Podcast appearances and mentions of jimmy lai

Jonathan Miltimore discusses the ongoing imprisonment of 79-year-old pro-democracy publisher Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong, calling it the world's most overlooked story. Miltimore expresses his deep disappointment that Donald Trumpfailed to raise Lai's case publicly during his Beijing trip, instead repeating CCP rhetoric that Lai caused "bedlam." He describes Lai's deteriorating health inside his tiny, unventilated six-foot cell and urges President Trump to pressure Xi Jinping during his upcoming U.S. visit. Miltimore notes that even certain CCP factions want Lai released to avoid international outrage if he dies in prison, emphasizing that Lai is fully prepared for potential martyrdom. (4)

TABLE OF CONTENTS THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW 8-21-2026Anatol Lieven discusses the war in Ukraine, highlighting Ukrainian drone and missile attacks on Russian civilian infrastructure like Black Sea resorts and a commercial center. He carefully examines the psychological impact of these infrastructure strikes, noting that while they aim to weaken Russian morale, history shows such strategies rarely succeed. Lieven describes growing domestic resentment over rampant government corruption, which threatens Western aid and has already led to several high-profile dismissals. Finally, he analyzes global energy and food security threats caused by port and refinery strikes, alongside Prime Minister Andy Burnham's struggle to balance costly military commitments with domestic recovery. (1)Peter Berkowitz reflects on the 30th anniversary of Alan Sokal's famous academic hoax, which exposed the intellectual decline within higher education humanities. Berkowitz critiques contemporary humanities departments for their ideological hypocrisy: professors claim objective truth is subjective while simultaneously insisting that their own political claims are absolute truths. He references a report from Vanderbilt and Washington University confirming that significant contingents of humanities faculty in core disciplines subordinate scholarship to political activism. Finally, Berkowitz notes that this progressive ideological capture is concentrated among college-educated voters in elite university towns, warning that treating education as political indoctrination severely perverts liberal education. (2)Mary Anastasia O'Grady discusses the alarming rise of authoritarianism in Mexico under President Claudia Sheinbaum and her ruling party, Morena. O'Grady details how the ruling party has systematically consolidated power by taking control of independent electoral bodies, tribunals, regulatory commissions, and the judiciary through politicized popular elections. She warns that Morena's latest effort targets television and radio—the primary sources of information for most Mexican citizens—to effectively censor critical independent media. While O'Grady deeply laments the weak leadership of the official political opposition, she finds hope in the strong pushback and widespread mobilization of Mexican civil society against these state controls. (3)Jonathan Miltimore discusses the ongoing imprisonment of 79-year-old pro-democracy publisher Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong, calling it the world's most overlooked story. Miltimore expresses his deep disappointment that Donald Trumpfailed to raise Lai's case publicly during his Beijing trip, instead repeating CCP rhetoric that Lai caused "bedlam." He describes Lai's deteriorating health inside his tiny, unventilated six-foot cell and urges President Trump to pressure Xi Jinping during his upcoming U.S. visit. Miltimore notes that even certain CCP factions want Lai released to avoid international outrage if he dies in prison, emphasizing that Lai is fully prepared for potential martyrdom. (4)Veronique de Rugy critiques California Representative Ro Khanna's proposal for a "one-time" 5% wealth tax on billionaires. De Rugy explains that several different European countries largely abandoned wealth taxes because they are administratively difficult, generate little revenue, and cause severe economic distortions. Highlighting a debate between Khanna and Mark Cuban, she details how taxing paper wealth completely ignores true liquidity, forcing entrepreneurs to sell shares of private companies or borrow against volatile collateral. De Rugy warns that wealth taxes inevitably expand to target middle-class citizens, ultimately costing states far more in lost income taxes than they retrieve from the wealthy. (5)Rohan Naidu discusses the groundbreaking discovery of "black hole stars" at cosmic dawn using the James Webb Space Telescope. Naidu explains that these infant objects appear as mysterious "little red dots" but possess hybrid properties of both highly luminous black holes and stars. He explains how a young black hole surrounded by dense hydrogen gas absorbs blue and green light, creating a signature "Balmer break" resembling the star Vega. Naidu outlines future research, including finding atmospheric chemical fingerprints like water, and using the newly proposed Celestemission alongside ground telescopes to directly image swirling gas feeding these infant black holes. (6)James M. Scott traces the dramatic, complex final months of World War II in the Pacific. Scott details how Secretary of War Henry Stimson briefed Truman in depth on the secret atomic bomb, and praises General Leslie Groves' masterful management of the Manhattan Project's secret cities. He describes Japan's political division: Emperor Hirohito secretly sought peace while militarists prepared a fanatical defense of Kyushu to force better terms. Scott explains the intense debate over demanding unconditional surrender versus preserving the Japanese monarchy, concluding with the Trinitytest, Potsdam Conference, and Truman's hope that the bomb's shock value would force surrender. (7)Evan Ellis analyzes key regional political and security developments in Latin America. Ellis discusses EcuadorianPresident Daniel Noboa's visit to China to secure security, trade, and economic assistance, and explains how historical visa-free policies turned Ecuador into a major transit corridor for Chinese migrants entering the US. He details Bolivia's ongoing political instability and the dangerous scandals involving Evo Morales. Ellis also covers Chile's border enforcement efforts, Colombia's return to aggressive military operations against cartels following a major earthquake, and the stalled democratic transitions in Venezuela and Nicaragua, where regimes rely on brutal repression and illicit economies to hold power. (8)This fuller eight-file version supersedes the earlier seven-file draft — de Rugy now sits at (5) and everything falls in place without gaps. The Celeste mission appears again in segment 6; the source calls it "newly proposed," which explains why I couldn't verify it earlier, so I've let it stand.

Thank you so much for listening to the Bob Harden Show, celebrating 15 years broadcasting on the internet. On Monday's show, we visit with Marc Schulman, Founder and Publisher of HistoryCentral.com, about developments in Iran, Israel, Gaza, Ukraine, Korea, and China. The American Institute for Economic Research Senior Editor Jon Miltimore and I discuss the apostle for freedom, the imprisoned Jimmy Lai. We also visit with author and former Barron's Washington Bureau Chief Jim McTague about flaws in artificial programming that could create national security risks. We have terrific guests for tomorrow's show, including the Leader of the Regulatory Studies Center at George Washington University William Yeatman, Young Voices Content Creator Maggie Anders, and Linda Harden. Access this and past shows at your convenience on my web site, social media platforms or podcast platforms.

Mark Clifford: Mark Clifford discusses the ongoing detention of British citizen and entrepreneur Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong. While China recently released a Protestant pastor, Xi Jinping reportedly remains determined that Lai, a fervent Catholic and advocate for Western values, will die in prison. Clifford suggests Xi's animosity is personal, rooted in a belief that the survival of the Communist Party is paramount and that any dissent is an existential threat. Despite the UK's new leadership focusing on domestic issues, Clifford hopes the government continues to pressure Beijing for the release of its citizen. (4)

