Badlands Media

DEFCON ZERQ Ep. 037: Info Warfare, Influencer Collapse, Global Patriotism

In this episode, Alpha Warrior and Josh Reid break down the evolving battlefield of modern information warfare and what they see as the collapse of the influencer ecosystem. They explore how misinformation spreads, why prominent voices keep getting it wrong, and what that signals about a larger “cleanup phase” in media and politics.
The conversation dives deep into fifth-generation warfare, where narratives, algorithms, and perception shape reality more than traditional weapons. The hosts also touch on global patriotism, social media’s role in connecting like-minded movements, and how geopolitical tensions, including discussions around Iran, fit into a broader strategic framework.
If you have ever wondered whether information itself is the real battlefield, this episode makes the case loud and clear.

Badlands Story Hour Ep. 161 - The Men Who Stare at Goats

Chris Paul and Burning Bright dive into The Men Who Stare at Goats, unpacking a film that blends humor with surprisingly serious subject matter rooted in real-world military experimentation and psychological operations. The discussion explores the contrast between the movie’s comedic tone and the deeper implications found in the source material, including themes of perception, manipulation, and unconventional warfare. They examine how ideas like psyops and behavioral influence can be just as powerful as physical force, reflecting on how information itself can shape reality and compliance. Along the way, they touch on the cultural impact of the film’s cast and characters, the role of investigative journalism behind the story, and how narratives evolve over time as audience awareness changes.

Badlands Book Club: Stolen Elections - Chapter 12

Hosted by CannCon and Ashe in America, with guest Colonel Towner Watkins, this episode of Badlands Book Club continues the deep dive into Stolen Elections, focusing on Chapter 12 and its examination of election manipulation mechanisms and systemic vulnerabilities. The discussion walks through the specific tactics outlined in the chapter, highlighting how processes can be influenced at multiple levels and where oversight appears to break down. Colonel Towner Watkins brings additional perspective to the conversation, helping to contextualize the material and clarify the broader implications of what’s presented. Together, they explore the patterns, supporting examples, and key takeaways from the chapter, emphasizing what viewers should pay attention to as the narrative around election integrity continues to evolve.

Geopolitics with Ghost Ep. 96: Cuba Backchannel Talks, Iran Escalation, and Israel Under Fire - 3/31/26

Ghost opens with developments out of Cuba, highlighting reports that Raul Castro is directly involved in early-stage backchannel discussions with the United States, raising questions about who actually holds power within the Cuban regime and what these talks signal geopolitically.
The focus then shifts to the Middle East, where escalating tensions with Iran dominate the conversation. Ghost breaks down conflicting narratives around negotiations, noting that while both sides acknowledge contact, it appears to be a mix of indirect messaging, threats, and proxy communication rather than formal diplomacy.
He also analyzes rapidly developing military events, including missile strikes on Tel Aviv, uncertainty around whether attacks are coming directly from Iran or allied groups like Hezbollah or the Houthis, and the growing complexity of the conflict environment.
The episode closes with a deeper look at Israel’s position, covering economic strain from the ongoing war, attacks on critical infrastructure like the Haifa refinery, and controversial internal policy moves such as new death penalty legislation for Palestinians—pointing to intensifying pressure both externally and internally.

Badlands Media Special Coverage - President Trump Signs New Executive Orders

President Trump delivers remarks while signing a new set of executive orders focused on strengthening domestic policy priorities, economic protections, and national security measures. The event highlights key actions aimed at reinforcing American industry, addressing regulatory overreach, and advancing the administration’s broader policy agenda through executive authority.
Throughout the signing, Trump outlines the intent behind each order, emphasizing economic growth, government accountability, and protections for American workers. He also addresses questions surrounding implementation, coordination with federal agencies, and how these actions align with ongoing legislative efforts.
The event provides insight into the administration’s current priorities, signaling a continued push to use executive power to drive policy outcomes while navigating political challenges in Washington.

