, FEATURING THADDEUS MCCOTTER, 6-9-2026. 1901 CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

S8 Ep987: Peter Huessy details China's growing non-strategic nuclear arsenal and dual-use delivery systems. He explains that Beijing believes it can control escalation to keep the US out of the Western Pacific. Huessy emphasizes that NATO lacks a comparable respon

S8 Ep987: Peter Huessy discusses US plans to deploy nuclear-capable F-35s in Europe to counter Russian threats. He explains Russia's "escalate to win" doctrine involving low-yield battlefield nukes for "surgical" strikes. Huessy warns that Russia possesses thousand

S8 Ep987: Josh Blackman examines the Atkins v. Virginia ruling, which prohibits executing individuals with low IQs. He highlights the subjectivity of IQ tests and the lack of constitutional basis for such standards. Blackman notes that defendants now have incentive

S8 Ep987: Josh Blackman traces the modern history of the death penalty from the 1972 Furman case to 1976's Gregg v. Georgia. He critiques the "evolving standards of decency" doctrine used by the Warren Court, arguing it reflects the views of elites rather than the

S8 Ep987: Gregory Copley discusses Prince Harry's desire to return to Britain due to financial depletion. He notes the lack of trust from King Charles and Prince William, and the dissipated public affection for the Duke. Copley also references his new book on the a

S8 Ep987: Gregory Copley reports on a rare Ebola outbreak and jihadi threats in Central Africa. He notes that local governments fail to fund necessary healthcare infrastructure, relying instead on outside aid. Additionally, Copley details the ongoing Ethiopian civi

S8 Ep987: Gregory Copley reviews the historical failure of the Jimmy Carter administration during the Iranian hostage crisis. He explains that President Trump refuses to be "Jimmy Carter," instead seeking the total collapse of the IRGC leadership. Copley argues tha

S8 Ep987: Gregory Copley analyzes the downing of a US helicopter off Oman, noting strategic differences between American and Israeli objectives. While the US seeks a deal, Israel aims for regime change. Copley highlights the weakened state of the IRGC leadership an

S8 Ep987: Joseph Sternberg describes the UK Labour Party's internal strife as it debates returning to Blairite centrism versus far-left socialism. He critiques Keir Starmer's lack of decisive leadership during an anemic economic period. Meanwhile, Nigel Farage's Re

S8 Ep987: Joseph Sternberg explains China's reform of the Hukou residency system, which has limited internal migration since the 1950s. By granting migrants access to urban social services like healthcare and education, Beijing aims to reduce high household saving

S8 Ep987: Mary Kissel highlights a regional trend toward liberty and transparency in the Americas, citing recent elections in Peru, Chile, and Argentina. She credits voters for rejecting failed leftist policies and discusses figures like Nayib Bukele and Javier Mil

S8 Ep987: Mary Kissel addresses the Iranian standoff, emphasizing the threat of "impregnable" nuclear facilities at Pickaxe Mountain. She notes Iran uses the Strait of Hormuz as leverage. Additionally, Kissel praises Ukraine's innovative drone technology for creati

S8 Ep987: Jonathan Schanzer discusses the Israeli offensive in Lebanon, noting that Iran's influence is shrinking. He highlights Qatar's role as a state sponsor of terrorism that buys American influence through massive investments, totaling hundreds of billions. Sc

S8 Ep987: Jonathan Schanzer analyzes the downing of a US Army helicopter by Iran near the Strait of Hormuz. He notes Trump's focus on a potential economic siege over expensive military munitions. Schanzer discusses rumors of IRGC leadership decapitation by Israel a

S8 Ep987: Liz Peek examines the influence of the Democratic Socialists of America in blue cities like Seattle and Los Angeles. She argues establishment Democrats fail to counter radical socialist propaganda. Concerns are raised over candidates promoting the aboliti

S8 Ep987: Liz Peek discusses SpaceX's $1.78 trillion IPO, questioning whether valuations for AI companies like OpenAI and Anthropic are sustainable. She notes that Starlink's profitability supports Elon Musk's moonshots. Despite inflation concerns, strong domestic

S8 Ep986: Preview for Later Today: Bob Zimmerman critiques NASA's expensive X-59 project, noting private firm Boom Supersonic achieved quiet supersonic flight cheaper and faster, highlighting NASA's inefficiency compared to private enterprise's superior speed and c

S8 Ep986: Preview for Later Today: Gregory Copley discusses Prince Harry's alienation, asserting Harry destroyed his own career and seeks a return primarily for financial support, while facing reluctance from a crown and government critical of his inappropriate beh

S8 Ep986: Preview for Later Today: Peter Huessy explores a dangerous divergence in nuclear strategy, explaining that while the U.S. views tactical weapons as deterrents, Russia and China increasingly see them as offensive tools to enhance and support aggression.

S8 Ep986: Preview for Later Today: Liz Peek warns that rising oil prices, fueled by Middle East tensions, are infiltrating sectors like transportation and chemicals, likely causing a significant Consumer Price Index spike and complicating efforts to reach inflation

S8 Ep986: Preview for Later Today: Jonathan Schanzer describes Qatar as both "arsonist and firefighter," funding terrorist groups like Hamas while positioning itself as an indispensable mediator for the U.S., despite evidence of massive illicit spending and bribery

S8 Ep986: Preview for Later Today: Joseph Sternberg analyzes China's policy shift allowing internal migrants to access urban social services, an effort by Beijing to maintain social stability and address income inequality as the nation's economic growth begins slow

S8 Ep985: SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW,6-8-26 1823.

S8 Ep984: TREAMING MAKING JBS, FEATURING ROGGIO AND SAYEH, 6-8-26. 1895 WAR CANOE

S8 Ep983: Alejandro Peña Esclusa and Ernesto Araújo discuss regional instability in Bolivia and Chile. They highlight the coordinated efforts of the left to provoke social unrest and the impact of transnational criminal organizations. (16)

S8 Ep983: Alejandro Peña Esclusa and Ernesto Araújo report on close elections in Peru and Colombia. They discuss the rise of right-wing candidates fighting organized crime and the left's allegations of widespread electoral irregularities. (15)

S8 Ep983: Conrad Black critiques Canada's "Combatting Hate Act," arguing it is a tokenistic measure that potentially infringes on free expression. He asserts existing laws are already sufficient to handle genuine incitements to criminal violence. (14)

S8 Ep983: Bill Roggio and Bridget Toomey examine the Houthi movement's role in the regional conflict. They discuss leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi's ambitious vision, his coordination with Iran, and threats to Israeli shipping. (13)

S8 Ep983: Gordon Chang and Rick Fisher analyze China's "grayzone" activities and maritime intimidation near Taiwan. They discuss the deployment of massive Coast Guard vessels and Taiwan's asymmetric defense strategy to prevent beach invasions. (12)

S8 Ep983: Gordon Chang and Alan Tonelson review the re-imposition of U.S. tariffs on China following a Supreme Court ruling. They discuss specific trade laws, forced labor bans, and the public's perception of trade wars. (11)

S8 Ep983: Ahmad Sharawi discusses Syria's efforts to lift its state sponsor of terror designation to attract foreign investment. He warns that unconditional sanctions relief poses risks regarding foreign fighters and Hezbollah's regional rearmament. (10)

S8 Ep983: Bill Roggio and John Hardie discuss Russia's reopening of military schools to replenish its officer core. They analyze the impact of high casualties in Ukraine on Russian force quality and post-war reconstitution plans. (9)

S8 Ep983: Edmund Fitton-Brown discusses the centrality of the nuclear file in U.S.-Iran negotiations. He emphasizes that Israel cannot withdraw from Lebanon while under threat and highlights the IRGC's strategy of absorbing long-term pain. (8)

S8 Ep983: Edmund Fitton-Brown evaluates the "armed standoff" between the U.S. and Iran. He explains how Iran uses Hezbollah to pressure Israel while attempting to exploit political vulnerabilities and split the U.S. from Jerusalem. (7)

S8 Ep983: Thaddeus McCotter and Malcolm Hoenlein explore Qatar's massive U.S. investments and its role as a state sponsor of terrorism. They also address the failure of Saudi Arabia's Neom project and Hamas's weakening position. (6)

S8 Ep983: Thaddeus McCotter and Malcolm Hoenlein review Israeli strikes on Iranian military infrastructure and the severe financial crisis facing the IRGC. They also discuss the Houthi movement's renewed threats to disrupt Red Sea shipping. (5)

S8 Ep983: Bill Roggio and Jonathan Sayeh detail Iran's centralized internet restrictions and increased execution rates for dissidents. They discuss Israel's targeting of Iranian petrochemical facilities linked to ballistic missile production and covert resistance e

S8 Ep983: Bill Roggio and Jonathan Sayeh analyze Iran's strategic focus on Lebanon and Hezbollah as a "crown jewel." They discuss Iran's preemptive missile strikes against Israel and their efforts to create diplomatic rifts. (3)

S8 Ep983: Bill Roggio discusses the volatile Middle East conflict, highlighting recent missile exchanges between Israel and Iran. He notes the fragility of ceasefires and the impact of the ongoing U.S. maritime and economic blockade. (2)

S8 Ep983: Bill Roggio examines the intersection of Ebola and jihadist activity in Africa. ISIS-affiliated groups occupy national parks, complicating medical containment efforts amidst collapsed governance in West Africa and foreign exploitation by Russia and China.

