Best Plot Recon Podcasts (2025)

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The Side Hustle with Brian Drake 49:38

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11d ago49:38

49:38

In this episode of Plot Recon, host Evan Graver interviews author Brian Drake, who shares his journey into the world of action fiction. Brian discusses his writing process, the importance of character development, and the challenges of balancing series and standalone novels. He emphasizes the need for continuous learning in writing and the signific…

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How Different Countries Execute Covert Action | Magda Long & Rory Cormac | Ep. 389 1:25:21

30m ago1:25:21

1:25:21

This conversation explores the multifaceted nature of covert action in international relations, featuring insights from academics Magda Long and Rory Cormack. They discuss the definitions, historical contexts, and varying approaches to covert action across different nations, emphasizing the role of non-state actors and the implications for global p…

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Long Range Recon Patrol (LRRP) in Vietnam | Larry Chambers (throwback ep) 1:52:53

2d ago1:52:53

1:52:53

original airdate - 01/20/23 A national award winning artist (First place winner in the 2011 National Veterans Creative Arts Contest). Chambers is one of 13 exhibiting artists acknowledged by the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commission to honor and pay tribute to Vietnam Veterans and their families during the 50th Anniversary of the war comme…

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F-150 Lightning Killed, ID. Buzz Halted, Restoring Classics Rides for Modern Drivers 56:58

2d ago56:58

56:58

Jill and Tom open the show addressing two high-profile electric vehicle cancellations announced this past week. First the hosts discuss the end of production for the Ford F-150 Lighting, which came as something of a surprise to both Jill and Tom. Also covered is news that Volkswagen will not be importing a 2026 edition of the spunky ID. Buzz electr…

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So Is It Just For Oil in Venezuela? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 51:49

5d ago51:49

51:49

In this episode of Eyes on Geopolitics, the hosts discuss various pressing global issues, including U.S. military posturing in Venezuela, the humanitarian crisis in Israel and Gaza, the implications of unlawful military orders, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and Russia. They explore the complexities of international relations, military strateg…

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The Future of Espionage & Intelligence Operations | Anthony Vinci | Ep. 388 1:55:06

7d ago1:55:06

1:55:06

In this episode, Anthony Vinci shares his journey into the intelligence community, detailing his experiences as a case officer in military intelligence and his work with the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA). He discusses the evolution of intelligence operations post-9/11, the impact of technolo…

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Retired SMU Operator | Pat McNamara (throwback episode) 1:53:04

9d ago1:53:04

1:53:04

Original airdate- 01/10/2023 Pat McNamara is a retired U.S. Army special operations veteran with decades of experience spanning Cold War Europe, Somalia, and post-9/11 operations, and is widely known for his no-nonsense approach to training and leadership. He now focuses on mentoring, fitness, and mental resilience through teaching and public engag…

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Failing EV Startups, Redesigned Kia Seltos, Chicago Auto Show News 55:45

10d ago55:45

55:45

Jill and Tom open this week’s show acknowledging that Vietnamese EV startup VinFast is likely to cease U.S. operations in the very near future. The hosts also note that another EV startup, Bollinger Motors, has called it quits. Tom discusses his time in the Jeep Wrangler, this example powered by the available 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, instead …

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WTF are we Actually Doing in Venezuela? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 53:16

12d ago53:16

53:16

In this episode, Dee and Mick Mulroy discuss the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, focusing on the implications of U.S. sanctions on the Maduro regime and the potential for military intervention. They highlight the role of Maria Karenna Machado as a legitimate leader and the risks of a power vacuum if Maduro were to leave. The conversation also touches …

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One of the UK's Deadliest Snipers | Ted Shirley | Ep. 386 1:19:32

13d ago1:19:32

1:19:32

Ted Shirley is a former British Army sniper who served multiple deployments in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, and the author of Afghanistan Sniper. He now speaks publicly about combat, moral injury, PTSD, and recovery, using his experience to challenge stigma around mental health in the military and veteran community. Grab Ted's book "Afghanistan S…

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The First Female CIA Officer in Moscow, The Widow Spy | Marti Peterson (throwback episode) 2:29:40

