The John Batchelor Show

Anatol Lieven Anatol Lieven discusses whether Germany might reconnect with Russian energy to save its economy. He argues that political reputations and established security stances make a return to Moscow’s oil and gas highly improbable.Germany’s Energy Dilemma and the Improbability of a Russian U-Turn (5)1855 RUSSIA

STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW WITH ALAN TONELSON AND JIM MCTAGUE, 3-19-26NOVEMBER 1932The provided transcript features a discussion on the John Batchelor Show regarding the global economic and geopolitical crises stemming from conflict in the Middle East. The participants analyze how rising energy prices and the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz are driving inflation and threatening a global recession. They specifically examine the Trump administration's response to Iranian aggression and the resulting strain on European allies facing exorbitant fuel costs. The conversation transitions into the transformative role of AI, debating whether the technology will cause mass layoffs or serve as a vital productivity tool. While some speakers view AI as a creative partner for future entrepreneurs, others express skepticism regarding its accuracy and the privacy risks of digital surveillance. The dialogue concludes by weighing the immediate dangers of war against the long-term, unpredictable shift toward an automated economy. (1)

STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW WITH GORDON CHANG, STEVE YATES, JIM FANELL AND CHARLES BURTON.1920 BRECKENRIDGE TEXASThe provided transcript from The John Batchelor Show explores the geopolitical complexities surrounding President Trump’s postponed trip to Beijing amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East. Gordon Chang and Steve Yatesdiscuss how China leverages diplomatic ambiguity to project power, noting that the Chinese government never officially confirmed the summit dates. The dialogue shifts to maritime security, where Captain James Fanell evaluates the People’s Liberation Army Navy's use of new drone technology as a propaganda tool in the South China Sea. Additionally, Charles Burton analyzes Canada’s controversial shift toward Chinese electric vehicles, describing it as "maple washing" to bypass North American trade policies. The participants collectively argue that Western nations remain vulnerable to Chinese influence operations and unreliable trade commitments. Through these various lenses, the source highlights a global landscape defined by strategic uncertainty and the fraying of traditional alliances.

SHOW SCHEDULE 3-18-261900 OTTAWA1. Guests Gordon Chang and Steve Yates discuss the postponed Trump-Xi summit during the Iran war. They analyze Chinese negotiation tactics that favor theater over substance and Xi’s belief in the inevitable decline of the West.,,, (2)2. Guest Captain James Fanell analyzes China’s AR2000 shipborne drone, describing it as a propaganda signaling tool. He notes the PLA Navy currently lacks the carrier experience and volume necessary to sustain major bombing campaigns.,,, (3)3. Guest Charles Burton critiques Canada’s import of Chinese electric vehicles as a dangerous economic concession. He warns of "maple washing," security risks, and "elite capture" by Beijing, which threatens Canadian sovereignty and human rights.,, (4)4. Guests Gordon Chang and Charles Burton express skepticism about U.S.-China trade truces, noting Beijing's history of non-compliance. They advocate for North American collaboration on critical mineral processing to reduce dependence on Chinese state-controlled monopolies.,,, (5)5. Guest Simon Constable reports on surging energy prices and diesel shortages in France caused by the Iran war. He addresses global inflation driven by rising shipping costs and the UK’s struggle to provide naval support.,,, (6)6. Guest Simon Constable examines the political unpopularity of Prime Minister Starmer and the debate over King Charles’s U.S. visit. Constable argues the monarch must proceed to maintain essential diplomatic ties despite ongoing regional wartime tensions.,, (7)7. Guests Mariam Wahba and Natalie Ecanow discuss the International Union of Muslim Scholars, identifying it as a Muslim Brotherhood-aligned group in Doha. They describe the organization’s strategy of hedging between Iran and Arab states.,,, (8)8. Guests Natalie Ecanow and Mariam Wahba address the IMEC project to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. They emphasize the need for U.S. energy dominance and strategic infrastructure to reduce Iran's ability to leverage global trade routes.,, (9)9. Guest Michael Bernstam details how Russia benefits from the Iran war, earning $150 million extra daily as oil prices soar. He explains that lifting sanctions on the shadow fleet significantly strengthens Putin’s wartime budget.,, (10)10. Guest Michael Bernstam analyzes the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a narrow choke point currently controlled by Iran. He warns of a massive shipping traffic jam that will cause prolonged high energy prices.,, (11)11. Guest Sinan Ciddi explains Turkey’s deployment of NATO Patriot systems after Iranian missile provocations. Turkey seeks to stay out of the war, preferring a weakened but stable Iranian regime to prevent regional Kurdish uprisings.,,, (12)12. Guest Cliff May defines Iranian interference in the Strait of Hormuz as an act of international piracy. He urges U.S. action to guarantee freedom of navigation, comparing the threat to historical North African pirate states.,,, (13)13. Guest Peter Berkowitz discusses the book "Mobilize," which advocates for rebooting the American industrial base. He critiques central planning and argues the U.S. must leverage private-sector entrepreneurial innovation to counter the Chinese Communist Party.,, (14)14. Guest Peter Berkowitz outlines reforms for the Department of Defense, including cutting bureaucratic red tape and encouraging technological competition. He stresses the importance of higher education in teaching the free-market principles necessary for national security.,, (15)15. Guest Bob Zimmerman reports on the private space industry, highlighting SpaceX’s flight records and plans for orbital AI data centers. He also discusses startups in South Korea and Germany facing technical challenges during their launches.,,, (16)16. Guest Bob Zimmerman explores archival space data on Uranus’s moons and the upcoming Apophis asteroid mission. He highlights the "Mothra" telescope in Chile as a prime example of private enterprise funding successful scientific exploration projects.,, (17)SHOW SCHEDULE 3-18

