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The John Batchelor Show

John Batchelor Show.

The John Batchelor Show is a hard news-analysis radio program on current events, world history, global politics and natural sciences. Based in New York City for two decades, the show has travelled widely to report, from the Middle East to the South Caucasus to the Arabian Peninsula and East Asia.

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S8 · E1221
August 9 · 38 min
S8 Ep1221: Sebastian Smee, Part Two: The narrative follows the 1871 Paris Commune and "Bloody Week," where civil war left the city in ruins. Amidst this trauma, Berthe Morisot resolved to become a professional artist, developing a radical style focused on domesticit
Sebastian Smee, Part Two: The narrative follows the 1871 Paris Commune and "Bloody Week," where civil war left the city in ruins. Amidst this trauma, Berthe Morisot resolved to become a professional artist, developing a radical style focused on domesticity and the "fugitive effects" of light. Smee details the technical shift to "en plein air" painting, prioritizing direct observation over traditional studio structure. The personal saga concludes with Morisot's marriage to Manet's brother and her legacy as a pioneer of the movement. Ultimately, Impressionism is defined as an art of transience, capturing fleeting beauty within a fragile society. (2)
S8 · E1221
August 9 · 37 min
S8 Ep1221: Sebastian Smee, author of Paris in Ruins: Love, War, and the Birth of Impressionism, Part One: In 1874, artists staged a revolutionary independent exhibition in Paris, marking the birth of Impressionism. Smee explores how painters like Monet and Morisot r
Sebastian Smee, author of Paris in Ruins: Love, War, and the Birth of Impressionism, Part One: In 1874, artists staged a revolutionary independent exhibition in Paris, marking the birth of Impressionism. Smee explores how painters like Monet and Morisot revolted against the rigid Salon hierarchy, seeking to capture contemporary life and light rather than mythology. The movement's name originated from a critic's insult regarding Monet's Impression, Sunrise. Central to the narrative is Édouard Manet, a passionate Republican whose loathing of Napoleon III influenced his peers. The story details the intimate bond between Manet and Berthe Morisot before the catastrophic Franco-Prussian War and the 1870 siege of Paris devastated the nation. (1)
S8 · E1220
August 8 · 9 min
S8 Ep1220: SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-7-2026. Kevin Frazier addresses the growing misinformation surrounding data centers, particularly in rural America where they are often viewed as threats to water and power.
SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-7-2026. Kevin Frazier addresses the growing misinformation surrounding data centers, particularly in rural America where they are often viewed as threats to water and power. He argues that these facilities provide massive tax base contributions and high-paying construction jobs, yet are often rejected by the communities that need them most. Frazier highlights New York's moratorium on large data centers as a counterproductive move that pushes infrastructure to less suitable locations. He proposes a "cap and trade" system to prevent states from free-riding on the national digital infrastructure. Comparing data centers to the interstate highway system, Frazier emphasizes that the physical "cloud" is essential for the modern economy. He calls for Congressional action to codify a "ratepayer protection pledge," ensuring that tech companies, rather than consumers, bear the costs of grid upgrades. (8)
S8 · E1219
August 8 · 19 min
S8 Ep1219: Kevin Frazier addresses the growing misinformation surrounding data centers, particularly in rural America where they are often viewed as threats to water and power. He argues that these facilities provide massive tax base contributions and high-paying co
Kevin Frazier addresses the growing misinformation surrounding data centers, particularly in rural America where they are often viewed as threats to water and power. He argues that these facilities provide massive tax base contributions and high-paying construction jobs, yet are often rejected by the communities that need them most. Frazier highlights New York's moratorium on large data centers as a counterproductive move that pushes infrastructure to less suitable locations. He proposes a "cap and trade" system to prevent states from free-riding on the national digital infrastructure. Comparing data centers to the interstate highway system, Frazier emphasizes that the physical "cloud" is essential for the modern economy. He calls for Congressional action to codify a "ratepayer protection pledge," ensuring that tech companies, rather than consumers, bear the costs of grid upgrades. (8)
S8 · E1218
August 8 · 17 min
