The Glenn Beck Program: Best of the Program | Guest: Nathaniel Dean | Released February 7, 2025

Hosted by Glenn Beck on the Blaze Podcast Network, this episode delves into pressing American cultural and political issues, featuring insightful discussions, candid opinions, and a special interview with Nathaniel Dean, the producer of the film "Brave the Dark." Below is a comprehensive summary capturing the key points, notable quotes, and engaging exchanges from the episode.

1. Trump’s Executive Order on Transgender Athletes

[00:30 - 04:38]

Glenn Beck opens the discussion by addressing former President Donald Trump's recent executive order banning transgender athletes from participating in women's sports. He criticizes the backlash from mainstream media, particularly CNN, highlighting what he perceives as a double standard and misrepresentation of the executive order's intent.

Notable Quote:

• Glenn Beck ([02:36]): "Donald Trump signed this week the no man and Women sports executive order."

Beck references J.K. Rowling's social media post, where she congratulates those on the left who campaigned against women and girls' rights, indirectly praising Trump for enforcing what he considers common sense policies.

[03:21 - 04:38]

Pat Gray, Beck's co-host, adds his interpretation, emphasizing Rowling's liberal stance and disapproval of leftist policies on women's issues. The conversation touches on broader themes of gender ideology and its impact on society, including freedom of speech and the rights of women and children.

2. NCAA’s Policy Reversal on Transgender Athletes

[05:01 - 07:47]

Beck critiques the NCAA's recent decision to back down from transgender athletic policies, aligning their new stance with Trump's executive order. He argues that financial motivations, particularly the loss of government funding, influenced this shift.

Notable Quote:

• Glenn Beck ([06:44]): "Why are they doing that, Pat? Why is the NCAA getting out of this?"

Pat Gray suggests that financial strains led the NCAA to abandon progressive policies, underlining the influence of government funding on organizational decisions.

3. Critique of MLB and NFL Diversity Initiatives

[07:01 - 09:23]

The discussion shifts to Major League Baseball (MLB) and the National Football League (NFL), where Beck criticizes their ongoing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. He points out the lack of transgender and female representation in these leagues, questioning the effectiveness and sincerity of these diversity efforts.

Notable Quote:

• Glenn Beck ([08:34]): "The NFL says we're just doing the right thing. We're doing the right thing. Are you?"

Pat Gray humorously counters by noting the existing diversity within the NFL, although Beck remains skeptical about the true intentions behind these initiatives.

4. Samantha Power’s Departure from USAID

[11:07 - 14:01]

Beck discusses the ousting of Samantha Power from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) following the Trump administration's policy changes. He portrays her termination as part of a broader crackdown on progressive policies and accuses USAID of engaging in covert operations to influence foreign governments.

Notable Quote:

• Glenn Beck ([12:00]): "You have to rule. Not guilty. We were trying not to break the law. That's not a value, man."

A Producer interjects, highlighting the personal impact of sudden job losses, while Beck emphasizes the need for accountability and transparency within government agencies.

5. Caller Debate: Defending vs. Criticizing USAID Spending

[32:00 - 42:27]

Beck invites Brian Bennett, a listener from Bittersweet Farm, New York, to defend the spending habits of USAID. The exchange becomes a heated debate over the efficacy and morality of USAID’s foreign aid programs.

Notable Quotes:

• Brian Bennett ([35:33]): "Sending the money to any of those programs is an investment in the future, in winning the hearts and minds."
• Glenn Beck ([32:00]): "I want your taxpayer dollars going for shadow ops from the CIA that are not run by the President or have any oversight whatsoever."

Beck challenges Brian on specific USAID expenditures, such as funding for rebuilding media ecosystems and promoting diversity in foreign societies. The conversation underscores deep ideological divides regarding government intervention, foreign policy, and the allocation of taxpayer funds.

Glenn Beck’s Rebuttal: Beck systematically dismantles Brian’s defenses by questioning the practical outcomes of USAID's programs, arguing that they often lead to corruption and do not effectively alleviate suffering.

6. Special Interview with Nathaniel Dean: "Brave the Dark"

[19:41 - 30:03]

In the latter half of the episode, Glenn Beck welcomes Nathaniel Dean, the producer of "Brave the Dark," a film inspired by Dean’s tumultuous childhood and his transformative relationship with a dedicated teacher. The interview delves into Dean's personal experiences, the making of the film, and its intended impact on audiences.

Notable Quotes:

• Glenn Beck ([28:06]): "I saw you betray him in a way towards the end and what was that like to relive for you?"
• Nathaniel Dean ([20:32]): "I had a pretty rough childhood filled with probably some of the worst childhood trauma that a child can experience."

Key Discussion Points:

• Dean’s Background: Raised in an orphanage, living in his car during high school, and the significant trauma he endured.
• The Role of Mr. Dean: A compassionate teacher who offered support and hope, serving as a pivotal figure in Dean’s life.
• Film’s Message: Emphasizes themes of resilience, the importance of mentorship, and the enduring impact of kindness.

Glenn Beck’s Reflection: Beck draws parallels between his own struggles and Dean’s story, highlighting the universal need for compassion and understanding. He praises the film for its authentic portrayal of overcoming adversity and the transformative power of empathetic relationships.

[29:54 - 30:03]

The episode concludes with Beck expressing his enthusiasm for Dean's film, urging listeners to watch "Brave the Dark" to fully grasp its emotional depth and inspirational message.

Conclusion

This episode of The Glenn Beck Program offers a blend of political commentary and personal storytelling. Glenn Beck addresses contentious topics such as transgender policies in sports, government spending, and diversity initiatives, engaging in robust debates with callers. The highlight, however, is the heartfelt interview with Nathaniel Dean, providing listeners with a moving narrative of overcoming hardship through the support of a dedicated teacher. The episode exemplifies Beck’s commitment to blending political discourse with human-interest stories, maintaining an engaging and thought-provoking dialogue for his audience.