Podcasts about Burning Bright

Chris Paul and Burning Bright slice into Wes Craven's 1996 classic Scream, a film that redefined horror, rewrote the rules, and made meta mainstream. They explore how Scream turned the genre inside out, balancing humor, fear, and self-awareness with a cast that captured an entire generation's coming of age. From the iconic Drew Barrymore opener to the film's commentary on culture's feedback loop, how movies shape us and we, in turn, shape movies, the duo breaks down why Scream still cuts deep nearly 30 years later. Their discussion peels back layers on everything from the film's sexual politics and generational cynicism to its eerie parallels with today's media landscape, propaganda, and perception of reality. Between jokes, ads, and deep dives into cultural meta, they reveal how Scream wasn't just about killers in masks, it was a mirror held up to the audience itself.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Narrative, Burning Bright welcomes Jon Herold for a deep exploration of unity: what it means, why it matters, and how it's being both weaponized and reclaimed in our time. The two unpack the balance between individual sovereignty and collective purpose, questioning how movements can stay authentic without fracturing under ego or manipulation. From spiritual alignment to political deception, they trace the battle between those seeking genuine connection and those exploiting division for control. Along the way, Burning Bright and Jon reflect on the lessons learned through Badlands Media's evolution, the importance of humility in leadership, and how faith and discernment can serve as anchors in a chaotic world. A candid, heartfelt dialogue about finding common ground without conformity, this episode reminds listeners that real unity isn't forced...it's forged.

In this fiery Wednesday edition of Devolution Power Hour, Jon Herold and Burning Bright dive deep into the shifting tides of Trump's economic and geopolitical maneuvers. The duo dissects the Trump–Xi trade tensions, the rare earths and semiconductor chess match, and what coordinated “decoupling” between the U.S. and China might really mean. They explore Scott Bessant's fiery remarks, Trump's new equity-stake strategy in key industries, and the moral implications of government seizing corporate control. Later, they break down Trump's cryptic comments about the “auto pen,” new revelations about Adam Kinzinger's 30 million lines of phone data, and Kash Patel's hints that the justice campaign is only beginning. With trademark banter, sharp analysis, and a few laughs (including a soft disclosure plug and some alpaca humor), this episode delivers a potent mix of global insight and Badlands chaos.

Burning Bright and Chris Paul break down Margin Call, a film that captures the cold, calculated collapse of Wall Street's moral compass. The hosts dissect the movie's depiction of greed, systemic evil, and the psychology behind financial power, drawing parallels between the 2008 crash and the controlled demolitions shaping today's world economy. They unpack the symbolism behind Jeremy Irons' “moral relativists,” the engineered volatility of markets, and how this film exposes the illusion of complexity that shields corruption. The conversation moves from macroeconomics to modern geopolitics, connecting Trump, China, and the Sovereign Alliance to the real-world financial “margin calls” happening now. Sharp, cinematic, and intellectually loaded, this episode turns a film review into a masterclass on power, perception, and financial warfare.

Burning Bright welcomes Shipwreck for a high-level discussion on the current state of the information war and how digital soldiers can adapt their strategy and mindset in 2025. Together, they analyze shifting narratives, propaganda fatigue, and the fine line between awareness and burnout. Shipwreck brings a grounded, female perspective to the frontline psychology of modern activism, how to stay clear-headed, emotionally balanced, and spiritually aligned while fighting against deception at scale. From information overload to the weaponization of empathy, this episode breaks down how posture, discernment, and self-awareness have become the most vital tools in today's Info War.

Jon Herold and Burning Bright go deep into the mechanics of global power as they unpack new revelations surrounding James Comey's indictment and Trump's strategic counteroffensive. The hosts explore how legacy intelligence networks, born from CIA covert programs and wartime continuity planning, are collapsing under their own corruption. They connect the dots between modern color revolutions, the infiltration of Western institutions, and the spiritual decay fueling the Deep State's desperation. With Trump's shutdown tactics, his National Guard maneuvers, and the unraveling of long-protected elites now taking center stage, Jon and Burning argue that the machine isn't just breaking, it's being dismantled by design. Packed with historical context, decoded symbology, and razor-sharp analysis, this episode captures the sense that the global order is finally running out of time.

Burning Bright welcomes Jon Herold for a high-level dive into the silent conflict unfolding beneath the headlines. Together, they map out how Trump's wartime authorities, the weaponization of government, and the controlled opposition dynamic all tie into a broader struggle for power, one waged through lawfare, psyops, and narrative control. From the Middle East peace maneuvers to Trump's declaration of war on drug cartels, they connect the dots between global and domestic theaters of war, showing how each move fits into the larger devolution framework. This conversation explores faith, sovereignty, and the unseen mechanics of a world in transition, where truth itself has become the ultimate battlefield.

