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Colonel Jeff McCausland discusses stalled negotiations with Iran, noting the heavy influence of the Revolutionary Guard Corps over the diplomatic process. He analyzes the military difficulty of seizing Kharg Island and the profound impact of Ukrainian drones on the Russian front, suggesting that drone saturation has leveled the battlefield and interdicted Russian resupply lines. (11)1900 THE PERSIAN PROBLEM
Conrad Black emphasizes the vital economic ties between the U.S. and Canada, noting Canada provides 25% of U.S.aluminum and 20% of its uranium. He expresses confidence that Prime Minister Mark Carney will build necessary oil pipelines to both coasts to benefit the Canadian economy, despite opposition from environmental groups and Carney's own "green instincts." (15)1521
Jack Burnham discusses China and North Korea's strategic alignment, noting that Xi Jinping's festive visit to Pyongyang signals China's willingness to de-emphasize denuclearization in favor of regional stability and strategic balancing against the US. North Korea, now an "arsenal of tyranny," leverages its military experience from the Ukrainian front lines to strengthen its regime. (5)1919
Anatol Lieven discusses NATO's top US commander, General Grynkewich, who states Russia is not looking for conflict despite European concerns about US military withdrawals. Lieven agrees, noting that the Russian army is bogged down in Ukraine, making a deliberate attack on NATO members like the Baltics appear militarily absurd. (1)1919
Joel Kotkin disputes the label of "fascist" for the MAGA movement, noting it lacks the youth-driven, paramilitary organization characteristic of movements led by Mussolini or Hitler. He describes MAGA as a chaotic coalition of various interest groups held together by Donald Trump's personality. Kotkin emphasizes that using the term as a political slur ruins the possibility of necessary civil discourse. (8)1936
Bob Zimmerman tracks the transition to commercial space, noting that private companies like Vast are leading the race to build stations to replace the aging ISS. He discusses Amazon's struggle to launch its satellite constellation due to rocket delays, contrasted with SpaceX's efficiency. Zimmerman also reports on a milestone for SpaceX, as a single Falcon 9 booster successfully completed a record 35th flight. (15)192022
Greg Scarlatoiu analyzes Xi Jinping's visit to Pyongyang, noting that Kim Jong-un now views himself as a strategic equal to Xi and Putin. Despite sanctions, North Korea's economy shows a facade of growth fueled by billions made exporting artillery and special forces to Russia. Kim is also modernizing his security apparatus into a structure similar to Russia's FSB. (1)
Jonathan Schanzer discusses the Israeli offensive in Lebanon, noting that Iran's influence is shrinking. He highlights Qatar's role as a state sponsor of terrorism that buys American influence through massive investments, totaling hundreds of billions. Schanzer warns that Qatar and Turkey remain primary patrons for the radical Muslim Brotherhoodextremist group. (4)1904
Gregory Copley analyzes the downing of a US helicopter off Oman, noting strategic differences between American and Israeli objectives. While the US seeks a deal, Israel aims for regime change. Copley highlights the weakened state of the IRGC leadership and discusses how new global oil sources are currently mitigating Iranian threats. (9)1971 IRAN
Joel Kotkin Joel Kotkin examines AI's economic impact, noting that AI companies operate with small staffs and high capital. This trend leads to significant growth for firms but widespread layoffs for well-educated professionals in other industries.1945
Preview for Later Today: Bob Zimmerman critiques NASA's expensive X-59 project, noting private firm Boom Supersonic achieved quiet supersonic flight cheaper and faster, highlighting NASA's inefficiency compared to private enterprise's superior speed and cost-effectiveness in aerospace innovation.1957
Relations between China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea currently stand at a new historical starting point, facing new development opportunities and shouldering new missions of the times, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, said on Monday.Xi made the remarks in a signed article published in Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the DPRK, ahead of his state visit to the country on Monday and Tuesday, his first in seven years.Xi said that he looks forward to meeting with Kim Jong-un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK, to discuss the traditional friendship between the two countries and exchange views on the overall development of bilateral relations.Xi said that China and the DPRK are friendly socialist neighbors who stand by each other and share a common future.No matter how times change or how the international landscape evolves, the traditional friendship between China and the DPRK remains unbreakable and enduring, constantly demonstrating vigorous vitality, Xi said.Noting that top-level strategic guidance is the greatest strength of China-DPRK relations, Xi said that in recent years, he and Kim have held six meetings, maintaining close strategic communication and jointly drawing up a blueprint for the development of China-DPRK relations.Xi also said that a shared socialist ideal is a defining feature of China-DPRK relations, and that the traditional friendship