Podcast Summary: The Glenn Beck Program
Episode: Best of the Program | Guests: Jonathan Pageau & Gordon Chang | January 16, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Glenn Beck Program, hosted by the Blaze Podcast Network, Glenn Beck engages in insightful discussions with two distinguished guests: Jonathan Pageau, an icon carver and cultural commentator, and Gordon Chang, author of China Is Going to War. The episode delves into themes ranging from the symbolic significance of UFO phenomena to the geopolitical strategies surrounding China's potential for conflict, particularly concerning the Panama Canal. Throughout the conversation, Beck and his guests provide deep analyses, interspersed with humor and notable quotes that enrich the discourse.

Conversation with Jonathan Pageau: The Symbolic Realm of UFOs and Spirituality

Exploring the Unknown (00:00 - 03:14)
Glenn Beck introduces Jonathan Pageau, highlighting his expertise in icon carving and symbolic interpretation. Beck expresses intrigue over discussions about interdimensional beings, setting the stage for a profound exploration of the symbolic meanings behind unidentified phenomena.

Symbolic Structures and Alien Influences (03:14 - 10:35)
Pageau emphasizes the importance of understanding UFOs and UAPs (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) not merely as physical entities but as symbols that influence our perception and spirituality. He states:

“We are dealing with something like a monster, that's like a hybrid monster that you don't know what it means.”
(04:37)

He draws parallels between ancient mythological creatures and modern UFO sightings, suggesting that these phenomena act as catalysts for reevaluating our place in the cosmos.

The Intersection of Science and Spirituality (10:35 - 12:05)
Beck raises concerns about society's shift from spiritual to scientific interpretations of the universe, citing contemporary debates on gender identity as an example of "perverse spirituality." Pageau responds by cautioning against conflating scientific exploration with spiritual understanding, warning of the dangers in confusing the two realms.

AI and Modern Golems (12:05 - 14:42)
The conversation transitions to artificial intelligence, where Pageau likens AI to the mythical golem—an artificial being that can turn against its creators. He warns:

“If we encounter aliens like extraterrestrial beings, there will be a great temptation to confuse those with the idea of angels or of gods.”
(10:48)

Pageau underscores the necessity of maintaining a clear distinction between technological advancements and spiritual entities to preserve societal meaning structures.

Discussion with Gordon Chang: China's Geopolitical Maneuvers and the Panama Canal

China’s Economic Struggles and Militaristic Aspirations (16:00 - 18:40)
Glenn Beck introduces Gordon Chang, focusing on his analysis of China's deteriorating economy and the potential for Xi Jinping to instigate conflict as a means to consolidate power. Chang elaborates:

“Xi knows that the only way out for him is a misadventure abroad. And I think he wants it for one primary reason, and that is if he has a war, he prevents other Communist Party leaders from challenging him and deposing him.”
(17:06)

He outlines how internal economic pressures may drive China to provoke international conflicts to divert attention and maintain regime stability.

Potential Flashpoints and the Panama Canal (18:40 - 25:19)
Chang discusses possible scenarios where China might target the Panama Canal to disrupt U.S. naval movements between the Atlantic and Pacific fleets. He explains:

“There are any number of ways for China to do that. So, for instance, they could take a ship, they could ram one of the locks, they could scuttle it in the Culebra Cut.”
(19:47)

Chang warns of China's extensive knowledge and penetration of Panamanian infrastructure, making them a formidable adversary capable of orchestrating significant disruptions.

Chinese Influence in the Panama Canal Zone (20:48 - 25:19)
The conversation delves into the extent of Chinese involvement in the Panama Canal, highlighting state-owned enterprises' dual-use capabilities for military purposes. Chang states:

“They have Chinese state enterprises there. When Laura Hutchinson Richardson, who was head of U.S. southern Command, in the middle of 2022, she flew over the canal and she pointed out all of the Chinese civilian, quote, unquote operations... they would be turned into military facilities at a time of war.”
(21:09)

He underscores the strategic vulnerability posed by Chinese-controlled ports and facilities, advocating for proactive measures to expropriate these assets and bolster American presence in critical regions.

Strategic Recommendations (22:03 - 25:19)
Chang outlines potential strategies to mitigate Chinese threats, including:

• Expropriation of Chinese Assets: Encouraging Panama to void existing contracts and expel Chinese businesses from the Canal Zone.
• Strengthening American Diplomatic and Business Presence: Promoting American enterprises to reclaim strategic ports and infrastructures globally.
• Utilizing the Neutrality Treaty: Reminding that the U.S. retains the right to militarily protect the Panama Canal, serving as a contingency against Chinese aggression.

“We've got to make sure that American businesses are interested, alive to the possibilities of actually doing business and making profits in places like Central America, South America, Africa.”
(24:23)

Parody Segment: President Biden’s Farewell Speech (29:29 - 35:21)

In a humorous interlude, Glenn Beck presents a satirical rendition of President Joe Biden's farewell address, reimagined with exaggerated and absurd statements. This segment serves as a critique of Biden's perceived ineffectiveness and lack of impact, with Gordon Chang and Stu Burguiere joining in the mockery. Notable lines include:

“We have billionaires and corporations running the shows right now, and it's dangerous.”
(29:33)

“Artificial intelligence. That's what they call it. I don't trust it. One day you're talking to your phone, the next thing you know, it's running your life.”
(32:28)

The parody underscores the hosts' frustration with the current administration's policies and their broader implications on American society.

Political Commentary and Future Outlook (35:21 - 39:44)

The discussion returns to serious political analysis, focusing on upcoming legislative strategies and the importance of executive orders. Beck and his guests debate the efficacy of passing measures through reconciliation bills versus executive actions, emphasizing the need for sustainable and legally sound policies to address national deficits and other pressing issues.

“I think there's more to cut than everybody thinks. Yeah. You know what I mean?”
(38:36)

They advocate for Congress to take decisive action in budgetary matters, highlighting areas like the Department of Education as potential targets for deficit reduction.

Conclusion

This episode of The Glenn Beck Program offers a multifaceted exploration of contemporary issues through the lenses of symbolism, geopolitics, and political strategy. Jonathan Pageau provides a thought-provoking analysis of how modern phenomena like UFOs intersect with ancient symbolic structures, while Gordon Chang offers a sobering assessment of China's aggressive tactics and their implications for global stability. Interspersed with humor and critical commentary, Beck and his guests deliver an engaging and informative discussion that challenges listeners to consider the deeper meanings behind current events and the strategic moves shaping the world's future.

Notable Quotes:

• Jonathan Pageau:
  “We are dealing with something like a monster, that's like a hybrid monster that you don't know what it means.”
  (04:37)

• Gordon Chang:
  “Xi knows that the only way out for him is a misadventure abroad. And I think he wants it for one primary reason, and that is if he has a war, he prevents other Communist Party leaders from challenging him and deposing him.”
  (17:06)

• Gordon Chang:
  “They have Chinese state enterprises there... they would be turned into military facilities at a time of war.”
  (21:09)

• Gordon Chang:
  “Artificial intelligence. That's what they call it. I don't trust it. One day you're talking to your phone, the next thing you know, it's running your life.”
  (32:28)

For those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between symbolism, spirituality, and global politics, this episode serves as an enlightening and thought-provoking listen.