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On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, RCI Editor J. Peder Zane and RCI Senior Reporter James Varney speak with the Substacker who writes under the pseudonym “Yuri Bezmenov” (he'll tell us why) about his reporting on the network of awards, fellowship, teaching gigs and other lucrative and prestigious incentives that reward people who espouse progressive ideas. On the news round-up, Zane and Varney discuss a National Review article that details Iran's efforts to take the war to other countries, a ProPublica article about how General Dynamics' failed effort to make artillery shells with robots cost American taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars and an article in the Atlantic in which an African-American professor details how his experience with dangerous excesses of wokism pushed him to leave academia. Articles Discussed in This Podcast:| Yuri Bezmenov Substack: Fauci's Georgetown Gig and Other Progressive Rewards National Review: Iran Is Rewiring Its Proxy Network ProPublica: Taxes Funded $533M Artillery Plant That Made Nothing Atlantic: Why This Black Professor Quit the Tenure Track Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
Promo, Spy Lounge, Anthony Jeselnik, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Liberal Fear, Dr Berg, motivation, meditation, Professor Feynman, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Deon Cole, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Liberal Fear, Fauci, faith, WNBA, Bill Maher, President Trump, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Rodney Dangerfield, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Liberal Fear, Noir Cat Club, Ego Death In the Desert, Surf Guitar, Barrel House Fever, Vatican Techno, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, RCI Editor J. Peder Zane and RCI Senior Reporter James Varney speak with true crime reporter extraordinaire Valerie Bauerlein of the Wall Street Journal about her recent coverage of the Nancy Guthrie abduction, her book on the Alex Murdaugh murder case and her podcast on another South Carolina homicide, “Camp Swamp Road.” On the news round-up, Zane and Varney discuss the Washington Post's investigation into fraud and abuse at the Veterans Administration and two articles – one from the New York Times on China, the other from the Washington Post on the U.S. – that look at the continuing rise of the surveillance state. Articles Discussed in This Podcast: Valerie Bauerlein/WSJ: How Savannah Guthrie Lost Her Mom and Cops Lost the Case Valerie Bauerlein/WSJ: Camp Swamp Road Podcast: Listen to the Full Season - WSJ Valerie Bauerlein: The Devil at His Elbow: Alex Murdaugh and the Fall of a Southern Dynasty Washington Post: How Predatory Trade Schools Cheat Veterans Washington Post: How Some Veterans Exploit $193 Billion VA Program New York Times: How China Keeps Tabs on Foreigners Washington Post: Rogue Officers Used Camera Network for Stalking Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
Promo, Spy Lounge, Dave Chapelle, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Liberal Fear, Swing Jazz, Tijuana Taxi, Organ Groove, Plaza Monumental, Mexicali Desert Chill, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Richard Pryor, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Liberal Fear, Machiavelli, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Cocktail Confidential, Dave Chapelle, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Evil liberal, Freedom of Speech, Professor Feynman, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Mid-century Daydreams, Chris Rock, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Evil liberal, Dr Berg, meditation, TonyX2, President Trump, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, RCI Editor J. Peder Zane and RCI Senior Reporter James Varney speak with Aaron Shuster about his Tablet article “Entryism Comes to America,” which argues that the U.S. should follow France's lead and have a serious inquiry into and discussion of what the rise of Islamism means for the nation's prevailing culture and politics. On the news round-up, Zane and Varney discuss a trio of articles – two from the New York Times, one from Politico – reporting that President Trump appears to be rewarding states that voted for him and punishing those that did not as his administration dispenses disaster relief and other monies approved by Congress. While praising the legacy media for shining a light on the Trump administration, Zane and Varney also discuss how a New York Times article on Dr. Anthony Fauci's recent testimony before Congress and a Washington Post article about how Joe Biden's post-presidential career has been hobbled by health issues (including Stage 4 prostate cancer) reveal the ways legacy media outlets often protect people and parties they support. 00:00 Introduction to Entryism and Political Context 11:23 The Role of Media in Political Reporting 12:20 Understanding Entryism: A Deep Dive 22:50 Cultural Integration vs. Subjugation 30:44 The Future of American Values and Politics 31:43 The Core Values of Civilization 34:57 Immigration and National Identity 36:05 The Influence of Academia on Culture 39:16 The Alliance of Radical Left and Islamic Thought 41:11 Challenges of Immigration in Europe 43:00 Cultural Resistance and the Fight for Identity 45:29 The Need for a Cultural Revival 47:48 Historical Context of Immigration and Assimilation 51:49 Shared Values and Cultural Integration 54:21 Potential Solutions for Immigration Issues Books & Articles Discussed in This Podcast: Aaron Shuster/Tablet: Entryism Comes to America New York Times: Trump Sitting on Billions Approved for Transit Politico: Trump Overrode Agencies To Deny Dem Disaster Requests New York Times: Trump Administration Admits Canceling Grants to States That Did Not Vote for Him New York Times: Fauci's Diary Reflections on COVID's Origins and Fame Washington Post: Illness Has Transformed Biden's Post-Presidential Life Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
