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High Times’ Josh Kesselman Calls B.S. on Big Alcohol’s Anti-Weed Panic

High Times publisher Josh Kesselman is calling out what he sees as a coordinated fear campaign against cannabis, driven less by public health concerns than by market pressure.

n a recent interview with TMZ, Kesselman pushed back hard against viral stories claiming cannabis use is causing people to vomit violently, a phenomenon often described online as “scromiting.” According to Kesselman, the timing is not accidental.

“Yeah, that’s big alcohol going nuts on us,” he said. “That all really kicked in once those beverages hit.”

Kesselman was referring to the rapid rise of THC beverages, including cannabis seltzers, sodas, and tonics, a category that has grown quickly as alcohol consumption in the U.S. continues to decline. He framed the backlash not as a moral or medical debate, but as a business one.

“Big alcohol is our biggest foe right now that we know of,” Kesselman said. “And it’s just about money and nothing else.”

Fear messaging vs lived experience

At the center of Kesselman’s criticism is the contrast between how cannabis risks are portrayed and how alcohol’s well-documented harms are treated.

“Imagine this,” he said. “Big alcohol’s out there telling people that weed’s going to make you puke. Alcohol saying another product might make 0.3% of people possibly puke if they smoke too much of it.”

Kesselman did not deny that cannabis can cause adverse reactions in some users. But he challenged the selective outrage and sensational framing.

“Like, dude, I have puked so many times from drinking,” he said. “I have ‘scromited’ by drinking too freaking much and then trying to eat my way out of it, which doesn’t work.”

For Kesselman, the issue is not whether cannabis has risks, but whether those risks are being discussed honestly or exaggerated to slow competition.

“The truth of the plant and what it does for our community, that’s what matters,” he said. “The truth ain’t about scromiting.”

“Compete fairly or get in the game”

Rather than calling for protectionism or special treatment for cannabis, Kesselman made a straightforward argument: let consumers decide.

“Let’s compete fairly,” he said. “If people like weed better, let them buy the weed.”

His message to alcohol companies was blunt.

“If you’re so concerned about it, make your own beverages,” Kesselman said. “Get into the weed game. Compete with those guys. You’ll do better anyway. But stop trying to hold the rest of us back.”

He also acknowledged that consolidation pressures do not come only from alcohol, noting that large agricultural interests and even major cannabis companies may benefit from heavier regulation that limits who can participate.

“Some of the big cannabis companies will be in there too,” he said. “Because they want it all to be regulated and given just to them.”

Context: CHS is real, but panic sells

Kesselman’s comments echo arguments High Times has made previously about the way cannabis harms are covered in mainstream media.

In December, High Times published “Big Alcohol Says Weed Will Make You Puke? Hmm…,” which examined the surge of alarmist reporting around Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, or CHS. The article made clear that CHS is a real and documented condition, while also showing how it is rare, often misrepresented, and frequently stripped of statistical context in headlines designed to shock.

That piece also traced how the term “scromiting” originated on social media rather than in medical literature, and how dramatic language tends to travel faster than nuance.

Kesselman’s TMZ comments extend that critique, shifting the focus from media dynamics to market dynamics.

“This is about money,” he said. “Nothing else.”

A familiar pattern

Cannabis replacing alcohol is not a theoretical threat. Survey data, sales figures, and cultural trends have shown a steady shift, particularly among younger consumers, toward cannabis as a substitute for drinking. As that shift accelerates, Kesselman believes pushback is inevitable.

“We just want everyone to be merry,” he said. “And healthier, with the spirit of cannabis.”

For High Times, the position remains consistent. Acknowledge real risks. Reject hysteria. Follow the incentives.

Or, as Kesselman put it more bluntly: stop trying to scare people and start competing.

 

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The Age of Disclosure: Film Review

What It Claims to Be

  • The film, directed by Dan Farah, centers on the claim — laid out by 34 former government, military, and intelligence-community insiders — that non-human intelligence has visited Earth, that there’s been a decades-long cover-up, and possibly a secret “reverse-engineering” of alien tech by world powers.
  • It argues that these insiders, some high-ranking, have chosen to speak out, asserting that “the situation is real,” and that UAPs (formerly UFOs) are not merely aerial oddities, but part of a much larger — and deeply classified — phenomenon.

So from the get-go, Disclosure casts itself less as a speculative film and more as a whistleblower-driven exposé of a “secret history.”

