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JWSP

JWSP

By: Alex Midway and Eric Halsey
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About this listen

John Wayne's Surge Protector podcast is two guys discussing the world around us on a twice weekly basis. We try to look at things that we think are huge deals and sometimes those items are also flying under the radar for a lot of other media channels. Having known each other for many years some of the jokes you hear may not come off as jokes. Keep listening and you will get in the loop soon enough as well. We have a link to leave any feedback in most of the episodes so don't hesitate to reach out.

© 2026 John Wayne's Surge Protector
Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • The Blockade, the Bomber, and the Gift Cards
    Mar 31 2026

    Tesla's back in the news and the stock is making moves — but is the reason behind the jump as solid as it sounds? This week also brings some eyebrow-raising developments on the Russia front, including a tanker that somehow sailed right through a blockade with a very casual White House response. Ukraine's drone campaign is still putting in work, and there's a grim anniversary this week that's worth remembering.

    The Iran conflict takes a serious turn with a major US asset destroyed in a strike — one that raises some uncomfortable questions about preparation and priorities. Speaking of priorities, we get into some recent personnel decisions at the FBI that start to make a lot more sense once you learn who those agents were investigating.

    On the home front, the TSA is back in the news — again — and there's a feel-good story involving a Hollywood heavyweight that somehow still manages to go sideways. We've also got some thoughts on religion, war, and the interesting gap between what's being preached at the Pentagon versus what's coming out of the Vatican.

    And we close out with two stories that really capture the week — one involving a state senator's chief of staff whose Snapchat habits caught up with him thanks to one very justified mother, and another update from the front lines of Russian patriotism that continues to deliver.

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    43 mins
  • Sanctions, Satellites, and Sharpies
    Mar 27 2026

    This week's episode has something for everyone — markets, mayhem, and a whole lot of people in power doing questionable things. Tesla's stock is on a ride, and there are some big predictions about where the company might be headed. The DOGE drama gets a new chapter as the courts weigh in on whether Elon Musk is actually running the show — or if someone else is technically in charge (wink).

    On the international front, Ukraine is having quite the week — turns out a small country with a lot of drones can do some serious damage. Meanwhile the US is asking Ukraine to make some pretty significant concessions, and Marco Rubio has some thoughts about that... sort of. There's also a Capitol Hill moment that'll make you do a double take involving some very notable guests.

    The Iran conflict takes a few unexpected turns, and when you start connecting the dots between Russia, satellites, and some missing Pentagon responses, things get interesting fast. We'll also get into what's happening with America's weapons stockpile — and what the White House has to say about it.

    On the home front: a surprise award, a historic election result near a very famous golf resort, a hacker group making headlines, and a budget win from the Oval Office that involves a very specific office supply. And we close out with a story that is equal parts tragic and a masterclass in what NOT to do on social media.

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    45 mins
  • The Port Attacks, the Fake Flags, and the Real Deal: The Truman Show of Global Tensions
    Mar 25 2026

    Most of us are just trying to keep up with the chaos. But what if the real story isn’t what’s on the news — it’s what’s behind all of it? In this episode, we unravel the bizarre world of international drone warfare, political shenanigans, and the mind-boggling decisions making world leaders look like they’re playing 4D chess while everyone else is just trying not to trip over it. Spoiler: nobody wins when Ukraine’s drones start playing “autonomous” chess with Russian refineries. You’ll discover how a Ukrainian startup called Swarmer is on the verge of turning the drone game upside down, with AI-controlled tech that’s already raking in millions. Plus, listen in as we break down the insane logic behind lifting sanctions on Russia, Iran, and Ukraine—all at the same time—and why that makes about as much sense as a screen door on a submarine. We also cover the latest on Port of Primorsk, secret military bases, and why Iran might be the ultimate scapegoat in this global theater of chaos. We’ll also take you through the crazy implications of secret military operations, international alliances, and the surprising role of some of the most controversial figures in defense and politics—plus the real story behind the “Save America Act” and some hilariously questionable election tactics. And let’s not forget the hero of the moment—Chuck Norris—who’s apparently the only guy who could still throw a roundhouse kick in his sleep and keep things interesting. Perfect for anyone who wants to stay sane while the world feels like it’s flipping the script faster than you can say “global conspiracy.” If you’re tired of hearing the news and want the dirt straight from people who are just as confused but way more entertaining, this episode’s your new go-to. Buckle up, it’s a wild ride — and yes, we’re just as surprised as you are that it’s all happening right now.

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    36 mins
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