17d ago2:29:40

2:29:40

Original airdate 7/16/2021 In this episode, the team sits down with legendary CIA case officer Marty Peterson, whose Cold War mission in Moscow led to one of the most dramatic KGB arrests of the era. Marty walks through running a top Soviet asset, the night of the failed dead drop, her capture at Lubyanka Prison, and what she later learned about he…

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Polestar Price Cuts, Ram 2500 Review, Best Films of the Past 40 Years 55:49

16d ago55:49

55:49

Jill and Tom open the show by discussing the recently rolled-back federal fuel-economy standards, and the implication for carmakers in the near term. Tom then shares—to his great amusement--the long, complicated, and multinational route by which the Polestar 4 crossover arrives in the United States. Hint: Five countries are involved. The hosts also…

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Inside the Disastrous New U.S. Security Strategy | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 54:12

19d ago54:12

54:12

In this episode, the team breaks down the newly released U.S. National Security Strategy, calling out its dramatic shift away from Europe, democracy promotion, and traditional alliances in favor of a hardline, transactional, Western Hemisphere–first approach. They dive into what this means for Russia, Ukraine, NATO, mass migration, and the growing …

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CIA Targeting Officer Reveals Terror Plots You Never Heard About | Mike Croissant 1:39:59

21d ago1:39:59

1:39:59

Former CIA analyst and counterterrorism targeting officer Mike Croissant breaks down his 22-year intelligence career, from being inside Langley on 9/11 to hunting extremists overseas. He walks through disrupted homeland plots, warzone targeting work, and efforts to shut down Taliban financing networks. Mike also shares the powerful story behind his…

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Bin Laden Sighted in 2005 in Pakistan with Jack Murphy & Sean Naylor 51:17

23d ago51:17

51:17

In this episode, Dee, Jack Murphy, and Sean Naylor delve into a significant story about a sighting of Osama Bin Laden that was captured on camera by a CIA contractor. They discuss the backstory of how the information was gathered, the analysis of the photographs, and the implications of the CIA's findings. The conversation also explores the complex…

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Lucid Gravity Review, Jeep Recon Reveal, Winter Driving Deep Dive 56:27

24d ago56:27

56:27

Jill and Tom open the show acknowledging a listener’s concerns regarding recent donut selections by Tom. This involves an apology to Producer Randy. (See the Car Stuff Podcast Facebook page for pictures of recent donut selections.) Tom discusses some issues he had driving the excellent 2026 Nissan Leaf EV crossover. Tom’s issues include getting sno…

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Biotechnology and Ethical Dilemmas with John R. Carlos 34:20

25d ago34:20

34:20

In this episode of Plot Recon, host Evan Graver interviews John R. Carlos, a former Royal Australian Air Force member turned author, about his debut novel, Chronic Dreams Awakening. The conversation explores John's transition from military service to storytelling, the themes of his book, including biotechnology and the ethical implications of techn…

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The DC Shooter Worked for CIA | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 53:16

26d ago53:16

53:16

In this episode, the hosts discuss various geopolitical issues, including a recent shooting incident involving National Guardsmen, the implications of PTSD on military personnel, and the challenges faced by Afghan allies seeking immigration to the U.S. They also delve into the effectiveness of special operations forces in military engagements, part…

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Inside GSG 9 (Germany's Tier 1 Counter Terrorist Unit) | Martin Herzog | Ep. 383 2:12:25

28d ago2:12:25

2:12:25

This episode dives into the rise of modern counterterrorism in Germany, tracing how the failures of Munich ’72 led to the creation of GSG-9. Our guest, Martin Herzog, breaks down the Lufthansa hijacking, the Mogadishu raid, and the evolution of state response to terrorism. A sharp, detailed look at one of the most defining counterterror operations …

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The Donroe Doctrine 2 - Trump's Strategy for Regime Change in Venezuela 23:31

29d ago23:31

23:31

On this episode of Plot Recon, Evan Graver delves into potential regime change in Venezuela, discussing the implications of such a shift on global geopolitics, particularly regarding U.S. strategies and the influence of other nations like Russia and China. Send us a text Support the showBy Evan Graver

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From Marine to Army SMU Operator | Varpas De Sa Pereira | Ep. 382 1:58:01

