S8 Ep669: 12. The "Art of the Deal" and Conflicting Reports on Iran Negotiations GUEST: Bill Roggio, Edmund Fitton-Brown SUMMARY: This segment explores conflicting reports of U.S.-Iran negotiations and Iranian "non-negotiables," such as regime survival. Meanwhile,
12. The "Art of the Deal" and Conflicting Reports on Iran Negotiations GUEST: Bill Roggio, Edmund Fitton-Brown SUMMARY: This segment explores conflicting reports of U.S.-Iran negotiations and Iranian "non-negotiables," such as regime survival. Meanwhile, NATO signals support for keeping the Strait of Hormuz open under international law.,,, Although Trump claims progress on an Iran deal, both si...
7m Mar 31
7m
S8 Ep669: 11. Houthi De Facto Governance and Strategic Influence in Yemen GUEST: Bill Roggio, Edmund Fitton-Brown SUMMARY: Former Ambassador Edmund Fitton-Brown analyzes the Houthis' de facto rule over most of Yemen. While part of the Iranian axis, they maintain st
11. Houthi De Facto Governance and Strategic Influence in Yemen GUEST: Bill Roggio, Edmund Fitton-Brown SUMMARY: Former Ambassador Edmund Fitton-Brownanalyzes the Houthis' de facto rule over most of Yemen. While part of the Iranian axis, they maintain strategic autonomy and pursue extreme territorial claims against Saudi Arabia, including Mecca.,, The Houthis are the de facto rulers of the majo...
12m Mar 31
12m
S8 Ep669: 10. Flavio Bolsonaro Emerges as Leading Contender Against Lula GUEST: Ernesto Araujo, Alejandro Peña Esclusa SUMMARY: Flavio Bolsonaro has emerged as a top presidential contender, tying President Lula in polls. Lula’s administration is currently plagued b
10. Flavio Bolsonaro Emerges as Leading Contender Against Lula GUEST: Ernesto Araujo, Alejandro Peña Esclusa SUMMARY: Flavio Bolsonaro has emerged as a top presidential contender, tying President Lula in polls. Lula’s administration is currently plagued by massive corruption scandals involving $20 billion in social security fraud and money laundering.,, Flavio Bolsonaro, the son of the former p...
7m Mar 31
7m
S8 Ep669: 9. Trump Reverses Cuba Oil Blockade Amid Venezuelan Transition GUEST: Ernesto Araujo, Alejandro Peña Esclusa SUMMARY: President Trump has reversed course by allowing a Russian oil tanker to reach Cuba during its energy crisis. Simultaneously, a political
9. Trump Reverses Cuba Oil Blockade Amid Venezuelan Transition GUEST: Ernesto Araujo, Alejandro Peña Esclusa SUMMARY: President Trump has reversed course by allowing a Russian oil tanker to reach Cuba during its energy crisis. Simultaneously, a political transition unfolds in Venezuela as Nicolas Maduro faces trial in a New York court.,, Trump’s decision to lift the blockade on Russian oil for ...
11m Mar 31
11m
S8 Ep669: 8. Houthis Launch Measured Missile and Drone Attacks Against Israel GUEST: Bill Roggio, Bridget Tumi SUMMARY: The Houthis have entered the Iran war by launching drone and missile attacks on Israel. This "measured" approach signals support for the axis of
8. Houthis Launch Measured Missile and Drone Attacks Against Israel GUEST: Bill Roggio, Bridget Tumi SUMMARY: The Houthishave entered the Iran war by launching drone and missile attacks on Israel. This "measured" approach signals support for the axis of resistance while attempting to avoid an overwhelming American military retaliation., Bridget Tumi reports that the Houthis officially joined th...
