What does the dawn of Trump’s second presidency mean for America and the world? In this hard-hitting episode of The Focus, host John Bruni sits down with Dr. Roy Casagranda to break down the first three weeks of the Trump 47 administration.

Show Notes:

Roy Casagranda LinksX: @RoyCasagranda Website: https://gov.casagranda.com/index.html

Books by Roy:The Blood Throne of Caria (Empire of the Nightingale Book 3), Sekhmet Liminal Press, LLC, 2018.

Articles by Roy:Nationalism and the Left: Liberation not Supremacy, IAI News, March 3, 2023, https://iai.tv/articles/nationalism-and-the-left-roy-casagranda-auid-2408.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can Ukraine’s security dilemma reshape the global nuclear order? Join us as we explore the chilling realities of nuclear escalation, broken international promises, and what it takes to secure lasting peace with expert Mariana Budjeryn.

Show Notes:

https://www.belfercenter.org/person/mariana-budjeryn

https://www.belfercenter.org/publication/mariana-budjeryn-personal-perspective-war-ukraine

https://thebulletin.org/2024/11/biden-allowing-ukraine-to-strike-into-russia-is-much-ado-for-little-consequence/#post-heading

https://thebulletin.org/2024/10/why-russia-is-more-likely-to-go-nuclear-in-ukraine-if-its-winning/#post-heading

https://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/russia-fsu/2022-04-08/was-ukraine-wrong-give-its-nukes

https://carnegieendowment.org/events/2024/02/should-ukraine-have-kept-nuclear-weapons-deconstructing-the-decision-to-disarm?lang=en

Books - 

Inheriting the Bomb: The Collapse of the USSR and the Nuclear Disarmament of Ukraine (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2023) 

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Join us on "The Focus" as we dive deep into the Ukrainian Kursk Incursion with Commander of the Royal Danish Navy and YouTuber, Anders Puck Nielsen. This episode provides expert analysis on Russian military tactics and the strategic implications for the region. Captain Nielsen brings his extensive knowledge to discuss the size and scope of Russian forces, those of Ukraine as well as the unsettling potential of unconventional warfare. Tune in to gain a critical understanding of these pivotal military developments directly affecting European security.\

Show Notes - 

Ander’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@anderspuck

His ‘Logic of War’ Newsletter. To see content, you’ll have to subscribe - https://anderspucknielsen.dk/en/frontpage/

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Join us on The Focus as we delve into the world of deception and skullduggery surrounding the failed Franco-Australian Submarine Deal. Investigative journalist and author Andrew J. Fowler exposes the hidden truths and political manoeuvres that jeopardised Australia's sovereignty and led us to AUKUS. Don't miss this eye-opening episode!

Show Notes:

Connect with Andrew on X - @AndrewJFowler

Buy Andrew’s book Nuked on the following link:

https://www.mup.com.au/books/nuked-paperback-softback

Inside Story piece on Nuked:

https://insidestory.org.au/fear-and-loathing-in-the-american-alliance/

The Newtown Review of Books:

https://newtownreviewofbooks.com.au/andrew-fowler-nuked-the-submarine-fiasco-that-sank-australias-sovereignty-reviewed-by-braham-dabscheck/

Queensland Reviewer’s Collective:

https://www.queenslandreviewerscollective.com/2024/07/02/nuked-by-andrew-fowler/

Previous interviews with Andrew J. Fowler:

Julian Assange: Path to Freedom

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPV8xuWpSAk&t=1s

Mike Pezzulo:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Pezzullo

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Are We Ready for AI to Surpass Human Intelligence by 2045?  

Join The Focus Podcast with technologist Evanna Hu as we delve into how AI developments, and AI regulation will impact on our future!

Show Notes:

Omelas Website –

https://www.omelas.io/#1

Evanna’s bio:

https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/expert/evanna-hu/

Scowcroft Centre for Strategy & Security

https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/programs/scowcroft-center-for-strategy-and-security/

Evanna’s article cited in this podcast:

https://afsa.org/sites/default/files/flipping_book/0624/34/

pages 35-37

Previous Episodes of The Focus dealing with AI:

Steven Feldstein – The Dark Side of AI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpyBcwVmExI&t=85s

Prof. Toby Walsh – Artificial Intelligence: Drone World rather than West World?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27gAoq38-Rg&t=201s

Prof. Sam Moyne – Humane War: Making a Better World?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFx0gBV_tm0&t=232s\

Peter Warren – The Future of Chatbots: A Closer Look

https://sageinternational.com.au/the-focus/the-future-of-chatbots-a-closer-look-with-peter-warren/

Dr. Russell Brinkworth – Drones from the Biology of Insects

https://sageinternational.com.au/the-focus/drones-from-the-biology-of-insects/

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Join us on The Focus as Dr. Alice Yang dives deep into the volatile dynamics of Taiwan's political landscape, its tense relationship with China, and what the future holds for this strategic island nation. Don't miss this eye-opening discussion that uncovers the real stakes and hidden narratives behind one of Asia's most critical geopolitical issues!