1M ago1:58:01

1:58:01

This interview features Varpas, a decorated, retired Marine Corps officer and Tier 1 Special Operations operator, detailing his intense career and the harsh realities of transitioning out of elite service. He discusses his unique psychological model, Warrior Withdrawal, which maps the emotional and identity struggles of leaving the hyper-focused wa…

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BMW X3, Future of Hands Free Driving, Jeep's New Engine 58:38

1M ago58:38

58:38

Jill and Tom open the show accepting the challenge of a listener. Tom was tasked to purchase more exciting donuts than the usual collection of double chocolates and powdered cinnamons. Listen in for this week’s expanded options list. Tom shares some interesting Jeep news. The updated 2026 Grand Cherokee will be optionally powered by Stellantis’ new…

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The 28 Point Peace Plan for Ukraine is Garbage | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 54:34

1M ago54:34

54:34

In this episode, the hosts discuss the controversial 28-point peace plan for Ukraine and Russia, analyzing its implications for Ukraine, NATO, and global geopolitics. They delve into the battlefield situation in Ukraine, the role of European allies, and the technological advancements in warfare. The conversation also touches on the political landsc…

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Serving in Delta Force & TFO | Pete Gallagher | Ep. 381 2:36:28

1M ago2:36:28

2:36:28

In this episode, Major General Pete Gallagher shares his extensive military career, detailing his journey from a young boy in Kansas to a distinguished leader in the U.S. Army. He discusses his early life, the impact of his father's death, and how it motivated him to pursue a military career. Gallagher reflects on his experiences in ROTC, his role …

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1000+ Missions with the 75th Ranger Regiment | Nicholas Moore (throwback episode) 2:26:43

1M ago2:26:43

2:26:43

original air date - 9/30/22 This episode dives deep into the combat career of Ranger Nicholas Moore, tracing his journey from early deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq to some of the most significant operations of the post-9/11 era. He recounts the inside story of Operation Red Wings, the hunt for Marcus Luttrell, the Extortion 17 shootdown, and th…

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2027 Kia Telluride, All-New Polestar 4, Plotting the Future of Infiniti 55:58

1M ago55:58

55:58

Tom opens the show by recapping briefly his time in the Lucid Air Touring electric luxury sedan. Tom is impressed by the Lucid, but does have one (big) complaint. The hosts go on to discuss rumors that Tesla will be ADDING the Apple CarPlay feature to some or all of its models in the near future. A huge new Honda recall will affect the owners of ce…

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The Donroe Doctrine Explained 32:20

1M ago32:20

32:20

In this episode, Evan Graver discusses the geopolitical landscape surrounding his John Phoenix series, focusing on the tensions between Venezuela and Guyana, the implications of the Donroe Doctrine, and China's growing influence in Latin America. He explores the military dynamics under Maduro's regime, the drug trade's impact on corruption, and pot…

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Ahmed al-Sharaa (Syrian President) Worked With U.S. Since 2016 | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 50:05

1M ago50:05

50:05

In this episode, the hosts discuss various geopolitical issues, focusing on the recent developments in Syria, the role of Saudi Arabia in the Middle East, and the potential military actions in Venezuela. They explore the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, the pragmatic approach to dealing with dictators, and the implications of military strategie…

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Inside the Fight with 5th Special Forces Group | Drew Estell | Ep. 380 1:32:25

1M ago1:32:25

1:32:25

Former 5th Group Green Beret Drew Estelle joins Jack to walk through his wild path from a chaotic Texas childhood to Iraq, Afghanistan, and covert work supporting the Syria mission. Drew breaks down Iranian influence in Iraq, the intelligence nightmare in Kunduz, building ALP who actually fought, and the political headaches behind training Syrian f…

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Transporting Readers to New Locations with Andrew Warren 50:36

1M ago50:36

50:36

In this episode of Plot Recon, host Evan Graver interviews bestselling author Andrew Warren, who shares insights into his journey from screenwriting to writing thrillers. They discuss the importance of inspiration, discipline, and the balance between plotting and pantsing in the writing process. Andrew reflects on the impact of education on his wri…

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How Intelligence Agencies Would Operate in an Authoritarian America | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 57:08

2M ago57:08

57:08

Former CIA officers Mick Mulroy, Marc Polymeropoulos, and Jason Lyons join Dee to explore a chilling hypothetical — what if the U.S. turned authoritarian? The panel breaks down how allies and adversaries might react, how intelligence operations would shift, and what it means for democracy at home and abroad. A rare, insider look at the intersection…