16. Guest Bob Zimmerman explores archival space data on Uranus’s moons and the upcoming Apophis asteroid mission. He highlights the "Mothra" telescope in Chile as a prime example of private enterprise funding successful scientific exploration projects.,, (17)

15. Guest Bob Zimmerman reports on the private space industry, highlighting SpaceX’s flight records and plans for orbital AI data centers. He also discusses startups in South Korea and Germany facing technical challenges during their launches.,,, (16)

14. Guest Peter Berkowitz outlines reforms for the Department of Defense, including cutting bureaucratic red tape and encouraging technological competition. He stresses the importance of higher education in teaching the free-market principles necessary for national security.,, (15)1943

13. Guest Peter Berkowitz discusses the book "Mobilize," which advocates for rebooting the American industrial base. He critiques central planning and argues the U.S. must leverage private-sector entrepreneurial innovation to counter the ChineseCommunist Party.,, (14)1943 PA SECTION

12. Guest Cliff May defines Iranianinterference in the Strait of Hormuz as an act of international piracy. He urges U.S. action to guarantee freedom of navigation, comparing the threat to historical North African pirate states.,,, (13)1943 PA SECTION

11. Guest Sinan Ciddi explains Turkey’s deployment of NATO Patriot systems after Iranian missile provocations. Turkey seeks to stay out of the war, preferring a weakened but stable Iranian regime to prevent regional Kurdish uprisings.,,, (12)1943 PA SECTION

10. Guest Michael Bernstam analyzes the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a narrow choke point currently controlled by Iran. He warns of a massive shipping traffic jam that will cause prolonged high energy prices.,, (11)1943 PA SECTION

9. Guest Michael Bernstam details how Russia benefits from the Iran war, earning $150 million extra daily as oil prices soar. He explains that lifting sanctions on the shadow fleet significantly strengthens Putin’s wartime budget.,, (10)1943 PENNSYLVANIA SECTION OF THE TEXAS PIPELINE

8. Guests Mariam Wahba and Natalie Ecanow address threats to the Strait of Hormuz by Iran. They emphasize the need for U.S. energy dominance and the role of the National Energy Dominance Council. (9)2010 DOHA

7. Guests Mariam Wahba and Natalie Ecanow discuss the International Union of Muslim Scholars, identifying it as a Muslim Brotherhood-aligned group. They describe the organization’s strategy of hedging between Iran and Arab states. (8)JANUARY 1904 DOHS QATAR

6. Guest Simon Constable examines the political unpopularity of UK leadership and the debate over King Charles'supcoming U.S. visit. Constable argues the monarch should proceed to maintain diplomatic relations despite wartime tensions. (7)1940 TEXAS

5. Guest Simon Constable reports on surging energy prices and diesel shortages in France. He addresses global inflation driven by shipping costs and the UK’s struggle to deploy naval support during the Iran war. (6)1929 TEXAS