Podcasts, reviews, interviews, essays, and more at the Ancillary Review of Books.Please consider supporting ARB's Patreon!Guest: Ursula WhitcherTitle: Burning Bright by Melissa ScottHost: Jake Casella BrookinsMusic by Giselle Gabrielle GarciaArtwork by Rob PattersonOpening poem by Bhartṛhari, translated by John BroughTranscribers: Kate Dollarhyde and John WM ThompsonReferences:North Continent RibbonIndra Das's The Last Dragoners of BowbazarFonda Lee's Green Bone books & game thereof w/ James Mendez HodesBruce Coville's Aliens Ate My Homework & Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon HatcherThomas Ha's Uncertain SonsScott's Trouble And Her Friends & Astreiant series, most recently Point of HeartsC.S. Lewis's PerelandraMargaret Weis & Tracy Hickman's Dragonlance novelsDon Daglow's Neverwinter NightsCommedia dell'arteThe Marvel Cinematic Universe franchiseLAN partiesC.J. Cherryh's Foreigner booksArkardy Martine's Teixcalaan booksIain M. Banks' Player of GamesNeal Stephenson's Snow CrashCameron Reed's Fortunate FallIain Softley's HackersWilliam Gibson's Blue Ant trilogyCharlie Jane AndersBruce SterlingMichael Swanwick's Stations of the TideUrsula's website & Bluesky

Jon Herold and Burning Bright unpack the latest twists in the information war, starting with Trump's carefully chosen words at rallies and how they signal a larger strategy at play. They explore the Comey indictment fallout, Brennan's denials, and how the media frames narratives to trap the public into compliance. The hosts dig into Trump's executive actions on Antifa and domestic terrorism, connecting them to RICO statutes and the broader case against the Deep State. Discussion also turns to the Pentagon's unusual Quantico meeting of generals, what it might mean for continuity of government, and how it ties into the shutdown brinkmanship in Washington. With sharp analysis and first-principles thinking, Herold and Burning Bright show how the long game is being played out in real time, through legal maneuvers, narrative control, and subtle but powerful military signals.

Chris Paul and Burning Bright dive into Sinners (2025), Ryan Coogler's stylish, vampire-infused crime drama. They unpack the film's layered mix of organized crime, race, and spirituality, exploring how the story of two brothers, Smoke and Stack, goes beyond surface-level culture war narratives. From period-piece reflections on Jim Crow and Prohibition to the symbolic power of music as both liberation and temptation, the hosts trace themes of freedom, fellowship, and deception. They spotlight how Coogler flips expectations: vampires sell “unity” while embodying enslavement, and entertainment becomes both healing and a trap. With sharp insights into character dynamics, cultural commentary, and theological undertones, Chris and BB argue that Sinners delivers more than anti-woke bait, it's a Trojan horse of deeper truths about power, consensus, and the human struggle between worldly desire and higher purpose.

Burning Bright welcomes Jordan Sather for a fast-moving exploration of accelerationism, information warfare, and the collapsing narratives of the regime. They dig into the idea that society is being intentionally sped up, politically, culturally, and spiritually, to force breaking points that expose corruption and awaken the public. From Trump's “paper tiger” comments about Russia to the fallout of Charlie Kirk's assassination and the Tylenol–autism firestorm, the conversation ties together psyops, censorship, and cultural chaos as tools of both control and revelation. Jordan brings sharp insight on how narratives are weaponized across media and geopolitics, while Burning Bright emphasizes first principles and spiritual grounding as the antidote to manipulation. Together, they ask whether acceleration is a trap, a strategy, or both, and how individuals can navigate the storm without losing discernment.

Jon Herold and Burning Bright dissect the week's chaos, from Trump's startling “paper tiger” jab at Russia to the broader game theory behind his UN speech and shifting Ukraine rhetoric. They dig into the legal gray zone of Antifa's domestic terror designation, why it lacks real teeth, and how media spin keeps Americans distracted from deeper psyops. The hosts explore YouTube's quiet admission of election interference, the Dallas ICE facility shooting with anti-ICE bullets, and the staged theater of consequence culture, showing how each event manipulates emotions to fracture unity. With a sharp focus on first principles, Herold and Burning Bright connect the dots between censorship, controlled opposition, and Trump's long-game strategy for sovereignty. It's an unfiltered conversation about narrative warfare, where nothing is as it seems and everything is by design.