Show Notes:

Dr. Alice Yang Bio:

https://indsr.org.tw/en/member?resid=8&uid=2&pid=90

Institute for National Defence and Security Research (INDSR):

https://indsr.org.tw/en/index

Notable Publications:

Annual Assessment Reports at INDSR: These reports cover various aspects of Taiwan's defence strategy, including military technology trends and China's military developments​ (INDSR)​.

Weaponized Interdependence: China’s Economic Statecraft and Social Penetration against Taiwan: This paper discusses how China uses economic means to influence and penetrate Taiwanese society, published in the journal Orbis​ (TAEF)​.

Building a Disaster Resilient Community in Taiwan: Co-authored with Judy H.S. Wu, this research analyses the social capital in disaster preparedness in Taiwan, published in Politics and Governance​(TAEF)​.

Enabling Human Values in Foreign Policy: This paper explores the transformation of Taiwan's New Southbound Policy, emphasizing the human values driving Taiwan's foreign policy, published in the Journal of Human Values​ (TAEF)​.

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Join us on The Focus as we delve into a gripping conversation with Dr. Andrew A. Michta, senior fellow and director of the Scowcroft Strategy Initiative at the Atlantic Council. In this episode, we explore the pivotal moments in history that have shaped our world and discuss the urgent strategic decisions facing the U.S. and its allies today.

Andrew’s Politico Article:

The West’s biggest vulnerability is internal

Andrew’s Bio and Related Sites:

Dr. Andrew A. Michta Bio

Scowcroft Strategy Initiative

The Atlantic Council

Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security

X:

@andrewmichta 

@AtlanticCouncil

@ACScowcroft

Extra:

My Florentine ancestor who wrote De Militia was Leonardo Bruni also known as Leonardo Aretino. He was a major Renaissance Humanist and Historian and Chancellor of Florence 1410-11 & 1427-44.

SACEUR - acronym for Supreme Allied Commander Europe

SHAPE - acronym for Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe

(U.S.) EUCOM - acronym for United States European Command

Top 5 U.S. Defence Contractors as at 2024 in order of revenue:

1. Lockheed Martin
2. RTX Corporation
3. Northrop Grumman
4. Boeing
5. General Dynamics

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Get ready for an explosive episode with investigative journalist Andrew J. Fowler as we uncover Julian Assange's path to freedom and his future moves.

Show Notes

Books by Andrew J. Fowler - 

Nuked: The Submarine Fiasco that Sank Australia’s Sovereignty, 2024

(New Edition) The Most Dangerous Man in the World: Julian Assange and WikiLeaks Fight for Freedom, 2020

Secret Australia – contributor, 2020

Shooting the Messenger: Criminalising Journalism, 2018

The War on Journalism: Media Moguls, Whistleblowers and the Price of Freedom, 2015

The Most Dangerous Man in the World: Julian Assange and the inside story on WikiLeaks, 2011

Twitter:

@AndrewJFowler

Wikimedia Commons:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrew_Fowler_(journalist)

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Join us for an exclusive dive into the July 4, 2024 British election with UK political warhorse Chris Mullin! From insider perspectives to strategic analysis, unlock the secrets of UK politics in our latest podcast episode. Listen now and stay ahead of the electoral game!

Show Notes:

Books by Chris Mullin – 

1982 A Very British Coup

1986, Error of Judgement

2009, A View from the Foothills

2010, Decline & Fall

2011, A Walk-On Part

2016, Hinterland

2019, The Friends of Harry Perkins

2023, Didn’t You Used to be Chris Mullin?

Social Media – 

Website: https://www.chrismullinexmp.com/

X: @chrismullinexmp 

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Join us for an electrifying episode as John reunites with Harvard's esteemed Professor Avi Loeb! It's been almost 11 months since their last conversation, and the world of UAPs (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) has been buzzing with groundbreaking developments. From a U.S. Congressional Inquiry shaking up the discourse to the dramatic resignation of the head of the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office, the landscape has never been more intriguing. Plus, delve into the fascinating details of Avi's Silver Star Expedition, where fragments of the mysterious IM1 meteor have undergone rigorous testing. Tune in as we unravel these astonishing updates and much more. Don't miss it!