4. Guests Gordon Chang and Charles Burton discuss potential U.S.-China trade truces. Burton expresses skepticism regarding China’s reliability in fulfilling commitments and highlights the "elite capture" of Canadian leadership by Beijing. (5)1920 TEXAS

3. Guest Charles Burton critiques Canada’s decision to import Chinese electric vehicles in exchange for tariff reductions. He warns of Chinese influence operations, security risks, and Canada's misguided shift toward economic dependence on Beijing. (4)1920 TEXAS

2. Guest Captain James Fanell analyzes China’s new AR2000 shipborne drone, describing it as a propaganda tool and signaling maneuver. He compares it to retired U.S. technology, noting potential operational difficulties for China. (3)1903 TEXAS

1. Guests Gordon Chang and Steve Yatesdiscuss the postponement of the Trump-Xi summit. They examine Chinesenegotiation tactics that prioritize theater over substance and Xi’s belief in the inevitable rise of China. (2)1903 TEXAS

Preview for later. Sinan Ciddi discusses Turkey's strategic hedging in the Iran war. Erdogan prefers the Iranian regime's survival to prevent regional instability, mass migration, and domestic democratic pressure while continuing support for Hamasproxies. (2)1935 ANKARA

Preview for later. Captain James Fanellcompares the PLA Navy to the US Navy. While expanding, China’s fleet lacks the operational capacity for sustained bombing campaigns compared to American carriers active in the Middle East. (6)1898 DEWEY'S FLAGSHIP OLYMPIA

Preview for later. Mariam Wahba analyzes the Muslim Brotherhood’s hedging strategy. By condemning both Iran and the US-Israelcoalition, the group seeks to win Arab hearts and minds by portraying itself as a regional defender. (8)1904 DOHA

Preview for later. Bob Zimmerman explains why the town of Starbase, Texas, may cancel its upcoming elections. With no challengers appearing for the incumbent SpaceX-affiliated officials, Texas law allows for the cancellation of uncontested races. (12)1938

Preview for later today. Simon Constable reports from France on skyrocketing energy prices fueled by the Iran war. With Brent crude up 50% and electricity soaring, diesel shortages and economic strain are looming for farmers. (2)1925

Preview for later today. Steve Yates discusses the postponement of President Trump’s summit with Xi Jinping in Beijing. Security concerns and military operations in the Middle East have delayed the meeting until later this year. (4)1903

STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW 3-17-2026.1707 PERSIAN GULFThis transcript from The John Batchelor Show features a detailed discussion between host John Batchelor and guests ThaddEus McCotter and David Shedd regarding escalating global instability. The participants analyze the military and economic ramifications of the conflict in Iran, specifically focusing on the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on global oil prices and food supplies. A significant portion of the conversation examines the Trump administration's strategic response, noting the challenges of securing international cooperation and the political pressures of the upcoming midterm elections. Additionally, the dialogue transitions to China's systematic campaign of industrial espionage, as detailed in Shedd’s book, The Great Heist. The experts warn that Chinese state-sponsored theftextends beyond military secrets to include commercial data in sectors like food delivery and robotics. Ultimately, the sources portray a world where unrestricted mercantilism and geopolitical warfare threaten the stability of the American economy and international trade.

