Rivera and Reeves | Insider Feed

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comWelcome to another episode of Rivera and Reeves where we tackle the biggest news stories with zero filter and maximum memes. This week, Meseidy and Rachel team up with foreign policy extraordinaire Amanda Peterson to break down Trump’s Israel-Gaza peace deal (or is it?), Bibi’s White House visit, and why Hamas keeps hitting snooze on ending their own so-called “genocide.”Then we pivot to Secretary Hegseth’s epic smackdown of out-of-shape generals, the media’s predictable Hitler comparisons, and why telling military officers to do a pull-up is apparently controversial in 2025.But wait—the real star of this episode? The Great Sombrero Meme War. Trump posts a spicy AI meme, Hakeem Jeffries throws a struggle session press conference with Maxine Waters nodding in the background, and JD Vance just grins his way through the chaos. We break down why Republicans are winning the meme game and why Democrats are still trying to Brad their way back to relevance with academic think pieces nobody reads.Spoiler alert: The sombrero wins. It just does.Episode Highlights* The Peace Deal That May Not Bring Peace - Trump and Bibi announce a 20-point Gaza plan while Hamas leadership is literally locked in their Qatar hotel rooms deciding whether to stop their own “genocide.”* Tony Blair: Your New Middle East Peace Czar - Why the former UK Prime Minister is chairing the “Board of Peace” and what Jared Kushner’s investment fund has to do with the whole thing.* Hegseth’s No-BS Military Makeover - The Defense Secretary tells generals to stop being fat, ditch the pronouns, and maybe do some actual PT—and the media compares it to Hitler.* Sombrero-Gate Breaks the Internet - Trump posts an AI meme of Hakeem Jeffries in a sombrero, Democrats hold a struggle session press conference, and we explain why this is actually effective political messaging.* Why the Meme Game Is the New Political Battlefield - From Brat Summer to chubby JD Vance faces, we break down why Republicans are dominating online messaging while Democrats keep writing Atlantic think pieces nobody reads.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:* 4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack* 6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone else* Next Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works Better* For Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.* For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.* For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.Ready to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:* Hours of early access before everyone else* Dedicated ad-free podcast feed on Substack* Full video episodes right in your feed* Monthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)* Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere else* Community access with people who actually think for themselvesThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Listen For Free Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Israel-Palestine Situation03:05 The Peace Deal Negotiations09:31 Details of the Proposed Agreement12:57 Hamas’s Response and Regional Dynamics16:52 Trust Issues and Future Implications24:22 Turkey’s Role and International Relations27:14 Understanding the Dynamics of Israeli Command Structure29:38 The Geopolitical Landscape: Russia, China, and Military Strategies33:10 The Shift in Military Warfare: Drones and Modern Defense41:03 Hegseth’s Speech: A Call for Military Reform54:34 The Debate on Military Standards and Fitness55:58 The Subversion of Tradition56:57 The Military and Gender Norms57:37 Modernism vs. Postmodernism in Politics58:28 The Political Meme Game01:00:25 The Sombrero Meme Controversy01:05:18 The Role of Humor in Politics01:11:03 The Evolution of Political Messaging

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comRachel and Meseidy dive into the wildest superintendent scandal you’ve ever heard: a decorated Olympian, multiple doctorates, and... wait for it... a deportation order. How did Iowa’s largest school district manage to hire an illegal immigrant who may or may not have invented half his resume? Spoiler: Nobody did a background check because that would be racist, apparently.Then we’re heading to “war-ravaged” Portland (Trump’s words, not ours), where the National Guard is deploying to protect ICE facilities from protesters with laser pointers and a lot of feelings. Democrats say it’s fine, everything’s fine, look at these bubbles! Meanwhile, officers are boarding up windows and dodging projectiles. Totally normal stuff.Plus: Trump brands literally everything (Trump RX, anyone?), veterans and mental health, and why Rachel and Meseidy accidentally showed up with matching nails. Because if you’re going to discuss federal law enforcement, you might as well look cute doing it.Episode Highlights* Trump RX Launches Mid-Government Shutdown Drama President Trump announces a direct-to-consumer drug buying website with Pfizer in what may be the most strategically timed announcement ever, considering Democrats are currently screaming about ACA funding.* The Iowa Superintendent Who Wasn’t Supposed to Exist Ian Andre Roberts—Olympian, multiple doctorate holder, and superintendent of Iowa’s largest school district—gets arrested by ICE after fleeing in his government vehicle, exposing a hiring process that apparently skipped the “is this person here legally?” question.* Resume Fraud Gets an Olympic Gold Medal Turns out Roberts claimed degrees he didn’t have, may have been born in Ghana OR Brooklyn (depending on which interview you read), and nobody bothered to verify any of it because his resume was just that impressive.* “War-Ravaged Portland” Gets the National Guard Trump deploys troops to protect ICE facilities in Portland after months of attacks, boarded windows, and laser pointers aimed at helicopters—but sure, everything’s totally fine according to Oregon’s governor doing a TikTok tour.* Radical Empathy vs. Federal Law Iowa school board chair calls for “radical empathy” for the superintendent who lied about his credentials, fled from ICE, and had an illegal firearm—because apparently following the law is less important than feelings.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:* 4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack* 6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone else* Next Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works Better* For Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.* For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.* For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.Ready to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:* Hours of early access before everyone else* Dedicated ad-free podcast feed on Substack* Full video episodes right in your feed* Monthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)* Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere else* Community access with people who actually think for themselvesThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Listen For Free Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Current Events and Humor03:33 Trump’s Drug Buying Website Announcement06:31 Mental Health Crisis Among Veterans08:57 Illegal Immigration and the Iowa Superintendent Incident17:35 State Communication Failures and Background Checks21:57 The Role of Consulting Firms in Hiring Practices26:25 Media Narratives and Public Perception31:04 Diversity in Hiring and Accountability36:21 Protests and Public Response to Law Enforcement42:13 National Guard Deployment in Portland42:33 Trump’s National Guard Deployment and Its Implications46:03 Media Narratives and Public Perception48:25 Contrasting Perspectives on Portland’s Situation53:58 The Ongoing Tensions and Safety Concerns01:00:00 Legal Battles and Political Dynamics01:01:59 Future Prospects and Broader Implications

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comReady to peek behind the curtain of how your favorite independent journalists actually gather the news? In this unfiltered episode, Meseidy and Rachel expose their wildly different approaches to news sourcing—and spoiler alert: one of them just discovered you can search your Twitter bookmarks (looking at you, Rachel).While Meseidy operates like a tech-savvy newsroom with AI assistants, databases, and enough apps to make your head spin, Rachel’s over here with her trusty paper lists and printed articles, proving that sometimes old school just works. From AI hallucinations to Google Alerts, from Twitter lists to literal Manila folders, this episode is packed with practical tips you can actually use—whether you’re team digital or team analog.Warning: You might leave this episode with a serious case of tool envy and a sudden urge to organize your entire news consumption system.Episode Highlights* The Great Tech Divide - Meseidy drops knowledge about AI tools and Twitter features while Rachel discovers she’s been living in the digital stone age* AI for News Junkies - Learn how to use Grok, Claude, and other AI tools for research without falling into the hallucination trap* Verification Standards - Both hosts reveal their personal rules for confirming breaking news before hitting publish (spoiler: it’s not what mainstream media does)* The Tool Arsenal - From Ground News to Google Alerts to searchable Twitter bookmarks, get the full breakdown of free and paid tools that actually work* Analog vs Digital Showdown - Rachel’s paper lists and printed articles go head-to-head with Meseidy’s databases and digital workflowsHey Friend!If you’re a free subscriber and enjoyed this preview, why not take the next step?Becoming a paid supporter helps keep independent journalism alive and ensures we can keep bringing you real talk, real news, and real accountability—without the media spin.As a paid subscriber, you’ll get:* 🔥 Exclusive Content – Access to premium posts, deep-dive analysis, and subscriber-only podcasts.* 🎙 Unfiltered Episodes – Bonus conversations that go beyond the headlines.* 💬 Community Engagement – Join discussions, comment on posts, and be part of the conversation shaping our coverage.* 🚀 Support the Mission – Help us grow and continue challenging the narratives the mainstream media wants you to believe.If you love what we do, upgrading to a paid subscription is the best way to keep independent media thriving while getting more of the content you already enjoy.Thank you for being here and supporting our mission!Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates05:37 News Sourcing Methods: A Contrast of Approaches10:32 Utilizing Technology for News Gathering16:32 The Role of AI in News Reporting22:08 Evaluating News Sources and Bias25:27 Navigating Research Tools27:37 Utilizing AI for Data Analysis30:52 The Role of AI in Historical Research34:48 Building a Personal Database for Research38:41 Setting Up Google Alerts for News Tracking42:59 Journalistic Ethics and Verification47:55 The Changing Landscape of News Reporting55:21 Archiving and Note-Taking Strategies58:40 Utilizing Technology for Information Management01:01:25 Podcasting and Learning Styles01:07:23 Balancing Technology and Traditional Methods01:12:20 Personal Preferences in Focus and Learning01:18:20 Embracing Differences in Perspectives

