Breaking Battlegrounds

Breaking Battlegrounds is a Politics Podcast show that interviews opinion leaders from across the world to discuss politics, culture, and policies that are shaping our day-to-day lives. breakingbattlegrounds.substack.com

Dusty Johnson on U.S.-China Trade, Noah Rothman on Political Violence, Chuck Flint Takes on the IRS, and Lou Perez Breaks Down a Shocking Surrogacy Case 05/15/2026

Dusty Johnson on U.S.-China Trade, Noah Rothman on Political Violence, Chuck Flint Takes on the IRS, and Lou Perez Breaks Down a Shocking Surrogacy Case This week on Breaking Battlegrounds, hosts Chuck Warren and Sam Stone are joined by Congressman Dusty Johnson to discuss U.S.-China trade, rare earth minerals, energy policy, gas prices, South Dakota agriculture, data centers, and his campaign for governor. Then, Noah Rothman joins the show to discuss his new book, Blood and Progress: A Century of Left-Wing Violence, and explains why he believes left-wing political violence has often been downplayed, excused, or mischaracterized in American discourse. Next, Chuck Flint, President and CEO of the Alliance for IRS Accountability, breaks down a new national poll on taxpayer concerns, including unrealized gains taxes, IRS asset appraisals, customer service failures, and proposals to reform the agency. Plus, B’s Crime Corner debuts its new jingle and covers the tragic 2007 murders of Channon Christian and Christopher Newsom, along with an update on the Alex Murdaugh case and the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn his conviction. Finally, comedian and commentator Lou Perez joins the program to discuss a disturbing legal case involving a convicted child sex offender who was reportedly able to father a child through surrogacy, raising serious questions about gaps in current laws, parental rights, and child protection. Follow the guests: Congressman Dusty Johnson: @RepDustyJohnson Noah Rothman: @NoahCRothman Chuck Flint: @ChuckAFlint Lou Perez: @LouPerez Tune in to Breaking Battlegrounds, the radio show covering the latest news, politics, culture, crime, and the stories shaping America. Catch Breaking Battlegrounds live on 960 AM in Phoenix every Saturday at 9:00 AM, with full episodes and exclusive podcast-only segments dropping every Friday wherever you get your podcasts or watch on Youtube. Stay connected with Breaking Battlegrounds: • Substack: https://substack.com/@breakingbattlegrounds • Website: https://breakingbattlegrounds.vote • News: https://breakingbattlegrounds.news • X: https://x.com/breaking_battle • Instagram: @breakingbattlegrounds • Facebook: Breaking Battlegrounds /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/41311615

Ilya Shapiro on SCOTUS | Corey DeAngelis Exposes Education Failures | Mark Lamb for Congress 05/08/2026

Ilya Shapiro on SCOTUS | Corey DeAngelis Exposes Education Failures | Mark Lamb for Congress On this episode of Breaking Battlegrounds, Sam Stone and Chuck Warren dive into the biggest legal, education, and border security stories shaping America today. First, Ilya Shapiro of the Manhattan Institute joins the show to break down the Supreme Court’s major 6-3 ruling in Louisiana v. Calais and what it means for race-based redistricting, judicial independence, and the future of constitutional law. The conversation also explores Justice Clarence Thomas’s influence on the Court, upcoming landmark cases involving birthright citizenship and presidential powers, and why public confidence in America’s institutions continues to decline. Follow Ilya Shapiro Here: X: Substack: Check out Ilya’s book “Lawless: The Miseducation of America’s Elites” Then, school choice advocate Corey DeAngelis joins the program to discuss the growing momentum behind education freedom initiatives across the country. Corey explains why even Democrat governors are beginning to embrace school choice programs, examines the ongoing failures of the Chicago Teachers Union, and argues why parents are increasingly rejecting the traditional public school system in favor of alternatives that put students first. Corey A. DeAngelis X: Later, retired Pinal County Sheriff and Arizona Congressional candidate Mark Lamb joins the podcast to discuss the realities of border security from firsthand experience on the front lines. Lamb shares stories about cartel activity, human trafficking, drug smuggling, and the enormous strain illegal immigration has placed on local law enforcement. He also outlines his campaign priorities for Congress, including border security, election integrity, constitutional rights, and restoring accountability in Washington. Mark Lamb X: Website: Plus, in B’s Corner, the hosts revisit the disturbing D4vd and Celeste case as new evidence emerges involving dismemberment, child abuse material, and chilling foreshadowing hidden within music and social media posts. Catch Breaking Battlegrounds live on 960 AM in Phoenix every Saturday at 9:00 AM, with full episodes and exclusive podcast-only segments dropping every Friday wherever you get your podcasts or watch on Youtube. Stay connected with Breaking Battlegrounds: • Substack: https://substack.com/@breakingbattlegrounds • Website: https://breakingbattlegrounds.vote • News: https://breakingbattlegrounds.news • X: https://x.com/breaking_battle • Instagram: @breakingbattlegrounds • Facebook: Breaking Battlegrounds /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/41219635

