Episodios

  • Live! Billy Dees, Sara Alessandrini, and Sam Wooldrik - Iran, Immigration, Epstein & More

    Live! Billy Dees, Sara Alessandrini, and Sam Wooldrik - Iran, Immigration, Epstein & More
    Mar 20 2026
    This live episode (Mar 19, 2026, 8:00pm EST) of The Billy Dees Podcast brings together host Billy Dees, filmmaker and commentator Sara Alessandrini, and podcaster Sam Wooldrik for a wide-ranging, unscripted discussion that reflects the fast-moving and often chaotic nature of today’s media and political landscape.

    The conversation moves fluidly across major global and domestic issues—including tensions with Iran, immigration policy, and the ongoing intrigue surrounding the Epstein case—while also examining how these topics are shaped, distorted, and amplified by modern media and the podcasting space itself. At its core, the episode explores how public discourse has become increasingly polarized, emotional, and, at times, disconnected from nuance or reality.

    Throughout the discussion, each guest brings a distinct perspective shaped by their background and experience. Alessandrini offers an international lens, emphasizing the complexity of global events and the importance of understanding cultural context, while Wooldrik provides insight into the evolving podcast ecosystem and the challenges of navigating misinformation, sensationalism, and audience expectations.

    Billy Dees anchors the conversation with a focus on media responsibility and the need for balanced, thoughtful dialogue. Together, they highlight a central tension of the modern era: the struggle to maintain credibility, reason, and meaningful conversation in an environment increasingly driven by outrage, virality, and competing narratives.
    Más Menos
    1 h y 11 m
  • Sara Alessandrini - Problem with Zohran Momdani is Not What He Says, But What He Doesn't

    Sara Alessandrini - Problem with Zohran Momdani is Not What He Says, But What He Doesn't
    Mar 13 2026
    In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, host Billy Dees welcomes returning guest Sara Alessandrini for a wide-ranging discussion that blends media analysis, politics, and cultural perspective. Alessandrini—an accomplished commentator and filmmaker—joins the program to discuss her work and recent writing, including a Substack essay examining the political messaging and policy contradictions surrounding New York City politics. The conversation offers listeners both analysis and context, particularly for those trying to understand the intersection of media narratives and political branding.

    A key focus of the discussion is Alessandrini’s documentary, This Is What New Yorkers Say, a multi-part project that explores the intense media cycle surrounding former New York governor Andrew Cuomo. The series examines how the media helped elevate Cuomo during the early days of the pandemic before later turning sharply critical. Dees and Alessandrini reflect on how this rise-and-fall dynamic mirrors broader trends in modern media, where public figures are often rapidly built up and then dismantled in the public arena.

    The conversation then shifts to Alessandrini’s recent Substack article examining the political image and policy messaging of Zohran Mamdani, the current mayor of New York City. Alessandrini argues that the real issue is not necessarily what Mamdani says publicly, but what his messaging leaves unsaid. Together, she and Dees analyze how political branding, campaign promises, and governing realities can diverge—particularly when leaders campaign on ambitious economic proposals while facing complex fiscal realities once in office.

    Beyond policy debates, the episode also explores broader themes about ideology, populism, and political movements. Alessandrini explains the role of the Democratic Socialists of America and how grassroots political organizations influence local elections and policy conversations. The discussion highlights how political narratives often evolve through media framing, activist movements, and public perception, shaping how voters understand complex economic and social issues.

    Throughout the episode, Alessandrini offers a unique perspective as an immigrant and international observer of American politics. Her reflections on cultural identity, media framing, and political rhetoric provide an additional layer to the conversation, reminding listeners that debates in the United States are often viewed very differently from abroad. The result is a thoughtful and lively exchange that reflects the signature format of The Billy Dees Podcast: informed commentary paired with engaging interviews that challenge audiences to think more critically about politics, media, and the stories that shape public perception.

    Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees

    Sara Alessandrini on X https://x.com/diswhatnyerssay

    Documentary This is What New Yorkers Say https://www.thisiswhatnewyorkerssay.com/
    Más Menos
    1 h y 4 m
  • The Rise of the “Patriot Economy” - Marketing, Politics, and the Psychology of Giving with Jeff Kruszyna

    The Rise of the “Patriot Economy” - Marketing, Politics, and the Psychology of Giving with Jeff Kruszyna
    Mar 7 2026
    Billy Dees welcomes Jeff Kruszyna, founder and CEO of JMK Victory, for a wide-ranging conversation about politics, marketing, and the rise of what he calls the “patriot economy.” With more than 20 years in direct response marketing and over $100 million raised for campaigns, PACs, and advocacy organizations, Kruszyna shares insight into how values-driven consumerism is reshaping business and political fundraising.

