PBD Podcast Episode 591: "No One's EVER Seen This" James O’Keefe BREAKS Epstein Files, FBI RAID Plot & Project Veritas Split
Release Date: May 26, 2025
Host: Patrick Bet-David (Pat)
Guests: Ryan Reynolds and James O’Keefe
Introduction and Background
In this compelling episode of the PBD Podcast, host Patrick Bet-David engages in a deep and revealing conversation with Ryan Reynolds and investigative journalist James O’Keefe. The primary focus centers on the internal dynamics and eventual split within Project Veritas, O'Keefe's subsequent FBI raid, and the unveiling of sensitive Epstein files.
Project Veritas Split and Internal Conflicts
Timestamp [03:02] – [09:57]
James O’Keefe provides an in-depth account of his departure from Project Veritas, detailing a tumultuous board meeting that led to his indefinite suspension and eventual termination. He explains the grievances raised by board members, which included bizarre and unfounded accusations such as allegedly "eating an eight-month pregnant woman's sandwich" and inappropriate use of black SUVs for transportation.
James states:
“They just wanted to make me feel abused. It was a lot of envy and just petty human things that this is not unique. It happens in a lot of organizations.”
[02:41]
He further elaborates on the board members' conflicts of interest, revealing that several were financially invested in companies poised to be acquired by Pfizer, which they failed to disclose due to Project Veritas’s conflict of interest policies. This lack of transparency contributed significantly to the board’s decision to oust him.
Financial Mismanagement and Board Manipulation
Timestamp [09:36] – [21:37]
O’Keefe discusses how board members such as Matthew Tiermond orchestrated his removal by leveraging financial discrepancies and personal vendettas. He reveals that his board members covertly invested in pharmaceutical companies without his knowledge, undermining the organization’s integrity.
A notable moment occurs during a federal deposition:
O’Keefe: “I could tell by the looks on their faces that they didn't want to be there. It was crazy. It was wrong, but they did it.”
[52:25]
James highlights the problematic nature of the board's actions, including the tragic suicide of board member Steve Alemic, which occurred within a year of O’Keefe's termination. The board's decision-making process was marred by internal strife and unethical practices, leading to significant financial instability within Project Veritas.
FBI Raid and Seizure of Information
Timestamp [51:16] – [54:15]
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the FBI’s raid on O’Keefe’s newsroom. He describes the harrowing experience of being confronted by FBI agents who seized his personal devices, granting them access to his Signal messages containing sensitive information from government insiders.
O’Keefe asserts:
“The Department of Justice... gave me back my phones that they had for three and a half years. Every word is redacted.”
[52:35]
He criticizes the lack of transparency, noting that the probable cause for the raid was entirely redacted, raising serious concerns about governmental overreach and the suppression of journalistic freedom.
Exposure of Epstein Files and Ongoing Investigations
Timestamp [05:22] – [10:45]
The conversation delves into the release of substantial Epstein files, uncovering hidden aspects of his operations and connections with high-profile individuals. O’Keefe discusses the release of videos and documents that shed light on Epstein’s activities, including mutated virus research at Pfizer and illicit interactions with influential figures.
James refers to a documentary titled "Truth Inside Veritas," which chronicles these revelations:
“It shows what happened at the board meeting... it was an insane story. It's a crazy story.”
[04:51]
The guests touch upon the controversial nature of these exposures and the resistance faced from powerful entities eager to conceal wrongdoing.
Ethical Considerations and Journalistic Integrity
Timestamp [61:09] – [85:16]
A significant theme is the ethical landscape of investigative journalism. O’Keefe emphasizes the personal risks and moral dilemmas involved in exposing powerful figures. He shares his philosophy on unwavering commitment to truth, even in the face of intimidation and legal battles.
Ryan Reynolds reflects on the necessity of surrounding oneself with individuals of strong integrity to maintain journalistic independence:
“I have to be careful. But I hear what you're saying. This is incredibly suspicious.”
[112:26]
They discuss the importance of accountability, the challenges in maintaining trust, and the internal conflicts that arise when investigating corruption within governmental and influential organizations.
Challenges in Exposing High-Profile Corruption
Timestamp [85:11] – [100:27]
The dialogue moves to the difficulties in uncovering and releasing information about top-tier individuals like Anthony Fauci and Leon Black. O’Keefe admits struggles in securing breakthroughs against esteemed figures, attributing these challenges to their perceived invincibility and the sophisticated measures they employ to protect themselves.
James proposes strategic approaches to target such individuals:
“Very difficult thing to do. If you're going after the most powerful people in the world... you have to find people who are completely unbreakable.”
[90:12]
O’Keefe shares ongoing efforts to release incriminating evidence and the personal toll it takes on him, highlighting cases where significant information remains suppressed despite its potential public interest.
Personal Reflections and Future Endeavors
Timestamp [100:37] – End
As the episode concludes, O’Keefe reflects on the personal sacrifices and dangers inherent in his work. He draws parallels to historical figures like Gary Webb, underscoring the emotional and psychological burdens of relentless truth-seeking.
James encourages listeners to watch the accompanying documentary to gain a deeper understanding of the events discussed:
“We're going to put the link below to go watch the documentary.”
[114:15]
The episode wraps up with a mutual acknowledgment of the relentless pursuit of truth and the necessity of maintaining integrity in the face of formidable opposition.
Notable Quotes
-
James O’Keefe on Termination:
“They just wanted to make me feel abused. It was a lot of envy and just petty human things...”
[02:41] -
O’Keefe on FBI Raid:
“When you get a search warrant to conduct a raid, you have to go to a judge with a reason...”
[52:25] -
Ryan Reynolds on Journalistic Integrity:
“I commit to you that I will do this. It’s a really dangerous job...”
[101:28] -
O’Keefe on Building a Sustainable Organization:
“I think the solution is to find really strong people with really strong convictions who are not for sale and unbreakable.”
[35:09]
Conclusion
This episode of the PBD Podcast offers a rare and unfiltered glimpse into the tumultuous events surrounding Project Veritas and James O’Keefe’s investigative pursuits. Through candid discussions, the podcast sheds light on internal organizational conflicts, the challenges of exposing high-profile corruption, and the personal sacrifices made in the quest for truth. Notably, the episode also touches upon the broader implications of governmental overreach and the fragile state of journalistic integrity in today's complex socio-political landscape.
For those interested in delving deeper, the podcast recommends viewing the documentary "Truth Inside Veritas Part One," which provides a cinematic exploration of the stories discussed.
Recommended Viewing:
Watch the documentary "Truth Inside Veritas Part One" at www.okefemediagroup.com for an in-depth understanding of the events discussed in this episode.