What It Does Well

  • Polished production & strong narrative framing — The documentary doesn’t feel like a rough Internet conspiracy video; it’s slick, cinematic, and well-paced. Editors and production value give it a gravitas rarely seen in UFO documentaries.
  • Credible-sounding testimony — For those inclined to believe in UAP disclosure, hearing former insiders speak, off-the-record but on-camera, adds weight. The film leans heavily into this ethos: “real people with real security-clearance history,” not random paranormal enthusiasts.
  • Compelling urgency & gravity — By tying the claims to national security, advanced technology reverse-engineering, and geopolitics, the film doesn’t treat UAPs as fringe sci-fi fluff. Instead it frames them as potential world-changing events, demanding serious attention.

If you’re someone drawn to the possibility that the world is hiding bigger truths — which I know fits your wheelhouse — there’s a strong emotional and intellectual punch to what this film delivers.


 What Doesn’t Quite Land — And What You Should Watch With a Critical Eye

First Contact
  • No verifiable “smoking gun” evidence — The film relies almost entirely on testimony and hearsay. No new public physical evidence (e.g. recoverable alien artifacts, verifiable bodies) is presented. For many skeptics and for the archival record, testimony alone will fall short.
  • No on-screen dissent / peer-reviewed counterpoints — The documentary plays more like a prosecutorial case than an objective investigation; you won’t find scientists or skeptics in opposition, asking critical questions. That omission — intentional or not — undermines the film’s claim to objectivity.
  • Heavy reliance on reputation and secrecy as evidence — Much of the film’s “proof” is that someone with a clearance and résumé says “trust me, I saw it/heard it.” That’s always a gamble — especially with topics historically steeped in disinformation, propaganda, and secrecy ops.
  • It may feel more like a call to belief than a rigorous documentary — For viewers who demand corroborated facts and replicable evidence, the film might come off as persuasive fiction dressed as documentary.

 Conclusion: Worth Watching — But Don’t Sign Anything

If you’re wired like I am, always probing for angles that Big Media ignores — this documentary is absolutely worth your time. It’s one of the more polished, high-profile, and insider-heavy UFO / UAP docs released recently, and the emotional narrative plus the geopolitical framing give it a cinematic punch.

But treat it as a provocative conversation starter — not a definitive revelation.

The lack of publicly verifiable evidence means you’ll probably leave with more questions than answers.

 

 

Hemp Held Hostage: Washington Shutdown Threatens America’s $30 Billion Industry

 

 

As Congress stumbles into another government shutdown standoff, the real casualties aren’t just federal employees or political reputations — it’s America’s $30+ billion hemp industry and the millions of workers, farmers, and small business owners who depend on it.

At the center of the chaos is a single paragraph buried in the new federal spending proposal — language pushed by Democrats that would redefine hemp in the upcoming 2025 Farm Bill, effectively giving the DEA new authority to restrict or criminalize hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8, Delta-10, and HHC.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, once hailed as the “godfather” of U.S. hemp legalization for shepherding the 2018 Farm Bill, now finds himself in the middle of a bitter political tug-of-war. He and other senior Republicans refuse to pass the Democrats’ version of the funding bill unless that hemp language is removed. Meanwhile, Democrats argue the loophole has fueled an unregulated “gray market” of psychoactive hemp products they say must be closed.

The Industry in Limbo

While Washington plays politics, the U.S. hemp economy — valued at over $30 billion annually — is effectively being held hostage. Retailers can’t plan ahead. Farmers are halting harvests. Processors and distributors face stalled payments and regulatory uncertainty.

“It’s the same story we saw in Texas earlier this year,” one industry advocate told Blaze News. “Politicians who don’t understand hemp chemistry are trying to legislate it out of existence. And while they argue, our businesses bleed.”

This political paralysis couldn’t come at a worse time. The hemp sector has become one of the fastest-growing agricultural and retail markets in America, creating thousands of jobs and billions in tax revenue. Now, amid the federal shutdown, small hemp shops and wholesalers are losing access to SBA support, USDA programs, and even mail-based commerce — all while Washington debates what hemp is.

The Definition Fight

At stake is the definition of hemp itself.
Since 2018, federal law has defined hemp as cannabis with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis. But the explosion of minor cannabinoids — chemically derived from legal hemp — has lawmakers panicking. The proposed new definition would outlaw most hemp-derived THC products, reshaping the entire industry overnight.

McConnell and several Republican allies have quietly sided with farm-state senators to block the redefinition, while progressive Democrats and anti-cannabis conservatives form an unlikely coalition demanding tighter control.

Americans Pay the Price

While D.C. bickers, everyday Americans are paying the price. Veterans waiting on benefits, families missing child tax credits, and government workers sent home without paychecks are now joined by an unexpected group — hemp farmers and entrepreneurs — who find their livelihoods trapped in the crossfire of partisan politics.

This isn’t just a shutdown. It’s a showdown over hemp’s future in America.