Chris Paul and Burning Bright take a deep dive into the 1962 classic The Manchurian Candidate, exploring its eerie relevance more than sixty years later. From predictive programming and narrative disarmament to MKUltra-style conditioning, they unravel how the film foreshadowed political assassinations, mass brainwashing, and the manipulation of public perception. The hosts connect Frank Sinatra's role, Angela Lansbury's chilling performance, and the film's layered realities to modern psyops, false flags, and consensus formation in the information war. Along the way, they unpack concepts like intuition versus narrative, social incentive structures, and how propaganda conditions entire societies just as effectively as a programmed assassin. With sharp cultural insight and plenty of first-principles analysis, this episode challenges listeners to see through the storylines crafted for control and to resist the conditioning designed to keep us compliant.

Burning Bright and Chris Paul open this episode of The Narrative by confronting the psychological rollercoaster of the past week, asking how a movement processes both grief and resilience in the wake of tragedy. They explore the spectrum between blackpills and whitepills, despair versus hope, and what it means to choose perspective in the middle of information warfare. The hosts dissect media manipulation around Charlie Kirk's assassination, highlight Trump's strategic handling of chaos, and examine how psyops prey on emotional exhaustion. They also focus on how the true enemies of the MAGA core may be the very ones piloting our emotions in the fallout of trauma events like the Kirk assassination. With humor, candor, and sharp cultural insight, Burning Bright and Chris remind listeners that sanity itself is a weapon, and that staying grounded in truth and faith is the ultimate act of resistance.

Jon Herold and Burning Bright return for another intense round of the Devolution Power Hour, unpacking the fallout from Charlie Kirk's assassination and the psyops shaping the narrative battlefield. The hosts dig into the Rich Higgins memo to explain how cultural Marxist drivers and political warfare tactics are being used to divide the movement. They debate the hypocrisy of “cancel culture” on both sides, analyze Jimmy Kimmel's firing and Trump's strategic trolling of the media, and explore the FCC's growing role in shaping public broadcasting. The conversation shifts to Antifa, with Trump signaling a long-awaited terrorist designation that could open the door to asset seizures and expose the funding networks behind domestic extremism. Along the way, expect sharp humor, blunt honesty, and a refusal to take the easy narrative bait.

Burning Bright and Chris Paul dig into Godzilla Minus One, Takashi Yamazaki's striking 2023 take on the iconic monster. At first, the film feels like a standard kaiju entry, but it soon unfolds into a powerful character study and meditation on postwar Japan. The hosts break down Shikishima's arc from cowardice to redemption, drawing parallels between his personal journey and Japan's struggle with honor, shame, and survival in the shadow of humiliation. They highlight Yamazaki's stunning visual effects, achieved on a fraction of a Hollywood budget, and the film's refusal to explain away Godzilla—embracing him instead as a force of nature and a metaphor for existential threats. From kamikaze culture and engineered narratives to the lingering scars of national identity and the dangers of nihilism, Burning Bright and Chris Paul unpack why Godzilla Minus One resonates beyond its setting, offering lessons for sovereignty, resilience, and the fight against dehumanizing systems. A thoughtful and timely discussion that elevates a monster movie into a commentary on civilization itself.

Burning Bright and Ghost continue their deep dive into the Sovereign Alliance's battle against the Globalist Deep State, tracing the ripple effects of Charlie Kirk's assassination across the geopolitical landscape. They unpack how dark money networks tied to the event are being exposed and dismantled in unexpected theaters, from Middle Eastern power plays to shifts in European alliances. The hosts connect these developments to broader moves in the information war, showing how sovereign nations are beginning to reassert control against centralized globalist forces.  With sharp analysis, historical framing, and a focus on narrative warfare, they reveal how the struggle is unfolding across both visible conflicts and hidden financial currents. This episode challenges listeners to see the bigger picture, where tragedy, finance, and sovereignty collide in a world at a crossroads.

Jon Herold and Burning Bright reflect on the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk, calling it a national tragedy and a spiritual inflection point. They share heartfelt condolences for Kirk's family while warning listeners not to fall for fear or calls to violence that could be weaponized against the movement. The hosts analyze Trump's powerful statement framing the murder as an act of war, discuss John Solomon's reports of foreign intelligence leads, and consider how this moment could reshape America's political and cultural landscape. From questions of election interference and psychological warfare to the spiritual battle between good and evil, the conversation explores the stakes of this moment and the resilience needed to press forward. With honesty and urgency, they urge the audience to stay strong, reject demoralization, and recommit to building the America First movement together.

Chris Paul and Burning Bright take on M. Night Shyamalan's Split, unpacking its psychological horror and deeper symbolic layers. They highlight James McAvoy's performance as Kevin Wendell Crumb and his 23 personalities, drawing parallels to narrative warfare and how media offers different “alters” of the same central message. The hosts dive into the good twin/evil twin dynamic, centralization versus decentralization, and how propaganda thrives on consensus while truth does not. Their discussion branches into Trump's communication style, trauma as both a weapon and a source of resilience, and how cultural manipulation echoes MK Ultra–style conditioning. They also examine connections to modern gender debates, linking the “they/them” identity to collectivism versus sovereignty, and the biblical concept of Legion as hive-minded evil. Closing thoughts tie Casey's survival, rooted in her scars and trauma, to humanity's antifragility and the danger of weaponized victimhood. This episode blends film critique, philosophy, and cultural analysis, showing how Split serves as a metaphor for narrative control, sovereignty, and the battle between good and evil.

