Where Truth Lives
Help us tell the true story of our time through an independent lens. Narativ uses emerging technologies to empower informed action. Support us at https://www.patreon.com/narativ.
3 days ago
3 days ago
In a chilling exposé, political strategist Rachel Bitecofer and journalist Zev Shalev discuss the harrowing future that may await America if Donald Trump is re-elected in 2024. Drawing from Trump's own words in a recent Time Magazine article, they paint a dystopian picture of a nation on the brink of autocracy.
According to Trump's plans, upon taking office, he intends to:
Purge the government of liberals and replace them with conservative loyalists
Round up and jail journalists critical of his administration
Deploy the National Guard or even the military to deport 11 million undocumented immigrants
Weaponize the Department of Justice to prosecute political opponents
Drastically expand presidential powers under a "unitary executive theory"
Undermine Congressional authority over budgets and legislation
Bitecofer warns that despite Trump's seemingly mild demeanor in his current legal battles, Americans should not be lulled into complacency. She argues that civic illiteracy and a lack of awareness among voters pose the greatest threats to democracy.
To combat this, Bitecofer suggests Democrats adopt a laser-focused messaging strategy, emphasizing the existential threat Republicans pose to personal freedoms. She urges citizens to spread the word about Trump's autocratic intentions, as most Americans remain unaware of the full scope of his plans.
The consequences of a Trump victory, Bitecofer cautions, would be catastrophic not just for America, but for the entire world. With less than 190 days until the election, she issues an urgent call to action: It's time to get real about the danger we face and fight to preserve our democracy before it's too late.
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
This episode of Narativ delves into the unfolding criminal case against Donald Trump, highlighting detailed allegations of his long-standing relationship with David Pecker and the National Enquirer's involvement in silencing stories that could damage Trump’s image and career. It covers the mechanics behind 'catch and kill' tactics used to suppress potentially harmful stories, spanning a 40-year history of scandal manipulation. The episode also touches on the personal toll on individuals targeted by such media manipulations, with insights from Steve Schmidt about overcoming orchestrated public smears. Additionally, the episode critiques the media's role and journalism's ethics in the context of political manipulation. It ends with a commentary on the broader implications of Trump's legal and ethical entanglements for democracy.
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
I had a profound conversation with Steve Schmidt, the founder of “The Warning” and a seasoned veteran of numerous high-profile campaigns. We delve into the intricacies of Donald Trump's hush money trial and its potential impact on the 2024 presidential race.
Our wide-ranging conversation covers Steve's invaluable assessment of Trump's electoral chances, the pivotal role of the MAGA propaganda ecosystem, and the pressing challenges facing Joe Biden. Steve's analysis of who will win in November and the hush money trial is a must-listen. He also shares advice for Joe Biden on making a compelling case for his leadership.
I got to know Steve during the 2008 election, and I deeply respect his political acumen and unwavering, steadfast commitment to democratic principles. He also discusses standing up for our freedoms, drawing inspiration from Pope John Paul II's courageous calls to "be not afraid."
No matter your political persuasion, Steve's trenchant analysis is essential listening for anyone who cares about our country's future. I hope you'll check out the full interview. If you haven’t already done so, please subscribe to Steve’s substack, “The Warning.”
Subscribed
A SPECIAL OFFER EXCLUSIVELY FOR NARATIV VIEWERS AND FOLLOWERS
If you're looking for a way to enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home without the hassle or expense, I highly recommend checking out CookUnity.
As a special offer for Narativ’s viewers and listeners, you can get 50% off your first week by going to cookunity.com/REACH or entering code “REACH” at checkout. With locally sourced ingredients, chef-crafted dishes, and a commitment to sustainability, CookUnity is changing the game regarding meal delivery.
Whether you're a busy professional, a foodie looking to explore new cuisines or just someone who wants to eat well without sacrificing taste or quality, CookUnity has something for you. So why not see how delicious and convenient meal delivery can be?
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Introduction
- Tonight's episode delves into the current turmoil surrounding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
- We explore the internal divisions within his war cabinet, the public's growing dissent, and the Israeli army's retreat amid threats of an offensive.
The Gaza Retreat
- The sudden withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Gaza has raised questions about the shift in the conflict's dynamics.
- Families return to their devastated homes in Gaza, facing the overwhelming task of rebuilding.
The World Central Kitchen Incident
- The killing of 7 aid workers by the IDF has sparked significant controversy and backlash against Netanyahu.
- The IDF's public apology marked a turning point, leading to a humanitarian aid influx and hostage negotiations.