The Bottom Line

If Congress doesn’t resolve the shutdown soon — and the hemp language remains in dispute — the ripple effect will devastate a sector that’s already endured state bans, inconsistent regulation, and banking discrimination.

Once again, it’s Main Street — not Washington — that will feel the burn.


 

Explainer: Why Governor Abbott Is Asking the Texas Supreme Court to Remove Rep. Gene Wu from Office

In a move that’s being called both historic and controversial, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has asked the state’s highest court to remove Representative Gene Wu from office. Abbott’s legal team filed an emergency petition on Tuesday with the Texas Supreme Court, invoking an obscure legal tool known as a writ of quo warranto. If the Court grants the petition, it would mark the first time in modern Texas history that a legislator is removed by judicial action rather than by voters or by their colleagues in the Legislature.

A writ of quo warranto is a legal proceeding used to challenge whether someone is lawfully holding public office. Latin for “by what authority,” the writ is typically used in cases where a person is accused of usurping an office they aren’t entitled to hold, or of committing acts that legally forfeit their right to continue serving. In Texas, it is most often used to challenge appointed officials who fail to meet statutory requirements, but it has rarely been applied to elected legislators.

The petition arises from the decision by Wu and dozens of House Democrats to leave Texas on August 3 in order to break quorum during the current special legislative session. By fleeing the state, they prevented the House from conducting official business, including votes on Governor Abbott’s special session priorities—chief among them, a proposed congressional redistricting map. The Democrats flew to Chicago aboard a privately chartered jet, echoing tactics used during previous quorum breaks in 2003 and 2021.

Abbott’s legal filing argues that Wu’s actions amount to abandonment of office. According to the Governor, the Texas Constitution requires that when the Governor calls a special session, the Legislature shall meet. Abbott contends that quorum-breaking violates that constitutional duty, and that a deliberate, prolonged absence for political purposes constitutes a forfeiture of the office. In addition to abandonment, the petition accuses Wu of effectively soliciting or accepting bribes. Specifically, it points to the chartered flight and political fundraising appeals tied to the quorum break as evidence that Wu received something of value in exchange for withholding his vote or official presence—an act that, if proven, could trigger automatic forfeiture of office under Article XVI, Section 41 of the Texas Constitution. The filing also argues that Wu’s indefinite absence from the state could be construed as a loss of residency, which under Article III, Section 23, would create a vacancy.

While the Texas Supreme Court has original jurisdiction to hear quo warranto petitions against state officials, the legal question remains highly unsettled. No Texas court has ever removed a legislator for participating in a quorum break. In fact, several past instances—most notably the 2003 “Killer D’s” walkout and the 1979 “Killer Bees” incident in the Texas Senate—were resolved politically, not judicially.

As of publication, Representative Wu has not filed a formal legal response. However, legal scholars and civil rights organizations have flagged several potential defenses. One of the strongest is the separation of powers argument: the Texas Constitution gives the House of Representatives the exclusive power to judge the qualifications, behavior, and discipline of its members. Wu’s team is likely to argue that if the House wants to expel or censure him, it has the tools to do so—and that the judiciary, or the Governor, has no authority to interfere in internal legislative matters.

Another possible defense is rooted in the First Amendment. Supporters of Wu’s actions contend that the quorum break is a form of protected political protest, particularly given the stakes of the redistricting debate and the legislative process itself. From this perspective, fundraising to support travel and communications during the protest is not bribery, but a lawful extension of political expression and association.

Wu may also argue that he has not abandoned his office. He has not resigned, and he continues to perform constituent services remotely. Unlike someone who ceases all contact or activity, Wu’s absence is temporary and strategic—intended to influence policy outcomes, not to abdicate responsibility. His defenders will also likely note that accepting travel assistance or campaign donations during a political protest does not, in and of itself, constitute bribery unless there is a clear quid pro quo arrangement.

Questions have also been raised about whether Governor Abbott even has the legal standing to bring this case. Under Chapter 66 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, quo warranto actions are typically initiated by the Attorney General or a local district or county attorney, not by the Governor himself. While Abbott’s team argues that the Governor has the inherent power to seek judicial clarification on vacancies under the Constitution, others may view this as an overreach of executive authority.

Finally, the timing of the case raises issues of ripeness and potential mootness. If Wu returns to the state or the special session concludes before the Court rules, some legal observers argue that the issue could become academic. In prior cases, such as In re Turner in 2021, the Texas Supreme Court addressed aspects of quorum-breaking but declined to remove any members or define it as abandonment of office.

What makes this case particularly significant is the potential precedent it could set. If the Court finds in favor of the Governor, future walkouts—regardless of party—could be met not with political consequences, but with judicial removal. That would dramatically change the landscape of legislative protest in Texas, and potentially in other states as well.