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Celebrating 300 Episodes! Biggest News Stories of the Past 6 Years, Best $30,000 New Vehicles 56:48

1M ago56:48

56:48

To celebrate the 300th episode of the Car Stuff Podcast, Jill and Tom are joined by Jennifer Newman and Damon Bell of Cars.com. Jennifer was the podcast’s first guest, and Damon was co-host for the first three years of the show. Jennifer and Damon share the Cars.com picks for the best vehicles under $30,000. That conversation dovetailed nicely with…

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Trump, Orbán, and the Ridiculous Venezuela Vote | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 53:52

2M ago53:52

53:52

Dee, Mick Mulroy, and Andy Milburn break down the week’s biggest geopolitical flashpoints — from Trump’s meeting with Viktor Orbán and Hungary’s deepening ties to Russia, to the U.S. Senate’s shocking Venezuela war vote. The trio also examines Israel’s Gaza ceasefire dilemma, global intelligence maneuvers, and the moral cost of modern warfare. A sh…

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Only Two NYPD Cops Went to Afghanistan - He Was One of Them | Tom Smith | Ep. 379 1:30:10

2M ago1:30:10

1:30:10

Retired NYPD detective Tom Smith joins the show to recount three decades on the force — from the crack epidemic and 9/11 to counterterrorism and major international cases. He shares raw stories of trauma, resilience, and redemption, and reflects on the mental toll of policing, the evolution of the job, and his new mission through the Gold Shields p…

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Ranger Regiment Platoon Sergeant in Syria and Afghanistan | Les Sandusky (throwback episode) 4:12:36

2M ago4:12:36

4:12:36

original air date 12/14/22 Former Ranger Les Sandusky joins the show for a candid, four-hour deep dive into combat, leadership, and life after the Regiment. From firefights in Syria and Iraq to rebuilding purpose after injury and RFS, Les opens up about resilience, loss, and redemption. A raw, unfiltered conversation on what it means to serve — and…

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New Ram SUV, Subaru BRZ Review, Audi's High-Tech Headlights 58:03

2M ago58:03

58:03

Jill and Tom open the show discussing Tom’s take on the future of Apple CarPlay. You can read Tom’s recent blog post on the topic here. The hosts also discuss Ram’s new SUV, which is due sometime as a 2028 model. Expect the truck to be mechanically similar to the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Next topic is a trio of boundary-pushing Lexus concept cars seen …

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We are Going to Bomb Venezuela | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 47:26

2M ago47:26

47:26

In this episode of Eyes on Geopolitics, Dee and Mick Mulroy discuss the escalating military presence in Venezuela, exploring the implications of U.S. foreign policy, the legality of military actions, and the potential for regime change. They delve into the constitutional concerns surrounding the War Powers Act, the role of diplomacy, and the politi…

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Ranger to Writer with Sean Hagerty 50:09

2M ago50:09

50:09

In this episode of Plot Recon, host Evan Graver interviews Sean Haggerty, a retired special operations sergeant major turned author. They discuss Sean's military background, his transition to writing, and the creative process behind his thrillers. Sean shares insights on publishing, marketing strategies, and the importance of networking in the writ…

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Canadian Special Operations Face Off with ISIS | Sebastian "Butch" Bouchard | Ep. 378 2:05:10

2M ago2:05:10

2:05:10

Sebastian Bouchard, a veteran of the Canadian Special Operations Regiment (CSOR), recounts his 15-year career, beginning with the unit's founding after the infamous Airborne Regiment disbandment and detailing the brutal selection process . His operational history spans night raids in Afghanistan, a chaotic deployment in Libya, and intense close-qua…

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From Delta Force Operator to Professional Mercenary | Dale Comstock (throwback episode) 2:38:38

2M ago2:38:38

2:38:38

Original Airdate 6/24/22 Dale Comstock was the youngest operator in Delta Force when he joined from the 82nd Airborne and was the master breacher on the military's first successful hostage rescue mission, Operation Acid Gambit which rescued Kurt Muse from the clutches of Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega. Comstock's adventures didn't end when he r…