Netanyahu's Controversial Leadership
- Netanyahu's long tenure as Prime Minister and his complex relationship with global powers, including Russia and China, are scrutinized.
- His interactions with the Chabad movement and the prophecy of being the last Prime Minister before the Messiah are discussed.
Guest Appearance
- Rick Petrie, a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and an energy sector expert, joins the conversation to provide insight into the broader implications of the conflict.
Summary
- The episode examines Netanyahu's actions and the delayed military response to the Hamas attack, the government's dysfunction, and the potential shift in global power dynamics if Netanyahu maintains control.
Conclusion
- The stakes are high not only for Israelis and Gazans but for the global order of human rights, emphasizing the need for an end to the conflict.
Support
- Listeners are invited to support the programming by subscribing on Substack or Patreon.
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
In today's episode, we dive deep into the unfolding political scenario of 2024 and dissect its potential consequences for the democracy of the United States. We examine how unfavorable election outcomes could endanger the democracy and transform the United States into a different reality. Despite having exposed the enemies of democracy for years, the outcome of the upcoming elections seems distressingly predictable.
Emerging poll results show Donald Trump leading in four swing states, presenting a potential electoral college lead over Joe Biden. Altogether, there is a growing sense of foreboding that is difficult to avoid. Still, the game isn't over, and the tides may yet turn as public attention increasingly focuses on the election in the coming summer.
We also explore the impending media circus centered around Trump and the trials he faces. Instead of focusing on pressing issues like the potential rise of religious zealots in the public sector, impending bans on abortions and birth control, or the increasing surveillance on LGBTQ communities, the public might become hypnotized by seemingly insignificant events. This hybrid of an election campaign and made-for-TV spectacle is a worrying development for democracy.
Furthermore, we delve into Trump's financial connections to China, claiming that his new social media platform, Truth Social, represents a multi-billion dollar deal with China. We caution listeners to stay alert to the efforts by media and influential figures to distract from the real issues at stake and urge them to discuss the importance of democracy actively.
Despite the distractions, we fervently encourage you to spread the word about democracy and its impending peril. Please share this podcast with your friends and family, particularly those residing in swing states, to alert them to the reality of the war against democracy. Ultimately, we must seize the narrative and keep the focus on the true issues at hand.
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
In this in-depth episode of the Narativ, we take a deep dive into how Vladimir Putin, Russia's dominating president, influences not just his own country but democracies across the globe. Starting with an analysis of Putin's recent, and questionable, win in the Russian presidential election, we light up the variations from democratic norms.
Using the resurgence of Paul Manafort in the United States Republic Party as an example, we discuss the frightening reality of potential foreign influence, thus revealing the unsettling truth about Russia's interference in global politics. We don't spare any details, from sinister (and planned) infiltrations to the unabashed spread of disinformation.
We also assess how Putin is trying, and succeeding, to destabilise democratic institutions worldwide and the harmful repercussions of his unchecked influence. As we traverse this uncertain path, we urge our listeners to stay vigilant and protect democracy.
Join us for this compelling discussion with special guest, Olga Lautmann, a senior fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis. Discover the entwined relationship between the American political environment and Russian intelligence networks. Understand how key figures have approached Russian intelligence for personal gains, and explore the alarming rise in divisive political discourse and disinformation campaigns.
Woven into this gripping narrative is a delightful partnership with Cookunity, bringing your favourite local restaurant flavours right to your home. Stay informed, stay equipped, and avail this unique opportunity to comprehend the complexities and realities of global politics.
In the concluding part of the episode, we mull over geopolitical issues and discuss possible global conflicts and wars. The discussion leads towards the urgent need for citizens to comprehend the gravity of the current scenario and use their voting rights to prevent a slide into authoritarian rule.
Gain a fresh, well-rounded perspective on the global political landscape through this educative and enlightening episode.
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Exploring the GOP's deep-rooted ties to Russia, shedding light on the looming peril to America's democratic system. This episode unpacks the disturbing realities looming post the Super Tuesday. As the 2024 elections loom, a stark reality is painted: a battle between a Russian party and an American party, with Donald Trump as the potential GOP nominee, a figure marred in allegations of criminality and fraud.
Throughout this episode, we unravel how the GOP crisis may morph into a disaster by election time, further jeopardizing American democracy, with an alleged alliance forged with Russia and China aimed to dismantle the American system.
We spotlight the heart of this present crisis, revolving around House Speaker Mike Johnson's continual blocking of crucial military aid to war-torn Ukraine. We disclose astonishing findings from an investigation into Mike Johnson's ties to Putin, revealing a decades-long pattern of supporting Russia's key policies.