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comWe’re breaking down the “anti-ICE” bullets, the sniper setup, and why Gavin Newsom’s timing with his anti-ICE rhetoric is chef’s kiss perfectly awful. Plus, Rachel and I are DONE with the gaslighting about left-wing violence – especially now that even The Atlantic admits what we’ve been saying all along.And don’t even get us started on Jimmy Kimmel’s pathetic non-apology while Google literally admits they censored Americans at Biden’s behest. Meanwhile, JD Vance is out here telling people they can “go straight to hell” and we’re absolutely here for it. Oh, and Trump’s new presidential photo display? Controversial doesn’t even begin to cover it.Your new favorite podcast just delivered another episode of pure, unfiltered truth. You’re welcome.Episode Highlights* Dallas ICE Sniper Attack Breakdown - Joshua Jean fired “anti-ICE” inscribed bullets from an apartment rooftop, proving this wasn’t random violence but targeted political terrorism.* The Atlantic Finally Admits Left-Wing Violence Surge - For the first time in 30+ years, a major left-leaning publication acknowledges that far-left attacks now outnumber far-right ones.* Google Confesses to Biden Administration Censorship - Internal attorneys admit the company caved to direct pressure from Biden himself, removing over 1 million COVID videos and deplatforming major conservative voices.* JD Vance’s “Go Straight to Hell” Moment - The Vice President delivered a fiery response to critics questioning his facts about the ICE shooting, and we’re absolutely living for this energy.* Trump’s Gilded Presidential Photo Trolling - The new White House breezeway display features an auto-pen signing Biden’s signature, and the media meltdown is exactly what you’d expect.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:* 4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack* 6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone else* Next Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works Better* For Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.* For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.* For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.Ready to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:* Hours of early access before everyone else* Dedicated ad-free podcast feed on Substack* Full video episodes right in your feed* Monthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)* Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere else* Community access with people who actually think for themselvesThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Listen For Free Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes04:25 Discussion on ICE Field Office Shooting09:53 Analysis of Media Reporting and Misinformation15:36 Context of Violence Against ICE Agents20:51 Political Rhetoric and Its Consequences28:04 The Complexity of Violence and Martyrdom28:57 The Impact of Graphic Violence in Media31:29 Rising Political Violence: A Shift to the Left33:47 The Atlantic’s Surprising Admission on Political Violence36:31 Antifa: Designation and Its Implications40:56 JD Vance’s Strong Response to Violence47:58 Jimmy Kimmel’s Non-Apology and Media Hypocrisy52:55 The Humor in Politics53:50 Critique of Media and Political Figures54:54 Censorship and Free Speech Concerns58:00 Government Pressure on Social Media59:51 The Impact of Censorship on Individuals01:01:36 Comparing Political Reactions to Censorship01:03:43 The Role of Media in Political Narratives01:05:59 The Shift in Political Messaging01:07:03 The Controversy Surrounding Kamala Harris01:09:46 Trump’s Political Maneuvering01:11:41 The Symbolism of Presidential Imagery01:14:06 A Lighthearted Moment in Politics01:16:44 Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comStarting off with Trump making Macron walk to the UN (and yes, world leaders apparently have each other on speed dial), to the Jimmy Kimmel controversy that's costing Disney half of its affiliates, we're breaking down what's really happening.But the real meat of this episode? Our deep dive into Charlie Kirk's memorial service that had 200,000 people trying to attend, world leaders sharing the gospel, and the left absolutely losing their minds over what they're calling "Christian nationalism." Spoiler alert: they have no idea what they're talking about, and we're here to set the record straight. Additionally, we'll explain why Erica Kirk's speech about forgiveness went viral and why that terrifies progressives more than anything else.Episode Highlights* Marco Rubio Turned Preacher - The Secretary of State delivered one of the clearest gospel presentations at Charlie Kirk's memorial, leaving everyone wondering if he missed his calling as an evangelist.* Stephen Miller's "Controversial" Speech - The left is calling it Nazi propaganda, but we break down why his message about Western civilization and builders vs. destroyers hit exactly the right note.* Trump's Honest Moment About Enemies - The President admitted he doesn't like his political opponents and maybe Erica Kirk could convince him otherwise, sending the media into another meltdown over basic human honesty.* Erica Kirk's Powerful Forgiveness - Charlie's widow forgave her husband's assassin in front of 64,000 people, and progressives are so uncomfortable with real Christianity they're calling it "performance art."* The Great Christian Nationalism Panic - We expose why the left is terrified of Christians being politically active and why their "theocracy" fears reveal how disconnected they are from actual faith communities.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:* 4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack* 6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone else* Next Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works Better* For Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.* For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.* For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.Ready to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:* Hours of early access before everyone else* Dedicated ad-free podcast feed on Substack* Full video episodes right in your feed* Monthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)* Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere else* Community access with people who actually think for themselvesThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Listen For Free Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties00:57 Work-Life Balance and Productivity04:02 Home Renovations and Personal Projects06:43 Current Events and Political Commentary09:51 Health Concerns and Medication Discussions14:34 Media and Entertainment Industry Updates18:55 Media Representation and Predictability19:44 Violence and Censorship in Media21:43 Assassination Attempts and Political Violence23:24 Memorials and Public Gatherings25:32 Highlights from the Memorial Service27:17 Political Speeches and Gospel Messages31:58 The Balance of Faith and Politics36:18 Stephen Miller's Controversial Speech44:24 Trump's Presence and Memorial Etiquette45:13 Analyzing Trump's Speech and Human Moments47:59 The Role of Humor in Serious Contexts50:21 Public Reactions to Erica Kirk's Speech53:57 Understanding Christian Nationalism and Media Narratives56:45 The Disconnect Between Media and Reality59:54 The Importance of Faith in Politics01:04:49 The Revival of Christianity in America01:07:30 Cultural Perspectives on Christianity01:13:42 The Need for Representation in Society

