In this episode of Need to Know, Bryce Zabel and Richard Dolan take the pulse of a UFO world that feels ready to blow wide open. The pace of developments is accelerating, and so are the contradictions. As official channels downplay, deny, or deflect, Bryce and Richard reveal a far more complex — and unsettling — reality playing out just beneath the surface. They dive into six critical topics they feel the audience needs to know right now, touching on everything from historic cases to shifting power dynamics behind the scenes. It’s a rapid-fire, insight-packed conversation that pulls no punches — examining the hidden forces at work, the evolving role of the media, and the psychological toll of prolonged secrecy. This episode isn’t just an update. It’s a wake-up call. From cultural transformation to political reckoning, Bryce and Richard deliver the kind of fearless, forward-looking analysis that makes Need to Know essential listening for anyone following the UAP story as it breaks into the mainstream.
In this episode of Project Book Club, Bryce Zabel and Chrissy Newton dive into Sekret Machines: Gods, Man & War by Tom DeLonge and Peter Levenda. The discussion unpacks how the book blends history, mythology, and modern-day accounts to explore humanity’s long and complex relationship with non-human intelligence. Rather than presenting UFOs as a purely contemporary mystery, DeLonge and Levenda frame the phenomenon as deeply rooted in our collective past, stretching from ancient civilizations to present-day encounters. Bryce and Chrissy consider how the book challenges conventional thinking by drawing parallels between mythology and modern sightings, suggesting that what we’ve long described as gods, angels, or demons may share common ground with today’s UAP reports. They reflect on the balance between hard evidence, cultural interpretation, and the ways secrecy has shaped public understanding of these mysteries. The episode invites listeners to consider how narratives of contact—both ancient and modern—may hold clues about who “they” are and why they continue to appear in human history. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the book’s value as both a thought experiment and a serious attempt to reframe the UAP phenomenon. Bryce and Chrissy leave listeners with big questions about how history, spirituality, and disclosure intersect, setting the stage for future conversations that will continue to explore these intersections with open curiosity and rigorous discussion.
In this episode, Need to Know enters a new chapter, bringing listeners an in-depth conversation on the evolving landscape of UFO and UAP discourse. The hosts take a measured look at recent developments in both politics and the media, analyzing how official statements are shaping — and sometimes distorting — public perception of the phenomenon. They discuss the latest claims surfacing in the community, evaluating their credibility while exploring how these narratives fit into the broader disclosure timeline. The discussion moves beyond U.S. borders, examining how international players are positioning themselves in the conversation around non-human intelligence. From geopolitical considerations to shifting alliances, the team unpacks how global events may accelerate or stall progress toward transparency. They also address the impact of public opinion, the role of independent media, and the importance of credible investigative work in separating fact from speculation. Throughout the episode, listeners get both a big-picture perspective and thoughtful insights into the fine details that matter. The hosts bring their combined experience and curiosity to the table, offering a balanced approach that blends skepticism with open-minded inquiry. With fresh energy, sharp analysis, and a clear focus on what’s next, this marks the beginning of an exciting new era for the show.
In this episode of Project Book Club, Bryce Zabel and Chrissy Newton explore Encounters, the follow-up to Dr. Diana Walsh Pasulka’s American Cosmic. The conversation centers on the evolving relationship between technology, belief, and non-human intelligence, with Bryce and Chrissy examining the book’s central thesis: that the phenomenon is not just material, but deeply metaphysical—and that contact may already be happening, just not in ways we fully understand. They discuss the unique cast of characters Pasulka highlights, including scientists, technologists, and experiencers who remain anonymous yet share stunning claims. From mysterious artifacts to altered states of consciousness, the episode dives into how Encounters blends religious studies, high strangeness, and modern science in a way that challenges traditional disclosure narratives. Bryce and Chrissy weigh in on Pasulka’s writing style, noting the poetic, sometimes abstract tone that leaves room for interpretation and wonder. They also share their personal takeaways—what resonated, what raised eyebrows, and how this book fits into the larger puzzle of UAP research. Along the way, they reflect on themes of secrecy, belief, and the possibility that humanity is already in dialogue with something beyond itself. As always, the conversation is rich with insight, curiosity, and just the right amount of caffeine. This episode invites listeners not only to read the book but to question how we define evidence, contact, and reality itself.
