Best Darker Projects Podcasts (2025)

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Who Should Reproduce? The Politics of Family Planning in the Trump Era 58:23

Play Pause

4d ago58:23

58:23

The U.S. birth rate is falling, and the Trump administration has a solution: Make. More. Babies. But instead of expanding support for families—through childcare, reproductive healthcare access, or paid leave—they’re turning to policies touted by a set of right-wing members of a movement called pronatalism, which includes Christian nationalists and …

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How Project 2025 Is Rewriting America - Phase II 52:47

18d ago52:47

52:47

Project 2025 is no longer just a blueprint—it is rapidly in motion. Over the past four months, the Republicans have begun implementing its sweeping, 900+ page plan to transform America into a Christian nationalist state. We are seeing it unfold in real time: attacks on bodily autonomy, the dehumanization and targeting of immigrants, the erasure of …

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The Real Power of Protest: How We Fight Back and Win 1:06:54

25d ago1:06:54

1:06:54

There is nothing more toxic to tyranny than those willing to fight back. Across the country, every day Americans are exercising their First Amendment rights and raising their voice in protest against this dangerous administration and the right-wing autocrats who lead it. Emerging leaders are standing up for their values and running for office in th…

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Rachel Maddow on Winning America’s Fight Against Fascism 58:03

1M ago58:03

58:03

In the first 100 days of the Trump Administration, we’ve watched Republicans erode American democracy with alarming speed. While this political moment may feel unprecedented, it isn’t new. America has dealt its share of far-right movements, fascist provocateurs, and anti-democratic threats. But time and again, heroes have risen to meet those moment…

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Eps XXIII The Pouring 43:00

1M ago43:00

43:00

Not all lies are spoken. Some get buried. This week, James follows a lead back to the last place anyone wants to look. The timelines aren’t lining up. The money’s still unaccounted for. And the one thing no one thought would be questioned... might need to be ripped open.

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100 Days That Shook the World: How Trump and the GOP Broke America’s Role in Global Leadership 1:04:44

1M ago1:04:44

1:04:44

In just 100 days, Donald Trump and the Republican Party have upended the post WWII international order. From pulling out of the WHO to undermining international courts, backing away from NATO to slashing foreign aid, this generation’s GOP is rapidly dismantling America's role as a global leader. In this episode, Stacey looks beyond U.S. borders and…

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Eps XXII Sticky Truth 1:00:57

1M ago1:00:57

1:00:57

Two polygraphs. Two promises of truth. But when the tests ended, the real deception began. One passed. One failed. Neither told the full story. In this explosive chapter, James confronts Howard Wheeler with proof his airtight alibi was a fabrication, and catches it all unfolding in real time. Meanwhile, Rachel Barton’s collapse after her failed tes…

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Eps XXI Recap 3 Part 2 57:56

2M ago57:56

57:56

In Part 2 of Recap Episode 3, Chloe joins James to tackle your biggest questions about the Apple Health data featured in two of the latest episodes. You had a lot to say — and even more to ask. Together, they revisit key movements, clarify confusing moments, and dig deeper into what the data might really be telling us. Thank you listeners, for your…

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How the Right’s War on Academic Freedom Hides a Darker Mission 55:30

2M ago55:30

55:30

One of the Republican Party’s most dangerous campaigns is their continued assault on academic freedom. Under the pretense of fighting antisemitism and dismantling “discriminatory” DEI policies, universities across the country are under threat of losing critical funding, and students are being targeted by immigration authorities. From Trump to state…

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Eps XXI Recap 3 Part 1 57:35

2M ago57:35

57:35

You called, texted, and commented — and now it’s time to respond. In this first half of Recap Episode 3, James dives into your questions, clears up confusion, and sets the record straight on a few key moments from the last several episodes. From theories to timelines, nothing’s off-limits. Part 2 drops soon — but for now, let’s unpack what’s been k…

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Breaking America's Economy: Unpacking Trump's Tariff War 1:09:15