The Texas Supreme Court has been asked to issue a ruling by Thursday, August 7, citing the urgency of the special session calendar. If the petition is granted, it would open the door to a high-profile legal showdown that pits legislative independence against executive authority, and tests the limits of protest in the digital and partisan age.

Blazed News will continue to monitor the case closely and provide updates as it develops.

 

Texas Smoke Shop Owners React to New THC Legislation

 

LifestyleCannabisCannabis Law

Austin, TX – State legislators are considering a  ban of the sale of all consumable hemp products, leaving the cannabis industry and cannabis advocates in the State of Texas in an uproar.

New cannabis legislation threatens to dismantle a $5.5 Billion industry by bringing an end to the sale of all consumable hemp products in Texas.

This will affect over 10,000 businesses in Texas according to the latest estimates, and over 55,000 jobs will be lost.

“We haven’t abused any loopholes in legislation, because we did not write the legislation nor were we asked to help or assist in the regulations” states Ahmad Alnajjar, owner of Trippiez Smoke Shop. “Everything we have sold and produced has been federally legal with the recent federal farm bill guidelines. We want safety like the legislators do, we WANT proper regulation to ensure safety, abide by the law, and provide the right products for millions of Texans who rely on this as much as we rely on them.”

With five locations in Austin and plans to open an additional location soon, Trippiez Smoke Shop will definitely feel the burn when this legislation is enacted. Imposing fees, creating criminal offenses, and providing an administrative penalty for violations is the primary objective of the new legislation. TX SB3 is sponsored by several members of the state Senate and championed by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. Texas legalized hemp-derived products in 2019, but according to the Lt. Gov., retailers have abused this by selling products with a THC level of above 0.3%. CBD and CBG products are exempt provided that they are registered, plainly labeled and in resealable, child-proof containers.

“All the businesses who follow regulations are being punished for the very very few businesses who act carelessly”, protests Alnajjar.

The concerns of those owners who will not have to close their doors is significant, as well. Adjustments will have to be made such as cutting labor costs, and profit will be lost on surplus hemp-derived inventory if not sold before the allotted grace period. 


For more information, contact (512) 291-2325 or visit Trippiez online.

Trippiez #1 12636 Research Blvd b104, Austin, TX 78759

Trippiez #2 13764 Research Blvd Austin, Texas 78750

Trippiez #3 aka SOCO 6606 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745

Trippiez #4 16238 Ranch to Market Rd. 620 Suite G, Austin, TX 78717

Trippiez #5 11699 Hero Way W, Leander, TX 78641

Cheech & Chong: Icons of Stoner Culture

 

  • Cheech & Chong: Icons of Stoner Culture. Spotlighted in Blazed Magazine’s May/June 2025 Issue

 

The May/June 2025 edition of Blazed Magazine pays homage to the legendary comedic duo Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong, featuring cover art inspired by their latest cinematic venture, Cheech & Chong’s Last Movie. This tribute underscores their enduring influence on both mainstream and cannabis cultures spanning the 1970s through the 1990s.

 

Rising to prominence in the 1970s, Cheech & Chong became synonymous with countercultural humor, delivering iconic performances in films like Up in Smoke, Nice Dreams, and Still Smokin’. Their unique blend of satire and advocacy played a pivotal role in bringing cannabis culture into the public discourse.

 

Fast forward to today, the duo continues to innovate within the cannabis industry. Their latest product lines, High & Dry THC-infused seltzers and High Tea THC-infused iced teas, are now available at Total Wine locations across Texas. Flavors such as Magic Mule, Raspberry Highball, and Cheech’s Peaches offer consumers a modern, alcohol-free way to enjoy cannabis-infused beverages.

To celebrate these launches, Cheech & Chong are hosting an exclusive meet-and-greet event:

 

Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Time: 2:20 PM – 4:20 PM

Location: Total Wine & More, 9350 N. Central Expressway, Dallas, TX 75231

 

 

 

Fans can secure a spot by purchasing any Cheech & Chong beverage (High & Dry or High Tea) at any Total Wine location in Texas prior to the event and presenting the receipt or a clear photo of it. The first 250 attendees will receive a limited-edition signed poster and a photo opportunity with the duo.

 

Cheech & Chong’s continued contributions to entertainment and cannabis culture exemplify their lasting legacy and commitment to innovation.

Each can be heard on previous podcast of the Texas Hemp Show Podcast.

Ep #55 Cheech

Ep. # 35 Tommy

Cannabis Pioneer ‘The Soil King’ Praises Texans for Passionate Fight Against Hemp Ban

Patrick King, known professionally as The Soil King, made a name for himself in Northern California’s Emerald Triangle — the largest cannabis-producing region in the United States. He was part of the “215 Movement” in 1996, which legalized medical cannabis in California and paved the way for the nation’s broader legalization movement.

