Podcast Summary: The Glenn Beck Program | Guest: Matt Van Swol | July 29, 2025

Introduction

In this special "Best of the Program" episode of The Glenn Beck Program hosted by Blaze Podcast Network, Glenn Beck engages in critical discussions surrounding American media, immigration policies, and the impact of recent hurricanes. The episode features guest Matt Van Swol, a North Carolina hurricane victim, who shares his personal experiences and insights. Additionally, Glenn Beck delivers a poignant message addressing the youth of America, emphasizing the importance of historical awareness and responsible activism.

1. Critique of CNN's Reporting on Alligator Alcatraz

Timestamp: 01:59 - 07:48

Glenn Beck opens the episode with a sharp critique of CNN's coverage of "Alligator Alcatraz," a newly constructed detention facility in Florida. He argues that CNN's portrayal is misleading and sensationalized, aiming to evoke sympathy rather than provide factual reporting.

• Glenn Beck (02:00): "We're just sitting there looking at CNN. They're showing these pictures of famine, famished children that, you know, they say they're not being fed. Well, show me the parents..."

Beck, along with co-host Pat Gray, dissect CNN's 3D modeling of the facility, questioning the authenticity and purpose behind such dramatizations. They highlight the overcrowded conditions, lack of basic amenities, and the deceptive narrative constructed by mainstream media.

• Pat Gray (04:21): "This clip is amazing. Sarah Gonzalez on her show was showing this to Pat and I yesterday and we were just flabbergasted by it."

The discussion emphasizes the discrepancy between CNN's reports and the reality on the ground, suggesting that the media is creating a biased narrative to push for gun control and stricter immigration policies.

• Glenn Beck (06:07): "Let me translate. Hopefully white."

Beck and Gray challenge the portrayal of detainees, arguing that the conditions at Alligator Alcatraz are not as dire as depicted and that the media is using fearmongering tactics to influence public opinion.

2. Interview with Hurricane Helene Victim Matt Van Swol

Timestamp: 15:05 - 25:30

Matt Van Swol joins Glenn Beck to discuss the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina. He shares his frustration with the government's inadequate response and the lack of media coverage despite the evident devastation.

• Matt Van Swol (16:08): "We were pretty liberal during that time... I think I sent your producer some photos of my son in, like, a Black Lives Matter onesie."

Van Swol recounts his disillusionment with mainstream media outlets like CNN and MSNBC, which he felt ignored the severity of the hurricane's impact. He details his efforts to document the unfolding crisis through videos and drone footage, only to receive little to no attention from major news organizations.

• Matt Van Swol (17:30): "There were no homes delivered between September 27 and the middle of November, zero. And you think there are people sleeping in tents all over. And I thought, this would be on the news. This would be the news. And it just never was."

The conversation delves into the challenges Van Swol faced in seeking help from agencies like FEMA and the disappointment in how political interests overshadowed genuine disaster response efforts.

• Glenn Beck (19:14): "I get it. I was there. But that's not true."

Van Swol expresses gratitude towards Glenn Beck and his team for providing a platform to voice overlooked issues, highlighting the role of independent media in bringing hidden truths to light.

3. Glenn Beck’s Message to the Youth of America

Timestamp: 25:39 - End

In a heartfelt monologue, Glenn Beck addresses the younger generation, urging them to be vigilant and informed to prevent history from repeating its darkest chapters. He draws parallels between past youth movements manipulated by authoritarian regimes and contemporary activism movements.

• Glenn Beck (30:00): "The Hitler Youth brainwashed millions of German children into Nazi ideology... They wanted to be involved in something bigger."

Beck warns against the dangers of allowing youthful idealism to be exploited for malicious purposes, emphasizing the importance of understanding historical contexts to foster responsible activism.

• Glenn Beck (35:00): "To the youth of America, I know you want to change the world. Just don't you want to make sure that you're on the right side of right and wrong?"

He encourages young listeners to pursue genuine change grounded in truth and reason, rather than being swayed by charismatic leaders who may have ulterior motives.

• Glenn Beck (45:00): "Because real change never comes from the odds. It comes from the people. And usually young people."

Beck concludes by expressing optimism for the future, believing that the youth possess the resilience and integrity needed to shape a brighter tomorrow, provided they remain informed and cautious.

Conclusion

This episode of The Glenn Beck Program offers a blend of critical media analysis, personal narratives, and motivational discourse aimed at empowering listeners to seek truth and engage responsibly in societal issues. Through guest Matt Van Swol’s experiences and Beck’s reflective insights, the program underscores the significance of independent journalism and the crucial role of the younger generation in steering the nation towards a just and informed future.

Notable Quotes:

• Glenn Beck (02:00): "We're just sitting there looking at CNN. They're showing these pictures of famine... show me the parents..."

• Matt Van Swol (17:30): "There were no homes delivered... I thought, this would be on the news."

• Glenn Beck (35:00): "To the youth of America, I know you want to change the world. Just don't you want to make sure that you're on the right side of right and wrong?"

• Glenn Beck (45:00): "Real change never comes from the odds. It comes from the people. And usually young people."

Final Thoughts

For listeners seeking a critical perspective on media narratives and the intersection of politics and personal experiences during crises, this episode provides a comprehensive exploration. Additionally, Glenn Beck’s impassioned appeal to the youth serves as a call to action for informed and conscientious participation in shaping the nation’s future.