Promo, Bongo Grooves, Erica Rhodes, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Evil liberal, American Thinker, Cocktail Jazz, Mambo Explosivo, Cinematic Acid Groove, The Gilligan Signal, Hammond Goes Surf, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Mid-century Modern, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Evil liberal, MCM, New York Cafe, Alley Cats Groove, Chill Out, Swing Jazz, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Erica Rhodes, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Evil liberal, Dr Berg, Machiavelli, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Atomic Jazz Lounge, Michael Blackson, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Evil liberal, Faith As It Is, Professor Feynman, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Bongo Fever Exotica, Erica Rhodes, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Evil liberal, Democrat Narrative, Musk, meditation, Dr Berg, Faith As It Is, President Trump, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Bill Burr, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Evil liberal, Catherine Club Confidential, Psychedelic Tijuana, Dinner at Ipanema, Cantina Tan Tan, Cocktail Jazz, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, RCI Senior Reporter James Varney speaks with author James Rasenberger about his new work of history, “A Perfect Coincidence: The Extraordinary Friendship and Astonishing Deaths of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson.” On the news round-up, J. Peder Zane joins Varney to discuss a reported editorial from the Wall Street Journal and a news article from the New York Times that detail how legislation that aimed to protect patients from surprise medical bills has become a cash cow for health care providers. They also use John Murawski's 2020 article about the Mott & Bailey switcheroo to discuss a Free Press article reporting on the differences between the warm and fuzzy descriptions of the Democratic Socialists of America advanced by the party's adherents and many arms of the legacy media and the aggressive goals the DSA's platform and position papers say it want to achieve. Books & Articles Discussed in This Podcast: · Jim Rasenberger Book Excerpt: A Perfect Coincidence · Wall Street Journal: The ‘Surprise Billing' Racket · New York Times: Trump Administration Says Surprise Billing Law Is Being ‘Gamed' by Doctors · New York Times: $22,000 Per Hour: Assistants Use a Legislative Loophole to Outearn Surgeons · Free Press: I Was in the DSA. Here's What They Really Believe. · RCI: The 'Motte & Bailey': Political Jousting's Deceptive New Medieval Weapon | Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
Promo, Bongo Grooves, Anjelah Johnson, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Evil liberal, Transmission 105, Golden Sunset, Acid Jazz, Swing Drum Fire, New York Cafe, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Bill Burr, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Evil liberal, Alice Weidel, motivation, meditation, Faith As it is, psychopathy, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Andy Huggins, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Evil liberal, Candice, wind turbines, Professor Feynman, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Bill Burr, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, ABC, Tony, meditation, Tony, King Millennial, President Trump, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Gary Delaney, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Dangerous Conservative, The New York Sound, Pirate Radio Cumbia, Bollywood Bongo Funk, Tijuana Taxi, Cosmic Groove, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Pete Lee, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Dangerous Conservative, Psychedelic Moon Funk, Slap Bass Groove, Atomic Lounge, Spaceship Funk, Lunar Lounge, USC, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Nate Bargatze, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Dangerous Conservative, AOC, motivation, meditation, Machiavelli, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Keith Alby, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Dangerous Conservative, Dr Berg, Maria Bartiromo, meditation, Professor Feynman, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Wherein Ken drops his microphone down a well. Varney the Vampire is a genuine penny dreadful, read aloud one chapter per week just like the original Victorian audience would do for the authentic 1840s coffeehouse experience. To instantly unlock over a hundred more chapters (literally), check out our Patreon.
