In this very unique episode of Cut to the Chase: Podcast, host Gregg Goldfarb sits down with Dr. Brian Becker—economist, author, and son of Benton Becker, the man who helped President Gerald Ford navigate one of the most defining moments in American political history: the pardon of Richard Nixon.

Brian's new book, Of Pardons and Presidents, explores his father's extraordinary behind-the-scenes role in the Watergate aftermath and the personal toll that came with it. Together, Gregg and Brian unpack the legal strategy, political risk, and human story behind one of the most controversial decisions ever made by a U.S. president.

From rare family anecdotes to lessons on integrity, leadership, and forgiveness, this episode bridges history and humanity in a way only firsthand stories can.

What to expect in this episode:

• The untold story behind President Ford's decision to pardon Richard Nixon
• Benton Becker's key legal role in negotiating the pardon and shaping history
• What it was like for the Becker family to live through Watergate's public backlash
• The constitutional and legal basis of presidential pardons (including Burdick v. U.S.)
• How Brian Becker turned his family's story into Of Pardons and Presidents
• Reflections on legacy, forgiveness, and the importance of preserving history
• Advice for aspiring writers and storytellers chronicling family or political history

Stay tuned for more updates, and don't miss our next deep dive on Cut to the Chase: Podcast with Gregg Goldfarb!

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Resources:

• Buy "Of Pardons and Presidents" by Brian Becker: http://bit.ly/3W1pOOO
• Connect with Brian C. Becker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-becker-083a613

This episode was produced and brought to you by Reignite Media.