2M ago1:09:15

1:09:15

Trump’s unhinged, unpredictable global trade war is causing chaos and confusion. In just one week, the President announced tariffs on the entire world, then paused some, upped others, and announced exemptions for certain goods. This capriciousness has sparked fears that another economic recession may be looming. In this episode, Stacey is joined by…

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Eps XX Console to Chaos 1:05:02

2M ago1:05:02

1:05:02

In episode XX we hear more from Danner; his thoughts on the voicemail, his take on Rachael seeing Shane on the morning of the 9th, and his where his perspective is at today. Does he still feel suicide is what happened to his Dad on March 9, 2023? Or does he feel differently now that he's heard episodes play out? Tune in as Danner and James delve in…

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Lessons from Ryan Holiday: How to Stay Grounded in Turbulent Times 59:09

2M ago59:09

59:09

Whether your instinct now is fight or flight, many of us are searching for the way to navigate these turbulent times. In this episode, Stacey shares her practice of stoicism: an ancient philosophy built to make us more resilient, knowledgeable and grounded in the face of adversity. She’s joined by author, entrepreneur, and host of The Daily Stoic p…

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Eps XIX The Last Dance 34:30

2M ago34:30

34:30

In episode XIX, we follow Shane's final known movements—captured minute by minute through digital footprints. From a seemingly quiet morning to mysterious short-distance pings, an unexplained phone call, and one last piece of recorded information at 10:37a, this data-driven deep dive brings us closer to understanding Shane’s last steps before he va…

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The Rise of Bad Medicine and Anti-Vaxxers: Combatting Trump’s Health Agenda 51:39

2M ago51:39

51:39

Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kennedy's so-called assault on medical science is putting Americans at grave risk. Measles has resurfaced, HHS is losing tens of thousands of staff, and medical research at the National Institutes of Health is being cut. Stacey is joined by infectious disease researcher and science communicator Laur…

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Eps XVIII Project Pulse 58:06

2M ago58:06

58:06

n this episode, we explore new information in the disappearance of Shane Barton, brought to light through the help of technology. For the first time, we’re able to walk you through the movements of both Shane and Rachael the day before Shane vanished. What you learn in this episode may challenge your perspective—or confirm what you’ve believed all …

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Defying the Courts: Trump's Legal Battles and Our Fight for Justice 1:02:06

2M ago1:02:06

1:02:06

The Trump Administration is openly defying the courts, racking up over 100 federal lawsuits due to its tyrannical actions. Trump and his allies have continuously sidestepped and ignored federal judges issuing multiple injunctions to reign in his power. From flouting a judge’s order to reverse the deportation of 250 Venezuelan immigrants without due…

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How John Legend Learned To Forgive His Mother (From Your Mama's Kitchen) 43:42

3M ago43:42

43:42

Sharing another podcast we can’t get enough of: Your Mama’s Kitchen. It’s a show about cuisine and culture, ingredients and identities, and the meals and memories that make us who we are. Host Michele Norris talks to Michelle Obama, Glennon Doyle, Gayle King and so many other guests about the complexities of family life and how their earliest culin…

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Why Trump’s Attack on Veterans Weakens America 59:50

3M ago59:50

59:50

Our nation’s veterans are being disproportionately impacted by the Trump administration’s assault on government agencies, from cuts to the VA, to job and funding reductions across the board. Not only have Republicans turned their backs on those who have dedicated themselves to serving our country, they are also doing damage to a constituency that w…

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Decoding Trump’s Address to Congress w/ Jen Psaki 1:03:21

3M ago1:03:21

1:03:21

Trump’s speech to a joint chamber of Congress was the longest in history, clocking in at nearly 100 minutes. Instead of providing viable solutions to problems like our affordability crisis or the current trade war , he used his platform to push his ongoing dangerous narrative on immigration, crime, and transgender rights. Stacey is joined by Jen Ps…

