Deep Dive with Shawn

Sea Tree Media
  • 4.3（15則評分）
  • 社會與文化
  • 每週更新

Welcome to Deep Dive, the podcast where politics, history, and queer lives intersect in engaging, in-depth conversations. I'm Dr. Shawn C. Fettig, a political scientist, and I've crafted this show to go beyond the headlines, diving into the heart of critical issues with authors, researchers, activists, and politicians. Forget surface-level analysis; we're here for the real stories, the hidden layers, and the nuanced discussions that matter. Join me as we explore the intricate world of governance, democracy, and global stability. Expect empathy, unique perspectives, and thought-provoking dialogue—no punditry, just genuine insights.Ready to dive in? Catch us on your favorite podcast platform, and don't forget to follow the conversation: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/deepdivewithshawn.bsky.socialYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjZ9grY02HMCUR34qaWhNmQGot thoughts? Questions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com."Deep Dive" - Because the most important conversations happen below the surface.

  1. 8月24日

    Dead Democracy Walking: A Farewell (w/ Dr. Sara Benesh)

    Send us a text What does it feel like to watch democracy crumble in real time? In this raw, deeply personal conversation that marks the (maybe) final episode of Deep Dive, host Shawn C. Fettig and political scientist Dr. Sara Benesh confront the terrifying reality of America's democratic collapse and our collective failure to respond. After three and a half years of weekly episodes, Fettig explains his decision to step back from punditry about how bad things are and pivot toward developing content focused on effective resistance strategies. This shift comes from a growing recognition that simply documenting democracy's decline isn't enough—we need functional approaches to countering authoritarianism. The conversation takes an unexpectedly intimate turn as both participants share their struggles to reconcile everyday life with the knowledge of ongoing atrocities. "I'm taking on this new job, figuring out where my son will go to college... and I'm like, but Gaza is starving. What does any of this stuff matter?" This cognitive dissonance mirrors what many Americans feel as they continue normal routines while democracy erodes around them. Drawing powerful parallels to Nazi Germany, they explore memoirs of Germans who rationalized continuing ordinary life during Hitler's rise. The most chilling insight: "Those who were pessimistic survived because they saw what was coming and took active measures... those who were optimistic died." Are we making the same mistakes? The discussion reveals the paralyzing collective action problem at democracy's heart—those least directly affected by authoritarianism must lead resistance efforts, yet they're precisely the ones with the most comfort to lose. Our commodified, distraction-filled lives make mobilization nearly impossible. Rather than ending in despair, Fettig and Benesh suggest a new path forward: looking not just to failed democracies for lessons, but to successful resistance movements throughout history, including America's founding generation who overthrew tyranny and built something new. The question remains: will enough of us recognize this historical moment before it's too late? ------------------------- Follow Deep Dive: Bluesky YouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

    45 分鐘
  2. Leaving America E12: Taxation without Representation and Renunciation

    8月17日

    Leaving America E12: Taxation without Representation and Renunciation

    Send us a text The invisible chain that follows every American abroad isn't nostalgia—it's the IRS. Unlike citizens of virtually every other nation, Americans must file tax returns no matter where they build their lives, creating a bureaucratic burden that turns paradise into paperwork. This final episode of Leaving America dives deep into the unique tax situation facing U.S. citizens abroad. We explore the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion that shields most expats from actually paying U.S. taxes, but doesn't protect them from the annual filing requirement. We unpack FATCA—the law that turned Americans into toxic banking clients by forcing foreign financial institutions to report directly to the IRS or face severe penalties. Many expats now pay thousands to accountants just to file zero-balance returns. For some, this perpetual tether becomes too much to bear, leading to citizenship renunciation—the ultimate step in cutting ties with America. We walk through this process step by step: the $2,350 fee, the embassy appointment, the potential "exit tax" for higher-net-worth individuals, and what happens to Social Security and Medicare benefits afterward. Is freedom from IRS paperwork worth giving up your blue passport? Throughout the episode, experts like Tim Marting from Citizen Remote, David Lesperance from Lesperance Associates, Adrian Leeds from House Hunters International, and Basil Mohr-Elzeki from Henley & Partners offer insights on navigating these complex waters. We close with reflections from expats who've found their homes abroad, whether they've kept their U.S. citizenship or decided to let it go. Featuring: Tim Marting David Lesperance Basil Mohr-Elzeki Matt Wilson Karen McCann Richard McColl Tim Leffell Adrian Leeds ------------------------- Follow Deep Dive: Bluesky YouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