Show Notes:

https://avi-loeb.medium.com/embracing-nicolaus-copernicus-in-toru%C5%84-6ad3072da35d

https://avi-loeb.medium.com/lessons-from-the-2024-munich-security-conference-78995ef580a9

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fw9l0mK466I

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The upcoming U.S. presidential election between incumbent Democrat Joe Biden & presumptive Republican candidate, former president Donald Trump is likely to be a bang-up contest between two very old men. The most pressing touch-button issue they’ll be facing is the number of undocumented arrivals from Mexico and Latin America. Both candidates admit the current American migration system is broken. But who will have the best fix? Also, as John discussed with guest Assoc. Prof. Julia G. Young, hasn’t America - indeed every settler society - gone through these sorts of issues before?

For more information about the American Immigration issue see:

https://www.pewresearch.org/

&

https://www.migrationpolicy.org/

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In this episode, John speaks with former Executive Director of Human Right’s Watch (HRW) & Princeton’s Prof. Kenneth Roth on Netanyahu v. Hamas. In a war known for having broken the laws of war on both sides, can anyone really say either Hamas or Netanyahu holds the moral high ground?

Show notes:

The Roth & Sparrow piece in Foreign Policy (February 2024) can be seen here - https://foreignpolicy.com/2024/02/09/israel-gaza-health-care-hospitals-genocide-icj/ 

The Forensic Architecture website can be seen here - https://forensic-architecture.org/

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🔥 What Will Trump 47 Mean for America and the World? 🚨 From immigration crackdowns to a potential ceasefire in Ukraine, we're diving deep with Dr. Roy Casagranda into the policies, global impacts, and controversies that could define Donald Trump’s second term. 🌍 Don’t miss this eye-opening discussion on how his leadership might reshape domestic politics, the economy, education, and America’s role on the world stage. 🎙️ Tune in now for insights you won’t hear anywhere else!

Show Notes:

Roy Casagranda Links

X: @RoyCasagranda 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.roy.casagranda?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Website: https://gov.casagranda.com/index.html

Books by Roy:

The Blood Throne of Caria (Empire of the Nightingale Book 3), Sekhmet Liminal Press, LLC, 2018.

Articles by Roy:

Nationalism and the Left: Liberation not Supremacy, IAI News, March 3, 2023, https://iai.tv/articles/nationalism-and-the-left-roy-casagranda-auid-2408.

Glossary of Terms:

Affluenza is a term that combines "affluence" and "influenza" to describe the negative psychological, social, and ethical consequences of excessive wealth or materialism. It often refers to a condition where individuals, particularly in affluent societies, prioritize material gain and consumerism over meaningful relationships, personal fulfillment, or social responsibility.

Key characteristics of affluenza include:

1.     Entitlement Mentality: A belief that one deserves special treatment or privileges due to wealth or social status.

2.     Lack of Accountability: Difficulty in understanding or facing the consequences of one's actions, often attributed to a sheltered or overly privileged upbringing.

3.     Emotional Detachment: Feelings of emptiness, dissatisfaction, or unhappiness despite material abundance.

4.     Consumer Culture: A compulsion to acquire more possessions, equating them with happiness or success, often leading to financial strain or debt.

The term is often used in both psychological discussions and cultural critiques to highlight the downsides of material wealth and unchecked consumerism. It gained broader recognition after being used in legal contexts to describe the behavior of individuals whose privilege was cited as a factor in poor decision-making or lack of moral responsibility.

Filibuster is a parliamentary tactic used primarily in the U.S. Senate to delay or block legislative action by extending debate on a proposed bill or other matters.

World War I, Battle of Jutland The Battle of Jutland, fought from May 31 to June 1, 1916, was the largest naval battle of World War I and a pivotal clash between the British Royal Navy’s Grand Fleet and the Imperial German Navy’s High Seas Fleet. It took place in the North Sea, near Denmark’s Jutland Peninsula.

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🔥 Unraveling Yemen's Political Maze: The Shocking Truth Revealed!

💥 Brace yourselves for an eye-opening conversation that shatters every preconceived notion about Yemen! In an exclusive episode, John delves deep into the heart of Yemen's political labyrinth with none other than the European Institute of Peace's Senior Advisor, Hisham Al-Omeisy.