S8 Ep982: Rick Fisher explains that Taiwan's primary military strategy focuses on destroying a Chinese invasion force on the beach. This approach, encouraged by Washington, aligns with historic lessons regarding defense against amphibious attacks. (1)

S8 Ep982: John Hardie discusses Roman Abramovich's attempts to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine. Putin refuses a meeting until Zelensky agrees to key demands, viewing a summit only as a final step for signing. (2)

S8 Ep982: Alejandro Peña Esclusa describes how Evo Morales triggers blockades and chaos in Bolivia to evade prosecution. The government is responding with emergency powers to prevent Morales from overthrowing the system through leftist-coordinated protests. (3)

S8 Ep982: Ahmad Sharawi details how lifting Syria's terror designation would grant the government access to significant capital. This change would encourage Gulf investors to fund critical sectors, increasing their influence within the country. (4)

S8 Ep982: Bridget Toomey outlines Abdul Malik al-Houthi's expansive vision, which includes seizing contested Saudi territory and holy cities. Emboldened by Red Sea disruptions, the Houthis seek to expand their religious and political influence globally. (5)

S8 Ep981: Gaius and Germanicus critique the SpaceX IPO, labeling it a grand "grift" comparable to the speculative railroad booms of the 1870s. They warn of a stupendous transfer of wealth from ordinary people to the elite, fueled by asset bubbles in AI and space

S8 Ep981: Gaius and Germanicus reflect on the "supreme moment" of 1944–1945, when a unified American "civil religion" and industrial supremacy dominated the globe. Today, however, they see a fractured "salad bowl" nation governed by an "emperor system" born from th

S8 Ep981: On a spring evening in Londinium, Gaius and Germanicus philosophize on the decline of the American Empire, drawing parallels between modern leadership and historical Roman crises. They contrast current American hesitancy with the "impetuosity" of Rome, su

S8 Ep980: Author Patrick K. O'Donnell discusses his extensive research into the Second Ranger Battalion, specifically focusing on the personal legacies and oral histories of the men of Dog Company. His work is based on thousands of interviews and archival docum

S8 Ep980: Patrick K. O'Donnell describes how over the next 40 hours, the Rangers on Hill 400 withstood five major German counterattacks and a relentless artillery barrage. Fifteen battalions of German artillery conducted "time on target" missions, raining shells do

S8 Ep980: Patrick K. O'Donnell describes how the assault on Hill 400 on December 7, 1944, was characterized by surviving Rangers as their "longest day," surpassing even D-Day in intensity. Before the attack, Len Lomell conducted a reconnaissance patrol, determining

S8 Ep980: Patrick K. O'Donnell recounts how in late summer 1944, the Rangers were assigned to assist in capturing the port of Brest, a fortress Hitler ordered to be held at all costs. During a scouting mission, Lieutenant Edlund and three scouts discovered a narrow

S8 Ep980: Patrick K. O'Donnell describes how after destroying the guns, the Rangers of Dog, Easy, and Fox companies established a thin defensive line along the coastal road between Omaha and Utah beaches. Isolated and without the expected reinforcements from Force

S8 Ep980: Patrick K. O'Donnell recounts how between 7:20 and 8:00 a.m., the Rangers began their assault using rocket-propelled grappling hooks to fire wet ropes up the 90-foot cliffs. The climb was conducted under intense fire from German MG42 machine guns and "pot

S8 Ep980: Patrick K. O'Donnell explains how at 4:05 a.m. on June 6, 1944, the Rangers received the order to man their boats amidst a massive Allied naval bombardment. The plan involved Force A, which included Dog, Easy, and Fox companies, assaulting the cliffs at P

S8 Ep980: Patrick K. O'Donnell describes how in early 1944, Lieutenant Colonel James Earl Rudder and Major Max F. Schneider arrived at Paddington Station in London for a top-secret briefing regarding the most dangerous mission of D-Day. Their objective was to neutr

S8 Ep979: Serhii Plokhy concludes that the crisis ended with a secret deal, but Fidel Castro was outraged, having advocated for a pre-emptive nuclear strike. Anastas Mikoyan was forced to negotiate the removal of tactical nukes while his wife was dying in Moscow

S8 Ep979: Serhii Plokhy recounts how October 27, "Black Saturday," was the closest the world came to nuclear war as local commanders took control. In the Sargasso Sea, the Soviet submarine B-59, harassed by U.S. dummy depth charges, nearly fired a nuclear torpedo.

S8 Ep979: Serhii Plokhy describes how on October 26-27, Khrushchev sent conflicting messages: a private letter offering a non-invasion pledge and a public demand to remove U.S. Jupiters in Turkey. This caused chaos in the White House, with officials fearing Khrushc

S8 Ep979: Serhii Plokhy explains that Anastas Mikoyan emerged as a voice of reason, having opposed the missiles from the start. As the U.S. blockade began, Khrushchev ordered missile-carrying ships to turn back, though one ship with nuclear warheads was v

S8 Ep979: Serhii Plokhy describes how by October 20, the Joint Chiefs, led by Curtis LeMay, were pushing for Oplan 312 (a full-scale invasion), accusing Kennedy of "appeasement." Kennedy feared an invasion would trigger a Soviet takeover of West Berlin. He successf

S8 Ep979: Serhii Plokhy details that Khrushchev's decision was driven by the USSR having only five or six ICBMs capable of hitting the U.S. mainland. By deploying medium-range R-12 and R-14 missiles to Cuba, he sought to balance the threat from American Minutemen.

S8 Ep979: Serhii Plokhy explains that Khrushchev placed missiles in Cuba to counter the U.S. "missile gap" and the Jupiter missiles in Turkey. He chose General Issa Pliyev, a loyal cavalryman, to lead Operation Anadyr because of his experience with multi-force coor

S8 Ep979: Serhii Plokhy describes how on October 16, 1962, National Security Adviser McGeorge Bundy informed President Kennedy that U-2 spy planes had discovered Soviet nuclear missiles in Cuba. Kennedy felt personally betrayed by Khrushchev's prior lies regarding

S8 Ep978: Holly Fretwell proposes longer-term contracts (up to 20+ years) to encourage private investment in essential milling infrastructure. She recommends expanding categorical exclusions to bypass "analysis paralysis" and lifting 1960s-era export bans on raw

S8 Ep978: Holly Fretwell advocates for partnerships between private entities and federal forests, citing the National Forest Foundation and Blue Forest Conservation's resilience bonds as successful models. She emphasizes the Good Neighbor Authority, which allows st

S8 Ep978: Holly Fretwell explains how NEPA, the Endangered Species Act, and the Clean Air Act create "red tape" and litigation that stall restoration projects. She highlights that the Clean Air Act paradoxically limits prescribed burns, which would prevent far more

S8 Ep978: Holly Fretwell introduces the wildfire crisis, noting that 80 million federal acres require urgent restoration. She argues that historical policies like the 10 a.m. suppression rule and reduced timber harvesting have created dense, flammable forests. Cons

S8 Ep977: Jeremy Zakis describes his dog Dallas's social dynamics with local birds. He explains that Dallas, usually friendly, recently turned against currawongs for stealing his breakfast biscuits. Jeremy also compares Dallas's slow eating habits to other dogs who

S8 Ep976: Jeremy Zakis explores the match-fixing scandal and gang influence threatening Canadian cricket's international status. He details how players potentially "sandbagged" games for gambling purposes. Finally, Jeremy discusses the recent resurgence of "Bazball

S8 Ep976: Jeremy Zakis discusses a viral video featuring an aggressive black-headed python striking a camera. He warns that a mouse plague is reaching Sydney, forcing residents to seal their homes. Jeremy notes that snakes are bypassing hibernatioC this winter, liE

