What's up, guys? I have a powerhouse episode for you today with Eli Lake—one of the sharpest minds in foreign policy journalism. Eli's a columnist for the Free Press, the host of the Breaking History podcast, and a straight-up expert on everything from intelligence to Middle East geopolitics. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what's really behind America’s relationship with Israel, Iran's nuclear ambitions, or the complex dance of power in the Middle East—this is the conversation you cannot miss.

Today, we're diving deep into the realities nobody talks about: conspiracy theories that just won’t die, why alliances in that region are shifting so fast, the truth about proxy wars, and what the future could look like if Iran’s regime falls or continues to escalate. Eli breaks down why the intelligence war matters, how successful military operations reshape global power, and what it will actually take for democratic change to happen in places like Iran.

SHOWNOTES

00:00 The "Israel Puppeteering" Myth & Its Origins
01:46 How US and Israeli Intelligence Stack Up
03:36 Technical vs. Human Intelligence—Who Excels and Why
04:01 Israel, Iran, and the Nuclear Umbrella Strategy
05:16 The Proxy War Web: Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iranian Influence
06:31 October 7th, Retaliation & Demolishing Proxy Networks
07:56 Did Iran Really Take the “Next Step” to a Bomb?
09:16 What Actually Counts as “Success” Against Iran?
10:39 Democratic Uprising: Is Regime Change Possible from Within?
12:32 Tech, Starlink, and Empowering the Iranian People
14:20 Regime Humiliation & Authoritarian Vulnerability
16:06 The Tipping Point for Revolution
17:00 Internal Rot in the Iranian Regime

FOLLOW ELI LAKE
Twitter: @EliLake
Podcast: Breaking History
The Free Press Columns: thefp.com/author/eli-lake

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In today’s episode, Tom pulls back the curtain on the hard truths that shape our world, diving into the bloody history and cold calculations that drive geopolitics. Using the concept of “realpolitik” as his lens, Tom explores why nations act not according to ideals, but ruthless self-interest, and how this approach accurately predicts the cycles of conflict, power struggles, and shifting borders that have marked human history.

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Tai Lopez is living proof that the rich and famous entrepreneurial lifestyle is possible for the Millennial generation. Over the course of his career, he’s founded, invested in, advised, or mentored more than 20 multi-million dollar companies, and his book club and podcast reaches 1.4 million people across 40 countries. But don’t be blinded by the glitz and glam of his current lifestyle. In the beginning, Tai was a college dropout living on his mother’s couch. With only $47 in his bank account, and an insatiable desire to learn, he sought out mentorship to take him to the next level. Continually optimizing his life for adventure, he sheared sheep in New Zealand, lived with the Amish, worked in a leper colony in India, and helped pioneer grass-fed sustainable agriculture. Meet the new media mogul, social media pioneer and serial entrepreneur in this insightful episode of Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu.

ORIGINAL AIR DATE: 11-21-17

SHOW NOTES

Tai walks through why he chose to live with the Amish and how he optimizes his life for adventure. [3:23]

Tai explains the notion of the four pillars of happiness and his definition of the good life. [7:33]

Tai talks about postponing pleasure for the future.[10:11]

Tom and Tai go deep into the four layers of conscientiousness. [12:39]

Tai offers practical steps on how to find your true north. [18:04]

Tai gives advice on dealing with haters and how you can learn from anybody. [22:23]

Tom and Tai discuss how pain builds discipline and how trauma helps you learn. [29:51]

Tai reveals the symptoms of narcissism.[35:00]

Tom and Tai discuss the importance of learning. [40:02]

Tai emphasizes the power of in-person networking and attending conferences. [45:33]

Tai spells out how dopamine drives us and the problem of being too ambitious.[48:27]

Tai defines the impact that he wants to have on the world. [52:52]

BOOKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Amish Society -http://amzn.to/2zUTDIo [4:01

The Happiness Hypothesis -http://amzn.to/2zWP8Nb[9:18]

The Selfish Gene -http://amzn.to/2B8m3fO[28:13]

Total Recall -http://amzn.to/2zUauek[43:24]

Tai’s booklist -http://bit.ly/2i9pquX

What's up, everybody? It's Tom Bilyeu here:

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In this special live episode, Tom dives headfirst into the chaos of current world events, unpacking everything from the explosive end of the 12-day war between Israel and Iran to the dramatic political shifts in New York. Alongside lively audience questions and his co-host Drew, Tom tackles some of the most hotly debated issues of our time: socialism versus capitalism, the role of government in innovation, and the challenge of creating a thriving middle class.

