Are lockdowns and men in dresses the new normal? Old pals Senator Ted Cruz and Michael Knowles get together to break down the dramatic shifts happening right now in politics and pop culture. From ludicrous leftist lockdowns to Harry Styles eating a banana—what do these things mean for normalcy in America? Plus, the podcasting pair outlines what the Senate could do to influence a potential Biden cabinet and preclude the worst scenarios.



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Are lockdowns and men in dresses the new normal? Old pals Senator Ted Cruz and Michael Knowles get together to break down the dramatic shifts happening right now in politics and pop culture. From ludicrous leftist lockdowns to Harry Styles eating a banana—what do these things mean for normalcy in America? Plus, the podcasting pair outlines what the Senate could do to influence a potential Biden cabinet and preclude the worst scenarios. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Join Senator Ted Cruz and co-host Ben Ferguson as they break down the most important news stories of the day and reveal what they mean for you. On "Verdict with Ted Cruz,” you will go behind the scenes of the political debates that define our country. "Verdict with Ted Cruz" is being brought to you by Jobs, Freedom, and Security PAC, a political action committee dedicated to supporting conservative causes, organizations, and candidates across the country. In 2022, Jobs, Freedom, and Security PAC plans to donate to conservative candidates running for Congress and help the Republican Party across the nation.

Join Senator Ted Cruz and co-host Ben Ferguson as they break down the most important news stories of the day and reveal what they mean for you. On "Verdict with Ted Cruz,&rdquo; you will go behind the scenes of the political debates that define our country. "Verdict with Ted Cruz" is being brought to you by Jobs, Freedom, and Security PAC, a political action committee dedicated to supporting conservative causes, organizations, and candidates across the country. In 2022, Jobs, Freedom, and Security PAC plans to donate to conservative candidates running for Congress and help the Republican Party across the nation.

Verdict with Ted Cruz

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Join Ben for unfiltered insights, exclusive interviews, and honest commentary you won’t get from the mainstream media. Ben takes you behind the scenes, covering the issues shaping America today - straight from the President’s Oval Office.

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Hosted by popular national radio host, podcaster and political commentator Ben Ferguson,&nbsp;The 47 Morning Update spotlights the latest news and political headlines, with a special focus on the President's administration, policies, and agenda.
Join Ben for unfiltered insights, exclusive interviews, and honest commentary you won&rsquo;t get from the mainstream media. Ben takes you behind the scenes, covering the issues shaping America today - straight from the President&rsquo;s Oval Office.
Don&rsquo;t miss a single episode. New updates drop daily, Monday through Saturday. Subscribe now on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you listen to podcasts&mdash;be informed, stay ahead, and join Ben on The 47 Morning Update!

The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson

If you hate the liberal media but love the 47th President, than this is the podcast for you. Ben Ferguson brings you the commentary on the news that the biased media will not cover.

If you hate the liberal media but love the&nbsp;47th&nbsp;President, than this is the podcast for you. Ben Ferguson brings you the commentary on the news that the biased media will not cover.

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The Ben Ferguson Podcast

Join Senator Ted Cruz and co-host Ben Ferguson as they break down the most important news stories of the day and reveal what they mean for you. On "Verdict with Ted Cruz,&rdquo; you will go behind the scenes of the political debates that define our country. "Verdict with Ted Cruz" is being brought to you by Jobs, Freedom, and Security PAC, a political action committee dedicated to supporting conservative causes, organizations, and candidates across the country. In 2022, Jobs, Freedom, and Security PAC plans to donate to conservative candidates running for Congress and help the Republican Party across the nation.

Will We Ever Return to Normal?

1. Visit with U.S. Soldiers Wounded in the Maduro Raid
Senator Ted Cruz visits three U.S. soldiers wounded during a raid intended to arrest Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
All soldiers are recovering in stable condition and none suffered life‑threatening injuries.
One soldier helped plan and lead the raid and continued fighting after being shot.
Two soldiers requested keepsakes from their injuries (a bullet and shrapnel), which Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth approved as a morale gesture.
Emphasis on:

Heroism and discipline of U.S. forces
No American fatalities despite being outnumbered
Significant Cuban forces defending Maduro were reportedly killed

2. Symbolism and Morale
Soldiers and their families (wives present) showed strong morale and faith.
Soldiers expressed eagerness to return to duty.
A former commanding officer expressed regret at missing the mission, reinforcing camaraderie and pride.

