Podcast Summary: The Glenn Beck Program | Guest: Duncan Stroik | December 13, 2024

Published on December 13, 2024

Introduction

In the December 13th episode of The Glenn Beck Program aired on the Blaze Podcast Network, host Stu Burguiere delves into a blend of historical insights, contemporary political analysis, and architectural preservation. The episode features a compelling interview with Duncan Stroik, a professor of architecture at the University of Notre Dame, who provides an in-depth look at the restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral. Additionally, the program explores themes ranging from government transparency in the face of UFO sightings to the implications of recent presidential pardons.

Orson Welles and the "War of the Worlds" Broadcast

The episode opens with a nostalgic recount of a pivotal moment in radio history: Orson Welles' infamous 1938 broadcast of H.G. Wells' War of the Worlds. Stu Burguiere draws parallels between the societal impact of that broadcast and today's digital media landscape.

Stu Burguiere [07:04]: "We have been here before... people went crazy ever since."

Welles' dramatization led to widespread panic, showcasing the power of media to influence public perception. Burguiere emphasizes the enduring lesson about media trust and manipulation.

Stu Burguiere [09:26]: "The great disillusionment."

He questions the similarities between past and present media consumption, particularly in how information is disseminated and trusted.

Modern Parallels: Media Trust and Technology

Burguiere draws a direct line from the 1938 broadcast to today's challenges with trust in media and the rapid proliferation of information through smartphones and social media. He highlights society's struggle with distinguishing reliable information from misinformation.

Stu Burguiere [11:38]: "America heard this over and over and over again."

This section serves as a cautionary tale about the susceptibility of audiences to media-driven narratives and the importance of critical engagement with information sources.

UFOs and Drones in New Jersey: Government Transparency Under Scrutiny

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing recent unidentified flying object (UFO) sightings over New Jersey. Burguiere raises critical questions about government transparency and the possible existence of advanced drone technology:

Stu Burguiere [08:13]: "Are we being scrutinized? Is everything we're doing being monitored, catalogued?"

He outlines the government's inconsistent responses to drone sightings and speculates on the potential involvement of foreign powers like China and Russia. The discussion underscores concerns about national security and technological superiority.

Guest Insights: Jason Butrill's Perspective

Jason Butrill, the chief researcher and former military intelligence officer, joins the conversation to shed light on the complexities surrounding these UAV sightings. Together, they explore the implications of advanced, undetectable drone technology and its potential origins.

Jason Butrill [31:01]: "Everything is a psyop. Everything is a deep state psyop."

Butrill posits that recent pardons and governmental actions may be part of broader psychological operations aimed at misdirection and control.

Presidential Pardons: Analyzing Joe Biden's Decisions

Burguiere transitions to a critical analysis of President Joe Biden's recent pardons, highlighting the controversial release of individuals convicted of nonviolent crimes, including Chinese spies and those possessing child pornography.

Stu Burguiere [30:56]: "President Joe Biden is commuting the sentences of 1500 Americans... pardoning 39 individuals who were convicted of nonviolent crimes."

He questions the motivations behind these pardons, suggesting they may be politically motivated or part of larger strategic maneuvers within the administration.

Stu Burguiere [34:14]: "He's just pardoned Chinese spies who are known for their drones."

The discussion raises alarms about national security and the potential undermining of governmental authority through such high-profile pardons.

Interview with Duncan Stroik: Notre Dame's Architectural Restoration

The heart of the episode features an enlightening interview with Duncan Stroik, an esteemed architect and professor at the University of Notre Dame. The conversation centers on the meticulous restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral following the devastating fire and the subsequent efforts to preserve its historical and architectural integrity.

Duncan Stroik [39:22]: "They rebuilt it exactly the way it was, including with medieval axes... hand made joinery."

Stroik praises the dedication of the restoration team, particularly Philippe Villeneuve, who resisted pressures to modernize the cathedral's design, maintaining its Gothic essence.

Duncan Stroik [43:37]: "They rebuilt the exactly the way it was... with dovetails and mortise and tenons."

The discussion highlights the importance of preserving architectural heritage and the role of craftsmanship in maintaining the authenticity and spiritual significance of historical structures.

Duncan Stroik [46:54]: "There's something beautiful about the hand. I'm with you. And I really want us."

Stroik emphasizes the irreplaceable value of handmade artistry in architecture, contrasting it with the mechanization and automation prevalent in modern construction practices.

Modern Technology vs. Traditional Craftsmanship

Stu Burguiere and Duncan Stroik explore the tensions between modern technological advancements and traditional craftsmanship. Stroik advocates for the preservation of hands-on techniques, arguing that they imbue structures with authenticity and soul.

Stu Burguiere [47:45]: "I think the more we get into AI, there's going to be a real problem of dislocation of people and artists."

Duncan Stroik [46:21]: "They look identical."

Stroik recounts his personal experiences with masterpieces like Michelangelo's David, underscoring the irreplaceable quality of human touch in art and architecture.

Conclusion

The December 13th episode of The Glenn Beck Program weaves together historical insights, current political debates, and passionate advocacy for architectural preservation. Through engaging discussions and expert interviews, Stu Burguiere provides listeners with a thought-provoking analysis of media influence, governmental transparency, and the timeless value of craftsmanship. The episode underscores the enduring relevance of understanding our past to navigate contemporary challenges effectively.

Notable Quotes

• Stu Burguiere [07:04]: "We have been here before... people went crazy ever since."

• Stu Burguiere [31:07]: "Now they're being brought to him."

• Jason Butrill [31:01]: "Everything is a psyop. Everything is a deep state psyop."

• Duncan Stroik [43:37]: "They rebuilt it exactly the way it was, including with medieval axes... hand made joinery."

• Duncan Stroik [46:54]: "There's something beautiful about the hand. I'm with you. And I really want us."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the podcast episode, providing a coherent narrative for those who may not have listened to the original broadcast.