between the two countries, rooted in a shared future, forms the solid foundation of bilateral ties."High-level strategic coordination gives China-DPRK relations their contemporary significance," Xi said. "Promoting long-term peace and stability in the region, as well as world peace and stability, is a common pursuit of the two parties, the two countries and their peoples."The two sides firmly support each other in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests, and work together to uphold regional peace and tranquility, international fairness and justice, and the postwar international order, Xi said.Noting that maintaining, consolidating and developing China-DPRK relations has always been an unwavering policy of the CPC and the Chinese government, Xi said that China stands ready to work with the DPRK to steer bilateral relations from a strategic perspective, keep China-DPRK relations abreast of the times and achieve greater development of the relationship.The two sides should deepen strategic communication and firmly steer China-DPRK relations in the right direction, Xi said, calling for upholding the fine tradition of high-level exchanges between the two parties and the two countries, and maintaining close contacts like relatives.The two sides should take the 65th anniversary of the China-DPRK Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance as an opportunity, strengthen exchanges at all levels and across party, government and military institutions, implement the important consensus reached by the two sides, and add fresh impetus to the development of bilateral relations.Xi said the two countries should strengthen communication and mutual learning to jointly promote the steady development of the two countries' socialist cause.China and the DPRK should support each other in pursuing socialist paths suited to their own national conditions, firmly safeguard the political security of both nations, continue to expand exchanges and cooperation between the two parties, and deepen exchanges of experience and mutual learning on party and state governance, Xi said.The two countries should expand practical cooperation and continuously enhance the well-being and friendship of the two peoples, Xi said, adding that the two sides should enhance the alignment of development strategies, tap the potential for cooperation in various fields, share opportunities and promote development together, in order to better benefit the two peoples.Xi also called for close multilateral coordination and firmly safeguarding international fairness and justice.The two sides should strengthen strategic communication and coordination, and jointly uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order based on international law, Xi said, adding that the two sides should oppose hegemonism and power politics, and reject any scheme or action aimed at reviving militarism and undermining regional security and stability.The two countries should jointly promote an equal and orderly multipolarization of the world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, implement the four major global initiatives put forward by China, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, he added.sovereignty /ˈsɒvrənti/主权tranquility /træŋˈkwɪləti/安宁unwavering /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ/坚定不移的alignment /əˈlaɪnmənt/对接hegemonism /hɪˈdʒemənɪzəm/霸权主义multipolarization /ˌmʌltiˌpəʊləraɪˈzeɪʃən/多极化inclusive /ɪnˈkluːsɪv/包容的initiative /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/倡议community with a shared future for humanity /kəˈmjuːnəti wɪð ə ʃeəd ˈfjuːtʃə fə hjuːˈmænəti/人类命运共同体
Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, said on Monday he looks forward to meeting with Kim Jong-un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), to discuss the traditional friendship between the two countries, and exchange views on the overall development of bilateral relations.Xi made the remarks in a signed article published on Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the DPRK, ahead of his state visit to the country slated for Monday and Tuesday, his first in seven years.Xi said that China and the DPRK are friendly socialist neighbors who stand by each other and share a common future.No matter how times change or how the international landscape evolves, the traditional friendship between China and the DPRK remains unbreakable and enduring, constantly demonstrating vigorous vitality, Xi said.Noting that top-level strategic guidance is the greatest strength of China-DPRK relations, Xi said in recent years, he and Kim have held six meetings, maintaining close strategic communication and jointly drawing up a blueprint for the development of China-DPRK relations.Xi also said that a shared socialist ideal is a defining feature of China-DPRK relations, and that the traditional friendship between the two countries, rooted in a shared future, forms the solid foundation of bilateral ties."High-level strategic coordination gives China-DPRK relations their contemporary significance," Xi said. "Promoting long-term peace and stability in the region, as well as world peace and stability, is a common pursuit of the two parties, the two countries and their peoples."The two sides firmly support each other in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests, and work together to uphold regional peace and tranquility, international fairness and justice, and the postwar international order, Xi said.