Burning Bright and Ghost dive into the Sovereign Alliance and the emergence of a Multipolar World Order, exploring how Donald Trump is helping dismantle the Western Globalist Hegemon using Fifth-Generation Warfare. They provide detailed analysis of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin and the Beijing Victory Parade, highlighting how these events signal a dramatic realignment of global power. The hosts also discuss India's rapprochement with China, underscoring how former rivals are moving toward cooperation in the face of Western decline. Rounding out the conversation, they trace how far back Trump's strategic alliances with Russia and Saudi Arabia go, showing the long game being played against globalist dominance. With sharp commentary, humor, and a focus on narrative warfare, this episode offers a big-picture look at the forces reshaping the world stage.

Jon Herold and Burning Bright return with a packed episode diving into Congress's messy Epstein file release, John Solomon's bombshell hints about thumb drives, and new revelations tying Russiagate back to the Clinton Foundation. They break down the role of whistleblowers, Tulsi Gabbard's intelligence shake-up, and how rerun narratives signal bigger disclosures ahead. The hosts also tackle Trump's use of the Alien Enemies Act, his kinetic strike on Venezuelan traffickers, and the broader fight to define presidential wartime authority through the courts. From devolution theory to sovereign “bros” geopolitics, Chicago crime, and Space Command's move to Alabama, this episode weaves lawfare, geopolitics, and narrative warfare into a sharp, funny, and deeply analytical conversation.

Chris Paul and Burning Bright dive into Sofia Coppola's Lost in Translation, unpacking its themes of alienation, paradigm shifts, and fleeting human connection. They explore Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson's unlikely bond in Tokyo, debating whether the film's ambiguity makes it profound or pretentious. The hosts tackle Coppola's directing choices, the infamous opening shot, and the controversy of Johansson's age during filming, weighing how Hollywood's “male gaze” and art-house ambitions collide. From existential dread to pseudo-intellectual musings, they contrast Murray's weathered perspective with Johansson's youthful searching, examining how both characters project fantasies of freedom while feeling trapped in different ways. Along the way, they connect the film's commentary on identity and artifice to the decline of the modern movie star, social media overexposure, and Hollywood's struggle to create new icons. The episode closes with reflections on ambiguous endings, fantasy vs. reality, and next week's pick, M. Night Shyamalan's Split. It's a thoughtful, critical, and often humorous exploration of a movie that lingers long after the credits roll.

Burning Bright sits down with Lt. General Steve Kwast for a wide-ranging and thought-provoking conversation on Trump's second term, the info war, and the challenges of leading in turbulent times. From the tightrope of communicating grand plans while facing enemy resistance, to the cultural battles of sovereignty, institutions, and self-determination, Kwast unpacks how strategy, patience, and resilience shape this era. The discussion moves through the administrative state, public-private partnerships, and the emerging space race, highlighting how innovation and national strength intertwine with global cooperation and competition. With insights on nuclear energy, deterrence, and the moral foundations needed to face the digital age, this episode blends geopolitics, philosophy, and leadership into an inspiring roadmap for America's future.

Jon Herold and Burning Bright kick off a fiery Wednesday edition of Devolution Power Hour with laughs, banter, and a surprisingly intense debate over whether men should ever wash new clothes. Once the dust settles, they dive into the serious business of John Durham's investigations, unpacking fresh revelations about FBI leaks, James Comey, and the media's role in manufacturing the Russia collusion narrative. The hosts connect these threads to Mark Elias' recent panic over Trump's military role in elections, highlighting how Democrats fear the collapse of their fraud machine. From Trump's bold RICO shot at George Soros to the Pentagon weighing equity stakes in defense contractors, the episode explores how national security and economic strategy are merging under Trump's leadership. Add in debates over 600,000 Chinese students, the fragility of Ivy League education in the age of AI, and Trump's promise of a free “American Academy,” and this episode serves up both sharp analysis and off-the-rails humor.

Burning Bright and Chris Paul break down Andrew Niccol's dystopian thriller In Time, where life itself is currency and timekeepers rule like central bankers. They explore the film's on-the-nose parallels to fiat money, inflation, usury, and the Cantillon Effect, comparing its “time chain” to Bitcoin's fixed protocol. The hosts connect themes of Darwinism, generational wisdom, and the emptiness of immortality to broader cultural critiques, highlighting how elites manipulate scarcity to control society. From Occupy Wall Street echoes to Trump's populist judo flips, they frame the movie as both a cautionary tale and a mirror to our financial and political systems. With sharp insights, humor, and plenty of rabbit holes, from diamonds to decentralization, this episode shows why In Time still resonates as a metaphor for the theft of human energy and purpose.

