The John Batchelor Show

Veronique de Rugy uses a 700-year-old Siena fresco to discuss the virtues of good governance. The artwork illustrates that a flourishing society requires the rule of law and justice. She cautions that modern industrial policies and government cronyism represent the same arbitrary governance the fresco warns against. (16) TUSCANY POSTCARD

Cliff May explores the historical link between socialism and Islamism, tracing partnerships from early Bolsheviks to the Iranian Revolution . These alliances often end in violence and purges of leftists, as seen when Ayatollah Khomeini executed communist leaders. He warns that these ideologies generally favor oppressive one-party states. (15) 1972 IRAN

Thomas Savidge argues for stringent budget reforms and spending cuts to address the fiscal crisis. He notes that while many elected officials recognize the problem, the priority of political reelection prevents them from making unpopular decisions, leaving the country in a cycle of unsustainable federal spending. (14) 1929

Thomas Savidge warns that the US national debt is reaching dangerous levels relative to GDP. He explains that rising interest costs are now exceeding national defense spending, which threatens to stifle the productive economy and lead to a decreased standard of living for the average American taxpayer. (13) 1865 

Josh Dean summarizes Kelly Johnson's 14 rules, emphasizing simplicity and speed. These principles required small teams and minimal paperwork to innovate effectively. Before passing away in 1990, Johnson witnessed a final emotional flyover of his iconic Blackbird , marking the end of a legendary aviation era. (12) 1962

Josh Dean highlights Kelly Johnson's struggle with anxiety and health, alongside the emergence of stealth technology. Under his successor Ben Rich , Skunk Works developed the F-117 Nighthawk . Utilizing facets to scatter radar, this "hopeless diamond" proved that an invisible plane was mathematically possible. (11)

Josh Dean recounts Kelly Johnson's creation of the world's first drone for reconnaissance and his failed pitch for an A-12 bomber. He clashed with Defense Secretary Robert McNamara , who ordered the destruction of A-12 tools. The segment also highlights Johnson's personal life on his California ranch. (10) 1962 CUBAN MISSILE CRISIS

Josh Dean explores the Area 51 mysteries and the Gary Powers incident. Many UFO sightings were actually spy planes like the U-2 , tested in secret. Despite the shootdown of Powers in 1960, Johnson had already begun developing the Mach 3.2 Blackbird to maintain an intelligence advantage. (9) 1962 CUBA

Josh Dean details the CIA -led U-2 program, designed for high-altitude reconnaissance over the Soviet Union . To achieve 70,000 feet, Johnson created a lightweight glider-like plane. This required the invention of specialized pressure suits for pilots, providing nearly 75% of intelligence gathered during the Cold War . (8) 1951

Josh Dean explains the Skunk Works method through the development of the F-104 Starfighter . Johnson demanded total control and minimal oversight from the Air Force , focusing on speed and climb. His test pilots, including Tony LeVier , formed an intimate, trusted team that operated like "cowboys". (7) 1951

Josh Dean describes the early days of the Lockheed Corporation and the birth of Skunk Works . After saving the company by fixing the Electra , Kelly Johnson promised a jet fighter in just six months. Operating out of a circus tent, his team produced the P-80 in 143 days. (6) 1951

Josh Dean introduces Kelly Johnson , the brilliant engineer behind the P-38 fighter. Born to hardworking Swedish parents, Johnson overcame poverty to become a legend in aviation. His industrious nature and early mastery of aeronautics led him to Lockheed , where he would transform the industry during WWII . (5) 1951

Mariam Wahba reports on the brutal persecution of Christians under the Chinese Communist Party's "sinicization" policy. This effort involves rewriting the Bible and mandating state-sanctioned clergy to ensure religion serves the state. Despite this, the underground church continues to grow, posing a challenge to CCP authority. (4) 1905 SHANGHAI

Mary Anastasia O'Grady reports on the earthquake tragedy in Venezuela and the incompetence of the Rodriguez regime. She details how officials like Diosdado Cabello hinder rescue efforts to hide illicit activities. Meanwhile, the opposition leader María Corina Machado is being blocked from returning to the country. (3) 1948

Anatol Lieven explores a potential peace compromise and the risks of escalation. He notes that while Ukraine can make Russia suffer via drone strikes on energy infrastructure, aerial bombardment alone will not force a surrender. A single miscalculation could lead to a direct clash between Russia and NATO . (2) 1956