Promo, Lunar Lounge, Anthony Jeselnik, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Dangerous Conservative, Dr Berg, motivation, meditation, Ukraine, President Trump, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Hollywood Improv, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Dangerous Conservative, Mambo Explosivo, Jazz Funk, Cinematic Acid Groove, Latin Jazz, Coffee and Rain, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, J. Peder Zane and James Varney speak with Tablet writer and RCI contributor Lee Smith about conservative media in the Trump era with a special focus on X. On the news round-up, Zane and Varney discuss how a ProPublica investigation reporting on the Trump administration's aggressive immigration efforts, which includes a remake of the courts, is targeting a once protected class for deportation: unaccompanied minors who crossed the border. They also looks at a new report from the White House that assails the leadership of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History for “explicitly adopt[ing] an ideological framework that no longer treats the American story as a shared national inheritance to be taught or celebrated, but as a political instrument to divide, dispirit, and discourage our citizens.” 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Current Events 02:01 Immigration and Deportation Policies 07:01 American History and Political Narratives 13:03 The State of Conservative Media 20:13 Challenges in Modern Journalism 30:03 The Role of Social Media in News Consumption 32:44 Navigating Information Overload 36:27 Censorship and Free Speech Dynamics 40:03 The Role of Propaganda in Media 44:21 The Responsibility of Media Platforms 48:31 Distinguishing Free Speech from Press Freedom 50:10 Acknowledging the Current Media Landscape 55:24 The Importance of Accountability in Media Books & Articles Discussed in This Podcast: Lee Smith: Is the EU's Spat with Elon Musk Really About Free Speech? https://www.tabletmag.com/sections/news/articles/eu-spat-elon-musk-free-speech Lee Smith: The Man Setting Fire to the GOP ProPublica: Trump Surges Deportation of Minors White House: Saving America's Story https://www.whitehouse.gov/releases/2026/07/saving-americas-story/ New York Times: Inside Trump's Ideological Fight With the Smithsonian https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/06/us/politics/trump-smithsonian-ideological-fight.html Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
Promo, Spy Lounge, Brad Upton, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Dangerous Conservative, Smooth Jazz and Soul, Psychedelic Jazz Funk, Salsa Jazz Cafe, Elevator music, Hypnotic Tiki Lounge, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Mic Jagster, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Bad Democrat, Iran War, motivation, meditation, Nigel Farage, class action, Machiavelli, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Space Lounge, Rodney Dangerfield, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Bad Democrat, Dr Berg, motivation, meditation, Professor Feynman, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Tom Cotter, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Bad Democrat, political psychology, gay marriage, entitlement, analysis, President Trump, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Tom Cotter, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Vintage Evening Jazz, Happy Jazz, Rainy Night Jazz, Atomic Lounge, Latin Jazz, Mexican Estate Jazz, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Kevin Nealon, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Dangerous Conservative, Maria Bartiromo, motivation, meditation, Law and Order, Ukraine, USC, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Promo, Spy Lounge, Tom Cotter, introduction, Serenity Prayer, patriotic song, Varney and Company, Dangerous Conservative, Jerry Wayne, motivation, meditation, Machiavelli, conclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-true-conservative--2039343/support.
Dems Lurching Left and Team USA with a big win as we head into the 250th birthday weekend [00:18:38] Michael Makovsky [00:36:10] Melissa Derosa [00:55:10] Jennifer Sey [01:05:10] Varney simulcast [01:23:15] Jane Hampton Cook [01:30:15] Yemisi Egbewole Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wherein Varney's dastardly co-conspirator is revealed! Varney the Vampire is a genuine penny dreadful, read aloud one chapter per week just like the original Victorian audience would do for the authentic 1840s coffeehouse experience. To instantly unlock over a hundred more chapters (literally), check out our Patreon.