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comThis week has been absolutely WILD, and we're breaking down all the chaos for you. Jimmy Kimmel's show got the boot from major networks after his tone-deaf comments about Charlie Kirk's assassination, and honestly? It's about time there were consequences. We're diving deep into the text messages between the alleged assassin and his roommate (because the…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comOn today's episode, Meseidy and Rachel dive headfirst into the chaos surrounding Charlie Kirk's assassination, tackling the conspiracy theories, wild speculation, and downright irresponsible content that's been flooding social media. From questioning the "official narrative" to dissecting Candace Owens' inflammatory accusations against Israel, the hosts aren't holding back. They're serving up some much-needed critical thinking in a world where everyone wants answers right now and influencers are monetizing tragedy faster than you can say "clickbait thumbnail." Warning: This episode contains strong opinions, frustrated sighs, and a plea for people to stop outsourcing truth to social media personalities. Also, it's usually way more fun than this, we promise.Episode Highlights* Conspiracy Theories vs. Critical Thinking - Mercedes and Rachel break down why immediate assassination conspiracy theories are dangerous and explain why law enforcement can't dump all evidence publicly without compromising prosecution.* The Candace Owens Controversy - A detailed analysis of Candace Owens' inflammatory episode featuring accusations against Israel, including why the hosts believe she's monetizing Charlie Kirk's death with eight mid-roll ads and donation requests.* Discord Evidence and Potential Co-conspirators - Discussion of the digital forensic evidence showing Tyler Robinson may have had accomplices who knew about the assassination beforehand through group chats.* Bill Ackman "Intervention" Debunked - The hosts examine and refute claims about a supposed dinner where Bill Ackman allegedly threatened Charlie Kirk over his Israel stance, including official responses from Turning Point USA staff.* Outsourcing Truth to Influencers - A passionate plea for Christians and conservatives to stop blindly trusting social media personalities and to seek discernment through faith rather than confirmation bias loops.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:* 4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack* 6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone else* Next Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works Better* For Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.* For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.* For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.Ready to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:* Hours of early access before everyone else* Dedicated ad-free podcast feed on Substack* Full video episodes right in your feed* Monthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)* Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere else* Community access with people who actually think for themselvesThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Listen For Free @ 6pm ESTGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context Setting03:00 Q&A Session on Charlie Kirk's Assassination06:08 Official Narrative and Conspiracy Theories09:10 Critical Thinking on Government Involvement11:59 Media's Role in Information Dissemination14:52 Investigation Insights and Evidence18:02 Societal Implications of Violence21:06 Discussion on Political Ideologies24:26 The Role of Online Communities26:35 Legal Implications of Foreknowledge29:46 Conclusion and Future Considerations43:04 Conspiracy Theories and Influence46:31 The Impact of Social Media on Public Discourse50:46 Navigating Grief and Public Reactions55:44 Questioning Allegations and Media Narratives01:01:38 The Role of Trust in Information Consumption01:07:41 Finding Stability in Uncertainty01:10:29 The Dangers of Speculation and Conspiracy01:18:49 The Responsibility of Influencers

