The MeidasTouch Podcast
Episode: MeidasTouch Full Podcast - 2/20/25
Release Date: February 21, 2025
Hosts: Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas
Guests: Karen Friedman Agnifolo

1. Introduction and Economic Concerns (00:00 - 05:11)

The episode kicks off with Ben and Brett discussing the declining approval ratings of former President Donald Trump amid rising inflation and a turbulent stock market. Ben attributes the inflation surge to policies enacted during Trump's administration, including an $8 trillion increase in national debt and mismanagement during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Notable Quote:

• Ben Meiselas (00:43): "Donald Trump was the original cause of the inflation that former President Biden fixed because Donald added $8 trillion of debt."

2. Trump's Foreign Policy and Relations with Russia (05:12 - 07:17)

Ben criticizes Trump's attempts to negotiate directly with Russia, sidelining NATO allies and Ukraine. He underscores the dangers of Trump's approach, labeling it as a betrayal of American values and democracy.

Notable Quote:

• Jordy Meiselas (07:17): "America can no longer be viewed in the world as a good guy. We are now allied with autocracies, we are now allied with dictatorships. We are now allied with Russia."

3. Impact of "Doge" and Government Cuts (07:18 - 18:12)

The discussion shifts to the policies under "Doge," led by Elon Musk, focusing on budget cuts affecting critical services like the 911 Health Program. Ben expresses concern over the reduction in support for first responders and essential government functions.

Notable Quote:

• Ben Meiselas (05:00): "The fund provides health care for thousands of first responders and civilians. Only staff reductions could put lives at risk."

4. Promises vs. Reality in Trump's Administration (18:13 - 31:57)

Ben and his brothers dissect Trump's unmet promises, such as ending the war in Ukraine within 24 hours and making housing more affordable. They highlight discrepancies between Trump's announcements and the actual outcomes, emphasizing economic decline and increased national debt.

Notable Quote:

• Ben Meiselas (31:58): "Donald Trump made these promises... that he's a liar, period, full stop."

5. Media Manipulation and Public Perception (31:58 - 37:28)

The hosts discuss how misinformation is propagated through media channels like Fox News and Elon Musk's social platforms, reinforcing Trump's narratives despite evidence to the contrary. They stress the importance of countering these falsehoods with factual information.

Notable Quote:

• Jordy Meiselas (32:22): "They're the ultimate sheep. They are the ultimate NPCs."

6. Government Accountability and Oversight (37:29 - 46:18)

Ben emphasizes the lack of accountability within the current administration, particularly regarding Elon Musk's role in government operations. He calls for transparency and the necessity of holding public officials accountable through congressional oversight.

Notable Quote:

• Ben Meiselas (52:13): "Could you imagine what that testimony of Elon Musk would look like before the DOGE Subcommittee?"

7. Community Mobilization and Protests (46:19 - 53:10)

The brothers highlight the growing movement among their listeners, the "MidasMighty," who are actively participating in protests and advocating for pro-democracy actions. They encourage listeners to engage and contribute to the movement.

Notable Quote:

• Jordy Meiselas (65:20): "We need to be united in pushing back against that."

8. Closing Remarks and Calls to Action (53:11 - End)

In their closing segments, Ben and Jordy reiterate the importance of community involvement and staying informed. They invite listeners to join their Patreon meetings and subscribe to their various podcast offerings, emphasizing the collective effort required to restore democracy and accountability.

Notable Quote:

• Ben Meiselas (74:57): "We stand with you every step of the way, shoulder to shoulder here."

Key Themes and Insights

• Economic Mismanagement: The podcast repeatedly attributes current economic challenges, including inflation and rising national debt, to policies implemented during Trump's administration.

• Foreign Policy Critique: There's a strong condemnation of Trump's approach to foreign relations, especially regarding Russia and Ukraine, portraying it as detrimental to American alliances and global standing.

• Misinformation and Media Influence: The hosts highlight the role of biased media and influential figures like Elon Musk in spreading misinformation, emphasizing the need for factual reporting and community vigilance.

• Government Accountability: A significant focus is placed on the lack of transparency and accountability within the current administration, urging listeners to demand oversight and responsibility from their leaders.

• Community Empowerment: The episode underscores the power of collective action, encouraging listeners to participate in protests, stay informed, and actively counteract disinformation.

Conclusion

In this episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas deliver a passionate critique of Donald Trump's policies and their implications on the U.S. economy, foreign relations, and democratic institutions. They highlight the dangers of misinformation propagated through media channels and stress the importance of community mobilization to uphold democratic values and ensure government accountability. The hosts call upon their audience, the "MidasMighty," to engage actively in pro-democracy efforts and remain steadfast in seeking the truth amidst political turmoil.