    The discussion explores how September 11th changed the course of Kruszyna’s life, leading him from a computer science student at Stony Brook University into the world of political strategy and fundraising. Dees and Kruszyna also examine today’s polarized political environment, the influence of algorithms and digital media, and why many Americans are increasingly aligning their purchasing decisions with their beliefs.

    They also dive into the psychology behind successful fundraising, the surprising staying power of direct mail marketing, and the biggest mistakes political campaigns make when trying to build donor support.

    It’s a fascinating look at the intersection of politics, persuasion, and the evolving American marketplace.

    Follow Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees

    Book Your Call with Jeff Kruszyna https://booking.jmkvictory.com/jeff
    Más Menos
    50 m
  • Eric Robinson Tells his Journey from Pastor to the FBI

    Eric Robinson Tells his Journey from Pastor to the FBI
    Feb 28 2026
    On this episode of the Billy Dees Podcast, Billy welcomes former FBI Special Agent Eric Robinson for a compelling conversation that bridges faith, federal investigations, and frontline reality.

    After 24 years with the FBI — working white-collar crime, counter-terrorism, gangs, drugs, crimes against children, and serving as a SWAT operator and firearms instructor — Eric shares what the job is really like beyond the television dramas. From the painstaking process behind wiretaps to the split-second decisions made during high-risk operations, he offers a grounded look at life inside the Bureau.

    But Eric’s story doesn’t begin with law enforcement. Before joining the FBI, he spent 12 years in Christian ministry, even planting and pastoring a church in Western New York. In this candid discussion, he explains how counseling skills from the pulpit carried over into interrogation rooms — and how years of exposure to crime can challenge faith, perspective, and compassion.

    Billy and Eric also dive into modern terrorism threats, political perceptions of the FBI, law enforcement scrutiny, and the realities of use-of-force decisions. It’s an honest, thoughtful exchange that moves beyond headlines and into the human experience behind the badge.

    Eric also previews his upcoming memoir — a collection of humorous, surprising, and powerful moments from his journey “from preacher to breacher.” A wide-ranging, insightful conversation you won’t want to miss.

    Follow Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees

    Eric Robinson on X https://x.com/EricR0binson
    Más Menos
    46 m
  • Cinda Gault — Writing Women, History, and Identity

    Cinda Gault — Writing Women, History, and Identity
    Feb 21 2026
    Podcast Description: Cinda Gault — Writing Women, History, and Identity

    In this episode, Billy Dees welcomes Canadian author Cinda Gault for a wide-ranging and thoughtful conversation about literature, feminism, history, and cultural identity.

    Cinda Gault shares her journey from second-wave feminist activism in 1970s Canada to earning advanced degrees in criminology and English, and ultimately becoming a novelist. The discussion explores her three books — This Godforsaken Place, A Small Compass, and Everything I Hope For — and her passion for telling stories about resilient women navigating both wilderness frontiers and modern urban life.

    The conversation also dives into:

    · What it was really like coming of age in the 1970s
    · Canada’s unique cultural and political identity
    · Why Canada has no federal abortion law
    · The evolution of feminism and identity politics
    · Music, community, and what’s been lost since the hi-fi era
    · How fiction restores the human stories history leaves behind

    From Annie Oakley to Wayne Gretzky, from Hudson’s Bay archives to modern debates about autonomy and progress, this episode is an engaging cross-border dialogue about how societies change — and how storytelling preserves what facts alone cannot.

    A thoughtful, civil, and compelling exchange you won’t want to miss.

    Cinda Gault's website https://cindagault.com/

    Find Billy Dees here https://linktr.ee/BillyDees
    Más Menos
    50 m
  • A Deep Dive into the Epstein Files - Politics, Power, and Public Perception

    A Deep Dive into the Epstein Files - Politics, Power, and Public Perception
    Feb 13 2026
    In this episode, Billy Dees welcomes fellow podcaster Sam, host of the Shades of Jade Podcast, for a wide-ranging and thought-provoking discussion that blends commentary with investigative curiosity. Sam’s show, much like Billy’s, tackles current events and cultural flashpoints — and lately, her focus has been on the ever-evolving story surrounding Jeffrey Epstein.