The Daily Herold: 3/31/26 - Truth vs Accountability, Supreme Court Free Speech Ruling, and Iran War Escalation Concerns

Jon Herold opens the show by breaking down the results of his recent poll on the biggest issue facing society, arguing that while accountability, courage, and critical thinking all matter, truth is the foundational problem underlying everything. He explains how a lack of shared truth makes accountability impossible, distorts critical thinking, and misdirects courage in an increasingly chaotic information war.
From there, Jon moves through a series of major headlines, including a controversial story involving Kristi Noem’s husband that he frames as another example of dysfunction among political elites, and a broader critique of the cultural environment surrounding those in power.
He also covers a Supreme Court decision striking down Colorado’s ban on conversion therapy for minors, emphasizing the court’s stance on protecting free speech, even in controversial contexts. Meanwhile, Jon highlights growing tensions around the Iran conflict, discussing military strategy, uncertainty around ground troop involvement, and the broader geopolitical implications, including oil disruptions and pressure on global supply chains.
Additional topics include rising gas prices tied to the conflict, a proposed whistleblower incentive program from the Treasury, renewed scrutiny over the 2020 census and its political impact, and Trump’s announcement of a large military-related construction project beneath the White House ballroom.
Jon closes by reflecting on election integrity concerns heading into future midterms, arguing that without resolving systemic issues, public perception and outcomes may continue to diverge, reinforcing his central theme: without truth, nothing else can function properly.

Badlands Daily: 3/31/26 - Trade War Signals, Middle East Escalation, and Color Revolution Narrative

CannCon and Ghost focus heavily on geopolitics, breaking down President Trump’s push to rebalance global trade and what they describe as coordinated “color revolution” tactics being used to destabilize public perception and society. The discussion centers on how economic pressure and trade policy are being framed, alongside claims of organized efforts to manipulate narratives domestically and abroad.
They dive deep into the Middle East, analyzing escalating tensions involving Israel and Iran, including theories around collapsing military pressure on Israel, the Strait of Hormuz, and shifting alliances impacting global energy and stability. The hosts explore competing interpretations of Trump’s messaging, questioning whether events are unfolding organically or as part of a controlled geopolitical strategy.
Additional discussion includes a Department of War press conference, media framing of international conflict, and broader questions about whether current global events are being accelerated toward a forced resolution. Throughout the episode, CannCon and Ghost emphasize identifying coordinated messaging, understanding narrative manipulation, and tracking how economic and military signals intersect.

Baseless Conspiracies Ep. 178: Obama “Body Count,” Charlie Kirk Shooting Questions, and a War That Keeps Ending

Jon Herold and Zak Paine return to their ongoing discussion around the so-called “Obama body count,” digging into the idea of suspicious deaths tied to political power and how these narratives continue to circulate. They also react to a developing story involving the shooting of Charlie Kirk, focusing on reports that the ATF could not match the bullet to the alleged weapon, raising serious questions about the official account. Along the way, they briefly touch on the seemingly repetitive cycle of headlines surrounding Iran, highlighting how major geopolitical events are presented and then quickly fade from focus.

Culture of Change Ep. 144: Declaring War on Election Corruption

Ashe in America is joined by Seth Keshel to discuss his book American War on Election Corruption and the research, strategy, and personal experiences behind it. The conversation explores how Keshel approaches election data, what led him to focus on election integrity, and the role of historical context and on-the-ground efforts in understanding what’s happening. Ashe also shares a recent phone call with Tina Peters, prompting discussion about her situation and its connection to the broader election integrity movement. Together, they walk through the themes of the book, the importance of evidence-based analysis, and what it means to actively engage in addressing election-related concerns.

Alphas Make Sandwiches Ep. 65: Rise Attire, Creative Projects, and Community Connection

Hosted by Ashe in America, Christy Lupo, Jackie Espada, and guest Cristina from Rise Attire, this episode blends humor, creativity, and community updates while spotlighting independent business and upcoming Badlands events. Cristina shares what Rise Attire is bringing to GART, including new gear, designs, and a behind-the-scenes look at upcoming projects like a short film and future product drops. The conversation weaves through lighthearted segments like the camera roll challenge, idiom breakdowns, and “this day in history,” alongside ongoing anticipation for Nashville and community meetups. The hosts keep things fun and engaging while highlighting the importance of supporting parallel economy brands, staying creative, and building real-world connections through shared experiences.