Get ready for candid, no-nonsense takes on economic policy, wage stagnation, and the future of work in an age of AI and automation. Tom doesn’t shy away from tough questions, whether he’s breaking down why high taxes might drive innovators away or explaining how debt and inflation impact everyday wages. Plus, he shares his philosophies on work ethic, responsibility, and building a life of purpose. If you’re looking for a dose of thought-provoking discussion, practical advice, and even a few rapid-fire tips on launching your own video game with the help of AI, you won’t want to miss this episode!

SHOWNOTES

00:00 Crazy Times Discussing Politics

03:20 Innovation Gap in Norway

08:11 "Personal Responsibility Over Government Reliance"

12:21 "Abolish the Fed for Middle Class"

15:37 Entrepreneurial Sacrifices and Misunderstood Profits

20:03 Debate on Wages and Inflation

21:06 Maximizing Profits vs. Fair Wages

24:35 Incentives, AI, and Market Dynamics

28:17 "Seeking Extraordinary, Mars-bound Careers"

32:52 Key Game Development Insights

33:48 Objective Feedback from Unbiased Sources

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What’s up, guys? Today I’m bringing you one of the most timely and thought-provoking episodes we’ve ever done. There’s no guest joining me in the traditional sense, but we are diving deep, breaking down the wild week on the global stage: the end of the 12-day war between Israel and Iran, Trump shaking up world politics and being nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, all the way to the rise of socialism in New York, the Supreme Court rewriting deportation rules, and the explosion of AI tech that can literally create memories with your loved ones.

You’re going to hear my real-time analysis and deep dive into realpolitik – what actually drives world order, how power really plays out behind the headlines, and why ideology is rarely the main force moving the pieces. Producer Drew is right here with me, challenging the takes, asking the questions you’re already thinking, and making sure we don’t shy away from the tough conversations.

SHOWNOTES

00:00 Preventing Nuclear Threats from Adversaries

07:58 Middle East Tactical Diplomacy

13:18 Casual Presidency Shift

18:15 Political Loyalty and Experimental Strategy

25:46 Corn Subsidies and Market Distortion

30:55 "Challenges of Entrepreneurship"

32:22 Price Controls Inefficiency Impact

40:29 Rent Freeze Leads to Decline

46:53 "Misconceptions About Government Spending"

50:55 Deportation Tactics Under Scrutiny

56:11 "Mirrored Therapy for Phantom Pain"

01:01:21 Marriage Dynamics and Respect

01:05:36 Rethinking Relationship Dynamics

01:11:54 Game Development Milestone Reflections

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tackles some of the most urgent and controversial issues shaping our world today—from the cutting edge of medical technology and the AI revolution to gender policy, cultural change, and the debate over reparations. Kicking off with a wild breakthrough in robotic heart transplants, the conversation quickly expands into the rapid-fire disruption of artificial intelligence, how deepfakes and digital mimicry are challenging reality, and why no one should expect the pace of change to slow down. The episode dives headlong into the Supreme Court’s ruling on gender-affirming care, questions about the true legacy of feminism, and whether modern societies are undervaluing parenthood and family. With candid commentary on Chicago’s reparations plan, the immigrant mindset, and the pitfalls of race-based policy, this episode asks the hard questions, highlights what’s at stake, and offers a blueprint for thriving amid chaos and change. If you want to stay ahead of the curve—and challenge your own assumptions—don’t miss this one.

SHOWNOTES

00:00 Super Chat: Israel, Iran, and Nuclear Proliferation
03:15 Robotic Heart Transplant Breakthrough in Texas
07:58 The Future of Robotic Surgery & Tesla Optimus
10:41 The Coming AI Tsunami—How Fast Is Too Fast?
15:22 AI Mimicry: Deepfakes and AAVE
18:47 Can We Train Out Dangerous AI Behaviors?
21:36 Supreme Court Upholds Ban on Gender-Affirming Care for Kids
26:10 Social Contagion & The Malleability of Sexuality
29:55 How Pride Flags & Social Signals Influence Identity
32:12 Is Feminism Helping or Hurting Society?
35:39 The Decline of Traditional Roles & Birth Rates
38:50 Should We Financially Incentivize Parenthood?
42:17 Chicago’s Reparations Plan: Debate & Dissent
45:28 Race-Blind vs. Race-Based Policy: What Works?
48:00 Immigrant Mindset: From Gangs to Millionaire
51:05 The Power of Individual Effort & Skill Development
54:15 Trump’s Juneteenth Comments: Political Fallout
56:30 Final Thoughts & Action Items

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On this episode of Impact Theory, Tom Bilyeu sits down with real estate developer and civic leader Rick Caruso for a powerful conversation about leadership, crisis management, and the future of Los Angeles. As political divisiveness and public safety concerns grip the city, Rick brings his firsthand experience tackling LA’s toughest challenges—from the riots and police reform to wildfire recovery and urban renewal.