Holly Fretwell introduces the wildfire crisis, noting that 80 million federal acres require urgent restoration. She argues that historical policies like the 10 a.m. suppression rule and reduced timber harvesting have created dense, flammable forests. Consequently, the Forest Service has transitioned into a "fire company," prioritizing firefighting over active silviculture. (1)1915 WILDFIRE AUSTRALIA
Tyler Anbinder details the origins of the Great Potato Famine, noting that the destructive fungus actually originated in North America and thrived in Ireland's cool, damp climate. By 1846, 90% of the potato crop—the primary food source for half the population—was destroyed. The hardest-hit regions were in the west, where poverty was most extreme. Landowners like Lord Lansdowne facilitated emigration primarily as a financial decision to avoid the taxes required to support indigent tenants. Consequently, the strongest survivors began an arduous journey, often walking to ports before taking cheap ships from Liverpool to New York. (2)1849
Andrew Bayliss explores the aftermath of Sparta's victory, noting that Lysander's immense power and ambition ultimately led to his death during a failed siege. Sparta's dominance eventually collapsed at the Battle of Leuctra due to a dwindling citizen population, reducing the once-mighty superpower to a minor village.1890 VOYAGERS
Richard Epstein examines the 14th Amendment's opening clause, distinguishing the robust rights of citizens from the conditional privileges of aliens. He argues that naturalization was historically a federal prerogative, noting that early statutes, influenced by Thomas Jefferson, included explicit racial exclusions for persons of African or Asian descent.18751
Lorenzo Fiori provides an optimistic update on Italy's economy, noting improved employment rates across various demographics. He highlights a landmark legislative shift toward nuclear energy, with small plants planned by 2034. For travelers, he recommends San Miniato, a strategic, less-crowded Tuscan village famous for its white beans.1880
Jeff Bliss returns to discuss the complexities of the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles, noting that it involves deeply troubled individuals requiring mental health support. He highlights how criminal gangs exploit these populations, turning encampments into convenience stores. Bliss argues that solving this issue requires comprehensive policy changes from the governor, federal government, and healthcare providers.1903 FIESTA LA
Henry Sokolski analyzes China's nuclear capabilities, including missile silos and underground transport systems, while questioning their peer-to-peer ambitions. He also observes economic trends, noting that gas price fluctuations and sparse Costco crowds suggest consumers are becoming increasingly budget-conscious and selective about their spending habits in the current economy.1958
Professor Andrew Bayliss analyzes the Persian Wars, noting that while Thermopylae created the Spartan legend, the naval victory at Salamis was strategically decisive. Following the war, Sparta retreated into isolationism due to internal scandals, allowing Athens to transform its defensive alliance into a powerful, tribute-collecting maritime empire.MINOAN
Another baraita on the impact of blood on - in this case, a gourd of terumah - in terms of making it susceptible to impurity. Rabbi Yehudah HaNasi and Rabbi Hiyya have a debate about that. Of course, if there is blood and shechitah on the gourd throughout the process, that would render the gourd susceptible to impurity. But perhaps not if the process itself were interrupted. Also, Resh Lakish poses a question regarding a dry portion of a grain-offering - if/when would that become susceptible to impurity? Noting that it still would need to come in contact with water (or the other liquids) to achieve that. Note also the distinction between the impurity that comes from a dead body as compared to that from a creepy-crawly.
