The John Batchelor Show

SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-11-26.1900 BRUSSELSAnatol 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 deliberate attack on NATO members like the Baltics appear militarily absurd. (1)Anatol Lieven examines rising anti-immigrant tensions in the United Kingdom, where violent demonstrations in Belfastand England highlight growing public anger toward sudden demographic changes and crimes allegedly committed by asylum seekers. Lieven suggests these tensions are politically explosive, potentially forcing a leadership change in the Labour Party if right-wing parties continue to gain ground. (2)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 power to control the water cycle and shape resilient landscapes. (3)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 hedge political bets while hosting major US military assets. (4)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. North Korea, now an "arsenal of tyranny," leverages its military experience from the Ukrainian front lines to strengthen its regime. (5)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 prevent companies from exploiting gaps and advises retail investors of the national security risks these firms pose. (6)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 supernova, resulting from the explosion of a massive primordial star. (7)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 resolve long-standing mysteries regarding the aftermath of the Big Bang. (8)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 triggers and manage their chronic health symptoms. (9)Mickey Trescott describes how the core autoimmune protocol involves a strict 30-to-90-day elimination phase removing common triggers like grains, dairy, and nightshades. This "detective work" calms the immune system, allowing patients to systematically reintroduce foods to discover which specific ingredients negatively impact their health. (10)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 nutritional demands of the upcoming elimination and reintroduction phases. (11)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 empowering them to choose a diet that maintains their long-term vitality. (12)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 elected government, posing a significant risk to regional US allies. (13)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 foothold in Peru through control of critical infrastructure, including major ports, mines, and electricity. (14)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 restore security, mirroring historical law-and-order movements seen in neighboring South Americannations. (15)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 has revitalized urban life, despite international concerns regarding due process and human rights. (16)Four name/term corrections: (1) Grinkovich → Grynkewich (General Alexus Grynkewich, current SACEUR) (2) Labor Party → Labour Party (UK spelling per house style) (3) Laya Philip → Leila Philip (the actual author of Beaverland) (6) 126H list → 1260H list (Section 1260H of the NDAA — the standard reference)

STREAMING MAKING JBS, FEATURING EVAN ELLIS, 6-11-26.This audio transcript features a conversation between John Batchelor and Professor Evan Ellis regarding the current political and security landscape across several Latin American nations. The discussion highlights significant instability in Bolivia, where supporters of former leader Evo Morales have blockaded major cities, leading to severe shortages and potential military intervention. In Peru and Colombia, the speakers analyze recent election cycles defined by deep polarization between hardline law-and-order candidates and leftist movements associated with the "marginalized" population. The dialogue also addresses Brazil's shifting political polls and the complex legacy of the Bolsonaro family amidst ongoing corruption scandals. Finally, the source provides a firsthand account of the dramatic transformation in El Salvador under President Nayib Bukele, noting that his popular but controversial methods have successfully revitalized the nation's safety and infrastructure.

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 has revitalized urban life, despite international concerns regarding due process and human rights. (16)1920

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 restore security, mirroring historical law-and-order movements seen in neighboring South Americannations. (15)1900 Bogota

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 foothold in Peru through control of critical infrastructure, including major ports, mines, and electricity. (14)1910

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 elected government, posing a significant risk to regional US allies. (13)1900

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 empowering them to choose a diet that maintains their long-term vitality. (12)1897 BRUSSELS

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 nutritional demands of the upcoming elimination and reintroduction phases. (11)1900

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 nutritional demands of the upcoming elimination and reintroduction phases. (11)1898 BRUSSELS

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 triggers and manage their chronic health symptoms. (9)1849 BRUSSELS

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 resolve long-standing mysteries regarding the aftermath of the Big Bang. (8)1919

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 supernova, resulting from the explosion of a massive primordial star. (7)1919

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 prevent companies from exploiting gaps and advises retail investors of the national security risks these firms pose. (6)1919

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. North Korea, now an "arsenal of tyranny," leverages its military experience from the Ukrainian front lines to strengthen its regime. (5)1919

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 hedge political bets while hosting major US military assets. (4)1919

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 power to control the water cycle and shape resilient landscapes. (3)1890

Anatol Lieven examines rising anti-immigrant tensions in the United Kingdom, where violent demonstrations in Belfastand England highlight growing public anger toward sudden demographic changes and crimes allegedly committed by asylum seekers. Lieven suggests these tensions are politically explosive, potentially forcing a leadership change in the Labour Party if right-wing parties continue to gain ground. (2)1919

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 deliberate attack on NATO members like the Baltics appear militarily absurd. (1)1919

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.1951 Korea

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 resources.1945

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 communities.1909

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 results.

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 ecosystems.