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Eps XVII The $50k Promise 1:08:37

3M ago1:08:37

1:08:37

A key conversation with BT sheds light on Shane's financial struggles, potential drug trade connections, and a mysterious $50,000 deal that may have been his way out. Questions arise about missing money, hidden stashes, and whether Shane's phone being shut off played a role in his fate. As tensions start to mount, new revelations challenge the time…

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Trump’s Crypto Presidency: What It Means For You 1:00:21

3M ago1:00:21

1:00:21

President Trump’s affinity for crypto currency has emerged as another vehicle for profit and peddling influence. On today’s episode, we break down the basics of crypto and how the industry infiltrated Trump's world, unpacks the ways this administration is creating a friendly environment for this unregulated market in ways that might impact our econ…

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Eps XVI Missing Person Report 1:28:22

4M ago1:28:22

1:28:22

For the first time ever, you’ll hear the unreleased recordings from the morning of March 9th, 2023, when Rachael Barton reported her husband, Shane Barton, missing. These are the exact words she gave to law enforcement that day. What did she say? What details did she leave out? And more importantly—how do her statements compare to what she told me …

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Don’t Let Trump’s Cuts Destroy the Government That Works For You 52:47

4M ago52:47

52:47

Another week, another Trump admin scheme to cripple the government—this time by targeting the very workers who keep it running, from food inspectors to mail carriers to those serving in our military. On today’s episode, Stacey breaks down Trump’s mass firing of probationary government employees and how these layoffs could soon ripple across entire …

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Eps XV Nose Down, Tail Up 1:14:00

4M ago1:14:00

1:14:00

A storm looms over Scatter View, thunder rolling in like an omen. The road is slick, the trees towering, the night swallowing everything in its path. Somewhere in the chaos, a story is unraveling—twisting, slipping through fingers like a memory half-remembered. A voicemail surfaces, buried and forgotten. A message that shouldn’t be missing—gone fro…

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How Trump Is Selling Out America to Elon Musk 56:14

4M ago56:14

56:14

A league of unextraordinary gentlemen has taken over the White House. This week, Stacey breaks down how Donald Trump has allowed Elon Musk and his squad of young DOGE staffers to have unprecedented access to the federal government. Wired editor Leah Feiger joins Stacey to explain how she and her team of reporters uncovered how DOGE infiltrated the …

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S4 Eps XIV: Reflections 1:24:51

4M ago1:24:51

1:24:51

In this episode, James sits down with Rachael to revisit the details of Shane’s disappearance. As they walk through the events of that day, we're left to wonder—does Rachael’s story hold up, or are there subtle shifts in her account? New revelations surface during the interview, shedding light on aspects of the case that had remained in the shadows…

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How To Fight Trump’s Anti-American Agenda on Immigration and Refugees 1:00:06

4M ago1:00:06

1:00:06

Trump's immigration crackdown is in full force. Three weeks in, he’s signed 10 executive orders targeting everyone from migrants attempting to cross the border to refugees seeking asylum from their war-torn countries. This week, Stacey Abrams dives deep with two expert guests. Nayna Gupta, Director of Policy at the American Immigration Council, bre…

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Eps XIII.2 BoP Custody 25:06

4M ago25:06

25:06

In this bonus episode, part 2 of episode 13, James sits down with someone who has, until now, remained somewhat elusive—Nathan Wheeler, the brother of Howard Wheeler. Nathan speaks out for the first time, addressing the frustration of having his name tangled in speculation surrounding Shane Barton's disappearance. He sets the record straight, expla…

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Eps XIII: Haunted House or Hilton? 58:20

4M ago58:20

58:20

🚀 Boost your focus, energy, and creativity with Magic Mind – the ultimate productivity shot! Whether you’re diving into deep work or need a mental edge, this nootropic blend has your back. ✨ Get 45% OFF your first purchase when you order now! Just head to ⁠https://www.magicmind.com/hideandseekjan⁠ and start optimizing your day. Don’t miss out—your …

