
#2274 - Mike Baker
Mike Baker is a former CIA covert operations officer and current CEO of Portman Square Group, a global intelligence and security firm. He’s also the host of the "President’s Daily Brief" podcast: a twice daily news report on critical events happening around the globe available on all podcast platforms. www.portmansquaregroup.comThis episode is brought to you by AG1.Take ownership of your health with AG1 and get a FREE bottle of Vitamin D3+K2 AND 5 free Travel Packs with your first subscription.Go to drinkag1.com/joeroganDon’t miss out on all the action this week at DraftKings! Download the DraftKings app today! Sign-up using dkng.co/rogan or through my promo code ROGAN.GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD).21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS).1 per new customer. $5+ first-time bet req. Max. $150 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 3/16/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Episodes with Mike Baker
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Key Takeaways
The journey reflects human resilience and teamwork in tough situations.
Such experiences can inspire others to support charitable causes and teamwork.
Facing physical discomfort led to humorous camaraderie among the team.
Humor in adversity can strengthen bonds and create memorable experiences.
The logistical support provided by sponsors is vital for challenging expeditions.
Without sponsors, such treks in harsh environments would be nearly impossible.
Communities in remote areas often lack essential resources like clean water.
Highlighting the need for sustainable solutions in water-scarce regions.
Concerns about grifters in the DEI space undermine genuine efforts.
This highlights the challenges faced by well-intentioned initiatives in a crowded field.
Episode Timestamps
Mike Baker Shares Experience of Epic Camel Trek for Charity
- Baker recounts a challenging journey across impassable deserts for special forces charity.
- The team faced extreme weather conditions and physical challenges during the trek.
- Humor emerges in discussions about camel riding and discomfort experienced.
Exploring Challenges and Support in Desolate Environments
- Land Rover's support was crucial for a long trek in inhospitable terrain.
- The importance of basic supplies like water and food during the journey.
- Challenges faced by participants reflect broader social issues regarding funding and support.
Discussion on DEI, Corruption, and Financial Accountability
- The podcast critiques the DEI industry's potential grifting and inefficiencies.
- Concerns are raised about untraceable government spending and lack of accountability.
- Current events highlight the intersection of finance and emerging technologies like cryptocurrencies.
Discussion on Wealth, Governance, and Historical Insights
- Wealth perceptions lead to comparisons among billionaires like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos.
- Concerns about government access to private information highlight issues of trust.
- Historical context of Genghis Khan provides a lens to view modern leadership.
Discussion on CNN's Role and Progressive Politics in Society
- Kevin O'Leary's perspective on cutting waste in failing companies like CNN.
- Concerns about the intersection of LGBTQ+ rights and women's safety in bathrooms.
- The impact of AI on authenticity and deep fakes in media.
Exploring Political Perspectives on Immigration and Global Relations
- Discussion on the changing perceptions of U.S. political sentiments abroad.
- Concerns about immigration policies and their implications on national security.
- Humorous takes on sports rivalries and cultural interactions between the U.S. and Canada.
Discussion on Israeli-Palestinian Conflict and U.S. Involvement
- The October 7 attacks disrupted normalization talks between Saudi Arabia and Israel.
- Hamas's actions and the Palestinian Authority's role complicate the peace process.
- The need for Arab states to take responsibility for Palestinian welfare is emphasized.
Analysis of geopolitical dynamics and the role of foreign influence
- Hamas's tactics involve urban warfare and civilian casualties for strategic advantage.
- The Iranian regime is seen as a primary instigator of regional instability.
- U.S. foreign policy historically influences global governance through various interventions.
Analysis of International Relations and CIA Operations
- Discussion focuses on historical CIA operations and their impact on international relations.
- Criticism of USAID's role in promoting U.S. interests abroad is highlighted.
- The importance of reviewing government programs and their effectiveness is emphasized.
Government Efficiency and Current Issues Discussed in Podcast
- Discussion on government efficiency and its impact on current issues.
- Concerns raised about egg prices and their political implications.
- Historical references made regarding past crises like mad cow disease.
Exploring the Mysteries of Michael Rockefeller's Disappearance
- The investigation into Michael Rockefeller’s disappearance reveals unsettling historical truths.
- Controversial findings about cannibalism in the region complicate the narrative.
- Discussion touches on modern government secrecy and public perception.
Concerns Over Social Security and Immigration Benefits
- Discussion highlights issues with outdated programming affecting Social Security data.
- Concerns raised about the qualification process for long-term disability benefits.
- Controversial claims made about immigrant eligibility for Social Security benefits.
Debate on U.S. Foreign Policy and Global Influence
- Discussion on the complexities of U.S. foreign aid and intervention.
- Critique of various administrations' approaches to national security.
- Exploration of the changing dynamics in international relations.
Corruption and Fraud in Ukraine's Military Spending Discussed
- Discussion centered on the $100 billion aid to Ukraine and its implications.
- Concerns raised about corruption and mismanagement of funds in Ukraine.
- Comparison made between Ukraine's situation and past U.S. military spending.
Discussion on Technology, Wildlife, and Human Interaction
- The inability to remember phone numbers reflects changing communication habits.
- The reintroduction of wolves raises ecological and social concerns.
- Human encounters with wildlife often lead to dangerous situations and misunderstandings.
Exploring the Mysteries of JFK Assassination Documents
- Discussion centers on the release and implications of JFK assassination documents.
- Speculation about potential incriminating evidence and redactions in released files.
- Concerns about intelligence community's handling of Lee Harvey Oswald's case.
Exploring Conspiracy Theories Surrounding Historical Assassinations
- Discussion centers on the conspiracies related to JFK and MLK assassinations.
- Participants express skepticism about the release of government documents.
- Insights into the potential involvement of federal agencies in these events.
Discussion on Mind Control, Technology, and Government Secrecy
- Podcast explores allegations of brain control technology used by a Chinese company.
- Discussion includes skepticism about mind control claims and government transparency.
- Dialogue touches on historical parallels with MKUltra and current events like UFO hearings.
People Mentioned
Mike Baker
Former CIA Operative, Adventurer
Howard Craig
Expedition planner
Jamie
Support team member
Elon Musk
CEO of Tesla and SpaceX
Jeff Bezos
Founder of Amazon
Kevin O'Leary
Entrepreneur, Business Analyst, Media Personality
J.D. Vance
Politician
Hamas
Militant organization, Political and militant organization
Palestinian Authority
Governing body of the Palestinian territories
Iranian regime
Government
John Brennan
Former CIA Director
Rockefeller's Nephew
Historical figure in anecdote
Michael Rockefeller
Adventurer, Heir
Unnamed Speaker
Podcast Host or Guest
Tucker Carlson
Media Personality
Unknown
Podcaster
Lee Harvey Oswald
Assassin of JFK, Alleged assassin of JFK
James Earl Ray
Assassin of MLK
Feng Jin Zhu-Zhi
CEO of Quan De Investment
Places Mentioned
Saudi Arabia
Country
Jordan
Country
Al-Waj
Geographical location
Aqaba
City
Germany
Country
Canada
Country
Gaza
Region
Indonesian archipelago
Region
Moscow
City
Books Mentioned
Chaos
Tom O'Neill
Notable Quotes
"Camel riding training? That's exactly what I did."
Discussing preparation for the camel trek.
"Blisters are a real thing."
Talking about the physical challenges of riding camels.
"Imagine without them. Oh, would – impossible, still schlepping."
Discussing the importance of logistical support.
"Even price of a cup coffee makes huge difference people."
Talking about donations to support veterans.
"I think there's a lot of grifters, too, unfortunately."
Discussing the DEI industry's integrity.