On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, J. Peder Zane and James Varney speak with Dr. Kendall Conger who lost his job after challenging a 2021 statement issued by his employer – Duke Health – declaring racism a “public health crisis.” On the news round-up, Zane and Varney discuss the challenges of reporting on the Iran war – and peace deal – when the government seems loath to share details; the Reform Party's withering report on the Rape Gang controversy in the UK; and the popular support for Luigi Mangione, who is accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City in 2024. 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Current Events 05:04 The Grooming Gangs Report and Its Implications 10:02 Media Bias and the Impact on Society 15:11 Dr. Kendall Conger's Experience with DEI at Duke Health 24:12 The Impact of George Floyd's Death on Institutional Policies 30:04 The Debate Over Racism as a Public Health Crisis 36:02 Personal Experiences and Consequences of Speaking Out 39:58 The Shift in Institutional Values at Duke University Articles Discussed in This Podcast: Kendall Conger/RCI: I Challenged Duke's DEI Dogma – and Paid With My Job Axios: U.S.-Iran deal: Read the full text Reform Party: UK: The Rape Gang Inquiry NPR: Public Support Growing for Accused Killer Luigi Mangione Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, J. Peder Zane and James Varney speak with Robert P. George, McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence and director of the James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions at Princeton University, about the national civics education he has spearheaded and how to have conversations across the political divide. On the news round-up, Zane and Varney discuss a range of articles responding to the violence that erupted in England and Belfast following racially charged incidents. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdote 01:30 Current Events and Political Climate 03:52 Racial Inequality and Public Response 06:16 Media Framing and Public Perception 09:44 Civics Education and Its Importance 13:01 Interview with Robert George on Civics Education 20:32 The Shift in Academic Focus 24:25 Conservative Perspectives in Academia 31:17 The Pursuit of Truth and Intellectual Humility 32:04 The Role of Academic Freedom in Education 33:25 Bridging the Gap: Intellectual Honesty in Discourse 37:34 Navigating the Age of Feeling and Humility 48:44 The Machinery of Dispute Resolution in Democracy 56:35 Hope vs. Optimism: The Future of American Democracy Articles Discussed in This Podcast: Robert P. George Official Websitehttps://robertpgeorge.com/ Robert P. George X Accounthttps://x.com/McCormickProf Video: Robert P. George in Conversation with Cornel Westhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwBxVjkOeV0 New York Times: In the U.K., a Violent Cycle: Hateful Attacks, Right-Wing Agitation and Riots https://www.nytimes.com/2026/06/11/world/europe/northern-ireland-stabbing-immigration.html Atlantic: How Britain Became as Poor as Mississippi https://archive.is/6q9Gp Telegraph: Erect Sea Barrier Off Belgium To Halt Migrant ‘Taxi Boats,'https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/belgians-propose-sea-barrier-halt-151307951.html Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
Wherein Chillingworth is a miserable pile of secrets. Varney the Vampire is a genuine penny dreadful, read aloud one chapter per week just like the original Victorian audience would do for the authentic 1840s coffeehouse experience. To instantly unlock over a hundred more chapters (literally), check out our Patreon.
On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, J. Peder Zane and James Varney speak with Joel Kotkin about his recent article for RCI exploring how and why fascism has become a buzzword of American politics. On the news round-up, Zane and Varney use a City Journal piece suggesting why fraud in Medicaid and Medicare seems an unsolvable problem to discuss a Wall Street Journal article detailing how autism therapy has become a hotbed of billing abuse and a Daily Caller story on rampant fraud in Obamacare. They also discuss John R. Lott Jr.'s recent RCI article on data showing that violent crime is declining even as more Americans – especially women, blacks and Hispanics – are carrying firearms and an article in the Free Press reporting on policies that have helped significantly lower the murder rate in Baltimore. 