    44 分鐘
  3. Leaving America E11: Spotlight on South Africa!

    8月10日

    Leaving America E11: Spotlight on South Africa!

    Send us a text What if the perfect expat destination for Americans isn't Portugal or Costa Rica, but South Africa? A country where your dollars stretch four times further, world-class healthcare costs pennies on the dollar, and English is widely spoken across breathtaking landscapes from cosmopolitan Cape Town to the wild savannas. South Africa represents a compelling paradox for potential American expats. The affordability is staggering—nice apartments from $430-1100 monthly, excellent wine under $5, and private doctor visits for $20—creating luxury-level living on modest budgets. Yet this financial advantage exists alongside complex social dynamics, occasional infrastructure challenges, and a bureaucracy that moves at its own distinctive pace. This episode breaks down everything Americans need to know about relocating to South Africa: multiple visa pathways for retirees, remote workers, entrepreneurs and skilled professionals; the remarkable two-tier healthcare system; cultural integration in a country with eleven official languages; safety considerations beyond the headlines; and paths to permanent residency. Through conversation with American expat Heather Mason, who has lived in Johannesburg for 15 years, we explore both practical details and the intangible rewards that keep expatriates in South Africa long-term. Is South Africa right for everyone? Absolutely not. But for Americans seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life, who value natural beauty and cultural richness over perfect infrastructure, and who approach new experiences with patience and openness—this overlooked destination might just be the answer.  Featuring: Heather Mason ------------------------- Follow Deep Dive: Bluesky YouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

    39 分鐘
  4. Leaving America E10: The Golden Passports - Citizenship by Investment and by Lineage

    8月3日

    Leaving America E10: The Golden Passports - Citizenship by Investment and by Lineage

    Send us a text The American passport was once considered the gold standard of global mobility. Today, a growing number of US citizens are seeking second citizenship as insurance against political instability, rights erosion, and uncertainty. This episode delves into the legitimate, legal pathways to obtaining additional passports through Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. We explore how certain countries—particularly in the Caribbean—offer full citizenship in exchange for financial contributions starting around $100,000. These aren't shadowy deals but government-sanctioned programs that bring critical development funding to small nations while providing investors with powerful travel documents, rights, and options. Our expert guests David Lesperance and Basil Elzecki explain how St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Dominica lead this market with varying advantages: prestige, family value, and affordability respectively. The conversation isn't just theoretical—it's grounded in real concerns facing Americans today. Political polarization has transformed citizenship planning from a billionaire's luxury to practical preparation. As Lesperance frames it, "You live in a political wildfire zone," making second citizenship a form of "fire insurance" when facing uncertain futures. The evidence? Americans have become the #1 applicants for these programs worldwide, with applications surging 300% during recent political upheavals. For those without six-figure investment funds, we also examine citizenship by descent—the possibility that your Irish grandmother, Italian grandfather, or German Jewish ancestors might already entitle you to a powerful EU passport without any investment at all. This ancestral connection could be your most accessible pathway to global mobility. Whether you're concerned about political targeting, seeking enhanced travel freedom, or simply creating options for future generations, understanding these pathways isn't about abandoning America—it's about securing choices in an increasingly unpredictable world. Featuring: Basil Mohr-Elzeki David Lesperance ------------------------- Follow Deep Dive: Bluesky YouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

    1 小時
  5. Leaving America E9: Spotlight on New Zealand!