(11) Titus Techera critiques the evolution of Animal Farm films, noting the newest version depicts Silicon Valley and AI as villains. He argues this shift denatures Orwell's original anti-totalitarian message for modern ideological purposes. The 1954 version remains the most effective educational tool regarding the dangers of tyranny.1916
PREVIEW: Guest Simon Constable discusses the UK Labor Party's leadership. He analyzes the rivalry between Keir Starmer and Andy Burnham, noting Burnham's strong media presence and potential appeal to British voters.
Have you ever known something was broken in a relationship but had no idea how to say what you actually needed to fix it? That's where so many of us get stuck. This week, Candace and communication coach Jason VanRuler move from understanding the PATHS types to putting them to work, starting with a listener question about a family conflict that has been festering for twenty years. Jason reframes the whole thing: the problem is rarely that people won't talk. It's that they don't know what they need in order to move forward. The conversation moves through how each communication type engages with conflict, from the Peacemaker who needs reassurance that the relationship will survive the hard conversation, to the Advocate who can throw the whole relationship away for the win, to the Thinker who arrives with a trolley of evidence, to the Harbor who creates so much space for feelings that the conflict never actually gets resolved, to the Spark who surprises everyone when the intensity finally breaks. Jason also addresses what to do when the other person simply is not willing, and how to tell the difference between what we want and what we actually need. Two more listener questions round out the episode: a mom whose first-grade son keeps getting excluded, and a teenage girl named Blythe navigating anxiety. Jason's answer to both comes back to the same thing. Confidence rooted in identity. When we know who we are and what we stand for, rejection still hurts, but it doesn't define us. And for the teenage girl spinning in worry? Noting the anxiety and then redirecting that energy somewhere useful turns out to be far more effective than overthinking it. Download the free Healthy Connection Guide at candace.com, where you can also submit questions for future episodes. For Jason's "Communicate to Connect" video guide, go to candacecbure.com/together Life is like a rollercoaster, but it's better when we go through it together! Connect with Candace and Jason Candace on Instagram @candacecbure Follow the Podcast on Instagram @candacecameronburepodcast Follow the Podcast on TikTok @ccbpodcast Jason on IG: https://www.instagram.com/jason.vanruler/ Jason on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/c/Jasonvrcounselor Website: https://www.jasonvr.com/ Sponsors For This Episode PHD myphdweightloss.com and call #864-644-1900 and mention Candace. Crowdhealth Go to JoinCrowdHealth.com and use code CANDACE GCU gcu.edu 316 Financial https://bank316.com/candace-cameron-bure IFCJ ifcj.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Preview for Later Today: Malcolm Hoenlein investigates the mystery surrounding Mojtaba Khamenei's leadership status in Iran. He questions if the IRGC is actually in control, noting that propaganda and symbolism are being used to maintain a national facade.1920 BUSHEHR
(11) David Daoud explains the linkage between Lebanon and Iran, noting that Iran treats a violation of a ceasefire in Lebanon as a violation of its own truce with the U.S. Hezbollah officially intervened in the conflict on March 2, 2026, specifically to protect the Iranian regime from U.S. and Israeli pressure. Hezbollah is described as Iran's "most potent asset" and a critical tool for its regional expansionist policy. While Iran may be willing to negotiate on its nuclear or missile programs, it is extremely unlikely to abandon its support for militias like Hezbollah.1930 TRIPOLI
(1) John Batchelor and Bill Roggio introduce the global landscape of current conflicts, noting that reporting on these issues is often marginalized by major newspapers. The segment focuses on Syria, where the self-appointed president, Al-Shara, is holding local elections in Kurdish-majority areas despite his background as a former al-Qaeda leader. Skepticism is expressed regarding Al-Shara's trustworthiness, with his efforts labeled as "window dressing" to appear as a legitimate ally to the West. Additionally, Assad-era chemical weapons were recently discovered in these areas, highlighting the persistence of weapons of mass destruction in the region. Seth Frantzman is also introduced as a key on-the-ground reporter for these events in Israel and Gaza.1701
