The Derek Hunter Podcast

Dean Karayanis, columnist for the New York Sun, welcomes back his half-Greek writing partner from the Rush Limbaugh Show and former producer of The Drudge Report, George “Koko” Prayias for a fun look at the world's serious issues. The episode debuts “One-and-a-Half Greeks” new theme song. It's a little bit country, but the show is all Rock and Roll. The discussion covers the left's embrace of Tax Day and hiking taxes on “the rich,” in the person of Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Democrats used to stay quiet on this day because America was built on a tax rebellion, but they've changed the electorate and now it's a holiday — even though Americans will work for the government this year from January 1 to April 26, projected as Tax-Freedom Day. The war in Iran illustrates another break with the past, as Senators Schumer, Gillibrand, and Fetterman all find themselves targeted by the ascendant antisemite, socialist wing of their party. Swalwell is an indication that they will take down anyone who gets in their way, aiming the same anger at old-school Democrats that they once reserved for Republicans. Even Pope Leo, who George — as a life-long Catholic — laments is a “Chicago Machine Pope,” has decided to go all-in on the global effort to halt Trump's agenda and rein in America. That this puts them on the side of the terrorist regime in Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah doesn't embarrass them. But at least the fiction that the groups aren't all one in the same has been exposed by the ayatollahs' own admission.

Dean Karayanis dives into the shifting media landscape and the latest political firestorms. Dean opens with a candid discussion on his approach to commentary: refusing to pander or condescend to readers and listeners with references because respecting the listener's intelligence is a lost art in modern commentary. The episode features a deep dive into the recent allegations against Eric Swalwell, critiquing the media's hesitant questioning compared to past Republican scandals. Dean also analyzes Nancy Pelosi's defensive posture during interviews and the strategic errors Republicans make when Democrats are "destroying themselves." Dean breaks down the Strait of Hormuz blockade, the effectiveness of U.S. naval defenses against Chinese-supplied hypersonic missiles, and why the "comprehensive ceasefire" rhetoric from China and Iran falls short of reality. From the Frank Sesno-style of soft-ball journalism to the "frank anti-Semitism" of Hezbollah, this episode is a masterclass in connecting historical context to today's headlines. Dean also discusses a History Author Show interview from ten years ago with Nathan Stoltzfus, author of "Hitler's Compromises: Coercion and Consensus in Nazi Germany," as a contrast to the Iranian regime and its proxies who are more in the Stalin mode of dictators.

What was he thinking?

Dean Karayanis breaks down a whirlwind Monday in global politics. From the shifting sands of the Middle East to Vitor Orban's loss in Hungary, Dean cuts through the "access media" noise to find the truth behind the headlines. The Iran Ultimatum: Dean analyzes President Trump's bold Sunday declaration of a naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz. He explores why the media's World War III predictions keep falling flat and examines the reality of Iran's "extortion tolls" on international shipping. A look at the shocking election results in Hungary. Dean discusses what the end of the 16-year "strongman" rule means for American conservatives who rely on endorsements rather than local campaigning, and expresses mock surprise that a supposed “authoritarian” conceded. The Battle for History: Addressing his latest column in the New York Sun, Dean says Al Sharpton's call for black Americans to boycott the America 250 celebrations erases the service of thousands of Black patriots like Crispus Attucks — the first man killed in the American Revolution. The "America First" Democrat: Why is Senator John Fetterman the only prominent Democrat willing to root for American interests against Iran? Dean compares Fetterman's "civilization over chaos" stance with the "deranged" defeatism of New York Times columnist Tom Friedman. Economic Realities: Why are egg prices collapsing, and why isn't the media giving the current administration a shred of credit for market recovery?

Here's what I would tell him he should do.

Evil, corrupt or stupid? Maybe all three?

These people are evil and corrupt.