Burning Bright sits down with filmmaker Brad Zerbo to unpack his groundbreaking documentary CODEX 9/11. Fresh off its public premiere, the conversation dives into the overwhelming response from audiences, the years of research and writing that shaped the project, and the challenge of dismantling the official 9/11 story. Brad explains how he built a tightly constructed narrative designed to break through cognitive dissonance, presenting evidence that leaves viewers without an “escape route” back to the mainstream explanation. From theories of drone aircraft to the Operation Northwoods connection and questions about the missing passengers, this episode captures both the meticulous research and the emotional weight behind CODEX 9/11. With standing ovations in Deadwood and tens of thousands tuning in online, the film is already making waves, and this discussion reveals why. 

Jon Herold and Burning Bright dig into newly revealed evidence of DOJ corruption, exposing how investigations into the Clinton Foundation were deliberately shut down to protect political elites. They highlight James Clapper's admission that the Russia hoax was a “team sport,” raising fresh questions about the coordinated efforts of intelligence officials and their media allies. The hosts also examine Adam Schiff's leaks of classified material, the stripping of security clearances from rogue CIA officials, and how Trump is positioning himself with executive orders, whistleblower protections, and strategic appointments. Blending humor with sharp analysis, this episode connects the dots between past coverups, present-day revelations, and the moves being made to restore accountability.

Chris Paul and Burning Bright dive into Isaac Asimov's classic I, Robot, exploring the timeless questions it raises about technology, morality, and the human condition. They unpack the book's famous Three Laws of Robotics and discuss how these guiding principles shape the conflicts between humans and machines in Asimov's stories. The conversation highlights the ethical dilemmas of artificial intelligence, the tension between control and autonomy, and the parallels to today's rapidly advancing tech landscape. With thoughtful analysis and engaging commentary, the hosts connect Asimov's mid-20th century vision to modern debates on AI, surveillance, and the future of human freedom.

Football, bloody hell. City start off their home campaign in the most dramatic fashion, with McSlinky taking the three points for the Tigers at the death, following a breathless 90 minutes full of drama. The Gang attempt to dissect the game before looking ahead to the next game against Blackburn. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Herold, Burning Bright, and Chris Paul go live from The Great American Restoration Tour to break down newly revealed intel corruption and Trump's latest maneuvers. They spotlight James Clapper's admission of the Russia hoax as a “team sport,” Adam Schiff's role in leaking classified information, and the Obama DOJ's decision to shut down FBI corruption probes into the Clinton Foundation. The hosts also discuss Trump's Social Security shakeup, whistleblowers returning to the IRS, and an executive order aimed at securing America's pharmaceutical supply chain. From CIA officials stripped of clearances to the media acting as intel's propaganda arm, this episode delivers a raw, unfiltered look at the machinery of corruption, and the countermeasures being put in place to dismantle it.

Jon Herold and Burning Bright break down how political operatives, media outlets, and intelligence agencies work in concert to steer public opinion and protect entrenched interests. They trace the latest headlines back to coordinated influence campaigns, exposing how selective reporting, strategic leaks, and disinformation are deployed to shape events and narratives. The conversation covers key geopolitical developments, domestic power plays, and the deeper agendas driving them, while offering listeners practical insight into spotting manipulation in real time. It's a focused, detail-rich episode that pulls back the curtain on the forces moving behind the scenes.

Burning Bright and Chris Paul dive into Badlands (1973), Terrence Malick's haunting debut inspired by real-life events. They explore the film's unsettling blend of beauty and brutality, following the crime spree of Kit and Holly across the American Midwest. The hosts unpack Malick's unique storytelling style, the dreamlike cinematography, and how the film juxtaposes innocence with violence. Along the way, they discuss the performances of Martin Sheen and Sissy Spacek, the sparse yet impactful dialogue, and the ways the film challenges viewers to question morality, influence, and the romanticizing of outlaws. It's a layered conversation that connects the movie's themes to broader cultural narratives, making this episode as thought-provoking as the film itself.

Burning Bright welcomes GMoney for a high-level breakdown of global power structures, the forces reshaping them, and the shadowy players pulling strings behind the scenes. They explore the concept of the “World Eater,” a metaphor for the centralized systems consuming sovereignty, culture, and resources worldwide. From the rise of transnational organizations to the capture of national governments, the conversation examines how finance, technology, and psychological operations work in tandem to consolidate control. GMoney brings his perspective on digital economies, decentralization, and the role of blockchain in resisting these forces, while Burning Bright ties it all to historical patterns and narrative warfare. Together, they dissect current events through this lens, revealing how geopolitical, economic, and cultural battles are all fronts in the same overarching conflict. This episode delivers a sharp mix of macro-level strategy, real-world examples, and thought-provoking solutions for pushing back against the World Eater's advance.

