Best Conspiracy Confidential Podcasts (2024)

1
Deep State Conspiracy: Who Really Tried to Kill Trump 1:46:08

20d ago1:46:08

1:46:08

In this episode of "Is This Real?", we delve into the controversial and complex theories surrounding the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. While official reports suggest a lone gunman, conspiracy theorists propose that the "deep state," an alleged covert network within the government, orchestrated the attack to undermine Trump…

1
Trump and conspiracies: Does the truth even matter now? 46:10

26d ago46:10

46:10

Following the shocking attempted assassination of former president Donald Trump, social media platforms were flooded not only with truthful accounts of what happened at the rally, but also with lies, conspiracies and “fake news” concerning the shooting. Alan and Lionel are joined by Jay Rosen, associate professor of journalism at New York Universit…

1
Biden: Is the game up for the President? 48:35

1M ago48:35

48:35

Can Biden stay in presidential race or will concern about the state of his health force him out of the running? There are plenty of reporters who say his time is up, but how did the president get to this stage in the campaign without anyone running a health-check on him? Jill Abramson, the first female executive editor of the New York Times, joins …

1
Election 2024: It’s the Sun wot lost it! 47:12

1M ago47:12

47:12

As Britain goes to the polls, what role has the media played in shaping the way that nation votes? Traditionally, the tabloid media, mainly Murdoch’s Sun, had a significant role in influencing the public, simlpy due to the huge swathes of the population that read the paper. But what about this year? Where have the tabloids and the broadsheets put t…

1
Julian Assange: A landmark moment in press freedom? 54:43

2M ago54:43

54:43

After 12 years without freedom—first after seeking refuge in the Ecuadorian embassy in London and then as a prisoner in high-security Belmarsh—Julian Assange, the founder of Wikileaks, is free and is back on home soil in Australia. Assange’s crime was to publish classified information leaked from the US Army. He was working alongside Chelsea Mannin…

1
Farage’s Reform: the media’s wife—or its mistress? 49:46

2M ago49:46

49:46

Is the UK general election all over even before the first vote is cast? Polls suggest that Labour has an unassailable lead, and so with two weeks of campaigning to go, is there any chance that media coverage could still influence the electorate? Lionel Barber and Alan Rusbridger are joined by two experienced political commentators to discuss how th…

1
The Washington Post: the chaos continues 44:28

2M ago44:28

44:28

This week Alan and Lionel follow the latest twists and turns at the Washington Post. The noisy departure of Sally Buzbee, the paper’s former executive editor, continues to reverberate around the media world, following Buzbee’s bust-up with Will Lewis, the Post’s publisher and chief executive, over an article that she approved about a phone hacking …

1
The British are coming! How editors from the UK are conquering the American media 50:13

2M ago50:13

50:13

Media circles across the pond are abuzz with the news that Robert Winnett is heading to the USA to take up the job as editor at The Washington Post, but not until after the US election. He’s the latest appointment by publisher Will Lewis following the sudden departure of Sally Buzbee. Winnett joins a handful of British journalists who have moved to…

1
ITR Confidetial: The GREAT "Central" Jersey Debate!!! 30:31

3M ago30:31

30:31

Is Central Jersey real, or is it just a myth perpetuated by locals? In this episode of "Is This Real Confidential," we dive into the heated debate surrounding the existence of Central Jersey. We'll explore historical perspectives, geographical arguments, and the cultural significance that fuels this contentious issue. Additionally, we’ll discuss th…

1
Kara Swisher: How big tech squashed the media 45:32

3M ago45:32

45:32

Kara Swisher—maverick, rock star and tech guru—has interviewed some of the highest profile and biggest personalities on the planet, from Mark Zuckerberg to Barack Obama, Rupert Murdoch and Kim Kardashian. Joining Alan and Lionel on the podcast this week, Kara unpicks the relationship between big tech and the media. Big tech, she says, have no inter…