3. Meeting with Venezuelan Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado
Cruz met with Maria Corina Machado, Venezuelan opposition leader now living in exile in the United States.
Machado:

Previously awarded the Nobel Peace Prize
Met with President Donald Trump at the White House
Symbolically presented Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize as gratitude for U.S. support

4. Political Situation in Venezuela
Widespread celebration in Venezuela following Maduro’s removal.
Some political prisoners released, though still monitored.
Current acting leadership (Delcy Rodríguez) is described as illegitimate and a continuation of the Maduro regime.
Machado strongly advocates for:

Free and fair elections
A swift election timeline (Cruz suggests within six months)

5. Bipartisan Senate Meeting
Machado met with about a dozen U.S. senators, including Republicans and Democrats.
Cruz praises her decision to pursue bipartisan unity instead of partisan attacks.
Unity from the U.S. is portrayed as critical for Venezuela’s democratic transition.

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1. Visit with U.S. Soldiers Wounded in the Maduro Raid
<ul>
<li>Senator Ted Cruz visits three U.S. soldiers wounded during a raid intended to arrest Venezuelan leader Nicol&aacute;s Maduro.</li>
<li>All soldiers are recovering in stable condition and none suffered life‑threatening injuries.</li>
<li>One soldier helped plan and lead the raid and continued fighting after being shot.</li>
<li>Two soldiers requested keepsakes from their injuries (a bullet and shrapnel), which Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth approved as a morale gesture.</li>
<li>Emphasis on:
<ul>
<li>Heroism and discipline of U.S. forces</li>
<li>No American fatalities despite being outnumbered</li>
<li>Significant Cuban forces defending Maduro were reportedly killed</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
2. Symbolism and Morale
<ul>
<li>Soldiers and their families (wives present) showed strong morale and faith.</li>
<li>Soldiers expressed eagerness to return to duty.</li>
<li>A former commanding officer expressed regret at missing the mission, reinforcing camaraderie and pride.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
3. Meeting with Venezuelan Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado
<ul>
<li>Cruz met with Maria Corina Machado, Venezuelan opposition leader now living in exile in the United States.</li>
<li>Machado:
<ul>
<li>Previously awarded the Nobel Peace Prize</li>
<li>Met with President Donald Trump at the White House</li>
<li>Symbolically presented Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize as gratitude for U.S. support</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
4. Political Situation in Venezuela
<ul>
<li>Widespread celebration in Venezuela following Maduro&rsquo;s removal.</li>
<li>Some political prisoners released, though still monitored.</li>
<li>Current acting leadership (Delcy Rodr&iacute;guez) is described as illegitimate and a continuation of the Maduro regime.</li>
<li>Machado strongly advocates for:
<ul>
<li>Free and fair elections</li>
<li>A swift election timeline (Cruz suggests within six months)</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
5. Bipartisan Senate Meeting
<ul>
<li>Machado met with about a dozen U.S. senators, including Republicans and Democrats.</li>
<li>Cruz praises her decision to pursue bipartisan unity instead of partisan attacks.</li>
<li>Unity from the U.S. is portrayed as critical for Venezuela&rsquo;s democratic transition.</li>
</ul>
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Inside the Room with the Heroic Soldiers Wounded in the Maduro Raid & with Venezuelan Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/6fcc0011-b50a-48e0-a220-b3bd014fba0b/transcript

1. Bruce Pearl’s Career & Background
Former Auburn basketball coach; won a Division II national championship and reached the Final Four twice.
Unique fact: Pearl never played organized basketball (not even JV) before becoming a Division I coach.
Started as a manager at Boston College, later became an assistant coach at Stanford under Tom Davis.
Emphasizes making yourself valuable and being authentic as keys to success.

2. Coaching Philosophy
Core principles:

“Coach them as hard as you love them” – building deep relationships with players.
Empower players and trust them; avoid micromanaging.
Great coaches excel at creating offense and getting players good looks.
Importance of roles and dimensions in a team: maximize strengths, hide weaknesses.
Advice for young athletes: develop a unique skill or dimension that makes you stand out.

3. NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) & College Sports
Pearl criticizes the NCAA for failing to adapt, calling it “arrogant” and responsible for chaos.
NIL has transformed college sports:

Top rosters now cost $35–$40 million annually.
Smaller schools and Olympic sports are at risk of being cut.
Advocates for urgent reform:

Limited antitrust protection and congressional action to create fair rules.
Warns that without changes, college sports will shrink to 30–50 elite programs.

4. Transfer Portal & Player Relationships
Challenges in building trust and love when players stay only 6 months.
Compares transfer portal dynamics to personal relationships—loyalty matters.

5. Broader Issues in Sports
Concerns about betting and commercialization.
Advice for high school athletes: play multiple sports early, specialize later, focus on nutrition and toughness.

6. Views on Israel & Anti-Semitism
Strong advocate for Israel; sees American Jews as “the country’s greatest patriots.”
Personal connection: family escaped Europe in 1929; others perished in the Holocaust.
Believes silence equals complicity; stresses unity between Jews and Christians.
Addresses rising anti-Semitism but emphasizes America still offers opportunity.

7. Cultural & Historical Insights
Discusses theology, covenant, and shared values between Jews and Christians.
Critiques “replacement theology” and urges solidarity against bigotry.

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1. Bruce Pearl&rsquo;s Career &amp; Background
<ul>
<li>Former Auburn basketball coach; won a Division II national championship and reached the Final Four twice.</li>
<li>Unique fact: Pearl never played organized basketball (not even JV) before becoming a Division I coach.</li>
<li>Started as a manager at Boston College, later became an assistant coach at Stanford under Tom Davis.</li>
<li>Emphasizes making yourself valuable and being authentic as keys to success.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
2. Coaching Philosophy
<ul>
<li>Core principles:
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Coach them as hard as you love them&rdquo; &ndash; building deep relationships with players.</li>
<li>Empower players and trust them; avoid micromanaging.</li>
<li>Great coaches excel at creating offense and getting players good looks.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Importance of roles and dimensions in a team: maximize strengths, hide weaknesses.</li>
<li>Advice for young athletes: develop a unique skill or dimension that makes you stand out.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
3. NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) &amp; College Sports
<ul>
<li>Pearl criticizes the NCAA for failing to adapt, calling it &ldquo;arrogant&rdquo; and responsible for chaos.</li>
<li>NIL has transformed college sports:
<ul>
<li>Top rosters now cost $35&ndash;$40 million annually.</li>
<li>Smaller schools and Olympic sports are at risk of being cut.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Advocates for urgent reform:
<ul>
<li>Limited antitrust protection and congressional action to create fair rules.</li>
<li>Warns that without changes, college sports will shrink to 30&ndash;50 elite programs.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
4. Transfer Portal &amp; Player Relationships
<ul>
<li>Challenges in building trust and love when players stay only 6 months.</li>
<li>Compares transfer portal dynamics to personal relationships&mdash;loyalty matters.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
5. Broader Issues in Sports
<ul>
<li>Concerns about betting and commercialization.</li>
<li>Advice for high school athletes: play multiple sports early, specialize later, focus on nutrition and toughness.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
6. Views on Israel &amp; Anti-Semitism
<ul>
<li>Strong advocate for Israel; sees American Jews as &ldquo;the country&rsquo;s greatest patriots.&rdquo;</li>
<li>Personal connection: family escaped Europe in 1929; others perished in the Holocaust.</li>
<li>Believes silence equals complicity; stresses unity between Jews and Christians.</li>
<li>Addresses rising anti-Semitism but emphasizes America still offers opportunity.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
7. Cultural &amp; Historical Insights
<ul>
<li>Discusses theology, covenant, and shared values between Jews and Christians.</li>
<li>Critiques &ldquo;replacement theology&rdquo; and urges solidarity against bigotry.</li>
</ul>
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Legendary Coach Bruce Pearl One-on-One: Hoops, NIL & Anti-Semitism in America

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/c1874911-e09e-4c77-ad1c-b3bd014f6e8f/transcript

1. Current Situation in Iran 

Over one million Iranians are protesting against the regime in major cities.
The Iranian leadership has shut down the internet, phones, and media to suppress information and maintain control.
Protesters are risking their lives; acts of defiance include burning hijabs and removing religious coverings in public.

