Glenn Beck | PBD Podcast | Ep. 353

Glenn Beck, a media veteran with a career spanning over two decades, is not only an excellent communicator and teacher but also an accomplished DJ, television personality, and author. His impact on media, particularly in the areas of history and politics, is significant, and his ability to explain complex ideas clearly sets him apart. Beck's journey began at a young age when he started DJing and continued with stints at CNN, Fox, and The Blaze. He has written numerous books, and his latest, "Dark Future: Uncovering the Great Reset's Terrifying Next Phase," is now available. During their conversation, the hosts discussed Beck's impressive career, his unique teaching style, and his upcoming documentary, "The Real Story of Colony Ridge," which is now available at The Blaze.

The political landscape continues to be filled with controversy and intrigue. James Carville's past issues could potentially impact his ability to campaign, while Trump asserts his demand for presidential immunity. Mikhee Rowe Haley faces a potential embarrassment if she loses in her home state of South Carolina. DeSantis has come to regret his early media avoidance strategy. NATO warns of possible war with Russia, and RFK Junior sees an opportunity to gain support from black voters. Biden's DOJ has acknowledged the authenticity of Hunter Biden's laptop. India isn't being seen as the new China, and Mark Cuban, despite his DEI advocacy, is still viewed as a libertarian. The race for the Minnesota Senate seat is tight between Tom and Vinny, with the first candidate to reach 500 endorsements winning. Bob Iger received a significant salary raise despite layoffs at Disney, and JPMorgan's Jamie Dimon also received a large raise. The race for the Republican vice presidential nomination is heating up, with Representative Elise Stefanik gaining attention. Capitalism continues to reward those at the top, even if they underperform, and India isn't living up to the hype as the new China. The old adage "if you love dogs, you can't vote for Tom" has emerged as a notable campaign quote. The political scene remains dynamic and full of surprises.

The importance of media presence in political campaigns was discussed, with DeSantis acknowledging his early mistake of not focusing enough on media engagement. Glenn Beck shared his appreciation for the American spirit shown by individuals trying to optimize their businesses and side hustles. The group also joked about their ongoing competition on a business app and expressed skepticism towards the system. Vinny's transition into the business world was praised, and Tom's value as a connection was emphasized. Despite the joking and banter, the group's enthusiasm for supporting each other and sharing insights was evident.

The timing of Ron DeSantis' presidential campaign may have been a significant factor in his inability to challenge Donald Trump for the Republican nomination. According to the speaker, DeSantis had the potential to reach a broader audience if he had launched his campaign earlier, before Trump's indictment. The speaker also suggests that DeSantis' strategy, including his debating style and campaign messaging, could have been different if he had started his campaign earlier. The speaker believes that DeSantis' inability to challenge Trump was due in part to the public perception that Trump was being unfairly targeted by the Democrats, and that this perception only strengthened Trump's support among voters. The speaker also expresses his personal admiration for DeSantis and believes that he has the potential to be a strong contender in future presidential elections. However, the speaker emphasizes that the timing of a campaign can be crucial, and that DeSantis may have missed his opportunity in 2024.

Ron DeSantis' campaign for the Republican nomination faced significant challenges due to the unexpected focus on Donald Trump's indictment and the party's shift towards the MAGA movement. DeSantis, who was seen as a strong contender due to his record as Florida's governor, was criticized for running a poorly executed campaign that failed to connect with the common voter. Additionally, the Republican Party's transformation into the MAGA party, which values charisma and boldness, made it difficult for DeSantis, who is perceived as a more reserved figure, to gain traction. Despite his impressive record, DeSantis lacked the "it factor" that other candidates like Vivek Ramaswami and Kari Lake possess, making it unlikely for him to secure the nomination.

