6 chapters across the catalog
Donald Trump guarantees the return of four American prisoners in Iran if he is elected, criticizing the current administration's negotiation tactics. The discussion references Sarah Shourd, one of the three American hikers previously detained in Iran, and suggests the CIA may actually favor the nuclear deal for strategic reasons.
Shane Bauer, Sarah Shourd, CIA Journalist Recruitment
Shane Bauer and Sarah Shourd, two of the hikers previously detained in Iran, are reportedly getting married. The hosts discuss the "spy central" reputation of Berkeley and recount a story from journalist Gina Smith, who claimed the CIA attempted to recruit her as a student to plant specific phrases or stories in major publications like The Washington Post.
Iran Hikers Release, Oman Mediation and Bribes
Two American hikers, Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal, were released from an Iranian prison after 781 days following a $1 million bail payment mediated by Oman. The hikers, who were arrested near the Iraq-Iran border, are widely suspected of being CIA assets rather than recreational tourists. The "bail" is characterized as a straightforward bribe, and the role of Oman is seen as a diplomatic maneuver to raise its international profile.
Sarah Shourd Release, Yemen Anecdote and Rahm Emanuel
The hosts discuss the release of Sarah Shourd, one of the American hikers detained in Iran, and share an anecdote about a suspicious "photographer" in Yemen with a computer science degree. They also note Rahm Emanuel's expected announcement to run for Mayor of Chicago, signaling a departure from the White House.
Iranian Hostage Negotiations and Hillary Clinton's Role
Bill Clinton discusses the detention of American hikers in Iran during his YouTube interview. He suggests that a "high-level representative" may eventually need to travel to Iran to bring the remaining detainees home. The hosts interpret this as a scripted setup for Hillary Clinton to act as a diplomatic hero, mirroring the Reagan-era "October Surprise" playbook.
Sarah Shourd Release, Blackwater and Monsanto Connection
American hiker Sarah Shourd is released from Iranian custody, delivering a polished speech that the hosts find suspiciously professional. They compare her to the journalists previously held in North Korea and suggest she may have intelligence ties. The segment also covers reports that Blackwater (now Xe) provided intelligence services to Monsanto to infiltrate activist groups.
