Conspirituality Podcast: Bonus Sample – "American Oligarchy and the Kremlin Wizard"

Release Date: March 31, 2025

Introduction

In the bonus sample episode of Conspirituality, hosts Derek Beres, Matthew Remski, and Julian Walker delve into the intricate web of American oligarchy and its ties to Russian influence. The episode titled "American Oligarchy and the Kremlin Wizard" explores the historical parallels between post-Soviet Russia's rise of oligarchs and the current political landscape in the United States. Julian Walker sets the stage by examining the role of oligarchs in shaping political narratives and influencing public opinion.

Historical Context of Russian Oligarchy

Julian Walker opens the discussion by tracing the origins and evolution of the term "oligarch." Traditionally associated with ancient Greece, the term gained prominence in the post-Soviet era of Russia during the 1990s. Walker explains:

"When the USSR collapsed in the 1990s, Russia became emblematic of the rise of oligarchy."
- Julian Walker [00:03]

He further elaborates on Vladimir Putin's ascent to power in the early 2000s, highlighting how Putin systematically brought the Russian oligarchs under his control, transforming himself into a dominant political figure akin to a mob boss.

"Putin would bring the oligarchs to heel like a true mob boss."
- Julian Walker [00:03]

Parallels Between Russian Oligarchy and American Politics

The episode draws compelling parallels between the Russian oligarchic model and the current state of American politics. Walker posits that the concentration of wealth and influence in the hands of a few American billionaires mirrors the Russian oligarch system. He discusses how figures like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg wield significant power over public discourse and political outcomes.

"These images tell a thousand words about how in the run-up to the election, big business and especially big tech trended hard toward MAGA."
- Julian Walker [02:15]

Influence of Tech Giants and Wealthy Elites

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the influential roles of tech moguls and billionaires in shaping political narratives. Walker highlights key events and actions taken by these figures that align with oligarchic tendencies:

• Elon Musk and Twitter: Musk's acquisition of Twitter is scrutinized for its implications on free speech and the platform's role in amplifying certain political messages. Walker notes Musk's donation of $288 million, suggesting it facilitates his ambitions while blurring the lines between government regulation and personal gain.

  "Under Elon's rule, Twitter welcomed back white supremacists and conspiracy theorists and aggressively supported Trump algorithmically."
  - Julian Walker [03:45]

• Mark Zuckerberg's Content Moderation Shift: Zuckerberg's decision to reduce content moderation and fact-checking is discussed as a strategic move to align more closely with MAGA interests. The settlement of a $25 million lawsuit over the suspension of Trump's accounts exemplifies this trend.

  "Mark Zuckerberg publicly announced shifts away from content moderation and fact-checking, and then paid Trump $25 million to settle a lawsuit."
  - Julian Walker [03:10]

• Peter Thiel’s Political Contributions: The influence of Peter Thiel is examined through his substantial donations to political campaigns, such as the $25 million pledged to JD Vance's Senate campaign. Thiel's investments in surveillance technology via Palantir and his role in the Thiel Fellowship program are highlighted as mechanisms of exerting control and shaping future leaders.

  "Peter Thiel was one of the primary investors in Facebook and owns the scariest surveillance tech company on the planet, Palantir."
  - Julian Walker [04:30]

Russian Influence and American Polarization

Walker emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between Russian propaganda and American political polarization. He argues that Russian strategies under Putin have successfully sown discord in the U.S. by supporting fringe movements and spreading disinformation.

"Russian influence underpins the polarization of post-truth America today."
- Julian Walker [00:03]

The episode explores how this foreign interference has been facilitated by American elites who inadvertently or intentionally propagate Russian-aligned narratives, thereby destabilizing the political landscape.

Conclusion and Call to Action

As the episode draws to a close, Walker underscores the dangers of unchecked oligarchic power and foreign influence in undermining democratic institutions. He calls for greater awareness and resistance against the amalgamation of wealth, power, and disinformation.

"As independent media creators, we really appreciate your support."
- Unknown Speaker [05:00]

The hosts encourage listeners to engage with Conspirituality through platforms like Patreon and Apple subscriptions to access more in-depth analyses and exclusive content.

Key Takeaways

• Oligarchic Influence: The concentration of wealth and power among tech moguls in the U.S. mirrors the oligarchic structures seen in post-Soviet Russia.

• Russian Propaganda: Vladimir Putin's strategies have effectively contributed to the polarization and destabilization of American politics through disinformation and support of fringe movements.

• Tech Giants as Power Brokers: Figures like Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Peter Thiel play pivotal roles in shaping political discourse and enabling oligarchic control over public narratives.

• Call for Independent Media: The episode underscores the importance of independent journalism in combating the spread of misinformation and resisting authoritarian influences.

Notable Quotes

• "When the USSR collapsed in the 1990s, Russia became emblematic of the rise of oligarchy."
  - Julian Walker [00:03]

• "These images tell a thousand words about how in the run-up to the election, big business and especially big tech trended hard toward MAGA."
  - Julian Walker [02:15]

• "Under Elon's rule, Twitter welcomed back white supremacists and conspiracy theorists and aggressively supported Trump algorithmically."
  - Julian Walker [03:45]

• "Peter Thiel was one of the primary investors in Facebook and owns the scariest surveillance tech company on the planet, Palantir."
  - Julian Walker [04:30]

This summary provides an in-depth overview of the bonus sample episode of Conspirituality, highlighting the critical intersections of oligarchic influence, Russian propaganda, and the role of tech giants in shaping modern political landscapes.