S8 Ep1218: Henry Sokolski discusses the stalled nuclear cooperative agreement between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, noting that the lack of enrichment restrictions has left the deal in limbo. He explains that a new condominium between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan
Henry Sokolski discusses the stalled nuclear cooperative agreement between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, noting that the lack of enrichment restrictions has left the deal in limbo. He explains that a new condominium between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan is designed to counter Iran and Israel, making the Abraham Accords seem "delusional." Sokolski also reflects on the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, noting that Japan's new leadership is considering a review of its non-nuclear principles. Furthermore, he reports on a Chinese study simulating the use of nuclear warheads to intercept asteroids, which he interprets as a potential cover for placing weapons in space. The conversation ends with a discussion on the need for increased drone regulations at critical facilities like Vandenberg Space Force Base following an incident involving an unregistered drone and a foreign national. (7)
S8 · E1218
August 8 · 37 min
S8 Ep1218: Harry Sidebottom explores the world of Roman gladiators, describing the Colosseum as a building that reinforced social hierarchy through strictly assigned seating. The day's events began with a stylized procession representing Roman dominance over nature
Harry Sidebottom explores the world of Roman gladiators, describing the Colosseum as a building that reinforced social hierarchy through strictly assigned seating. The day's events began with a stylized procession representing Roman dominance over nature and foreign lands. Sidebottom highlights Emperor Commodus, who was genuinely obsessed with fighting in the arena, a choice that earned him animosity from the Senate. The schedule included beast hunts in the morning and gruesome midday executions of criminals, which were often staged as mythological plays. While some scholars view the martyrdom of Christians like Perpetua as literary propaganda, Sidebottom details the intense physical strain and strict rules enforced by referees during paired combat. The gladiatorial games eventually disappeared in the fifth century as the cultural and moral outlook of Rome shifted. (6)
S8 · E1217
August 8 · 19 min
S8 Ep1217: Bob Zimmerman highlights several developments in space, starting with the startup Catalyst's daring mission to rescue the decaying Swift space telescope. Despite thruster failures, engineers are attempting to use the remaining hardware to move the telesco
Bob Zimmerman highlights several developments in space, starting with the startup Catalyst's daring mission to rescue the decaying Swift space telescope. Despite thruster failures, engineers are attempting to use the remaining hardware to move the telescope's orbit. Zimmerman also discusses a Falcon 9 upper stage that impacted the moon, providing valuable spectroscopic data. Good news arrives from Voyager 2, which underwent a "big bang" power reconfiguration to extend its life to at least 2027. On Pluto, new analysis of Sputnik Planitia suggests the planet is geologically active, featuring melting nitrogen underneath its frozen surface. Regarding corporate updates, Blue Origin has identified an oxygen valve failure as the cause of a recent engine explosion, while SpaceX prepares for an orbital Starship flight this month. Finally, Zimmerman reviews the struggles of commercial spaceports in New Zealand and the UK. (5)
S8 · E1217
August 8 · 9 min
S8 Ep1217: Lorenzo Fiori guides listeners through the Piedmont region, focusing on Vercelli and Vigevano, areas famous for rice production but currently suffering from a severe drought. He reports that a massive "heat dome" sitting over Europe has pushed temperature
Lorenzo Fiori guides listeners through the Piedmont region, focusing on Vercelli and Vigevano, areas famous for rice production but currently suffering from a severe drought. He reports that a massive "heat dome" sitting over Europe has pushed temperatures to 48°C in Naples, threatening harvests and leading to water shortages in many northern Italianvillages. Despite these challenges, Fiori highlights the historical beauty of Vercelli's cathedral and Vigevano's Renaissance architecture, including the Castello Sforzesco. He concludes with a culinary lesson on preparing Panissa, a traditional rice and red bean dish featuring fresh sausage. To accompany this meal, he recommends Gattinara, a light red wine typical of the Vercelli area. The segment emphasizes the strategic location of these towns near Milan and the importance of supporting tourism away from overcrowded hubs. (4)
S8 · E1216
August 8 · 8 min