TABLE OF CONTENTS, THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-12-2026Michael Bernstam: Michael Bernstam discusses a critical shortage of refined products such as diesel and gasoline, noting that global supply has dropped by 8.3 million barrels per day. While crude oil is available, refining capacity in the US and Europe has declined for decades. Recent Ukrainian drone strikes have further crippled Russia's refining capabilities, forcing it to import fuel. These disruptions, along with Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, contribute to a daily deficit of 2 million barrels. Bernstam warns that consumers worldwide will face higher energy and food prices indefinitely as a result. (1)Michael Lucchese: Michael Lucchese explores the history and modern return of isolationism within American politics, particularly the Republican Party. He characterizes isolationism as a short-sighted avoidance of global affairs that often coincides with political extremism. Lucchese argues that the West is currently in a civilizational contest against an axis of revisionist powers including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. He critiques recent administrations for showing a lack of civilizational confidence, which he believes has encouraged adversaries to be more aggressive on the world stage. (2)Captain James Fanell: Captain James Fanell reports on China's escalating campaign to annex international waters east of Taiwan. For the first time, Chinese vessels are interrogating ships on the high seas, an outrageous violation of maritime norms. This aggression occurs as the US Navy is severely overstretched, with carrier deployments extending to nine months and the arsenal of democracy being depleted by conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Fanell urges the US and partner navies to conduct joint maneuvers with Taiwan to counter Beijing's comprehensive national power strategy. (3)Mark Clifford: Mark Clifford discusses the ongoing detention of British citizen and entrepreneur Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong. While China recently released a Protestant pastor, Xi Jinping reportedly remains determined that Lai, a fervent Catholic and advocate for Western values, will die in prison. Clifford suggests Xi's animosity is personal, rooted in a belief that the survival of the Communist Party is paramount and that any dissent is an existential threat. Despite the UK's new leadership focusing on domestic issues, Clifford hopes the government continues to pressure Beijing for the release of its citizen. (4)Charles Burton: Charles Burton provides insight into the annual Beidaihe retreat, where Chinese leaders meet secretly to decide the party's direction. This year's focus is on a failing domestic economy, including a collapsed housing market and crushing local government debt. Burton notes that Xi Jinping's limited international travel may indicate internal instability. Additionally, the discussion touches on escalating trade tensions between Canada and the US over potential tariffs and disagreements regarding the financing of the new Gordie Howe International Bridge. (5)Peter Huessy: Peter Huessy examines the fragile state of nuclear deterrence as Russia conducts drills for tactical nuclear weapons. He warns that the US is behind the eight ball regarding theater nuclear options, possessing only gravity bombs while Russia maintains thousands of short-range weapons. Huessy fears Putin may use these weapons for blackmail if he perceives a conventional loss in Ukraine. He advocates for the rapid modernization of the US nuclear triad, specifically calling for sea-launched cruise missiles to restore a credible deterrent against reckless adversaries. (6)Cliff May: Cliff May argues that Islamism is not being studied with the rigor that communism once received during the Cold War. He observes that many university Middle East studies departments, funded by foreign interests such as Qatar, have become Islamist adjacent. May highlights a recent Senate hearing on the Muslim Brotherhood where most senators failed to attend, fearing accusations of Islamophobia. This willful determination to ignore history allows the red-green alliance of far-left activists and Islamists to grow, posing a significant threat to democratic values. (7)Admiral Mark Montgomery: Admiral Mark Montgomery details the growing cyber and hybrid warfare cooperation within the axis of aggressors: China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. This cooperation often involves criminal actors sharing attack techniques and technology to target critical infrastructure. Montgomery warns of new generation warfare, including terrorist acts, jamming, and disinformation. He specifically points to China's Volt Typhoon program, which has installed malware in US rail, water, and energy systems. Montgomery urges an all-hands-on-deck approach to secure essential systems, as attribution for these ghost-like attacks remains difficult. (8)Simon Constable: Simon Constable reports on rising commodity prices, with Brent crude reaching $89 per barrel and European gas prices surging 18 percent. He discusses the recent change in UK government, where new Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to focus almost exclusively on domestic issues. Constable also touches on the results of a longevity quiz, noting that average life expectancy in the US has reached 79 years. Finally, the conversation addresses unusual political rhetoric in Britain regarding the monarchy and the impact of extreme weather and wildfires across Europe. (9)Bob Zimmerman: Bob Zimmerman discusses the progress of commercial space ventures, highlighting Rocket Lab's new contract for its reusable Neutron rocket. He explains how companies such as SpaceX are developing recoverable capsules for in-space manufacturing, including pharmaceuticals. Zimmerman also notes a recent Chinese rocket failure, which was transparently reported only because of local live-streamers. Additionally, India is attempting to transfer control of its spaceports to the private sector to foster competition. Despite opposition from fake environmental activist groups, Zimmerman remains optimistic about the future of private-sector space exploration. (10)One correction applied: the raw had "Vault Typhoon" — the PRC infrastructure intrusion campaign is Volt Typhoon. Also still open from the prior batch: Hu Chunhua and Mohammad Reza Tavakoli.Across both batches, four threads run through nearly every segment.The axis as a working system, not a slogan. Chinese and Russian materiel moving to Iran (Holt), Iranian resupply of the Houthis (Fitton-Brown), Hezbollah's Syrian pipeline (Daoud), and Montgomery's cyber cooperation among all four — the same four capitals appear in Lucchese's civilizational contest and Montgomery's shared attack techniques. The story is no longer four separate adversaries but one logistics and learning network.Pauses as rearmament. Haqqani, Daoud, and Fitton-Brown independently report Iran boasting that ceasefires are for restocking. Sayeh supplies the domestic mirror: executions spike precisely when negotiations are underway. Ben-Ur gives the Gaza version — Hamas distributing rifles while the disarmament deal is being signed. The diplomatic interval is the adversary's production cycle.American absence, and who fills it. Haqqani's "helpless giant," Fitton-Brown's elephant in the room, Fanell's nine-month carrier deployments and depleted arsenal, Huessy's theater nuclear gap, Bernstam's lost refining capacity. Chang and Holt argue the reticence is a gambit; the guests closer to the ground read it as depletion. Haqqani's line is the sharpest: China wins by saying nothing.Xi's brittleness. Collier's $7.7 trillion in hidden bad loans, Burton's Beidaihe meeting on a collapsed housing market and local debt, Xi's shrinking travel schedule, Holt's factional rival. Clifford's Jimmy Lai segment is the same material in personal form — the vindictiveness of a leader who treats any dissent as existential. External aggression from Fanell sits directly on top of internal weakness from Collier and Burton, which is the more interesting juxtaposition than either alone.Two smaller pairings worth an hour break: Bernstam and Constable both on energy and food prices as the civilian bill for all of the above, and Araújo/Peña Esclusa's hemispheric shift as the one segment where the trend runs the other way — Petro out, De la Espriella in, Lula isolated.If you want a running order argument: Collier and Burton to establish the weakness, Fanell and Holt for the aggression it produces, then the Iran arc from Haqqani through Sayeh, with Bernstam and Constable as the price tag.

In this episode, Bill Umansky interviews Jimmy Lai about building influence on LinkedIn, content creation strategies, and managing stress as a legal professional and entrepreneur. They share practical tips for growing an online presence, leveraging AI tools, and maintaining authenticity.

It's Monday and Lauretta has as her guest, Joyce Duriga, Editor of Chicago Catholic. Today they focus their chat across multiple issues of the Chicago Catholic, specifically the July 12th and the July 26th issues.  Lauretta draws attention to ongoing prayer requests for peace and for the release of Jimmy Lai, she adds on the request for prayers to unmask the Democratic Socialists.  Afterwards she welcomes Joyce and they discuss the “At Peace” memorial which honors the lives lost to suicide and offers a sacred space for prayer and remembrance.  The memorial was dedicated at the Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside on June 26, 2026.  Lauretta then gives a shout out to Karen Callaway, photographer for the Chicago Catholic who was recognized for her work with the St. Francis de Sales Award on June 19th.   They call attention to the celebration of Mother Cabrini's Birthday and Canonization anniversary that was celebrated at the National Shrine of St. Francis Xavier Cabrini on July 12, 2026 also discussing her contributions.  Their final article focused on the Protection of Children Charter that was implemented to protect children. The charter which was implemented 25 years ago is still going strong and has grown as it provides training and education for knowledge and awareness for prevention of abuse. Lauretta recognizes the upcoming Feast of the Assumption on August 15th and Joyce draws attention to the huge feast held at St. Jerome Croatian Catholic Church encouraging all to go out to and enjoy the feast and procession on Princeton Avenue.  Joyce reminds listeners that they can subscribe to the Chicago Catholic or pick up a copy at your local parish.  For the complete articles and more information, please visit their website at ChicagoCatholic.com. St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish  https://www.chicagocatholic.com/ 

Nina Shea and Grace Jin Drexel discuss the release of Pastor Ezra Jin from prison in China, the ongoing incarceration of 8 other Christians from Zion Church, and the current state of the case of Jimmy Lai.

Piero Tozzi and Gordon Chang explore the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) "long arm" influence in the U.S., specifically regarding a Purdue University professor pressured to cancel a speech at a Catholic conference. Tozzi explains that the CCP uses "patriotic churches" to "sinicize" Catholicism, which involves forcing the religion to conform to Party dictates. Tozzi criticizes the Vatican's "accommodationist approach" under the 2018 Sino-Vatican Accord, noting it neglects the persecuted "underground" church. He highlights that figures like Cardinal Zen and Archbishop Cordileone have been vocal defenders of figures like Jimmy Lai. Tozzi argues that the Catholic hierarchy must understand the totalitarian nature of the CCP, which seeks absolute control over all institutions. The discussion emphasizes that Chinese officials use intimidation to project dominance even within American universities and religious organizations. (4)

SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-5-2026.Michael Bernstam discusses how August is historically a "month of curses" for Russia, citing the 1991 coup and the 1914 start of WWI. Currently, Russia is facing a severe fiscal and production crisis driven by Ukrainian drone strikes that have crippled 25% of its oil refining capacity. Additionally, Ukrainian drones recently destroyed a massive Wildberrieswarehouse—Russia's equivalent to Amazon—stripping a million vendors of their livelihoods and stressing the banking sector. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is in fiscal trouble due to its $1.5 trillion "The Line" project and Houthi attacks on its pipelines. This pressure is leading the Saudis to urge the Trump administration toward concessions with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and stabilize oil flows. Bernstam notes that while the EU has frozen the Russian oil price cap at $44.10, the real impact on Russian revenues will come from any reduction in world oil prices. (1)Bob Zimmerman highlights the rapid evolution of the commercial space industry, comparing it to the early 20th-century auto boom. A major milestone includes SpaceX successfully retrieving a Starship stage from the Indian Ocean to analyze its thermal protection tiles. Zimmerman notes that the FAA is proposing to exempt spaceports from 13 environmental laws to curb "mission creep" and "lawfare." In the satellite market, Starlink's dominance has forced competitors like Hughes into bankruptcy. Internationally, Zimmerman criticizes the European Union Space Act as a regulatory disaster that could drive U.S. and Chinese businesses away from the EU market. Other notable developments include Spain's $1 billion offer to move the Thirty Meter Telescope to the Canary Islands and new evidence that near-surface ice is ubiquitous on Mars, simplifying future colonization. He also mentions the mapping of 200,000 supermassive black holes. (2)James Holmes and Gordon Chang address the critical lack of frigates in the U.S. Navy, which Holmes describes as essential low-cost platforms for monitoring adversaries. The current fleet is "top-heavy," relying on Arleigh Burke-class destroyers that are overworked. Holmes explains that the new Constellation-class frigate program has been delayed because the Navy continues to "monkey with the designs," resulting in vessels that are destroyer-sized but under-armed. Meanwhile, China and Russia have conducted joint naval exercises since 2005 to improve interoperability and provide military options in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait. Holmes suggests the U.S. should consider leveraging the superior shipbuilding capacity of allies like South Korea, which claims it could produce five Arleigh Burkes annually, whereas the U.S. struggles to build two. The focus remains on regaining the ability to build plentiful, cost-effective combatants. (3)Piero Tozzi and Gordon Chang explore the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) "long arm" influence in the U.S., specifically regarding a Purdue University professor pressured to cancel a speech at a Catholic conference. Tozzi explains that the CCP uses "patriotic churches" to "sinicize" Catholicism, which involves forcing the religion to conform to Party dictates. Tozzi criticizes the Vatican's "accommodationist approach" under the 2018 Sino-Vatican Accord, noting it neglects the persecuted "underground" church. He highlights that figures like Cardinal Zen and Archbishop Cordileone have been vocal defenders of figures like Jimmy Lai. Tozzi argues that the Catholic hierarchy must understand the totalitarian nature of the CCP, which seeks absolute control over all institutions. The discussion emphasizes that Chinese officials use intimidation to project dominance even within American universities and religious organizations. (4)Steve Yates and Gordon Chang discuss the proposed ban on Chinese components in U.S. data centers, warning that these devices allow for foreign sabotage of critical infrastructure. Yates notes that the CCP often fuels "astroturf" protests in rural America to block data center construction and slow U.S. AI development. Regarding Taiwan, Yates reports that security cooperation is becoming more transparent, moving away from "strategic ambiguity" to reassure allies and deter China. However, he notes a delay in a $14 billion arms package for Taiwan, suggesting that some in Washington still prioritize "walking on eggshells" to preserve the relationship with Xi Jinping. Yates argues for a shift toward helping partners buy and use their own deterrent capabilities. He concludes that U.S. leadership in compute power is a vital strategic advantage that China is actively trying to undermine through influence operations. (5)Peter Huessy provides a historical overview of nuclear arms control, starting with the 1972 SALT I agreement, which actually codified a buildup of weapons while banning missile defenses. He describes the "window of vulnerability" in the 1980s when Soviet SS-18 missiles threatened a first strike. The START I and START II treaties in the 1990s achieved the first real reductions, with START II aiming to ban destabilizing multiple-warhead (MIRV) land-based missiles. However, START II unraveled when Russia demanded limits on U.S. missile defenses. Following the Moscow Treatyand the 2010 New START, the arms control regime has effectively collapsed. Huessy emphasizes that today, there is no active treaty governing nuclear weapons between the U.S. and Russia. He underscores the importance of past verification measures, like "portal monitoring" in missile factories, which are no longer in place. (6)Humberto Briceño describes Venezuela as a state captured by a transnational alliance of criminal organizations, including colectivos (paramilitaries) and narco-traffickers. He criticizes the decision to leave "gangsters" like Delcy Rodríguez in power while attempting to rebuild democracy. Briceño argues that the judiciary and military must be entirely replaced, as they currently serve only as agents of the regime. Despite $13 billion in recent oil earnings, massive corruption has left the funds unaccounted for. He maintains that free elections, ideally by March 2027, are impossible without first dismantling the criminal infrastructure and placing the military under civil authority. Briceño praises the leadership of María Corina Machado and Edmundo González, noting the Venezuelan people are desperate for transformation after three decades of state-sponsored violence and economic collapse. (7)Simon Constable reports on the extreme weather and energy pressures facing Europe, with Brent crude prices up 12% and natural gas up 22% in a single month. He details a "semi-invasion" of Spain, where 60,000 migrants recently attempted to cross from Morocco, and the controversy in the UK over using the Royal Navy to return migrant boats to France. Constable describes the lack of logic in French police allowing these dangerous rubber rafts to depart. Switching to his "data center quiz," he reveals that 67% of new data centers are planned for rural areas, which often brings both high local resistance and significant tax revenue. He identifies labor shortages—particularly for electricians—and tariff uncertainties as the primary barriers to U.S. data center construction. Constable notes that within five miles of an operational data center, a significant portion of the U.S. population now resides. (8)Mary Kissel analyzes the "stuck" state of global diplomacy, arguing that China and Russia are actively judging the strength of U.S. deterrence in the Strait of Hormuz and Ukraine. She disputes the idea that China is a neutral bystander, noting that Beijing benefits from Russian energy, Iranian markets, and the depletion of U.S. military assets like Patriotmissiles. Kissel asserts that the "merging" of the wars in Ukraine and Iran actually happened years ago through long-standing regime cooperation. She warns that a "halfway house" deal with Iran would only grant the regime more leverage and threaten European population centers with ballistic missiles. NATO must recognize a "condominium of countries"—China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea—that are aligning against Western security. Kissel emphasizes that these regimes' interference in U.S. domestic politics is a strategic tool used to promote their own ends. (9)Colonel Grant Newsham challenges the assumption of inevitable Chinese dominance, labeling it a "fake it till you make it" strategy intended to intimidate foreigners. He points out that China's property market is a "crater" and its currency is not freely convertible, forcing the CCP to aggressively export overcapacity to earn the dollars needed for raw materials. Newsham highlights that over 600 million Chinese citizens live on less than $5 a day, and even the CCP elite, including Xi Jinping, keep wealth overseas as a hedge against the system's future. He argues that China's high-tech focus on AI and robotics does not solve its massive youth unemployment. Newsham concludes that China is a "big power but not a great one," functioning as a "rigged casino" without property rights or the rule of law, which is increasingly deterring foreign direct investment. (10)

Mark Clifford, author of Today Hong Kong, Tomorrow the World: What China's Crackdown Reveals About Its Plans to End Freedom Everywhere, documents the collapse of freedom in Hong Kong, describing the CCP's strategy as an "anaconda in the chandelier" that exerts control through subtle intimidation and sudden, lethal strikes. He traces the city's struggle for democracy from the 2014 Umbrella Movement to the massive 2019 protests against a proposed extradition bill. Clifford highlights the role of Jimmy Lai, the courageous media mogul behind Apple Daily, who was eventually imprisoned for his commitment to nonviolent opposition. The book explores how Beijing systematically dismantled Hong Kong's "high degree of autonomy" by bypassing local laws and imposing a draconian National Security Law in 2020. Clifford argues that this was not just a local event but a demonstration of the CCP's broader plan to use economic weapons, surveillance technology, and co-opted elites to silence dissent globally. He notes that the CCP successfully used Hong Kong's legal and administrative systems as tools of repression rather than protection. Clifford concludes with a warning that the tactics used to crush Hong Kong are being exported worldwide. He cites instances of Chinese diplomats threatening foreign politicians and activists in the diaspora, emphasizing that eternal vigilance is the only defense against the CCP's expansionist authoritarianism. The death of liberty in Hong Kong, he argues, serves as a chilling preview of the CCP's vision for the rest of the world. (7)1930s

FAN MAIL--We would love YOUR feedback--Send us a Text MessageA 78-year-old man sits in solitary confinement in Hong Kong with a 20-year sentence hanging over him. He could have left. He could have said the words that would have set him free. Jimmy Lai refused to lie, and that single act of conscience explains why authoritarian power reacts so fiercely to one person who won't be bought or frightened into agreement. We trace Lai's story from his rise as a self-made publisher and founder of Apple Daily to the convictions that made him a political prisoner, then widen the lens to a timeless pattern: rulers don't only want silence, they want affirmation. To make the point vivid, we bring in Robert Bolt's A Man for All Seasons and the example of Sir Thomas More, whose quiet “no” threatened a king more than any army ever could. From there, we get personal. Tyranny's business model depends on getting good people to say things they don't believe, and most of the time the pressure arrives in small, ordinary moments. A boss, a crowd, or an algorithm nudges you toward the easy line instead of the true one, and repetition slowly erases your ability to resist. You'll leave with one clear action step for the week, a sharper understanding of why free speech and freedom of the press matter, and a reason to take courage seriously before it costs more than you think. Key Points from the Episode:• the weight of “20 years” for a 78-year-old man and why it reads like a life sentence  • the Thomas More parallel from A Man for All Seasons and the danger of quiet refusal  • who Jimmy Lai is, why he founded Apple Daily, and why he stayed  • why regimes punish unbought people and make examples of them  • conscience as an antidote to tyranny and the everyday pressures to comply  • a simple action step for the next moment you feel pushed to say the comfortable lie  • a warning about treating communism as abstract and a call to sober attention at home  • prayer for Jimmy Lai and others imprisoned for refusing to bow  Want to go deeper?Watch the documentary on Jimmy Lai's story and the fall of Hong Kong: The Hong Konger — freejimmylai.comGo back and listen to where this story started — our 2022 episode: LM #21 — Two Iron Ladies: The Hong KongerAnd keep Jimmy Lai in your prayers tonight, along with every man and woman sitting in a cell right now simply for refusing to lie.Want to leave a review? Click here, and if we earned a five-star review from you — high five and knuckle bumps — we appreciate it greatly, thank you so much!Keep fighting the good fight.Links?

Mark Simon and Gordon Chang — China released Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri following a request from Donald Trump, showing Xi Jinping can make concessions without losing face; however, billionaire publisher Jimmy Lai remains imprisoned for political crimes, viewed by the Chinese government as a significant threat and a "one-man wrecking crew." (4)