“I was the first micro-license given in the state of California and the first solventless rosin-producing company in California (Rosin Tech Labs),” he said.

Today, King travels the world speaking to audiences and promoting his agricultural products — a feat that landed him in Austin for the first time last October for The Taste of Texas Hemp Cup. During that visit, King said he observed something special about The Lone Star State.

“Texas shows up,” he said.

King has watched the tenacity continue in recent months, as advocates have appeared at the state capitol in droves to testify against bills that would ban all or most consumable hemp products.

“Being a pioneer myself to where cannabis is at today, it’s very, very important to show up in numbers and have the support,” King said. “When it came through in Northern California, nobody wanted to show up and do any activism. And that was a problem because there were just a few of us that would go to do all these events, that would show up at the capitol, that would actually read the bills and try to do our due diligence and report back to the community. When we asked the community to show up and help us, they wouldn’t do it.”

While some would offer monetary support, King recalls the reluctance of the community to take a public stand.

“But then when we didn’t get our way, those same people, all they did was cry and complain,” he said. “And my thing is, ‘Hey man, shut up or show up.’ And Texas shows up! That’s what happens here in Texas.”

On April 13, King returned to Austin for a meet and greet at Brite Ideas Hydroponics. He also appeared on the Texas Hemp Show, where he expressed his interest in expanding relationships in the area.

“If anybody wants to do some collabs, I want to get invested in this community,” he said. “I love you guys, I see what you’re doing, and I support you.”

Those interested in collaborating should email patrick@thesoilking.com.

During his time on The Texas Hemp Show, King discussed his passion for living soil and probiotic farming.

“When you’re dealing with probiotic farming, the same soil-born probiotic is the same microbiome as in your body,” he said. “So when you’re growing and get your soils right, you’re producing health to your body, and it’s a reciprocal relationship from earth to soul, and that’s how you get healthy.”

King boasts a “super clean” collection of farming products — including his King Kashi compost and Big Rootz Soil — which can be purchased at thesoilking.com.


Whitney: Economic Impact of the Texas Hemp Industry

Total Market Value: The Texas hemp-derived cannabinoid industry generates $5.5 billion annually.

• Retail Sales: The retail sector alone contributes $4.3 billion in revenue.

• Overall Economic Impact: The industry supports $10.2 billion in total economic activity.

• Tax Contributions: Hemp-derived cannabinoid sales generate $267.7 million in annual state sales tax revenue.

• Job Creation: The industry employs 53,382 workers, paying out $2.1 billion in wages.

Potential Economic Loss if SB 3 Passes

• Business Closures: Approximately 6,350 businesses would be forced to shut down.

• Job Losses: An estimated 40,201 workers would lose their jobs.

• Wage Decline: Texas workers would lose $1.6 billion in wages.

• Economic Shrinkage: A $10.2 billion reduction in economic activity.

• Tax Revenue Loss: Texas would forgo $267.7 million in annual sales tax.

 

Industry Health & Growth Trends

• Profitability93% of hemp businesses are either profitable or breaking even.

• Retail Growth: The number of registered retail locations increased from 5,072 in 2022 to 7,550 in 2024.

• Wage Increases: Average wages in retail rose from $14.19/hour in 2023 to $17.83/hour in 2025.

• Diversification: The industry has expanded beyond CBD into Delta-8, Delta-9, THCA, CBG, CBN, and HHC products.

• Texas Supply Chain: Most Texas hemp businesses source materials from multiple states but prioritize in-state suppliers.

Regulatory Uncertainty & Business Risks

• Top Business Concern: The primary risk cited by hemp businesses is state and federal regulatory changes.

• Federal Oversight: The FDA has not identified a public safety crisis related to converted cannabinoids.

• State-Level Crackdowns: States that have enacted similar restrictions, like Oregon, saw millions in lost revenue and disrupted supply chains.

Policy Recommendations

• Avoid Prohibition: Rather than banning hemp-derived cannabinoids, regulation should focus on product safety, age restrictions, and clear labeling.

• Support Economic Stability: Restricting the industry would disrupt thousands of jobs and millions in tax revenuewithout clear public safety benefits.

• Encourage Collaboration: A balanced regulatory approach could maintain public safety while allowing Texas businesses to continue growing.