Jon Herold and Burning Bright return for Episode 378 of Devolution Power Hour to unpack the latest narrative shifts and psyops as we barrel toward the 2024 election. The duo digs into Rasmussen's explosive poll showing 60% of voters suspect the CIA played a role in the assassination of JFK, then tie that distrust into the broader awakening of the American public. They explore the strange coincidences surrounding Meta's recent outage, hinting at predictive programming and election interference pretexts. Discussion also includes the DOJ's indictment of two Iranians over election-related cyberattacks, which Jon and BB argue is a carefully timed narrative weapon. With sharp analysis, they trace the evolution of “RussiaGate” through to “IranGate,” spotlighting the weaponization of intelligence and media in managing the political battlefield. From Jon's Substack dive into a DOD contractor's links to election software, to the ongoing shift from COVID to climate as the next control vector, this episode connects the dots on the elite's toolkit of chaos. All wrapped in the show's signature balance of wit, receipts, and hard-hitting analysis.

In Episode 128 of Badlands Story Hour, Chris Paul and Burning Bright take a deep dive into the iconic film Braveheart, using it as a lens to examine modern narrative warfare, institutional collapse, and the power of individual courage. Drawing parallels between William Wallace's defiance of tyranny and today's decentralized truth-tellers, the hosts explore how stories, both historical and fictional, shape our understanding of freedom, loyalty, and legacy. As legacy media and regime narratives continue to break down, this episode challenges listeners to consider who's writing the story now—and whether we have the bravery to reclaim it.

In Episode 33 of The Narrative, Burning Bright and Zak "RedPill78" Paine dissect the establishment's media scramble as narratives around Trump, Clinton, and the FBI continue to unravel. They break down recent stories, including Clinton's unexamined thumb drives, executive privilege claims, and shifting Russiagate timelines, showing how the media is attempting to reframe the narrative under pressure. The hosts also spotlight growing public awareness around state-sponsored deception and the psychological impact of these revelations. From “burn bags” and tech PR pieces to the regime's desperation to paint Trump as dangerous, Burning Bright and Zak expose how the information war is evolving, and how legacy systems are breaking down in real time.

In Episode 376 of Devolution Power Hour, Jon Herold and Burning Bright explore the strategic use of optics and timing in a world saturated with disinformation. They unpack a series of recent events, from explosions in Crimea and the Philippines to chatter around secretive burn bags and staged White House events, raising the question: what's real, what's theater, and who benefits? The hosts break down Trump's deliberate messaging, media misfires, and a shift in public perception that suggests the narrative is slipping out of regime control. With a focus on context and comms, they dissect headlines to highlight broader patterns in the information war. This episode offers a grounded yet provocative look at how misdirection and precision are being deployed on all sides.

In this episode of Badlands Story Hour, Chris Paul and Burning Bright dive deep into the satirical film Thank You for Smoking, examining its commentary on persuasion, propaganda, and personal freedom. The duo unpacks the complexity of Nick Naylor's character, not as a villain, but as a truth-teller navigating a society addicted to moral posturing. They discuss the layered dynamics between tobacco, alcohol, and firearms in the cultural consciousness, the role of narrative warfare, and how modern programming conditions our collective assumptions. From AI's quiet takeover to geopolitical energy manipulation, this isn't just a film discussion, it's a dissection of how truth is packaged, sold, and suppressed. With cultural references ranging from the PayPal mafia's producer credits to comparisons with Watchmen and Silicon Valley, the episode peels back the glossy veneer of storytelling to reveal a much darker, and sometimes liberating, core.

In Episode 32 of The Narrative, Burning Bright and Alpha Warrior shift focus from decoding the storm to building through it. The duo explores the concept of “missions forward”, a call to action for those awakened by chaos to now anchor into purpose. Rather than chasing the next drop or decode, they emphasize forming communities, cultivating families, and embodying values in the real world. Alpha shares reflections on personal transformation, while Burning Bright highlights the need to live the information war with spiritual intention rather than obsession. They discuss the balance between truth-seeking and life-building, and how to navigate a world that constantly tries to pull attention toward fear and distraction. With a tone that's both grounded and galvanizing, this episode invites listeners to reframe the narrative not as a never-ending crisis but as the groundwork for a parallel culture, one rooted in clarity, courage, and creation. It's a reminder that the mission isn't behind us. It's forward.