In this raw and emotional episode, Meseidy and Rachel process the shocking assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Recording just hours after the tragic events unfolded, the hosts grapple with what this means for America, political discourse, and the rising tide of violence targeting those who dare to speak truth on college campuses. From their initial reactions to the media's coverage, from Trump's Oval Office address to the ongoing manhunt - this is an unfiltered conversation about a moment that changed everything. Warning: This episode contains discussion of graphic content and addresses the harsh realities of political violence in America.Episode Highlights* Charlie Kirk's Final Moments - The hosts break down the timeline of events at Utah Valley University and why this assassination represents an attack on the most fundamental American principles.* Media Response Analysis - A scathing review of how MSNBC, CNN, and other outlets covered the breaking news, including the shocking on-air reactions that got people fired.* Trump's Oval Office Address - Why the president's direct response calling out left-wing rhetoric was exactly what the moment demanded, despite criticism.* The Social Media Evidence - From witches' hexes on Etsy to celebration posts getting hundreds of thousands of likes, the disturbing online reaction reveals this isn't "fringe" anymore.* What Comes Next - Drawing parallels to the violence of the 1960s and 70s, the hosts wrestle with whether America is heading toward something even worse this time.Listen for FreeLove what you’re hearing and want even more? Join us as a paid supporter on Substack! As a subscriber, you’ll unlock ad-free podcast episodes, full access to our archives, and exclusive subscriber-only perks like bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, and our in-the-moment reaction videos. Plus, you’ll be directly supporting our mission to cut through the media spin and deliver sharp, honest analysis every week.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Podcast NewsAnd exciting news: we've officially launched our YouTube channel as we gear up for video content! We're already over halfway to our goal with over 889 subscribers, but we need to hit 1,000 to unlock monetization. Plus, we need 4,000 total views - so if you have a few minutes, check out the segment videos we've been posting. Every view and subscribe helps us build this thing together!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Processing Tragedy: The Impact of Political Violence15:37 The Role of Media and Political Rhetoric31:07 A New Era: Reflections on Change and Fear33:50 Navigating the Current News Cycle34:18 Reflections on Historical Turmoil36:17 Comparing Past and Present Turmoil39:31 The Role of Technology in Modern Discourse41:30 The Impact of Media on Public Perception44:07 Reactions to Political Violence47:40 The Complexity of Political Assassination49:28 Updates on the Charlie Kirk Incident01:01:56 The Broader Implications of Political ViolenceConnectMeseidy - Instagram | X | Email - meseidy@itsmeseidy.comRachel - Instagram | X | Email - herearetheheadlines@gmail.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riveraandreeves.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comOh boy, do we have a packed episode for you today! Rachel is fired up about Trump's late-night meme spree (complete with AI-generated Rosie O'Donnell content that has the White House co-signing), while Meseidy breaks down the US literally blowing up a Venezuelan drug boat and why some Democrats are apparently siding with traffickers. We dive deep into NYC's mayoral race where a literal communist is leading the polls, RFK Jr. going full fire mode in his Senate hearing, and the potential $200 million shakeup that could put Barry Weiss in charge of CBS News.But the real meat of this episode? We're breaking down that Epstein victims press conference from yesterday that everyone's talking about but no one's actually analyzing. After watching the whole thing and doing our homework, we've got some serious questions about the narrative everyone's been running with for years. Spoiler alert: this might not be the pedophile ring story you think it is, and we're not afraid to ask the uncomfortable questions that apparently got other journalists kicked out of the press conference.Plus, Putin and Xi got caught on a hot mic talking about achieving immortality through organ transplants because apparently dictators are just weird sixth-graders with nuclear weapons.🚨 MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENTListen, we're shaking things up because you deserve better. Starting RIGHT NOW, our paying Substack supporters are getting the royal treatment: full audio podcast on your exclusive dedicated paid subscriber feed AND the video exclusively on Substack delivered early (we're shooting for 4 PM, sometimes earlier), completely ad-free. Think of it as our "unfiltered" episodes but for every episode.The rest of the world gets the free audio with ads by 6 PM for the drive home, and YouTube gets the full video the next day. But why wait when you could be first in line for the unvarnished truth?Here's the deal: We're offering 30% off annual subscriptions because we know you're tired of the same recycled takes everywhere else. You're here because you want the real analysis, the uncomfortable questions, and the stories mainstream media won't touch. So why not get it first, with your own dedicated feed, ad-free video access, and entry to our community of people who actually think for themselves?Hit that link below and join the early access crew. Because honestly, after what we breakdown in today's Epstein analysis, you're going to want to be first to hear what we dig up next.Episode Highlights* Trump's Meme Meltdown - Rachel absolutely loses it over the White House resharing Trump's AI-enhanced Rosie O'Donnell content while actual presidential business waits* US Goes Boom on Drug Boat - Mercedes breaks down the Venezuelan vessel strike that killed 11 people and why Democrat talking heads are more upset about due process than fentanyl trafficking* Communist Runs NYC - The wild NYC mayoral race where Mondani leads the polls and Trump might be playing chess to stop a literal communist takeover* Epstein Press Conference Truth Bomb - We actually watched the whole thing and have serious questions about whether this "pedophile ring" narrative holds up when most alleged victims were adults* Barry Weiss Gets $200M Offer - The Free Press potentially handing CBS the keys while we question if legacy media can actually be saved or if this kills independent journalismChapters00:00 Trump's Social Media Rants03:29 The Impact of Trump's Online Behavior09:29 US Military Action Against Venezuelan Cartels16:30 Political Reactions to Military Actions21:26 New York Mayoral Race Dynamics21:53 RFK Jr. vs. Senate: A Fiery Confrontation24:19 The Rise of Independent Media: Barry Weiss and The Free Press27:56 CBS News and The Free Press: A Potential Acquisition?34:57 Epstein Victims Speak: A Press Conference Analysis38:45 The Epstein Transparency Act: Challenges and Implications52:11 Clarifying the Epstein Narrative: Victims and Allegations56:25 The Complexity of Sex Trafficking Allegations59:42 Political Theater and Press Conference Dynamics01:05:21 Credibility and Victimhood in the Epstein Case01:10:21 The Role of Political Messaging in Public Perception01:14:38 Hot Mic Moments and Global Leadership Dynamics🎧 Your Free Episode is Now Available!Rivera and Reeves Episode is LIVE - grab it on your favorite podcast app or catch the video on YouTube!We just dropped our latest episode breaking down Trump's meme disaster, the US blowing up that Venezuelan drug boat, and most importantly - our deep dive analysis of yesterday's Epstein victims press conference that's got everyone talking (but no one actually analyzing).Listen for Free!Missed the Early Access? Our paying subscribers got this episode at 4 PM, completely ad-free, with exclusive video on Substack. If you're tired of waiting for the good stuff and want to be first in line for our unfiltered takes, we've got a 30% off annual subscription deal waiting for you.What You Get as a Paid Subscriber:* Episodes hours early (goal: 4 PM, sometimes earlier)* Dedicated ad-free podcast feed* Exclusive video access on Substack* Unfiltered, barely-edited content* Community access with people who actually thinkEnjoy the free episode, and thanks for being part of the Rivera and Reeves community. Whether you're paying or not, we're still going to keep asking the uncomfortable questions that apparently get journalists kicked out of press conferences.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comIs Trump dead? The Democrats sure hope so!While most Americans were enjoying their Labor Day weekend, the left completely lost their minds speculating that President Trump had secretly died because he hadn't tweeted in... checks notes... two whole days. From astrology TikTokers claiming their "spirit guides" told them Trump was dying, to CNN and Politico actually covering these conspiracy theories, we dive deep into the unhinged world of progressive wishful thinking.Plus, we break down the Federal Appeals Court blow to Trump's tariffs, RFK Jr.'s CDC shake-up that has vaccine shills panicking, and our foreign correspondent Amanda drops a bombshell theory about potential strikes on Russia that'll have you counting down to Trump's 2 PM Oval Office announcement.Spoiler alert: Trump's very much alive, and the Democrats' "hope core" delusions are about to get crushed harder than their 2024 election dreams.Connect with Amanda!* TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amandatalksgeopolitics* X: https://x.com/amandatalks__* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandatalksgeopolitics* Youtube: https://youtube.com/@amandatalksgeopoliticsEpisode Highlights* Federal Court Deals Trump Tariff Blow - Appeals court rules Trump's global tariffs "highly illegal" but gives administration until October 14th to appeal to Supreme Court.* RFK Jr.'s CDC Purge Triggers Vaccine Shills - Health Secretary fires CDC director and replaces COVID skeptics with actual doctors, sending Senator Bill Cassidy into meltdown mode.* Chicago's Bloody Labor Day Sparks ICE Showdown - 59 people shot, 9 killed over weekend as Brandon Johnson threatens to fight federal crime intervention with violent rhetoric.* TikTok Astrologers Predict Trump's Death - The "4AM Club" and other progressive conspiracy theorists use spirit guides and star charts to manifest the president's demise in bizarre social media campaign.* Potential Russia Strikes on 50-Day Deadline - Foreign policy expert Amanda Peterson speculates Trump may authorize targeted strikes as Ukraine war deadline expires during today's Oval Office announcement.Listen for FreeLove what you’re hearing and want even more? Join us as a paid supporter on Substack! As a subscriber, you’ll unlock ad-free podcast episodes, full access to our archives, and exclusive subscriber-only perks like bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, and our in-the-moment reaction videos. Plus, you’ll be directly supporting our mission to cut through the media spin and deliver sharp, honest analysis every week.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Podcast NewsAnd exciting news: we've officially launched our YouTube channel as we gear up for video content! We're already over halfway to our goal with over 630 subscribers, but we need to hit 1,000 to unlock monetization. Plus, we need 4,000 total views - so if you have a few minutes, check out the segment videos we've been posting. Every view and subscribe helps us build this thing together!Let’s get into the news!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview02:40 Headlines and Current Events05:37 Trump's Tariffs and Legal Challenges08:38 CDC Changes and Vaccine Skepticism11:34 Epstein Files and Political Implications14:35 Crime in Chicago and Political Responses17:46 Trump's Upcoming Remarks and Speculations26:47 The Speculation Surrounding Trump's Health27:42 Trump's Upcoming Announcement and Military Speculations29:33 The Implications of U.S. Military Actions32:03 The Role of Ukraine in Global Politics34:23 India's Position in the Russia-China Dynamic40:18 Mainstream Media's Reaction to Trump's Health Speculations46:22 The Rise of Conspiracy Theories in Political Discourse51:21 Speculations on Trump's Health and Public Perception53:30 Political Tensions and January 6th Reflections54:49 Concerns Over Political Violence and Extremism56:43 Military Operations and International Relations59:08 Venezuela and U.S. Foreign Policy01:01:16 Social Media and Political Discourse01:03:28 Cultural Commentary on TikTok and Online Trends01:06:56 The Impact of Celebrity Culture on Politics01:10:36 Reflections on Political Assassination and Public SentimentConnectMeseidy - Instagram | X | Email - meseidy@itsmeseidy.comRachel - Instagram | X | Email - herearetheheadlines@gmail.com