1
ITR Confidential "Sacred Sightings Vatican Guidelines and the Medjugorje Apparition Explained" 35:10

3M ago35:10

35:10

In this episode of ITR Confodential, we delve into the Vatican's recently updated policies on supernatural apparitions and their implications for believers worldwide. We explore the specifics of these guidelines and how they shape the Church's stance on mystical phenomena. Join us as we take a closer look at the Medjugorje Virgin Mary apparitions, …

1
The Tory TV Channel 48:54

3M ago48:54

48:54

GB News has repeatedly breached broadcasting regulations, been accused of political bias and featured anti-vax stories—but it got away with such misdemeanors until Prime Minister Rishi Sunak appeared on a show called “The People’s Forum”, in which he was able to outline key Conservative messages, largely unchallenged. Ahead of the general election …

1
‘Reporting from a horror movie’: Motaz Azaiza and Youmna El Sayed 47:23

3M ago47:23

47:23

No foreign journalists are allowed into Gaza, so the rest of the world relies on those living in area to relay what is happening on the ground—dedicated and determined reporters who have made sure that no-one can look away. For months, photojournalist Motaz Azaiza and Al Jazeera reporter Youmna El Sayed were among those reporting from Gaza. Motaz h…

1
ITR Confidential: "Banned and Burned: Historical and Modern Perspectives on Book Censorship" 21:31

3M ago21:31

21:31

In this episode of, we delve into the powerful and often controversial world of book censorship, examining its deep roots in history and its persistent presence in modern society. "Banned and Burned" takes listeners on a journey through time, exploring pivotal moments when books were targeted for their content, and discussing the reasons behind the…

1
Phone hacking: What did Murdoch know? 43:57

3M ago43:57

43:57

Investigative journalist Nick Davies returns with yet more remarkable insights and analysis about the phone-hacking scandal that engulfed Murdoch’s papers. Having trawled through documents disclosed through a host of court cases, Davies has pieced together information that suggests figures at the top of the Murdoch news empire—including potentially…

1
ITR Confidential "The Campus Divide: Education's Role in Liberal Protest" 1:10:16

4M ago1:10:16

1:10:16

In this confidential episode of Is This Real? Podcast, we embark on a thought-provoking exploration into the intersection of education and liberal protest. Delving into a sensitive and nuanced topic, we seek to unpack the complex dynamics that shape the relationship between education and activism.With the rise of liberal protests on college campuse…

1
The phone hacking scandal: new evidence and fresh claims 45:39

4M ago45:39

45:39

Back in 2009, journalist Nick Davies uncovered a scandal: newspapers owned by Rupert Murdoch had been hacking the phones of celebrities, public figures and even victims of crimes—notably the missing schoolgirl Milly Dowler—in search of stories. The Leveson inquiry was established to investigate, and the world moved on. For this month’s Prospect mag…

1
Introducing: The Competition 7:10

4M ago7:10

7:10

Every summer for the past seven decades, 50 high school seniors—one from every state—descend on Mobile, Alabama to take part in one of the country’s most lucrative scholarship competitions for teen girls. The Competition takes you behind the scenes of the Distinguished Young Women (DYW) program, and follows seven girls as they experience the highs …

1
Meloni’s Media Clampdown 45:36

4M ago45:36

45:36

Lionel Barber and Alan Rusbridger are joined by Maurizio Molinari, editor of Italian daily newspaper La Repubblica to explore exactly what Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is doing with Italian state media. Renowned historian Antonio Scurati was booked to deliver a monologue on a talk show on Italian broadcaster RAI 3 on 25th April, Italy’s Liberation…

1
The West Bank according to Gideon Levy: Locked inside a living hell 48:59

4M ago48:59

48:59

Tensions in the Middle East ramped up at the weekend with the massive drone and missile attack launched by Iran on Israel. The eyes of the world refocused on the region, particularly Gaza—but what about the other occupied Palestinian territory, the West Bank? Gideon Levy is an award-winning journalist who has been writing a column in Haaretz called…