Relationships and communication are key in politics and business. The speaker shared an anecdote about how Vivek Ramaswamy, a businessman, retweeted and made a humorous comment on a video of the speaker buying a hot dog. This interaction led to a discussion about DeSantis' campaign strategy and missed opportunities for engagement with influential figures like Trump. The speaker emphasized that starting too late, lacking promotion, and not giving proper credit to those who helped them can negatively impact one's public image and success. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining respectful relationships and expressing gratitude. The speaker's interview with Stephen A. Smith six years ago served as an example of how being critical, yet respectful, can be effective. Ultimately, the speaker's message is that building strong relationships and communicating effectively are essential for achieving success in any field.

Ron DeSantis' decision to not appear on a podcast and run for presidency in 2022, despite initial hesitation, may have been influenced by his team and wife. Had he waited and supported Donald Trump, he could have potentially been considered for the vice presidency. The strategy DeSantis and his team had outlined was solid, but cultural factors and unexpected events, such as Trump's public criticisms, disrupted their plans. Looking ahead, if DeSantis runs again in 2028 and Trump is not a contender, his trajectory could be significantly different. The importance of culture and team dynamics in politics cannot be underestimated, as shown in DeSantis' case. Trump's ability to unexpectedly shift alliances and make unconventional choices adds an extra layer of complexity to political strategy.

Strategic political decisions, such as choosing a vice president, can significantly impact an election and a potential presidency. The speaker in this conversation discusses the potential impact of Tulsi Gabbard as a vice president for a candidate who may not align perfectly with their political ideology. He suggests that a vice president who can appeal to key voting groups, like independent and libertarian voters, could help win the election and bring new ideas to the table. The speaker also reflects on historical examples of vice presidential picks and the potential impact they had on their presidencies. Ultimately, the decision of whether to choose a vice president who aligns closely with one's political beliefs or one who can help win over key voting groups is a complex one that requires careful consideration.

When considering potential running mates for a presidential campaign, it's essential to consider their ability to help the campaign win, even if their personal principles or past actions might not align perfectly with those of the candidate. The example of Lyndon B. Johnson's vice presidency under John F. Kennedy was brought up as an illustration of this concept. Additionally, building a strong team around a candidate, composed of talented and ambitious individuals, can significantly impact the campaign's success. The speakers also emphasized the importance of putting the country's interests above personal ambitions when considering a political role.

The role of the Vice President in American politics has evolved significantly over the past few decades, with the potential for the Vice President to shape the future direction of the country becoming increasingly important. The discussion highlighted the historical context of the Vice Presidency, the impact of aging political leaders, and the potential implications for the 2024 presidential race. The speakers agreed that the Vice President's stance on key issues and their ability to lead effectively in the event of a presidential transition are crucial factors for voters to consider. Additionally, the conversation touched on the importance of having a diversified investment portfolio, with gold being a key component, especially during uncertain economic times.

The ongoing political situation, particularly regarding the 2024 Republican primary, is complex and uncertain. Nikki Haley's chances in the race are being discussed, with some predicting she may not continue if she underperforms in South Carolina. However, her significant financial resources could allow her to press on. Meanwhile, Ron DeSantis' campaign is struggling, and some believe he will soon drop out. Ultimately, it seems clear that Donald Trump is the frontrunner in this race, leaving others to decide whether to continue or exit the contest. The dynamics of the primary are constantly evolving, and the outcome remains uncertain.

Money plays a crucial role in political careers, especially for those aiming for higher offices. Nikki Haley, for instance, is advised to use her donor money to run for senate instead of wasting it on a lost cause. However, the uncertainty surrounding Donald Trump's political future could impact the decisions of potential candidates like Haley and Ron DeSantis. The WEF's increasingly radical stance against Trump raises questions about the importance of open dialogue and the willingness to admit mistakes. Reasoning and learning from differing viewpoints are essential for progress and unity. The WEF's refusal to engage with opposing sides can lead to dangerous and divisive outcomes. Ultimately, the ability to admit being wrong and engage in thoughtful discourse is vital for individuals and society as a whole.