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Killing CarPlay, Driving the McLaren GT, Fuel Cells for Big Trucks 56:06

2M ago56:06

56:06

Paul Herrold of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. Jill will be back for next week’s show. Paul and Tom open the show by discussing consumer-battery maker Duracell’s foray into electric-vehicle charging. Duracell branded car chargers are showing up now in the U.K., and are expected to arrive in the U.S. in the not-to-distant future. The …

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Is the U.S. Actually Going to Attack Venezuela? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 1:04:42

2M ago1:04:42

1:04:42

In this episode of Eyes On Geopolitics, Dee, Andy, Mick, and Jack discuss the current geopolitical landscape, focusing on Venezuela's military situation, U.S. foreign policy, and the implications of military actions. They explore the complexities of regime change, the legal and ethical considerations of military engagement, and the public's percept…

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Navy SEAL, Homicide Detective, & Secret Service Agent | Frank Larkin | Ep. 377 2:33:41

2M ago2:33:41

2:33:41

Frank Larkin recounts his long career path from Navy SEAL and Secret Service agent to Senate Sergeant-at-Arms, including a gripping personal account of his actions at the World Trade Center on 9/11. However, the central theme is the tragic story of his son, Navy SEAL Ryan Larkin, who took his own life after years of struggling with undiagnosed symp…

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Code Over Country: The Tragedy and Corruption of SEAL Team Six | Matthew Cole (throwback ep) 2:36:52

2M ago2:36:52

2:36:52

Original airdate 3/11/22 The Navy SEALs are, for most Americans, the ultimate heroes. Their 2011 killing of Osama Bin Laden was celebrated as a victory in the War on Terror. Former SEALs rake in thousands of dollars as leadership consultants for American corporations. And young men who want to join the military dream of serving in their elite ranks…

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Ford's "i-Pod" Steering Wheel, VW Golf R, Stellantis Manufacturing Shakeup 57:22

2M ago57:22

57:22

Jill returns this week after a two-show absence to participate in the 2025 edition of the Rebelle Rally. After Jill wraps up her thoughts on the event, Tom shares news regarding Toyota launching a new premium brand to be positioned above Lexus in the maker’s corporate portfolio. Tom goes onto complain about/fawn over the new steering wheel controls…

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Ceasefire in Gaza Lasted 10 Days | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 56:48

2M ago56:48

56:48

In this episode, Dee and Mick Mulroy discuss the current geopolitical landscape, focusing on the collapsing ceasefire in Gaza, the complexities of internal politics in the region, and the potential for U.S. military action in Venezuela. They also delve into the role of the CIA in covert operations and the ongoing discussions surrounding military su…

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Inside MARSOC Controversies: Toxic Leaders and Moral Lines | Ivan Ingraham | Ep. 376 1:52:52

2M ago1:52:52

1:52:52

Ivan Ingraham returns for his second appearance to dive deeper into the powerful themes of his novel, Once We Pledged Forever, which examines the intense psychological and moral challenges faced by Marine special operations officers. Ingraham shares his insights on the corrosive effects of toxic leadership and MARSOC controversies, contrasting the …

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Peace in Gaza isn't Going to Last | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS 34:58

2M ago34:58

34:58

In this episode, the hosts discuss the recent ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, the return of hostages, and the challenges that lie ahead in the peace process. They explore the political dynamics involving Netanyahu and Hamas, the feasibility of international stabilization forces, and the internal conflicts within Gaza. The conversation highlight…

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Flying into Fiction with Nathan Van Coops 41:37

2M ago41:37

41:37

In this episode of Plot Recon, host Evan Graver interviews Nathan Van Coops, an author known for his aviation thrillers and time travel adventures. Nathan shares his journey from aviation to writing, discussing the importance of authenticity in storytelling, the benefits of self-publishing, and the strategic choices he made in marketing and charact…

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Chevrolet Bolt Returns, Driving an Electric Lotus, Talking Big Pickups 56:53

2M ago56:53

56:53

Paul Herrold of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. The hosts open the show by discussing the reborn Chevrolet Bolt small electric crossover. Pricing comes in about $5000 below the least-expensive Chevy Equinox EV, at around $30,000. Paul and Tom also discussed the new Tesla Model 3 and Model Y “Standard" models, which are both priced aro…