1
In the Shadows of Scientology: Uncovering the Truth 53:36

4M ago53:36

53:36

In this captivating episode of the "Is This Real?" podcast, we embark on a journey into the secretive world of Scientology. Titled "In the Shadows of Scientology: Uncovering the Truth," this episode offers listeners a rare glimpse behind the curtain of one of the most controversial and enigmatic religions of our time. Join us as we delve deep into …

1
Anne Applebaum on Ukraine, the forgotten war 53:28

5M ago53:28

53:28

The war in Ukraine has been grinding on for over two years now, and the media spotlight on the region has dimmed over the last few months. But Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and writer for the Atlantic, has been following the conflict closely. Because much of the world’s media has turned attention away from Ukraine, with editors…

1
The Anatomy of Hate: Decoding the Westboro Baptist Church 53:40

5M ago53:40

53:40

In this riveting episode of the "Is This Real?" podcast, we delve deep into the heart of one of America's most controversial religious groups: the Westboro Baptist Church. Titled "The Anatomy of Hate: Decoding the Westboro Baptist Church," this episode offers a penetrating examination of the ideology, tactics, and impact of this polarizing organiza…

1
Israel kicks out Al Jazeera 39:28

5M ago39:28

39:28

Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu has passed a law that will ban foreign media from operating within the country. Al Jazeera is one of the main outlets on the ground providing reportage, and the most watched network in the region—so what impact will the closure of their operations in Israel have on the ability to get news out of the war zone? Alan …

1
The Final Chapter: Understanding The Book of Revelation 1:35:41

5M ago1:35:41

1:35:41

Welcome to a captivating episode of "Is This Real?" where we embark on a journey through the mystical and prophetic realms of The Book of Revelation. In "The Final Chapter: Understanding The Book of Revelation," we delve into the ancient text's enigmatic passages, seeking to unravel its profound messages and timeless significance. Join us as we nav…

1
The GB News Propaganda Machine 50:18

5M ago50:18

50:18

This week, Alan Rusbridger and Lionel Barber are joined by Gavin Esler and Michael Crick as they get stuck into GB News, broadcaster bias—and what it’s like to watch and appear on the channel. Previously, Alan had tasked Gavin with watching GB News’s output for a month. The outcome? Tory MPs interviewing Tory MPs, “shallow” reporting, and a lack of…

1
The Miraculous Seer: Padre Pio's Predictions Examined 1:06:41

5M ago1:06:41

1:06:41

Welcome to a transcendent episode of "Is This Real?" where we venture into the realms of the mystical and divine. In "The Miraculous Seer: Padre Pio's Predictions Examined," we unravel the extraordinary gift possessed by the revered saint and mystic, Padre Pio. Join us on a spiritual odyssey as we delve into Padre Pio's prophetic revelations, exami…

1
Counting the casualties of war 53:12

5M ago53:12

53:12

In any war, counting the number of people killed is challenging. So, too, is understanding how they died. In Gaza, where the still-rising death toll already includes 13,450 children, these figures can be obscured by biases, allegations—and the realities on the ground. In this week’s episode, Lionel Barber and Alan Rusbridger are joined by leading s…

1
The Jonestown Massacre: A Chilling Chapter in Cult History 1:17:46

5M ago1:17:46

1:17:46

Welcome to a chilling and thought-provoking episode of "Is This Real?" where we delve into the harrowing story of Jim Jones and the infamous Jonestown massacre. We navigate the rise and fall of Jim Jones, a charismatic leader who led his followers to an unimaginable fate in the heart of Guyana. Join us as we explore the genesis of the Peoples Templ…

1
Gary Younge: Dog bites man is the story after all 50:31

5M ago50:31

50:31

Journalists are often taught that “when a dog bites a man, that is not news; when a man bites a dog, that is news.” But, according to former Guardian journalist and professor of sociology at Manchester university Gary Younge, sometimes events are newsworthy because they happen often—journalists just need to get curious about the reasons why. For ex…