SHOW SCHEDULE 3-17-26 ST PATRICK'S DAY1950 STORK CLUB, HITCHCOCK AND LAMOUR1. Guest Elizabeth Peak analyzes how $105 oil impacts global inflation and the resilient U.S. economy. Despite war, AI investment persists. John Bachelor concludes by describing a "creepy," personalized interaction with AI assistant Claude. (1)2. Guest Elizabeth Peak highlights strong public support for Trump’s Iranian strikes despite Democratic opposition. She criticizes the DHS shutdown for causing travel chaos and notes that midterm elections will focus on affordability and conflict. (2)3. Guest David Shed details China’s global campaign of economic espionage and secret-stealing. Using Brazilian food delivery as a case study, he explains how the PRC leverages data and predatory acquisitions to dominate international markets. (3)4. Guest David Shed recommends that President Trump confront Xi Jinping over economic espionage and cyberattacks during their summit. He emphasizes strengthening ties with India and the Quad to counter China’s slowing global economic influence. (4)5. Guest Mary Kissel discusses potential government transitions in Cuba following severe U.S. economic pressure and power grid failures. She notes a broader rightward political shift in South America, including Argentina and ready Venezuelan opposition. (5)6. Guest Mary Kissel evaluates the ongoing conflicts in Tehran and Beirut, noting the "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" to weaken Iranian proxies. Priorities include destroying nuclear capacity, opening the Strait of Hormuz, and managing rising fuel costs. (6)7. Guest Jonathan Schanzer discusses the killing of Iranian leader Ali Larijani and the degradation of Iran’s missile production. He analyzes the closed Strait of Hormuz and the potential for the Iranian people to revolt. (7)8. Guest Jonathan Schanzer details the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah following ceasefire violations. Israel aims to destroy Hezbollah's arsenal while navigating regional dynamics, including opposition from Turkey and quiet support from Gulf nations. (8)Here are the 35-word summaries for the guests featured in segments 9 through 16: (9)SEG 9: Joseph Sternberg Joseph Sternberg, a Wall Street Journal editorial board member, analyzes the stalling of European right-wing populism. He observes voters in the UK, Germany, and Hungary rejecting insurgent parties in favor of moderate, centrist leadership movements. (10)SEG 10: Joseph Sternberg Joseph Sternberg examines UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s record unpopularity. He attributes this to economic pessimism, perceived political haplessness, and the Labour Party’s internal struggle to define its ideological direction between the center and left. (11)SEG 11: Conrad Black Biographer Conrad Black details Canada’s immense chromium deposits in the "Ring of Fire." He highlights its strategic value for stainless steel production and US national security, potentially ending reliance on several unreliable foreign minerals sources. (12)SEG 12: Charles Burton Charles Burton, Sinopsis expert, discusses the complex US-China trade dynamic. He examines Xi Jinping’s ritualistic goals, potential concessions regarding Taiwan, and Canada’s efforts to balance its economic interests and natural resources amidst these ongoing tensions. (13)SEG 13: Grant Newsham evaluates Japan’s new hawkish Prime Minister, Takaichi Sai. He argues Japan must accept military risks in the Strait of Hormuz to solidify future American support against the growing threats from mainland China now. (14)SEG 14: :Grant Newsham discusses South Korea’s reluctance to assist in the Strait of Hormuz. He characterizes the current administration as ideologically pro-China and skeptical of US alliances, potentially undermining regional security cooperation against common global threats. (15)SEG 15: Craig Unger Journalist Craig Unger reviews the House Oversight Committee’s investigation into Donald Trump’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein. He examines subpoenas regarding missing documents and investigates long-standing allegations of sexual misconduct and many "catch and kill" patterns. (16)SEG 16: Craig Unger Craig Unger explores the legal and political consequences of the Epstein investigation. He notes growing Republican dissent and argues that while presidential immunity complicates immediate prosecution, these allegations could significantly impact the upcoming national elections. (17)

SEG 16: Craig Unger explores the legal and political consequences of the Epstein investigation. He notes growing Republican dissent and argues that while presidential immunity complicates immediate prosecution, these allegations could significantly impact the upcoming national elections. (17)1863 DRAFT RIOTS

SEG 15: Craig Unger Journalist Craig Unger reviews the House Oversight Committee’s investigation into Donald Trump’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein. He examines subpoenas regarding missing documents and investigates long-standing allegations of sexual misconduct and many "catch and kill" patterns. (16)1963 DRAFT RIOTS

SEG 14: Grant Newsham discusses South Korea’s reluctance to assist in the Strait of Hormuz. He characterizes the current administration as ideologically pro-China and skeptical of US alliances, potentially undermining regional security cooperation against common global threats. (15)1950 Korea

SEG 13: Grant Newsham evaluates Japan’s new hawkish Prime Minister, Takaichi Sai. He argues Japanmust accept military risks in the Strait of Hormuz to solidify future Americansupport against the growing threats from mainland China now. (14)1937 Shanghai, Japanese fladship

SEG 12: Charles Burton Charles Burton, Sinopsis expert, discusses the complex US-China trade dynamic. He examines Xi Jinping’s ritualistic goals, potential concessions regarding Taiwan, and Canada’s efforts to balance its economic interests and natural resources amidst these ongoing tensions. (13)1910 ONTARIO