    7月27日

    Leaving America E9: Spotlight on New Zealand!

    Send us a text Ever fantasized about leaving America's polarized politics for New Zealand's pristine landscapes? Before you pack your bags for Middle Earth, listen to the unfiltered truth from two expats who took the leap without ever visiting first. My husband, Pavel, returns and we chat with our friends Alex and Andy, who each moved to New Zealand, and reveal what actually happens when you trade global chaos for Kiwi calm. Their stories expose surprising realities about life in New Zealand – from the genuine shock of walking out of a hospital without paying a cent to the refreshingly straightforward tax system that eliminates the annual stress of filing returns. The conversation tackles everything from employment security and distinctive Kiwi communication styles to the significant challenges of being a 30+ hour flight away from family emergencies. Beyond the stunning scenery that captured Peter Jackson's imagination lies a functioning democracy where innovative engineering thrives in isolation. The "figure it out" mentality has created a culture that values practical problem-solving over specialization, while also embracing a more relaxed attitude toward perfectionism. Want a perfectly manicured lawn? New Zealanders couldn't care less. But it's not all smooth sailing in this distant paradise. Alex and Andy candidly address the reality of being on "an island at the bottom of the Pacific" – the reduced availability of international products (particularly Mexican food), the higher-than-expected cost of living, and the genuine isolation that comes with this geographic remoteness. Whether you're seriously considering a move abroad or just curious about alternative living arrangements in uncertain times, this episode offers practical insights and unexpected perspectives on finding your place in a country that values calm over chaos and community over culture wars.  ------------------------- Follow Deep Dive: Bluesky YouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

    1 小時 2 分鐘
  6. Leaving America E8: The English-Speakers - Canada, Australia, and New Zealand

    7月20日

    Leaving America E8: The English-Speakers - Canada, Australia, and New Zealand

    Send us a text When Americans consider moving abroad, one of the first questions is often "Can I go somewhere where they speak English?" But, it's not just about avoiding language barriers—it's about finding a place where cultural references, legal systems, and core values feel somewhat familiar during an otherwise challenging transition. Canada, Australia, and New Zealand offer exactly that comfort zone with the added benefits of universal healthcare, stronger social safety nets, and political environments that many find increasingly appealing as American politics grows more divisive. These countries consistently rank among the world's highest for quality of life, environmental standards, and personal safety. They're not utopias, but for many Americans, they represent stability in uncertain times. The reality check? These countries operate sophisticated immigration systems designed to select newcomers based on what they bring to the table economically. Each uses a points-based framework that rewards youth, education, professional experience in high-demand fields, and language proficiency. These systems aren't random—they're strategically crafted to address domestic labor shortages and demographic challenges. The good news: all three countries allow dual citizenship, meaning Americans don't have to surrender their US passports. The challenging news: desire alone isn't enough—you need to match what these countries are seeking. For professionals under 40-45 with college degrees working in healthcare, IT, engineering, education or skilled trades, doors open more easily. For others, creative pathways might be necessary, potentially including study, entrepreneurship, or family connections. Featuring: Brandon Miller Aaron Martin ------------------------- Follow Deep Dive: Bluesky YouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

    59 分鐘
  7. Leaving America E7: Spotlight on The Philippines!

    7月13日

    Leaving America E7: Spotlight on The Philippines!