Never Get High on Your Own Supply

Dean Karayanis, New York Sun columnist and former Rush Limbaugh staffer, delivers a fast‑moving, historically grounded, and sharply opinionated monologue that blends humor, cultural memory, and political critique. He opens with a Mel Brooks WWII anecdote — using it as a springboard to contrast Allied sacrifice with the brutality of Iran's regime and how a Jewish kid from Brooklyn and Nazis could give each other their due but President Trump's critics cannot. From there, its reflections on the recent U.S. rescue of a downed airman in Iran, arguing that critics refuse to acknowledge success because it disrupts their preferred narrative about President Trump and American military capability. Dean skewers foreign commentators, media outlets, and political figures who frame the rescue as a “failure” or “gamble,” highlighting what he sees as deliberate distortion. He draws on pop‑culture touchstones — Batman Begins, Jaws, Rambo — to illustrate how institutions and pundits often move the goalposts, dismiss victories, or twist facts to maintain a predetermined storyline. Throughout the episode, he contrasts Hollywood cynicism with real‑world heroism, emphasizing the value America places on rescuing its own. The conversation expands into broader reflections on war reporting, historical amnesia, and the persistence of anti‑American sentiment. Karayanis cites military assessments, past conflicts, and media behavior during hurricanes and crises to argue that critics are invested not in accuracy but in undermining the administration. He closes by examining Trump's version of Nixon's “Madman Theory” ahead of his warning that Tuesday will be “Power Plant and Bridge Day” when they're destroyed — framed as strategic psychological pressure — and advises not to let partisan narratives overshadow the reality of American success on the battlefield.

Get rid of the rest of the dead weight!

I'm not sure, but there is one Democrat who could fill it if there is.

There's no point to being in the majority if you allow rogue judges to overrule you all the time.

Democrats rally against America.

Dean Karayanis, columnist at the New York Sun and former Rush Limbaugh staffer, jumps into the week's political chaos from the anti-government “No Kings” protests to Iran and the midterms. He challenges how labels are used to shape public perception, citing that protesters “were out there just defying the government” and noting the double standard in how similar actions are described depending on who's involved. Dean also unpacks the bizarre uncertainty surrounding Iran's leadership, questioning why Western media treats the Ayatollah as alive despite no proof: “You can't negotiate with a ghost.” He draws parallels to pop culture — from Woody Allen's “Sleeper” to John Gill on the Nazi episode of “Star Trek” — to highlight how easily narratives can be manufactured. The episode then shifts to U.S. politics: Trump's messaging strategy, the GOP's internal fractures, and the danger of relying on personality over principles. Dean warns that Republicans must rediscover ideological consistency rather than “count on… everything going back to normal when he's gone.” He closes with media bias in coverage of war crimes, where analysis shows only Israel and America are ever accused of them but not Iran in the first three weeks of the war, as well as the geopolitical stakes of Iran's nuclear ambitions, and the overlooked voices of Iranians who oppose their regime. As always, Dean blends history, humor, and sharp critique to frame the week's events with context and clarity.

And they'll probably take him out soon.

They tell you their priorities, believe them.

No third option.

These people have none.

In this episode of the Derek Hunter Podcast, New York Sun columnist and Rush Limbaugh Show alum Dean Karayanis delivers a candid, no-holds-barred look at the intersection of military propaganda, political legacies, and the double standards of the American establishment. Military Fact-Check: A deep dive into the viral IRGC footage claiming to show a downed American F-35. Featuring insights from combat veteran Ryan Bodenheimer (Max Afterburner), Dean explains why the "thermal" evidence is likely AI-generated and why Iran's PR machine is their only successful front. The Robert Mueller Legacy: Following the death of the former FBI Director, Dean pushes back against the "secular sainthood" being granted by the media. He explores the fallout of the 2016 investigation, the concept of "process crimes," and why criticizing public figures is a fundamental American right. The Iran War & Global Security: An analysis of the strike on Diego Garcia and what it reveals about Iran's true missile capabilities. Dean discusses the vindication of Reagan's SDI (Star Wars) vision and the shifting stances of European allies like Spain and the U.K. as the threat reaches their borders. Cultural Commentary: From the passing of Chuck Norris to the pervasive rise of gambling in pro sports, Dean tackles how "politics" is selectively used to overshadow legacies and the unexpected areas where he finds common ground with AOC.

Just kidding, they've always loved Nazis.

Everyone's got an axe to sell, er, grind.

Dean Karayanis, former Rush Limbaugh staffer and New York Sun columnist, steps in for Derek Hunter. The show digs into the 2026 war with Iran, a critique of media "elites," and a reflection on the shifting tides of American foreign policy and cultural resilience. The New York Times' skepticism regarding Israel's "decapitation" strategy against Iranian leadership is debunked with historical parallels to the fall of the Nazi regime. Dean pulls no punches on the resignation of National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent, the "trust policies" of Fairfax County that he argues are endangering citizens, and the curious silence of the "Arab Street" as Iran's proxies face dismantling. The episode rounds out with a cultural critique — moving from the "woke" re-branding of Texas Democrats to the aspirational, colorblind philosophy of Star Trek's original series. It's a masterclass in connecting historical precedent to the chaotic reality of 2026. The Iran Conflict: Why "decapitating" leadership works and why the media is desperate to find "pragmatic" terrorists. NATO & The "Ugly American": A look at France and Ireland's critiques of U.S. policy and why Dean agrees with Lord Palmerston that nations have no permanent allies, just permanent interests. Domestic Security: The tragic murder of Stephanie Minter and the "trust policies" hampering law enforcement. Star Trek Philosophy: What Kirk, Uhura, and Lincoln can teach us about not fearing words in a hypersensitive age.