9m Mar 31
9m
S8 Ep669: 7. The Surge of Iranian-Linked Front Groups and Terror in Europe GUEST: Bill Roggio, Joe Truzman SUMMARY: Joe Truzman investigates a string of firebombings against Jewish institutions in Europe by a suspected Iranian front group. Analysts believe these "c
7. The Surge of Iranian-Linked Front Groups and Terror in Europe GUEST: Bill Roggio, Joe Truzman SUMMARY: Joe Truzman investigates a string of firebombings against Jewish institutions in Europe by a suspected Iranianfront group. Analysts believe these "cutouts" are designed to hide Tehran’s direct involvement in orchestrating international violence.,, A new group called Asabat al-Yamin has clai...
11m Mar 31
11m
S8 Ep669: 6. Lebanon Declares Iranian Ambassador Designate Persona Non Grata GUEST: Bill Roggio, David Daoud SUMMARY: Lebanon has declared the Iranian ambassador designate persona non grata for interfering in domestic affairs and coordinating with Hezbollah. This r
6. Lebanon Declares Iranian Ambassador Designate Persona Non Grata GUEST: Bill Roggio, David Daoud SUMMARY: Lebanon has declared the Iranian ambassador designate persona non grata for interfering in domestic affairs and coordinating with Hezbollah. This rare assertion of sovereignty highlights Tehran’s long-standing disregard for Lebanese government authority during the war., The Lebanese forei...
4m Mar 31
4m
S8 Ep669: 5. The Strategic Importance of the Litani River Buffer Zone in Lebanon GUEST: Bill Roggio, David Daoud SUMMARY: David Daoud explains the IDF’s offensive to establish a 40km buffer zone up to the Litani River. This strategy aims to protect northern Israel
5. The Strategic Importance of the Litani River Buffer Zone in Lebanon GUEST: Bill Roggio, David Daoud SUMMARY: David Daoud explains the IDF’s offensive to establish a 40km buffer zone up to the Litani River. This strategy aims to protect northern Israel from short-range rockets and prevent future ground invasions by Hezbollah., The IDF is pushing to move Hezbollah back to the Litani River, a 4...
14m Mar 31
14m
S8 Ep669: 4. The Search for Armed Resistance and the Iranian Diaspora’s Role GUEST: Bill Roggio, Jonathan Sia SUMMARY: This file explores the role of the Iranian diaspora and Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi in a potential transition. Analysts evaluate potential bases for
4. The Search for Armed Resistance and the Iranian Diaspora’s Role GUEST: Bill Roggio, Jonathan Sia SUMMARY: This file explores the role of the Iranian diaspora and Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi in a potential transition. Analysts evaluate potential bases for armed resistance, identifying Kurdish and Baluch populations as key entry points.,, Jonathan Sia explains that the diaspora is no longer disc...
6m Mar 31
6m
S8 Ep669: 3. Iranian Regime Employs Human Shields and Nightly Terror Raids GUEST: Bill Roggio, Jonathan Sia SUMMARY: Jonathan Sia details the Iranian regime's use of schools and hospitals as human shields to deter strikes. Security forces conduct nightly terror rai
3. Iranian Regime Employs Human Shields and Nightly Terror Raids GUEST: Bill Roggio, Jonathan Sia SUMMARY: Jonathan Sia details the Iranian regime's use of schools and hospitals as human shields to deter strikes. Security forces conduct nightly terror raids to prevent domestic uprisings while the Supreme Leader’s status remains uncertain.,,, As war fatigue sets in, the Iranian regime is embeddi...
14m Mar 31
14m
S8 Ep669: 2. The Ineffectiveness of the U.S. Hammer Strategy Against Iran GUEST: Husain Haqqani, Bill Roggio SUMMARY: This segment critiques the U.S. "hammer" strategy, comparing it to Vietnam's failure of absolute power. Iran’s ability to endure pain and its contr
2. The Ineffectiveness of the U.S. Hammer Strategy Against Iran GUEST: Husain Haqqani, Bill Roggio SUMMARY: This segment critiques the U.S. "hammer" strategy, comparing it to Vietnam's failure of absolute power. Iran’s ability to endure pain and its control of vital shipping lanes are seen as its true strategic "nuclear weapons.",, Ambassador Haqqani argues that dropping thousands of bombs is a...