SEG 11: Conrad Black Biographer Conrad Black details Canada’s immense chromium deposits in the "Ring of Fire." He highlights its strategic value for stainless steel production and US national security, potentially ending reliance on several unreliable foreign minerals sources. (12)1903 CANADA

SEG 10: Joseph Sternberg Joseph Sternberg examines UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s record unpopularity. He attributes this to economic pessimism, perceived political haplessness, and the Labour Party’s internal struggle to define its ideological direction between the center and left. (11)1808 BANK OF ENGLAND

SEG 9: Joseph Sternberg Joseph Sternberg, a Wall Street Journal editorial board member, analyzes the stalling of European right-wing populism. He observes voters in the UK, Germany, and Hungary rejecting insurgent parties in favor of moderate, centrist leadership movements. (10)1772 LONDON

8. Guest Jonathan Schanzer details the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah following ceasefire violations. Israel aims to destroy Hezbollah's arsenal while navigating regional dynamics, including opposition from Turkey and quiet support from Gulf nations. (8)1688

7. Guest Jonathan Schanzer discusses the killing of Iranian leader Ali Larijani and the degradation of Iran’s missile production. He analyzes the closed Strait of Hormuz and the potential for the Iranian people to revolt. (7)1680

6. Guest Mary Kissel evaluates the ongoing conflicts in Tehran and Beirut, noting the "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" to weaken Iranian proxies. Priorities include destroying nuclear capacity, opening the Strait of Hormuz, and managing rising fuel costs. (6)1648

5. Guest Mary Kissel discusses potential government transitions in Cuba following severe U.S. economic pressure and power grid failures. She notes a broader rightward political shift in South America, including Argentina and ready Venezuelan opposition. (5)

4. Guest David Shed recommends that President Trump confront Xi Jinpingover economic espionage and cyberattacks during their summit. He emphasizes strengthening ties with India and the Quad to counter China’s slowing global economic influence. (4)C1793

3. Guest David Shed details China’s global campaign of economic espionage and secret-stealing. Using Brazilian food delivery as a case study, he explains how the PRC leverages data and predatory acquisitions to dominate international markets. (3)1650

2. Guest Elizabeth Peak highlights strong public support for Trump’s Iranian strikes despite Democratic opposition. She criticizes the DHS shutdown for causing travel chaos and notes that midterm elections will focus on affordability and conflict. (2)1572 HORMUZ

1. Guest Elizabeth Peak analyzes how $105 oil impacts global inflation and the resilient U.S. economy. Despite war, AIinvestment persists. John Bachelor concludes by describing a "creepy," personalized interaction with AI assistant Claude. (1)1519 PERSIAN GULF

PREVIEW FOR LATER TONIGHT: Joseph Sternberg. Joseph Sternberg outlines the growing sense of haplessness surrounding UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Faced with a stagnant economy, political scandals, and confused foreign policy, Starmer struggles to appear in charge of events. (6)1901 COMMMONS

PREVIEW FOR LATER TONIGHT: Liz Peek. Liz Peek analyzes the "Magnificent Seven" tech stocks and the impact of rising energy costs on the AI sector. Despite market corrections and global turmoil, she finds that AI demand remains a powerful trend. (5)MAY 1953

PREVIEW FOR LATER TONIGHT: Grant Newsham. Grant Newsham urges Japanto take a meaningful military risk by helping the U.S. secure the Strait of Hormuz. He argues that "sticking their necks out" is vital for the alliance's future success overall. (4)1781

PREVIEW FOR LATER TONIGHT: Mary Kissel. Mary Kissel comments on the agonizingly slow transformation of Venezuela from a narco-terrorist dictatorship into a democracy. She explores potential reasons behind the stagnant pace of political change within this South American nation currently. (3)1952 CARACAS

PREVIEW FOR LATER TONIGHT: Charles Burton. Charles Burton explores Canada’s vast rare earth resources and the extraction challenges. He examines whether Canada will allow U.S. investment to end the dangerous practice of sending these minerals to China for processing. (2)1910 ORDER OF THE DAUGHTERS OF THE EMPIRE

PREVIEW FOR LATER TONIGHT: Conrad Black. Conrad Black discusses Ontario’s massive chromium deposits, which could supply the world for a century. Developing these reserves with the U.S. would secure stainless steel production and reduce reliance on Chinaand rivals. (1)1900 ST LAWRENCE AND ITS BASIN