The speaker at Davos criticized the political and business elites present for their perceived disconnect from the average people's concerns. He specifically mentioned issues like immigration, public safety, climate change, China, and gender ideology. He argued that these elites have misrepresented reality on these issues and that the next conservative president, such as Donald Trump, would address these concerns on behalf of the average American. The speaker also criticized the World Economic Forum for giving platforms to those who challenge these elites' narratives, but noted that it might be a sign of the elites beginning to lose their grip on power due to growing public awareness and dissent. The speaker, who is the president of the Heritage Foundation, urged the elites to listen to common sense and trust the science, rather than controlling it. The speaker's appearance at Davos, despite the lack of support from the crowd, was seen as a sign of the elites being open to listening to alternative perspectives.

We are currently witnessing a power struggle between the elites and the people, as described by Malcolm Gladwell at the World Economic Forum. This struggle is not about political parties or figures like Biden or Trump, but about collectivism versus individual freedom. The elites, who can be labeled as various forms of collectivists such as globalists, communists, fascists, socialists, and progressive populist nationalists, are pushing their agendas at the expense of individual rights and freedoms. People are being labeled as radicals or extremists for opposing these agendas, and this has led to a growing resistance from the masses. This resistance is not about hate or intolerance, but about the desire to live one's own life without interference from the elites. The elites, on the other hand, believe in their own superiority and seek power and money above all else. The current state of affairs is unsustainable, and there is a real danger that things could escalate into violence or other forms of conflict. It is essential that we remain vigilant and stand up for our individual rights and freedoms before it's too late.

The world is experiencing significant instability and there is a fear of impending chaos, potentially leading to a dictatorship. The speaker believes that radicals at the top and the streets have control, and a major event could cause even more chaos, leading to a rise in the middle class to stop it. The speaker warns of the possibility of a dictatorship from either direction if people are not careful. They encourage people to know their rights, be united, and have faith. The speaker also believes that every once in a while, God shows His power and we must be prepared. They use examples of unexpected events, such as sports games and natural disasters, to illustrate this point. The speaker encourages people to have faith, but also to do their part in defending and fighting for what they believe in. They also believe that people are finding each other and uniting, which scares the enemy. Overall, the message is one of unity, faith, and preparation for potential chaos.

In the current political climate, it's essential for individuals to stand firm in their values, be humble, and engage in open discussions to challenge perspectives and promote truth. The elites and powerful entities are actively trying to silence opposing voices and manipulate information, making it crucial for us to remain vigilant and united against these attempts. Instances like Mark Cuban's debate on DEI with Elon Musk serve as examples of the importance of engaging in discussions and promoting diverse perspectives, even when facing criticism. Additionally, the ongoing efforts to silence influential figures like Donald Trump and his supporters underscore the urgency of staying involved and fighting for our right to speak our minds.

Mark Cuban's stance on job demographics in the S&P 500 companies raises questions about his motivations. Some see it as a genuine concern for underrepresentation, while others view it as a political statement or an attempt to appease certain groups. Cuban's background as a businessman, media personality, and NBA owner adds complexity to his stance. His evolution from a disruptor to an establishment figure also plays a role. The debate continues on whether his concerns are logical and backed by facts, or if he has been influenced by his surroundings. Regardless, Cuban's stance on this issue highlights the ongoing conversation about diversity, representation, and the role of business in society.

The media landscape has changed dramatically over the years, with neutrality and unbiased reporting giving way to more opinionated and partisan coverage. This was exemplified in the story shared about a journalist who was promised a big role in nighttime news but was ultimately let go due to political pressure. The journalist, despite being a respected figure in the industry, was unceremoniously dismissed after just one day on the job. This incident, which took place around 2009 or earlier, underscores how even prominent figures in media can be "boiled like a frog in the pot," gradually acclimating to the changing industry norms. The consequences of this shift can be far-reaching, affecting both individuals and organizations. For instance, Disney's CEO, Bob Iger, saw his pay double while the company laid off thousands of employees and released multiple box office flops. The media landscape continues to evolve, and it is crucial for us to remain vigilant and committed to seeking out accurate and unbiased information.