SCHEDULE JBS, 7-13-26.1914 PALESTINESamuel Ben-Ur — Israel controls 70% of Gaza, creating a buffer zone while Hamas remains on the coast; 98% of the population resides on the Hamas-controlled side, where the group exploits humanitarian aid for revenue, and the Board of Peace proposes a "pilot zone" in Tel Sultan for non-Hamas civilians. (1)Samuel Ben-Ur — The Board of Peace remains underfunded, with only $23 million confirmed of the $17 billion pledged; Hamas rejected an eight-month disarmament plan, its leadership has largely relocated from Qatar to Turkey, and Netanyahu's political standing depends on his hardline refusal to cede Gaza territory. (2)Bill Gertz and Gordon Chang — Rose Gottemoeller suggests Vladimir Putin nearly used tactical nuclear weapons in 2022 to stop a military rout, allegedly dissuaded by private pressure from the U.S., China, and India; reports indicate China is now providing covert military training to Russian forces. (3)Mark Simon and Gordon Chang — China released Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri following a request from Donald Trump, showing Xi Jinping can make concessions without losing face; however, billionaire publisher Jimmy Lai remains imprisoned for political crimes, viewed by the Chinese government as a significant threat and a "one-man wrecking crew." (4)Malcolm Hoenlein and Thaddeus McCotter — Guests pay tribute to the late Senator Lindsey Graham, highlighting his role in the Abraham Accords and US-Israel relations; Israeli elections are set for October 27th, and regional tensions rise as the U.S. reimposes a naval blockade on Iran following renewed attacks on Gulf neighbors. (5)Malcolm Hoenlein and Thaddeus McCotter — Anti-Semitism is surging in the UK, leading to a £250 million government allocation for protection; Iran continues to act as an "octopus" of instability across the Middle East, and guests argue that dealing with Iran is the only way to achieve regional peace and allow the area to bloom. (6)David Daoud — Hezbollah fighters are integrated into southern Lebanese villages, making evacuation north of the Litani River unfeasible; while Lebanese law requires disarmament, the government lacks the will to confront Hezbollahdue to its significant social support, turning Lebanon into a hollowed-out, failed state. (7)David Daoud — Prime Minister Netanyahu uses theatrical tours of the border to project strength ahead of the October elections; he faces criticism for being unable to say "no" to President Trump, and ultimately the fate of Israeli military deployments in Lebanon and Gaza depends more on Washington than Jerusalem. (8)Bridget Toomey — Saudi Arabia struck Sanaa airport to prevent Iran from establishing direct flights to Houthi-controlled territory; the Houthis have vowed retaliation, potentially targeting Saudi oil infrastructure or airports with drones and missiles, though they have avoided attacking U.S. vessels to prevent renewed air campaigns. (9)John Hardie — President Trump signaled he will grant Ukraine a license to produce Patriot missile systems, though standing up production will take years; meanwhile, Germany is financing 50,000 AI-guided drones for Ukraine, which use terminal guidance to strike targets despite electronic warfare interference. (10)Edmund Fitton-Brown — The U.S. is reimposing a naval blockade on Iran after the collapse of the poorly drafted memorandum of understanding; Iran's economy is "choking to death" under these measures, and guests argue the U.S.must prioritize controlling the Strait of Hormuz through international cooperation and naval power. (11)Edmund Fitton-Brown — The truce between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis may be over following strikes on Sanaaairport, with retaliatory attacks potentially targeting major Saudi international airports and oil facilities; despite Iranianinfluence, the new Iraqi prime minister appears to be drifting toward the United States for security and stability. (12)Ahmad Sharawi — President Trump has agreed to review lifting Syria's state sponsor of terror designation to aid its economic recovery; however, the country remains unstable, with rampant ISIS activity and foreign leaders facing security risks in Damascus, while Turkey and Saudi Arabia position themselves to invest heavily in Syria. (13)Jonathan Schanzer — The naval blockade on Iran represents the "maximum pressure" campaign, effectively dropping Iranian oil exports to zero; this economic strangulation poses an existential threat to the regime, which struggles to pay its personnel, and recent direct missile exchanges suggest diplomatic understandings between the U.S. and Iran have collapsed. (14)Bob Zimmerman — China successfully recovered a reusable rocket stage, joining SpaceX and Blue Origin in the race for cheaper launches; on the ISS, a private company successfully manufactured human kidney and liver tissues, and SpaceX continues to break records, with boosters flying up to 36 times, significantly reducing satellite launch costs. (15)Bob Zimmerman — SETI has tightened protocols for announcing alien life to prevent "clickbait" claims lacking evidence, with scientists encouraged to be more transparent about mistakes and maintain anonymity during discoveries; future missions include deploying helicopters to Mars and launching the Habitable Worlds Observatory in the 2040s. (16)Corrections: Samuel Bener → Samuel Ben-Ur; Bill Girtz → Bill Gertz; Pastor Jyn / Ezra Jin Mingu → Ezra Jin Mingri; Jimmy Lie → Jimmy Lai; Thaddius McCotter → Thaddeus McCotter; Bridget Tumeh → Bridget Toomey; John Hardy → John Hardie.One question: the batch ended with "1-8" — I've numbered the full run (1)–(16), but if you wanted this split as tails (1)–(8) across paired segments, or only the first eight numbered, say the word and I'll renumber.

SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 7-8-20261966 SWEDEN Chaos in the Strait of Hormuz and Global Alignments. Gordon Chang and Kamran Bokhari. The Strait of Hormuz memorandum of understanding has collapsed, leading the U.S. to end the ceasefire with Iran. Iran is attempting to divide international allies by courting India and Pakistan. Pakistan balances a mediating role against domestic economic instability, while India shifts toward a burden-sharing role in the Indo-Pacific. (1) Chinese Missile Provocations and the Undersea Power Struggle. Gordon Chang and Rebecca Grant. Chinalaunched a long-range missile over sovereign territories toward Fiji, an aggressive move coinciding with major NATO and RIMPAC events. The test signals China's intent to expand its nuclear triad despite its currently "noisy" submarine technology. The U.S. maintains its undersea dominance through advanced programs like the Columbia-class boomer and unmanned Orca systems. (2) Religious Persecution and the Rise of Underground Christianity in China. Gordon Chang and Piero Tozzi. Pastor Ezra Jin's release highlights the CCP's continued persecution of underground churches that refuse to answer to the state. Despite intense Sinicization and arrests of figures like Jimmy Lai, Christianity is flourishing in China as a witness for human dignity. Totalitarian control efforts have created an enemy in an underground congregation potentially numbering over 100 million. (3) PLA Purges and Xi Jinping's Power Consolidation. Gordon Chang and Piero Tozzi. Xi Jinping's provocative missile launches are linked to internal instability and purges within the Central Military Commission. By creating international tension, Xi forces competing party factions to rally behind his leadership. While he controls the propaganda and state security apparatus, his control over the People's Liberation Army remains incomplete. (4) Venezuela's Humanitarian Crisis and US Diplomatic Pragmatism. Evan Ellis. Twin earthquakes in Venezuelahave left thousands dead and missing, with the Maduro regime's response marked by corruption and inefficiency. The U.S. continues to work with regime "thugs" for stability and oil access while preventing the democratically elected leader, María Corina Machado, from returning to aid her country. (5) Electoral Shifts Toward U.S. Cooperation in Peru and Colombia. Evan Ellis. Keiko Fujimori in Peru and Abelardo de la Espriella in Colombia have secured victories, pledging to join U.S.-led regional security coalitions. Both leaders inherit nations plagued by record-high coca production and expanded criminal groups. Their success is viewed as critical for regional stability and counter-cartel efforts in the Americas. (6) Bolivia's Instability and US-Mexico Trade Leverage. Evan Ellis. Bolivia remains on "borrowed time" as Evo Morales leads blockades from his coca-growing stronghold. Simultaneously, the U.S. uses the USMCA's renewal uncertainty as leverage to ensure Mexico's cooperation on migration and drugs. This strategy risks long-term investment but forces immediate strategic compliance from the Mexican administration. (7) Cuba's Grid Collapse and Caribbean Regional Integration. Evan Ellis. Cuba's recurring blackouts highlight a crumbling infrastructure and the failure of economic reforms to appease U.S. sanctions. While the U.S. applies individual sanctions on leaders, CARICOM is expanding its regional influence, recently bringing Martinique in as an associate member to bolster Caribbean governance and maritime security. (8) Russia's Energy Chokepoint and the Shifting Global Oil Map. Michael Bernstam. Ukrainian drone strikes on major Russian refineries have triggered a severe fuel crisis, forcing export bans on diesel and gasoline. Meanwhile, Gulf states are building massive pipelines to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. These developments are neutralizing Iran's "golden weapon" and shifting global oil transit maps away from traditional naval chokepoints. (9) The Strategic Impact of the Drone War on Russia. Michael Bernstam. Ukrainian drones have achieved what sanctions could not, choking Russia's fuel supply and forcing it to sell oil at massive discounts to China and India. This new form of decentralized drone warfare has made fuel supplies the primary vulnerability of the Russianeconomy. Modern nations, including Taiwan, are now observing these lessons in resource warfare. (10) The Capitalism Model and Monetization of the Space Sector. Bob Zimmerman. Wall Street has embraced commercial space, with private companies like Catalyst performing satellite servicing missions once reserved for government agencies. The U.S. Space Force now buys rapid-launch capabilities from the private sector for orbital reconnaissance. India is also transitioning its space program toward this capitalist model to increase efficiency. (11) Asteroid Probes and Scientific Cosmological Anomalies. Bob Zimmerman. Missions are targeting asteroids like the potentially dangerous Apophis, with a fleet of probes planning a 2029 flyby. Meanwhile, the Euclid telescope has detected ancient quasars that challenge Big Bang timelines. Additional anomalies in Galaxy Centaurus A and unpredictable sunspot activity suggest current cosmological models remain incomplete. (12) European Heat Waves and Shifting Commodity Markets. Simon Constable. Extreme heat is becoming the norm in Europe, driving demand for air conditioning and pressuring electrical infrastructure. Commodity prices show mixed signals; oil and gas have risen due to Middle East tensions, while industrial metals like copper decline. In Britain, Andy Burnham is positioned as a likely future prime leader. (13) The Invisible Power of Global Data Centers. Simon Constable. Data centers represent the digital future, with Virginia housing the world's highest concentration for the federal government. Despite accounting for over 4% of U.S. electricity usage, a quiz reveals that a quarter of Americans know nothing about these facilities. The U.K.holds the second-highest number of data centers globally. (14) The Sino-American Lunar Race for Permanent Presence. Rick Fisher and Doug Messier. China aims for a permanent lunar presence at the South Pole to potentially deny access to other powers. NASA is countering with a civilian coalition of private partners like SpaceX to develop sustainable infrastructure for future Mars missions. China's architecture mimics Soviet systems, while NASA's Starship requires complex orbital refueling to reach the moon. (15) Risk Aversion and Logistical Timelines for Moon Landings. Rick Fisher and Doug Messier. The Chinesespace program is highly risk-averse to protect the Communist Party's legitimacy. While NASA is "game on," it faces challenges with the Starship lander, which reportedly requires at least 15 refueling launches per mission. China hopes for a manned landing by 2030, while NASA's 2028 timeline remains subject to potential delays. (16)

Religious Persecution and the Rise of Underground Christianity in China. Gordon Chang and Piero Tozzi. Pastor Ezra Jin's release highlights the CCP's continued persecution of underground churches that refuse to answer to the state. Despite intense Sinicization and arrests of figures like Jimmy Lai, Christianity is flourishing in China as a witness for human dignity. Totalitarian control efforts have created an enemy in an underground congregation potentially numbering over 100 million. (3)1903 PERSIA

In this episode of Domino Theory, we dive into the relationship between the U.S. and China, focusing on the recent release of Pastor Ezra Jin and Beijing's decision not to release Jimmy Lai despite President Trump's request. We also discuss the Vatican's failures and wishful thinking in dealing with China.Key takeaways:The significance of Pastor Ezra Jin's release and its impact on U.S.-China diplomacy.Analyzing President Trump's approach to trade and relations with China.The challenges facing China, including economic stagnation and demographic decline.The role of the Vatican in addressing human rights issues in China.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:45 Pastor Ezra Jin's release02:15 Trump's optimism on trade04:47 China's economic challenges07:31 The Vatican's stance on China10:11 Conclusion

Is one of the world's most prominent Catholic journalists being slowly broken in a Hong Kong prison cell? Claire Lai joins Mary Margaret Olsen to tell the story of her father Jimmy Lai — founder of Apple Daily, convicted under a law written to destroy him — and the remarkable faith that has held him through 1,927 days of solitary confinement. With Britain and the Trump administration now raising his case, she has one request: don't let him be forgotten.