In this special Need to Know SCIF debut episode, award-winning journalist and series co-creator Bryce Zabel hosts a powerful roundtable with three leading voices in the UAP community: Jason Guillemette (UAP Studies Podcast), Ryan Robbins (Post Disclosure World), and Need to Know producer Tyler Stevens. Together, they unpack the explosive claims made by Ross Coulthart in the most recent episode of Need to Know — particularly the suggestion that the now-infamous Tic Tac UFO witnessed by Navy pilots off the coast of San Diego may not be extraterrestrial at all, but instead a product of secretive human engineering, possibly tied to Lockheed Martin. The conversation revisits the background of the 2004 USS Nimitz encounter, where highly trained U.S. military personnel observed a Tic Tac-shaped object performing maneuvers that defied known physics. The panel discusses the implications of these objects being operated with electrogravitic propulsion systems — a form of advanced, possibly suppressed technology — and how such capabilities could be hidden under the guise of “drone impunity,” allowing classified programs to operate in plain sight. The discussion explores the deeper tension between the public’s demand for disclosure and the government’s history of obfuscation, raising questions about who truly controls this technology and whether the narrative is being manipulated. With each guest bringing a unique perspective — from podcast journalism to deep research and production — this episode offers one of the most direct, critical conversations yet on the true nature of the Tic Tac and the battle over UAP transparency.
In this powerful episode of Need to Know, Ross Coulthart and Bryce Zabel regroup following their in-person appearance at Contact in the Desert, where they spoke to a packed audience and connected with key voices in the UFO/UAP field. The conversation kicks off with a major revelation from Ross about the 2004 Tic Tac incident—one of the most pivotal cases in modern UFO history. Ross lays out new details suggesting that the full extent of the encounter has not been disclosed to the public. Drawing on high-level sources and investigative leads, he presents a serious claim that the event was not just a singular anomaly but part of a broader pattern involving international military activity and the concealment of advanced technologies potentially linked to China. The episode dives deep into the challenges of breaking significant stories in today’s media landscape, the resistance faced by whistleblowers, and the careful verification process that underpins responsible journalism. With 60 Minutes preparing to revisit the UAP topic, Bryce and Ross discuss the shifting tone in mainstream media and how the public is becoming more engaged, but also more skeptical. This episode stands out not only for its compelling content but for the credibility of its hosts, who bring a blend of journalistic rigor, historical insight, and first-hand experience to one of the most pressing issues of our time.
In this episode, Bryce Zabel and Chrissy Newton take a deep dive into Imminent, the highly anticipated memoir by Lue Elizondo. From his unusual upbringing and military background to his insider perspective on AATIP and UAP disclosure, the book covers a wide range of bold and fascinating topics. The hosts discuss Elizondo’s revelations about crash retrievals, biologics, Roswell, and the secretive Interloper program, while also exploring his focus on consciousness, national security, and the challenges of pushing this conversation forward. They reflect on the book’s tone, structure, and impact, acknowledging both its strengths and the questions it raises. Bryce and Chrissy offer thoughtful commentary on the balance between personal storytelling and hard evidence, and why Imminent feels like a pivotal entry in the growing library of serious UAP literature. Whether you’re a longtime follower of Elizondo’s journey or just getting started, this conversation brings both insight and appreciation to one of the most talked-about books in the field.
