In this episode of Divulgence, we welcome author, political commentator, and longtime radio host Charles Goyette for an eye-opening conversation about the American military empire, the deep state, nuclear war, government deception, and the dangerous consequences of imperial overstretch. Charles joins us to discuss his latest book, Empire of Lies: Fragments from the Memory Hole, which examines how governments, intelligence agencies, and mainstream media have shaped public perception, concealed uncomfortable truths, and helped lead America into devastating wars. Drawing on decades of experience in broadcasting, investigative commentary, and his work alongside Ron Paul, Charles explains why understanding the hidden history of American foreign policy is essential to understanding where the country is headed. We revisit some of the most controversial events in modern American history, including the assassination of John F. Kennedy, the Gulf of Tonkin incident, the Vietnam War, and the mysterious 1996 crash of TWA Flight 800. Charles challenges official narratives, raises questions about intelligence operations and alleged cover-ups, and explores how historical events can be used to manufacture public support for military intervention. Our discussion then turns to the Middle East, examining the CIA-backed overthrow of Iran's government in 1953, the rise of the Shah, the Iranian Revolution, America's complicated relationship with Saddam Hussein, and the disastrous consequences of the Iraq War. With the ongoing Iran conflict raising fears of a much wider confrontation, we discuss Donald Trump's foreign policy, the influence of Israel, the threat of nuclear escalation, and whether American leadership truly understands the conflicts it continues to enter. We also explore allegations of political corruption and financial profiteering, including suspiciously timed oil-market trades, Trump's Truth Social announcements, the Trump family's financial interests, missing funds from the Iraq War, and the persistent lack of financial accountability within Washington and the Pentagon. Charles introduces us to a fascinating concept he calls "combat envy"—the tendency of influential media personalities and supposed national security experts to exaggerate or fabricate their military experiences. Through examples, we examine how sensationalism, personal ambition, and questionable credibility can influence public attitudes toward war. Finally, we touch on imperial overstretch, the historical pattern in which powerful empires expand beyond their ability to sustain themselves, often resorting to increasingly desperate measures as their influence declines. Is the United States following the same trajectory as the great empires of the past? And could its pursuit of global military dominance ultimately threaten its own prosperity, stability, and future? We also touch on Charles's broadcasting career, his opposition to the Iraq War, his experiences with Clear Channel, and an unexpected connection to Howard Stern. Join us for an extensive discussion about the deep state, the American empire, nuclear tensions, media credibility, political corruption, and the possibility that history is repeating itself in ways we cannot afford to ignore. Charles Goyette's latest book, Empire of Lies: Fragments from the Memory Hole, is available on Amazon. PLEASE support the show and simply subscribe to the Divulgence channel on YouTube (Superchats and other tip options now available), Rumble (tip jar now available), Spotify and/or wherever you get your podcasts. Please drop a 5-star review, a thumbs up, and/or a nice comment - help us grow and spread the word! Allow this great new show to enhance your repertoire (and your interests), and allow me and my guests to pump your head with new and interesting knowledge! *LISTENERS AND VIEWERS CAN RECEIVE A DISCOUNT FROM THE SCOTT HORTON ACADEMY! Scott is a regular guest and a great author, researcher, and speaker! Enjoy Scott Horton and his knowledge like you never have before and enjoy long-form classes from Scott and others, beautifully organized in a method that allows the tracking of class progression and availability. Enjoy topics such as U.S. foreign policy (and its history), the Middle East, the war between Russia and Ukraine, 9/11, and MUCH more - new classes regularly added. For an exclusive discount ONLY for our listeners and viewers, go to: https://scotthortonacademy.com/divulgence **We are now also affiliated with Ole Dammeguard and The Dammeguardian Experience! Ole has been on the show once so far, but will for sure be back! He is a great author, researcher, peace maker, and expert in false flag and investigation research. When available, Divulgence viewers and listeners will receive exclusive discount to Ole's offering. In the meantime, go to https://lightonconspiracies.com/ to receive a FREE copy of his 2-volume book 'Coup D'etat in Slow Motion'.