Sometimes the worst people are your "friends."

Dean Karayanis, Rush Limbaugh staffer and columnist at the New York Sun, delivers a fast-paced analysis of the ongoing conflict in Iran, contrasting current military actions with historical precedents. Despite media negativity and "Trump Derangement Syndrome," the Trump Administration's aggressive stance is a necessary victory against a regime that has threatened — and taken — American lives since the 1979 hostage crisis. Key discussion points include: The War in Iran: Touting military's success, emphasizing that the U.S. has significantly degraded Iranian leadership and neutralized threats without suffering the high casualty rates seen in previous conflicts. Historical Comparisons: A dive into the 1983 invasion of Grenada and how President Reagan "reset the clock" for American prestige. A vintage “Saturday Night Live” parody of Time-Life illustrates how media attitudes toward military victory have shifted — and not for the better. The "Jolene Doctrine": A scathing critique of General Stanley McChrystal's recent comments, mocking McChrystal's use of Dolly Parton lyrics to criticize the war effort, questioning the general's own record regarding the Pat Tillman investigation and the Afghan withdrawal. Domestic Politics & Crime: Rather than focus on the terrorist and the ideology, the commonwealth attorney prosecuting the ROTC attack at Old Dominion, Ramin Fatehi, blames a "national sickness" — our Second Amendment rights — as if we haven't had that for 250 years, but open borders and importing people who hate us plays no role. President Trump gets blamed for three murders in a Utah national part because some park rangers — who are not law enforcement — may have been laid off. The broadside ignores that crime in America is down to levels not seen since 1900 under this presidency. A clip of James Carville claiming to be “an instrument of God's will” and proudly touting his “hate” and “Trump Derangement Syndrome” as expression of Christ's will. It's the ravings of an angry, bitter guy who's hilarious in his frustration about his party's failures — a frustration similar to a man in a house of prostitution who forgot his Viagra. St. Patrick's Day Special: Closing on a lighter note, Dean plugs his History Author Show interview with Irene Levy Baker on her book, “Cheers to McGillin's: Philly's Oldest Tavern,” that being McGillin's Old Ale House in Philadelphia, founded in 1860.

They're both Democrats

No one is afraid, we're just sick of it all.

Not sure which side some of these people are really on.

There's money in panic, but there's really nothing to be concerned about...yet.

In this episode of the Derek Hunter Podcast, guest host Dean Karayanis, New York Sun columnist and former Rush Limbaugh staffer, delivers a sharp-witted and historical analysis of the escalating conflict with Iran. Following the death of the previous Ayatollah, Dean mocks the appointment of his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, by the "Council of Experts" — a puppet organization designed to maintain a hereditary dictatorship under the guise of an Islamic “Republic.” He targets Western media, like the New York Times, for "romanticizing" the new leader as a "man of mystery" rather than a standard fanatic. The IRIS Dena vs. The Belgrano Strategy: A significant portion of the show is dedicated to Dean's recent column for the New York Sun, where he compares the recent sinking of the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena to the 1982 sinking of the ARA General Belgrano during the Falklands War. Just as the Argentine junta claimed the Belgrano was "sailing away" and outside an Exclusion Zone, Iran and its supporters are framing the destruction of the Dena as a war crime because it was in international waters. The Reality: Karayanis cites historical evidence—including a 1982 BBC interview with Margaret Thatcher and later admissions by the Belgrano's captain—to argue that "international waters" do not grant immunity to enemy combatants executing tactical maneuvers. In truth, the Dena was warned twice by the U.S. and offered safe harbor by India, but the captain chose to proceed, making the ship a legal military target. The Culture of Mockery and Free Speech: A broader critique of "useful idiots" in the West and the decline of creative freedom. Dean creative diversity, critiquing the "X-Men Reboot" social media account, arguing that modern writers have turned characters into political avatars for themsevles. He uses Nightcrawler and Magneto as examples of how true diversity includes diversity of belief and internal conflict. British "Tools of Hate": Dean mocks the U.K. labor government's labeling of the Union Jack and St. George's Cross as “symbols of hate,” exposed in a leaked report, a stance that outraged liberal (but not leftist) John Cleese. “The Germans” episode of Cleese's landmark series, “Fawlty Towers, illustrates that comedy is being stifled by people who refuse to analyze the "butt of the joke," which is often the person being unreasonable, not the victims of history. Dean concludes with a message of resilience, urging listeners to support the "flying machines" and the brave individuals fighting to dismantle the Iranian regime, while maintaining a sense of humor in the face of global tension.