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 fail.1919

SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-10-26.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 special forces to Russia. Kim is also modernizing his security apparatus into a structure similar to Russia's FSB. (1)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 losses the U.S. historically endured, Holmes believes they still lag behind in technological sophistication and human tactical proficiency. (2)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. Coates also discusses the political friction in Washington regarding arms sales and the need for Taiwan to increase its own defense spending. (3)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, Coates criticizes the Biden administration for prioritizing climate goals over addressing China's use of forced labor in the solar panel supply chain. (4)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 financial but serve to buy long-term political influence and goodwill with American policymakers, regardless of party affiliation, by embedding Qatari wealth into the U.S. economy. (5)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 Qatarifunding, citing a lawsuit that revealed nearly half a billion dollars in undisclosed money sent to Texas A&M University, and calls for stricter U.S. disclosure laws. (6)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. Kotkin also warns of "techno-fascism," where a small group of global tech companies exert unprecedented control over public opinion and information through surveillance tools. (7)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 together by Donald Trump's personality. Kotkin emphasizes that using the term as a political slur ruins the possibility of necessary civil discourse. (8)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 have created a domestic manufacturing crisis, leading to fuel shortages for Russian agriculture and industry that are difficult to repair under sanctions. (9)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 production of nearly 14 million barrels per day. These factors combined help lower global oil prices despite declining inventories in other OECD countries. (10)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 Scaliapopularized "originalism" and "textualism," arguing that the Constitution should be interpreted based on the original public meaning of the text rather than through subjective "moral readings" by judges. (11)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. Fortgang also observes that the modern partisan venom in confirmation hearings began during Scalia's era with the contentious treatment of Robert Bork and Clarence Thomas. (12)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. Constable attributes the unrest to a failure of both major parties to manage unfettered immigration and the lack of cultural integration. (13)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 Ashcroftshowing that a vast majority of Labour, Liberal Democrat, and Green voters—and even a third of Conservatives—now favor rejoining the European Union after a decade of Brexit. (14)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, contrasted with SpaceX's efficiency. Zimmerman also reports on a milestone for SpaceX, as a single Falcon 9 booster successfully completed a record 35th flight. (15)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 current Big Bang theories. Finally, Zimmerman provides an update on the Curiosity rover as it travels through the "Grand" valley on its ascent of Mars. (16)Two name fixes: Joel Cotkin → Joel Kotkin (7, 8) — the urbanist/scholar's correct spelling Natalie Eacano → Natalie Ecanow (5, 6) — the FDD scholar's correct spelling

STREAMING MAKING JBS, FEATURING GIORDON CHANG, JIM HOLMES, GREG SCARLATOIU, VICTORIA COATES, 6-1-26.1905 SHANGHAIThe provided transcript features a series of discussions between John Batchelor, Gordon Chang, and various experts regarding the strategic and economic challenges posed by China and North Korea. Early segments focus on Kim Jong-un's tactical shifts, specifically his strengthening of internal security and the tacit acceptance of North Korea's nuclear status by China. The dialogue then shifts to maritime strategy, analyzing the expansion of the People's Liberation Army Navy and its ambition to field a fleet of aircraft carriers to rival the United States. Further segments examine the critical importance of Taiwan and the global reliance on TSMC for advanced semiconductors, which creates a high-stakes bottleneck for artificial intelligence. Finally, the speakers address economic security, highlighting the Pentagon's blacklisting of Chinese firms and the push for country-of-origin labeling to combat forced labor and military entanglement. Throughout the text, the experts emphasize that Chinese diplomacy and industry are inextricably linked to the state's military and geopolitical objectives.

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 current Big Bang theories. Finally, Zimmerman provides an update on the Curiosity rover as it travels through the "Grand" valley on its ascent of Mars. (16)1913

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, contrasted with SpaceX's efficiency. Zimmerman also reports on a milestone for SpaceX, as a single Falcon 9 booster successfully completed a record 35th flight. (15)192022

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 Ashcroftshowing that a vast majority of Labour, Liberal Democrat, and Green voters—and even a third of Conservatives—now favor rejoining the European Union after a decade of Brexit. (14)1890

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. Constable attributes the unrest to a failure of both major parties to manage unfettered immigration and the lack of cultural integration. (13)1910 SUFFRAGE

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. Fortgang also observes that the modern partisan venom in confirmation hearings began during Scalia's era with the contentious treatment of Robert Bork and Clarence Thomas. (12)1930

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 Scaliapopularized "originalism" and "textualism," arguing that the Constitution should be interpreted based on the original public meaning of the text rather than through subjective "moral readings" by judges. (11)1923 SCOTUS

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 production of nearly 14 million barrels per day. These factors combined help lower global oil prices despite declining inventories in other OECD countries. (10)1903

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 have created a domestic manufacturing crisis, leading to fuel shortages for Russian agriculture and industry that are difficult to repair under sanctions. (9)1900

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 together by Donald Trump's personality. Kotkin emphasizes that using the term as a political slur ruins the possibility of necessary civil discourse. (8)1936

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. Kotkin also warns of "techno-fascism," where a small group of global tech companies exert unprecedented control over public opinion and information through surveillance tools. (7)BERLIN 1940

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 Qatarifunding, citing a lawsuit that revealed nearly half a billion dollars in undisclosed money sent to Texas A&M University, and calls for stricter U.S. disclosure laws. (6)1705

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 financial but serve to buy long-term political influence and goodwill with American policymakers, regardless of party affiliation, by embedding Qatari wealth into the U.S. economy. (5)1904 DOHA

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, Coates criticizes the Biden administration for prioritizing climate goals over addressing China's use of forced labor in the solar panel supply chain. (4)

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. Coates also discusses the political friction in Washington regarding arms sales and the need for Taiwan to increase its own defense spending. (3)1904 BEIJING

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 losses the U.S. historically endured, Holmes believes they still lag behind in technological sophistication and human tactical proficiency. (2)

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 special forces to Russia. Kim is also modernizing his security apparatus into a structure similar to Russia's FSB. (1)

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 Western world's reserves.