Americans Get Political News from Podcasters

The media landscape in America is undergoing a seismic shift. Traditional cable TV, once the dominant source of political news, is losing its grip as Americans increasingly turn to YouTube for information and analysis. This transformation is fueled by the platform’s accessibility, diversity of content, and ability to connect with audiences in ways cable TV simply cannot. Here’s a look at how YouTube has become a primary source of political news and analysis for millions of Americans, exemplified by some of the most influential political podcasts.

Why Americans Are Turning to YouTube for Political News

1. Diverse Perspectives: Unlike cable TV, which is dominated by a handful of networks with clear political leanings, YouTube offers a vast array of voices from across the political spectrum. This diversity allows viewers to explore multiple perspectives and form their own opinions.

2. On-Demand Content: Cable TV operates on a fixed schedule, while YouTube allows viewers to access political discussions anytime, anywhere. This flexibility is especially appealing to younger audiences accustomed to consuming content on their terms.

3. Unfiltered Conversations: YouTube video podcasts often feature long-form discussions that dive deeper into topics than the soundbites and curated debates on cable news. This format fosters nuanced conversations and provides a more comprehensive understanding of issues.

4. Direct Engagement: Viewers can comment, share, and interact with content creators, fostering a sense of community and dialogue. This level of engagement is missing from traditional cable TV.

5. Distrust in Traditional Media: Growing skepticism about mainstream media bias has led many Americans to seek alternative sources of news and analysis. YouTube’s decentralized model gives independent creators the freedom to address topics that cable networks might avoid.

The Rise of Political News Podcasts on YouTube

Here are 10 of the most influential YouTube video podcasts that illustrate how Americans are consuming political news in the digital age:

It’s not on the list but is one of the most politically-heated personalities in talk podcasting for Obvious reasons is Tucker Carlson on X.

The former FOX News anchor has broken out on his won with plenty of success after being let go from Fox in late 2023.

1. The Joe Rogan Experience

Impact: Joe Rogan’s discussions often touch on political issues, featuring guests from all sides of the spectrum. His open-ended format allows for in-depth exploration of topics rarely covered by mainstream media.

Why It Works: Rogan’s authentic, conversational style resonates with audiences tired of scripted debates.

2. The Alex Jones Show (on X)

Impact: Known for its provocative content, Alex Jones’ show delves into controversial political topics. His unapologetic approach attracts viewers seeking alternative perspectives.

Why It Works: Offers a counter-narrative to mainstream political reporting.

3. PBD Podcast (Valuetainment)

Impact: Patrick Bet-David invites politicians, thought leaders, and entrepreneurs to discuss the intersection of politics, economics, and culture.

Why It Works: Combines analytical depth with actionable insights, appealing to politically curious viewers.

4. Redacted

Impact: This podcast explores geopolitics and U.S. domestic issues, often critiquing mainstream media narratives.

Why It Works: Provides alternative analyses of global and national events, empowering viewers to question the status quo.

5. The Sean Ryan Show

Impact: Hosted by a former Navy SEAL, this show often examines politics through the lens of military and national security issues.

Why It Works: Combines expertise with candid conversations, offering a fresh take on political topics.

6. The Danny Jones Podcast

Impact: Danny Jones tackles political and social issues, often inviting diverse guests to provide unique perspectives.

Why It Works: Covers controversial topics with a bold, open-minded approach.

7. Piers Morgan: Uncensored

Impact: Piers Morgan interviews politicians and cultural figures, offering sharp commentary on current events.

Why It Works: Combines traditional journalistic expertise with modern, opinion-driven discourse.

8. Michael Franzese

Impact: While primarily known for sharing stories from his mobster past, Michael Franzese often touches on political themes, connecting historical and modern dynamics.

Why It Works: Blends personal anecdotes with political insights, creating a unique storytelling format.

9. Next News Network

Impact: An independent news outlet providing breaking news and political commentary, often critical of mainstream media narratives.

Why It Works: Appeals to viewers seeking alternative reporting on national and global events.

10. The Rubin Report

Impact: Dave Rubin’s show fosters discussions on politics, free speech, and cultural issues, often featuring high-profile guests.

Why It Works: Promotes intellectual dialogue and open debate in a polarized media environment.

The Future of Political News Consumption

As YouTube continues to grow, its influence on political discourse will only deepen. Here’s what this shift means for the future of media:

1. Decentralization of Power: The rise of independent creators is reducing the dominance of traditional media conglomerates.

2. Empowered Audiences: Viewers now have the tools to explore diverse viewpoints and make informed decisions.

3. Greater Accountability: The interactive nature of YouTube fosters a two-way conversation between creators and their audiences, encouraging transparency.

4. Challenges of Misinformation: While YouTube democratizes content creation, it also requires viewers to critically assess the credibility of their sources.

People simply are not buying fake news networks today. Americans and global cultures are evolving and influence is not limited to simply the Big Corporations anymore.