S8 Ep976: Jeremy Zakis reports on unusual winter weather in Sydney, suggesting a potential shift toward a severe El Niño. He explains the impact of trade winds and Pacific temperatures on global climate. Additionally, Jeremy shares that his grandfather served in tE

S8 Ep975: Tyler Anbinder examines the remarkable industrial success of Phelan and Collender, who mass-produced high-quality billiard tables. Their innovation in table cushions led to a dominant market position, and they famously gifted a custom gold-ornamented ta

S8 Ep975: Tyler Anbinder traces the migration of Irish families beyond New York City. The Lynch family, for instance, saved money for a decade before moving to Minnesota to establish farms on affordable government land, creating vibrant Irish enclaves in the wilder

S8 Ep975: Tyler Anbinder focuses on the establishment of Castle Garden in 1855 as a centralized reception center to protect immigrants from swindlers. Hubert Glenn, an Irish-speaking clerk, managed record-keeping there for nearly 40 years, though most of these reco

S8 Ep975: Tyler Anbinder discusses the significant role of the Irish in the American Civil War, particularly the 69th Regiment. Many joined for military training to eventually liberate Ireland, but they fought enthusiastically for the Union out of gratitude to thei

S8 Ep975: Tyler Anbinder highlights the upward mobility of Irish artisans and entrepreneurs, showcasing George Fox, a trained tailor who became a successful merchant tailor through aggressive self-promotion and by providing free garments to prominent politicians li

S8 Ep975: Tyler Anbinder describes the perilous Atlantic crossing and the arrival of immigrants in Manhattan, detailing the horrific conditions on "coffin ships," where diseases like typhus and cholera spread rapidly in cramped steerage quarters. Upon arrival, fami

S8 Ep975: Tyler Anbinder details the origins of the Great Potato Famine, noting that the destructive fungus actually originated in North America and thrived in Ireland's cool, damp climate. By 1846, 90% of the potato crop—the primary food source for half the popula

S8 Ep975: Tyler Anbinder discusses his book Plentiful Country, which explores the lives of Famine-era Irish immigrants in New York. The narrative begins with a poignant 1896 scene where Kate Murphy, a long-time domestic servant, pays to stand on a map of Ireland fi

S8 Ep974: SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-5-2026. 1900 ADAMS BOULEVARD LA.

S8 Ep974: STREAMING THE MAKING OF JBS, FEATURING JEFF BLISS, MICHAEL VLAHOS, 6-5-2026. 1906 LA FIESTA DE LOS ANGELES.T

S8 Ep973: Richard Epstein discusses the legal complexities of a proposed executive order to end birthright citizenship for children of illegal aliens. He highlights the rise of "manufactured citizenship" through birth tourism and predicts the Supreme Court may

S8 Ep973: Richard Epstein analyzes the Wong Kim Ark decision, arguing that Justice Horace Gray erroneously applied birthright citizenship to the children of ineligible aliens. He further critiques the expansion of the Equal Protection Clause in the 20th century, cl

S8 Ep972: Henry Sokolski explains the strategic significance of deploying Dual Capable Aircraft (DCA), such as the F-35, to reinforce NATO's nuclear deterrent in Europe. He observes that while Moscow and Beijing oppose these deployments, the aircraft act as vital "

S8 Ep972: Henry Sokolski warns of China's fast breeder reactor program, which produces super weapons-grade plutonium capable of fueling efficient nuclear triggers. He also notes South Korea's growing interest in developing independent nuclear capabilities and subma

S8 Ep972: Andrew Bayliss critiques the modern application of the "Thucydides Trap" to US-China relations, arguing that the original Peloponnesian War was not inevitable. He suggests the conflict was precipitated by specific provocations and accidental circumstances

S8 Ep972: Andrew Bayliss explores the aftermath of Sparta's victory, noting that Lysander's immense power and ambition ultimately led to his death during a failed siege. Sparta's dominance eventually collapsed at the Battle of Leuctra due to a dwindling citizen pop

S8 Ep972: Andrew Bayliss profiles Lysander, a Spartan general of modest origins who secured crucial Persian funding to challenge Athenian naval supremacy. Lysander achieved victory not through direct combat, but by using deception to capture the Athenian fleet whil

S8 Ep972: Andrew Bayliss recounts how Pericles provoked the Peloponnesian War by steering Athens toward confrontation with Sparta. He details the Athenian strategy of retreating behind city walls and relying on naval imports, a move that tragically facilitated a de

S8 Ep972: Bob Zimmerman surveys global spaceport developments, contrasting Spain's investment in French Guiana with the liquidation of the UK's Sutherland facility due to red tape. He debunks claims that the interstellar comet 3I/Atlas is an alien craft and notes t

S8 Ep972: Bob Zimmerman dismisses NASA's sheltering orders on the ISS as an overreaction to routine Russian repair work on the Zvezda module. He details SpaceX's massive IPO, which aims to raise billions, and observes that private space station firms like Axiom and

S8 Ep972: Lorenzo Fiori provides an optimistic update on Italy's economy, noting improved employment rates across various demographics. He highlights a landmark legislative shift toward nuclear energy, with small plants planned by 2034. For travelers, he recommends

S8 Ep972: Jim McTague reports on the cautious economic sentiment in Lancaster County, where despite falling gas prices, consumers remain budget-conscious. While tourism remains strong at venues like the Sight and Sound Theatre, local officials recently rejected a p

S8 Ep972: Richard Epstein disputes the "plain meaning" application to the 14th Amendment, arguing that "subject to the jurisdiction" requires natural allegiance rather than mere physical presence. Critiquing the Wong Kim Ark ruling, he suggests that children of leg

S8 Ep972: Richard Epstein examines the 14th Amendment's opening clause, distinguishing the robust rights of citizens from the conditional privileges of aliens. He argues that naturalization was historically a federal prerogative, noting that early statutes, influen

S8 Ep972: Jeff Bliss previews the opening of a massive, multi-story In-N-Out Burger in Las Vegas, predicting it will become a celebrity destination similar to Hollywood's historic clubs or New York's Stork Club. He also reflects on a rare 1955 invitation from Walt

S8 Ep972: Jeff Bliss highlights the stark contrast between Seattle's controlled homelessness and the pervasive crisis in Los Angeles. The discussion transitions to California's jungle primary, where late-arriving ballots in the Los Angeles mayoral race show statist

S8 Ep971: Henry Sokolski analyzes China's nuclear capabilities, including missile silos and underground transport systems, while questioning their peer-to-peer ambitions. He also observes economic trends, noting that gas price fluctuations and sparse Costco crowds

S8 Ep970: Andrew Bayliss, a classicist from the University of Birmingham, discusses the military strategies of Sparta and Athens during their historic conflict. He explains that while Sparta was self-sufficient, Athens relied heavily on its fleet for food imports.

S8 Ep970: Professor Richard Epstein analyzes the legal nuances of the 14th Amendment and the myth of birthright citizenship. He explains the "plain meaning" rule of the Constitution, distinguishing between being "subject to the jurisdiction"—which implies loyalty t

S8 Ep970: Jim McTague reports on consumer behavior at a Costco in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, following Memorial Day weekend. He observes that despite a significant drop in gas prices, the store remained unusually empty. McTague suggests that shoppers are becom

S8 Ep970: Jeff Bliss returns to discuss the complexities of the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles, noting that it involves deeply troubled individuals requiring mental health support. He highlights how criminal gangs exploit these populations, turning encampments

S8 Ep970: Bob Zimmerman explores the expansion of private enterprise in space, specifically highlighting a French startup called The Exploration Company. He details the successful parachute drop test of their Nyx cargo capsule, designed to transport supplies to com

S8 Ep971: SHOW SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-4-2026. 1671.

S8 Ep971: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JBS, FEATURING SIMON CONSTABLE AND JIM MCTAGUE, 6-4-2026.