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comGet ready for another chaotic and completely unfiltered ride! Rachel's bringing the history heat with the shocking story of why John Adams—yes, THE John Adams—is the only founding father getting absolutely zero love in Washington DC. No monument, no statue, not even a measly plaque. Meanwhile, Meseidy's serving up the tea on Taylor Lorenz's bombshell exposé about how progressive influencers are secretly getting paid up to $8,000 a month by dark money groups (and why they're all eating each other alive over it). Plus: rotisserie chicken drama, chicken pot pie reviews, and why our founding fathers could intellectually demolish today's politicians. Fair warning—there might be some dog chaos because Mercedes is home alone and her husband's about to unleash the older pups. It's exactly what it says on the tin: completely unfiltered.Episode Highlights* John Adams Gets Zero Respect: The only founding father without any monument, statue, or memorial in Washington DC—despite being the first president to live in the White House and the only one who never owned slaves.* The $8,000 Monthly Secret: Taylor Lorenz exposed how progressive influencers are getting paid thousands monthly by dark money groups through "Chorus" while being contractually forbidden from disclosing the arrangement.* Progressive Civil War: The left is currently eating itself alive over the dark money revelations, with creators attacking Taylor Lorenz and fighting over whether taking corporate cash makes you a sellout.* Tara McGowan's Shadow Network: The fascinating web connecting failed Iowa caucus apps, fake local news sites, and the woman now dating Senator Chris Murphy who's been orchestrating Democrat digital strategy since 2017.* Adams and Jefferson's Epic Friendship: The incredible story of how these founding fathers went from besties to bitter enemies to friends again—and died on the same day, July 4th, 1826, exactly 50 years after independence.Hey Friend!If you’re a free subscriber and enjoyed this preview, why not take the next step?Becoming a paid supporter helps keep independent journalism alive and ensures we can keep bringing you real talk, real news, and real accountability—without the media spin.As a paid subscriber, you’ll get:* 🔥 Exclusive Content – Access to premium posts, deep-dive analysis, and subscriber-only podcasts.* 🎙 Unfiltered Episodes – Bonus conversations that go beyond the headlines.* 💬 Community Engagement – Join discussions, comment on posts, and be part of the conversation shaping our coverage.* 🚀 Support the Mission – Help us grow and continue challenging the narratives the mainstream media wants you to believe.If you love what we do, upgrading to a paid subscription is the best way to keep independent media thriving while getting more of the content you already enjoy.Thank you for being here and supporting our mission!HomeworkAdams Memorial CommissionA Dark Money Group Is Secretly Funding High-Profile Democratic InfluencersChapters00:00 Introduction to Unfiltered Conversations03:36 Exploring John Adams: The Forgotten Founding Father06:48 The Legacy of John Adams and His Impact09:42 The Absence of Monuments: A Historical Perspective12:44 The Alien and Sedition Acts: Controversies in Adams' Presidency15:37 Current Efforts for a John Adams Memorial18:36 The Importance of Civic Education and Historical Memory30:32 The Vice Presidency: A Historical Perspective36:11 The Business Plot: A Coup Against FDR39:38 Dark Money and Political Influencers50:05 Tara McGowan and the Evolution of Political Messaging53:27 The Influence of Dark Money in Media56:14 Progressive Messaging and the Democrat Divide01:00:51 The Battle of Influencers: Progressives vs. Conservatives01:07:24 Political Speech and the Ethics of Funding01:09:30 The Organic Growth of Conservative Media01:12:50 The Infighting Within the Democrat Party

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comMeseidy and Rachel dive deep into the tragic Minneapolis school shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church that left 2 children dead and 17 injured. While the mainstream media tiptoes around the facts, we're giving you ALL the details they don't want you to know about. From the shooter's transgender identity and manifesto filled with trans regret, to the buried 2018 mental health welfare check that nobody's reporting on - we've got the receipts.Plus, we're calling out the disgusting attacks on Christians and people of faith by politicians like Minneapolis Mayor Frey and Jen Psaki, who are more concerned with shaming "thoughts and prayers" than addressing the real issues. You'll also hear about Minnesota's strict gun laws that didn't prevent this tragedy, and how Tim Walz denied funding requests to harden religious schools just two years ago.This episode will red-pill you on just how far the media will go to protect their narrative. Heaven forbid you notice the patterns.some exciting news - we've officially launched our YouTube channel as we gear up for video content. Here's where we need your help as a community: we're over 500 subscribers strong (halfway to the 1,000 we need for monetization!) but we also need to hit 4,000 watch hours. If you've got a few minutes today, hop over and check out some of our segment videos. Every view gets us closer to our goal, and honestly, it feels like we're building something pretty special together. Episode Highlights* The Shooter's Trans Identity & Regret - New York Post obtained translated journals revealing the 23-year-old shooter expressed "trans regret," writing "I'm tired of being trans, I wish I never brainwashed myself."* Buried 2018 Mental Health Check - Scripps News FOIA revealed police conducted a mental health welfare check on the shooter in 2018 when he was just 15 - something no other outlet is reporting.* Politicians Attack Christians for Praying - Minneapolis Mayor Frey and Jen Psaki launched disgusting attacks on "thoughts and prayers," essentially telling grieving Catholic families to shut up about their faith.* Minnesota's Gun Laws Didn't Work - Despite having background checks, red flag laws, and strict storage requirements, none of Minnesota's Democrat-backed policies prevented this tragedy.* Walz Denied School Security Funding - Two years ago, religious schools begged Tim Walz for security funding after Nashville, but were denied while Minnesota became a "trans refuge state."Listen For FreeLove what you’re hearing and want even more? Join us as a paid supporter on Substack! As a subscriber, you’ll unlock ad-free podcast episodes, full access to our archives, and exclusive subscriber-only perks like bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, and our in-the-moment reaction videos. Plus, you’ll be directly supporting our mission to cut through the media spin and deliver sharp, honest analysis every week.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates00:46 Tragedy at Annunciation Catholic Church04:22 Details of the Shooter and the Attack08:08 Manifesto and Mental Health Insights12:06 Media Coverage and Public Reaction16:02 Mental Health and Legal Implications22:25 Gun Control Debate in Minnesota25:26 Media Coverage and Public Reaction27:07 Faith and Public Discourse29:26 Political Responses to Tragedy32:13 Mental Health and Violence35:14 Trans Identity and Mental Health38:12 The Role of Media in Shaping Narratives42:00 Addressing School Safety and Gun Legislation47:34 Media Narratives and Political Bias50:07 Investigating Domestic Terrorism and Hate Crimes52:10 Policy Implications of School Safety55:21 Funding and Security in Schools57:36 Political Responses to Violence01:01:52 Media Responsibility and Public Perception01:05:44 Understanding Motives Behind Violence01:07:16 Disconnect in Political Rhetoric01:10:24 Reflections on Tragedy and Community Support01:11:46 afternoon Edition (YouTube Thumbnail) (1).mp4ConnectMeseidy - Instagram | X | Email - meseidy@itsmeseidy.comRachel - Instagram | X | Email - herearetheheadlines@gmail.com

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comHey friends! We're back with another episode where we break down everything the media got wrong about Trump's historic weekend of diplomacy. From the Alaska summit with Putin (complete with stealth bomber flyovers that had Vlad's eyes bugging out) to the unprecedented White House meeting with EU leaders and Zelensky, we're covering it all. Plus, Amanda Peterson joins us to dive deep into foreign policy, the sketchy Nvidia-China chip deal, and why nobody's talking about the brewing conflict in the Philippines. We'll also roast Chuck Todd's terrible takes, celebrate Zelensky finally wearing a suit, and update you on the Texas Democrats' latest theatrical performance. Buckle up – it's been a wild week and the media is still trash!Episode Highlights* Stealth Bomber Flex at Putin Meeting - Trump welcomed Putin to Alaska with B2 bombers flying overhead, sending a clear message that this wasn't exactly rolling out the red carpet.* Historic White House EU Summit - The largest gathering of heads of state in the Oval Office since 2003, proving this wasn't just Zelensky bringing his "wingmen" to protect him from big bad Trump.* The Nvidia-China Revenue Sharing Deal - A deep dive into why the US government is now taking 15% of Nvidia's China chip sales and what this means for the AI race.* Philippines-China Brewing Conflict - Amanda breaks down the dangerous "gray zone" tactics in the South China Sea that could spark the next major conflict before Taiwan.* Subway Sandwich Assault in DC - Because apparently throwing a sandwich at a federal officer and running away like a coward is now considered resistance.Listen for FreeLove what you’re hearing and want even more? Join us as a paid supporter on Substack! As a subscriber, you’ll unlock ad-free podcast episodes, full access to our archives, and exclusive subscriber-only perks like bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, and our in-the-moment reaction videos. Plus, you’ll be directly supporting our mission to cut through the media spin and deliver sharp, honest analysis every week.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Technical Issues02:20 Analyzing the Alaska Summit with Putin07:06 Media Coverage and Public Perception11:53 Body Language and Diplomatic Dynamics16:49 Critiques of Trump's Approach20:41 The EU Summit and Zelensky's Position30:05 Zelensky's Suit and Media Perception31:50 Press Pool Dynamics and Zelensky's Confidence35:04 Doocy's Loaded Questions and Media Reactions36:56 Trump's Communication with Putin During Meetings38:30 Trump's Stance on Mail-in Voting and Election Integrity40:01 Historic Meeting of EU Leaders and Negotiation Dynamics43:03 Hot Mic Moments and Media Narratives47:15 Negotiating Peace: The Role of Trump and Putin50:49 Texas Democrats and Political Theater ConnectMeseidy - Instagram | X | Email - meseidy@itsmeseidy.comRachel - Instagram | X | Email - herearetheheadlines@gmail.com