🌍 Prepare to have your worldview rocked as Hisham and John dissect the enigmatic layers of Yemen's intricate politics. Forget everything you thought you knew about this tumultuous nation because the truth is far more baffling than you could ever imagine!

💣 But that's not all! Dive into the murky waters of Yemen's maritime chaos as Hisham and John uncover the startling motivations behind the Houthi attacks on commercial shipping. Spoiler alert: It's not what the mainstream media wants you to believe!

🔍 Don't miss out on this riveting discussion that challenges the very fabric of conventional wisdom. Buckle up as we embark on a journey through Yemen's untold stories – the revelations will leave you speechless! Click now to uncover the shocking truth that's been hiding in plain sight!

Show Notes:

Hisham Al-Omeisy’s bio - https://www.eip.org/team-organisation/hisham-al-omeisy/

Hisham’s story as a prisoner of the Houthis - https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/prominent-yemeni-activist-detained-houthis-sanaa

Hisham’s take on the West v. Houthis - https://www.aa.com.tr/en/politics/west-vs-houthis-experts-warn-middle-east-a-powder-keg-call-for-political-solution-to-red-sea-standoff/3112691#

Hisham speaks with CNN’s Christine Amanpour - https://edition.cnn.com/videos/tv/2024/02/06/amanpour-yemen-houthis-hisham-al-omeisy.cnn

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In this episode John speak with Associate Fellow of the German Council on Foreign Relations, Dr. Karl-Heinz Kamp. Karl-Heinz is a specialist on German foreign and strategic policy and we’ll be delving deep into what appears to be a German military resurgence in Europe. Will this strengthen the Continent, will it be destabilising? And probably most importantly can it be sustained?

Links

German Council on Foreign Relations website can be accessed - here

The Alphen Group website can be accessed - here

University Roma Tre website can be accessed - here

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In this episode, John is again joined by US Army LTG Ben Hodges (Ret.) where they discuss noted historian, author and commentator, Professor Niall Ferguson’s notion that we are currently in Cold War 2.0.

Show Notes - 

For those of you who’d like to know more about the work of The Alphen Group (TAG), please access via the following Link: https://thealphengroup.com/

Our interview on the darker aspects of AI with Steven Feldstein can be seen here – video: https://youtu.be/MpyBcwVmExI?si=Wg9gEJpfAgPvAl5h audio: https://omny.fm/shows/the-focus-1/repressive-ai

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In this espisode, the first one for 2024, we start off hot by speaking with Scott Lucas on events in the Middle East from Gaza to Lebanon and from Yemen to Jordan and Iran, why have things gone so wrong and what lies ahead?

Scott’s latest piece in The Conversation can be found - here

927 Magazine can be found - here

Scott’s website EA Worldview can be found - here

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In this, our last episode for 2023, we have a treat for all you geopolitical junkies out there! We speak to Jonathan Powell, former Chief of Staff to the Blair government (1997-2007). 2024 will be a big year of elections around the world. One of which, the U.S. presidential election, due in November of next year, will prove decisive for a whole bunch of countries and may impact on our futures in a negative way. Here we analyse the problems and prospects of Britain under a potential Starmer leadership, should Labour win in 2024. What will change and what will remain the same?

• How to contain a recalcitrant Russia? - Financial Review - David Manning & Jonathan Powell
• Talking to Terrorists: How to End Armed Conflicts, Jonathan Powell, Vintage Digital, 2 October, 2014 

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In this episode, one of the last for 2023, we take a lighter turn as John speaks with Prof. Kenneth Womack, Professor of English and Popular Music at Monmouth University, New Jersey, talking about his latest book – a biography on Mal Evans – the Beatles’ Mr Fixit. This is a fascinating look at the rock and roll industry in the 1960s, how it compares to that of today and the seductive, corrupting influence of the rock and roll lifestyle and how it took its toll on the guy who took care of one of the greatest bands in the world.

Book - Living The Beatles Legend - The Untold Story of Mal Evans by Kenneth Womack

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In this interview with Deakin University’s Emeritus Prof Damien Kingsbury, John discusses the main themes of Damien’s latest book “The Rise and Decline of Modern Democracy”, Routledge, 2023. What is democracy? How old is the variant we are living with? How has neoliberal economics played its part in diminishing its importance around the world, leading to the rise of autocracy. Join us for this fascinating discussion.

https://www.routledge.com/The-Rise-and-Decline-of-Modern-Democracy/Kingsbury/p/book/9781032218168

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In this episode, hot on the heels of the latest war in the Middle East, John speaks to writer and journalist Thomas Fazi to discuss ‘permacrisis’. What is it? And how does it threaten our way of life?

