Summary of "Trump Panics on Thursday AM as He Collapses It All" – The MeidasTouch Podcast

Podcast Information:

• Title: The MeidasTouch Podcast
• Host/Author: MeidasTouch Network (Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas)
• Episode Title: Trump Panics on Thursday AM as He Collapses It All
• Release Date: March 13, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Trump Panics on Thursday AM as He Collapses It All," the Meiselas brothers—Ben, Brett, and Jordy—delve into the latest political turmoil surrounding former President Donald Trump. The discussion covers Trump's recent economic maneuvers, market reactions, consumer behavior amidst recession fears, and contentious foreign policy actions. The brothers blend insightful analysis with their characteristic humor and brotherly banter, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the current political and economic landscape.

Trump's Economic Policies and Market Reactions

Tariff Threats and Market Uncertainty

The episode kicks off with a discussion about Trump's aggressive stance on international trade, particularly his threats to impose a 200% tariff on European wines and champagnes in retaliation for the EU's 50% tariff on U.S. whiskey. The hosts highlight the market's negative reaction to these threats, noting that such unpredictable policies further destabilize an already volatile market environment.

• Host: "Donald Trump took to his social media platform and threatened that if EU does not remove the tariff on whiskey... the US is going to put a 200% tariff on all wines and champagne. [02:38]"

Comments from Scott Besant and Host's Rebuttal

Scott Besant, Trump’s Treasury Secretary, attempts to downplay the impact of these tariffs. When asked about the market's significant downturn, Besant responds dismissively.

• Scott Besant: "Let's play it and one or two items with one trading block. I'm not sure why that's a big deal for the market. [04:20]"

The hosts, however, express skepticism and frustration with Besant's remarks, suggesting a disconnect between the administration's statements and the reality of the economic situation.

• Host: "Very reassuring. I'm being sarcastic of course. [04:30]"

Consumer Spending and Recession Fears

The conversation shifts to broader economic concerns, particularly the decline in consumer spending across various sectors. The Wall Street Journal reports indicate fears of a Great Recession or even a "Trump depression," with major retailers like Walmart and McDonald's noting reduced consumer spending and increased financial anxiety among customers.

• Host: "The Wall Street Journal just did a piece tallying some of the recent warnings about consumers not spending money anymore as America heads into a Great Recession and potentially even a Trump depression. [05:00]"

Additionally, the podcast touches on rising corporate bond spreads and increasing calls for a boycott of American products in countries like Canada and several EU nations, exacerbating economic tensions.

• Host: "Boycott USA has spiked on Google in the past seven days with four EU countries and Canada topping the search list. [08:00]"

Critique of Scott Besant's Defense of Economic Policies

Scott Besant continues to defend the administration's economic policies, arguing that they are designed for long-term gains despite short-term pain. The host counters this by highlighting discrepancies between the administration's claims and actual economic performance under President Biden.

• Scott Besant: "We have to remember... we've been ripping us off for decades. [09:42]"

• Host: "When you show the SEC filings, you see a history of bankruptcies and failed businesses. [16:00]"

Foreign Policy Implications

US Relations with the European Union and Canada

The podcast explores Trump's adversarial relationship with the EU and Canada, emphasizing the negative impact of tariffs on international trade and diplomatic relations.

• Host: "Donald Trump posts again this morning. Canada needs America. America doesn't need Canada. [10:21]"

Stance on Russia and Ukraine

Trump's foreign policy stance is scrutinized, particularly his approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Despite claims from Trump and some allies that Putin seeks peace, the podcast underscores Russia's disinterest in a ceasefire and supports Ukraine's sovereignty.

• Host: "Russia says it does not want a temporary cease fire in Ukraine. [12:21]"

• Senator John Corden: "Putin doesn't want peace, he wants conquest. [12:21]"

Panama Canal Military Plans

A controversial topic discussed is the Trump White House's directive for the US Military to develop options for reclaiming the Panama Canal, including the unlikely scenario of seizing it by force.

• Host: "Trump White House has asked the US Military to develop options for the Panama Canal... reclaiming the Panama Canal through military force. [12:21]"

This revelation raises concerns about escalating tensions and militaristic approaches to international infrastructure disputes.

Critique of Trump’s Business Acumen

The host provides a scathing critique of Trump's business practices, highlighting a history of bankruptcies and failed ventures. By referencing Trump's SEC filings and past business ventures, the podcast underscores a pattern of financial mismanagement.

• Host: "Here are the businesses that Trump failed at: Trump Steaks, Trump Vodka, Trump Mortgage... [16:00]"

• Host: "He's been the worst business person in life. There's a reason this idiot has bankrupted everything he touched. [16:00]"

This segment aims to dismantle Trump's image as a successful businessman, contrasting it with his political rhetoric.

Conclusion

Throughout the episode, the MeidasTouch brothers present a critical view of Donald Trump's recent actions and their implications for the U.S. economy and foreign policy. By juxtaposing Trump's proclamations with tangible economic data and policy outcomes, the hosts paint a picture of a leadership style that prioritizes aggressive posturing over pragmatic solutions. The episode concludes with a strong admonition against following Trump's policies, emphasizing the potential for long-term economic and diplomatic repercussions.

• Host: "Do not let these MAGA sociopath abusers gaslight you. We know what we're experiencing. [12:21]"

• Host: "He's not smart, he's dumb, he's psychotic. [16:00]"

The podcast effectively combines detailed analysis with passionate commentary, making it a valuable resource for listeners seeking to understand the complexities of current political and economic challenges.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Host: "Donald Trump doesn't realize that you don't make champagne in the United States. [02:38]"

• Scott Besant: "We're focused on the real economy, not what you're seeing. [04:30]"

• Senator John Corden: "Putin doesn't want peace, he wants conquest. [12:21]"

• Host: "He's been the worst business person in life. [16:00]"

Final Thoughts

"Trump Panics on Thursday AM as He Collapses It All" offers a critical examination of Donald Trump's impact on the American economy and international relations. The MeidasTouch brothers leverage their unique perspectives and extensive knowledge to dissect complex issues, providing listeners with a thorough understanding of the challenges facing the United States under Trump's influence. The episode serves as a compelling narrative on the intersection of politics, economics, and personal accountability in leadership.