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comMeseidy and Rachel are back with foreign policy queen Amanda Peterson to break down the biggest geopolitical moment of Trump's second term - his high-stakes meeting with Putin in Alaska tomorrow. We're diving deep into what this means, why Alaska (hello, former Russian territory!), and whether Zelensky calling for more sanctions is the dumbest political move of 2025.But wait, there's more! We're unpacking Trump's genius tariff strategy that's apparently just now being discovered by the Washington Post (eye roll), the weird Nvidia-China chip deal that has us all feeling icky about government-corporate partnerships, and why the Philippines might be where World War III actually starts (spoiler: it's not Taiwan).Plus, Amanda breaks down why Biden's Ukraine strategy was basically "here's how to finance your war" and we react to the most pathetic federal crime of the year - the Great Subway Sandwich Assault of DC. Because nothing says "resistance" like chucking a mediocre sandwich at a federal officer and running away like a toddler.Fair warning: Rachel mysteriously disappears halfway through due to technical difficulties, but don't worry - she's there in spirit and we pretend everything is normal because that's how we roll.Connect with Amanda* TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amandatalksgeopolitics* X: https://x.com/amandatalks__* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandatalksgeopolitics* Youtube: https://youtube.com/@amandatalksgeopoliticsEpisode Highlights* Trump-Putin Power Play in Alaska - Why meeting on former Russian territory that's now US soil is the ultimate diplomatic flex and what it signals about America's new position of strength.* The Washington Post's "Shocking" Discovery - Media finally realizes Trump's tariff deals involve more than trade deficits, because apparently they've been asleep for four years while his advisors explained this repeatedly.* Nvidia's Sketchy Government Partnership - The 15% revenue sharing deal with the feds over China chip sales that has everyone feeling uncomfortable about corporate-government coziness.* Biden's Ukraine Strategy Exposed - How the previous administration basically gave Putin a playbook for financing his war while providing just enough aid to keep the conflict going indefinitely.* The Subway Sandwich Federal Crime - DC resistance reaches peak patheticness as DOJ employee throws sandwich at federal officer, gets felony charges, and loses his job over the lamest assault ever recorded.Listen for FreeLove what you’re hearing and want even more? Join us as a paid supporter on Substack! As a subscriber, you’ll unlock ad-free podcast episodes, full access to our archives, and exclusive subscriber-only perks like bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, and our in-the-moment reaction videos. Plus, you’ll be directly supporting our mission to cut through the media spin and deliver sharp, honest analysis every week.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context Setting01:47 Trump and Putin's Meeting in Alaska02:26 Expectations and Speculations on the Meeting06:18 Potential Outcomes of the Meeting09:02 The Role of Zelensky and International Dynamics11:43 Comparing Foreign Policy Approaches16:48 Trade Deals and Tariffs as Foreign Policy Tools24:08 Nvidia and Technology Export Controls34:41 The Complexities of Chip Exports36:43 Navigating the AI and Tech Landscape40:00 Government and Corporate Relationships45:39 Geopolitical Tensions in the Philippines49:47 The Situation in Gaza and Its ImplicationsConnectMeseidy - Instagram | X | Email - meseidy@itsmeseidy.comRachel - Instagram | X | Email - herearetheheadlines@gmail.com

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comThis week, we're diving headfirst into Trump's very gold Oval Office makeover (because apparently taste is subjective, right?), his federal takeover of DC's crime-ridden streets, and the absolutely WILD legal troubles brewing for Letitia James and Adam Schiff.Spoiler alert: The people who spent years trying to prosecute Trump might be heading to prison themselves for mortgage fraud and leaking classified intel. You literally cannot make this stuff up! Plus, we've got JD Vance spilling tea about Marco Rubio's ice cream addiction because why not?Grab your coffee and settle in – this one's a doozy that perfectly captures why we say the media is trash and we have zero tolerance for it. You're gonna want to hit that follow button because THIS is your new favorite podcast.Episode Highlights* Trump's Oval Office Craft Project - The hosts can't get over Trump's aggressive gold makeover of the White House, comparing it to slapping "a new vibe on top of an existing vibe."* DC Federal Takeover Reality Check - Breaking down Trump's use of Section 740 of the DC Home Rule Act and why Democrats screaming "martial law" clearly don't understand basic constitutional powers.* Letitia James' Mortgage Fraud Mess - The NY AG who prosecuted Trump is now facing her own fraud investigation for allegedly claiming her Virginia property as primary residence for better loan terms.* Adam Schiff's Classified Leak Scandal - Exclusive whistleblower documents reveal Schiff allegedly approved leaking classified info to undermine Trump's presidency, with staffers using spouses' phones to cover their tracks.* JD Vance Exposes Rubio's Ice Cream Habit - A lighter moment featuring the VP revealing Marco Rubio's daily ice cream consumption and joking about his "four jobs" as Secretary of State.Listen for FreeLove what you’re hearing and want even more? Join us as a paid supporter on Substack! As a subscriber, you’ll unlock ad-free podcast episodes, full access to our archives, and exclusive subscriber-only perks like bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, and our in-the-moment reaction videos. Plus, you’ll be directly supporting our mission to cut through the media spin and deliver sharp, honest analysis every week.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 The Aesthetic of the Oval Office10:19 Beautification and Safety in Washington, DC13:22 Federalizing the DC Police Department16:17 Public Reaction to Trump's Actions18:47 Crime Statistics and Public Perception21:42 Media Coverage and Political Narratives24:32 Community Safety Initiatives27:32 The Role of Local Governance30:34 Racial Dynamics in Crime Policy33:18 Media Dynamics and Political Coverage36:50 Unveiling Allegations Against Adam Schiff38:40 Letitia James and Mortgage Fraud Investigations42:40 The Legal Battles of Trump and His Opponents44:37 Investigating Letitia James' Campaign Promises48:36 Whistleblower Claims Against Adam Schiff52:06 The Implications of Leaked Information55:34 Future of the Republican Party: Vance and RubioConnectMeseidy - Instagram | X | Email - meseidy@itsmeseidy.comRachel - Instagram | X | Email - herearetheheadlines@gmail.com