Furthermore, we delve into Mike Johnson's legislation, his alleged anti-LGBTQ advocacy, and his inexplicable alignment with Russian social policies. On a broader scale, we expose the evident Russian influence within the GOP. In this precarious scenario, the GOP's Speaker and President appear beholden to Russia, raising serious questions about national security.
With a critical investigation into political ties and troubling legislation, this episode paints a haunting picture of what the future might hold should these unchecked Russian influences play a role in the imminent 2024 elections.
Friday Feb 23, 2024
Friday Feb 23, 2024
Friday Feb 23, 2024
In my latest podcast episode, I had former Congressman Denver Riggleman on to discuss the ongoing threats of Russian interference in the 2024 presidential election. Some key takeaways:
Alexander Smirnov, a Russian intelligence asset, was the main source behind false allegations about Hunter Biden taking bribes. This shows how Russian disinformation can infiltrate partisan investigations.
An FBI whistleblower has claimed confidential informants were used to spread disinformation about the Bidens to the Trump administration. This illustrates problems with the FBI's handling of foreign interference cases.
Speaker Mike Johnson has disturbing connections to Putin's inner circle. His refusal to provide military aid to Ukraine raises questions about whether he is acting in America's interests.
The Hunter Biden laptop story shows patterns of Russian interference across the 2016, 2020, and now 2024 elections that Republicans like Jim Jordan fail to acknowledge.
Polling shows Trump retains an extremely loyal base that is unlikely to fracture before 2024. Issues like abortion rights could potentially swing some Republican women to Biden.
A Trump re-election in 2024 raises concerns about retaliation, political violence, chaos, and damage to democracy. October surprises internationally could also impact the outcome.
I discuss all of these issues and more with Denver Riggleman, who brings expertise from serving on the January 6th Committee. With Russian threats increasing as we approach 2024, it's an important episode to understand the forces that still endanger American democracy. Please have a listen!
Saturday Feb 17, 2024
Saturday Feb 17, 2024
Saturday Feb 17, 2024
This episode of the Narativ podcast focuses on the breaking news that Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny has been murdered, presumably by Vladimir Putin. Navalny's widow, Yuliya Navalnaya, spoke at the Munich Security Conference shortly after his death, calling for Putin and his regime to face justice.
Key Topics Discussed:
Yuliya Navalnaya's emotional speech at the Munich Security Conference, saying Putin should be punished for Navalny's murder
Putin's obsession with interfering in US politics to get Trump elected again in 2024
How the timing of Navalny's murder was meant to send a message to NATO right before the Munich Conference
Putin lying about supporting Biden for president as more disinformation
Analysis of how GOP House Speaker Mike Johnson's actions align with Putin's interests regarding Ukraine aid
Discussion of how the enemies of democracy like Putin seem to be coordinating to weaken American power
A look ahead at how conflict hotspots like Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel could impact the 2024 election
Guest:
Rick Petrie from the Council on Foreign Relations provides expert analysis on geopolitics and Vladimir Putin's motives.
Key Quotes:
"It's further proof that this is a very hard dictatorial regime...They have taken the opportunity to murder someone who is probably the most effective opposition spokesperson and revealer of Putin's nepotism and corruption in a generation."
"Ukraine has been the bellwether for Trump and his fealty towards Putin...And he's still very desperate to deliver on that. And it's very dangerous for us as a country, for NATO as an alliance, and for Western democracy."
Conclusion:
This sobering episode focused on Putin's tyranny domestically and in trying to influence world affairs. The murder of Navalny represents a significant escalation and assault on voices of dissent and democracy advocates in Russia. The discussion highlights why opposing Putin's aggression must be a top priority as America heads into the 2024 election.
Friday Feb 02, 2024
Friday Feb 02, 2024
Friday Feb 02, 2024
Tristan Snell, former Assistant Attorney General for New York State, discusses various legal cases linked to ex-president Donald Trump, primarily concerning Trump's election interference and the possible impacts on the forthcoming election. Eagerly awaited cases may not be decided upon until after Election Day. Hence, the voters could be voting without knowing the truth about Trump. Snell shares his comprehensive analysis of how the justice system's delay strategies and cable news also play roles in this process. He also discusses civil trials optimism and the potential implications of Trump's possible conviction. Furthermore, Snell reflects on the lessons from his book 'Taking Down Trump,' which addresses how to prosecute Trump effectively based on his experiences in the Trump University case.
Friday Jan 26, 2024
Friday Jan 26, 2024
Friday Jan 26, 2024
Over 300 pieces of anti-LGBTQ legislation have been introduced in state legislatures across the country so far this year, in what advocates are calling an unprecedented assault on transgender rights.