STREAM MAKING-JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING GORDON CHANG, MARK CLIFFORD, REBECCA GRANT, CHARLES BURTON, 6-24-26.1906These transcripts from The John Batchelor Show explore several interconnected global crises, beginning with a severe heat wave across Europe and the potential emergence of a "Godzilla" El Niño event. A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the plight of Jimmy Lai, a prominent Hong Kong dissident currently held in solitary confinement by the Chinese government, which analysts interpret as a symbol of the city's eroding freedoms. Further segments detail Chinese espionage efforts in London and the U.S. Navy's tactical control over the Strait of Hormuz despite Iranian claims of a blockade. The sources also examine Canada's complex relationship with China, noting a public perception of threat contrasted by government attempts to diversify trade. Finally, the dialogue highlights shifting Pacific alliances, specifically the growing defense cooperation between Canada and the Philippines as a countermeasure to Chinese expansionism.

The Imprisonment of Jimmy Lai and the Future of Hong Kong. Guest: Mark Clifford and Gordon Chang. Jimmy Lai has spent over 2,000 days in prison, becoming a symbol of resistance against the Chinese Communist Party. His fate mirrors that of Hong Kong, which is transforming into a national security state where surveillance and espionage extend to international cities like London. 11918

SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOCR SHOW, 6-24-2026MEXICO CITYThe Imprisonment of Jimmy Lai and the Future of Hong Kong. Guest: Mark Clifford and Gordon Chang. Jimmy Lai has spent over 2,000 days in prison, becoming a symbol of resistance against the Chinese Communist Party. His fate mirrors that of Hong Kong, which is transforming into a national security state where surveillance and espionage extend to international cities like London. 1US Navy Control and the Opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Guest: Rebecca Grant and Gordon Chang. Despite Iranian claims of closure, the US Navy maintains tactical control over the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring sea lanes remain open for international shipping. Advanced mine-clearing technology and persistent patrols have neutralized threats, though economic signals like the Jones Act waiver remain points of discussion. 2Canadian Public Opinion on the Chinese Threat and US Trade. Guest: Charles Burton and Gordon Chang. A majority of Canadians perceive China as a threat following revelations of election interference and malign influence operations. Meanwhile, concerns grow regarding the reliability of the United States as a partner under the Trumpadministration and the potential abrogation of the USMCA trade agreement. 3Strengthening Defense Ties Between the Philippines and Canada. Guest: Charles Burton and Gordon Chang.Canada is deepening security cooperation with the Philippines to counter Chinese expansionism in the South China Sea. This partnership includes logistical agreements and military training, even as Canada faces challenges protecting its own Arctic sovereignty against increasing Russian and Chinese strategic reach in the North. 4Ukrainian Drone Attacks Cripple Russian Oil Infrastructure. Guest: Michael Bernstam. Cheap Ukrainian drones have successfully targeted Russian refineries and fuel transport, causing significant shortages of gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuel. This technological warfare has forced Russia to ban exports and implement rationing, as traditional air defense systems struggle to counter swarms of small, maneuverable drones. 5Declining Russian Oil Production and the Shadow Fleet. Guest: Michael Bernstam. Russian oil production is falling due to aging fields and a lack of investment, failing to meet OPEC quotas. While Russia utilizes a "shadow fleet" to bypass sanctions, it must offer steep discounts to India and China as Brent crude prices decline and fiscal pressures mount. 6European Heatwave, Commodity Prices, and UK Political Shifts. Guest: Simon Constable. A "Godzilla El Niño" has triggered record-breaking heatwaves across Europe, impacting energy demand and agriculture. Amid falling Brent crude prices, attention shifts to UK politics, where the potential rise of Andy Burnham within the Labour Party signals a move toward higher taxes and increased government spending. 7The Infrastructure and Economic Impact of Data Centers. Guest: Simon Constable. Data centers have become essential infrastructure for AI development, consuming vast amounts of water and electricity. While they provide significant tax revenue for localities, particularly in states like Virginia and Texas, their construction often faces local opposition due to their immense resource requirements and costs. 8Colombia's Presidential Shift Toward Security and Law and Order. Guest: Evan Ellis. Abelardo de la Espriellaappears to have won the Colombian presidency, promising a crackdown on insecurity and organized crime modeled after El Salvador's policies. His victory signals a likely return to strong security cooperation with the United States and a departure from the policies of Gustavo Petro. 9Keiko Fujimori and the Return of the Fujimori Dynasty. Guest: Evan Ellis. Keiko Fujimori has likely secured the Peruvian presidency, narrowly defeating her socialist opponent through overseas votes. Her administration faces a deeply divided nation, widespread illegal mining, and cocaine production, but may benefit from a new bicameral Congress intended to provide greater political stability than previous years. 10Political Instability in Bolivia and Regional Alliances. Guest: Evan Ellis. President Rodrigo Paz has survived a 50-day crisis in Bolivia after declaring a state of emergency to clear blockades led by Evo Morales. While regional allies have supported Paz, Brazil's absence from this coalition highlights President Lula's role as a principal counterweight to US influence. 11Mexico's Economic Growth and USMCA Renegotiation Tensions. Guest: Evan Ellis. The Mexican economy saw its sharpest expansion in five years, yet the upcoming USMCA renegotiation creates significant uncertainty. While Mexicoattempts to appease the US through high-level investigations into cartel-linked officials, the Sheinbaum government remains hesitant to fully confront powerful political figures within its own party. 12Pope Leo XIV's Warning on Artificial Intelligence. Guest: Peter Berkowitz. In a 43,000-word encyclical, Pope Leo XIV warns that artificial intelligence risks dehumanizing society and excluding God from the human experience. While acknowledging technological benefits, the Pope emphasizes the danger of treating humans as mere means and the erosion of authentic human relationships in favor of machines. 13AI in Education and the Necessity of Liberal Learning. Guest: Peter Berkowitz. The rise of AI in academia tempts students to bypass the essential struggle of thinking, leading to intellectual atrophy. Educators argue that liberal education is now more vital than ever to help students cultivate a flourishing mind and recognize the limitations of technological shortcuts. 14Private Innovation and Infrastructure Challenges in Space. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. SpaceX successfully defeated legal challenges in Texas while NASA's aging infrastructure faces funding gaps and restrictive laws. Meanwhile, private startups like Catalyst are attempting robotic satellite rescues, signaling a shift toward a capitalist model in space operations as government agencies struggle with delays and inefficiencies. 15New Discoveries in Planetary Science and Cosmology. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. The Lucy probe's flyby of asteroid Donaldjohanson revealed a "tumbling peanut" shape, providing insights into its 155-million-year history. Additionally, observations of asymmetric radio galaxies highlight galactic movement through the intergalactic medium, while debates continue among cosmologists regarding the existence and properties of dark energy. 16One correction folded in: Labour Party (UK spelling) in file 7. I also expanded the file 9 headline's "Law Order" to "Law and Order" — flag if you wanted it left verbatim.

Michael McFaul discusses the Mar-a-Lago meeting between Trump and Xi, supporting the concept of "peace through strength" but emphasizing that engaging autocrats should not mean abandoning democratic values. He argues that the United States must work harder to keep allies united and should explicitly advocate for human rights during high-level meetings. Raising individual cases of repression, such as that of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong, serves to inspire "small D democrats" living under tyranny. McFaul advocates for a self-help alliance system among democracies to counter cooperation between Russia, China, and Iran. (6)

In this episode, you'll hear how an immigrant entrepreneur leveraged authenticity, storytelling, and smart content strategy to turn a resume platform into a powerful engine for referrals, hiring, and personal brand.   In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Jimmy Lai discuss: Using LinkedIn as an “Instagram” for lawyers and professionals Immigration journey, E-2 visa risk, and launching a law firm from scratch Clarifying goals on LinkedIn: clients, brand, or relationships Authenticity, lived experience, and personal storytelling in content Hooks, comments, and practical tactics to grow reach and engagement   Key Takeaways: Treating LinkedIn as a place to learn, be entertained, and build real relationships can transform it from a static resume into a dynamic growth channel. Before posting, get crystal clear on whether your primary goal is client acquisition, personal branding, or relationship-building, and let that drive your strategy. Consistent content built around a few focused pillars and rooted in lived experience tends to outperform generic, “professional-only” posts. Engagement doesn't start with posting; thoughtful, value-adding comments can be the safest and most effective way to warm up and build relationships. Sustainable business growth often requires letting go of the need to do everything yourself and delegating to capable people who can reliably handle 80% of the work.   "My big mistake as an entrepreneur was thinking that I'm the best at everything, and I need to do everything myself… we didn't hit exponential growth until I was ready to let go." —  Jimmy Lai   Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again.   Join the Be That Lawyer Community and connect with ambitious lawyers who are serious about growing their book of business, strengthening their brand, and becoming confident, consistent rainmakers.   Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don't miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/   Thank you to our Sponsor! LEX Reception: https://www.lexreception.com/partners/bethatlawyer Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.com/   Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/   About Jimmy Lai: Drawing from a diverse, multicultural background and a multilingual K-12 education spanning Taiwan, the United States, Japan, Germany, and England, Jimmy has always possessed a global perspective. This unique background, combined with his experience as an international student, fueled his passion for immigration law and his desire to help others achieve the American Dream. After earning his undergraduate marketing degree from the University of Central Oklahoma—where he was honored as the sole recipient of the prestigious Top Central Man award—he went on to complete his JD/MBA at the University of Oklahoma in 2021. Rather than taking the conventional route of joining an established firm as a junior associate, Jimmy co-founded Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC in 2022 alongside his close friend Braden Turner to "do law differently." As the firm's managing attorney, Jimmy has guided Lai & Turner through rapid growth, expanding its services from immigration to include estate planning, criminal defense, real estate, and personal injury, all while ensuring every client receives premier representation rooted in the firm's core values.   Connect with Jimmy Lai:   Website: https://www.laiturnerlaw.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmylai-jdmba   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911   Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Leadership in a law firm requires more than just legal expertise, it demands strategic delegation and authentic communication. In this episode, Jimmy Lye shares his journey from international student to successful law firm owner, highlighting the importance of treating your team as partners and fostering a growth culture.Jimmy discusses how leveraging LinkedIn helped him attract top talent, connect with professionals, and generate client referrals. He emphasizes the value of delegating operations and marketing tasks to trusted leaders, freeing up time to focus on strategic growth and client service.In this episode you'll learn: The importance of leadership over technical prowess How to build trust and delegate effectively Strategies for leveraging LinkedIn for hiring and business development The mindset shift needed to embrace vulnerability and growth Practical steps to foster culture and retain talented team members This conversation offers actionable insights into leadership, scaling, and managing a profitable, healthy law firm. It's a practical guide for owners looking to lead thoughtfully and grow intentionally.Today's episode is sponsored by The Managing Partners Mastermind. Click here to schedule an interview to see if we're a fit: https://arraydigital.com/the-managing-partners-mastermind/ Chapters (00:00:00) - Law Firm Leaders: LinkedIn Is Worth Its Weight(00:00:51) - Managing a Law Firm(00:01:35) - How to become a LinkedIn Influencer(00:02:15) - Startup entrepreneur Jimmy Lai on How to Get Out of Debt(00:06:46) - Are You the Best Lawyer in the Firm?(00:14:00) - Having a CFO in the business(00:14:43) - How LinkedIn is helping my Law Firm(00:15:49) - How to Use LinkedIn to Gain a Lead(00:21:26) - How to Inspire the Law Firm's Team on LinkedIn(00:25:56) - Keep Your Employees Happy or Go for It(00:30:09) - How to get yourself out there on LinkedIn