1
Prophet or Charlatan? Unraveling the Enigma of Joseph Smith 59:30

6M ago59:30

59:30

Welcome to a thought-provoking episode of "Is This Real?" where we embark on an exploration of faith, revelations, and the complex legacy of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saints movement. In "Prophet or Charlatan? Unraveling the Enigma of Joseph Smith," we delve into the life of this controversial figure, from his early years in Palmy…

1
Trump’s Public Enemy Number One? 57:58

6M ago57:58

57:58

Alan and Lionel sit down with AG Sulzberger, chair and publisher of the New York Times. AG took over as publisher of the New York Times six years ago after many years as a hack. His term coincided with that of Donald J Trump, for whom the Times was public enemy number one. AG stood his ground, telling the president to his face that his anti-press r…

1
From Faith to Fear: Angels Landing and Its Dark Secrets 1:03:08

6M ago1:03:08

1:03:08

Join us as we peel back the layers of secrecy surrounding the enigmatic Angels Landing cult. From whispers of celestial devotion to the shadows of suspicion, we delve into the captivating saga that surrounds this mysterious group. We examine the beliefs, practices, and the charismatic figures that have drawn followers into their fold. What lies beh…

1
The demise of Vice and BuzzFeed: what happened to millennial media? 49:45

6M ago49:45

49:45

Vice and BuzzFeed were once at the forefront of the digital media revolution—Vice alone was once valued at nearly double the New York Times! But now, both firms have shut their news operations, Vice has closed its flagship site, and further cuts to staff numbers are expected. BuzzFeed’s former UK editor Janine Gibson, now weekend editor of the Fina…

1
Mysteries of the Papal Prophecy: Saint Malachy's Vision 58:47

6M ago58:47

58:47

Join us as we decipher the cryptic verses attributed to Saint Malachy, exploring the prophecies that purportedly foretell the characteristics and destinies of the popes. From Celestine II to Francis, each pontiff's description is said to offer a glimpse into their reign. We navigate the historical context, the controversies surrounding the propheci…

1
Bonus episode: Should Paul Marshall be allowed to buy the Telegraph? 21:09

6M ago21:09

21:09

An investigation by Hope Not Hate reported this week that Paul Marshall, owner of GB News and UnHerd and frontrunner in the race to buy the Telegraph, had repeatedly liked and re-tweeted racist and Islamophobic content. In this special bonus episode, Alan and Lionel discuss who decides whether someone is fit to own a major UK newspaper, what Ofcom …

1
Are journalists being targeted in Gaza? 43:42

6M ago43:42

43:42

Does the word “PRESS” on a flak jacket keep a journalist safe or make them a target? In this week’s Media Confidential, we focus on the sobering death toll of reporters covering the war in Gaza, as highlighted by the annual report of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). Alan and Lionel hear from the CPJ’s chief executive Jodie Ginsberg and s…

1
Beyond the Comet: The Rise and Fall of Heaven's Gate 1:23:37

6M ago1:23:37

1:23:37

Welcome to "Beyond the Comet: The Rise and Fall of Heaven's Gate," a riveting podcast episode that takes you on a journey through the captivating and tragic story of the Heaven's Gate cult. In this episode, we delve into the origins of the cult, tracing its roots and exploring the charismatic leaders who captivated followers with their unique blend…

1
Is This Real? 2024 Celebrity Deadpool 40:16

6M ago40:16

40:16

Welcome to a riveting episode of "Is This Real?" as we embark on a wild journey through the unpredictable landscape of fame and fortune with the 2024 Celebrity Deadpool. Join us as we navigate the ever-shifting world of celebrity news, scandals, and triumphs to make our bold predictions for the year. In this episode, we engage in speculative discus…

1
Welcome to Is This Real? Podcast 0:29

6M ago0:29

0:29

JFK, 9/11, Roswell, Area 51, Antifa. These are just some of the topics we will discuss in some questionable details that will make you think Is This Real?