2. Historical Context
References to the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the U.S. hostage crisis (444 days).
Comparison of Jimmy Carter’s weak foreign policy to Barack Obama and Joe Biden, arguing that weakness emboldens adversaries.
Contrast with Ronald Reagan’s strong stance, which led to the release of hostages and eventual Soviet collapse.

3. Iran’s Role in Global Terrorism
Iran funds over 90% of Hamas and Hezbollah budgets.
Responsible for IED attacks and the deaths of 593+ American service members in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Iran manufactures drones used by Russia in Ukraine.
Allegations that Iran plotted to assassinate Donald Trump.

4. U.S. Foreign Policy and Leadership
Strong emphasis on “Peace through Strength” as advocated by Reagan and Trump.
Trump’s recent actions (e.g., military strikes, bunker-buster bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities) portrayed as decisive.
Trump’s public message: “Iran is looking at freedom… USA stands ready to help.”

5. Why Regime Change Matters
The fall of Iran’s regime would be transformational for Middle East stability and U.S. security.
Advocates for regime change without boots on the ground, using diplomatic, economic, and informational support.
Compares potential Iranian revolution to the fall of the Berlin Wall and collapse of the Soviet Union.

6. Role of Media and Messaging
Iranian state TV is allegedly broadcasting Tucker Carlson interviews in Persian as propaganda.
Criticism of voices opposing U.S. involvement or promoting isolationism.
Emphasis on using platforms like podcasts and Starlink internet access to reach Iranians and encourage freedom.

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1. <a href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-says-iran-starting-to-cross-us-red-lines-protesters-die-government-crackdown">Current Situation in Iran</a>&nbsp; 
<ul>
<li>Over one million Iranians are protesting against the regime in major cities.</li>
<li>The Iranian leadership has shut down the internet, phones, and media to suppress information and maintain control.</li>
<li>Protesters are risking their lives; acts of defiance include burning hijabs and removing religious coverings in public.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
2. Historical Context
<ul>
<li>References to the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the U.S. hostage crisis (444 days).</li>
<li>Comparison of Jimmy Carter&rsquo;s weak foreign policy to Barack Obama and Joe Biden, arguing that weakness emboldens adversaries.</li>
<li>Contrast with Ronald Reagan&rsquo;s strong stance, which led to the release of hostages and eventual Soviet collapse.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
3. Iran&rsquo;s Role in Global Terrorism
<ul>
<li>Iran funds over 90% of Hamas and Hezbollah budgets.</li>
<li>Responsible for IED attacks and the deaths of 593+ American service members in Iraq and Afghanistan.</li>
<li>Iran manufactures drones used by Russia in Ukraine.</li>
<li>Allegations that Iran plotted to assassinate Donald Trump.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
4. U.S. Foreign Policy and Leadership
<ul>
<li>Strong emphasis on &ldquo;Peace through Strength&rdquo; as advocated by Reagan and Trump.</li>
<li>Trump&rsquo;s recent actions (e.g., military strikes, bunker-buster bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities) portrayed as decisive.</li>
<li>Trump&rsquo;s public message: &ldquo;Iran is looking at freedom&hellip; USA stands ready to help.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
5. Why Regime Change Matters
<ul>
<li>The fall of Iran&rsquo;s regime would be transformational for Middle East stability and U.S. security.</li>
<li>Advocates for regime change without boots on the ground, using diplomatic, economic, and informational support.</li>
<li>Compares potential Iranian revolution to the fall of the Berlin Wall and collapse of the Soviet Union.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
6. Role of Media and Messaging
<ul>
<li>Iranian state TV is allegedly broadcasting Tucker Carlson interviews in Persian as propaganda.</li>
<li>Criticism of voices opposing U.S. involvement or promoting isolationism.</li>
<li>Emphasis on using platforms like podcasts and Starlink internet access to reach Iranians and encourage freedom.</li>
</ul>
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A Message to the Iranian People: You can Change the World Right NOW, plus WHY it Matters so much for the Safety of Americans

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/451c7cc9-1415-470c-80d4-b3ba006cbfae/transcript

Will We Ever Return to Normal?

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