S8 Ep1216: Jim McTague analyzes the July jobs report, which unexpectedly showed a loss of 23,000 jobs, signaling a cutback in spending by those "with little." He describes a "K-shaped economy" where the wealthy continue to spend while others struggle with high gas p
Jim McTague analyzes the July jobs report, which unexpectedly showed a loss of 23,000 jobs, signaling a cutback in spending by those "with little." He describes a "K-shaped economy" where the wealthy continue to spend while others struggle with high gas prices and inflation. In Lancaster County, the economy remains uneven; while tourism and manufacturing are strong, hiring for non-specialists is weak. The property market is particularly discouraging for buyers, with low inventory driving prices toward one million dollars for decent homes. McTague observes local economic health through visits to Costco and Olive Garden, noting that despite high traffic, people are increasingly discount-conscious. He also mentions the high-security development of a new data center, which is expected to contribute significantly to the local tax base through 2028. (3)
S8 · E1216
August 8 · 19 min
S8 Ep1216: Richard Epstein critiques the contempt of Congress referral against Dr. Anthony Fauci, arguing Fauci made "egregious mistakes" regarding pandemic regulations like masking and social distancing. Epstein contends Fauci was a "lousy scientist" who suppressed
Richard Epstein critiques the contempt of Congress referral against Dr. Anthony Fauci, arguing Fauci made "egregious mistakes" regarding pandemic regulations like masking and social distancing. Epstein contends Fauci was a "lousy scientist" who suppressed alternative treatments like hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin. He also questions the validity of a "preemptive pardon" issued by President Biden, suggesting it may relate to illegal virus shipments to the Wuhanlaboratory. Moving to politics, Epstein lambasts the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) for their goal of dismantling the U.S. government and their admiration for failed states like Venezuela. He highlights the impracticality of Zohran Mamdani's programs in New York, such as rent stabilization and subsidized grocery stores, predicting they will eventually crater due to economic reality. (2)
S8 · E1215
August 8 · 17 min
S8 Ep1215: Jeff Bliss begins with the Super El Niño building in the Pacific, reaching record-high temperatures that promise severe drought and wildfires for California, a state currently unprepared for these atmospheric changes. In Seattle, Mayor Wilson recently fir
Jeff Bliss begins with the Super El Niño building in the Pacific, reaching record-high temperatures that promise severe drought and wildfires for California, a state currently unprepared for these atmospheric changes. In Seattle, Mayor Wilson recently fired the police chief following a shooting catastrophe, revealing the chief lived in Chicago and was absent during major incidents. The segment explores Seattle's history of "police-free" zones and the Democratic Socialists of America's platform, which now advocates for dismantling the US government into a unicameral legislature. The report shifts to Idaho, where a tragic shooting at an In-N-Out restaurant resulted in casualties and raised community concerns. In Los Angeles, a massive cleanup of a rotting meat locker in East LA has created toxic air conditions, while residents fight against the facility's rebuild. Bliss describes the "homeless industrial complex" in Santa Monica, highlighting multi-story cardboard shelters that reach up to five stories high. Finally, the file covers Governor Gavin Newsom's presidential aspirations and public frustration over his incomplete tax returns, which showed a $2 million annual income. (1)
S8 · E1214
August 7 · 7 min
S8 Ep1214: **Anatol Lieven** reports the conflict in **Ukraine** has devolved into a war of infrastructure, with Ukraine targeting **Russian** retail warehouses while **Russia** destroys Ukrainian road transport and blocks the port of **Odesa**. Lieven expresses skR
C Lieven expresses skepticism regarding Russian influence in German elections, noting that the Alternative for Germany (AfD) is genuinely popular due to anti-immigration stances and skepticism toward funding Ukraine. Meanwhile, the UK faces budget constraints that hinder promised military spending increases. A migration crisis involving thousands of people attempting to enter EU territory from Morocco has triggered emergency meetings. Nationalist parties in Europe may move toward total immigration bans to satisfy their core supporters. (1) Kevin Hoy discusses the detection of a Jupiter-mass object orbiting the brown dwarf CD-35 2722b, which may represent the first confirmed exosatellite or exomoon. Using the radial velocity method, researchers identified a "wobble" in the spectrum of the brown dwarf, indicating