1
Ask the Editors: Ofcom, GB News and Biden on TikTok 47:51

6M ago47:51

47:51

What motivates the media world behind the clickbait? What drives broadcast, print and digital media producers and journalists? In this episode, Alan Rusbridger and Lionel Barber answer listeners’ questions on media bias in an election year, the impact of 24-hour news on mental health, and whether President Biden should be active on TikTok. Plus—do …

1
Unpacking The Simpsons' Predictions: Coincidence or Foresight? (Special Guest Micheal Daw) 40:20

7M ago40:20

40:20

Ever wondered if 'The Simpsons' has a secret crystal ball? Join the debate as we sit down with Michael Daw, an actor and graphic designer, for a lively discussion on the show's eerie track record of predicting future events. From the prediction of Trump's presidency to smartwatch technology, we analyze these prophetic episodes and separate the unca…

1
Is this the future of local news? 47:43

7M ago47:43

47:43

Amid great concern over the provision of local news in the UK and beyond, could organisations such as the Manchester Mill and the Bristol Cable challenge famous old papers in some of Britain’s biggest cities and calm long-term fears of areas becoming “news deserts”? Alan and Lionel hear from Joshi Herrmann and Sophie Atkinson from Manchester Mill a…

1
From St. Valentine to Modern Love A Historical and Personal Take 1:14:08

7M ago1:14:08

1:14:08

Have you ever really pondered the origins of those heart-shaped candies and grand romantic gestures that define February 14th? Join us as we peel back the petals of Valentine's Day, exploring its rich tapestry from the legend of St. Valentine to the modern dynamics of love and affection. It's not just a day for those struck by Cupid's arrow; we're …

1
The Sinister Saga of Charles Manson and his Murderous Disciples 1:30:10

7M ago1:30:10

1:30:10

Embark on a harrowing journey with us, JC3, Big Joe, Mr. West, and the Pope, as we unravel the twisted tale of the Manson Family Murders. Step into a world where Charles Manson's troubled past as a neglected child morphs into the horrifying reality of a cult leader, orchestrating one of the most brutal chapters in history. From his flirtations with…

1
Is the right-wing media ‘out of control’? 42:17

7M ago42:17

42:17

Can Rishi Sunak still rely on what has often been called the “Conservative media”, or are news organisations on the political right becoming increasingly hostile to the prime minister? Journalist David Aaronovitch helps Alan and Lionel analyse who and what is driving significant cultural and political shifts in some of the UK’s newsrooms and media …

1
Beyond the Quatrains: Nostradamus Revealed 1:13:24

7M ago1:13:24

1:13:24

Dare to unlock the mysteries of Nostradamus with us, as we traverse through snow to bring you a captivating discussion about this Renaissance master of the arcane. Joined by guest historians, we peel back the layers of Michel de Notre Dame's life, revealing a man who not only revolutionized medicine but also delved into the enigmatic realm of proph…

1
How the government captured the BBC 50:11

7M ago50:11

50:11

Alan’s investigation into “Gibb-gate” continues. In a major article for Prospect, he sets out the influence and connections of a tight-knit and largely unaccountable clique which is undermining the political independence and regulation of public service broadcasting. At the centre of that group is Robbie Gibb, Theresa May’s director of communicatio…

1
Behind the Red Robes The Unsettling Story of Rajneeshpuram 1:07:44

7M ago1:07:44

1:07:44

Step inside the twisted world of the Rajneeshpuram cult with our latest episode, where an enigmatic Indian guru's quest for utopia leads to a scandalous slice of Oregon's history. We spotlight the tumultuous rise and fall of the Rajneeshpuram commune, starting from their head-scratching financial prowess in acquiring a vast ranch, to their audaciou…

1
Trump v Biden, Round Two: how to cover the US election 46:02

7M ago46:02

46:02

Is Donald Trump now unstoppable in his quest to secure the Republican presidential nomination, after kicking off caucus season with a decisive win in Iowa? As Trump shapes up for another shot at the White House, Alan and Lionel ask how US media can pitch their coverage and analysis to ensure scrutiny of such an unreliable and divisive figure, witho…

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