In this special live edition of Need to Know, recorded at Contact in the Desert, Ross Coulthart and Bryce Zabel sit down in front of a packed audience to reflect on their personal origin stories with the UFO/UAP mystery. From Ross’s early investigative journalism to Bryce’s work in Hollywood and exposure to firsthand testimony, both share the compelling “aha” moments that pulled them deeper into the phenomenon. The conversation dives into some of the most significant cases that continue to shape their perspectives, including historical sightings, government secrecy, and the whistleblowers who have risked everything to speak out. It’s a revealing and thoughtful dialogue that offers fans a deeper understanding of what drives their work. The episode also opens up to the audience with a live Q&A session, where Ross and Bryce respond to insightful and sometimes provocative questions from attendees. Their answers shed light on the current state of disclosure, the role of journalism and entertainment in shaping public understanding, and how the broader community can contribute to pushing the conversation forward. With honest reflection, humor, and a sense of urgency, this episode captures the spirit of the conference and reminds us why staying curious and informed is more important than ever. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Welcome to the first episode of Project Book Club, where hosts Bryce Zabel and Chrissy Newton launch a fresh kind of conversation around the books that shape the UFO and consciousness landscape. This isn’t your typical late-night podcast. It’s a morning-show-style book club made for readers who want to explore the unknown with a hot drink in hand and curiosity on full blast. In this episode, Bryce and Chrissy dive into The Believer by Ralph Blumenthal, the biography of Harvard psychiatrist Dr. John Mack. Mack rose to prominence for his Pulitzer Prize-winning work, but his legacy shifted dramatically when he began studying alien abduction phenomena. Bryce and Chrissy unpack the book’s layered portrait of Mack, exploring his courage, contradictions, and the firestorm he faced from Harvard when he chose to publicly validate the experiences of abductees. The discussion touches on the emotional depth of Mack’s journey, including his personal flaws, academic brilliance, and the spiritual and philosophical questions that guided his work. They examine how Mack challenged the limits of Western scientific thought, his interest in consciousness, and how his openness to Eastern philosophies influenced both his worldview and research methods. Bryce and Chrissy also reflect on some of the major events in Mack’s life, like his involvement in the Ariel School incident in Zimbabwe, and his controversial interviews on national television. They take time to discuss his critics, his supporters, and the legacy he left behind when he died unexpectedly in 2004. Through thoughtful insights and a bit of morning humor, this episode sets the stage for what Project Book Club is all about: digging deep into powerful stories, asking big questions, and creating a community where readers can explore the unknown together. ProjectBookClub.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this revealing episode, Ross Coulthart and Bryce Zabel tackle a wave of breaking developments in the UFO/UAP landscape. They begin with the extraordinary final testimony of Dr. Harold Malmgren, a former U.S. official who, shortly before his death, disclosed direct knowledge of downed non-human craft, recovered biologics, and the controversial existence of Majestic 12. The hosts analyze his statement’s implications, exploring how nuclear technology may have been used to down UFOs and the possibility that world powers are actively racing to reverse-engineer this non-human technology. They also break down the recent public appearance of Matthew Brown, the anonymous source behind the Immaculate Constellation document, featured on Weaponized. Ross and Bryce weigh the credibility of his claims, the alleged black triangle over a Russian vessel, and whether aerospace contractors and private corporations have become the modern-day vaults for UFO secrets. With growing international interest in non-human intelligence, the episode also explores the broader landscape of secrecy, disclosure, and media manipulation. Ross provides fresh intel about ongoing investigations and how other nations are now taking steps toward greater transparency. They also reflect on the role of pop culture, censorship on Wikipedia, and how history is being actively written—or erased—before our eyes. The episode ends with a light preview of their upcoming appearance at Contact in the Desert and a humorous yet insightful short video from Will, capturing how everyday conversations around UFOs are changing in living rooms across the country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this wide-ranging episode of Need to Know, Ross Coulthart and Bryce Zabel explore some of the most urgent and complex developments in the UAP world, politics, and history. They begin with a take on the recent Signal security scandal in the U.S. government, comparing it to their own use of encrypted messaging. This segues into a deep dive on the continuing UAP drone saga over U.S. airspace. Ross goes so far as to say these objects are likely anomalous and potentially connected to non-human intelligence. They express frustration over official government explanations that no longer hold up and a media landscape that fails to