In Episode 374 of Devolution Power Hour, Jon Herold and Burning Bright dig deep into the newly released declassified appendix to the DOJ's IG report on the Clinton email investigation, and the implications are seismic. From unexamined thumb drives to evidence that may have been exfiltrated from the Executive Office of the President, the hosts walk through what they call one of the biggest cover-ups in modern American history. They explore how the Clinton investigation and Russiagate were not separate scandals, but two sides of the same coin, engineered to cover each other and to stop Trump. Jon and BB also reflect on Trump's recent Truth Social posts calling out Obama as the ringleader of the Russia hoax, breaking down how Trump's carefully chosen words may signal upcoming moves. They dive into recent judicial happenings, the Maui fire cover-up, bizarre military activity, and the media's silence on major stories. It's an episode packed with red-pilled analysis, sharp speculation, and a sobering look at what the unraveling of the official narrative might truly mean.

Chris Paul and Burning Bright dive deep into The Northman, exploring its grim aesthetic, Norse mythology, and literary roots in the legend of Amleth, the same myth that inspired Shakespeare's Hamlet. They dissect the movie's portrayal of fate, trauma, and identity, examining how the protagonist becomes a tragic vessel for vengeance after being spiritually and emotionally programmed by his father's deathbed ritual. With nods to MK Ultra, paganism, and berserker myth, the hosts question whether Amleth ever had free will or was doomed from childhood. They contrast the film's brutal worldview with Tolkien's mythic optimism and explore the cultural shift from rooted moral frameworks to modern-day spiritual voids. The discussion expands to themes of slavery, regime control, and historical parallels, culminating in a sharp critique of pagan ritualism in both ancient and modern forms. This is one of the darkest and most complex entries in the Story Hour series, unflinching in its dissection of narrative, power, and spiritual warfare.

In this episode of The Narrative, Burning Bright and Jordan Sather peel back the prophetic and political layers behind the recent red heifer headlines. They explore how the ritual of the red heifer, central to Third Temple prophecy, may be weaponized for geopolitical ends, and whether its timing is part of a broader psychological operation tied to the Israeli state, evangelical Zionism, and elite esoteric belief systems. The hosts revisit the rise of Trump and the spiritual awakening it triggered, questioning whether certain elements within the awakening movement were manipulated to usher in the very beast system they thought they were resisting. The conversation touches on Project Blue Beam, predictive programming, and how mythological archetypes have been inserted into political movements through media, memes, and metaphysical sleight of hand. Whether discussing the Book of Numbers or the Netflix doc Ancient Apocalypse, this episode challenges listeners to examine how old world patterns and ancient rituals continue to shape global events. It's a journey through time, tech, and theology, where nothing is quite what it seems.

In this episode of Devolution Power Hour, Jon Herold and Burning Bright analyze Trump's recent Truth Social activity and how it fits into a long-term strategic narrative. They break down Trump's comment about seizing Iranian oil tankers and examine how it ties into asymmetric warfare and the administration's past economic pressure tactics. The hosts revisit Trump's repeated messaging on the border crisis, arguing that his early warnings and solutions are now being vindicated by undeniable collapse. They explore how narratives are used to shape perception, highlighting “deconstruction” of corrupt systems versus “demoralization” of the public, and why Trump's positioning as the only viable solution is central to the story. The discussion also touches on the use of reverse psychology in shaping media narratives, why the truth must often be “lived through,” and how manufactured chaos may be used to awaken rather than defeat. In a time when trust is scarce and institutions are crumbling, the episode suggests Trump is not just calling out the problems, he's allowing the collapse to become visible enough that people will demand real change.

Hosted by Burning Bright and Chris Paul, this episode revisits David Fincher's 2011 film The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo with fresh eyes and hard questions. The hosts break down the film's grim narrative of elite depravity, ritualistic abuse, and generational corruption, connecting it to real-world stories like Epstein, media psyops, and the weaponization of sexual crimes for cultural engineering. They examine how the film's bleak view of masculinity, its heavy-handed depiction of Nazis, and its graphic scenes of violence and assault blurred the line between storytelling and exploitation. Alongside reflections on Hollywood's complicity and the rise of the “strong female lead” archetype, the conversation veers into how narratives were shaped to seed public demoralization and prime the MeToo era. The hosts also debate whether such stories are cautionary tales or deliberate attempts to normalize the monstrous. As the discussion moves from film critique to cultural analysis, the episode offers a deeper look at how popular media can shape, distort, or reveal uncomfortable truths about the powerful.