There is little doubt she earned the invitation to leave.

Which is the bigger mess?

Now the fun begins.

Iran and principles...

In this high-energy, provocative episode, the guest host (filling in for Derek Hunter) delivers a raw, uncompromising breakdown of the reported deaths of the Iranian Ayatollah, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and dozens of high-ranking regime leaders. Drawing on his years working for Rush Limbaugh, the host argues that the "mystery" of how to handle tyrants has finally been solved through a return to the "Sunday Punch" philosophy of Theodore Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan. The episode dismantles common foreign policy "myths," specifically the idea that "you can't kill an idea." With a blend of dark humor and historical grit, the host posits that ideas live in heads—and when those heads are removed, the idea dies with them. He contrasts the current administration's forceful military action against decades of "mealy-mouthed" diplomacy, specifically calling out the failures of the Carter and Biden eras. Infused with pop-culture references—from Animal House and Pulp Fiction to Shaka Zulu—this episode is a victory lap for American strength, arguing that the only way to ensure peace is to make the price of "Death to America" slogans too high to pay.

Birds of a feather.

They aren't capable of functioning like normal human beings.

What a show!

Just stay out of the locker room, unless you're on the team

Dean Karayanis remembers his long-time boss, Rush Limbaugh, just a bit on the fifth anniversary of the GOAT returning his talent on loan from God. Team USA wins the gold, and some leftists decide they only love the country when they win. Team Canada and the country's PM are sore losers. Trump sends USS Mercy to Greenland and papers create a scandal by saying nobody knows why, when they don't bother to do the research. Russia sends an oil tanker steaming to Cuba — and Trump's blockade. Stephen A. Smith rips Democrats who are boycotting President Trump's State of the Union. Mexico's most-wanted drug dealer gets splattered as America expands its military footprint in the country. Chris Christie blames Trump for AOC thinking she can be president, joining the bipartisan condescension of mocking her as “just a bartender,” as if people don't love bartenders. Syria asks Germany not to return their refugees, calling them a security risk.

Leftists are the enemy

If this is the best of the best, we're screwed.

It's now or never for Trump, the next 2 years will suck.

Making an ass out of themselves on the world stage.

Dean Karayanis, New York Sun columnist, host of the History Author Show, and former member of Rush Limbaugh's highly overrated staff, sits in for Derek. Mondays are becoming a regular thing! Topics include highlighting the success of Angel Studios, which is out with the enjoyable “Solo Mio” starring Kevin James and will have “Young Washington” this summer. Plus, a discussion of how to look and presidents, some anecdotes, and warnings about “celebrity historians” who shade the facts. Marco Rubio tells NATO allies what they fear to hear. “Irish Twitter” gets angry at Dean for pointing out the aid and comfort so many in their country gave Nazi Germany and Hamas as they rushed to tout Seamus Culleton as an innocent Irish victim of “fascist” America, only to learn he fled his country on drug charges and abandoned his two beautiful little girls before marrying a U.S. citizen last year in hopes of avoiding deportation for overstaying his visa by 16 years. “In the future, everybody will be Hitler for 15 minutes,” with apologies to Andy Warhol, as the Democrats slowly move on from Trump being Hitler to the next Republican, as they have done since FDR likened his GOP opponent to the Fuhrer while World War II was still raging. The show closes with a word from the first president ever captured in audio, Benjamín Harrison, and another clip from the archives: President William McKinley.

They hide it right in plain sight.

We are ready to believe you...if you'd just speak already.

These people got problems.

It's not what you think.

Dean Karayanis, New York Sun columnist and former member of Rush Limbaugh's highly overrated staff, sits in for Derek on Monday. Topics include the Super Bowl's cultural impact, the Bad Bunny halftime show watched on mute, DOW 50,000, TrumpRX, justice for Benghazi, the HBO documentary that tries to make Mel Brooks a victim, and how Democrats are seizing on President Trump blundering by sharing a video he didn't watch all the way through, resulting in a second or two of an October "Lion King" parody of the Obamas slipping through. Republicans are running for the tall grass in the vain hope that it'll save them.

The idiot machine is running full steam.

They are too important to have to face economic realities.