S8 Ep970: Rick Fisher discusses China's 100-year plan to dominate the solar system, specifically the Lunar South Pole's resources. He describes potential "de-confliction" issues as China uses crashing propulsion modules for landings. Fisher concludes that space is

S8 Ep970: Rick Fisher warns of the rapid militarization of the Earth-Moon system. He highlights China's dual-use space program, run by the People's Liberation Army, and the U.S. Space Command's shift toward "offensive space control." Both powers are deploying lunar

S8 Ep970: Simon Constable discusses the political instability in Britain, where Andy Burnham seeks to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The segment also covers the tragic death of Henry Novak, which has ignited debates over migration and policing, with Nigel F

S8 Ep970: Simon Constable reports from France on volatile commodity markets. While copper prices suggest economic growth, the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz threatens to spike oil prices and trigger global economic downgrades. Constable also provides upd

S8 Ep970: Professor Andrew Bayliss analyzes the Persian Wars, noting that while Thermopylae created the Spartan legend, the naval victory at Salamis was strategically decisive. Following the war, Sparta retreated into isolationism due to internal scandals, allowing

S8 Ep970: Professor Andrew Bayliss describes the "brutal barracks life" of Spartan education, beginning at age seven. Boys endured physical hardship and were encouraged to steal food to prepare for combat. Women also underwent athletic training to produce strong wa

S8 Ep970: Professor Andrew Bayliss introduces the primary sources for Spartan history: Herodotus, who recorded epic narratives; Thucydides, who focused on clinical analysis and the "Thucydides Trap"; and Xenophon, a student of Socrates who continued Thucydides' unf

S8 Ep970: Professor Andrew Bayliss discusses the origins and geography of Sparta, a fertile but mountain-locked valley. He explains the unique dual kingship and the Spartan "plantation cult" society, which relied on the brutal enslavement of the Helots. Bayliss als

S8 Ep970: Veronique de Rugy critiques the feasibility of single-payer healthcare in America. Citing Vermont's failed experiment, she highlights the astronomical tax increases required to fund such systems. De Rugy argues that government-run healthcare leads to rati

S8 Ep970: Mary Anastasia O'Grady explores the ideological battle in the Andean region. She describes Evo Morales's efforts to paralyze Bolivia through road blockades. O'Grady also analyzes the electoral shifts in Peru and Colombia, where voters increasingly favor r

S8 Ep970: Anatol Lieven discusses the civil unrest following the murder of Henry Novak in England. He critiques the police response and explains how Nigel Farage is exploiting the tragedy to fuel nationalist sentiment. Additionally, Lieven assesses the political de

S8 Ep970: Anatol Lieven analyzes Ukrainian drone strikes on St. Petersburg, which damaged energy infrastructure and embarrassed the Kremlin during an economic forum. Lieven observes that the war has evolved into a "battle of drones," undermining Russia's impAnatol

S8 Ep970: Evan Ellis discusses Argentine President Javier Milei's push for unregulated AI development to attract tech investment, highlighted by Peter Thiel's move to Buenos Aires. The segment also covers social unrest in Mexico as it prepares to host the World Cup

S8 Ep970: Evan Ellis details regional tensions: former Mexican President AMLO accuses Washington of interference regarding corruption probes into his party. In Cuba, the U.S. employs "carrots and sticks" to pressure the regime. Meanwhile, Brazil's election intensif

S8 Ep970: Evan Ellis examines upcoming elections in Peru and Colombia. In Peru, hard-left candidate Roberto Sanchez challenges Keiko Fujimori, raising concerns about radical constitutional changes. In Colombia, security-focused newcomer Abelardo de la Espriella lea

S8 Ep970: Evan Ellis discusses the crisis in Bolivia, where President Rodrigo Paz appointed a new defense minister to counter blockades by Evo Morales's supporters and coca growers. These paramilitary-style tactics have isolated La Paz, causing severe shortages. El

S8 Ep969: PREVIEW: John Bachelor and guest Andrew Bayliss discuss the history of Sparta. They explore the perspectives of Herodotus, the "father of history," regarding the massive military confrontation between the Greeks and the PersiansV

S8 Ep969: PREVIEW: Guest Simon Constable discusses the UK Labor Party's leadership. He analyzes the rivalry between Keir Starmer and Andy Burnham, noting Burnham’s strong media presence and potential appeal to British voters.

S8 Ep969: PREVIEW: Guest Evan Ellis analyzes Peter Thiel’s move to Argentina. He discusses President Javier Milei’s pro-AI agenda and how attracting tech investment could signal stability and economic growth for the nation.

S8 Ep969: PREVIEW: Guest Mary Anastasia O'Grady reports on political turmoil in Bolivia. She details how Evo Morales and cocoa growers are paralyzing the country through road blockades to challenge the current centrist government.

S8 Ep969: PREVIEW: Guest Mary Anastasia O'Grady reports on political turmoil in Bolivia. She details how Evo Morales and cocoa growers are paralyzing the country through road blockades to challenge the current centrist government.

S8 Ep969: REVIEW: Guest Veronique de Rugy critiques the single-payer healthcare model. She argues that European systems "free-ride" on American pharmaceutical and technological innovations, which are driven by the U.S. system's profit motives.

S8 Ep968: SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-3-2026. 1907 TOJO

S8 Ep967: STREAMING THE MAKING OF JBS, FEATURING CHANG, GRANT, HAROLD, YATES, 6-3-2026 1865 BRAZIL IRONCLAD

S8 Ep966: (16) Ryan Streeter discusses human flourishing, defining it as the fulfillment of potential through purpose and upward mobility. He argues that dynamic societies improve job satisfaction for hourly workers by providing more options. Conversely, stagnation

S8 Ep966: (15) Ryan Streeter honors economist Ed Phelps, who defined dynamism as a culture of grassroots tinkering and indigenous innovation. He explains that growth is driven by experimental mindsets rather than just scientific labs. Streeter notes that dynamic cu

S8 Ep966: (14) Jack Burnham explains that Volvo, though manufacturing in the US, is owned by Geely and must comply with Chinese data-sharing laws. He also warns of China's dominance in the biotechnology supply chain. Through state subsidies and "dumping," China thr

S8 Ep966: (13) Jack Burnham discusses how Nvidia chips reach the Chinese military through loopholes in export controls and subsidiaries. He notes bureaucratic confusion over the "AI diffusion rule" allowed Chinese firms to stockpile high-end hardware. Burnham recom

S8 Ep966: (12) Gordon Chang asserts that China is a declining power facing economic stagnation and a massive demographic collapse. He notes that the US economy remains superior, particularly in energy and AI. China's youth unemployment is estimated at 35-40%, forci

S8 Ep966: (11) Titus Techera critiques the evolution of Animal Farm films, noting the newest version depicts Silicon Valley and AI as villains. He argues this shift denatures Orwell's original anti-totalitarian message for modern ideological purposes. The 1954 vers

S8 Ep966: (10) Jonathan Schanzer reports that Israeli forces have reduced Hamas control in Gaza to roughly 40%, aiming for 30%. Hamas is currently trapped in an Israeli "yellow zone" kill zone, making rearmament or offensive operations nearly impossible. Schanzer b

S8 Ep966: (9) Jonathan Schanzer describes the "ceasefire war" in the Middle East, where Iran continues attacks despite diplomatic efforts. He argues Iran aims to detach Gulf allies like Kuwait from the West. Schanzer advocates for maximum economic pressure on TehrD

S8 Ep966: (8) Bob Zimmerman highlights Curiosity rover data confirming Gale Crater's shifting climate, which once supported warm water. The James Webb Space Telescope detected high methane levels on the interstellar comet 3I/Atlas, suggesting a unique chemical comp

S8 Ep966: (7) Bob Zimmerman reports that Blue Origin's CEO expects to resume launches this year despite a recent launchpad explosion. Meanwhile, SpaceX secured $6 billion in Space Force contracts for tracking and communication satellites. China continues rapid deve

S8 Ep966: (6) Michael Bernstam notes the OECD's warning of global recession if the Gulf energy crisis persists. While the US is depleting strategic reserves to maintain supply, it is also increasing domestic production. High prices are triggering "demand destructio

S8 Ep966: (5) Michael Bernstam analyzes the humiliating Ukrainian strike on a St. Petersburg oil terminal during Putin's flagship economic forum. Russia's energy sector faces a crisis, forcing a ban on refined exports like gasoline due to refinery damage. Consequen

S8 Ep966: (4) Steve Yates argues the "Thucydides trap" is a manufactured academic concept used by Beijing to suggest inevitable US decline. He emphasizes that the US is not a classical empire and remains globally influential. China uses this rhetoric for political

S8 Ep966: (3) Steve Yates examines the KMT leader's visit to Washington following meetings with Xi Jinping. He expresses concern over the KMT cutting Taiwan's indigenous defense budget. Yates also analyzes Taiwan's "inverted triangle" demographics, where older vote

S8 Ep966: (2) Rebecca Grant describes the proposed Trump class battleship, a nuclear-powered "missile truck" designed for standoff strikes. Unlike traditional battleships, it emphasizes hypersonic attack and laser weaponry. The ship would be highly survivable, defe

S8 Ep966: (1) Scott Harold discusses the unprecedented question from Japan's Defense Minister at the Shangri-La Dialogue regarding America's Indo-Pacific commitment. He notes the omission of Taiwan in Secretary Hegseth's speech compared to last year. Japan remains

S8 Ep965: Preview for Later Today: Jonathan Schanzer analyzes the IDF's offensive in Lebanon against Hezbollah's unjammable FPV drones. He argues that withdrawing without victory would be a mistake, as Lebanon's government remains ineffective against Iranian-backed

S8 Ep965: Preview for Later Today: Gordon Chang argues that China is a declining power due to demographic and economic distress. In contrast, the United States remains the sole superpower, growing stronger through energy self-sufficiency and food security.