ask the right questions. The duo also covers the growing importance of independent projects like Skywatcher, which claims to have repeatedly summoned and filmed UAPs, including jellyfish-like aerial entities, with advanced equipment. They highlight the risk of foreign powers like Russia or China beating the U.S. to disclosure and discuss the lack of action from the new presidential administration despite previous promises. Other key topics include David Grusch joining Congress, the failure of government institutions to act transparently, and the newly released JFK documents, where Ross shares jaw-dropping claims about potential links between JFK and a secret UAP retrieval operation. They close by emphasizing the need for real evidence and discernment in the age of misinformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode of Need to Know, Ross Coulthart and Bryce Zabel discuss the latest developments in the UAP conversation, particularly the lack of action from the new U.S. administration despite previous campaign promises. They highlight the role of key figures like John Ratcliffe, the new CIA director, and Marco Rubio, the new Secretary of State, both of whom have previously acknowledged the reality of unexplained aerial phenomena. The conversation also delves into Elon Musk’s recent claims that he would know about secret UAP programs if they existed—claims that Ross and Bryce find naive, given the compartmentalized nature of classified government projects. The episode also explores the broader implications of disclosure, touching on government secrecy, potential geopolitical ramifications, and the upcoming documentary The Age of Disclosure, which promises to feature high-level insiders speaking out about UAPs. Additionally, the hosts discuss Richard Dolan’s new book on USOs (Unidentified Submerged Objects) and the historical significance of cases like Kecksburg and the Betty and Barney Hill abduction. The ongoing mystery of military drone incursions and their potential ties to UAP phenomena is another major talking point, with Ross expressing frustration over media and government responses. They close by considering the possibility that foreign powers like Russia or China might take the lead on disclosure, potentially forcing the U.S. to respond. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode of Need to Know: Extra, Bryce Zabel dives deep into the enduring mystery of Roswell, emphasizing its significance in the broader UAP discussion. He explores recent congressional interest in crash wreckage, particularly Rep. Ana Paulina Luna's investigative efforts and Ross Coulthart's reporting on Jake Barber’s claims regarding helicopter retrieval of crash materials. The discussion revisits the historical context of Roswell, highlighting how it became marginalized despite continued revelations from key figures like Lue Elizondo and David Grusch, who both reaffirm that it was, in fact, a crash event involving non-human biological samples. Bryce is joined by Roswell researcher Don Schmitt, who provides an in-depth look at the case, recounting decades of investigation and first-hand witness testimonies. The conversation explores how the U.S. government has repeatedly changed its explanation for Roswell, from flying saucer claims to weather balloons, Project Mogul, and crash test dummies. They discuss the challenges of proving the case today, the missing Roswell files, and the extreme lengths taken to suppress witness accounts. Schmitt emphasizes the significance of deathbed confessions and ongoing efforts to uncover physical wreckage, believing that Roswell remains the key to unraveling the UFO mystery once and for all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Bryce Zabel and Ross Coulthart return to discuss major UAP developments, whistleblower revelations, and shifting government narratives. Bryce shares his recent wildfire evacuation experience, drawing parallels to the unpredictable nature of disclosure. Ross delves into whistleblower Jake Barber’s claims and the risks involved in exposing classified UAP recovery programs, as well as Congress’s growing involvement in the issue. The conversation also touches on political figures like Tulsi Gabbard and Marco Rubio, media failures in holding the government accountable, and new documentaries such as Age of Disclosure. Ross explores the Pentagon’s interest in psionic abilities and remote viewing, linking consciousness studies to UAP research. Finally, they revisit the JFK assassination, arguing it was a CIA-led coup, and question whether full disclosure—on UAPs or historical conspiracies—will ever come. The episode highlights the growing momentum behind UAP transparency and the ongoing struggle to uncover hidden truths. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
This episode of Need to Know delves into recent global UFO sightings, including mysterious drone activity over sensitive military installations, and the lack of governmental clarity in addressing these phenomena. Ross Coulthart shares updates on anomalous aerial phenomena worldwide and recounts his recent trip to Egypt, where he explored ancient sites and discussed their potential connections to historical mysteries. Bryce Zabel reflects on his attendance at the Sol Foundation Symposium, emphasizing its focus on advancing UAP research through scientific collaboration and dialogue. The hosts also discuss key moments from 2024, such as the impact of Lue Elizondo’s book Eminent, and speculate on what the coming year may hold for disclosure and public awareness. This episode weaves together recent events, ancient mysteries, and forward-looking insights into UAP research and societal implications. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
