Is TikTok truly a national security threat, or was it just a target in a personal vendetta by former (& now current) President Donald Trump? Join me, Daijné Jones, on The Napkin In Between Podcast as we unravel the tangled web of politics and personal grievances that fueled the explosive debate over the TikTok ban in the United States. This episode promises a thorough exploration of the contentious journey from Trump's initial claims to the potential sale to Microsoft, all while questioning the real motives behind the headlines. Was it all about safeguarding data, or did it have more to do with Trump’s portrayal on the app?

Travel with us through a timeline marked by high-stakes political maneuvers, from the routing of U.S. TikTok traffic to Oracle to the controversial bipartisan bill linking its fate to international aid. We lay bare the strategic decisions of political leaders, including President Biden's pivotal role, and reflect on TikTok CEO's actions under pressure. Were they strategic defenses or mere surrenders? This episode is a comprehensive guide to understanding the political theatre and business interests that have shaped TikTok's turbulent history in the U.S., offering insights into the broader implications for free speech and user privacy.