a secondary body in a highly eccentric 170-day orbit. This discovery is a significant milestone for astrophysics, as it helps scientists understand planetary formation processes outside our solar system. Hoy explains that such objects are difficult to find because technology is often limited by the brightness and proximity of host stars. Future mapping of nearby systems could involve high-power radar technology. (2) Evan Ellis explores the landscape of Uruguay, a stable country navigating the trade interests of its neighbors, Brazil and Argentina. The discussion shifts to Colombia's newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella, whose inauguration in a high-security zone signals a pivot toward closer alignment with the United States. Ellis also addresses the complex situation in Venezuela, where the U.S. is negotiating with the relatively unknown Dinorah Figuera rather than more prominent opposition figures. Regional stability is further threatened by an explosion of homicides in Uruguay and the presence of millions of Venezuelan refugees in Colombia. (3) Bradley Bowman warns of the unprecedented military cooperation between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, documented in 616 instances of security collaboration. Russia has transferred advanced technology, such as Su-35 fighters and submarine quieting techniques, to China to secure support for its war in Ukraine. Simultaneously, Iran provides drones and targeting data to help Russia strike Ukrainian targets and U.S. forces in the Middle East. North Korea has supplied thousands of soldiers and munitions to the European front. Bowman emphasizes that the U.S. defense industrial base is currently a shadow of its World War II capacity. (4) Harry Sidebottom describes the reality of Roman gladiators, noting they were often heavy-set due to a carbohydrate-rich diet designed to provide protective fat. These fighters were glamorous figures who enacted Roman virtues of courage and physical strength for the public. While many were slaves or prisoners, others were free men who volunteered to escape grinding poverty. Most gladiators fought only once or twice a year, with a survival rate of roughly seven in eight. The segment also notes a rare historical instance where a Roman audience felt sympathy for elephants being massacred in the arena. (5) Peter Berkowitz analyzes the work of Professor Patrick Deneen, who argues that liberal democracy is a "curse" that has atomized American society. Deneen presents contradictory accounts of whether liberalism was a founding principle or a 20th-century imposition. He advocates for a "regime change" toward a pre-liberal order that prioritizes biblical faith and classical virtue over individual rights. Berkowitz notes that Deneen's ideas have influenced figures like Vice President JD Vance, who has publicly endorsed Deneen's work. The critique suggests that Machiavellian means and state coercion may be necessary to restore a Christian foundation to the nation. (6) Jack Burnham explains the FCC's efforts to prohibit military-grade, foreign-produced drones, specifically targeting Chinese firms like DJI due to security concerns. These "dual-use" systems are defined by their ability to carry heavy loads and utilize advanced sensor arrays. A significant security gap exists because critical infrastructure like power grids and hospitals lacks the same protections afforded to airports and military bases. Burnham cites a 2024 arrest of a man flying an unregistered drone over Vandenberg Space Force Base in California as evidence of the threat. The Trumpadministration has issued executive orders to secure American airspace from unidentified objects. (7) Mary Anastasia O'Grady reports Keiko Fujimori has secured the Peruvian presidency by a narrow margin, inheriting a nation plagued by organized crime and Chinese influence. Fujimori faces an immediate crisis with the expected arrival of El Niño in September, which threatens the fishing industry and may cause floods. Transnational criminal organizations involved in extortion and illegal mining present a strategic threat to property rights and small businesses. Additionally, China's construction of the Chancay port and heavy mining investments have granted Beijing significant political leverage. Fujimori must now balance these economic realities while attempting to restore the rule of law. (8) Corrections applied: Mary Anastasia O'Grady as directed; Abelardo de la Espriella (transcribed as "Delospria," segment 3 — matching prior batches); and Patrick Deneen (transcribed as "Denine," segment 6 — the Notre Dame political theorist). One to flag: Kevin Hoy (segment 2) — I couldn't verify this astronomer's name, and the brown dwarf designation (rendered as "CD352722b," which I've set as CD-35 2722b) suggests the transcription may be rough. Worth checking against the booking sheet.
S8 · E1213
August 7 · 8 min
S8 Ep1213: Mary Anastasia O'Grady reports Keiko Fujimori has secured the Peruvian presidency by a narrow margin, inheriting a nation plagued by organized crime and Chinese influence. Fujimori faces an immediate crisis with the expected arrival of El Niño in Septembe
Mary Anastasia O'Grady reports Keiko Fujimori has secured the Peruvian presidency by a narrow margin, inheriting a nation plagued by organized crime and Chinese influence. Fujimori faces an immediate crisis with the expected arrival of El Niño in September, which threatens the fishing industry and may cause floods. Transnational criminal organizations involved in extortion and illegal mining present a strategic threat to property rights and small businesses. Additionally, China's construction of the Chancay port and heavy mining investments have granted Beijing significant political leverage. Fujimori must now balance these economic realities while attempting to restore the rule of law. (8)
S8 · E1212
August 7 · 10 min
S8 Ep1212: Jack Burnham explains the FCC's efforts to prohibit military-grade, foreign-produced drones, specifically targeting Chinese firms like DJI due to security concerns. These "dual-use" systems are defined by their ability to carry heavy loads and utilize adv
Jack Burnham explains the FCC's efforts to prohibit military-grade, foreign-produced drones, specifically targeting Chinese firms like DJI due to security concerns. These "dual-use" systems are defined by their ability to carry heavy loads and utilize advanced sensor arrays. A significant security gap exists because critical infrastructure like power grids and hospitals lacks the same protections afforded to airports and military bases. Burnham cites a 2024 arrest of a man flying an unregistered drone over Vandenberg Space Force Base in California as evidence of the threat. The Trumpadministration has issued executive orders to secure American airspace from unidentified objects. (7)
S8 · E1211
August 7 · 17 min
S8 Ep1211: Peter Berkowitz analyzes the work of Professor Patrick Deneen, who argues that liberal democracy is a "curse" that has atomized American society. Deneen presents contradictory accounts of whether liberalism was a founding principle or a 20th-century impos
Peter Berkowitz analyzes the work of Professor Patrick Deneen, who argues that liberal democracy is a "curse" that has atomized American society. Deneen presents contradictory accounts of whether liberalism was a founding principle or a 20th-century imposition. He advocates for a "regime change" toward a pre-liberal order that prioritizes biblical faith and classical virtue over individual rights. Berkowitz notes that Deneen's ideas have influenced figures like Vice President JD Vance, who has publicly endorsed Deneen's work. The critique suggests that Machiavellian means and state coercion may be necessary to restore a Christian foundation to the nation. (6)
S8 · E1210
August 7 · 37 min
S8 Ep1210: Harry Sidebottom describes the reality of Roman gladiators, noting they were often heavy-set due to a carbohydrate-rich diet designed to provide protective fat. These fighters were glamorous figures who enacted Roman virtues of courage and physical streng
Harry Sidebottom describes the reality of Roman gladiators, noting they were often heavy-set due to a carbohydrate-rich diet designed to provide protective fat. These fighters were glamorous figures who enacted Roman virtues of courage and physical strength for the public. While many were slaves or prisoners, others were free men who volunteered to escape grinding poverty. Most gladiators fought only once or twice a year, with a survival rate of roughly seven in eight. The segment also notes a rare historical instance where a Roman audience felt sympathy for elephants being massacred in the arena. (5)
S8 · E1209
August 7 · 19 min
S8 Ep1209: Bradley Bowman warns of the unprecedented military cooperation between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, documented in 616 instances of security collaboration. Russia has transferred advanced technology, such as Su-35 fighters and submarine quieting t