00:00 Introduction and News Roundup 07:04 Fraud in Government Spending 12:07 Rising Gun Ownership and Crime Rates 18:27 Understanding Fascism: A Historical Perspective with Joel Kotkin 25:53 The Role of Religion in Fascism 26:22 The Fascism Debate: Trump and Historical Context 30:04 Nationalism and Patriotism: A Shift in Perception 32:44 Weaponization of Language in Political Discourse 36:24 Democratic Socialism: Ideals vs. Reality 41:19 The Ascendancy of the Left in the Democratic Party 48:53 Anti-Semitism and Political Extremism: A Dual Concern Articles Discussed in This Podcast: Joel Kotkin/RCI: The Strange Afterlife of Fascism | RealClearInvestigations City Journal: Why Medicare and Medicaid Fraud Won't Go Away Wall Street Journal: Autism Therapy Hotbed of Billing Abuse Daily Caller: Obamacare Enrollment Fraud May Cost Taxpayers Billions In 2026 RCI: Gun Safety: Violent Crime Drops as More Americans Pack Heat Free Press: Why Did the Murders Stop in Baltimore? Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, RCI Editor J. Peder Zane and RCI Senior Reporter James Varney speak with author Andrew G. Bostom about the rise of Shariah law in the U.S. and the EU and challenges it poses to those western laws, customs and society. On the news round-up, Zane and Varney use a Tablet article saying the U.S. has few good options in Iran to discuss some lessons we have learned so far from the ongoing conflict. They also discuss what sky-high tickets prices to see the New York Knicks play in the NBA finals say about America's wealth gap and what two stories about Sweden – one in Europe Today, the other in the Wall Street Journal – tell us about mass immigration and social cohesion. 00:00 Introduction 04:52 Trump Cutting Bait in Iran?08:00 NBA Championships and the High Cost of Tickets 09:43 WSJ World's Most Surprising Capitalist Makeover 11:00 Sharia Law and Its Implications 15:53 Interview with Andrew Bostom on Islam and Sharia 32:44 Global Perspectives on Sharia Law 39:03 Theological Roots of Anti-Semitism in Islam 51:50 Islamic Theology and Historical Context 54:40 Challenges of Discussing Islamic Anti-Semitism 01:03:11 The Future of Pluralism and Freedom Books & Articles Discussed in This Podcast: Paul; Sperry/RCI: GOP Battles Sharia: Is Islamic Law a Threat or Dog Whistle? Paul Sperry/RCI: Sharia's Growing Influence on U.S. Finance Andrew G. Bostom: The Legacy of Jihad Andrew G. Bostom: The Legacy of Islamic Antisemitism Andrew G. Bostom: A Modern Qur'anic Kampf Against the Jews Tablet: Trump Tries to Cut Bait in Iran New York Times: Knicks Fans Are Stunned by Four-Figure Ticket Prices Europe Today: Sweden Approves Law Banning Cousin Marriages and Close Relative Unions Wall Street Journal: The World's Most Surprising Capitalist Makeover Is Under Way in Sweden Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, RCI Editor J. Peder Zane and RCI Senior Reporter James Varney speak with Patrick Steel, the former CEO of Politico who is now a Senior Advisor to Antenna Group, about the changing landscape of the media business. On the news round-up, Zane and Varney discuss articles published by Reuters and the Washington Post that detail Iran's confounding stranglehold on the Strait of Hormuz as well as a piece in the Atlantic that raises questions about the US government's official narrative regarding the deadly collision of two American refueling planes over Iraq. They also examine how two articles – the National Review's analysis of the explosion in autism diagnoses and the City Journal's report on the transplants driving Los Angeles' homeless problems – illustrate how the wrong incentives can exacerbate social problems and social spending. 00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Podcast 08:21 Iran's Influence on International Shipping 16:07 The Evolving Media Landscape 31:14 The Future of Legacy Media 31:55 The Evolution of Regional Journalism 34:00 The Impact of Billionaire Backers on Media 37:31 The Tension Between Audience and Ownership 42:35 The Rise of Authenticity in Journalism 49:23 Transparency and Trust in Modern Media 56:45 Investing in the Future of Journalism Articles Discussed in This Podcast: Patrick Steel Bio: Patrick Steel - NYU Stern Reuters: Iran Consolidating Control of Strait of Hormuz Washington Post: Ship's Crew Risked the Strait, Met Hail of Bullets Atlantic: What the Pentagon Didn't Say About a Deadly Crash National Review: Autism Overdiagnosis Is a National Scandal City Journal: LA a Magnet for Nation's Homeless Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