Books by Thomas Fazi:

The Battle for Europe: How an Elite Hijacked a Continent – and How We Can Take It Back (Pluto Press, 2014),

Reclaiming the State: A Progressive Vision of Sovereignty for a Post-Neoliberal World (co-authored with Bill Mitchell; Pluto Press, 2017) 

The Covid Consensus: The Global Assault on Democracy and the Poor—A Critique from the Left (co-authored with Toby Green; Hurst Publishers, 2023). 

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🧠 In this thought-provoking conversation, Steven Feldstein takes us on a captivating exploration of the dark underbelly of AI, where the lines between technology and tyranny blur. He unveils the unsettling truth about how repressive regimes are weaponizing AI to surveil, control, and silence dissent. 😨🔍

Show Notes

📖 In this episode, we journey into the world of Repressive AI with none other than Steven Feldstein, the author of "The Rise of Digital Repression: How Technology is Reshaping Power, Politics, and Resistance." (📚 Buy it here: Amazon)

🧠 Steven Feldstein, a leading authority in the field, guides us through the complexities of how technology and AI are reshaping the dynamics of power, politics, and resistance. We dive deep into the dark side of AI and its implications for democracy, governance, and global politics.

🔍 In his latest journal article, "The Consequences of Generative AI for Democracy, Governance, and War," published in Global Politics and Strategy, Survival, Volume 65, 2023 - Issue 5, Steven Feldstein sheds light on the far-reaching consequences of generative AI. We discuss the findings and their impact on our world today.

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🎉 Get ready to dive deep into the thrilling world of international relations! 🌍

In this electrifying episode, we've got the brilliant and dynamic Lauren Sukin, a young scholar hailing from the prestigious London School of Economics. 🎓 Hold on tight, folks, because this Assistant Professor of International Relations is about to take us on a wild ride!

Buckle up for an explosive conversation that zeroes in on one of the most pressing global concerns: North Korea. 🚀 Lauren's expertise in nuclear weapons and alliance politics will leave you at the edge of your seat as we unravel the intricate web of threats posed by this enigmatic nation.

But wait, there's more! 🌟 Discover why America is struggling to rein in North Korea's behavior, and prepare to be blown away by the depth of knowledge and insights that Lauren brings to the table. It's an exceptionally engaging and detailed discussion that you won't want to miss!

Get ready to expand your horizons and gain a whole new perspective on international affairs. Hit that subscribe button, smash that like button, and join us for a mind-blowing journey through the world of geopolitics! 🌐💥

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In our latest episode of The Focus, we sit down with Dr. Roy Casagranda to delve into the high-stakes landscape of the 2024 U.S. presidential election. With democracy, alliances, and the global order on the line, Dr. Casagranda unpacks the complexities surrounding Trump AND Harris as presidential candidates, exploring how their policies and political manoeuvres could reshape America and its role on the world stage. Join us for this in-depth analysis of an election that could redefine the future.

Show Notes:

Roy Casagranda Links

X: @RoyCasagranda 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.roy.casagranda?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Website: https://gov.casagranda.com/index.html

Books by Roy:

The Blood Throne of Caria (Empire of the Nightingale Book 3), Sekhmet Liminal Press, LLC, 2018.

Articles by Roy:

Nationalism and the Left: Liberation not Supremacy, IAI News, March 3, 2023, https://iai.tv/articles/nationalism-and-the-left-roy-casagranda-auid-2408.

Glossary of Terms:

NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) was replaced by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), 1 July 2020.

FDR (Franklin Delano Roosevelt), 32nd President of the United States.

Jill Stein from Pennsylvania is an American physician, activist & politician associated with the Green Party. Her political campaigns primary revolve around the Green New Deal.

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Today, we have two incredible guests joining us for a deep dive into this pivotal moment in history. Dr. Rodrigo Acuña and Prof. Clinton Fernandes are here to unravel the untold stories, enduring impacts, and the resilient spirit of Chile in the five decades since the historic coup. So, buckle up as we journey through time and uncover the layers of history, right here on The Focus.

Show Notes:
For those interested in getting hold of that book Clinton mentioned by author Nicolas Jose, its called The Idealist & should be out at all good bookstores soon.
For those of you interested in the background and works of Jared Diamond, here’s a little summary for your interest purloined from our friends at Wikipedia: Jared Mason Diamond is an American geographer, historian, ornithologist, and author best known for his popular science books The Third Chimpanzee; Guns, Germs, and Steel; Collapse, The World Until Yesterday, and Upheaval. And yes, in 1961, he earned his PhD on the membranes in the gallbladder, some suggesting his diverse authorship including on topics such as geography, history and anthropology is on the account of Diamond being a polymath.