Bradley Bowman warns of the unprecedented military cooperation between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, documented in 616 instances of security collaboration. Russia has transferred advanced technology, such as Su-35 fighters and submarine quieting techniques, to China to secure support for its war in Ukraine. Simultaneously, Iran provides drones and targeting data to help Russia strike Ukrainian targets and U.S. forces in the Middle East. North Korea has supplied thousands of soldiers and munitions to the European front. Bowman emphasizes that the U.S. defense industrial base is currently a shadow of its World War II capacity. (4)
S8 · E1208
August 7 · 17 min
S8 Ep1208: Evan Ellis explores the landscape of Uruguay, a stable country navigating the trade interests of its neighbors, Brazil and Argentina. The discussion shifts to Colombia's newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella, whose inauguration in a high-secur
Evan Ellis explores the landscape of Uruguay, a stable country navigating the trade interests of its neighbors, Brazil and Argentina. The discussion shifts to Colombia's newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella, whose inauguration in a high-security zone signals a pivot toward closer alignment with the United States. Ellis also addresses the complex situation in Venezuela, where the U.S. is negotiating with the relatively unknown Dinorah Figuera rather than more prominent opposition figures. Regional stability is further threatened by an explosion of homicides in Uruguay and the presence of millions of Venezuelan refugees in Colombia. (3)
S8 · E1207
August 7 · 19 min
S8 Ep1207: Kevin Hoy discusses the detection of a Jupiter-mass object orbiting the brown dwarf CD-35 2722b, which may represent the first confirmed exosatellite or exomoon. Using the radial velocity method, researchers identified a "wobble" in the spectrum of the br
Kevin Hoy discusses the detection of a Jupiter-mass object orbiting the brown dwarf CD-35 2722b, which may represent the first confirmed exosatellite or exomoon. Using the radial velocity method, researchers identified a "wobble" in the spectrum of the brown dwarf, indicating a secondary body in a highly eccentric 170-day orbit. This discovery is a significant milestone for astrophysics, as it helps scientists understand planetary formation processes outside our solar system. Hoy explains that such objects are difficult to find because technology is often limited by the brightness and proximity of host stars. Future mapping of nearby systems could involve high-power radar technology. (2)
S8 · E1206
August 7 · 17 min
S8 Ep1206: Anatol Lieven reports the conflict in Ukraine has devolved into a war of infrastructure, with Ukraine targeting Russian retail warehouses while Russia destroys Ukrainian road transport and blocks the port of Odesa. Lieven expresses skepticism regarding Ru
Anatol Lieven reports the conflict in Ukraine has devolved into a war of infrastructure, with Ukraine targeting Russianretail warehouses while Russia destroys Ukrainian road transport and blocks the port of Odesa. Lieven expresses skepticism regarding Russian influence in German elections, noting that the Alternative for Germany (AfD) is genuinely popular due to anti-immigration stances and skepticism toward funding Ukraine. Meanwhile, the UK faces budget constraints that hinder promised military spending increases. A migration crisis involving thousands of people attempting to enter EU territory from Morocco has triggered emergency meetings. Nationalist parties in Europe may move toward total immigration bans to satisfy their core supporters. (1) Anatol Lieven reports the conflict in Ukraine has devolved into a war of infrastructure, with Ukraine targeting Russianretail warehouses while Russia destroys Ukrainian road transport and blocks the port of Odesa. Lieven expresses skepticism regarding Russian influence in German elections, noting that the Alternative for Germany (AfD) is genuinely popular due to anti-immigration stances and skepticism toward funding Ukraine. Meanwhile, the UK faces budget constraints that hinder promised military spending increases. A migration crisis involving thousands of people attempting to enter EU territory from Morocco has triggered emergency meetings. Nationalist parties in Europe may move toward total immigration bans to satisfy their core supporters. (1)

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