Mamdani's Manufactured Crisis, World Cup Price Gouging, and Trump's Middle East Revolution 05/01/2026

Mamdani's Manufactured Crisis, World Cup Price Gouging, and Trump's Middle East Revolution This week on Breaking Battlegrounds, Chuck Warren and Sam Stone are joined by Manhattan Institute Cities policy analyst Santiago Vidal Calvo and Washington Free Beacon editor and Middle East Forum junior fellow Alex Welz, plus a special radio edition of B's Corner true crime. Santiago Vidal Calvo Born in Caracas and now leading the Manhattan Institute's Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) efforts, Santiago opens with an on-the-ground report from Venezuela following the capture of Maduro — including the first American Airlines flight back to Caracas in nearly a decade — and explains why Trump must press for elections in Venezuela before the U.S. midterms if his policy is to survive a potential shift in Congress. He walks through how government agencies have weaponized "privacy" exemptions and bureaucratic stonewalling to block public records requests, and why Manhattan Institute is willing to take these fights to court when ordinary citizens cannot. Santiago then breaks down his Daily Wire piece on New Jersey Transit's $150 train ticket from Penn Station to MetLife for the 2026 World Cup — versus a $60 Uber on the same route — and contrasts New Jersey's mismanagement with Kansas City's pro-tourism approach of expanded bar and restaurant hours. In the second segment, he unpacks Mayor Zohran Mamdani's "racial equity plan" and the redefinition of poverty in New York City through a $150,000 "true cost of living" benchmark — which conveniently labels two-thirds of the richest city in America as unable to afford it, justifying a massive expansion of government with 400 new indicators and 600 goals. Santiago argues the real diagnosis isn't race but housing supply, the rent freeze, and the cost of opening a business. Follow Santiago on X: B's Corner B brings the 1981 disappearance and murder of 6-year-old Adam Walsh from a Sears in Hollywood, Florida — a case that took 27 years to officially close, briefly entangled Jeffrey Dahmer as a suspect, and was ultimately tied to serial killer Ottis Toole. Out of unimaginable tragedy, Adam's father John Walsh launched America's Most Wanted, founded the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, and helped drive the creation of the Amber Alert system. The team also revisits the era of the Sears catalog and what that brand once meant to American life. Alex Welz, an editor at the Washington Free Beacon and a junior fellow at the Middle East Forum with a master's in national security from the University of Haifa, walks through the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire, why disarming Hezbollah remains a generational challenge despite UN Resolution 1701 and the Taif Agreement. On Iran, Alex argues the regime turned out far less fragile than Venezuela-style optimists hoped, but ballistic missile capacity, the navy, and oil revenues have all been dramatically degraded, and the latest wave of protests could still force a fold. In the podcast segment, the conversation deepens and Alex shares his prediction for where Iran stands by November 2026. Follow Alex on X: Catch Breaking Battlegrounds live on 960 AM in Phoenix every Saturday at 9:00 AM, with full episodes and exclusive podcast-only segments dropping every Friday wherever you get your podcasts or watch on Youtube. Stay connected with Breaking Battlegrounds: Substack: Website: News: X: Instagram: @breakingbattlegrounds Facebook: Breaking Battlegrounds /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/41122220

Mollie Hemingway on Alito | Andy Biggs for Governor | Bob McClure on Election Reform 04/24/2026

Mollie Hemingway on Alito | Andy Biggs for Governor | Bob McClure on Election Reform This week on Breaking Battlegrounds, we cover everything from Supreme Court power struggles and election reform to the Arizona governor’s race and the policies shaping America’s future. We start with Robert McClure, President and CEO of the The James Madison Institute, who breaks down Florida’s rising property taxes and the reforms being considered to rein in local government spending, including homestead exemptions, levy caps, and truth-in-taxation laws. He also discusses a proposal requiring 50% voter turnout for tax increases, the impact of Florida’s SAVE Act on voter ID and election integrity, and how school choice policies are expanding opportunity while improving public education outcomes. You can follow Dr. McClure on X at and learn more about his work at . We’re then joined in-studio by Andy Biggs, who is running for Governor of Arizona. Congressman Biggs discusses his campaign, Arizona’s growing affordability challenges, water and resource concerns, and the need for accountability in government. He also weighs in on the recent Southern Poverty Law Center controversy, student debt policy, and what reforms he believes are needed to get the state back on track. Follow Congressman Biggs on X at (official) and (campaign). Next, Gary Gygi, President and CEO of Gygi Capital, joins the podcast to explain why the U.S. may be experiencing a “stealth manufacturing boom,” with productivity and output rising despite fewer jobs in the sector. He also dives into global energy markets, the impact of international conflicts on oil prices, and what’s ahead for tariffs and supply chains, including the evolving tariff-refund process. You can follow Gary on X at and learn more at . We also sit down with Mollie Hemingway, Editor-in-Chief of The Federalist, to discuss her new book, Alito: The Justice Who Reshaped the Supreme Court and Restored the Constitution. Mollie shares the inside story of Justice Samuel Alito’s influence on the modern Supreme Court, including his role in major decisions like Dobbs, the internal dynamics among justices, and the increasing public pressure and threats facing the Court. She also explains the philosophy of originalism and how it contrasts with more activist approaches to constitutional interpretation. Follow Mollie on X at and check out her book here: . We wrap things up with another wild installment of B’s Corner, diving into a shocking true crime case out of Wisconsin involving disturbing charges that you won’t believe. More Info: Watch full episodes on YouTube (posted every Monday) Listen on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts Follow us: X: Instagram: Facebook: Breaking Battlegrounds /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/41009505

War Powers, Filibuster Chaos & Standing Up for Women’s Sports 04/17/2026

Bad Policy, Real Consequences: Taxes, Crime & Economic Risks 04/10/2026

Bad Policy, Real Consequences: Taxes, Crime & Economic Risks Is America facing the consequences of bad policy? From mass migration out of high-tax states to rising concerns about crime, government overreach, and economic instability, this episode of Breaking Battlegrounds breaks down the biggest issues shaping the country right now. We’re joined by top guests to unpack the real-world impact. In this episode: Chuck Flint – President & CEO of the Alliance for IRS Accountability, former Senate Chief of Staff We discuss the growing exodus from high-tax states like California, Washington, and Colorado, the failure of “tax the rich” policies, and why businesses and job creators are leaving. Flint also exposes massive government waste, fraud in federal programs, and the need for IRS accountability and fiscal reform. Follow Chuck Flint: Learn more: Anna Giaritelli – Award-winning journalist covering DHS, ICE, and border policy Anna shares her powerful personal story from her new book Under Assault, discussing crime in America, victim advocacy, and the long-term impact of sexual assault. We also cover border security concerns, DHS funding issues, and national security risks. Follow Anna: Get her book Under Assault: 👉 🚨 Giveaway alert: Check our Instagram on 4/11/26 at 9:30 AM AZ time for details! @BreakingBattlegrounds Abigail Anthony – Staff Writer at National Review Abigail dives into her investigative reporting on Washington state’s taxpayer-funded programs, raising concerns about discrimination, misuse of funds, and potential constitutional violations. She also discusses government fraud and free speech issues abroad. Follow Abigail: Read her work: Gary Gygi – President & CEO of Gygi Capital Gary breaks down the economic outlook, including risks of recession, rising oil and gas prices, and the debate over “windfall” profit taxes. He shares insights on market trends and how investors should think about uncertainty in today’s economy. Learn more: B’s Corner We also discuss the latest developments in the Gilgo Beach serial killer case, including new details from a shocking plea deal. /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/40807180

Is the Narrative Broken? Plus Arizona’s Legal Battles & What the Polls Are Really Saying 04/03/2026

Is Canada Falling Apart? Plus Iran, War Strategy, and U.S. Stakes 03/27/2026

Arizona Politics, Border Security, DEI Battles & Government Waste 03/20/2026

Arizona Politics, Border Security, DEI Battles & Government Waste This week on Breaking Battlegrounds, Chuck Warren and Sam Stone bring together a powerhouse lineup of guests to break down the biggest political, economic, and cultural issues shaping Arizona and the nation. Kicking things off, congressional candidate and former NFL kicker Jay Feely joins the show following a major endorsement from President Trump and backing from national Republicans. He also recently received the NRCC’s endorsement as part of a select group of candidates in key battleground districts. With Arizona’s 1st Congressional District seen as a key battleground for control of the House, Feely shares what he’s hearing from voters on the ground—rising concern over border security, illegal immigration, election integrity, and the economy. Beyond politics, Feely discusses his journey from the NFL to public service and lays out his vision for tackling Washington’s spending problem. From cutting waste and fraud to exploring blockchain as a tool for real-time transparency in government spending, he argues that Americans are demanding accountability—and not getting it. He also highlights Arizona’s opportunity to lead in AI, data centers, and energy production, making the case for long-term investment in infrastructure to fuel economic growth. See more about Jay Feely's campaign: Economist Richard Salsman joins to take on bigger philosophical questions about capitalism, government intervention, and immigration. He argues that the U.S. has drifted away from true free markets and calls for a return to constitutionally limited government. On immigration, he outlines a more structured, Ellis Island-style system—one that balances opportunity with security and assimilation. See more about Richard's work: Investigative reporter Aaron Sibarium brings a real-world example of government failure, detailing a case in Maryland where a condominium complex was overrun by a homeless encampment while local officials stood by. The result: extensive property damage, displaced residents, and a bureaucratic deadlock that has left homeowners facing financial ruin. See Aaron's latest article here: The episode also dives into higher education, as Timothy Minella of the Goldwater Institute raises concerns about the growing influence of DEI ideology at Arizona State University’s Barrett Honors College. From curriculum shifts to a lack of transparency around course content, the discussion highlights broader questions about trust in institutions and whether students are getting the education they signed up for. See Tim's full story here: Finally, Bess Byers joins to explore the intersection of government, technology, and privacy. From delays and complications in the U.S. Postal Service’s electric vehicle rollout to the rapid expansion of surveillance tools like license plate readers, the conversation underscores the risks of unchecked technological growth—and the urgent need for clear safeguards to protect civil liberties. See Bess's latest story here: /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/40561480

Cuba Negotiations, the CIA, and Trump Derangement Syndrome in the media 03/13/2026

Cuba Negotiations, the CIA, and Trump Derangement Syndrome in the media On this episode of Breaking Battleground, hosts Sam Stone and Chuck Warren talk with a diverse lineup of guests for a wide-ranging discussion covering Cuba and the recent announcement of negotiations, the CIA and conspiracy theories, growing distrust of government, and what they describe as Trump Derangement Syndrome in the media. Carrie Filipetti, Executive Director of the Vandenberg Coalition, discussed the situation in Cuba and the recent announcements regarding negotiations. She noted that a democratic transition in Cuba would represent a major victory for the administration of Donald Trump. Polling suggests roughly two-thirds of Cubans support some form of political change, while about 30–35% favor a more sweeping or radical transformation. Filipetti also argued that the Cuban regime lacks meaningful moderates, as those in power are focused on maintaining control, making significant movement toward human rights and political reform unlikely. She added that Marco Rubio, serving as Secretary of State, may be one of the strongest figures in recent years to manage negotiations with Cuba. Find more information about The Vandenberg Coalition at . Next, Stacy Liberatore of the Daily Mail discusses Project Artichoke, a program that explored methods of influencing or manipulating human behavior through substances, including injections and vaccines. Many records related to the program were reportedly destroyed in 1973, just before a major hearing examiningCentral Intelligence Agency activity. Liberatore also highlights public reaction to her recent reporting on claims that the CIA may have withheld information related to a potential cancer treatment. She references a declassified 1951 study that noted similarities between parasitic worms and cancer cells. Researchers in the Soviet Union reportedly tested the concept in mice with tumor tissue and observed reductions in tumor growth. At the same time, some current members of the Central Intelligence Agency have emphasized that the agency today operates very differently from how it did during the Cold War. Follow Stacy on X at . Later, John Levine discussed what he described as a pattern in which segments of the mainstream media appear to root against U.S. success in conflicts involving Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba. He argued that many outlets reflexively oppose policies associated with Donald Trump, often criticizing developments simply because they are tied to the Trump administration. Levine pointed to coverage of Trump’s prediction that the conflict with Iran could be resolved within four to five weeks, suggesting that media criticism focused more on attacking the president than than need to intervene in Iran. He also noted the ongoing dispute in Washington over funding for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, arguing that despite Democrats blocking funding measures and the shutdown continuing for weeks, media coverage has still largely placed blame on Trump. Follow Jon on X at Finally, Gary Gygi joined the discussion to address concerns about a potential oil shock in the United States. Gygi said he believes the recent rise in oil and gasoline prices is likely temporary rather than the start of a sustained surge. He also discussed the February jobs report, which showed a loss of about 92,000 jobs. Gygi noted that the figure may not indicate a broader trend, as the January report could still be revised and labor data often fluctuates month to month. He added that many companies are currently operating under a “no-hire, no-fire” approach, as the high costs associated with recruiting and onboarding new employees are making employers cautious about expanding their workforce. Find more information on Gary at or . /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/40446485

Iran’s Unrest, U.S. Security Concerns, California’s Energy Crisis & Arizona’s Treasurer Race 03/06/2026

Iran’s Unrest, U.S. Security Concerns, California’s Energy Crisis & Arizona’s Treasurer Race On this episode of Breaking Battlegrounds, hosts Sam Stone and Chuck Warren sit down with a wide-ranging lineup of guests to discuss global conflict, national security, state policy battles, and Arizona politics. Journalist Alessandra Hay, reporting from Armenia, joins the show to discuss her recent reporting on Iranian dissidents gathering in exile in Yerevan and the growing instability inside Iran. She shares stories from her article “The Iranian Exiles Bar Where Revolution Is Dreamed Up” and discusses the risks faced by those attempting to defect from the regime. Alessandra also examines how escalating tensions in Iran could affect Russia, Ukraine, and the broader geopolitical landscape. Find Alessandra’s reporting at Iran War Dispatches: Next, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) joins the show to discuss national security concerns surrounding Russia and Iran, the political debate over war powers in Congress, and broader issues facing the American middle class and military leadership. Learn more about his work in Congress at: Later, California State Senator Tony Strickland discusses the growing energy crisis in California caused by refinery closures and heavy regulations that could dramatically increase gas prices across the state. He also breaks down a major voter ID constitutional amendment effort that has already gathered more than 1.3 million signatures, as well as a recent Supreme Court decision reinforcing parental rights in education. Learn more: Voter ID Initiative: Finally, Arizona businessman Elijah Norton, a candidate for Arizona State Treasurer, joins the podcast to discuss his campaign and his plan to bring fiscal discipline to government. Norton outlines proposals to root out waste, protect Arizona investments, expand school choice, and serve as a financial watchdog for taxpayers. Get involved with his campaign at: Don’t forget to subscribe to Breaking Battlegrounds for weekly conversations on politics, policy, and the issues shaping America. /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/40345180

David Schweikert on His Run for Arizona Governor 03/02/2026

Iran Internet Shutdowns, Epstein Files Fallout & CNN’s Massive Shakeup 02/27/2026

AI on the Frontlines, Arizona’s Tech Boom & Fighting Internet Censorship in Iran 02/20/2026

Trump Economy, ICE Showdowns, School Choice & Switzerland's Political Shockwaves 02/13/2026

Melania Trump, Educational School Choice Scholarship Program, CA Democrats and Lord Gavin 02/06/2026

Melania Trump, Educational School Choice Scholarship Program, CA Democrats and Lord Gavin Our first guest is Alex Swoyer, editor-at-large at The Washington Times, where she covers law and politics in Washington. Alex also hosts “The Sitdown with Alex Swoyer” and writes the popular column “Seen, Heard & Whispered.” She joins us to break down how House Republicans are currently outpacing Democrats as the midterms approach. While Republicans do not hold a lead in the Senate, they face the challenge of defending their majority while also working to pick up additional seats. Growing frustration among Democratic voters is beginning to show up in fundraising numbers, with money shifting away from the party amid a widening leadership vacuum. Alex also recently authored an article highlighting how Melania Trump has accomplished more in one year than Jill Biden did in four. Melania has focused her efforts on protecting children and working with international leaders to address global challenges, particularly the growing threat social media poses to young people. Her recent documentary underscores both the strength of her partnership with President Trump and the lasting impact of her work on behalf of American families. Next, Jon Fleischman joins us to discuss new polling from the Pew Research Center showing Donald Trump struggling with middle-of-the-road voters. Among all voters, Trump’s approval stands at 37 percent, with disapproval at 61 percent. More notably, some of the decline is coming from within the Republican base itself—Republican approval has dropped to 67 percent, with 18 percent of GOP voters now saying Trump is headed in the wrong direction. Jon also explains one of the core challenges facing any president: the Constitution deliberately divides power across branches of government, meaning a president cannot immediately fix issues like interest rates or consumer prices. We also discuss how Trump-era policies are being implemented differently in red versus blue states. One key provision in the “Big Beautiful Bill” is an Education School Choice Scholarship program. Under the plan, taxpayers can direct up to $1,700 of their federal tax liability to a nonprofit that supports school choice, with that amount credited directly against their federal tax bill—creating a substantial new funding stream for school choice. Participation requires approval from a state’s governor. So far, 27 states have signed on for the program beginning in 2027, including 25 states with Republican governors and one Democrat, Colorado Governor Jared Polis. Finally, Jessica Millan Patterson joins us to discuss how Governor Gavin Newsom continues to “fail up,” remaining fixated on his presidential ambitions rather than governing California. The consequences of Newsom’s leadership are increasingly being felt not just within California, but in neighboring states as well. From energy policy to environmental regulations, California’s approach is often counterproductive undermining its own goals by restricting access to cleaner domestic natural resources. As Jessica lays out, Newsom has it wrong on: 1. Housing 2. Education 3. Crime 4. High-Speed Rail 5. Water /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/40023015

Trump Accounts for Kids, Hold My Beer – let’s talk CA fraud, and Trans Homeless Shelters 01/30/2026

Trump Accounts for Kids, Hold My Beer – let’s talk CA fraud, and Trans Homeless Shelters Jessica Anderson joins Breaking Battlegrounds this week to discuss the Trump Accounts for Kids, an innovative public-private partnership included in the Big Beautiful Bill. The program focuses on saving today and investing in the future, with business leaders matching contributions to a modern version of “baby bonds.” It represents a meaningful investment in the American Dream for the next generation. Jessica also breaks down the rapid and damaging shift under Abigail Spanberger. Spanberger campaigned as a moderate highlighting her background as a mom and former CIA officer and promising to prioritize affordability. Yet in less than 30 days in office, she has embraced the most extreme elements of the Democratic Party and pushed them into the mainstream. Jessica describes Spanberger as the female equivalent of Mamdani in Virginia. The agenda includes massive tax hikes, new taxes on lawn equipment, cutting off state and local cooperation with ICE and law enforcement, and introducing resolutions to roll back Governor Youngkin’s changes to DEI policies—among many other proposals. As a result, business owners are already exploring options to leave the state, while many small businesses may be forced to shut their doors altogether. Chairman Will O’Neill of the Republican Party of Orange County joins us to discuss the massive California fraud quickly unfolding and the staggering $31 billion in unemployment fraud that occurred in 2021 and 2022. During that period, states took out unemployment loans from the federal government to cover shortfalls. California still owes more than $20 billion and remains the only state that has not repaid its federal loan. Because the state has failed to pay it back, employers are now facing higher unemployment taxes—effectively a tax increase driven by Governor Newsom’s refusal to retire California’s own debt. O’Neill also highlights a recent case in which an individual living in a $7 million home was arrested for allegedly stealing $23 million in homelessness funds from a program overseen by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’s department. Gary Gygi joins us to discuss the Trump Accounts for Kids, a new initiative that provides every child with a $1,000 account at birth. The funds become accessible at age 18, though recipients can choose to leave the money invested and allow it to continue growing over time. These accounts will be primarily invested in the stock market, with the possibility of limited additional options. The goal is not only long-term growth, but education—introducing young people to capitalism, helping them understand that risk can be positive, and reinforcing the value of participating in the market. Bess Byers joins us to discuss New York City’s $65 million effort to house trans homeless people. When she first saw the story, she immediately thought of the women at a Los Angeles shelter where she previously volunteered women who were seeking refuge after fleeing abuse and domestic violence. Bess raises concerns that legislation affects these women-only shelters by housing women with males and whether it’s trans homeless or any homeless shelter, the homeless industrial complex has so much fraud and waste. /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/39939880

Greenland, Silicon Desert, Police Bodycams and Comedy 01/23/2026

Greenland, Silicon Desert, Police Bodycams and Comedy Our first guest today is Josh Hammer, senior editor-at-large at Newsweek, host of The Josh Hammer Show, and author of Israel and Civilization: The Fate of the Jewish Nation and the Destiny of the West. Josh explores America’s long-standing interest in Greenland, dating back to the Lincoln and Truman administrations. While Denmark maintains limited authority over the territory, NATO oversees much of Greenland’s day-to-day security—and with the United States serving as the backbone of NATO, Josh explains how this history and reality help frame President Trump’s interest in acquiring Greenland. Josh also weighs in on the war in Ukraine, examining possible timelines for its conclusion. He argues that it is in America’s best interest for Ukraine to remain independent, and notes President Trump’s consistent position that the priority must be reducing bloodshed while continuing to support Ukraine. Our second guest is John Trobough, a candidate for Arizona’s First Congressional District. John is running for Congress because he believes our nation is at a crossroads, and Arizona has a unique opportunity to lead—but only if we elect leaders who genuinely care. As the epicenter of the next-generation economy, Arizona may not replace Silicon Valley, but it has the potential to become the “Silicon Desert.” John joins us to discuss the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, why it’s critical that we get ahead of it, and how we can ensure innovation and economic growth truly benefit Arizona’s economy. Comedian and writer Lou Perez joins us to talk about his recent piece, “Police Bodycams: The Left’s Biggest Self-Own.” Lou explores the irony that police body cameras—originally demanded by anti-police activists—have ultimately done more to undermine that movement than anything else. He also discusses his book, “That Joke Isn’t Funny Anymore: On the Death and Rebirth of Comedy,” where he examines how humor has been shaped by woke culture. Lou argues that for years, comedians trying to push back against Donald Trump often relied on the same recycled jokes, which ultimately opened the door for a new wave of comics willing to tackle topics others were afraid to touch. /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/39856260

Iran Edition: A Crime Against Humanity 01/20/2026

Iran Edition: A Crime Against Humanity Our first guest today is Roya Hakakian, author of Journey from the Land of No. Born and raised in Iran, Roya explains that what has unfolded there over the past two weeks is comparable in national trauma and moral consequence to the September 11, 2001 attacks or the October 7 terrorist massacre. She argues that the world’s failure to grasp the scale of these events is akin to 9/11 happening and no one paying attention. The reports are horrific—reminiscent of genocidal campaigns of the 20th century—including accounts of security forces in Mashhad beheading teenagers and municipal workers being instructed not to clean blood from the streets, deliberately leaving visible reminders to terrorize the population. We are also joined by Reuel Marc Gerecht, a former CIA Iranian targets officer who spent years identifying, assessing, and attempting to recruit Iranians with access to valuable intelligence. He argues that short of direct military action, the United States can play a far more aggressive role by helping protesters secure communications and cyber capabilities to disrupt the regime’s control. The regime, he notes, appears to have taken a “shotgun” approach—systematically eliminating anyone who has demonstrated leadership in street protests—and that targeted repression is strategically significant. Our third guest is Behnam Ben Taleblu, senior director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Iran Program, where he oversees the organization’s Iran-related research and analysis. He contends that if President Trump intends to help catalyze the next phase of protests in Iran—to give momentum and protection to those already in the streets—the United States will need to act in a way that is politically consequential. Political pressure and military signaling, he argues, must be fused. While Qatar fears regime collapse, Turkey arguably has the most to lose and has been among the most vocal opponents of an Iranian implosion. The regime’s more than 12-day internet blackout, Taleblu notes, is designed to prevent images and videos that violate its own red lines from escaping and saturating the global media environment. /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/39799535

Former Ambassador Thomas Shannon, Jr discusses Venezuela, Greg Roeberg - Candidate for AZ AG, and Sheepdog the movie 01/16/2026

Former Ambassador Thomas Shannon, Jr discusses Venezuela, Greg Roeberg - Candidate for AZ AG, and Sheepdog the movie Our first guest today is Former Ambassador Thomas Shannon, Jr, a Senior International Policy Advisor bringing more than three decades of government service and diplomatic experience to his practice, providing strategic counsel to clients across a range of legislative, foreign police, and national security issues. Thomas explains why France, Italy, and Spain have been hesitant to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization, despite its extensive involvement in terrorist activity inside Iran and beyond. He notes that such a designation could complicate future cooperation during a potential political transition in Iran. Thomas also examines the long-standing relationship between Venezuela and Cuba. After Russia withdrew support from Cuba in 1991, Venezuela emerged as Havana’s primary lifeline—providing oil and financial support in exchange for Cuban intelligence officers and social programs that helped the Chávez government maintain control over political opposition, monitor the Venezuelan military, and provide security for Chávez himself. As Cuba enters a period of slow political change, the sudden loss of Venezuelan oil, gas, and cash would have profound consequences for the island. Finally, Thomas warns that failed efforts at regime change can leave the international community worse off than before. President Trump has pursued a solution to Venezuela for more than a decade, and Thomas discusses the strategic dilemma facing Trump following plans to capture Nicolás Maduro and his wife: whether to recognize a democratic opposition that claims victory in the 2024 election, or to pursue an alternative pathway for political transition. Our in-studio guest this week is Greg Roeberg, a candidate for Arizona Attorney General. Greg is a husband, father, business leader, and cancer survivor who previously served as President Trump’s campaign attorney, working to defend the integrity of our elections. During the discussion, Greg explains the role of the Attorney General and outlines how he would uphold and defend the Arizona State Constitution. He also addresses the controversial lawsuits filed by Kris Mayes and shares his priorities and plans should he be elected as Arizona’s next Attorney General. We are joined by actor and director Steven Grayhm, who has just released a new film titled Sheepdog. The movie explores the challenges combat veterans face as they transition back into civilian life. Sheepdog—sheepdofthemovie.com—premieres today, January 16th. The inspiration for the film began when Steven met a tow truck driver who came to his aid after his car broke down. During their conversation, the driver shared his own struggles reintegrating into everyday life after military service. That encounter stayed with Steven. In 2011, he traveled across the country meeting with veterans and quickly realized this was not an isolated experience—many veterans face the same difficult challenges. Those stories became the foundation and inspiration for Sheepdog. Our financial expert, Gary Gygi, joins us once again to break down the state of the economy. While economic growth continues, job creation has lagged. Employers aren’t laying workers off—but they also aren’t hiring at significant levels. As a result, many Americans are juggling multiple jobs and working 60 to 70 hours a week just to make ends meet. Meanwhile, the U.S. trade deficit has fallen to its lowest level in years, signaling a major reduction in the trade imbalance. If this trend continues, it reflects exactly what President Trump has long emphasized: reindustrializing America and exporting more of what we produce. /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/39763785

Chapters of the War in Ukraine, the Tijuana River Sewage Crisis and the South African Constitution 01/09/2026

Chapters of the War in Ukraine, the Tijuana River Sewage Crisis and the South African Constitution Our first guest today is Alessandra Hay, reporting from Kyiv, Ukraine. Alessandra discusses a growing humanitarian crisis: the lack of space to bury the dead. Severe shortages of cemetery plots have forced burials outside designated cemeteries, raising concerns about contamination of local water supplies. Ukraine is now in the final stages of constructing a crematorium in Kyiv to address the issue. Hay also explains that announcements of peace talks have little impact on daily life for Ukrainians, as Russia shows no genuine interest in ending the war. Many Ukrainians believe there is no option but to continue fighting. While the war will not last forever, people are living in uncertainty, waiting to see what comes next—because anything can happen. Our second guest, Josh Cook, former Regional Administrator for the EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region, addresses the Tijuana River sewage crisis and its wide-ranging impacts on the military, schools, and tourism. He explains how criminal gangs from Mexico transported and dumped sewage into the Tijuana River, allowing fecal contamination to flow into the United States and pollute American beaches. Within 100 days, more than 10,000 gallons of sewage were removed and prevented from reaching coastal areas—ending a problem that had persisted for over 20 years. Cook also discusses how Arizona is being penalized due to its geography and how the Clean Air Act has increasingly been used as a tool to stifle prosperity and economic growth. Joel Pollak is an opinion editor at the California Post, a newly launched, seven-days-a-week digital print newspaper in California. The absence of right-leaning media outlets in the state has allowed Governor Gavin Newsom to shape national narratives without meaningful state-level media scrutiny. Our hosts discuss Pollak’s latest piece examining why Newsom has effectively disqualified himself from a presidential run. They also address how the taxpayer-funded press office has been transformed into a political trolling operation targeting President Trump. The conversation further explores the South African Constitution—long admired by the American left and even supported by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg—which guarantees a wide range of socio-economic rights such as healthcare and a clean environment. /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/39678805