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Today we are joined once again by Dr. Sean McFate in part two of our exploration of the evolution of warfare in the 21st Century. Here we focus on Sneaky War, something Sean raised the last time he was on with us. Oh, and Sean also shares his insights regarding the alleged assassination of Wagner Boss Yevgeny Prigozhin & founder Dmitri Utkin.

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In this episode John is joined by former commanding general of the U.S. Army in Europe, Lt. Gen Ben Hodges (Ret’d) where they have an honest discussion on the Ukrainian Counter-Offensive, the state of Western and Russian defence manufacture and much more besides. Join us for this fascinating and deeply engaging interview, only on SAGE International’s The Focus!

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In this episode John speaks with prominent American strategist Dr. Sean McFate on the increasing use of mercenaries on the modern battlefield. Sean and John discuss mercenaries, the Wagner Group, the fetishisation of modern military technology and nuclear deterrence. Sean says, we are going back to a very old form of war fighting that predates the modern international order. Sean also observes that we are entering an era of 'durable disorder,' another aspect of human affairs that predates what we are used to seeing today. Sadly this episode left much untouched due to time restraints, however, we hope to follow this podcast up with one with Sean entitled 'Sneaky War' in the near future, so stay tuned!

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In this episode, we speak once again to Harvard Professor Avi Loeb. This time we talk about his recent Silver Star Expedition. What did he find off the coast of Manus Island (Papua New Guinea)? How will this affect our understanding of the interstellar medium, and if the fragments of IM1 are of ‘intelligent manufacture’, how will this change our view of ourselves in the universe? Join us on a fascinating journey of discovery! 

For those of you who would like to watch ‘Our Future In Space: the Ignatius Forum’ at the National Cathedral in Washington DC back in November 2021, please click on the following link: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67KZfeZyw_U

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In this episode, we are joined by Haitian-born writer and journalist Monique Clesca to speak about the tragic situation of her home country - the Republic of Haiti. Riven by endemic corruption, gang violence, foreigners backing anti-democratic forces and hit by natural calamities, is there any hope for this country? Join us to find out.

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In this episode of The Focus Raw, we are pleased to have British-based YouTuber, Philospher and keen observer of Russian politics - Vlad Vexler with us. Vlad gives his views on the Prigozhin Mutiny and his analysis of the main characters in what appears to be high-order political drama in Moscow since the events of 23rd June. This is one episode you don't want to miss!

Vlad's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@VladVexler

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In this episode John speaks with Edith Cowan University lecturer in international business, Dr. Naoise McDonagh on the phenomenon of ‘friend-shoring’. We delve deep into what this means for the People’s Republic of China, the Chinese Communist Party and the world at large. The answers are…complicated, and not what you may expect.

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In this episode, we’re joined by US-based international debunker, Mick West where we discuss the recent claims made by former US intelligence officer, David Grusch, on the US government hiding a UFO/UAP crash retrieval program. We’ve dealt in some seriously interesting topics, but this one takes the cake!

Show Notes:

For more about the centrality of Skin Walker Ranch to the current UFO/UAP narrative see Steven Greenstreet’s take-down of the place on his YouTube series on the following links:

Part 1 - https://youtu.be/VwfaAz9kxcc

Part 2 - https://youtu.be/sCQRMGOc9M8

Part 3 - https://youtu.be/8Bp0weO-hiI 

Part 4 - https://youtu.be/Q9Kwv_p2Cww

Final - https://youtu.be/3Tsg0X4onCo 

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Today we’re joined from the U.S. by Jeremy Barr. Jeremy is the Washington Post’s news media reporter and he’ll be giving us a run-down on the chaos that has recently struck U.S. media giant Fox News, part of the stables of international media empire builder, Adelaide’s own, Rupert Murdoch.

Support the show: https://www.sageinternational.org.au/strategikon-merch/

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🔥 Iran's Largest Missile Barrage Yet! 🔥 In this explosive episode of The Focus, we dive into the unprecedented Iranian missile strikes on Israel in 2024, the largest of its kind since the conflict began. With 200 ballistic missiles fired, retaliation for the assassinations of key Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, and Israel's air defenses pushed to the limit, we sit down with Professor Scott Lucas, an expert in international relations, to break down what this all means for the future of the Middle East. Could this be the flashpoint for a larger conflict? 🚨 Don't miss this must-listen episode!