Despite Disney experiencing financial and creative struggles, resulting in mass layoffs and significant losses for their streaming services, Bob Iger's compensation more than doubled to $31.6 million for the fiscal year ending in September 2023. This was reportedly part of an employment contract signed when Iger was recruited back to Disney for a 36-month tenure. The compensation included a base salary, stock awards, options, and performance-based pay. Some argue that this pay was not performance-based and instead a predetermined part of the contract. The significant drop in Disney's stock valuation, from $281 billion in 2021 to $158 billion in 2022, has raised concerns among shareholders. The debate continues on whether Iger's compensation was justified, especially given the company's recent challenges.

Bob Iger's retirement in late 2021 and subsequent return in November 2020, coupled with cost-cutting measures, have led to significant financial growth for Disney despite the long production timeline for movies and the company's perceived shift to the left. However, the dismissal of the CFO in October 2020 was likely a cost-saving measure rather than a corrective ideological one, as Hollywood and media outlets have criticized Disney for its direction. The South Park episode mocking Kathleen Kennedy and Disney's perceived wokeness further highlights the public perception of the company's issues. Despite this, Disney continues to own and control some of the most iconic stories and franchises in America, but the mounting debt from acquisitions and the ongoing production timeline for movies present ongoing challenges.

The entertainment industry's decisions, both in what content they release and how they operate internally, can have significant impacts on society. Disney's refusal to release the movie "Sound of Freedom," which exposes child sex trafficking, raises questions about their motives and values. Meanwhile, internal company culture, such as mandatory pronoun identification in Zoom meetings, can create divisions and discomfort among employees. In the geopolitical sphere, the potential for war between China and Taiwan remains a concern, with China's editor-in-chief of Global Times warning of the consequences if Taiwan seeks independence. Ultimately, it's crucial to consider the ripple effects of decisions made in the entertainment and political realms, as they can shape our world in profound ways.

The potential conflict between China and the United States over Taiwan could have devastating consequences for the global semiconductor industry and the world economy as a whole. Some experts believe that if China invades Taiwan, the best hope is to destroy all chip plants to prevent China from obtaining the technology. This would lead to a significant increase in the price of semiconductors, which are essential for various electronic devices, and could cause widespread economic disruption. Furthermore, some powerful individuals may not see this as a problem, as they prioritize the environment and population control over human life. China is seen as manipulating international organizations like the World Economic Forum for its benefit and may prefer a Biden presidency due to perceived influence. China's strategy appears to be long-term, waiting for the right moment to take Taiwan without causing a war. However, there is a concerning perspective among some that catastrophic events, leading to the deaths of billions, could be seen as beneficial due to the belief that the Earth cannot sustain its current population.

The economic and geopolitical consequences of certain political outcomes, such as a Trump presidency or mass immigration, can have significant impacts on industries and national interests. For instance, expanding the military presence in Taiwan could deter potential aggression, but it could also negatively impact the high-end chip market. Similarly, large-scale immigration, particularly from undeveloped areas, can lead to overcrowded communities and cultural tensions, potentially turning a country into a third world nation. These are important considerations that need to be addressed to ensure stability and prosperity for all.

There are serious concerns about illegal immigration and its potential impact on the financial situation and political landscape of the United States, specifically in Texas. The speaker expresses alarm over the large influx of migrants, which they believe is being facilitated by the Biden administration and certain politicians for political gain. They also accuse the governor of Texas of accepting large campaign contributions from a developer involved in the issue, raising questions about potential quid pro quo arrangements. The speaker argues that this situation could lead to the collapse of the economy and government due to overwhelming debt and social unrest. They also mention the Cloud and Piven theory, which suggests intentionally overwhelming systems to cause collapse. Overall, the speaker expresses a deep concern about the current state of affairs and calls for a return to solid principles.

During this conversation, Glenn discussed his documentary and book about the great reset and its terrifying next phase. He urged listeners to check them out, as they are currently available. Additionally, Glenn endorsed the Menect app and shared his belief in its authenticity in a world full of lies. Vinny was mentioned, and it was revealed that Glenn and Vinny have different schedules. Glenn expressed his commitment to responding to everyone and staying up all night to do so. Overall, the conversation touched on important topics such as truth, authenticity, and the importance of staying informed.