S8 Ep965: Preview for Later Today: Scott Harold explains that Japan is strengthening its indigenous defense capabilities and regional alliances. This move addresses concerns about China's rise and questions regarding the consistency and long-term commitment of the

S8 Ep965: Preview for Later Today: Titus Techera reviews Andy Serkis's Animal Farm, which critiques techno-capitalism instead of Soviet totalitarianism. The film portrays Silicon Valley and artificial intelligence as modern villains, reflecting contemporary fears o

S8 Ep965: Preview for Later Today: Jack Burnham discusses Commerce Department restrictions on connected Chinese vehicles over espionage concerns. Volvo secured an exception because of its significant American manufacturing presence and its commitment to implementin

S8 Ep964: SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-2-2026. 1811 BRUSSELS

S8 Ep963: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING THADDEUS MCCOTTER, 6-2-2026 BRUSSELS 1810 ANTWERP GATE BRUSSELS

S8 Ep962: (16) Malcolm Hoenlein notes that Hezbollah's tunnels and missile capacity remain a critical danger to northern Israel. He notes rising global anti-Semitism and the influence of regional actors like Qatar and Turkey in supporting extremist ideologies.

S8 Ep962: (15) Malcolm Hoenlein explains that Iran continues its "forever war" by funding Hezbollah despite ongoing truce negotiations. Prime Minister Netanyahu faces internal pressure while assessing potential ceasefires and the ongoing threat of Hamas rebuilding

S8 Ep962: (14) Mary Kissel critiques U.S.-China relations, arguing that Beijing is a totalitarian enemy. She advocates for strategic decoupling and realistic planning, rather than hoping for fair trade or stability from the current Chinese regime.

S8 Ep962: (13) Mary Kissel discusses Secretary Marco Rubio's budget focused on Iran, Ukraine, and China. Rubio emphasizes hemispheric security and the need for strategic planning to address malign influences in Cuba and Venezuela.

S8 Ep962: (12) Gregory Copley notes that King Charles III maintains an active diplomatic schedule despite his cancer diagnosis. The King is focused on preparing Prince William for the throne while strengthening vital connections throughout the global Commonwealth.

S8 Ep962: (11) Gregory Copley examines the political turmoil besetting the British Parliament as Keir Starmer faces internal challenges and the rising Reform Party. Concerns over illegal immigration and nationalism are replacing traditional class-based voting patte

S8 Ep962: (10) Gregory Copley analyzes reports of expanded nuclear deployments in Europe, describing them as psychological posturing. He views these signals as political maneuvering that does not substantially alter the military balance of power in Eurasia.

S8 Ep962: (9) Gregory Copley notes that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed as the IRGC maintains its "whip hand" over Iranian policy. Copley asserts that the IRGC prioritizes survival over settlements, using regional proxies to maintain strategic leverage.

S8 Ep962: (8) Judy Dempsey discusses the AfD party's rise in Germany, which exploits voter fear regarding globalization and deindustrialization. However, the populists lack pragmatic solutions for demographic challenges and the necessary economic reforms missed by

S8 Ep962: (7) Judy Dempsey reports that leaked accounts suggest the U.S. may expand nuclear-capable deployments in Europe to deter Russia. This strategy evaluates reactions to potential shifts in NATO's security umbrella as Europe takes more responsibility for self

S8 Ep962: (6) Michael Toth explains how Texas created specialized business courts and maintained a light regulatory touch to attract major corporations. The state is successfully challenging Delaware's dominance as the primary legal domicile for prominent American

S8 Ep962: (5) Michael Toth examines Exxon Mobil's relocation to Texas, which was opposed by proxy firms ISS and Glass Lewis. Toth argues these advisory firms prioritize ideological ESG agendas over actual shareholder value and lack transparency regarding their moti

S8 Ep962: (4) Thaddeus McCotter reviews how political parties adjust after primary elections, highlighting internal conflicts between establishment figures and MAGA or socialist factions. President Trump remains focused on his policy priorities regardless of midter

S8 Ep962: (3) Thaddeus McCotter discusses a Gallup poll revealing historically low economic confidence among independent voters. The Trump administration's foreign policy challenges, particularly regarding Iran, further complicate the domestic political landscape f

S8 Ep962: (2) Liz Peek examines how voters in California's primary face economic decline, high taxes, and out-of-control crime. Republican Steve Hilton campaigns on common-sense changes to address quality-of-life issues as residents reject "woke" policies in major

S8 Ep962: (1) Liz Peek discusses the K-shaped economy, where wealthy retirees flourish while lower-income citizens struggle with inflation and high gasoline costs. The Iran war significantly impacts oil prices, threatening real wage growth.

S8 Ep961: Preview for Later Today: Gregory Copley explores King Charles III's rapport with common citizens and tribal leaders, distinguishing the crown from the aristocracy. He notes the King's personal connections, such as a long-standing correspondence with a Bra

S8 Ep961: Preview for Later Today: Judy Dempsey analyzes the strategic uncertainty caused by potential U.S. troop reductions in Europe. She highlights how a lack of clear communication regarding these changes creates confusion and security concerns among various NA

S8 Ep961: Preview for Later Today: Malcolm Hoenlein investigates the mystery surrounding Mojtaba Khamenei's leadership status in Iran. He questions if the IRGC is actually in control, noting that propaganda and symbolism are being used to maintain a national facade

S8 Ep960: Preview for Later Today: Mary Kissel addresses the Trump administration's stance on NATO, stressing that support remains strong for Ukraine. She urges European capitals to prioritize defense while commending Ukraine's impressive advancements in domestic m

S8 Ep960: Preview for Later Today: Thaddeus McCotter argues that the current approach to Iran repeats failures of previous administrations. He emphasizes that without regime change or ideological shifts, negotiations with the IRGC lack the trust required for sustai

S8 Ep960: Preview for Later Today: Liz Peek reports from the Reagan Economic Forum on the transformative power of AI. She observes that companies embracing AI see their revenues double, whereas those failing to adopt the technology are falling behind.

S8 Ep959: SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-1-2026. 1933 VALLEY FORGE

S8 Ep958: STREAMING THE MAKING OF JBS, FEATURING BILL ROGGIO AND JONATYN SAYEH, 6-1-26. 1994 YEMEN,

S8 Ep957: (16) Rick Fisher details the military nature of the Chinese space program, noting that the nation's astronaut corps is officially the Astronaut Brigade of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Fisher explains that China has utilized its space program for du

S8 Ep957: (15) Peter Huessy discusses the confirmation by the U.S. government that China conducted recent underground nuclear tests. Huessy reports that China is building launch pads next to its missile silos, which nuclear experts interpret as a shift toward a "fi

S8 Ep957: (14) Peter Berkowitz notes that both the progressive and post-liberal right critiques share a common repudiation of America's founding principles of human freedom and equality. He argues that these critiques often occur in a "historical and comparative va

S8 Ep957: (13) Peter Berkowitz examines two distinct intellectual critiques of the United States as it approaches its 250th anniversary: the postmodern progressives and the post-liberal right. The progressives argue that America is mired in systemic oppression and

S8 Ep957: (12) David Daoud characterizes recent diplomatic talks between Israel and Lebanon at the U.S. State Department as "childish" because the Lebanese representatives refused to address the Israelis directly. On the ground, the IDF has captured the strategical

S8 Ep957: (11) David Daoud explains the linkage between Lebanon and Iran, noting that Iran treats a violation of a ceasefire in Lebanon as a violation of its own truce with the U.S. Hezbollah officially intervened in the conflict on March 2, 2026, specifically to p