9m Mar 31
9m
S8 Ep669: 1. Pakistan Acts as Intermediary in Ongoing Iran-Israel Conflict GUEST: Bill Roggio, Ambassador Husain Haqqani SUMMARY: Pakistan acts as a conduit for messages between Washington and Tehran. While communication exists, neither side has offered a second ne
1. Pakistan Acts as Intermediary in Ongoing Iran-Israel Conflict GUEST: Bill Roggio, Ambassador Husain Haqqani SUMMARY: Pakistan acts as a conduit for messages between Washington and Tehran. While communication exists, neither side has offered a second negotiating position, and Iran continues to demonstrate strategic control over the Strait of Hormuz.,, John Batchelor and his guests discuss the...
9m Mar 31
9m
S8 Ep668: GUEST: Jonathan Sayeh (1) HEADLINE: The Mystery of the Missing Ayatollah (2) Jonathan Sayeh explores the Ayatollah’s absence since the February 28th Tehran attack. Reports suggest he is critically injured or deceased. Sayeh notes this mystery enables the
GUEST: Jonathan Sayeh (1) PREVIEW FOR LATER: The Mystery of the Missing Ayatollah (2) Jonathan Sayeh explores the Ayatollah’s absence since the February 28th Tehran attack. Reports suggest he is critically injured or deceased. Sayeh notes this mystery enables the IRGC to carry out its agenda independently, potentially using a "shadow" leader to maintain the appearance of regime authority. (3) 1...
2m Mar 30
2m
S8 Ep667: PREVIEW FOR LATER Edmond Fitton-Brown discusses ongoing, secretive negotiations between the United States and Iran. Recent military setbacks may force Iranian hardliners like Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf to consider compromises previously deemed impossible. (
PREVIEW FOR LATER Edmond Fitton-Brown discusses ongoing, secretive negotiations between the United States and Iran. Recent military setbacks may force Iranian hardliners like Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf to consider compromises previously deemed impossible. (2) 11/12/1978  TEHRAN
2m Mar 30
2m
S8 Ep667: PREVIEW FOR LATER John Hardie explains Russia is now supplying Iran with upgraded, lethal drones. These shipments likely travel via the Caspian Sea as Ukraine provides counter-drone expertise to targeted Gulf nations. (3)
PREVIEW FOR LATER John Hardieexplains Russia is now supplying Iranwith upgraded, lethal drones. These shipments likely travel via the Caspian Sea as Ukraine provides counter-drone expertise to targeted Gulf nations. (3) 1900 BAKU
13m Mar 30
13m
S8 Ep667: PREVIEW FOR LATER Akmed Sharawi highlights how Iranian missile and drone attacks have shattered Dubai's reputation for stability. This ongoing barrage causes expats to flee, threatening the long-term economic image of the Gulf states. (1)
PREVIEW FOR LATER Akmed Sharawihighlights how Iranian missile and drone attacks have shattered Dubai's reputation for stability. This ongoing barrage causes expats to flee, threatening the long-term economic image of the Gulf states. (1) 1890
2m Mar 30
2m
S8 Ep666: PREVIEW FOR LATER Bill Roggio and Joe Truzman discuss recent terror attacks in Europe and Texas. While some involve ISIS, they examine evidence suggesting potential Iranian involvement through cutout groups during the ongoing regional conflict. (1)
PREVIEW FOR LATER Bill Roggio and Joe Truzman discuss recent terror attacks in Europe and Texas. While some involve ISIS, they examine evidence suggesting potential Iranianinvolvement through cutout groups during the ongoing regional conflict. (1) 1828 BANK OF ENGLAND
1m Mar 30
1m
S8 Ep665: PREVIEW FOR LATER General Blaine Holt details using A-10 Warthogs for close air support during Iranian operations. These aircraft loiter to protect Marines, intercept drones, and allow pilots to exercise judgment when engaging various targets. (2)
PREVIEW FOR LATER General Blaine Holt details using A-10 Warthogs for close air support during Iranianoperations. These aircraft loiter to protect Marines, intercept drones, and allow pilots to exercise judgment when engaging various targets. (2) 1707