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comA lot of news today! From a shooting at Fort Stewart that could have been so much worse to Trump dropping truth bombs about a new census (thank you for your attention to this matter 🙄), we're covering it all in our signature lightning round style.Rachel and I break down the Texas Democrats' dramatic escape to Illinois (again!), discuss Trump's anti-debanking plans, and get into the rumored Trump-Putin-Zelensky meeting that has everyone talking. Plus, we're calling out CNN for their completely fabricated story about a VP meeting, diving into Kamala's upcoming tell-all book, and debating whether Trump's White House ballroom renovation is genius or just too much gold.Warning: Contains discussions of Chick-fil-A cookies, Spencer Pratt obsessions, and Rachel's very strong feelings about styrofoam cups. You've been warned!Episode Highlights:* Fort Stewart Shooting Update - Six soldiers shot but all expected to survive, with details emerging about the shooter's background and potential motives* Trump's Census Announcement - President instructs Commerce Department to conduct new census excluding illegal immigrants, stirring redistricting debates* Texas Democrats on the Run (Again) - 50+ lawmakers flee to Illinois to avoid redistricting vote, facing $500 daily fines and potential FBI involvement* CNN's Fake News Fumble - Network reports false story about VP meeting on Epstein strategy, gets immediately debunked by Vance's office* Kamala's Campaign Tell-All - Former VP announces book about her 107-day campaign with promises to share "what it takes to move forward"Listen for FreeLove what you’re hearing and want even more? Join us as a paid supporter on Substack! As a subscriber, you’ll unlock ad-free podcast episodes, full access to our archives, and exclusive subscriber-only perks like bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, and our in-the-moment reaction videos. Plus, you’ll be directly supporting our mission to cut through the media spin and deliver sharp, honest analysis every week.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 - Introduction & Dogs Going Off01:30 - Fort Stewart Shooting Breakdown08:40 - Trump's Census Truth Bomb09:38 - Texas Democrats on the Lam (Again)21:34 - Anti-Debanking Executive Order25:00 - Lightning Round Transition26:47 - Trump-Putin-Zelensky Meeting Rumors31:42 - CNN's Fake News Fail38:45 - Apple's $100 Billion & Tim Cook's Shaky Hands47:01 - White House Ballroom Drama54:30 - Kamala's 107-Day Campaign Tell-All57:50 - Biden Camp's Dirt on Kamala1:06:34 - Housing Crisis & Mamdani1:11:26 - Wrap-Up & Merch PlugsConnectMeseidy - Instagram | X | Email - meseidy@itsmeseidy.comRachel - Instagram | X | Email - herearetheheadlines@gmail.com

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comBuckle up for another unfiltered dive into the headlines with Rivera and Reeves! This week, Mercedes and Rachel tackle the juiciest stories with their signature blend of sharp analysis, no-nonsense takes, and just the right amount of snark. From Trump’s latest shake-up at the Bureau of Labor Statistics to Texas Democrats fleeing the state in a political stunt, we’re unpacking the chaos and calling out the media’s spin. Plus, we’ve got thoughts on Elizabeth Warren’s eyebrow-raising press conference with NYC’s Zohran Mamdani and a wild historical nod to Braveheart. Grab your coffee and join us as we wade through the noise—because the media’s trash, and we’re here to sort it out!Episode Highlights:* Trump Fires BLS Commissioner Over Jobs Report Drama: We dive into the massive 258,000 job revision and debate whether it’s politics or an outdated system causing the chaos.* DOJ’s Russiagate Grand Jury Probe: The hosts break down the new investigation into the Trump-Russia saga and why legacy media seems desperate to ignore it.* Texas Democrats Flee to Block Redistricting: Mercedes and Rachel unpack the Texas legislators’ dramatic exit to prevent a quorum and its impact on redistricting battles.* Elizabeth Warren Endorses Zohran Mamdani: The hosts react to Warren’s full-throated support for NYC’s controversial candidate and what it means for the Democratic Party.* On This Day in History - William Wallace’s Capture: Rachel shares a grim yet gripping historical tidbit about the Scottish hero’s 1305 capture, with a nod to Braveheart.Listen For FreeLove what you’re hearing and want even more? Join us as a paid supporter on Substack! As a subscriber, you’ll unlock ad-free podcast episodes, full access to our archives, and exclusive subscriber-only perks like bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, and our in-the-moment reaction videos. Plus, you’ll be directly supporting our mission to cut through the media spin and deliver sharp, honest analysis every week.Get 30% off for 1 yearYour subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Opening Joke and Podcast Introduction 00:42 Hosts' Casual Banter and Recording Schedule 01:14 Subscription and Support Information 01:34 Today's Topics Overview 02:02 Trump and the Bureau of Labor Statistics 21:05 DOJ's Grand Jury Probe into Russiagate 23:29 Media's Reaction to the Probe 25:41 Discussion on Media Bias and Journalism 38:49 Public Fatigue with News 41:10 Texas Democrats on the Run 41:51 Texas Legislators Flee to Block Quorum 42:37 Redistricting Controversy Explained 43:05 Historical Context and Political Maneuvering 48:53 Democratic Response and Statements 53:52 Press Conference Blunders 55:49 Elizabeth Warren's Endorsement 59:04 Controversial Policies and Reactions 01:03:47 Random Headlines and Reactions 01:10:40 On This Day in History 01:13:15 Conclusion and Wrap-UpConnectMeseidy - Instagram | X | Email - meseidy@itsmeseidy.comRachel - Instagram | X | Email - herearetheheadlines@gmail.com

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comGet ready for another spicy serving of Rivera and Reeves Unfiltered! This month, we're diving deep into The Atlantic's surprisingly revealing profile of Jasmine Crockett – and honey, it's not the glowing puff piece you'd expect. From her Waldorf Astoria tantrums to her phone wallpaper choices (yes, really), we break down why even her Democratic colleagues are running for the hills.But wait, there's more! We're serving up piping hot takes on the epidemic of performative politics plaguing both parties, complete with Paul Ryan's cringey 2012 workout photos and Cory Booker's latest Spartacus moment on the House floor. Plus, Rachel drops some mafia history knowledge that'll have you googling old Detroit restaurants.Fair warning: We go completely off the rails talking about 80s movie ratings, puppet films, and why politicians need to stop filming themselves at the gym. It's chaotic, it's unfiltered, and frankly, it's exactly what you signed up for.Episode Highlights* Jasmine Crockett's Atlantic Reality Check - The left-leaning publication accidentally exposes why 33 Democratic colleagues won't go on record supporting their own party member.* The Waldorf Astoria Meltdown - Crockett's hotel room whisper session and failed attempt to shut down her own profile when journalists dared to interview people she didn't pre-approve.* Performative Politics Hall of Shame - From Nancy Mace's pajama bus rides to Eric Swalwell's pathetic bench press videos, we're calling out the circus on both sides.* Paul Ryan's Workout Photo Time Machine - Rachel unearths the cringiest political photo shoot of 2012 that somehow still makes us physically uncomfortable in 2025.* Cory Booker's Spartacus Sequel - Breaking down his latest House floor tantrum over police funding bills and why his fellow Democrats are getting tired of his presidential audition performances.Hey Friend!If you’re a free subscriber and enjoyed this preview, why not take the next step?Becoming a paid supporter helps keep independent journalism alive and ensures we can keep bringing you real talk, real news, and real accountability—without the media spin.As a paid subscriber, you’ll get:* 🔥 Exclusive Content – Access to premium posts, deep-dive analysis, and subscriber-only podcasts.* 🎙 Unfiltered Episodes – Bonus conversations that go beyond the headlines.* 💬 Community Engagement – Join discussions, comment on posts, and be part of the conversation shaping our coverage.* 🚀 Support the Mission – Help us grow and continue challenging the narratives the mainstream media wants you to believe.If you love what we do, upgrading to a paid subscription is the best way to keep independent media thriving while getting more of the content you already enjoy.Thank you for being here and supporting our mission!Chapters00:00 Opening & Atlantic Article Introduction03:25 The Atlantic's Jasmine Crockett Profile06:32 Social Media Obsession & Self-Presentation16:30 Democratic Colleagues Stay Silent19:03 Crockett Tries to Shut Down the Profile20:47 Racism & Performative Politics25:50 Origin Story Inconsistencies27:08 Redistricting & Electoral Reality Check29:29 The Performative Politics Epidemic36:56 Cory Booker's Spartacus Moment47:32 Paul Ryan Workout Photo Flashback49:16 Jimmy Hoffa History Segment55:25 "In God We Trust" History56:23 Closing & Dark Crystal Tangent