This episode of Need to Know dives deep into a series of captivating topics, including upcoming congressional hearings on UAPs and the cast of witnesses set to testify, such as Lou Elizondo, Rear Admiral Timothy Gallaudet, and former NASA official Michael Gold. Ross shares his perspective on the potential impact of these hearings and the possible revelations from key figures, touching on themes of government transparency, national security, and the shadowy history surrounding UAP secrecy. Bryce and Ross also discuss recent U.S. political events, including how the return of Donald Trump to office might influence UAP disclosure, considering his past comments and interactions on the subject. The conversation broadens as Ross previews his upcoming journey to Egypt, where he’ll explore connections between ancient civilizations and advanced technology with enthusiasts of Egyptian history and UAP phenomena. They also review two new UFO series currently streaming, including Investigation Alien on Netflix, where George Knapp’s work provides a new lens on cases like the Phoenix Lights and Kolaris incidents. This episode offers a thought-provoking look at the intersection of UAPs, political intrigue, and ancient mysteries, leaving the audience with plenty to anticipate in the coming months. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode of Need to Know, Richard Dolan joins the conversation to explore the fascinating subject of Unidentified Submerged Objects (USOs) and their historical significance. The discussion covers various aspects of USOs, including the vast number of sightings and incidents reported over centuries, their relation to UAPs, and how these submerged objects demonstrate extraordinary capabilities, such as entering and leaving the water without causing a splash. Dolan shares some of the most compelling cases, including the infamous Shag Harbor incident, and offers insights into his upcoming three-volume book on the history of USOs. The episode also touches on other related topics, such as the role of the Navy versus the Air Force in UAP investigations and a broader perspective on potential disclosure. Additionally, Dolan discusses Lue Elizondo’s new book Imminent and its connections to USOs, as well as his personal thoughts on the evolving UFO/UAP narrative. The episode ends with reflections on the future of disclosure and what it could mean for our understanding of these phenomena. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode of Need to Know, Lue Elizondo joins Ross Coulthart and Bryce Zabel to discuss major developments in the UAP space, particularly following the release of his new book, Imminent. Elizondo sheds light on the ongoing disclosure process, touching on the frustrations with government secrecy, the slow pace of mainstream media coverage, and the obstacles whistleblowers like himself and David Grush face. The conversation dives into the mysteries surrounding the Roswell incident, crash retrievals, and non-human intelligence (NHI), while also addressing broader societal impacts of full UAP disclosure. Elizondo further shares thoughts on historical moments like the JFK assassination, noting potential connections to hidden truths about UAPs and covert government agendas. Other topics discussed include abductions, national security concerns, and the significance of capturing more high-definition evidence to advance the conversation on UAPs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode, the discussion centers on the escalating developments in the UAP field, highlighted by Lue Elizondo's upcoming book, Imminent. The hosts delve into Elizondo's experiences and revelations, emphasizing his role as a pivotal figure in the ongoing disclosure movement. They touch on the implications of his work and the potential impact of his new book, which promises to shed light on previously undisclosed information. The episode also covers broader topics such as the influence of UAPs on global politics, the role of the media in covering these phenomena, and the potential consequences of disclosure. The conversation underscores the tension between the slow pace of official disclosure and the growing public awareness fueled by figures like Elizondo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode of "Need to Know," Bryce Zabel and Ross Coulthart delve into the history of UFO phenomena, marking significant anniversaries from 1944 to the present day. The hosts discuss notable sightings and events, emphasizing that UFO encounters are not recent phenomena but part of a long-standing historical pattern. They touch on key incidents like the 1944 Foo Fighters, the 1974 John Lennon sighting, and the 1994 Ariel School encounter, highlighting both the historical depth and global nature of UFO sightings. The episode also addresses current legislative efforts concerning UFO transparency and the potential implications of upcoming U.S. presidential politics on UFO disclosure. The overarching theme is the persistent, yet elusive quest for clarity and disclosure within the UFO community, underscored by a call for historical awareness and government transparency. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Matthew Davis
this is a brilliant idea
Russ Quinn
One hundred percent.
Justin Sforza
NEED TO record more podcasts