Rick shares candid insights on what it takes to drive culture change, hold government accountable, and inspire real action in both the public and private sectors. With stories from rebuilding after devastating fires to navigating City Hall bureaucracy, you’ll hear why Rick believes leadership, vision, and a commitment to competence are the keys to restoring pride and safety in our communities. Whether you’re passionate about civic change or looking for inspiration on effective leadership, this episode delivers a masterclass in getting things done—even when the odds are stacked against you.

SHOWNOTES

00:00 Los Angeles Culture Change Needed

05:24 Pathway to Citizenship Advocacy

08:01 Trump's Methods Critiqued

10:42 "Critique of Radical City Policies"

14:34 Effective Leadership: Inspire and Collaborate

19:33 "Leadership Critique of LA Mayors"

21:23 "Prioritizing Competence Over Ideology"

26:04 Fire Response Strategy Development

27:53 Preparedness Prevents Disaster in LA

31:26 Steadfast's Progress Amid Challenges

34:05 Elon Musk Podcast Speculation

37:05 Leadership Paralysis and Decision-Making

41:16 LA County Crime Policy Dynamics

44:17 "Action Over Words: Progress Focus"

48:11 "National Economic Divide"

49:45 "Subscribe and Be Legendary"

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In this intensely eye-opening episode of "Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu," Tom launches a deep dive into the alarming patterns of national economic failure, using the infamous collapse of Argentina in 2001 as his starting point. With the precision of an investigative storyteller, Tom brings you face-to-face with the stark reality behind global financial crises—not as distant tragedies but as urgent, mathematical inevitabilities now encroaching on the United States. Drawing on the research and insights of Ray Dalio, the legendary hedge fund manager, Tom unpacks "The Big Debt Cycle," explaining in clear terms the six phases every collapsing nation inevitably traverses.

For those searching for solutions, Tom presents Ray Dalio’s concept of "beautiful deleveraging" as a rare, hopeful path. He walks through the gritty details of what it takes to bring a runaway debt-strangled nation back from the brink—explaining the painful, necessary balance between austerity, debt restructuring, redistribution, and well-calibrated money creation. Using historical case studies, modern economic policy debates, and concrete steps, Tom explores how America can navigate this perilous moment—and why collective literacy and moral discipline are the keys to building a sustainable future. If you want to be part of the vital 2% who choose awareness, action, and resilience, this episode is your manual.

SHOWNOTES

08:58 Debt-Fueled Economic Bubbles

11:04 Debt, Deficits, and Government Games

20:26 Modern Monetary Theory basics

30:53 Global Unrest and Authoritarian Trends

40:31 "Impending U.S. Collapse and Solutions"

55:13 Ray Dalio's Deleveraging Strategy

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Fan Favorite: This episode originally aired on September 28, 2021. The truth about life, success, and failure is everything depends on you. The problem is that you, and nearly every other person around, defaults to being at the mercy of the people, the environments, and unfortunate situations that mark the course of life.

Mel Robbins is the personification of motivation on steroids packed with a high potency of raw truth. You could say she’s joining Tom to discuss her newest book, The High 5 Habit, but it’s more fitting to say she’s back to give you the kick in the ass you’ve been waiting for. Mel is not only talking about why high fiving yourself is powerful, she’s reminding you that you have a responsibility to heal yourself and do the work. While you’re chasing your dreams, understand that what the world sees as failure may just be a massive success in the timeline of your life, as has been the case for Mel Robbins.

Order Mel’s new book, The High 5 Habit: https://www.amazon.com/High-Habit-Take-Control-Simple-ebook/dp/B096JQSWQ6

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 Introduction Mel Robbins

1:42 | A-Ha Moments In Life

7:20 | Why High 5 Yourself

19:54 | Feel Worth Celebrating

25:15 | R.A.S. Looking for Hearts

34:59 | Powerful of Jealousy

37:44 | Life Is Your Responsibility

47:38 | Interrupting Destructive Worry

51:37 | Mel’s Vermont Painting

Follow Mel Robbins:

Website: https://melrobbins.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/melrobbins

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melrobbins/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melrobbins/

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Welcome back to Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu! In this episode, Tom and Producer Drew dive into a dynamic conversation covering everything from unexpected dinner stories with hip-hop legends and comic creators to deep reflections on global politics, commerce, and the future of technology.

Tom and Drew break down Trump’s recent deals, cultural realism in foreign policy, the impact of commerce as a global connector, and the blurred lines between healthy capitalism and exploitative systems.

SHOWNOTES

00:00 Middle East's Self-Led Transformation

07:39 Cultural Collisions and Misguided Interventions

31:44 Eugenics: Dark Historical Perception

44:36 "Trump's Strategic Move on Drug Pricing"

01:01:45 "Reforming Loan Structures & School Funding"

01:23:07 "Critique of Money Printing Policies"

01:35:17 "Understanding Manipulation in Economics"

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