The majority of bills specifically target transgender individuals, ranging from healthcare restrictions to limits on school sports participation. The volume has skyrocketed compared to previous years, with 2023 on track to exceed 2022's record number of anti-trans bills.
“This is not regular politics — it’s a moral panic,” said journalist Erin Reed, who tracks anti-LGBTQ legislation extensively. “It’s gone beyond politicking and is now basically whatever [conservatives] can use to rally their base.”
Many bills have origins in model legislation pushed by national conservative groups. The Heritage Foundation's “Project 2025” blueprint lays out plans to rescind LGBTQ protections over the next three years, establishing what critics call a path toward authoritarian rule. Efforts span from empowering a right-wing federal workforce to utilizing agencies like the CDC for invasive data collection on sexuality.
The recent bills rely largely on unfounded claims that inclusive policies endanger cisgender students and undermine parental rights. Alabama, Arizona, and other states target healthcare coverage for transition-related care for minors even as major medical associations endorse affirming care.
Experts widely discredit arguments that acknowledging young transgender students’ identities or respecting pronouns can influence peers’ orientations. Similarly, sports participation bans counter research showing trans athletes have no consistent performance advantages in their gender category after beginning hormones, though schemes differ.
Reed warned that families are already being forced to “flee their homes or hide just to get healthcare” while awaiting legal challenges against healthcare restrictions. While some Senate Democrats have spoken against anti-LGBTQ measures, the White House response remains muted to date. With administrations empowered to interpret sex protections, legislative defeats may not spell the end as court battles loom ahead.
Saturday Jan 13, 2024
Saturday Jan 13, 2024
Saturday Jan 13, 2024
This episode revisits one of the most impactful exposés we’ve ever done on The Narativ – confirming Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell’s industrial-scale blackmail operation as assets of Israeli and Russian intelligence. The goal was the mass compromise of American politicians and public figures to control narratives and policies for Israel and Russia’s benefit. Analysis of Epstein’s flight logs underlines the central role of both countries, with 11 flights each recorded to Moscow/St. Petersburg and Tel Aviv.
We also examine key differences between Trump’s willing partnership with Epstein versus Clinton's seemingly being targeted for compromise. And explore how the Republican party increasingly resembles a Kremlin-controlled entity, likely due to the damaging information Russia holds on its members.
We must most urgently recognize that democracy remains under concerted attack by sophisticated global forces, just as in 2016-2020. As 2024 approaches, this episode is a stark reminder that we never fully emerged victorious from that information war, making the coming election all the more pivotal. America’s enemies are still circling for the kill shot against our democratic system. We ignore that stark reality at our own peril.
Friday Dec 08, 2023
Friday Dec 08, 2023
Friday Dec 08, 2023
Exclusive: Two MPS charged with high treason in Ukraine; Hunter laptop was really data distributed by Giuliani and Bannon, and Mike Johnson's Russian benefactor is Putin's arms supplier.
The impeachment proceedings against President Biden that are now ramping up in the House have an alarming origin story - a network of Russian spies.
Over the last several years, Russian intelligence agencies like the GRU have been working diligently behind the scenes to craft a narrative about supposed Biden family corruption in Ukraine. Their goal? To damage Biden's presidency and tilt the scales toward a Trump return to power in 2024.
Two Ukrainian members of parliament, Andrei Derkach and Oleksandr Dubinsky, were recently arrested on treason charges for running a multi-million dollar election interference campaign to spread allegations about the Bidens on Russia's behalf. Both men met with Trump's lawyer Rudy Giuliani in 2019 to push claims about Hunter Biden's foreign business dealings.
Yet the GOP is still basing its impeachment push on the very same Russian-backed Hunter Biden narrative. They continue lying about "evidence" of Biden wrongdoing that does not actually exist. And it's working - polls find a majority of Americans now wrongly think Biden did something illegal.
But here's the kicker: The so-called "laptop" full of Hunter Biden's emails is likely just a sophisticated hack of his iCloud account. Both Giuliani and Steve Bannon disseminated hacked data that intelligence experts believe originated from Russian intelligence to discredit the Bidens.
In other words, impeachment is being fueled entirely by a years-long Russian spy plot. Yet Republicans continue perpetuating this propaganda operation because it serves their political interests, no matter the damage done to America's democracy.
The man now pushing impeachment in the House, new Speaker Mike Johnson, has suspicious ties to Russia himself. Johnson accepted campaign donations from Russian oligarch Konstantin Nikolayev, who supplies weapons for Russia's invasion of Ukraine and previously handled exposed Russian spy Maria Butina in the U.S.
