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Writer's pictureJessie Virga

[Episode 16] What the News Didn't Report This Week

Updated: Jan 2



This week we kick off a very new segment where I share important news and information that didn't make it into the headlines or on your newsfeeds. This includes key details about some of the media's biggest stories, open source intelligence relating to national security, and more. The goal is to keep you informed and prepared.


 

Our 'Out of Focus' segment does not skip a beat (even though news outlets have).


1 Matt Gaetz Investigation


Source: US House Ethics Committee

The House Ethics Committee released a 40-page report detailing their investigation into allegations against Congressman Matt Gaetz. From accusations of sexual misconduct and drug use to misuse of campaign funds and obstructing investigations, the findings are explosive. Despite the evidence, the case was dropped when Gaetz resigned, leaving many questions unanswered. Some of the allegations that were not investigated included Gaetz showing explicit images on the House floor and making suspicious stock trades. Tune in to the episode for a closer look and access to the full report through the link in the description.




2 COVID-19 Chinese Lab Leak Theory is... TRUE?


Former FBI microbiologist Jason Bannon claims evidence was suppressed regarding a Chinese lab leak as the origin of COVID-19. Multiple agencies allegedly presented evidence supporting this theory, but reports were buried. While some are calling for more transparency, others remain skeptical. We break down what this could mean moving forward in the full episode.


3 Rep. Annie Kuster Retires with a BANG


Representative Annie Kuster announced her retirement, citing safety concerns following the January 6th Capitol riot. She also emphasized the need for younger leaders to take charge and push for change. We discuss her bold exit, what it signals for Congress, and how it highlights ongoing political tensions.


4 Rumors of blocking Trump from Taking Office begin to circulate


Rumors are swirling about efforts to block Trump from taking office if re-elected, citing claims of "insurrection." Scholars argue that Trump may be ineligible under the 14th Amendment, but similar attempts have already failed. We examine the legal and political implications of this debate in the full episode.


5 New California Gun Law AB 574 may spread to other states


California’s AB 574 introduces stricter firearm regulations, requiring owners to verify the location and serial numbers of all guns they own. Critics argue this law overreaches, while supporters highlight concerns about arms trafficking and national security risks tied to cartel activity. We break down the implications and controversies in the full episode.


In this segment we discuss news related to health, wellness, and medicine. Sponsored by MB Fitness where you can find a variety of free workout plans!


1 NIH Updates




  • Ralph's Packing Company - Recalling 3,132 pounds of pork and beef bologna due to misbranding and undeclared allergens.

  • Impero Foods & Meats, Inc. - Recalling 7,485 pounds of raw pork sausage due to lack of federal inspection.

  • Nail Factory - Recalling 1,635 pounds of frozen Siluriformes fish due to import violations.

  • FSIS Public Health Alert - Issued for frozen chicken nuggets due to lack of import reinspection (Dino Nuggets).



Source: FDA Recalls
  • Marketside Broccoli Florets - Potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

  • Gardners Candies - Undeclared tree nuts (cashews).

  • Astellas Pharmaceuticals - Bottles may contain empty capsules.

  • Systane Lubricant Eye Drops - Possible fungal contamination.

  • Par Pharmaceutical - Unapproved epinephrine nasal solution.

  • Jose Madrid Salsa - Undeclared Yellow 5 and Yellow 6.

  • Taste of Deutschland Vegetables - Undeclared milk allergens.

  • Orgain Protein Powder - Undeclared peanuts.

  • Lay’s Potato Chips - Possible undeclared milk allergens.

  • Fouzee SugarLin Supplement - Contains undeclared Metformin and Glyburide.



In this segment we discuss interesting topics from fun facts, to philosophical questions and more. This week, we went over 11 interesting brain facts brought to you by Northwestern School of Medicine.



In this segment I unravel the monstrosity that is our false sense of security as well as any other topics to educate and help you be prepared. This isn't "start digging a bunker" type stuff... unless you want to. Sponsored by MB Security; PROTECT. PREVENT. PREVAIL.


1 Al Qaeda 2.0


Former CIA operative Sarah Adams warns about Al Qaeda 2.0 and their plans for coordinated attacks on U.S. soil. With reports of 1,000 operatives already in the U.S., security concerns are at an all-time high. Adams highlights the dangers of decentralized terrorist cells and emphasizes the importance of preparedness. In the episode, I discuss strategies and resources to stay informed and resilient.


References

As always, I include all references used to create these episodes. If you discover something I didn't, or think I misunderstood something feel free to leave a comment below and let me know.

  1. House secretly meets to vote on releasing the Matt Gaetz investigation report. https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-resolution/1609/all-actions

  2. House votes to release documents after a wild debate. https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2024491

  3. Ethics Committee Report on Matt Gaetz w/ attachments. https://ethics.house.gov/press-releases/statement-of-the-committee-on-ethics-regarding-representative-matt-gaetz-2/

  4. Ethics Committee Homepage. https://clerk.house.gov/committees/SO00

  5. CREW sues DOJ for Matt Gaetz investigation documents. https://www.citizensforethics.org/legal-action/lawsuits/crew-sues-doj-for-records-on-matt-gaetz-criminal-investigation/

  6. Matt Gaetz once faced a sex trafficking investigation by the Justice Department he could now lead. https://apnews.com/article/trump-attorney-general-matt-gaetz-justice-department-9d51501fb6ad5c04b5b4113d3a6a584b

  7. NIH News Release: Long term exposure to air pollution linked to blood clots in veins that bring blood to the heart. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/long-term-exposure-air-pollution-linked-blood-clots-veins-bring-blood-heart

  8. Research article: https://ashpublications.org/blood/article/doi/10.1182/blood.2024026399/534404/Air-pollution-is-associated-with-increased-risk-of

  9. NIH News Release: NIH research reveals new insights about how 'bad' cholesterol works in the body https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-research-reveals-new-insights-about-how-bad-cholesterol-works-body

  10. Research article: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08223-0

  11. New California laws going into effect in 2025. https://oag.ca.gov/ogvp/new-firearm-law

  12. USDA Recalls. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls

  13. FDA Recalls. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts

  14. Northwestern Health fun facts: https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/11-fun-facts-about-your-brain

  15. Shawn Ryan Show #149 Sarah Adams. https://shawnryanshow.com/blogs/the-shawn-ryan-show

  16. Shawn Ryan Show #121 Ahmad Massoud. https://shawnryanshow.com/blogs/the-shawn-ryan-show/srs-121-commander-ahmad-massoud-struggling-for-freedom

  17. Al Queda 2.0 Book. https://a.co/d/6TzVUcw

  18. US Sending money to Taliban. https://foreignaffairs.house.gov/press-release/chairman-mccaul-issues-statement-on-sigar-finding-u-s-dollars-funneled-to-taliban/

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