    At the heart of the conversation is the public reaction to the so-called “Epstein files.” Sam explains that much of her coverage has centered on separating fact from fiction. Just because a name appears in documents connected to Jeffrey Epstein does not mean criminal involvement. Invitations, flight logs, and peripheral associations have fueled online speculation, but as Sam notes, guilt by association is not the same as proof of wrongdoing. In a political climate where names are quickly weaponized, the discussion highlights how easily narratives can spiral beyond the available evidence.

    Billy and Sam also explore the figures most closely tied to Epstein, including Ghislaine Maxwell and Prince Andrew. Why, they ask, has Maxwell faced conviction while many powerful individuals named in connection with Epstein have not? The episode raises questions about legal standards, the difficulty of prosecuting crimes involving elites, and the challenge of distinguishing moral suspicion from criminal liability. The conversation doesn’t shy away from controversial territory either — from Epstein’s mysterious death to broader concerns about transparency, redactions, and political theater surrounding document releases.

    Throughout the episode, Billy brings his trademark skepticism and conversational style, pressing on issues of power, privilege, and accountability. Sam offers measured analysis, emphasizing the importance of evidence over outrage. Together, they examine how high-profile scandals unfold in real time — shaped not only by courts and investigators, but by media narratives, partisan divides, and public emotion.

    This episode is less about sensationalism and more about asking difficult questions: What do we really know? What is assumption? And why does this case continue to grip the public imagination years later? It’s a candid, layered discussion about truth, influence, and the complexities of justice in a world where powerful names dominate the headlines.

    Billy Dees on X @BillyDees https://x.com/BillyDees

    Shades of Jade on X @ShadesofJadePod https://x.com/ShadesofJadePod?s=20
    Más Menos
    38 m
  • Dr. Marc J. Defant - Activism vs. Science - Evolutionary Psychology & Gender Differences

    Dr. Marc J. Defant - Activism vs. Science - Evolutionary Psychology & Gender Differences
    Feb 6 2026
    What happens when ideology collides with science?

    In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy sits down with Dr. Marc J. Defant, professor of geology and geochemistry at the University of South Florida and author of Voyage of Discovery: From the Big Bang to the Ice Age. Dr. Defant brings decades of scientific research—and a willingness to challenge academic orthodoxy—to a wide-ranging conversation about evolutionary psychology, biology, and the growing politicization of higher education.

    Together, Billy and Dr. Defant explore why evidence still matters, how evolutionary psychology explains sex differences and human behavior, and where modern feminism and social constructionism clash with data. From masculinity and mate selection to the gender pay gap, academia, and the erosion of intellectual honesty, this episode cuts through culture-war noise with a grounded, unapologetically evidence-based discussion.

    If you’re interested in science, free inquiry, and conversations that don’t pull punches, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

    Billy Dees Links https://linktr.ee/BillyDees
    Más Menos
    54 m
  • D.H. Morris - Author - "The Girl of Many Crowns"

    D.H. Morris - Author - "The Girl of Many Crowns"
    Jan 30 2026
    If you enjoy history, you will really like this episode.

    D. H. Morris, a native of San Diego, California, has lived on four continents and traveled through countless countries. Now residing in Kansas City, Missouri, she’s the proud mother of four children and grandmother to eleven. With a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Choral Music Education from Utah State University, she later pursued graduate studies in English at USU and law at the University of Utah.

    A published playwright, she has recently turned her passion for history into a novel, The Girl of Many Crowns. Set in the Kingdom of Francia in 856 AD, the book tells the gripping true story of Judith, the first princess of France, and Baldwin “Iron Arm,” a knight of King Charles the Bald. Together, they defy an empire, embarking on a daring journey that will change history. As a descendant of both Judith and Baldwin, D. H. Morris uncovered their remarkable tale while working on a genealogical project. Intrigued, she dove deep into the 9th century, researching everything from politics and war to food, clothing, and marriage customs. She is passionate about this remarkable time in history when the European countries we know today were being formed and fighting for their very existence.

    D.H. Morris Website https://newclassicspublishing.com/
    Más Menos
    43 m