The migration of political news consumption to YouTube reflects a broader desire for authentic, accessible, and diverse content. These video podcasts are not just replacing traditional cable TV—they’re shaping the future of how Americans engage with politics in the digital age.

From Event 201 to the Bird Flu Summit 2024:

Exploring the Possibility of History Repeating Itself

In October 2024, global health leaders, policymakers, and private sector representatives convened in Washington, D.C., for the Bird Flu Pandemic Preparedness Summit. This event, focused on addressing the growing risk of avian influenza, bore striking similarities to Event 201, the 2019 pandemic simulation that foreshadowed many aspects of the real-world COVID-19 crisis. With the hypothetical scenarios modeled at the Bird Flu Summit raising awareness of the potential threat, it has sparked a controversial hypothesis: could this be a harbinger of an imminent bird flu pandemic, just as Event 201 seemingly preceded COVID-19?

Revisiting Event 201 and Its Real-World Parallel

Event 201, hosted in October 2019, was a tabletop exercise simulating a global coronavirus pandemic. Its purpose was to stress-test global systems and identify gaps in pandemic preparedness. Critics and conspiracy theorists have since questioned the timing, noting that COVID-19 emerged mere months later. While experts argue that such simulations are a prudent step in pandemic preparedness, the proximity of the two events fueled speculation and mistrust.

The Bird Flu Summit 2024, like Event 201, simulated a pandemic scenario—this time involving the rapid spread of a highly pathogenic avian influenza strain. Participants explored the global impact of the disease, including overwhelmed healthcare systems, international trade disruptions, and vaccine development challenges. The similarities in structure, themes, and timing have led some to question whether history could repeat itself.

The Bird Flu Threat: A Growing Concern
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has been on global health watchlists for years. Certain strains, such as H5N1 and H5N6, have shown the potential to infect humans, with high mortality rates in cases of zoonotic transmission. In 2023 and 2024, outbreaks among poultry and wild birds surged worldwide, with isolated human cases raising alarms.

The Bird Flu Summit 2024 aimed to preemptively address these concerns, yet it has inadvertently amplified speculation about the possibility of an impending pandemic. The timing of the event—preceding the spring migratory season when avian influenza typically peaks—has added to the unease.

Drawing Parallels: Event 201 vs. Bird Flu Summit 2024

Both events share several key features:

1. Focus on Global Preparedness:
Like Event 201, the Bird Flu Summit emphasized the need for public-private collaboration, rapid vaccine development, and robust communication strategies to combat misinformation.

2. Simulation of a Hypothetical Pandemic:
Each event modeled a fictional pandemic scenario, aiming to highlight vulnerabilities in global systems and prompt preemptive action.

3. Proximity to Real-World Events:
Critics of Event 201 argue that its timing—mere months before COVID-19 emerged—was suspiciously close. Similarly, the Bird Flu Summit’s focus on avian influenza comes amid heightened global outbreaks, leading some to question whether the exercise reflects an imminent reality.

4. The Role of High-Profile Organizations:
Both events were hosted by influential institutions and involved high-level representatives, further fueling conspiracy theories that such exercises are more than just precautionary measures.

Bill Gates and the World Health Organization have been questioned by alternative media like Alex Jones and others that doubt the official narrative of events following 2020.
Is another PLANDEMIC at works here to derail Trumps 2nd term and plummet the United States into lock downs and more chaos.

The Conspiracy Theory: Cause for Concern or Misplaced Fear?

Skeptics argue that such events may serve as precursors—or even catalysts—for real-world pandemics, citing the overlap between Event 201 and COVID-19 as evidence. Proponents of this theory now turn their attention to the Bird Flu Summit, hypothesizing that a bird flu pandemic could materialize in spring 2025, mirroring the timeline of COVID-19’s emergence after Event 201.

However, experts caution against drawing direct correlations. Pandemic simulations are designed to identify weaknesses, not to predict or trigger outbreaks. The rise of zoonotic diseases like avian influenza is more closely tied to ecological factors such as climate change, deforestation, and intensive farming practices, which increase opportunities for animal-to-human
transmission.

Curious as it may be however, mainstream media outlets are noticeable pushing the fear mongering for a coming bird flu. One need only flip on the MSNBS or CNN for the latest in this propaganda based reporting. With Deep State actors afraid of what a Trump administration lead by the likes of RFK Jr, Elon Musk, and others. It does beg questions if there might be another

Why the Bird Flu Summit Matters

Conspiracy theories aside, the Bird Flu Summit
underscored critical issues in pandemic preparedness:

1. Rapid Vaccine Deployment:
Advances in mRNA technology, widely used in COVID-19 vaccines, were a focal point of the summit. Accelerating the development and distribution of bird flu vaccines is a key strategy to mitigate potential outbreaks.