1m Mar 30
1m
S8 Ep665: PREVIEW FOR LATER Andrew Collier examines China's readiness for the Iran war, noting their secretive oil stockpiles and reduced petroleum dependency. However, he warns that a global economic downturn could severely impact China's export-driven economy. (1
PREVIEW FOR LATER Andrew Collierexamines China's readiness for the Iran war, noting their secretive oil stockpiles and reduced petroleum dependency. However, he warns that a global economic downturn could severely impact China's export-driven economy. (1) 1793
2m Mar 30
2m
S8 Ep664: 3. Drawing from the biblical narrative of the crucifixion, they interpret Pontius Pilate’s hand-washing as a recognition of Rome’s imperial limitations, a concept they argue Washington currently ignores. Unlike Rome’s historical success in assimilating
3. Drawing from the biblical narrative of the crucifixion, they interpret Pontius Pilate’s hand-washing as a recognition of Rome’s imperial limitations, a concept they argue Washington currently ignores. Unlike Rome’s historical success in assimilating conquered peoples as equals, the U.S. has isolated itself by treating international partners with condescension and contempt. Consequently, inte...
12m Mar 30
12m
S8 Ep664: 2. The economic fallout is highlighted by a 30% surge in gasoline prices, reaching $4.09 in Connecticut within only three weeks of the war’s onset. Germanicus posits that if the "emperor"—who is reportedly distracted by "kill reels" of explosions—cannot s
2. The economic fallout is highlighted by a 30% surge in gasoline prices, reaching $4.09 in Connecticut within only three weeks of the war’s onset. Germanicus posits that if the "emperor"—who is reportedly distracted by "kill reels" of explosions—cannot stabilize the global supply chain, the military or Senate may be forced to intervene to prevent a total domestic collapse. This instability thr...
15m Mar 30
15m
S8 Ep664: 1. In Londinium, Gaius and Germanicus critique the 2026 American war against Iran, noting a complete lack of strategic goals, an exit strategy, or an understanding of the enemy. They liken the current "emperor" to infirm leaders like Tiberius or those of
1. In Londinium, Gaius and Germanicus critique the 2026 American war against Iran, noting a complete lack of strategic goals, an exit strategy, or an understanding of the enemy. They liken the current "emperor" to infirm leaders like Tiberius or those of the third-century crisis, suggesting that the American imperial system is fracturing due to corruption and institutional decay. The debaters w...
30m Mar 30
30m
S8 Ep663: 4. In 1789, Angelica traveled alone to witness George Washington’s inauguration, finding the reality of the new nation more complex and fractious than her idealized memories. She returned permanently to America in 1797, assuming the role of Schuyler fam
4. In 1789, Angelica traveled alone to witness George Washington’s inauguration, finding the reality of the new nation more complex and fractious than her idealized memories. She returned permanently to America in 1797, assuming the role of Schuyler family matriarch. Following a period of profound personal tragedy, including the death of Alexander Hamilton, she demonstrated remarkable resilienc...
8m Mar 30
8m
S8 Ep663: 3. Following the 1783 peace treaty, the family moved to Europe, where "John Carter" reclaimed his true identity as John Barker Church. A high-stakes businessman with a high risk tolerance, he settled the family in London’s elite Mayfair district. Despite
3. Following the 1783 peace treaty, the family moved to Europe, where "John Carter" reclaimed his true identity as John Barker Church. A high-stakes businessman with a high risk tolerance, he settled the family in London’s elite Mayfair district. Despite her English surroundings, Angelica remained a vocal American patriot, often acting as a cultural mediator between Dutch, English, and French s...