SHOW NOTES:

X: @ScottLucas_EA

Website: eaworldview.com

Books:

(Eds. Bevan Sewell & Scott Lucas ) Challenging US Foreign Policy: America and the World in the Long Twentieth Century, 2011.

(Eds. Scott Lucas & Ali Fisher) The Trials of Public Diplomacy, 2010.

Scholarly Articles:

Lucas, Scott & Paraszczuk, Joanna. (2014). The Middle East: Between Geography and Power. Bustan: The Middle East Book Review. 5. 17-23. 10.1163/18785328-00501002. 

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It’s been twenty years since the March 2003 Iraq War. The country is still unstable. The U.S. has by and large forgotten about the war and probably will only will re-engage with Iraq if radical group ISIS makes a major comeback. Iraqis are now left to themselves to pick up the pieces from years of international isolation, foreign military intervention and civil war. Was the 2003 Iraq War worth the effort? Did a neutered Saddam really pose a danger to the international order in the Middle East? Join John as he speaks with Yale scholar, Emma Sky to discuss this issue.

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In this episode of The Focus, host John Bruni speaks with British technology and investigative journalist Peter Warren about the impact of chatbots and artificial intelligence on society. They delve into the potential benefits and pitfalls of this rapidly-evolving technology, including its impact on employment, biases and privacy concerns, and the need for ethical and responsible development. Peter Warren provides insights into the hyperbole surrounding chatbots and whether general AI is a reality or still a far-off dream. Join them for a thought-provoking and informative discussion on the complex and ever-changing landscape of AI and its impact on our world.

Show Notes:

Future Intelligence Link can be found here: https://www.futureintelligence.co.uk/

A good explanation of the Kardashev Scale can be found here: https://futurism.com/the-kardashev-scale-type-i-ii-iii-iv-v-civilization

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In Season 3, Episode 3, John is joined by professional sceptic & science writer Mick West to talk about the recent Chinese spy balloon shoot-down by the US Air Force…and the shoot down of those 'other things'. Were they also balloons? Were they Chinese? Or were they from ‘out of this world’? Join John and Mick as they go through what the evidence has to say about spy balloons, UAPs generally and the reliability of onboard cockpit data and pilot identification. Not all is as straight forward as it seems. For more info on Mick West, please refer to the following links: 

Sutter Buttes UFO Solved & Balloon Identified

youtube.com

Response to David Fravor "debunking" me on Lex Fridman

youtube.com

Gimbal UFO - A New Analysis

youtube.com

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In this episode we follow up an old story that we reported back when we were a radio show on Radio Adelaide. It’s arguably one of the world’s most difficult issues to grapple with and it comes down to what we in the West value most, money or morality. In the neoliberal age we live in, often also called a post-ideological age, money and profit are the glues that keep societies together. So long as we all value profit, we can all get along. But can we? If we sell out to the great 'monetary god’, are we not in danger of selling out our soul in a sort of Faustian pact? The West has this problem over what to do with totalitarian China. Elites in the West and the People’s Republic like making money and so long as trade and commerce generates wealth for both, everyone’s happy. But when this wealth is generated on the backs of repressed and persecuted minorities, do we care? This problem dogs the the world’s Muslim countries too. In China, Muslim Uyghurs are being persecuted and repressed. In many Muslim countries, Chinese money and good relations with a secular, ‘godless' communist regime in China IS rated as more important than the fate of Uyghur co-religionists.  Join us as John talks with U.S. based Uyghur activist Rushan Abbas on this important issue.
If you want to know about Rushan Abbas’ Documentary 'In Search of My Sister’, you can rent or buy it for a modest fee on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/insearchofmysister 
If you want to know more about the work of Rushan’s organisation: Campaign for Uyghurs, please follow this link: https://campaignforuyghurs.org/ 

Support the show: https://www.sageinternational.org.au/strategikon-merch/

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In this our first episode of The Focus for 2023, we look at some fascinating developments in drone technology taking place here in South Australia, at Flinders University. Since the Russia-Ukraine War, drones have been receiving a lot of attention as the 21st Century’s primary weapons/surveillance platforms. But just imagine if we can improve in their capabilities by borrowing from the biology of insects, giving drones ‘instinctive’ sensors, thereby allowing them to move seamlessly in the natural environment. Here we speak to Dr Russell Brinkworth, Associate Professor in Autonomous Systems at the College of Science & Engineering who is working on making that happen. 