2. Surveillance and Early Warning Systems:
The summit called for strengthening global surveillance of avian influenza to detect outbreaks early and prevent spillover to humans.

3. Public Trust and Communication:
Building public trust through transparent communication was emphasized, especially in combating misinformation—a challenge that plagued COVID-19 responses.

4. Global Cooperation:
The summit highlighted the importance of international collaboration, particularly in addressing vaccine equity and sharing resources during crises.

Preparing for the Worst While Hoping for the Best

Whether or not the Bird Flu Summit 2024 foreshadows an imminent pandemic remains uncertain. While the parallels with Event 201 are compelling, they may ultimately be coincidental. Nevertheless, the ongoing rise in zoonotic diseases reminds us that global health preparedness is more crucial than ever.

Rather than succumbing to fear or speculation, the focus should remain on actionable steps to prevent and mitigate future pandemics. The lessons from both Event 201 and the Bird Flu Summit 2024 are clear: the world must be vigilant, proactive, and united in its approach to emerging health threats.

In the end, preparedness is not a guarantee against pandemics—but it is our best defense. Whether the spring of 2025 brings a bird flu pandemic or not, the steps we take today will define how resilient we are when the next crisis inevitably strikes.

 

 

Rise of the Deep State: Attack of the Drones

The Drone Deception: A Psyop to Push the Narrative of a Fake Alien Invasion

In recent years, reports of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs) have surged, with mainstream media and government agencies amplifying the mystery surrounding these incidents. However, beneath the surface of these headlines lies a compelling and unsettling theory: these drones are not extraterrestrial but rather part of an elaborate psyop orchestrated by Deep State operatives to mislead the public and propagate a deceptive narrative.

The Deep State’s Hidden Agenda

At the heart of this theory is the belief that the Deep State—a shadowy coalition of government, military, and corporate interests—controls advanced technologies and uses them to manipulate public perception. The drones that have captured the public’s imagination are likely U.S. Navy or NASA-operated assets, deployed strategically to create the illusion of unidentified or extraterrestrial origins.

This operation is not a random occurrence but a calculated effort to steer global narratives. By using these drones to foster speculation about alien life, the Deep State can distract from other pressing issues, unify global populations under a fabricated threat, and justify expanded military budgets and surveillance powers.

The Role of the Media

Mainstream media has long been accused of being complicit in state-sponsored propaganda. In this case, it appears they have received marching orders from the Pentagon to perpetuate the mystery of these drones. Despite possessing the resources and investigative capabilities to uncover the true nature of these technologies, media outlets continue to describe them as “unknown” or “unexplained.”

By doing so, they amplify the aura of uncertainty and wonder, nudging public opinion toward a narrative of extraterrestrial involvement. This serves the Deep State’s goals, ensuring that the population remains captivated and distracted while larger geopolitical or technological plans unfold behind the scenes.

The Project Blue Beam Connection

This theory aligns closely with discussions of Project Blue Beam, a purported operation designed to deceive global populations through advanced technologies. Project Blue Beam allegedly involves:

Light Show Technology: Holographic projections capable of simulating celestial phenomena, alien spacecraft, or religious figures.

High-Frequency Audio: Techniques to create voices or sounds directly in the minds of unsuspecting individuals.

Satellite Imagery: Tools to produce convincing visuals of events in the sky, further solidifying the illusion of extraterrestrial activity or divine intervention.

The drones observed today could be a precursor to such a staged event, testing public reactions and fine-tuning the technological capabilities required for a large-scale deception.

The Endgame: A New World Order

The ultimate goal of this psyop, according to the theory, is to establish a New World Order. By uniting humanity under the threat of a common enemy—whether aliens or some other fabricated menace—the Deep State can consolidate power, impose stricter controls, and reconfigure societal structures to serve their interests.

This strategy aligns with historical patterns, where fear and crisis have often been used as tools to expand government authority. The alien invasion narrative is merely the next iteration of this tactic, leveraging cutting-edge technology to achieve unprecedented levels of influence.

Conclusion

While skeptics may dismiss this theory as conspiratorial, it invites critical examination of the narratives fed to us by powerful institutions. Are we witnessing genuine unidentified phenomena, or are we being manipulated by a calculated campaign of deception?

The truth may lie hidden in the shadows, but questioning the official narrative is the first step toward uncovering it. As we continue to explore these phenomena, it is crucial to remain vigilant, skeptical, and aware of the broader context in which these events unfold.

In the end, the drones may not be a harbinger of alien life but a stark reminder of how easily perception can be shaped by those in power.

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