(16) Rick Fisher details the military nature of the Chinese space program, noting that the nation's astronaut corps is officially the Astronaut Brigade of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Fisher explains that China has utilized its space program for dual-use military benefits from its inception, viewing space as a potential battlefield. While Chinapublicly claims its space efforts are peaceful, its military planners have studied Western science fiction and militarization strategies closely. The segment warns that the U.S. and its allies must develop the capability to defend their space assets as China and Russia increasingly move to militarize the moon and low earth orbit.1941
(1) Bob Zimmerman introduces the Apollo 8 crew—Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and Bill Anders—noting their deep military backgrounds and commitment to American ideals. Borman is described as an intensely honest leader driven by duty, while Lovell is characterized as a "space cadet" eager for exploration. Zimmerman highlights the often-overlooked role of the astronauts' wives, such as Susan Borman and Valerie Anders, who managed households and intense media pressure while accepting the 50/50 survival odds of the mission. The guest also discusses the decision to use the Saturn 5rocket despite its previous mechanical vibration issues.(1) Bob Zimmerman introduces the Apollo 8 crew—Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and Bill Anders—noting their deep military backgrounds and commitment to American ideals. Borman is described as an intensely honest leader driven by duty, while Lovell is characterized as a "space cadet" eager for exploration. Zimmerman highlights the often-overlooked role of the astronauts' wives, such as Susan Borman and Valerie Anders, who managed households and intense media pressure while accepting the 50/50 survival odds of the mission. The guest also discusses the decision to use the Saturn 5rocket despite its previous mechanical vibration issues.
(3) Bob Zimmerman examines the Soviet Zond program, noting that failures like Zond 4's self-destruction and Zond 6's atmosphere loss prevented the Russians from launching cosmonauts first. This created a vacuum that NASA manager George Low filled by proposing the bold, risky plan to send Apollo 8 to the moon without the lunar module. Despite the lack of a "lifeboat," leadership approved the mission to beat the Soviets. The guest emphasizes that these aggressive decisions were fueled by CIA intelligence suggesting a Russian lunar flight was imminent, forcing NASA to take engineering risks to secure a Cold War victory.1955
Preview for Later Today: John Hardie analyzes the drone war in Ukraine, noting the tactical advantage Starlink and Western AI provide for mid-range strikes. He contrasts Ukrainian logistics targeting with Russia's focus on energy infrastructure and specialized tactical drones.1856 BLACK SEA FLEET
Bazball Blunders and Vandalizing CockatoosGuest Jeremy Zakis critiques England's aggressive "Bazball" cricket strategy, noting Brendan McCullum's new five-point plan focused on professionalism and pressure management for the upcoming Ashes. Zakis also updates on his battle with destructive cockatoos, which have returned to his property now that minor birds have fled.1899
(16) Lorenzo Fiori reports on a record-breaking Italian heat wave and the poor market reception of Ferrari's new electric vehicle, while noting that affordable Chinese EVs are rapidly becoming the top-selling cars in Italy.1900 VENICE
(5) Jim McTague reports on Lancaster County's economy, noting record-breaking gasoline sales at Costco despite rainy weather, the rise of retirement-driven healthcare, and local "Luddite" opposition to a proposed data center in Columbia.KEYSTONE
(4) Professor Richard Epstein describes the Trump administration's $1.776 billion "slush fund" as a fraudulent private agreement, noting that despite its likely illegality, legal standing requirements make it difficult for anyone to successfully challenge.1890
(1) Anatol Lieven discusses Moscow's escalation and the future of Ukraine negotiations, noting that Russia has threatened targeted strikes on Ukrainian headquarters in Kyiv. High casualty rates and stalled front lines contribute to a mood of frustration in Moscow.18991