    Send us a text What happens when a three-month vacation accidentally becomes a 15-month immersion into island life? For Heidi and Tony, being stranded in the Philippines during the early pandemic lockdowns wasn't just an inconvenience – it became a transformative lesson in what truly matters. In this conversation, we discover how a small Philippine island with unreliable electricity, occasional water shortages, and zero Amazon delivery options became a paradise of sorts. The couple shares how they adapted to "island time," where urgency dissolves and community connections take priority over convenience. Rather than feeling deprived by limited resources, they found themselves liberated from the constant pressure of American consumer culture. "We used to talk about new seasons on Netflix," Tony explains. "When we're on the island, we're excited because mango season is coming, or dragon fruit season, or passion fruit season." This shift from digital consumption to natural cycles reveals just how deeply our relationship with time, food, and community can change when we step away from convenience culture. Beyond the practical challenges of conducting business from a time zone opposite the US or figuring out how to ship orthodontic supplies to a remote island, Heidi and Tony discovered something more profound – the creative spark that ignites when you can't simply buy a solution. Cooking became a daily challenge with limited ingredients and just two gas burners. Art shifted from digital to hands-on crafts using available materials. Every interaction with neighbors, market vendors, and local families built meaningful connections that sustained them. Their story raises powerful questions about what we trade for convenience in America. As Heidi notes, "I love island life. I'd take the lack of water, lack of electricity, lack of internet any day over being overwhelmed with choice." Could it be that in gaining instant access to everything, we've lost something essential to human happiness? ------------------------- Follow Deep Dive: Bluesky YouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

    1 小時 2 分鐘
  8. Leaving America E6: The Digital Nomad Life - Southeast Asia

    7月6日

    Leaving America E6: The Digital Nomad Life - Southeast Asia

    Send us a text The digital nomad movement has evolved from a fringe lifestyle into a global phenomenon, with Southeast Asia emerging as its undisputed headquarters. This episode explores the realities of remote work in paradise, cutting through Instagram filters to reveal what actually awaits Americans seeking escape through digital nomad visas. We break down the distinct flavors of nomad life across four key destinations. Bali offers spiritual sanctuary amid rice fields and infinity pools, where $2,000 monthly buys a lifestyle that would cost quintuple in California. Thailand provides both Bangkok's electric energy and Chiang Mai's peaceful mountain retreats, with world-class healthcare. Malaysia quietly delivers perhaps the region's most straightforward digital nomad visa alongside modern infrastructure and multicultural richness. Meanwhile, the Philippines compensates for infrastructure challenges with unmatched friendliness and cultural accessibility for Americans. Beyond the practical aspects of visas, accommodation, and Wi-Fi speeds, we dive into the deeper emotional journey of disconnecting from American expectations. Expert guests – from long-term digital nomads to immigration specialists – share insights on building community abroad, navigating cultural differences, and handling the inevitable complexities of transient relationships. They address the tension between enjoying paradise and respecting local communities, offering guidance on responsible nomadism that avoids contributing to gentrification. Featuring: Chris Dodd  Tim Marting David Lesperance Richard McColl Chawadee Nualkhair ------------------------- Follow Deep Dive: Bluesky YouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

    1 小時 6 分鐘
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預告片

4.3
（滿分 5 顆星）
15 則評分

簡介

Welcome to Deep Dive, the podcast where politics, history, and queer lives intersect in engaging, in-depth conversations. I'm Dr. Shawn C. Fettig, a political scientist, and I've crafted this show to go beyond the headlines, diving into the heart of critical issues with authors, researchers, activists, and politicians. Forget surface-level analysis; we're here for the real stories, the hidden layers, and the nuanced discussions that matter. Join me as we explore the intricate world of governance, democracy, and global stability. Expect empathy, unique perspectives, and thought-provoking dialogue—no punditry, just genuine insights.Ready to dive in? Catch us on your favorite podcast platform, and don't forget to follow the conversation: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/deepdivewithshawn.bsky.socialYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjZ9grY02HMCUR34qaWhNmQGot thoughts? Questions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com."Deep Dive" - Because the most important conversations happen below the surface.

資訊

  • 創作者
    Sea Tree Media
  • 活躍年代
    2022年 - 2025年
  • 集數
    150
  • 年齡分級
    兒少適宜
  • 版權
    © 2025 Deep Dive with Shawn
  • 節目網站
    Deep Dive with Shawn

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