Newt's World

Newt talks with John Hart, CEO of Open the Books. Open the Books is a non-profit that operates the largest private database of public spending, encompassing 10 billion data points, including federal salaries, state checkbooks, and municipal spending. Their mission is to make this information accessible to journalists, researchers, activists, public officials, and taxpayers in near real-time. They have partnered with Citizen Portal to integrate artificial intelligence, allowing taxpayers to compare political statements with actual spending. This collaboration aims to prevent fraud by using AI for pattern recognition and prediction, similar to how Galileo's telescope revolutionized astronomy. The initiative, called Aqueduct, seeks to enhance citizen engagement by providing clear insights into government spending. The collaboration is expected to have a significant impact on government transparency both in the U.S. and globally. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Liya Palagashvili, a senior research fellow at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University about the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the labor market. Their conversation highlights the transformative potential of AI in reorganizing work, potentially leading to a shift towards self-employment and independent entrepreneurship. Liya emphasizes that AI can empower workers by automating mundane tasks, allowing them to focus on more valuable activities, and suggests that AI might change how work is organized rather than simply replacing jobs. Their discussion also touches on the historical context of technological advancements, noting that while some jobs are lost, new markets and occupations emerge, leading to overall job growth. They conclude with a discussion on the role of education in preparing for an AI-driven future, considering different approaches to integrating AI into learning environments. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Peter Schweizer, about his #1 New York Times bestseller, "The Invisible Coup.” They discuss the concept of weaponized migration, where mass migration is used as a political tool against the United States, orchestrated by both domestic elites and foreign adversaries. Schweizer highlights historical instances like the Mariel boatlift of 1980 as a precursor to current strategies, where foreign governments, such as Cuba, used migration to infiltrate the U.S. with criminals and intelligence operatives. They also discuss the role of Mexico, with its extensive network of consulates in the U.S., which Schweizer claims are used to exert political influence and sovereignty within American borders. Schweizer also raises concerns about birthright citizenship and dual citizenship, particularly in the context of Chinese "birth tourism," where children born in the U.S. are raised abroad but retain American citizenship. He suggests that these practices pose a national security threat, as they create a generation of citizens whose loyalties may not align with the U.S. Their conversation concludes with Schweizer emphasizing the need for the U.S. to address these issues to protect its national security and cultural identity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Chris Brickler, co-founder and CEO of Mynd Immersive. He discusses the innovative use of virtual reality (VR) to address challenges faced by an aging population, such as mobility, isolation, and loneliness. Mynd Immersive's VR technology aims to transport seniors out of their mundane environments into engaging experiences, such as concerts and museum tours, enhancing their mental and emotional well-being. Mynd collaborates with universities and researchers to explore the health benefits of VR for older adults. The company has developed partnerships with organizations like the VA and CTA Foundation to expand access to underserved communities and veterans. Research studies, including collaborations with the VA and Stanford, have demonstrated significant reductions in isolation among seniors using Mynd Immersive’s VR technology. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Jonathan Turley, a prominent legal scholar and author, about his new book, "Rage and the Republic: The Unfinished Story of the American Revolution," Turley, who holds the Shapiro Chair for Public Interest Law at George Washington University Law School, explores the unique origins of American democracy and its potential to endure in the 21st century. His book delves into the American Revolution through the perspective of Thomas Paine, highlighting his transformation from a failed individual to a pivotal figure in the revolution. Turley contrasts the American and French Revolutions, emphasizing the role of rage in sparking revolutions and the importance of channeling that rage into productive outcomes, as seen in the ratification of the U.S. Constitution. Their discussion also touches on contemporary challenges, such as the rise of socialism and the impact of AI and robotics on employment, stressing the need to preserve the values that have historically underpinned American success. Turley expresses optimism about America's ability to navigate these challenges, contrasting it with the European Union's bureaucratic struggles. They conclude with reflections on America's continuous evolution and the enduring opportunities it offers for individual advancement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Marc Beckman, producer of the new documentary film “Melania” and Melania Trump’s senior advisor and agent for more than 25 years. The film, directed by Brett Ratner, offers an intimate look into the life of Melania Trump, focusing on her role as First Lady and her relationship with President Trump. The film follows her for 20 days leading up to the inauguration on January 20, 2025, and has broken box office records in its first week in theaters. “Melania” aims to provide a groundbreaking visual and sonic experience, diverging from traditional documentary film formats. It features a first-class production team, including two Oscar-winning cinematographers, and a diverse soundtrack with artists like The Rolling Stones and Elvis. The film captures significant moments, such as Mrs. Trump reflecting on her immigrant experience during the inauguration, and her involvement in initiatives like the “Take It Down Act” and foster care reform. Mrs. Trump’s commitment to her family and work ethic is emphasized, with insights into her dedication to her role as First Lady and her involvement in various philanthropic efforts. The film’s success has led to plans for a docuseries to further explore her life, showcasing her as a figure who transcends the traditional role of First Lady. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Thomas Hoenig, a former Federal Reserve official and Distinguished Senior Fellow at the Mercatus Center, about the nomination of Kevin Warsh as the new Chairman of the Federal Reserve. President Trump’s decision has sparked discussion on Warsh's economic policies. Warsh, known for his hawkish views, is concerned about national debt and quantitative easing, which may lead to tighter policies than President Trump desires. Hoenig believes Warsh is a good choice due to his understanding of markets and fiscal policies, although he will face pressure to implement rate cuts. The independence of the Federal Reserve is emphasized, with Warsh expected to maintain a balance between being friendly to the President and upholding the Fed's independence. His nomination has influenced market behavior, with significant drops in gold and silver prices, reflecting expectations of tighter monetary policy under Warsh. The political landscape is also affected, with discussions on the potential challenges Warsh might face in the Senate confirmation process and the implications of ongoing legal cases involving Federal Reserve officials. The role of the Federal Reserve in the economy is highlighted, with its policies significantly impacting inflation, interest rates, and overall economic stability. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Chad Wolf, Chair of America First Policy Institute's Homeland Security and Immigration division, about the recent events in Minnesota, particularly focusing on immigration enforcement and the role of ICE. Their discussion highlights the challenges faced by ICE in Minneapolis due to local sanctuary policies and the rhetoric from local leaders, which have led to increased violence and danger for ICE officers. Tom Homan, a veteran with over 30 years of experience in immigration enforcement, has been deployed to Minnesota to address these issues. His efforts focus on reducing tensions and ensuring ICE can perform targeted operations to remove dangerous criminals. Their conversation also covers the political climate in Minnesota, where a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security has been filed, challenging ICE's operations. Wolf contrasts Minnesota's approach with that of Florida, where there is cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE, leading to more effective immigration enforcement. Wolf also covers the broader implications of immigration policies under different administrations, with a focus on the Trump administration's efforts to secure the border and reduce illegal entries. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Xi Van Fleet about her new book, “Made in America: The Hidden History of How the U.S. Enabled Communist China and Created Our Greatest Threat” co-authored with Yu Jie. Her book explores the historical connections between the United States and the rise of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), emphasizing the role of the U.S. in enabling China's current global ambitions. Xi is a prominent anti-communist voice and gained national attention with a speech to the Loudoun County, Virginia school board comparing critical race theory to Mao's cultural revolution, highlighting the dangers of Marxist ideologies in America. They discuss the parallels between identity politics in the U.S, and class divisions in Maoist China, warning of the potential loss of freedom if these ideologies continue to spread. They also discuss the indoctrination occurring within American educational institutions. They conclude with concerns about the CCP's influence, and the internal threats posed by communist ideologies within the United States. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Fred Ryan, Chairman of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute and director of the new Center on Civility and Democracy. They discuss the importance of President Reagan's legacy of principled civility in today's divided political climate. Ryan reflects on Reagan's ability to maintain firm views while finding common ground, emphasizing the importance of everyone leaving the room with dignity and achieving incremental progress. Their conversation highlights Reagan's personal traits and principles, shaped by his upbringing and experiences, which contributed to his effective communication and leadership style. They also discuss the current political climate, noting a decline in trust in institutions and the role of media and social media in exacerbating divisions. Ryan outlines the Center's initiatives, including the Civil Discourse Project for K-12 students, the Civility Handbook, and forums to find common ground among diverse groups. The Center’s goal is to promote civil discourse and find common ground to advance democracy through informed patriotism. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Tracy Shuchart, Senior Economist at NinjaTrader Live and the author of “The Venezuelan Oil Narrative is Pure Theater.” They discuss her insights on Venezuela's geopolitical and economic landscape. Shuchart argues that the current narrative focusing on Venezuela's oil is misleading, emphasizing instead the significance of critical minerals and the influence of China, Iran, and Russia in the region. She highlights Venezuela's vast deposits of rare earth minerals, which are crucial for advanced technologies and national security, and warns of China's dominance in this sector. Shuchart also details the involvement of Iran and Russia in Venezuela, noting the presence of Iranian weapons and Russian military advisors, which pose a national security threat to the United States. Despite the removal of Maduro, Shuchart suggests that the regime's core remains intact, and significant changes in Venezuela's governance are yet to be seen. She also discusses the broader implications of shifting supply chains away from China, a move encouraged by the current U.S. administration to bolster North American mining and reduce dependency on Chinese processing. Shuchart's analysis underscores the complex interplay of economic and geopolitical factors shaping Venezuela's future and its impact on global markets. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Alireza Jafarzadeh, Deputy Director of the U.S. office of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI-US), and the author of “The Iran Threat.” They discuss the ongoing protests in Iran, which began in late December due to severe economic hardships caused by runaway inflation. The protests have evolved from demands for economic relief to calls for the overthrow of the Islamic Republic, a theocratic dictatorship currently led by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Iranian government has responded with severe crackdowns, including internet shutdowns and lethal force, resulting in over 3,000 deaths and the arrest of at least 50,000 people. The protests have spread across all 31 provinces, with significant participation from various societal sectors, including small business owners who previously supported the regime. The organized opposition, particularly the MEK and its resistance units, play a crucial role in sustaining the protests despite government repression. Their discussion also touches on the historical context of the regime's reliance on repression and terrorism to maintain power, as well as the potential for international support to influence the outcome. Jafarzadeh concludes with a call for the international community to recognize and support the Iranian people's right to resist the regime. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Homes for Our Troops, President and CEO Brigadier General, (USA, Retired) Tom Landwermeyer and Yancy Baer, Major, U.S. Army, (Retired). Homes for Our Troops is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building and donating specially adapted custom homes for severely injured post-9/11 veterans across the United States. These homes are designed to restore freedom and independence to veterans who have suffered injuries such as limb amputations, paralysis, blindness, severe burns, and traumatic brain injuries, allowing them to focus on family, recovery, and rebuilding their lives. Homes for Our Troops builds homes in locations chosen by the veterans and maintains a relationship with them post-delivery to assist in their life rebuilding process. The organization has built homes in 46 states and is approaching the milestone of 500 homes. The homes feature more than 40 special adaptations, such as automatic doors, accessible cabinets, and roll-under counters, to accommodate the needs of veterans. The organization also provides financial planning and homeownership education. Community involvement is a significant aspect of the program, with local communities actively participating in welcoming veterans into their new homes. The organization emphasizes that supporting veterans is a duty of our country, and it aims to repay a small portion of the debt owed to those who have served. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Congresswoman Maria Salazar, representing Florida's 27th Congressional District, about her background, experiences, and legislative initiatives. Salazar, a five-time Emmy award-winning journalist, has a history of confronting powerful figures like Fidel Castro and Nicolás Maduro. She shares insights from her upbringing in Miami's Little Havana, emphasizing the impact of her Cuban refugee heritage and the importance of American values. Their conversation also covers the political situation in Venezuela, highlighting the need for stability and the role of American support in facilitating a democratic transition. Salazar criticizes Maduro as a puppet of Havana and discusses the challenges facing Venezuelan opposition leaders. Salazar's legislative focus includes The DIGNITY Act, which aims to reform immigration by providing a path to dignity for undocumented immigrants without granting citizenship. Her proposal seeks to secure the border, stabilize the labor force, and align with American values. The act emphasizes the importance of treating immigrants with dignity while addressing national security and economic needs. Salazar's book, "Dignity Not Citizenship," further explores these themes, advocating for a balanced approach to immigration reform. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Herman Pirchner and Ilan Berman from the American Foreign Policy Council about their new book, “The New Imperialists” which explores the collaboration between Russia, China, and Iran, along with allies like North Korea and Venezuela, to challenge the United States' global leadership. Their conversation highlights the strategic actions taken by the Trump administration, including the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro, as part of a broader strategy to counteract these alliances. They also discuss the geopolitical implications of Venezuela's alignment with anti-American forces and the potential impact on U.S. national security. Pirchner and Berman discuss the strategic importance of Greenland in the context of American defense and its relevance to the imperial ambitions of Russia. Additionally, they discuss the new AFPC publication, "Statecraft and Strategy," aimed at providing a comprehensive view of global trends and foreign policy issues, bridging the gap between partisan perspectives. They underscore the interconnectedness of global geopolitical dynamics and the strategic responses required to address emerging threats. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The lives of these men are essential to understanding the American form of government and our ideals of liberty. The Founding Fathers all played key roles in the securing of American independence from Great Britain and in the creation of the government of the United States of America. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The lives of these men are essential to understanding the American form of government and our ideals of liberty. The Founding Fathers all played key roles in the securing of American independence from Great Britain and in the creation of the government of the United States of America. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The lives of these men are essential to understanding the American form of government and our ideals of liberty. The Founding Fathers all played key roles in the securing of American independence from Great Britain and in the creation of the government of the United States of America. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The lives of these men are essential to understanding the American form of government and our ideals of liberty. The Founding Fathers all played key roles in the securing of American independence from Great Britain and in the creation of the government of the United States of America. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The lives of these men are essential to understanding the American form of government and our ideals of liberty. The Founding Fathers all played key roles in the securing of American independence from Great Britain and in the creation of the government of the United States of America. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.