Podcast Summary: The MeidasTouch Podcast – July 8, 2025

Episode: MeidasTouch Full Podcast - 7/8/25
Release Date: July 8, 2025
Host: MeidasTouch Network (Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas)
Description: A blend of brotherly banter, political commentary, and unwavering support for democracy, the MeidasTouch Podcast delivers in-depth discussions on current events and pivotal issues affecting America and the world.

1. Texas Flash Flood Tragedy and Administrative Response

The episode opens with a somber discussion about the devastating flash floods in Texas, which resulted in over 80 deaths, many of whom were young girls. Brett Meiselas leads the conversation, expressing deep concern over the government's handling of the disaster.

Brett criticizes the Trump administration's efforts to eliminate FEMA, asserting that such actions have severely debilitated the agency's capacity to respond effectively to natural disasters. He states:

“We basically hit that 90 deals in 90 days timeline. But Donald Trump has basically done zero deals in 90 days. And now he's posting on social media...”
(00:31)

Brett further highlights the critical role FEMA plays in emergency management, emphasizing that FEMA’s dismantling has led to inadequate disaster response mechanisms. He underscores the importance of FEMA’s coordination with state and local authorities, noting the absence of key personnel in the National Weather Service as a factor exacerbating the flood’s impact.

2. The Epstein Files Controversy

A significant portion of the podcast delves into the contentious issue surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein files. The Trump administration’s Department of Justice (DOJ) claims that no such "Epstein list" exists, contradicting previous statements made by officials like Pam Bondi.

Ben Meiselas challenges the DOJ's assertion, referencing Pam Bondi’s earlier declaration that the Epstein client list was in her possession:

“How could Pam Bondi just a few months ago say in no uncertain terms, I have the Epstein client list and it is sitting on my desk right now.”
(03:48)

Jordy Meiselas adds to the skepticism by pointing out the inconsistencies and potential cover-ups:

“The DOJ may be releasing the list of Jeffrey Epstein's clients. Will that really happen?”
(38:38)

The brothers discuss the implications of these conflicting statements, suggesting that the denial of the list’s existence raises red flags about transparency and accountability within the Trump administration. They also touch upon Donald Trump’s documented connections with Epstein, including social events and flight logs that implicate him in Epstein’s network.

3. Trump’s Failed Trade War Initiatives

Brett Meiselas provides a critical analysis of President Donald Trump’s trade policies, specifically the unfulfilled promise of achieving "90 deals in 90 days." Contrary to the bold claims, the administration has failed to secure any substantial trade agreements within the stipulated timeframe.

He mocks the quality of the tariffs being imposed, describing Trump’s letters to international leaders as:

“...look like they were written by a fifth grader... random words capitalized. The strangest letters.”
(49:27)

Brett further explains the economic repercussions of these poorly executed policies, highlighting increased tariffs on countries like Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam, which have strained international relations and negatively impacted American consumers through higher prices. The discussion underscores the administration’s inability to engage in effective trade negotiations, leading to economic instability and loss of global respect.

4. Militarized ICE Presence in MacArthur Park, Los Angeles

The podcast shifts focus to recent actions by the Trump administration involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Brett describes a disturbing scene where militarized ICE agents, dressed in unmarked military fatigues, patrolled MacArthur Park in Los Angeles, a popular community hub:

“...these ICE officers and people who look like they were about to go to war... through Los Angeles MacArthur park... to intimidate and terrorize the communities in L.A.”
(57:47)

This aggressive presence was met with resistance from local authorities, including Mayor Eric Garcetti and Governor Gavin Newsom, who pushed ICE out of the park. The brothers criticize the administration’s approach, likening it to authoritarian tactics rather than lawful immigration enforcement.

Jordy Meiselas reflects on the broader implications of such actions, comparing them to potential scenarios under different administrations:

“Imagine if President Joe Biden was sending in the military into Texas like this and kicking kids out of parks... [It would be met with] protests and outrage.”
(78:48)

5. Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In their concluding remarks, the Meiselas brothers reiterate their commitment to exposing and fact-checking the Trump administration’s narratives. They emphasize the importance of holding those in power accountable for their actions and misinformation.

Ben Meiselas underscores the consequences of unchecked lies:

“The lies have consequences. The way Donald Trump and this regime weaponize their lies is really no different than the way Vladimir Putin weaponizes his lies.”
(68:01)

Jordy encourages listeners to stay vigilant and support the podcast’s mission to uphold democratic values:

“Thank you guys for tuning in every single day, because we're going to hold truth to power here, here, and we're going to show you all of these lies.”
(74:26)

Notable Quotes

• Ben Meiselas (00:01): "Living with schizophrenia isn't easy, especially when you're not getting relief from some of your symptoms."

• Brett Meiselas (00:31): “We have a lot to discuss on this episode of the Midas Touch podcast... a bittersweet fourth of July for a lot of reasons.”

• Ben Meiselas (03:48): “Pam Bondi just a few months ago say in no uncertain terms, I have the Epstein client list and it is sitting on my desk right now.”

• Jordy Meiselas (06:14): “Look, we just have so much to unpack today. And that's why I love the Midas Mighty.”

• Brett Meiselas (12:13): “President Trump has been very clear since the beginning that he believes that FEMA and its response in many, many circumstances has failed the American people...”

• Brett Meiselas (25:51): “There is no such thing as the Epstein files anymore, according to the Trump DOJ.”

• Jordy Meiselas (44:35): “The goal is always to weaponize this against their political enemies. It's not to actually find the truth.”

Conclusion

In this episode, the MeidasTouch brothers provide a thorough critique of the Trump administration’s policies and actions, particularly focusing on the mishandling of natural disasters, questionable trade initiatives, and the enigmatic Epstein files controversy. Through detailed analysis and pointed commentary, they advocate for transparency, accountability, and the preservation of democratic values.

Listeners are encouraged to engage with the content further by supporting the MeidasTouch Network through memberships and staying informed via their YouTube channel and upcoming Patreon platform.