Support the show: https://www.sageinternational.org.au/strategikon-merch/

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Back in April of this year, we were lucky to have spoken with the University of Portsmouth’s Dr. Frank Ledwidge on the operational aspects of the Russia-Ukraine War. Now, 9 months after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, we speak with Frank again to see how changes on the battlefield have changed the scale and nature of the Russian ’Special Military Operation’. Are we close to determining a winner? Can the Ukrainians defeat the Russians? Will there be a peace settlement before things spiral out of control?

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It is often said that the casualties in war are the innocents. In the Russia-Ukraine War, probably the most innocent of victims are disabled children. Unable to flee the fighting on their own accord, they are dependent on their parents, their families, the state and NGOs to get them out of harm’s way. But sometimes, sadly, logistically and organisationally, this is an impossible task. To discuss this less reported element of the Russia-Ukraine War, from Ukraine, we are joined by Halyna Kurylo. Halyna is Director for Ukraine Rapid Response, Disability Rights International (DRI).

If you want to know more about the work of DRI, please click on the hyperlink provided: https://www.driadvocacy.org/ 

Support the show: https://www.sageinternational.org.au/strategikon-merch/

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Policing in the 21st Century is no easy thing. There’s the neoliberal impulse to do more with less people and resources. There’s the problem of bureaucratic and legal red tape which never seems to bring timely justice and security to the community and of course there’s the problem of 21st Century technology where crime has been digitised and moved into cyberspace, giving tech savvy criminals the edge over police agencies all over the world. Join John as he speaks with Director of Strategic Solutions at Thomson Reuters and former Police Officer with the London Met, Mark Nuttall, as they discuss the challenges of modern policing.

Support the show: https://www.sageinternational.org.au/strategikon-merch/

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Ever wondered what the QAnon phenomenon is and how far reaching its power over the United States body politic? Well fear not dear listener. In this episode we speak with journalist and author Mike Rothschild on his latest book - The Storm Is Upon Us: How QAnon Became a Movement, Cult, and Conspiracy Theory of Everything. I was shocked to find out just how wounded American society and politics is because of this strange and perplexing movement where truth is turned on its ear. Once you listen to this episode, you can’t un-listen to it. And before you say anything Mike is not from THAT Rothschild family. Or is he?

Support the show: https://www.sageinternational.org.au/strategikon-merch/

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A lot has been said about Neoliberal economics and its socio-political consequences. In this podcast, we are joined by Cambridge University’s Professor Gary Gerstle to discuss the key themes of his new book: The Rise and Fall of the Neoliberal Order. This is a journey into the dark heart of how neoliberal economics came to dominate economic life, everywhere. But it also a surprisingly optimistic in how we might escape the worst aftereffects of this philosophy.

Support the show: https://www.sageinternational.org.au/strategikon-merch/

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Is there a new 'Harris Doctrine' on the horizon? Join Yale historian Dr. Michael Brenes as we unpack Kamala Harris's foreign policy vision in our latest podcast!

Show Notes:

You can contact Michael here:

X: @mbrenes1

Substack: michaelbrenes.substack.com

Books published by Michael – 

• And, as mentioned in the podcast - The Rivalry Peril: How Great-Power Competition Threatens Peace and Weakens Democracy, and TO BE published by Yale University Press in January 2025.
• Rethinking U.S. Power: Domestic Histories of U.S. Foreign Relations, published by Palgrave MacMillan in 2024.
• For Might and Right: Cold War Defense Spending and the Remaking of American Democracy, published by University of Massachusetts Press in 2020.

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Have you ever wondered about what transports our potable water around our city precincts? I’ll confess that I didn’t really know this was a story until Producer Malcolm brought it to my attention. But that overused and constantly ignored bit of infrastructure under our feet has a story and it is an interesting one. In the United States there’s a push to replace lead water pipes with plastic ones. But it seems the obvious health problems associated with lead pipes will be replaced with other health problems associated with plastic. Join us for this unusual but fascinating tale of two piping systems.

Support the show: https://www.sageinternational.org.au/strategikon-merch/

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Support the show: https://www.sageinternational.org.au/strategikon-merch/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Support the show: https://www.sageinternational.org.au/strategikon-merch/

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In this episode, we are please to have back on The Focus, Dr. Ramzy Baroud. Ramzy speaks to John about the major themes of his latest book -  Our Vision for Liberation: Engaged Palestinian Leaders & Intellectuals Speak Out, published by Clarity Press Inc & the European Centre for Palestine Studies in May 2022.

Support the show: https://www.sageinternational.org.au/strategikon-merch/

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