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.1894

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 adversarial missile fire.1880 

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.1945

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.1952

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.

SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-9-2026.JUNE 1957.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 private investment is currently driving U.S. economic prosperity while Europe struggles with over-regulation and high energy costs. (1)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 abolition of prisons, drug use without judgment, and anti-Israel positions funded by extremist-linked donor groups. (2)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 IRGCleadership decapitation by Israel and suggests the regime is flailing due to internal disarray and chaos. (3)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. Schanzer warns that Qatar and Turkey remain primary patrons for the radical Muslim Brotherhoodextremist group. (4)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 creating a stalemate against Russia and fostering a burgeoning, globally sought-after military-industrial complex within the war-torn country. (5)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 Milei, the latter implementing a conservative agenda that is successfully reducing soaring Argentine inflation. (6)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 rates and stimulate domestic consumption to revitalize its slowing, multi-trillion dollar communist national economy. (7)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 Reform Party is successfully poaching Labour's traditional working-class voters in various important regional British parliamentary by-elections. (8)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 and discusses how new global oil sources are currently mitigating Iranian threats. (9)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 that internal public response in Iran is far more effective than military commando raids. (10)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 civil war and the complex regional power struggle over control of the vital Red Sea. (11)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 authority and success of constitutional monarchy as practiced today. (12)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 constitution or the broader American general voting public. (13)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 incentives to intentionally fail these tests to avoid the death penalty in federal court. (14)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 Russiapossesses thousands of non-strategic weapons, far exceeding current NATO theater capabilities and its lack of transparent weaponry numbers. (15)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 NATOlacks a comparable response in Asia, as the US withdrew similar theater weapons in 1991. (16)

STREAMING THE MAKING OF JBS, FEATURING THADDEUS MCCOTTER, 6-9-2026.1901 CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLICThaddeus McCotter, a former member of Congress from Michigan, serves as a colleague and co-host for the program. Drawing on his experience as a veteran of multiple midterm election cycles, he provides analysis on the current political landscape, focusing on the intersection of the economy, foreign policy, and the rise of populism.On the midterm environment, McCotter asserts that the economy is the number one issue for voters and will define the midterm, noting that when there are problems with "war and peace" and the economy simultaneously, it creates a "terrible midterm" for the party in power. He argues that the Republican party is struggling because its "failure to get out of the way and let its policies succeed" has allowed socialist ideologies to gain traction, and notes a "civil war" within the GOPbetween the MAGA movement and the established party infrastructure. He suggests that the Republican party must find a way to energize its base, as Democrats are highly energized not only by a personal dislike of Trump but by the negative impact of current policies.McCotter is highly critical of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), describing it as a "strictly far-left entity" currently in a "civil war" with the Democratic establishment. He characterizes the DSA as offering "free stuff" to attract voters and believes they attempt to change reality by changing language, such as using terms like "unhoused" or "the homeless experience." He specifically criticizes the DSA-aligned response to homelessness in Seattle, where "dog-sized" sheds were built for the "unhoused" during the World Cup, describing this as shunting "badly damaged" people aside rather than addressing the underlying issues of mental illness and chemical dependency. He observes that the DSA has significant "youthful energy" because young people feel the American dream is beyond their reach due to current economic regulations and the high cost of living.On Donald Trump, McCotter offers a nuanced view: he interprets Trump's statement about not wanting to be "Jimmy Carter" as a sign that he does not want his presidency or maneuvering ability to be held "hostage" to Iran policy. He expresses skepticism regarding Trump's decision to attend a Knicks game during a period of economic concern, arguing that such actions can lead voters to feel the president is not focused on the issues they care about, specifically the cost of living. He views Trump as a "magnifier" of existing political disorder rather than the sole cause, noting that Trump has successfully taken advantage of this disorder through his rhetoric.McCotter notes that Michigan experienced significant population loss following COVID-19, attributing this partly to "draconian" lockdowns under Governor Whitmer and a business environment that struggles to attract new industry. He highlights a broader trend of "the well-to-do" leaving high-tax states like New York, California, and Michigan for states like Florida, Texas, and Tennessee.McCotter concludes that the current political "consternation" is a result of both parties engaging in internal battles, suggesting that eventually the country will look for "calm, seasoned leadership" once these "civil wars" are settled.

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 NATOlacks a comparable response in Asia, as the US withdrew similar theater weapons in 1991. (16)1953