12m Mar 30
12m
S8 Ep663: 2. Beer discusses Angelica’s resilience during the Revolution, noting she rejoined the army just weeks after childbirth to be with her husband, a military supplier. Meanwhile, Alexander Hamilton married Angelica’s sister, Betsy, to elevate his social stat
 2. Beer discusses Angelica’s resilience during the Revolution, noting she rejoined the army just weeks after childbirth to be with her husband, a military supplier. Meanwhile, Alexander Hamilton married Angelica’s sister, Betsy, to elevate his social status, though he initially struggled to navigate the dynamics of a powerful family. Angelica’s firstborn son, Philip, later founded the town of ...
7m Mar 30
7m
S8 Ep663: 1. Molly Beer introduces Angelica Schuyler, born into a prominent Dutch family in Albany. Her mother, Catherine, designed and supervised the construction of their mansion, "the Pastures," while Philip Schuyler was away on business. Unusually for the 1760s
1. Molly Beer introduces Angelica Schuyler, born into a prominent Dutch family in Albany. Her mother, Catherine, designed and supervised the construction of their mansion, "the Pastures," while Philip Schuyler was away on business. Unusually for the 1760s, Philip educated his daughters to be business-savvy and "fully functioning" in society. Angelica eventually transitioned from her Dutch upbri...
11m Mar 30
11m
S8 Ep662: 8. Starbase and the Era of the Starship In Boca Chica, Texas, SpaceX built Starbase, a massive rocket factory and launch site, from modest beginnings in a swamp. The focus here is on Starship and the Super Heavy booster, a fully reusable system more pow
8. Starbase and the Era of the Starship In Boca Chica, Texas, SpaceX built Starbase, a massive rocket factory and launch site, from modest beginnings in a swamp. The focus here is on Starship and the Super Heavy booster, a fully reusable system more powerful than the Saturn V. Innovative "chopstick" arms on the launch tower are designed to catch returning boosters to eliminate landing legs and ...
8m Mar 30
8m
S8 Ep662: 7. The "Shoot Show" and Returning Humans to Orbit To secure funding for a manned spacecraft, SpaceX relied on Boeing’s participation to legitimize the Commercial Crew Program in Congress. Development of the Crew Dragon involved the "Shoot Show," a team of
7. The "Shoot Show" and Returning Humans to Orbit To secure funding for a manned spacecraft, SpaceX relied on Boeing’s participation to legitimize the Commercial Crew Program in Congress. Development of the Crew Dragoninvolved the "Shoot Show," a team of young engineers who conducted grueling parachute drop tests in the desert to ensure safe water landings. The program culminated in the success...
11m Mar 30
11m
S8 Ep662: 6. Starlink: Financing the Road to Mars SpaceX developed the Starlink satellite constellation to provide global internet and generate the massive revenue needed to fund the Mars mission. While LEO constellations were previously deemed impractical, SpaceX
6. Starlink: Financing the Road to Mars SpaceX developed the Starlink satellite constellation to provide global internet and generate the massive revenue needed to fund the Mars mission. While LEO constellations were previously deemed impractical, SpaceX utilized its high launch frequency to place thousands of satellites in orbit. Unlike traditional geostationary satellites that suffer from lag...
7m Mar 30
7m
S8 Ep662: 5. Landing Success and the Mystery of Amos-6 In December 2015, SpaceX achieved its first successful land landing at Cape Canaveral, overcoming concerns that the sonic booms might damage nearby spy satellites. However, the company faced a major setback in
5. Landing Success and the Mystery of Amos-6 In December 2015, SpaceX achieved its first successful land landing at Cape Canaveral, overcoming concerns that the sonic booms might damage nearby spy satellites. However, the company faced a major setback in 2016 when the Amos-6 rocket exploded on the pad during fueling. Musk briefly entertained a "sniper theory" involving competitors, though the c...