S8 Ep957: (10) Ahmed Sharawi highlights Iran's persistent ambition to re-establish its supply highway through Syria to Lebanon following the fall of the Assad regime. Sharawi reports that Iran continues to target Kurdish groups in Iraq, making Iraqi Kurdistan the s

S8 Ep957: (9) John Hardie discusses tactical developments in the Ukraine war, including the seizure of a Russian oil tanker by French special forces. Ukraine is successfully ramping up "middle strikes" (30 to 300 kilometers) to target Russian logistics, air defense

S8 Ep957: (8) Alejandro Peña Esclusa reports on a "slow-motion coup" attempt in Bolivia led by Evo Morales, whose supporters have placed the capital under siege. This instability is a major concern for Brazil because Bolivia serves as a primary source of the cocain

S8 Ep957: (7) This segment focuses on the Americas, where a shift toward right-wing candidates is occurring in response to organized crime. In Colombia, presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella is leading in polls on a platform of anti-narco-terrorism and re

S8 Ep957: (6) Samuel Ben-Ur explains that the Board of Peace has been inactive and is currently "without money" because its funding was predicated on Hamas disarming. Hamas immediately rejected a disarmament plan presented by the board, asserting that its weapons a

S8 Ep957: (5) Samuel Ben-Ur assesses that Hamas's military wing has been degraded to the point of acting primarily as an internal police force in Gaza. The group's command structure has been "wiped out" following years of war and recent Israeli decapitation strikes

S8 Ep957: (4) Jonathan Sayeh details the domestic situation in Iran, where the population recently endured their longest internet blackout, lasting nearly two months following a massacre in January 2026. Once connectivity was partially restored, citizens used socia

S8 Ep957: (3) Jonathan Sayeh reports that the U.S. blockade has caused a sharp decline in Iranian oil exports, though it has not yet reached a level of total economic catastrophe. The Iranian regime is demanding the total elimination of all sanctions and access to

S8 Ep957: (2) Bill Roggio argues that the term "ceasefire" regarding the Strait of Hormuz is a misnomer, as the United States and Iran continue to launch fresh strikes against one another. Roggio characterizes the situation as confusing for the American public beca

S8 Ep957: (1) John Batchelor and Bill Roggio introduce the global landscape of current conflicts, noting that reporting on these issues is often marginalized by major newspapers. The segment focuses on Syria, where the self-appointed president, Al-Shara, is holding

S8 Ep956: Preview for Later Today: Samuel Ben-ur discusses Hamas's continued threat in Gaza despite shifting battlefield dynamics. He explores IDF operations, leadership objectives under Netanyahu, and the challenges of securing the region while Hamas remains armed

S8 Ep956: Preview for Later Today: Rick Fisher examines the competition between the U.S. Space Force and China's militarized astronaut brigade. He highlights dual-use technologies on the moon and the importance of defending lunar assets if global geopolitics turn s

S8 Ep956: Preview for Later Today: John Hardie analyzes the drone war in Ukraine, noting the tactical advantage Starlink and Western AI provide for mid-range strikes. He contrasts Ukrainian logistics targeting with Russia's focus on energy infrastructure and specia

S8 Ep956: Preview for Later Today: Peter Huessy explains battlefield nuclear doctrines, contrasting Western deterrent strategies with Russia's coercive use of nuclear threats. He discusses how these tensions influence NATO's involvement in Ukraine and ongoing Russi

S8 Ep956: Preview for Later Today: Jonathan Sayeh reports on the Iranian people's discouragement regarding the lack of U.S. support for regime change. He discusses abandoned mobilization plans and the potential, yet controversial, use of specific Kurdish separatist

S8 Ep956: Preview for Later Today: Ahmed Sharawi discusses Iran's persistent ambition to dominate Syria and rebuild the strategic highway to Beirut. He emphasizes that Iran continues exploiting Syrian territory to empower and rearm its regional proxies, specificall

S8 Ep955: (3) Finally, the pair shifts to Persian diplomacy and the "dispensation for deception." Germanicus explains how Iran uses strategic deceit to survive existential threats, specifically aiming to separate United States interests from Israel. They speculat

S8 Ep955: (2) Continuing their debate, Gaius and Germanicus debunk the "Thucydides Trap," labeling it a modern "literary invention" rather than a historical law. They argue the Peloponnesian War was not an inevitable clash but was triggered by Pericles baiting Spar

S8 Ep955: (1) In 92 AD, at their Londinium wine bar, Gaius and Germanicus critique the "American way of war," arguing it has failed by abandoning war's sacred ritual roots. In antiquity, war forged civic bonds and served as an apotheosis where performance and sacri

S8 Ep954: (8) Bob Zimmerman concludes by revisiting the Apollo 1 catastrophe, where three astronauts died due to "hubris" and careless engineering on the launchpad. This failure forced NASA to adopt total honesty, resulting in critical safety redesigns like the

S8 Ep954: (7) Bob Zimmerman describes how the mission's return depended on a high-stakes Trans-Earth Injection burn, after which Jim Lovell famously radioed that "there is a Santa Claus." Zimmerman describes a navigation crisis where Lovell accidentally wiped the c

S8 Ep954: (6) Bob Zimmerman shares the backstory of the iconic Earthrise photo and the legendary Christmas Eve broadcast. He clarifies that while there was friction over who took the photograph, Bill Anders captured the famous color version. For the broadcast, whic

S8 Ep954: (5) Bob Zimmerman reflects on the Cold War context of 1968, a year defined by Vietnam, riots, and political assassinations. Zimmerman disputes the idea that NASA had a "military culture," describing it instead as a civilian organization using World War II

S8 Ep954: (4) Bob Zimmerman recounts how, during the critical Lunar Orbit Insertion, the crew fired the SPS engine behind the moon with no communication and no backup; failure meant certain death. Upon arrival, the astronauts were initially disappointed by the moon

S8 Ep954: (3) Bob Zimmerman examines the Soviet Zond program, noting that failures like Zond 4's self-destruction and Zond 6's atmosphere loss prevented the Russians from launching cosmonauts first. This created a vacuum that NASA manager George Low filled by propo

S8 Ep954: (2) Bob Zimmerman details the December 21, 1968, launch and the historic trans-lunar injection that sent humans toward another planet for the first time. Zimmerman describes the Saturn 5 ride as surprisingly smooth compared to Gemini rockets, despite the

S8 Ep954: (1) Bob Zimmerman introduces the Apollo 8 crew—Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and Bill Anders—noting their deep military backgrounds and commitment to American ideals. Borman is described as an intensely honest leader driven by duty, while Lovell is characteri

S8 Ep953: (8) Timothy Ryback recounts how on January 30, 1933, Hitler is finally summoned to become Chancellor. The appointment hinges on a frantic, last-minute negotiation in Hindenburg's foyer with media mogul Alfred Hugenberg, who reluctantly joins the coalition

S8 Ep952: (7) Timothy Ryback describes how on January 28, 1933, the political crisis peaks as Kurt von Schleicher confronts Hindenburg, requesting martial law to stabilize the disintegrating Nazi threat. Hindenburg, increasingly stubborn and weary of Schleicher's m

S8 Ep952: (6) Timothy Ryback explains that by early 1933, the Nazi Party faces financial ruin, owing an estimated 90 million marks, and continues to lose ground in state elections. To exploit this weakness, Chancellor Kurt von Schleicher attempts to split the NSDAP

S8 Ep952: (5) Timothy Ryback recounts how the November 1932 defeat leaves the Nazi Party in a state of gloom, leading many to believe Hitler is "washed up." However, political desperation drives Franz von Papen to reach out to Hitler, hoping to salvage his own unpo

S8 Ep952: (4) Timothy Ryback describes how, during the fall campaign of 1932, Hitler pioneers the use of an airplane to reach "heartland Germany," visiting up to six locations daily. This allows him to bypass a government radio ban and reach rural voters untouched

S8 Ep952: (3) Timothy Ryback explains how, following Hitler's refusal to join a coalition, the Nazis adopt a strategy of "obstructionist politics" to paralyze the Reichstag. With 230 seats, they create a legislative gridlock, preventing any laws from passing and fo

S8 Ep952: (2) Timothy Ryback introduces the key power brokers of the 1932–1933 drama. On Hitler's side is Gregor Strasser, the gregarious "socialist" organizer who built the party's national infrastructure while Hitler provided the nationalist fanaticism. Opposing

S8 Ep952: (1) Timothy Ryback describes how on August 13, 1932, Adolf Hitler meets President Paul von Hindenburg in Berlin. Despite the Nazis holding 37% of the electorate, Hindenburg refuses to grant Hitler the chancellorship, offering instead a secondary role in a

S8 Ep951: ### **Bazball Blunders and Vandalizing Cockatoos** Guest Jeremy Zakis critiques England’s aggressive "Bazball" cricket strategy, noting Brendan McCullum’s new five-point plan focused on professionalism and pressure management for the upcoming Ashes. Zakis

S8 Ep951: Preview for Later Today: Jeremy Zakis reports that warm weather has disrupted snake hibernation, keeping venomous brown and red-belly black snakes active in suburban areas. Simultaneously, a massive mouse plague continues to ravage Western and South Au

S8 Ep951: Preview for Later Today: Jeremy Zakis details Australia's winter weather, warning of a severe storm hitting Western Australia that will soon bring floods to the east. He explains how El Niño and the Indian Ocean Dipole create a "vacuum" effect, drawing An

S8 Ep950: (8) Josiah Osgood explains that following his death, Cato became a "Stoic saint" and a symbol of lost liberty, celebrated by poets like Virgil and Lucan. Caesar's attempt to trash his memory in the Anti-Cato failed to dim Cato's luster as a noble martyr.