London's Dracula Connections: Victorian Vampires, Penny Dreadfuls & the Lyceum Theatre (World Dracula Day Special)On World Dracula Day (26 May), London History Podcast host Hazel Baker speaks with Lambeth tour guide and Gothic novelist David Turnbull about how a century of Gothic writing and London locations shaped Bram Stoker's Dracula. They trace early vampire traits through Coleridge's Christabel, Byron's circle and the Villa Diodati summer, Polidori's The Vampyre, and the influence of penny dreadfuls like Varney the Vampire and Lloyd's publications, before moving to Fleet Street magazines and Sheridan Le Fanu's Carmilla. The conversation highlights Stoker's Lyceum Theatre work under Henry Irving, the Beefsteak Room's literary influences (including Burton and Vambéry), Stoker's research at the British Museum and London Library, and Dracula's London settings from Piccadilly and King's Cross to Hampstead. They discuss Dracula's slow initial success, rivalry with The Beetle, and its 20th-century rise via Hamilton Deane and Bela Lugosi, ending with Turnbull's Dracula-influenced novel The Hurdy Gurdy Man and related London tours.00:00 Introduction05:39 The Romantic Poets & Vampire Origins17:17 Penny Dreadfuls & Fleet Street31:57 Dracula's London Locations36:19 Dracula's Rise to FameSee Show Notes
Trump pausing Iran strikes….for now [00:00:00] Karl Rove [00:36:50] Theresa Payton [00:55:10] Alex Martin [01:10:26] Varney simulcast [01:13:37] Victor Davis Hanson [01:30:15] Lamar Alexander Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, RCI Editor J. Peder Zane and RCI Senior Reporter James Varney speak with Leighton Woodhouse about his RCI article on the surprising partnership between left-leaning activists and MAGA influencers to oppose a farm that breeds beagles for scientific experiments. The New York Times is the focus on this week's news roundup. Zane and Varney discuss a Times article reporting that the Trump administration has vastly exaggerated the war's impact on Iran's military; a controversial piece by Times columnist Nicholas Kristof claiming Israeli soldiers, security forces and their dogs raped Palestinian men and women, and a look at the multiple articles the Times has run on Trump administration's $13 million no-bid contract to fix the Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C. even as the paper has paid little attention to the massive government fraud scandals unfolding across the country. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 14:29 Animal Testing and Ridgeland Farms 20:54 Activism and the Beagle Rescue Efforts 30:35 Bipartisan Support for Animal Rights 35:50 Journalistic Integrity in Activism Reporting Articles Discussed in This Podcast: Leighton Woodhouse/RCI: How Opposition to Animal Testing Is Bridging the Political Dividehttps://www.realclearinvestigations.com/articles/2026/05/12/how_opposition_to_animal_testing_is_bridging_the_political_divide_1182121.html New York Times: U.S. Intelligence Shows Iran Retains Strong Missile Capabilities https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/12/us/politics/iran-missiles-us-intelligence.html?emc=edit_na_20260512 Nicholas Kristof/NYT: Opinion | The Silence That Meets the Rape of Palestinians https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/11/opinion/israel-palestinians-sexual-violence.html New York Times: Trump Says He's Renovating ‘Filthy' Reflecting Pool on the National Mall https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/23/us/politics/trump-reflecting-pool-renovation.html?searchResultPosition=5 New York Times: Trump Gave Out a No-Bid Contract to Turn D.C.'s Reflecting Pool Bluehttps://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/08/us/politics/reflecting-pool-trump-contract.html?searchResultPosition=1 New York Times: See How Trump Is Renovating the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Poolhttps://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/12/us/politics/trump-reflecting-pool-renovation.html?searchResultPosition=2 New York Times: Reflecting Pool Repairs Appear Uneven and Behind Schedule, Officials Sayhttps://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/12/us/politics/lincoln-memorial-pool-repairs.html?searchResultPosition=3 New York Times: Reflecting Pool Repairs to Cost $13.1 Million. Trump Had Promised $1.8 Million. https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/11/us/politics/reflecting-pool-paint-contract-trump.html?searchResultPosition=4 Daily Wire: Ohio's Massive Medicaid Fraud Loophole https://www.dailywire.com/news/ohio-says-safeguards-exist-to-stop-medicaid-fraud-but-admits-massive-loophole?row=0 Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
And I said, "What about... breakfast at Varney's?" Varney the Vampire is a genuine penny dreadful, read aloud one chapter per week just like the original Victorian audience would do for the authentic 1840s coffeehouse experience. To instantly unlock over a hundred more chapters (literally), check out our Patreon.
U.S. and Iran in talks – will they go anywhere? [00:00:00] Sen. James Lankford [00:36:47] Khosro Isfahani [00:55:08] Jim Murphy [01:05:47] Varney simulcast [01:13:54] Doron Spielman [01:31:44] Alberto Crane Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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