11m Mar 30
11m
S8 Ep662: 4. Innovating for Power and Precision at Sea To increase rocket efficiency, Musk pushed for propellant densification, chilling liquid oxygen to nearly -300°F to fit 10-12% more mass on board. This segment also explores the "Falcon 9 full thrust" version,
4. Innovating for Power and Precision at Sea To increase rocket efficiency, Musk pushed for propellant densification, chilling liquid oxygen to nearly -300°F to fit 10-12% more mass on board. This segment also explores the "Falcon 9 full thrust" version, which was rebuilt for rapid reuse with upgraded avionics and landing legs. A major challenge involved landing boosters on moving barges in the...
6m Mar 30
6m
S8 Ep662: 3. Dragon’s High-Stakes Arrival at the Space Station Facing the retirement of the Space Shuttle, NASA turned to SpaceX to deliver cargo to the International Space Station. To accelerate progress, Musk combined two test missions into the critical C2C3 flig
3. Dragon’s High-Stakes Arrival at the Space Station Facing the retirement of the Space Shuttle, NASA turned to SpaceX to deliver cargo to the International Space Station. To accelerate progress, Musk combined two test missions into the critical C2C3 flight in 2012. During the mission, a sensor failure nearly forced a scrub, but a brave NASA flight director allowed SpaceX to rewrite flight soft...
13m Mar 30
13m
S8 Ep662: 2. The Grueling Birth of the Falcon 9 Rocket The sources detail the intense development of the Falcon 9, featuring nine Merlin engines housed in an "octaweb" structure. Engineers endured a "road trip from Hades," transporting the massive rocket by truck f
2. The Grueling Birth of the Falcon 9 Rocket The sources detail the intense development of the Falcon 9, featuring nine Merlin engines housed in an "octaweb" structure. Engineers endured a "road trip from Hades," transporting the massive rocket by truck from Texas to Florida via backroads, even crashing it into a building in Louisiana. Before the 2010 inaugural launch, crews used a hair dryer t...
9m Mar 30
9m
S8 Ep662: 1. Musk’s Audacious Vision for a Multi-Planetary Future In this segment, guest Eric Berger discusses Elon Musk’s 2016 speech in Guadalajara, where he unveiled a grandiose plan to colonize Mars. Despite a recent rocket explosion, Musk proposed sending hund
1. Musk’s Audacious Vision for a Multi-Planetary Future In this segment, guest Eric Berger discusses Elon Musk’s 2016 speech in Guadalajara, where he unveiled a grandiose plan to colonize Mars. Despite a recent rocket explosion, Musk proposed sending hundreds of people at a time to establish a self-sustaining civilization. Driven by the need to safeguard "the lamp of consciousness" against pote...