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comThe Middle East is officially on fire, and we're breaking down the most impressive military operation in modern history. While the No Kings protesters are getting ready to storm the streets, Israel just pulled off Operation Rising Lion — a strike so precise and devastating that it's left Iran scrambling and the entire regional power structure in shambles.Rachel and Meseidy are joined by friend of the podcast and foreign policy commentator Amanda Peterson for an emergency UnFiltered session to decode what the hell just happened when 100 Israeli fighter jets flew through multiple countries' airspace like they owned the place, took out Iran's top military brass, nuclear scientists, and weapons facilities, then flew home for breakfast.We're talking psychological warfare, nuclear deterrence, Trump's 4D chess moves, and why this operation makes the pager incident look like child's play. Plus, we dive into the Golden Dome initiative, whether Tucker Carlson and the isolationists are completely delusional, and why this might actually prevent World War III instead of starting it.If you're tired of hearing "Iran is six months away from a nuclear weapon" for the past decade and want to understand what's really happening — and why your grocery prices might depend on it — this is the episode that explains it all.Connect with Amanda!* TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amandatalksgeopolitics* X: https://x.com/amandatalks__* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandatalksgeopolitics* Youtube: https://youtube.com/@amandatalksgeopoliticsEpisode Highlights* Operation Rising Lion Breakdown - Israel flew 100 fighter jets through multiple countries' airspace and completely dominated Iranian military capabilities without a single pushback* Nuclear Weapons Reality Check - Iran has been at a "six months to breakout" status for years, but they finally have all the IKEA parts — they just haven't assembled the bomb yet* The Pager Incident Connection - How Israel's telecommunications deception that took out Hezbollah's entire command structure was just the warm-up act for this masterpiece* Trump's Negotiation Theater - Why the 60-day deadline and public isolationist posturing was actually genius psychological warfare to lull Iran into complacency* Regional Power Vacuum - With Iran's proxy network decimated and military capabilities crippled, the entire Middle East power structure just got reshuffled overnightSubscriber Perks and DiscountIf you’re a free subscriber and enjoyed this preview, why not take the next step?Becoming a paid supporter helps keep independent journalism alive and ensures we can keep bringing you real talk, real news, and real accountability—without the media spin.As a paid subscriber, you’ll get:* 🔥 Exclusive Content – Access to premium posts, deep-dive analysis, and subscriber-only podcasts.* 🎙 Unfiltered Episodes – Bonus conversations that go beyond the headlines.* 💬 Community Engagement – Join discussions, comment on posts, and be part of the conversation shaping our coverage.* 🚀 Support the Mission – Help us grow and continue challenging the narratives the mainstream media wants you to believe.If you love what we do, upgrading to a paid subscription using the discount link below. Thi is the best way to keep independent media thriving while getting more of the content you already enjoy.Thank you for being here and supporting our mission!Chapters00:00 Introduction: Discussing Trump's Golden Dome Initiative 00:39 Welcome to Unfiltered: Raw and Unpolished Truth 01:41 Special Guest Amanda: Middle East Conflict Insights 03:24 Operation Rising Lion: Israel's Strategic Strikes 04:27 Iran's Proxy Network and Historical Context 06:22 The Pager Incident: Israel's Tactical Precision 08:13 Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and Global Reactions 09:17 The Role of the IAEA and International Concerns 24:08 Psychological Warfare: The Power of Nuclear Threats 32:49 US-Israel Relations and Strategic Decisions 46:28 The Foundation of Israel and Its Security Concerns 46:58 Isolationism vs. Neo-Conservatism 48:40 The Middle East and Iran's Regional Influence 49:30 Potential Regime Change in Iran 52:44 Domestic Implications of Foreign Policy 53:52 Iran's Global Influence and Terrorism 59:28 The Complexity of International Conflicts 01:07:26 Concerns About Domestic Security 01:21:23 Final Thoughts and Wrap-UpConnectMeseidy - Instagram | X | Email - meseidy@itsmeseidy.comRachel - Instagram | X | Email - herearetheheadlines@gmail.com

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit riveraandreeves.substack.comToday, Rachel's power went out (because living on a well is apparently a thing), so we're coming to you a little later than usual with the sound of lawnmowers in the background. But honestly, that's the least chaotic thing happening right now.EXCITING NEWS: We're testing out VIDEO for the first time! While Meseidy looks like hot garbage (her words, not Rachel’s), we're among friends here. This is our first video run, and it's exclusively available for our paying supporters on Substack. If you want to see our beautiful faces while we roast the media, consider upgrading your subscription!In this episode we're diving deep into the LA riots that had everyone's attention over the weekend - and spoiler alert: it wasn't just "peaceful protesters expressing their First Amendment rights." We'll break down how it all started with an assemblyman who decided to play detective, the violent criminals ICE was actually targeting (hint: not the innocent workers the media wants you to believe), and why Karen Bass and Gavin Newsom are out here acting like federal law enforcement is the real problem.Plus, Trump's desk keeps getting bigger (seriously, we need to talk about this), and the Democrats are having their own little civil war while cities burn. It's giving major 2020 vibes, and not in a good way.Buckle up - the media is trash, and we have no tolerance for it.Video version available exclusively for paid Substack subscribers - because we love our supporters and want to share Rachel's good hair day with you!Episode Highlights* ICE Raids Target Violent Criminals, Not Random Workers - The weekend's chaos started over targeted operations against criminals with rap sheets including murder, assault with firearms, and domestic violence - not the "innocent workers" narrative being pushed.* California Assemblyman Spreads Panic and Misinformation - Jose Luis Solache literally followed border patrol agents, assumed the worst, and called for people to descend on the area without knowing ICE had offices there.* Trump Deploys National Guard as Local Officials Fail - After LAPD took hours to respond to federal agents being attacked with cinder blocks and Molotov cocktails, Trump lawfully deployed the National Guard to protect federal buildings.* Karen Bass and Gavin Newsom Blame Everyone But Themselves - Both leaders are threatening federal agents and demanding ICE operations stop while their own cities burn, proving they're more interested in politics than public safety.* Trump's Desk Grows Wings and Gains Presidential Statues - The Resolute Desk now features side tables with massive busts of Abraham Lincoln and Ben Franklin, creating what can only be described as "mega desk" energy.Watch the clips!Listen for FreeLove what you’re hearing and want even more? Join us as a paid supporter on Substack! As a subscriber, you’ll unlock ad-free podcast episodes, full access to our archives, and exclusive subscriber-only perks like bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, and our in-the-moment reaction videos. Plus, you’ll be directly supporting our mission to cut through the media spin and deliver sharp, honest analysis every week.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 - Power Outages and Well Life 02:44 - Weekend Riots Overview and Episode Preview 04:12 - ICE Operations in LA County Begin 08:02 - Meet the Violent Criminals ICE Was Targeting 14:41 - Civil vs Criminal Immigration Violations Explained 19:11 - Assemblyman Jose Luis Solache's Misinformation Campaign 24:28 - Biden Administration's Immigration Enforcement Gap 32:36 - From Peaceful Protest to Violent Riots 37:24 - Trump Deploys California National Guard 41:01 - Media Headlines Blame Trump, Not Rioters 46:31 - Karen Bass Threatens Federal Agents on CNN 52:24 - CBS Poll Shows 54% Support Trump's Immigration Policy 55:03 - Gavin Newsom's "Come at Me Bro" Moment 58:04 - Local News Describes "Peaceful" Car Burning 1:02:54 - ICE Director Todd Lyons Gets Big Mad 1:08:07 - Maxine Waters Denies Violence While Buildings Burn 1:14:45 - Upcoming "No Kings" Protests on June 14th 1:21:31 - DNC Leadership Crisis Leaked Audio 1:25:05 - Trump's Ever-Expanding Presidential Desk 1:29:44 - Episode Wrap-Up and ClosingConnectMeseidy - Instagram | X | Email - meseidy@itsmeseidy.comRachel - Instagram | X | Email - herearetheheadlines@gmail.com