MeidasTouch Podcast Summary: "MeidasTouch RESPONDS to BREAKING NEWS on Day 1 - 1/20/25"

Release Date: January 21, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas delve into the aftermath of President Donald Trump's inauguration, addressing various political developments, media criticisms, and the implications of emerging technologies like meme coins. The discussion is fervent, blending sharp political critique with the brothers' signature brotherly banter.

1. Critique of Trump's Inauguration

Brett opens the conversation by condemning the inaugural event as a “complete Inauguration fail,” highlighting the stark contrast between Trump's promises and the actual turnout.

Brett [00:51]: "Donald Trump tried to pretend that it was too cold to do the inauguration outside the Capitol. The reality was that he was afraid of those teeny tiny crowd sizes."

The hosts argue that Trump's inauguration lacked the grandeur and support one would expect, portraying it instead as a low-energy disaster.

2. Media Malpractice in Covering Trump Events

Ben criticizes mainstream media outlets for their superficial coverage of Trump-related events, focusing instead on crowd reactions rather than substantive policy discussions.

Ben [08:56]: "What sort of MAGA world is this? Reporting on their boos as though you're reporting on a car chase."

He emphasizes the importance of independent media in holding power accountable, contrasting it with what he perceives as the corporate media's failure to provide meaningful coverage.

3. The Meme Coin Phenomenon

The discussion shifts to the controversial release of meme coins by Trump and his associates, which the hosts label as potential scams undermining the cryptocurrency industry's legitimacy.

Brett [51:09]: "It's pretty clearly a scam. These meme coins delegitimize the entire cryptocurrency industry."

Ben elaborates on the mechanics of these meme coins, pointing out the disproportionate allocation favoring insiders, leading to market manipulation concerns.

Ben [51:09]: "80 to 90% is held by insiders, meaning they're not the ones who actually buy this thing. It's a rug pull."

The hosts express concern over the lack of regulation and the broader implications for market trust and young investors' perceptions of financial success.

4. Corporate Media's Capitulation to Trump

Brett and Ben discuss how major corporate media networks like NBC have allegedly capitulated to Trump’s influence, prioritizing corporate agendas over unbiased reporting.

Brett [30:59]: "NBC built this mythical Persona of Donald Trump, which is not reflective of reality."

Ben adds that ownership structures, such as Comcast’s ownership of NBC, compel these networks to appease Trump for regulatory benefits, thereby diminishing their journalistic integrity.

Ben [30:59]: "Comcast has its corporate agenda where it feels it needs to suck up to Donald Trump."

5. Oligarch Influence in the Government

The hosts express alarm over perceived oligarchic control within the White House, particularly highlighting Elon Musk’s unexpected role.

Ben [40:25]: "Elon has an office right there, I mean literally in the executive building that's attached basically to the White House. They are actually in the White House, influencing and serving as a shadow presidency."

This segment underscores concerns about the blending of corporate power with governmental authority, potentially sidelining democratic processes.

6. Trump's Pardons and Commutations

Ben and Brett critique Trump's initial actions regarding pardons and commutations, focusing on high-profile figures associated with extremist groups.

Ben [66:17]: "Enrique Tarrio was in the White House, hanging out in the White House in the residency area back in December of 2020."

They argue that these actions signal a presidency leaning towards retribution rather than reconciliation, undermining the rule of law and democratic norms.

7. Impact on Democracy and Future Outlook

Jordy reflects on Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, advocating for mass strategic nonviolent protests as a means to combat the perceived authoritarian drift.

Ben [66:17]: "Mass strategic, nonviolent protests... we remain united and make it clear that our voices be heard."

The conversation emphasizes the necessity for continued vigilance and proactive engagement to support democracy amidst rising authoritarian tendencies.

8. Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode concludes with the brothers reiterating their commitment to pro-democracy values, encouraging listeners to stay informed and active in the political landscape.

Jordy [73:20]: "We are not dealing with lower prices, peace in Ukraine isn't happening. Focus, focus, focus."

They also promote their platforms, urging listeners to subscribe and support their independent media efforts to counterbalance mainstream media narratives.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Brett [00:51]: "Donald Trump tried to pretend that it was too cold to do the inauguration outside the Capitol. The reality was that he was afraid of those teeny tiny crowd sizes."

• Ben [08:56]: "What sort of MAGA world is this? Reporting on their boos as though you're reporting on a car chase."

• Brett [30:59]: "NBC built this mythical Persona of Donald Trump, which is not reflective of reality."

• Ben [40:25]: "Elon has an office right there, I mean literally in the executive building that's attached basically to the White House. They are actually in the White House, influencing and serving as a shadow presidency."

• Ben [66:17]: "Enrique Tarrio was in the White House, hanging out in the White House in the residency area back in December of 2020."

• Jordy [73:20]: "We are not dealing with lower prices, peace in Ukraine isn't happening. Focus, focus, focus."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast offers a critical examination of the early days of Trump's presidency, highlighting concerns over media integrity, corporate influence, and the ethical implications of emerging financial instruments like meme coins. The Meiselas brothers emphasize the importance of independent media and proactive civic engagement in preserving democratic values amidst political turbulence.