9m Mar 30
9m
S8 Ep661: 8. From the Ivory-billed woodpecker's extinction to the Endangered Species Act, America's conservation history is mixed. Today, the battle continues as scientific ecology clashes with lingering political ideologies regarding predator management. (8)
8. From the Ivory-billed woodpecker'sextinction to the Endangered Species Act, America's conservation history is mixed. Today, the battle continues as scientific ecology clashes with lingering political ideologies regarding predator management. (8)
10m Mar 29
10m
S8 Ep661: 7. Wealthy Europeans initiated destructive safaris, treating the West like a private killing field. Despite myths, Phil Sheridan later sought to protect wildlife, while the Boone and Crockett Club pioneered conservation. (7)
7. Wealthy Europeans initiated destructive safaris, treating the Westlike a private killing field. Despite myths, Phil Sheridan later sought to protect wildlife, while the Boone and Crockett Club pioneered conservation. (7) 1871
11m Mar 29
11m
S8 Ep661: 6. While John James Audubon eventually regretted his "monster" hunting past, Lewis and Clark’s expedition systematically massacred grizzly bears. This destruction reflects a pervasive cultural mindset that prioritized predation over scientific preservatio
6. While John James Audubon eventually regretted his "monster" hunting past, Lewis and Clark’s expedition systematically massacred grizzly bears. This destruction reflects a pervasive cultural mindset that prioritized predation over scientific preservation. (6) 1862
7m Mar 29
7m
S8 Ep661: 5. Henry David Thoreau expressed deep regret over exterminated species, yet most Americans ignored extinction risks. A global market economy soon commodified wildlife like beavers, fueled by Adam Smith’s philosophy of self-interest. (5)
5. Henry David Thoreau expressed deep regret over exterminated species, yet most Americans ignored extinction risks. A global market economy soon commodified wildlife like beavers, fueled by Adam Smith’s philosophy of self-interest. (5) 1859
12m Mar 29
12m
S8 Ep661: 4. European arrival brought a herding culture that clashed with North American predators. Driven by human exceptionalism and religious dogma, colonists viewed wolves as enemies, initiating bounties to eliminate the "common devourer". (4)
4. European arrival brought a herding culture that clashed with North American predators. Driven by human exceptionalism and religious dogma, colonists viewed wolves as enemies, initiating bounties to eliminate the "common devourer". (4) 1838
8m Mar 29
8m
S8 Ep661: 3. Following the Pleistocene, bison filled vacant ecological niches while hunter-gatherers maintained biological diversity for millennia. These cultures viewed animals as spiritual kin, keeping human populations low to ensure environmental stability. (3)
     3. Following the Pleistocene, bison filled vacant ecological niches while hunter-gatherers maintained biological diversity for millennia. These cultures viewed animals as spiritual kin, keeping human populations low to ensure environmental stability. (3) 1908
12m Mar 29
12m
S8 Ep661: 2. Flores discusses the Clovis culture's rapid expansion and its role in the American extinction of large mammals. While climate played a part, overhunting and genomic isolation likely triggered these disappearances. (2)
2. Flores discusses the Clovis culture'srapid expansion and its role in the American extinction of large mammals. While climate played a part, overhunting and genomic isolationlikely triggered these disappearances. (2) 1908
7m Mar 29
7m
S8 Ep661: 1. Dan Flores introduces his book, exploring North America's mammalian evolution and human arrival. He distinguishes between indigenous species and immigrants while highlighting how early humans, as carnivorous predators, began impacting naive wildlife. (
1. Dan Flores introduces his book, exploring North America's mammalian evolution and human arrival. He distinguishes between indigenous species and immigrants while highlighting how early humans, as carnivorous predators, began impacting naive wildlife. (1) 1860
12m Mar 29
12m
S8 Ep660: 4. Robotic Conquests and the Challenges of Human Exploration Shindell traces the history of NASA’s robotic missions, from the Mariner flybys to the Perseverance rover. He also addresses political shifts post-Apollo and the immense technical hurdles fac
4. Robotic Conquests and the Challenges of Human ExplorationShindell traces the history of NASA’s robotic missions, from the Mariner flybys to the Perseverance rover. He also addresses political shifts post-Apollo and the immense technical hurdles facing future human colonization and survival. (4) 1917 BURROUGHS