S8 Ep950: (7) Josiah Osgood describes the Civil War's onset as Caesar crossed the Rubicon, prompting Pompey and Cato to evacuate Italy for the East. Caesar utilized a strategy of clemency and maintained iron discipline, even executing mutineers in the Ninth Legion.

S8 Ep950: (6) Josiah Osgood recounts Caesar's campaigns in Britain and the subsequent Great Gallic Revolt led by the charismatic Vercingetorix. While Caesar fought for survival and glory, Cato exploited his struggles in Rome to portray him as a power-hungry threat.

S8 Ep950: (5) Josiah Osgood explains that by 58 BCE, Caesar's allies sent Cato to Cyprus to liquidate its treasury, a mission Cato performed with obsessive rectitude. Simultaneously, Caesar departed for Gaul, building a formidable military reputation and a deep bon

S8 Ep950: (4) Josiah Osgood describes how Cato's obstructionism forced Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus into an unexpected alliance to advance their interests. Crassus, a wealthy and "shady" financier, funded Caesar's lavish games as an aedile to secure political favor.

S8 Ep949: (3) Josiah Osgood introduces Pompey the Great, whose return from the East sparked tension as Cato blocked his arrangements while Caesar initially supported him. The Bona Dea scandal further inflamed the rivalry; Clodius crashed a female-only rite at Caesa

S8 Ep949: (2) Josiah Osgood details the 63 BCE Catilinarian conspiracy, where Caesar proposed permanent arrest for conspirators instead of execution. Cato countered with a powerful speech advocating death, successfully swaying the Senate and accusing Caesar of invo

S8 Ep949: (1) Josiah Osgood explains that in 64 BCE, Cato and Caesar briefly cooperated in a "murder court" targeting those who profited from Sulla's brutal proscriptions. Cato, driven by rectitude and a fear of strongmen, sought to return stolen wealth to the trea

S8 Ep948: (8) James Tabor concludes by examining the "Q Source," a collection of Jesus' teachings found in Matthew and Luke. He identifies a shared theological tradition among John the Baptist, Jesus, and James, characterized by values like non-violence and the "

S8 Ep948: (7) James Tabor explores the Talpiot Tomb, a first-century family tomb discovered in 1980 containing ossuaries inscribed with names like "Jesus son of Joseph," "Maria," and "Yose" (a rare nickname for Jesus' brother). Tabor argues the specific cluster of

S8 Ep948: (6) James Tabor examines how, during the Jewish Revolt (66–70 CE), the movement fled Jerusalem for a "hideout" in Pella, Jordan. However, Mary disappears from the historical record before this event, likely dying on Mount Zion in the 50s or 60s. Tabor not

S8 Ep948: (5) James Tabor describes Mount Zion in Jerusalem as the world headquarters of the early movement. Archaeological evidence suggests the "Upper Room" sits atop a first-century foundation of a house-synagogue. In this space, Mary served as a matriarch and h

S8 Ep948: (4) James Tabor challenges the tradition that John the fisherman was the "beloved disciple" at the crucifixion, arguing instead that it was James, Jesus' blood brother. He positions James as the legitimate successor and leader of the "Nazarene movement" i

S8 Ep948: (3) James Tabor analyzes the Protevangelium of James, a mid-second-century text that established the tradition of Mary's perpetual virginity and her upbringing as a "vestal-like" figure in the temple. He contrasts this theological portrait with the histor

S8 Ep948: (2) James Tabor investigates the mysterious name "Pantera" (or Panta) found in early rabbinic sources, which refer to Jesus as "Yeshua bin Pantera." He explores historical evidence to determine if this was a family name or a specific individual, noting a

S8 Ep948: (1) James Tabor introduces the historical Mary through the city of Sepphoris, the urban capital of Galilee located just miles from Nazareth. Unlike the small village of Nazareth, Sepphoris was a bustling Roman "jewel" where Mary was born to parents Joachi

S8 Ep947: SCHEDULE THE JBS, 5-29-26. 457 THE AMBROSIAN ILIAD.R

S8 Ep946: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JBS, FEATURING BLISS AND VLAHOS. 5-29-2026 1890 TROJAN WAR.

S8 Ep945: (16) Lorenzo Fiori reports on a record-breaking Italian heat wave and the poor market reception of Ferrari's new electric vehicle, while noting that affordable Chinese EVs are rapidly becoming the top-selling cars in Italy.

S8 Ep945: (15) Conrad Black discusses Alberta's threat to secede from Canada if the federal government blocks oil pipelines, detailing the political maneuvering between Premier Danielle Smith, indigenous groups, and Prime Minister candidate Mark Carney.

S8 Ep945: (14) Henry Sokolski discusses Russia's "gray warfare" tactics against NATO, including drone provocations and sabotage of European infrastructure, warning that the United States is not taking these threats seriously enough compared to Europe.

S8 Ep945: (13) Henry Sokolski argues that no inherent "right to enrichment" exists under the NPT, warning that Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional power plants create dangerous targets and risk a "hot spot" of nuclear-armed nations.

S8 Ep945: (12) Gene Marks questions surveys claiming 93% small business growth and dismisses claims that AI will eliminate white-collar jobs soon, asserting that human workers will naturally adapt to new technology as they have historically.

S8 Ep945: (11) Gene Marks reports from Nashville that mid-market companies are aggressively adopting AI to supplement labor shortages rather than replace workers, while also navigating the complexities of receiving refunds for previously paid tariffs.

S8 Ep945: (10) Francis Rose explores the security risks of electronic health records, explaining how nation-states like China seek bulk data for espionage and how the government utilizes "zero trust" technology to deter sophisticated machine-speed hacks.

S8 Ep945: (9) Francis Rose details the Department of Veterans Affairs' ambitious rollout of a new electronic health record system in Michigan, aiming for a seamless "enlistment to grave" digital history for every member of the military.

S8 Ep945: (8) Bob Zimmerman discusses mysterious subsurface changes in the sun and conflicting data regarding water ice at the lunar South Pole, while highlighting Mars' "brain terrain" as evidence of significant ne(8) Bob Zimmerman discusses mysterious subsurface

S8 Ep945: (7) Bob Zimmerman examines a massive Blue Origin rocket explosion that has grounded the New Glenn program and delayed NASA's Artemis missions, leaving SpaceX as the only viable private partner for immediate lunar goals.

S8 Ep945: (6) Veronique de Rugy discusses a proposed California tax on billionaires, warning it will drive high earners away and reduce state revenue, while a competing initiative seeks to protect regular citizens' savings from taxation.

S8 Ep945: (5) Jim McTague reports on Lancaster County's economy, noting record-breaking gasoline sales at Costco despite rainy weather, the rise of retirement-driven healthcare, and local "Luddite" opposition to a proposed data center in Columbia.

S8 Ep945: (4) Professor Richard Epstein describes the Trump administration's $1.776 billion "slush fund" as a fraudulent private agreement, noting that despite its likely illegality, legal standing requirements make it difficult for anyone to successfully challenge

S8 Ep945: (3) Professor Richard Epstein analyzes the legal history of birthright citizenship and Donald Trump's executive order, arguing that the 14th Amendment has been misinterpreted and that the child's status should depend on the parent's.