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Cory Booker On Winning the Messaging War Against Trump with Radical Empathy 54:35

4M ago54:35

54:35

President Donald Trump’s first 100 days are well underway, implementing ruthless and legally questionable executive orders, eviscerating American political norms, and filling government positions with loyalists. This week, Stacey Abrams speaks to Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey, who speaks unabashedly about why Democrats must strive to reach more…

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Eps XII: The Vanishing Act 48:09

4M ago48:09

48:09

For a limited time only, you can grab 45% OFF your first Magic Mind purchase through this exclusive link: magicmind.com/hideandseekjan When a neighbor spots a car speeding away at the crack of dawn, it seems like a fleeting detail—until it doesn’t. As James digs into the case, the lines blur between memory and reality. Was it a blue sedan, or was i…

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Defeating Trump’s Chaos Playbook with Our New Age of Insistence 1:00:38

5M ago1:00:38

1:00:38

Donald Trump has been inaugurated for a second term as President, and the “blitzkrieg” of orders, insults and rhetoric has already begun. Stacey Abrams speaks to Melissa Murray, host of Crooked’s legal podcast Strict Scrutiny and constitutional law professor at NYU, about how much Trump can actually do unilaterally and why his actions–like his orde…

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XI: The Message Unread 45:24

5M ago45:24

45:24

The clock ticks in the shadows as secrets claw their way to the surface. In this gripping chapter of Hide and Seek, James (Baysinger) plunges into the chaos surrounding Shane Barton's disappearance, unraveling a story where every answer spawns two more questions. The text messages, the arguments, the desperate pleas—they all carry the weight of som…

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Why DEI Scares Trump and Project 2025 and Why It Should 56:02

5M ago56:02

56:02

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is being weaponized by Donald Trump and Project 2025 and right-wing activists. That's because DEI has been around since the start of the country, opening doors of opportunity for millions of Americans, correcting past wrongs, and, crucially, benefiting everyone. In this episode, Stacey Abrams speaks with Kenji…

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[VIDEO] Eps X: Recap 2 58:08

5M ago58:08

58:08

Unlock 45% off Magic Mind products! 🧠✨ A game-changer. Use this exclusive link to save big: https://www.magicmind.com/hideandseekjan. Try it out and see the difference for yourself! 💪 In this recap episode, we revisit the most compelling moments and unanswered questions from Shane Barton’s story so far. What secrets lie hidden on the Montesano prop…

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How to Save the Environment from Trump and Project 2025 48:51

5M ago48:51

48:51

In his first term, Donald Trump pulled out of the global Paris Climate Accords and rolled back over 100 regulations impacting the safety of our air, water, and environment at large. As we prepare for Trump’s second term, Stacey Abrams speaks to Tik Root, Senior Staff Writer at Grist, about what protections and milestones are most at risk, which ele…

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Eps IX.1 : You Have One New Message 54:57

5M ago54:57

54:57

In this gripping first part of Episode Nine, James takes us deep into the tangled web of relationships, events, and secrets surrounding Shane Barton's disappearance. Through exclusive interviews and key details, the pieces of the puzzle begin to take shape. As James uncovers a voicemail from the night before Shane vanished, he finds himself in the …

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Eps IX.3 : The Debt That Won’t Die 41:16

5M ago41:16

41:16

In this gripping final part of Episode Nine, James sits down with Howard Wheeler, whose candid recollections paint a vivid picture of Shane Barton’s last known dealings. Howard’s sharp, no-nonsense perspective uncovers a tangled web of financial disputes, unfulfilled promises, and tensions that preceded Shane’s disappearance. From unpaid debts to s…

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Eps IX.2 : Bags of Cash Bundles of Secrets 22:42

5M ago22:42

22:42

In this second installment of Episode Nine, James dives into Jon Bean's account of his complex history with Shane Barton. From the struggles of shared property and unpaid debts to suspicions surrounding Shane's disappearance, Bean reveals stories of loyalty, betrayal, and unanswered questions. As secrets surface, the lingering question remains: Was…