(13) Simon Constable and Jim McTague examine global commodities and the economic impact of war, noting that high energy prices, including $8 diesel in France, are straining consumer budgets. While some commodity prices are stabilizing, the ongoing conflict in Iran continues to drive global inflation.1903 TEHRAN
(12) Jeff McCausland discusses Russian casualties and NATO's growing nuclear anxiety, noting that Russia has reportedly suffered 500,000 deaths in Ukraine, creating severe manpower shortages. Consequently, European allies like France are considering moving nuclear assets eastward due to waning confidence in U.S. support.1903 BRUSSELS
(3) Josh Rogin discusses the Trump-Xi summit, noting that the President's visit to Beijing featured major CEOs but yielded no new trade agreements. Both nations remain locked in a trade war with mismatched expectations regarding economic cooperation.1900
General Blaine Holt discusses Russian hypersonic threats and the shift to asymmetric drone warfare, noting Russia's threats of using weapons of mass destruction against Kyiv to warn European leaders against further intervention. Meanwhile, low-cost drone technology is proving to be an asymmetric force that renders expensive, multi-million dollar military systems obsolete. (6)1875-85 BRITISH IRONCLAD GLATTON
Craig Unger discusses U.S. unreliability and the future of the NATO alliance, noting that under Trump, the United States is seen as an unreliable partner by allies like Finland, who fear he will not honor Article 5. This lack of reliability forces European nations to consider whether they can emerge as a self-sufficient military power. (14)1936
Michael Bernstam discusses the impact of Ukrainian drone strikes on the Russian oil market, noting that strikes on refineries and ports have forced Russia to export more crude oil at discounted prices instead of high-value refined products. Simultaneously, U.S. oil production has hit record levels, significantly influencing global market prices. (9)1905 BAKU
Grant Newsham critiques the lack of clear war aims in the Iran conflict, noting that critical infrastructure remains largely untouched. He warns this perceived weakness sends a dangerous message to adversaries in Beijing and Moscow. (16)1919
Gregory Copley previews the 2027 Nigerian presidential election, noting President Tinubu's likely run despite his health concerns. He contrasts Nigeria's relative calm with the revolutionary anarchy currently gripping the neighboring states in the Sahel. (10)1919
Gregory Copley discusses the tactical nature of Iran negotiations, noting continued US defensive strikes in the region. He identifies Turkey's nuclear ambitions and its ICBM program as an emerging factor for future regional stability. (9)1919
Liz Peek discusses the stabilizing energy markets despite ongoing Middle Eastern tensions, noting that global oil production remains resilient. She also explores Kevin Warsh's potential role as a reformer at the Federal Reserve. (1)1919 VERSAILLES TREATY
(1/3) The Great Game. Gaius and Germanicus debate in their favorite wine bar by the Thames, in Londinium, Spring 92 AD. Germanicus compares 19th-century British strategy to modern American policy, noting both pursued a 78-year containment of Russia. Britain's efforts from 1830 to 1908 involved "wasteful wars" in places like Afghanistan and the Crimea to block Russian expansion in Eurasia. This strategy eventually backfired; by weakening Russia and later alienating Japan, Britain suffered a massive military humiliation at Singapore in 1942, leading to the empire's collapse. The United States has followed a near-identical timeline since 1947, which Germanicus argues has driven Russia and China into a close alliance while making an enemy of Iran. He concludes that the U.S. is currently at a 1930s-style "inflection point," having lost its global reputation and "mojo." Survival now requires acknowledging this reality rather than clinging to a "godlike" view of military power. (1/3)1904
Jason Bedrick argues that the Bible is the essential foundation for the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence. He laments the decline in biblical literacy, noting it creates a profound gap in cultural understanding. (7/16)COUR D'ALENE, ID
Steve Yates critiques the personal diplomacy approach at the Beijing summit, noting an asymmetric information environment. He highlights the lack of a joint statement and ongoing tensions regarding Taiwan's sovereignty and defense. (3/16)1910 ID