The National Security Hour with Blanquita Cullum – Jimmy Lai's imprisonment in Hong Kong highlights the growing clash between Communist Chinese authority and fundamental freedoms. Apple Daily's pro-democracy voice draws prosecution under national security laws, while Amnesty International and global advocates call for Lai's release and warn that free speech, human dignity, and rights remain under attack today...

The National Security Hour with Blanquita Cullum – Jimmy Lai's imprisonment in Hong Kong highlights the growing clash between Communist Chinese authority and fundamental freedoms. Apple Daily's pro-democracy voice draws prosecution under national security laws, while Amnesty International and global advocates call for Lai's release and warn that free speech, human dignity, and rights remain under attack today...

Sam Brownback, the former senator, governor, and ambassador, outlines the strategic importance of religious freedom in confronting China, the role of the U.S. in supporting persecuted faith communities, and the potential for religion to influence foreign policy. The discussion with Mark Simon and Christian Whiton on "Domino Theory" highlights the intersection of human rights, national security, and moral leadership.Brownback is the author of the new book, "China's War on Faith." Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:39 Religious Freedom as a Strategic Issue05:34 The Role of the U.S. in Promoting Religious Freedom10:48 The Vatican's Approach to China15:07 The Need for a Unified Moral Stance20:11 Retail Politics and Religious Freedom24:06 Surprises in Writing About China28:11 The Story of Jimmy Lai and Its Implications33:58 Future Directions for U.S.-China Relations

Summits between US and Chinese leaders are important events. They provide opportunities to discuss sensitive issues, manage friction, and to identify ways to solve problems and promote cooperation where possible. A great deal of preparation usually goes into a US-China summit, involving hundreds of phone calls, virtual, and in-person meetings between US and Chinese officials.   The May 14-15 summit in Beijing was atypical, perhaps not surprisingly since Donald Trump is a very atypical president. Today we are going to talk about the summit – the process and well as the outcomes and the implications for the US-China relationship and American interests.  Joining us today to talk about these issues is Sarah Beran. Sarah Beran was senior director for China and Taiwan affairs in the National Security Council during the Biden administration from 2022 to 2024. She was subsequently deputy chief of mission at the US Embassy in Beijing. At the NSC, she led strategic preparations for multiple summits between President Joe Biden and Xi Jinping. After her 23 years in government service, Sarah joined Macro Advisory Partners.   Timestamps:   [00:00] Introduction   [01:45] Differences in Preparing for the Summit   [03:33] What Was Missing from Trump's Itinerary   [08:18] US and Chinese Objectives for the Summit   [12:30] Constructive Strategic Stability as a Framework   [18:09] Iran, North Korea, and Denuclearization in Chinese Policy [23:55] Tension over Taiwan Language   [29:15] Potential Reactions to Trump Calling President Lai   [30:12] Future of US-China Relations and Ally Reactions 

Focusing on U.S. leadership, Michael McFaul discusses the importance of "peace through strength" while maintaining robust alliances with fellow democracies. He critiques recent U.S. foreign policy for causing doubt among allies and urges a return to a values-based approach that supports dissidents like Jimmy Lai. McFaul warns of a "self-help alliance" between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, who cooperate to sustain their respective regimes. To counter this, he argues that the "small-D democrats" of the world must remain united and vocal about human rights. Supporting global liberty requires both military preparedness and moral clarity. (6/8)1900 BRUSSELS

As Catholics around the world await Pope Leo XIV's encyclical on AI coming out early next week, Father Robert Spitzer joins to discuss what we might expect from the document especially as it pertains to the dangers of artificial intelligence and the impact this new digital arena is having on the economy. As creator of his own AI tools, the EWTN host also discusses why theologically sound AI concepts must be developed to combat the secular nature of so many mainstream options that have led to depression and even death among teens. On the heels of the White House administration's trip to China, former ambassador-at-large of international religious freedom Sam Brownback joins to discuss his new book and the many grievances of the Chinese Communist Party. He also sheds light on the fate of Jimmy Lai and so many other faithful that are being held on trumped-up charges. Msgr. Roger Landry also joins as we prepare our hearts for Pentecost Sunday. Catch the show every Saturday at 7amET/5pmET on EWTN radio!

What should the United States realistically expect from high-level diplomacy with China — and where are the real risks in the relationship? In this episode of The China Desk, host Steve Yates is joined by Andrew Harding, Policy Analyst for National Security and Indo-Pacific Affairs at The Heritage Foundation, for a detailed breakdown of President Trump's recent summit with Xi Jinping and the broader future of U.S.-China relations. Harding explains how the Heritage Foundation developed a framework for evaluating the summit — identifying what would constitute favorable outcomes for the United States, what risks to avoid, and how to think strategically about long-term competition with China. The discussion explores how the summit ultimately functioned less as a transformational moment and more as a “maintenance check” on an increasingly competitive relationship between Washington and Beijing. Major topics include: • Expectations surrounding the Trump–Xi summit • Favorable vs unfavorable outcomes for U.S. policy • Rare earths, export controls, and AI competition • Why advanced semiconductor restrictions matter • China's role in fentanyl trafficking and leverage • Taiwan and concerns over shifting U.S. policy language • Agricultural trade and strategic economic competition • China's support for Iran and geopolitical implications • Human rights concerns, including Jimmy Lai and religious persecution • Why the U.S.–China relationship remains structurally competitive • The future of AI rivalry between Washington and Beijing • Strategic dependencies and supply chain vulnerabilities The episode also dives into Harding's earlier work on the Pacific Islands and the Compacts of Free Association (COFA), highlighting why the region has become increasingly important in the context of U.S.-China competition. Additional topics include: • Chinese influence operations in the Pacific Islands • Why Palau, Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands matter strategically • Heritage Foundation's role in supporting COFA renewal efforts • The “Pacific Pivot” strategy for long-term U.S. engagement A major takeaway from the conversation is that future U.S.-China engagement should focus on protecting American strategic advantages — especially in AI, advanced technology, and national security — while avoiding concessions that weaken U.S. leverage. The episode closes with a broader discussion on what to watch for ahead of a possible future Xi visit to the United States and why export controls and AI competition may become the defining issue of the next phase of U.S.-China relations. 00:00 — Intro + Andrew Harding joins 02:08 — From Russia to China policy work 06:21 — Pacific Islands strategy and COFA agreements 10:14 — Heritage's “Pacific Pivot” strategy 11:16 — Expectations for the Trump–Xi summit 13:53 — Favorable outcomes for the U.S. 16:19 — Unfavorable outcomes and red lines 19:09 — Did the summit accomplish anything? 22:06 — Engagement vs strategic competition 27:07 — Preparing for a future Xi visit to the U.S. 32:19 — What to watch next: AI and export controls 35:23 — Final thoughts + closing Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@ChinaDeskFNW

FAN MAIL--We would love YOUR feedback--Send us a Text MessageThis is a video and audio podcast:   video hereThe loudest take on the U.S. China summit was that it went nowhere. We see something else: a negotiation structure being built in real time, with the next high-stakes round already scheduled in Washington just 90 days out. Using Michael Pillsbury's The Hundred-Year Marathon as our guide, we break down what matters beneath the ceremony and why patience, timelines, and leverage decide more than headlines.We start with the overlooked signal: Trump doesn't travel with only diplomats, he brings business power. Nvidia, Apple, and Tesla are not props, they represent AI chip constraints, supply chain exposure, and major foreign investment inside China. When CEOs are part of the trip, “trade talks” become a live map of technology controls, market access, and capital flows. That changes how you should read every public line about jets, tariffs, and “stalemates.”Then we walk through Beijing's pre-summit red lines and the chips that remain unspent: the unresolved Taiwan arms package, Iran sanctions relief floated but not signed, and a human rights flashpoint placed on the global record with the name Jimmy Lai. The biggest story, though, is September. A compressed timeline forces decisions, limits delay tactics, and raises the value of every card both sides are holding.Finally, we get to the twist Pillsbury couldn't fully account for in 2015: oil and energy pressure. If sanctions enforcement tightens supply routes and China's growth machine needs fuel, how does that reshape U.S. negotiating leverage, Iran's survival calculus, and the price of a deal?Key Points from the Episode:• framing the Beijing meeting as an opening move, not an ending  • bringing Nvidia, Apple, and Tesla as real economic leverage  • why AI chips, supply chains, and foreign investment shape diplomacy  • putting Jimmy Lai on the record as a strategic signal  • testing China's “four red lines” without spending key chips  • keeping the Taiwan arms package unresolved as leverage  • floating Iran sanctions relief without signing anything  • why a 90-day timeline shifts bargaining power  • the oil constraint Pillsbury could not predict, and what it means for China and Iran  • the closing question: spend the sanctions chip or hold it   Be sure to check out our show page at teammojoacademy.com, where we have everything we discussed in this podcast as well as other great resources.