6m Mar 29
6m
S8 Ep660: 3. From Natural Origins to the Myth of Martian Canals The discussion shifts to the Scientific Revolution, where thinkers like Newton and Buffon sought natural explanations for the solar system. Later, figures like Percival Lowell popularized the controver
3. From Natural Origins to the Myth of Martian Canals The discussion shifts to the Scientific Revolution, where thinkers like Newton and Buffon sought natural explanations for the solar system. Later, figures like Percival Lowellpopularized the controversial idea of inhabited Martian worlds. (3) 1917 BURROUGHS
14m Mar 29
14m
S8 Ep660: 2. Medieval Science and Dante’s Virtuous Red Planet Shindell discusses the Islamic Golden Age's preservation of astronomical knowledge in Baghdad and Damascus. He also highlights how Dante Alighieri uniquely redefined Mars as a symbol of fortitude and sac
2. Medieval Science and Dante’s Virtuous Red Planet Shindell discusses the Islamic Golden Age's preservation of astronomical knowledge in Baghdad and Damascus. He also highlights how Dante Alighieri uniquely redefined Mars as a symbol of fortitude and sacrifice for the medieval world. (2) 1917
5m Mar 29
5m
S8 Ep660: 1. Ancient Interpretations and the Birth of Scientific Observation Matthew Shindell explores how the Mayans, Chinese, and Mesopotamians projected human meaning onto Mars. These early civilizations used celestial movements to predict earthly events, ultima
1. Ancient Interpretations and the Birth of Scientific ObservationMatthew Shindell explores how the Mayans, Chinese, and Mesopotamians projected human meaning onto Mars. These early civilizations used celestial movements to predict earthly events, ultimately laying the groundwork for mathematical science and astronomy. (1) 1913
13m Mar 29
13m
S8 Ep659: 4. The Final Chance: A Heroic Rescue and Successful Orbit Guest Eric Berger describes the dramatic fourth Falcon 1 mission in late 2008. To meet a tight deadline, the team transported the rocket via a military C-17, but the booster began imploding
4. The Final Chance: A Heroic Rescue and Successful Orbit Guest Eric Berger describes the dramatic fourth Falcon 1 mission in late 2008. To meet a tight deadline, the team transported the rocket via a military C-17, but the booster began imploding during descent. Engineer Zach Dunn saved the mission by crawling inside the collapsing rocket to manually equalize the pressure. On September 28, the...
9m Mar 29
9m
S8 Ep659: 3. Facing Failure: The Slosh Problem and Financial Crisis Guest Eric Berger details the second and third Falcon 1 failures between 2007 and 2008. The second attempt reached space but failed to achieve orbit due to fuel "slosh" in the upper stage—a concern
3. Facing Failure: The Slosh Problem and Financial Crisis Guest Eric Berger details the second and third Falcon 1 failures between 2007 and 2008. The second attempt reached space but failed to achieve orbit due to fuel "slosh" in the upper stage—a concern the team had notoriously omitted from their top-ten list. The third flight failed when the first stage collided with the second stage after s...
12m Mar 29
12m
S8 Ep659: 2. The Founding of SpaceX: Vertical Integration and Early Ambition Guest Eric Berger recounts the origins of SpaceX, starting with Elon Musk's 2001 vision to disrupt the space industry. Musk invested $100 million of his own fortune and hired experts like
2. The Founding of SpaceX: Vertical Integration and Early AmbitionGuest Eric Berger recounts the origins of SpaceX, starting with Elon Musk's 2001 vision to disrupt the space industry. Musk invested $100 million of his own fortune and hired experts like Tom Mueller and Chris Thompson after being initially mocked by the aerospace establishment. The company pioneered vertical integration, designi...
8m Mar 29
8m
S8 Ep659: 1. SpaceX's First Falcon 1 Attempt: A Tropical Trial by Fire Guest Eric Berger discusses the first launch of SpaceX's Falcon 1 in March 2006. To bypass regulatory delays in California, the team moved operations to Omalik Island in the Pacific. Key personn
1. SpaceX's First Falcon 1 Attempt: A Tropical Trial by Fire Guest Eric Berger discusses the first launch of SpaceX's Falcon 1 in March 2006. To bypass regulatory delays in California, the team moved operations to Omalik Island in the Pacific. Key personnel, including Hans Koenigman and launch director Tim Buzza, oversaw the attempt to reach orbit using the Merlin engine. The launch failed afte...
10m Mar 29
10m