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Do You See What I See? Building AI for All of Us 46:28

5M ago46:28

46:28

In the face of unbridled AI development and incoming President Trump’s close advisors who happen to be big investors in AI, it’s more important than ever to raise the alarm about areas of concern. Stacey Abrams speaks to Joy Buolamwini, the AI researcher and artist who brought to national attention the way bias is coded into artificial intelligence…

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Eps VIII: House of Cards 1:00:19

6M ago1:00:19

1:00:19

James dives deeper into the mystery following his first trip to Shane’s property, uncovering the tangled web of relationships and secrets surrounding his disappearance. A conversation with Dane, the property owner caught in the fallout between Shane, Rachael, and Howard, could hold the answers James has been searching for—but will Dane reveal what …

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How to Combat Project 2025’s Dangerous Prescription for Public Health 52:16

6M ago52:16

52:16

Stacey speaks to Dr. Céline Gounder, an infectious disease specialist, epidemiologist and editor at large for public health at KFF Health News, about the threats to public health with the incoming Trump Administration. They talk through Trump’s appointees for the nation’s top health and science agencies like RFK Jr., how to bring scientific thinkin…

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Eps VII: Overdue Truths 1:12:42

6M ago1:12:42

1:12:42

In this episode of Hide and Seek, James delves deeper into the tangled narratives surrounding Shane Barton’s disappearance by revisiting key interviews and analyzing conflicting recollections. James’s investigation takes him to the Barton property, where Rachael Barton retraces her actions on the day Shane vanished. Yet, her timeline is riddled wit…

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How to Stand Up to Project 2025 and Save Public Education 51:45

6M ago51:45

51:45

Stacey talks to Kate Nazemi, a local education activist and parent, and Jon Valant, director of the Brown Center on Education Policy at the Brookings Institution, about the future of public education during a second Trump Administration. They break down Project 2025’s education policy prescriptions, the threats to the Department of Education, and w…

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Competition vs Connection 1:02:04

6M ago1:02:04

1:02:04

Todays podcast delves into the competitive side of our human nature. Join us in discusing the ways competitive behavior patterns are blocking our ability to make and keep uplifting and supportive connections. We have discorvered the freedom that comes with releasing unhealthy and harmful behaviors that were causing us to sabotage the connections we…

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Eps VI: Where Silence Speaks 1:43:44

6M ago1:43:44

1:43:44

As the investigation unfolds, James delves deeper into the tangled threads of Shane Barton’s disappearance. In this gripping episode, we dissect Rachael’s accounts, confront contradictions, and explore the dynamics of the Barton family’s property—where every creak of a floorboard and every shadow may hold the answers. From the unsettling events on …

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How We Can Take Democracy Back with Ballot Initiatives 48:26

6M ago48:26

48:26

Stacey talks to Rachel Sweet, who has successfully used ballot initiatives in tough states to change the rules. Most recently, she served as campaign manager for Missourians for Constitutional Freedom, the coalition that passed abortion rights via a ballot measure in Missouri during the November elections. They discuss how ballot initiatives can be…

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No Trigger Warning 46:27

6M ago46:27

46:27

Triggers and trama are now widely used terns around the world. But are we understanding and utilizing the vast wisdom held within them to better ourselves and the world? How are we as a collective learning to communicate and connect durning times of disconnect? In this time of polarizing opinions creating conflict, how do we resoond to these uncomf…

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Eps V: Coffee, Chaos, and Clues 1:34:59

6M ago1:34:59

1:34:59

Four episodes in, the mystery surrounding Shane Barton grows deeper. In this special recap, James and the team revisit the labyrinth of clues that have emerged: the coffee Shane brewed before his sudden disappearance, the haunting cries of Charlie the bull that morning, and the final moments his family claims to have seen him. Rachael’s testimony—l…