1. Founding of the U.S. and AOC The Declaration of Independence (1776) and Constitution (~1787–1789) created the foundation of American democracy. These founding principles (e.g., “all men are created equal”) are portrayed as morally correct ideals, even though the country initially practiced slavery. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) and the left: They misinterpret U.S. history (e.g., framing the Revolution as anti-billionaire rather than anti-monarchy). They promote “ignorance” and misinformation about democracy and capitalism. They portray progressive ideology: Anti-law enforcement Supportive of open borders Fear-based (e.g., warnings about government overreach) Detention systems (like ICE facilities) are reasonable for enforcing law, not tools of oppression. Historical examples of mass detention (e.g., Soviet gulags, China, etc.) are linked to leftist governments, suggesting a warning about expanding state power. Republicans led abolition and civil rights gains, while Democrats historically supported slavery and segregation. 2. Virginia Supreme Court & Redistricting Dispute A Virginia redistricting plan heavily favoring Democrats (10–1 advantage) was struck down by the Virginia Supreme Court. Democrats responded by proposing structural changes (e.g., court reforms) to regain power. This is framed as an attempt to undermine judicial independence. Mentions a ruling that: Racial gerrymandering is unconstitutional. The ruling limits how districts can be drawn based on race. The speaker claims Democrats rely on such practices to maintain political control. 3. China Policy and Political Prisoners The final section shifts to foreign policy: A bipartisan U.S. Senate resolution (passed 100–0) urges the President to: Raise cases of political prisoners in China (e.g., Jimmy Lai, detained pastors). Key takeaway: The U.S. is encouraged to use diplomatic pressure to promote human rights and religious freedom. There are three priorities in talks with China: Human rights advocacy (release of detainees) Economic interests (trade, Boeing deals, agriculture exports) Geopolitics (China’s influence over Iran) Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Claire Lai joins Brian Kilmeade to react to the President's recent comments regarding her father, pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai. After the President admitted that freeing the 77-year-old prisoner is a "tough one" for President Xi, Claire shares her perspective on the administration's commitment and the dire conditions her father faces. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We learn more about Rerum Novarum, the 135-year-old document by Pope Leo XIII that still shapes the Church today. Meanwhile, Trump pushes for progress on the case of Catholic political prisoner Jimmy Lai.

President Donald Trump said on Friday that Taiwan was a major topic of discussion during his summit with Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping and added that he had not yet decided whether to proceed with a major U.S. arms package for the island.Trump also said he thinks Xi is seriously considering releasing detained pastor Ezra Jin in China, but that the case of jailed media tycoon Jimmy Lai "is a tough one." Lai was sentenced to 20 years in jail in what Amnesty International calls a "travesty of justice" and an attack on press freedom.

It's Thursday, May 14th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Chinese communists arrest 6 Christians for teaching Sunday School Communist authorities in southwest China recently arrested six Christians for conducting Sunday school classes. The Christians face charges of “organizing minors to engage in activities undermining public order.” Dr. Bob Fu, founder and president of ChinaAid, said, “This case — both the charges and the process — mark a shocking new phase in China's persecution of religious minorities. … Criminalizing Sunday School and the peaceful sharing of faith with children is an outrageous abuse of law and a direct assault on the fundamental rights of parents and churches.” In Matthew 19:14, Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of Heaven.” Trump to talk to Chinese president about imprisoned Christians U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Beijing, China yesterday.  He plans to discuss Taiwan, trade, and the Iran war with Chinese President Xi Jinping. President Trump said he would also discuss recent and high profile cases of Christians being imprisoned in China. Listen to his comments first about pro-democracy publisher Jimmy Lai followed by comments about Pastor Ezra Jin. TRUMP: “Jimmy Lai, he caused lots of turmoil for China. He tried to do the right thing. He wasn't successful, went to jail, and people would like him out. And I'd like to see him get out too. I'll bring him up again. I have brought him up. “And there's another gentleman, a pastor, as you know, with a beautiful daughter and son-in-law, that would like to see him get out. I'm going to bring his name up.” California mayor resigns after spying for China In the United States, a California mayor resigned on Monday, May 11th, after acting as an agent for the Chinese government.  The Justice Department recently charged Eileen Wang, the mayor of Arcadia, with acting as an illegal agent for China. Arcadia is located 13 miles from downtown Los Angeles. Wang agreed to plead guilty to the charges. She worked on behalf of Chinese officials by promoting their propaganda in the United States. FBI Director Kash Patel wrote on X, “FBI and our federal partners continue to move aggressively to root out this kind of influence in American institutions all over the country.” Businesses abandoning California over high taxes and regulation More businesses are exiting California for states with lower taxes and less regulations.  The latest example is KB Home, reports The Washington Times. The American homebuilding company is moving its headquarters from Los Angeles to Tempe, Arizona.  Other major companies that have relocated their headquarters out of California include Oracle, Tesla, Chevron, Charles Schwab, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. The most popular destination states include Texas, Tennessee, Arizona, Nevada, and Florida.  Proverbs 29:2 reminds us, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” Democrat California Governor Gavin Newsom is on the wrong side of that equation. Texas town is 97th American city to ban abortion Life News reports a Texas town became the 97th city in America to ban abortion. The City of Muleshoe, Texas voted 4-1 on Monday, May 11th, to adopt the Sanctuary City for the Unborn ordinance.  Mark Lee Dickson, founder of Sanctuary Cities for the Unborn, said, “This vote would not have been possible without the residents who gathered signatures and stood for the protection of pregnant mothers and unborn children. Muleshoe has now joined dozens of Texas communities taking a stand against abortion trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable women and children.” U.S. overdose drug deaths fell last year The number of reported drug overdose deaths fell in the United States last year. The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention found there were over 68,000 drug overdose deaths in 2025. That number is down 14 percent compared to the previous year. However, overdose deaths are up 30 percent from a decade ago.  The states with the biggest drop in overdose deaths last year included New York, Virginia, and Oregon. But a few states saw a significant uptick in such overdose deaths, including New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado.   White House hosts 9-hour prayer event on National Mall And finally, the White House is hosting a nine-hour prayer event at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Sunday.  The event is called Rededicate 250: A National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise & Thanksgiving. It's one of many events this year to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Top U.S. officials speaking at the prayer event include Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and House Speaker Mike Johnson. The event's website describes the jubilee as a “historic gathering to give thanks for God's providence, reflect on our nation's story, and rededicate America as One Nation under God.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, May 14th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

To the sound of a cheering crowd, US President Donald Trump touches down in China for important talks with the Chinese leader, Xi Jinping. The two leaders are expected to discuss tariffs, the Iran war and US weapon sales to Taiwan. It's the first visit to China by a US president since President Trump's last visit in 2017. Ahead of the trip, Donald Trump said he would raise the case of the imprisoned Hong Kong media mogul, Jimmy Lai. Also in this podcast: King Charles officially opens the British parliament, as the country's leader, Keir Starmer, fights to stay in office. Plans to build Australia's first Trump tower have been scrapped because the brand is "toxic". South Africa's top police chief has appeared in court, charged with violating public finance law. And a man in the US has been sentenced to two years in prison for breaking into a car and stealing hard drives containing unreleased music by Beyoncé.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

Donald Trump lands in Beijing for meetings with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, with agenda items that include trade and tariffs, the future of Taiwan, and the U.S. computer chips that are powering American artificial intelligence. Plus, will Trump make good on his promise to push for the freedom of Hong Kong's Jimmy Lai?    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump regresa esta semana a Pekín casi una década después de su última visita en 2017. El escenario y el anfitrión son los mismos, pero las cosas han cambiado mucho desde entonces. Trump ya no es el recién llegado dispuesto a romper con China, sino un presidente curtido en su segundo mandato, empeñado en demostrar que su relación con Xi Jinping va mucho más allá de cubrir el expediente diplomático. Ambos llevan meses intercambiando cartas personales, un detalle revelador de cómo la geopolítica del siglo XXI ha dejado atrás los escrúpulos ideológicos. Pesan más las cadenas de suministro y la balanza comercial que los derechos humanos, como demuestra el caso del editor hongkonés Jimmy Lai, condenado a 20 años de prisión y cuya liberación Trump no tiene intención alguna en pedir. El cambio respecto a China es sustancial. Trump irrumpió en política en 2016 acusando a los chinos de robar empleos y patentes. Durante su primer mandato les declaró la guerra comercial, persiguió a Huawei, intentó prohibir TikTok y restringió la exportación de semiconductores. La pandemia terminó por romper la relación. Biden mantuvo y endureció esa política, lo que terminó forjando un consenso en el Congreso en todo lo relativo a China. Ese consenso se está resquebrajando ahora, pero desde el partido republicano. El gobierno ha autorizado ventas de chips de Nvidia, ha despedido a expertos en China del Consejo de Seguridad Nacional y ha pactado con ByteDance que mantenga el control del algoritmo de TikTok. Dos razones explican el cambio de parecer. La primera es que Trump ha centralizado las decisiones en un círculo mínimo encabezado por Witkoff, Kushner y el secretario del Tesoro, Scott Bessent, que es quien impone su doctrina de equilibrio con China. Marco Rubio, antaño azote del partido comunista chino, guarda hoy un silencio que habla por sí mismo. La segunda razón es más prosaica. China ha aprendido a devolver los golpes. Cuando Trump elevó los aranceles hasta el 145% el año pasado, Xi Jinping respondió con controles a la exportación de tierras raras, lo que hizo cundir el pánico y forzó la tregua que acordaron en Corea del Sur hace un año. Trump llega a esta cumbre con el lastre de la guerra de Irán. Necesita que Xi Jinping presione a los ayatolás, principales suministradores de petróleo a China, pero, de forma un tanto paradójica, es la armada estadounidense la que impide salir los petroleros con destino a las refinerías chinas. Xi Jinping llega con una economía debilitada y una demanda interna muy floja. Ambos necesitan que la cumbre sea un éxito y que puedan presumir de haber alcanzado grandes acuerdos. Sobre la mesa está Taiwán. Xi Jinping quiere que Trump se oponga formalmente a la independencia de la isla, una concesión que tendría un valor simbólico importante. En Pekín lo fían todo al tiempo. Saben que a Trump le quedan menos de tres años en el cargo y no desean provocarle. Tiempo es lo único que necesitan para que su economía remonte y Estados Unidos se canse de pelear en demasiados frentes. En La ContraRéplica: 0:00 Introducción 3:31 Cita en Pekín 35:17 Lidl, nº1 en calidad-precio 36:20 Sube la gasolina en EEUU 47:21 Contradicciones de la regularización · Canal de Telegram: https://t.me/lacontracronica · “Contra el pesimismo”… https://amzn.to/4m1RX2R · “Hispanos. Breve historia de los pueblos de habla hispana”… https://amzn.to/428js1G · “La ContraHistoria del comunismo”… https://amzn.to/39QP2KE · “La ContraHistoria de España. Auge, caída y vuelta a empezar de un país en 28 episodios”… https://amzn.to/3kXcZ6i · “Contra la Revolución Francesa”… https://amzn.to/4aF0LpZ · “Lutero, Calvino y Trento, la Reforma que no fue”… https://amzn.to/3shKOlK Apoya La Contra en: · Patreon... https://www.patreon.com/diazvillanueva · iVoox... https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-contracronica_sq_f1267769_1.html · Paypal... https://www.paypal.me/diazvillanueva Sígueme en: · Web... https://diazvillanueva.com · Twitter... https://twitter.com/diazvillanueva · Facebook... https://www.facebook.com/fernandodiazvillanueva1/ · Instagram... https://www.instagram.com/diazvillanueva · Linkedin… https://www.linkedin.com/in/fernando-d%C3%ADaz-villanueva-7303865/ · Flickr... https://www.flickr.com/photos/147276463@N05/?/ · Pinterest... https://www.pinterest.com/fernandodiazvillanueva Encuentra mis libros en: · Amazon... https://www.amazon.es/Fernando-Diaz-Villanueva/e/B00J2ASBXM #FernandoDiazVillanueva #donaldtrump #xijinping Escucha el episodio completo en la app de iVoox, o descubre todo el catálogo de iVoox Originals