A special episode of Burning Bright, featuring an interview with Susan Baur, founder of Old Ladies Against Underwater Garbage (OLAUG) and author of "In the Company of Turtles."Support the show

In this expansive episode of The Narrative, Burning Bright and Matt Ehret dive into a layered conversation that bridges current psyops and historical revisionism. They begin by unpacking the Epstein saga and its weaponization in modern discourse, then pivot to reflections on the Vietnam-era counterculture, secret societies like the Hellfire Club, and the manipulation of collective morality through fiction and pop culture. The second half turns to the Founding Fathers, challenging the monolithic view of their unity by exploring fierce rivalries and philosophical contradictions among Jefferson, Hamilton, and others. Matt shares insights from his recent writings defending Hamilton and Lincoln, sparking debates over the legitimacy of centralized power and the tension between individual liberty and collective welfare. Along the way, the hosts weave in everything from the Watchmen's moral paradox to the timeless power of stories in shaping public consciousness. It's an episode that questions everything...past and present, and invites listeners to embrace the uncertainty while demanding accountability.

In this marathon episode, Jon Herold and Burning Bright take listeners on a tour through the week's biggest, and most tangled, narratives. They start by dissecting the backlash over the DOJ's Epstein memo, exploring why Trump's irritated dismissal of Epstein questions wasn't just frustration but potentially a signal that the narrative was always overhyped by others. The conversation moves to the bombshell criminal referrals of John Brennan and James Comey over Russiagate misconduct, a development the hosts see as the starting domino in unraveling the Deep State's decade-long campaign against Trump. They connect the dots to Durham's report, Spygate, and why this legal front could finally break into public consciousness. Turning global, the discussion examines Trump's new tariffs, his hardline stance against BRICS countries, and the emerging Taiwan flashpoint as media and NATO leaders ramp up fear narratives about a China invasion. With reflections on semiconductor supply lines, rare earth minerals, and the economic pressure shaping geopolitics, the episode blends deep-dive research with candid skepticism. Whether debating psyops or the pace of justice, Jon and Burning Bright challenge listeners to question the timing, the incentives, and the stories shaping the battlefield.

In this episode, Burning Bright and Chris Paul dissect Michael Bay's 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi, blending film critique with a deeper exploration of the narratives surrounding the 2012 attack. They examine how the movie subtly undermines the official story, portraying the CIA not as saviors but as the true antagonists, hoarding information, obstructing help, and prioritizing their own cover-up over American lives. The discussion explores whether Ambassador Chris Stevens' death was a tragic accident or a deliberate assassination to bury evidence of weapons transfers and clandestine deals. They break down inconsistencies in the narrative, like the tidy explanation for Stevens' cause of death, the dubious claims of resource shortages, and the suspiciously well-prepared mortars that struck the annex. Through thoughtful analysis, they argue that incompetence is often a convenient cover for malice, and they challenge listeners to follow the trail of contradictions to see where it leads. With references to Hillary Clinton's infamous “What difference at this point does it make?” remark and the CIA's “heroism” awards, this episode pushes past surface-level hero worship to question whether the real story was hidden in plain sight.

In this episode of The Narrative, Burning Bright and Brad Zerbo take a thoughtful journey through America's origins and its modern crossroads. The hosts reflect on how Donald Trump's recent rhetoric has invoked the Founding Fathers and the spirit of independence, sparking discussion about whether today's political realignment could mirror the original revolutionary ethos. They explore the potential evolution from a two-party system into something more aligned with America First principles, considering whether the emergence of an “America Party” could be a calculated shift rather than a spontaneous rupture. Alongside these themes, they examine the battle space, political, cultural, informational, and how Trump's memetic presence shapes public perception. The conversation also grapples with the difference between ideological branding and authentic principle, raising questions about conservatism, liberalism, and the drift of institutions. Finally, the hosts share candid thoughts on moral compromise in modern governance, from taxation to public standards, and draw parallels between the audacity of the Founders and the resolve needed now to reclaim self-determination.

In this milestone four-year anniversary episode of Devolution Power Hour, Jon Herold and Burning Bright dissect the high-stakes drama surrounding Trump's “Big Beautiful Bill.” They break down the House's record-shattering procedural votes, the Senate's last-minute amendments, and why the bill's spectacle might be engineered narrative warfare rather than genuine urgency. The hosts debate whether Trump's relentless push is a trap to expose congressional dysfunction or a sincere attempt to codify his agenda, exploring “narrative shielding,” the switch theory, and the possibility of a financial reset hidden in plain sight. The show dives into the surreal optics of pajama-clad lawmakers, Elon Musk's feud with Trump over the bill, and the “pincer strategy” that may be uniting their public opposition and support into a single play. Jon and Burning Bright also connect the dots to election integrity revelations, with Chuck Grassley's bombshell on Chinese fake driver's licenses and John Ratcliffe's review of the CIA's 2016 Russian influence assessment. Packed with humor, existential frustration, and reminders not to cheerlead mindlessly, this episode challenges listeners to question every narrative, especially the ones they want to believe.