Johnson took Russian money even while accusing Democrats of being soft on Russia. His former ally Liz Cheney labeled him "a collaborator" for his continued perpetuation of Trump's election lies after Jan. 6th. Now we know he's gotten in bed with Kremlin-connected Russians too.
By pursuing impeachment based on Russian disinformation, Johnson is serving Putin's interests - not America's. He is undermining our democracy and aiding election interference yet again. The presence of this kind of Russian "collaborator" at the very top ranks of U.S. power is a threat unlike we've ever seen.
Tuesday Dec 05, 2023
Tuesday Dec 05, 2023
Tuesday Dec 05, 2023
From The Archive: This podcast episode originally aired May 3 2022, the same day as the leak of a controversial Supreme Court opinion that indicated Roe v. Wade would soon be overturned.
Before Leonard Leo was a household name, he was on Narativ’s radar and he became the main focus of our coverage the day a Supreme Court opinion leak about Roe v. Wade would be overturned, eliminating federal abortion rights protections.
Eric Garland was my guest that day. We discussed the implications of this bombshell and delve into the decades-long effort by conservatives to reshape the judiciary and set the stage for such a reversal. Central to this strategy has been Leonard Leo, a religiously-motivated lawyer and operative embedded in powerful legal networks like the Federalist Society and the Council for National Policy.
Leonard Leo's Influence
Though not a high-profile public figure, Leonard Leo has played an outsized role coordinating the conservative legal movement's long term plans. Guided by extreme Catholic notions of “natural law,” Leo leveraged his positions within the Federalist Society, the Council for National Policy, and other networks to place ideological allies in key positions. He is also an influential member of the secretive, ultra-conservative Catholic order the Knights of Malta, which bridges his advocacy with international power centers in the Vatican and beyond. Most notably, Leo facilitated over $30 million dollars in Koch brothers donations to reshape George Mason University's law school using his influence on their board. The ultimate goal was to groom Supreme Court justices sympathetic to rolling back liberal decisions on issues like abortion rights. Justices Gorsuch, Kavanaugh and Barrett were all vetted and promoted by Leo before their controversial nominations and confirmations.
Response to Roe v. Wade Leak
The hosts react to realization of Leo’s goal to overturn Roe v. Wade with deep concern regarding legitimacy, given foreign meddling in recent appointments and new evidence indicating corporate capture of the judicial nomination process. More broadly, this episode encapsulates long building progressive fears that a hijacked Supreme Court could severely erode civil rights protections, privacy rights, and other pillars of equitable governance in America, jeopardizing stability and social cohesion. However, the hosts ultimately express hope that lawful accountability and democratic participation can restore rule of law and integrity to the Republic.
Friday Dec 01, 2023
Friday Dec 01, 2023
Friday Dec 01, 2023
Secretary of State Antony Blinken quietly slipped into Israel on Thursday for meetings in Ramallah and Jerusalem to further a bold proposal that may result in a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. Blinken believes the ongoing hostage releases and ceasefire talks provide a diplomatic opening for a long-lasting peace.
Blinken outlined his proposal in a speech Thursday night.
Israel must improve the lives of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza “in immediate, tangible ways.”
Israel must provide Palestinians with a credible path toward statehood.
The US will propose “practical steps” that can be taken to this end.
A “revitalized” Palestinian Authority will govern a united West Bank and Gaza.
The government in Ramallah must reform, end corruption, and promote a free press.
My guest on this week’s podcast is investment banker and Middle-East policy expert Rick Petree. His diplomatic roots, operational experience, and nuanced knowledge make him an ideal expert to assess Blinken’s gambit.
As Rick and I were speaking, the final 8 hostages to be released by Hamas under the 4-day ceasefire - were in transit back home to Israel after 55 days in captivity. 120 Israelis have been freed, 75 remain in captivity.
We discuss how the crisis presents an opportunity for peace and how both Palestinian and Israeli public opinion seem increasingly receptive to dialogue and compromise after decades of failed security doctrines.
Furthermore, the potential spoils of vast offshore gas reserves discovered between Israel and Gaza suggest possible shared prosperity if political cooperation can be achieved.
No naïve optimism is warranted. And yet Blinken’s maneuverings hint that behind the hostage tragedy, economic incentives, and weariness of violence, a cautious hope burns for progress between historic enemies. The ingredients for peace may be aligning if key leaders can seize the moment.
Help us tell the true story of our time through an independent lens. Narativ uses emerging technologies to empower informed action. Support us at https://www.patreon.com/narativ.