The Scott Adams SchoolCome join Erica Marcela & Owen as we give our opinions on news, current events and more.PLEASE give us a THUMBS UP, LIke and Subscribe.

The U.S. annual inflation rate rose to 3.8 percent in April, according to new Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Economists had forecast a reading of 3.7 percent. Core inflation, which strips out the volatile energy and food prices, edged up to 2.8 percent, above the consensus estimate of 2.7 percent.President Donald Trump is set to depart for Beijing on Tuesday for a two-day summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Talks will focus on trade, technology, and security. Trump also plans to raise other issues, including Taiwan, Iran, and Russia. He also said he'll bring up the cases of imprisoned Hong Kong publisher Jimmy Lai and Chinese pastor Ezra Jin during discussions with Xi.

2. The Health Crisis and Potential Release of Jimmy Lai Guest: Mark Simon and Gordon Chang Summary: Mark Simon details the deteriorating condition of 79-year-old Jimmy Lai in a Hong Kong prison. The discussion explores potential diplomatic intervention by Donald Trump and critiques the British government's failure to effectively challenge Beijing. 2

STREAMING MAKING OF THE JBS, FEATURING GORDON CHANG, VICTORIA COATES, MARK SIMON, STEVE YATES, 4-29-26"SEND YOUR BINOCULARS TO THE NAVY"This transcript from The John Bachelor Show explores the shifting dynamics of the special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom, specifically under the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The participants argue that Britain's global influence is declining, citing military inadequacies and a failure to protect strategic assets like Diego Garcia. The conversation then transitions to the dire health of imprisoned Hong Kong activist Jimmy Lai, framing his treatment as a symbol of the Chinese Communist Party's uncompromising authoritarianism. Furthermore, the experts analyze a potential summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, questioning whether such a meeting is appropriate while China supports adversaries like Iran and Russia. Ultimately, the speakers advocate for a tougher stance against the "devil's triangle" of Beijing, Moscow, and Tehran, suggesting that the U.S. should prioritize newer European allies like Poland over traditional partners.

Jimmy Lai, manager of the Next.js team at Vercel, joins the podcast to explain the adapters API, why it exists, how it fixes Next.js self-hosting pain across platforms like Cloudflare, AWS Amplify, and Netlify, and what it unlocks for partial pre-rendering. He also shares where the team is headed: server components, feature flags at request time, and building the best agentic developer experience for a world where agents write most of the code. Links Website: https://jimmyl.ai/ X: https://x.com/feedthejim Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/feedthej.im Resources Adapters API: https://nextjs.org/docs/app/api-reference/adapters We want to hear from you! How did you find us? Did you see us on Twitter? In a newsletter? Or maybe we were recommended by a friend? Fill out our listener survey! https://t.co/oKVAEXipxu Let us know by sending an email to our producer, Elizabeth, at elizabeth.becz@logrocket.com, or tweet at us at PodRocketPod. Check out our newsletter! https://blog.logrocket.com/the-replay-newsletter/ Follow us. Get free stickers. Follow us on Apple Podcasts, fill out this form, and we'll send you free PodRocket stickers! What does LogRocket do? LogRocket provides AI-first session replay and analytics that surfaces the UX and technical issues impacting user experiences. Start understanding where your users are struggling by trying it for free at LogRocket.com. Try LogRocket for free today. Chapters

Mark Simon reports on Jimmy Lai's persecution and solitary confinement in Hong Kong. He argues Xi Jinping'shardline stance reflects internal insecurity, using Lai as a deterrent while his public awareness grows.1903

On Tuesday's Mark Levin Show, Joe Kent, the former deputy at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, is a reportedly serial leaker who was hostile to President Trump's agenda and rejected the commander-in-chief's decisions on military operations in Iran. His resignation letter, written publicly for the press and Democrats rather than privately to the president, is intentionally crafted to create controversy, undermine the president's war effort against, question the existence of an imminent threat, give aid and comfort to enemies, and dishonor current military personnel. Later, Sebastien Lai, son of Jimmy Lai who's imprisoned in Hong Kong, calls in. Jimmy Lai is a prominent courageous Hong Kong pro-democracy advocate, media owner, and journalist who stood up against China's crackdown on Hong Kong's freedoms. Despite his age, Lai has been imprisoned since the crackdown began. Sebastian expresses gratitude for Trump's public support and mentions that releasing the elderly Lai would be an easy, moral, and rational gesture for China, especially amid upcoming diplomatic opportunities, but stresses that more pressure is needed as his father's health rapidly worsens and his death in prison would serve no one's interest. Afterward, Sen Rick Scott calls in to explain that the Senate must look at all the options to pass the SAVE America act because the Democrat party wants fraud. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When pro-democracy protesters marched in the streets in Hong Kong in 2019, China responded by arresting thousands, including the leaders of the movement. One of the arrested was Jimmy Lai, who had used his newspaper to campaign for democracy. This month, he received a 20-year jail sentence. In an interview, Michael Barbaro speaks to Mr. Lai's son, Sebastien Lai, about the sentence, what it means for the pro-democracy movement and where Hong Kong may go from here. Guest: Sebastien Lai, a democracy activist and the son of the pro-democracy media entrepreneur Jimmy Lai. Background reading: A Hong Kong court sentenced Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison. The sentence for the media mogul shows how Hong Kong enforces Xi Jinping's red lines with a new severity. Listen to our interview with Jimmy Lai from 2020. Photo: Andrew Testa for The New York Times For more information on today's episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.  Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. For more podcasts and narrated articles, download The New York Times app at nytimes.com/app. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The latest release of FBI files reveals little evidence that Jeffrey Epstein ran a sex-trafficking ring, Vice President JD Vance becomes the highest-ranking American official to visit Armenia, and the Chinese government sentences pro-democracy British businessman Jimmy Lai to prison. Get the facts first with Morning Wire.- - -Ep. 2625- - -Wake up with new Morning Wire merch: https://bit.ly/4lIubt3- - -Today's Sponsors:Equip Foods - Equip's Prime Bar is a real food protein bar with nothing to hide: just 11 ingredients and 20g of clean protein - made from ingredients you can pronounce like collagen, beef tallow, colostrum, cocoa butter - and sweetened naturally with just date and honey. Bringing good, clean habits into 2026 is made simple with Equip. Morning Wire listeners will get 25% off one-time purchases, or 40% off first subscription orders for a limited time by heading to https://equipfoods.com/wire and using code WIRE at checkout.Lean - Get 20% off when you enter code WIRE at https://TakeLean.com- - -Privacy Policy: https://www.dailywire.com/privacymorning wire,morning wire podcast,the morning wire podcast,Georgia Howe,John Bickley,daily wire podcast,podcast,news podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Monday's Mark Levin Show, what's happening in the West, and particularly the United States is an unprecedented form of self-sabotage or national suicide, where the greatest nation deliberately opened its borders, imported people from regions who refuse to assimilate, contribute, or integrate, and instead seek to destroy and conquer from within. This is not a hostile invasion, but a celebrated parade enabled by the Democrat Party, liberal groups in Europe and elsewhere, and secularists, and who believe in unrestricted openness. No society in ancient or modern history has survived such deliberate self-destruction, and the United States will not either. When Islam conquers lands, it imposes its faith and will without allowing diversity of viewpoints or beliefs, often eliminating opposition—including among Muslims themselves. This ideology has now significantly entered the United States, where a movement exploits Western values like free speech, freedom of assembly, religion, and due process to undermine and destroy them, while Sharia law in fundamentalist countries rejects these freedoms. Also, Iran poses a severe threat to future American generations, potentially acquiring nuclear warheads on ICBMs and vast ballistic missile capabilities if not confronted now. The regime is currently at its weakest point in 47 years, crippled by Israeli strikes that destroyed its air force, navy, radar, and Russian-supplied air defenses. Why are we negotiating with them? Later, Rep. Chris Smith calls in and strongly condemns the Hong Kong court's 20-year sentence imposed on 78-year-old Jimmy Lai. It's a horrific life sentence for a man of faith, conviction, legendary entrepreneur, and champion of free speech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices