10 chapters across the catalog
The death of broadcaster Ed Schultz at age 64 is noted, following his career transition from MSNBC to RT America. The hosts review his history as a "professional entertainer" who shifted political stances depending on his employer. A brief archival clip shows Schultz's energetic reporting style on the Keystone Pipeline and Senate voting.
Ed Schultz, MSNBC Bernie Sanders Coverage Suppression
Former MSNBC host Ed Schultz revealed that the network's president, Phil Griffin, explicitly ordered him not to cover Bernie Sanders' 2015 presidential announcement. Schultz, now with RT America, alleged that MSNBC was "in the tank" for Hillary Clinton and managed coverage to favor her campaign. He argued that the mainstream media's primary focus on advertising revenue prevents honest reporting on anti-establishment candidates.
Voice of America, Alleged Bribery of RT Journalists
Max Keiser claims he was approached by Voice of America representatives to perform a staged on-air resignation from RT in exchange for money. The hosts suggest that Voice of America acts as a front for the CIA to undermine foreign media outlets. They speculate on the financial incentives offered to journalists to defect from Russian-funded networks.
RT Resignation Bribe Allegations, Voice of America, Max Keiser
Max Keiser reportedly informed Adam Curry that the high-profile on-air resignation of an RT anchor was orchestrated by Voice of America. Keiser claims he was also offered money by the same entities to quit the network but declined because the offer was insufficient.
Stacy Herbert utilizes an iPhone 6 Plus with lavalier microphones to record high-quality video for RT while walking backward. In London, RT reportedly shares studio facilities with other organizations, including Voice of America. An anecdote describes a situation where RT and Voice of America used the same facilities back-to-back to report on the MH17 plane crash.
Broadcast Board of Governors, RT Budget and Propaganda War
Secretary John Kerry requested additional funding for the Broadcast Board of Governors (BBG) to counter Russian propaganda. While Kerry suggested the U.S. lacked an equivalent to Russia Today (RT) in the Russian language, data shows the BBG's budget of $721 million significantly exceeds RT's $220 million budget. The hosts discuss the ongoing information war and the role of Voice of America.
Liz Wall's high-profile resignation from RT America is scrutinized, specifically her pronunciation of Vladimir Putin's name. Her subsequent media appearances on CNN and with Piers Morgan are analyzed as a potential "snap-up scheme" for a new job. The hosts critique her performance and professional demeanor during interviews.
Abby Martin's appearance on Piers Morgan's show is discussed, focusing on her defense of RT's editorial independence compared to US corporate media. The hosts critique her argument regarding advertiser influence and her lack of specific knowledge regarding the Ukraine crisis.
John Kerry's first trip to Latin America as Secretary of State was overshadowed by revelations regarding NSA surveillance. RT's coverage of the trip included a pun about Kerry "assuming the position," which the hosts use to further their critique of the network's attempt at intellectual humor.
RT America Propaganda and the American Empire Discussion
RT America, the Russian-funded news network, featured a discussion on the "American Empire" and the presence of 1,000 U.S. military bases worldwide. The segment included references to Ron Paul and libertarian opposition to foreign intervention. Analysts describe the coverage as a blunt propaganda effort by the Russian government to influence Western public opinion.