S8 Ep945: (2) Jeff Bliss highlights Las Vegas's pursuit of an NBA team to complete its status as a global sports capital, while the Fertitta family acquires Caesar's Palace, consolidating power among the city's casino billionaires.

S8 Ep945: (1) Jeff Bliss discusses the Los Angeles mayoral race between incumbent Karen Bass, who faces criticism over homelessness and crime, and unconventional candidate Spencer Pratt, who utilizes social media and "guerrilla campaigning" to gain traction. 1900 H

S8 Ep944: Preview for Later Today: Jeff Bliss profiles Nithya Raman, a Democratic Socialist mayoral candidate in LA. He discusses her Hollywood ties, focus on homelessness, and the political impact of her progressive platform on the upcoming first city-wide electio

S8 Ep943: Preview for Later Today: Gene Marks explains how companies like Horton avoided 2025 tariff penalties by sourcing materials domestically. He highlights the importance of proactive business pivots to navigate rising costs for utilities, compensation, and ge

S8 Ep943: Preview for Later Today: Francis Rose provides updates on Veterans Affairs' implementation of AI-driven electronic health records. He observes a decrease in reported systemic failures compared to previous years, indicating much improved technological inte

S8 Ep943: Preview for Later Today: Henry Sokolski analyzes missile strikes targeting nuclear facilities in the Middle East involving Iran, its proxies, and the UAE. He argues these attacks emphasize the vulnerability of expensive nuclear energy compared to cheaper

S8 Ep943: Preview for Later Today: Bob Zimmerman details the catastrophic explosion of Blue Origin's New Glenn first stage during a static fire test. This failure destroys the launch pad and significantly delays Amazon's satellite launches and future lunar mission

S8 Ep943: Preview for Later Today: Bob Zimmerman explores 40 years of sunspot data revealing mysterious subsurface structural changes occurring 600 miles beneath the solar surface. Scientists currently lack the computer models to understand or accurately predict t

S8 Ep944: SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 5-28-26. 1890 VIKINGS

S8 Ep944: TREAMING MAKING JBS, FEATURING CONSTABLE AND MCTAGUE. 5-28-28 1903 POPULAR HISTORY OF FRANCE.

S8 Ep943: (16) Douglas Messier and David Livingston examine NASA's phased plan to establish a permanently crewed moon base by 2032. The timeline involves uncrewed test landings and orbital refueling to prepare for future human missions.

S8 Ep943: (15) Douglas Messier and David Livingston discuss the Starship 12 mission, which achieved significant milestones despite booster failures. NASA has also awarded major contracts to Blue Origin for lunar rovers and a specialized base lander.

S8 Ep943: (14) Simon Constable and Jim McTague discuss the leadership vacuum in the United Kingdom as internal Labour Party disputes intensify. Some elites are calling for Tony Blair's return while the Reform Party gains traction among dissatisfied voters.

S8 Ep943: (13) Simon Constable and Jim McTague examine global commodities and the economic impact of war, noting that high energy prices, including $8 diesel in France, are straining consumer budgets. While some commodity prices are stabilizing, the ongoing conflic

S8 Ep943: (12) Jeff McCausland discusses Russian casualties and NATO's growing nuclear anxiety, noting that Russia has reportedly suffered 500,000 deaths in Ukraine, creating severe manpower shortages. Consequently, European allies like France are considering movin

S8 Ep943: (11) Jeff McCausland analyzes the tense naval standoff between U.S. and Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz. Critics argue the administration failed to anticipate the blockade or effectively address regional Iranian proxies.

S8 Ep943: (10) Steven Mazie examines the Supreme Court's recent ruling in Louisiana v. Callais, which has disrupted primary elections by allowing the elimination of majority-minority districts. This reflects a long-term effort by the conservative majority to weaken

S8 Ep943: (9) Steven Mazie discusses Supreme Court challenges to birthright citizenship and the President's power over the Federal Reserve. Rulings could drastically redefine executive authority and independent federal agencies.

S8 Ep943: (8) Evan Ellis previews Pope Leo's historic visit to South America, including his former missionary grounds. In Argentina, President Milei struggles with declining approval as Peronist opposition organizes for future electoral challenges.

S8 Ep943: (7) Evan Ellis discusses legacies and alliances in Brazil, Venezuela, and Cuba, where Flavio Bolsonaro seeks U.S. alignment in Brazil, while the U.S. conducts military exercises near Venezuela. Meanwhile, the U.S. offers financial aid to Cuba to encourage

S8 Ep943: (6) Evan Ellis examines electoral crossroads in Colombia and Peru, with Colombia facing a choice between leftist and pro-U.S. candidates in its upcoming election. In Peru, Keiko Fujimori leads a narrow race with implications for regional security and Chin

S8 Ep943: (5) Evan Ellis describes turmoil in Bolivia, where supporters of Evo Morales have blockaded La Paz, causing severe humanitarian shortages. These groups utilize military-style tactics to protect drug territories and pressure the government while Morales ev

S8 Ep943: (4) Josh Rogin examines upcoming Section 301 investigations that will address Chinese forced labor and dumping. Simultaneously, a critical shortage of magnets from China is impacting the production of U.S. defense technology and fighter jets.

S8 Ep943: (3) Josh Rogin discusses the Trump-Xi summit, noting that the President's visit to Beijing featured major CEOs but yielded no new trade agreements. Both nations remain locked in a trade war with mismatched expectations regarding economic cooperation.

S8 Ep943: (2) Anatol Lieven examines the struggle for UK Labour Party leadership, where Andy Burnham is the preferred candidate to replace Keir Starmer but must first win a by-election. The rising Reform Party poses a significant threat to established political fig

S8 Ep943: (1) Anatol Lieven discusses Moscow's escalation and the future of Ukraine negotiations, noting that Russia has threatened targeted strikes on Ukrainian headquarters in Kyiv. High casualty rates and stalled front lines contribute to a mood of frustration i

S8 Ep941: Preview for Later Today: Evan Ellis describes the turmoil in Bolivia, where blockades by cocaleros and miners, driven by Evo Morales, have paralyzed La Paz in a narco-terrorist effort aimed at returning Morales to power.

S8 Ep942: Preview for Later Today: Anatol Lieven analyzes the stalemate in Ukraine, highlighting the exhaustion of both populations and the political unpopularity of mass conscription, even as leadership on both sides maintains maximalist positions regarding the on

S8 Ep942: Preview for Later Today: Steven Mazie details the Supreme Court case Trump v. Barbara concerning birthright citizenship, discussing Trump's challenge to the 14th Amendment and an AI tool predicting a lopsided judicial ruling against the former president.

S8 Ep942: Preview for Later Today: Jim McTague examines the hypothetical return of Tony Blair to lead Britain's Labour Party, questioning whether interest is genuine nostalgia or a reaction to Keir Starmer's leadership while recalling Blair's political history.

S8 Ep942: Preview for Later Today: Doug Messier describes NASA's innovative mission using robotic hoppers to survey the lunar South Pole, seeking water and potential sites for a future moon base through high-resolution imaging in the moon's environment.

S8 Ep941: Preview for Later Today: Josh Rogin discusses the Trump administration's shift toward a foreign policy that favors dealing with strongmen and dictators over promoting democratic values, potentially ceding strategic advantages to China in the process.

S8 Ep940: SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 5-27-26. APRIL 1900 OTTAWA.

S8 Ep939: STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING CHANG, FANELL, HOLT, BURTON, 5-27-26. 1901 PEKING.

S8 Ep938: Judy Dempsey discusses how the AfD has become Germany's leading political party by capitalizing on public anger over housing shortages and the government's handling of the wars in Iran and Ukraine. The party represents a growing threat to the establish

S8 Ep938: Judy Dempsey examines how the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran distracts from Russian aggression in Ukraine and causes economic sluggishness in Germany. European allies feel jaundiced by the lack of consultation from the U.S. regarding Middle Ea

S8 Ep938: Craig Unger discusses U.S. unreliability and the future of the NATO alliance, noting that under Trump, the United States is seen as an unreliable partner by allies like Finland, who fear he will not honor Article 5. This lack of reliability forces Europea

S8 Ep938: Craig Unger argues that Donald Trump has been a Russian intelligence asset since 1987. He highlights how Trump's first trip to the Soviet Union was followed by advertisements in U.S. newspapers featuring KGB talking points. (13)

S8 Ep938: Bob Zimmerman reports that the Webb telescope has detected weather variations, including morning clouds, on a distant exoplanet. Additionally, images from Mars show parallel ridges that suggest a history of climate cycles and the presence of significant n