Venezuela Edition – “What the heck’s going on down there?” 01/08/2026

Venezuela Edition – “What the heck’s going on down there?” On today’s special, we turn our full attention to Venezuela, exploring the need for intervention with four guests who offer varied firsthand experiences and perspectives on the country and President Trump’s role. Our first guest is Santiago Vidal Calvo, a cities policy analyst focused on government accountability and transparency through the Manhattan Institute’s Freedom of Information Law initiatives. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Vidal Calvo immigrated to the United States in 2021. He explains why President Trump’s actions were lawful under Article II of the U.S. Constitution and justified by national security concerns, noting that more than a century of precedent supports the president’s authority to act in this manner. He also challenges claims of international law violations, questioning who defines and enforces international law—and where those protections were during the 27 years Venezuelans were killed, tortured, and kidnapped. Next we speak with Carrie Filipetti who currently serves as Executive Director of the Vandenberg Coalition. Previously, she held senior roles at the U.S. Department of State, including Deputy Assistant Secretary for Cuba and Venezuela in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs and Deputy Special Representative for Venezuela—earning a Superior Honor Award for her service. Venezuela’s collapse is a stark riches-to-rags story: once the wealthiest nation in Latin America, its decline began with the rise of socialism. In just the past few years, roughly 25 percent of the population has been forced to flee. Families have been torn apart, torture and human rights abuses are widespread, and nearly every Venezuelan has been affected—fueling strong domestic support for what is unfolding now. Carrie also examines what this moment means for Cuba, and how these developments will shape the broader Western Hemisphere, including implications for Cuba and Nicaragua. Our third guest is Doral Councilman Rafael Piñeyro, who was born in Caracas, Venezuela, and moved to Miami with his family at the age of 15, carrying hopes and dreams for his future. Today, roughly 40 percent of the Doral community is Venezuelan. This issue goes beyond political parties or ideology—it is about principle, accountability, and justice. What happens in Venezuela matters not only to its people, but to the entire region and the United States. After 26 years of suffering under these regimes, the impact has been felt both in Venezuela and here at home. Councilman Piñeyro believes the United States is now sending a clear and unmistakable message: these regimes will be held accountable, and it is time for a better future for Latin America—while signaling to the world that America is back. Alexa Lavoi, Chief Journalist for Rebel News in Quebec and Ottawa, recounts her on-the-ground reporting from Doral, Florida, where she interviewed Venezuelans who fled their homeland after facing persecution for opposing views or noncompliance with the regime. Through emotional, firsthand stories, Alexa witnessed both the pain and resilience within the community. While hope remains strong, there is also profound worry for the future of Venezuela and for family members still trapped under the regime. /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/39667555

Anna Giaritelli discusses border crossings under the Trump Administration and the Bondi attack is radical Islamic terrorism with Drew Pavlou 01/02/2026

Anna Giaritelli discusses border crossings under the Trump Administration and the Bondi attack is radical Islamic terrorism with Drew Pavlou Happy New Year! Our first episode of 2026 we discuss the border and the focus shifting to the interior of country, the American Dream, Australia and the Bondi attacks and positive outlook forecasted for our economy and market. First, Anna Giaritelli, an award-winning journalist and writer whose reporting for the Washington Examiner, shines light on the Trump Administration’s latest effort to secure our Southern border - deploying buoys in the Texas river as a marine wall, how the immigration crisis at the border is slowing but the focus is now shifting to the interior of the country with deportations and discusses her debut memoir "Under Assault: A Crime Reporter's True Story Overcoming Sexual Trauma and Exposing Injustice." Our second guest is Chuong Vo, candidate for US Congress is CA-CD 45. Chuong is a husband, father, former Mayor of Cerritos, and a 28-year-law-enforcement officer. Since then, crime rose, costs climbed, and politics got meaner and less honest. Asked by his friends and community leaders to step up and run, Chuong said yes because service is what he knows and what he is passionate about. Discussing what the American Dream means to him as an immigrant, the value of working hard and his pride of being an American. Drew Pavlou has reported from the frontlines in Ukraine and survived Chinese government kidnap plots and bomb threat campaigns. Being pressured by the Australian police to delete a tweet about the Bondi attack, getting crushed with fines by the government after peacefully protesting, and how not a single arrest has been made since the Bondi attack, and 2 right-wing extremists have been deported but no one held responsible for the attacks. Gary Gygi is a seasoned financial expert, former mayor, and president of Gygi Capital Management. Gary discusses the FED and the new FED chair, potential for lowering interest rates benefiting the economy and stock market, the tailwinds that show the market and economy look good in 2026. /episode/index/show/breakingbattlegrounds/id/39595720

Merry Christmas from Breaking Battlegrounds 12/22/2025

Scott Johnson on Rep. Ilhan Omar Marrying Her Brother and Minnesota’s Somali Fraud 12/20/2025

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America’s Wake Up Call on China, Schools, and Taxes 12/12/2025

Peer Review Gone Wild, the New GOP, and Trump Accounts 12/05/2025

Inside Gen Z Politics and What the Epstein Files Reveal 11/21/2025

The Real History of Thanksgiving, American Traditions, and Honoring Our Veterans and Allies 11/18/2025

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