In Episode #193, Ray Doustdar dives into political flashbacks and current chaos, kicking off with Tulsi Gabbard's infamous takedown of Kamala Harris during the 2020 debates. He then explores the sudden shift in media narratives surrounding Kamala, critiques both major party VP picks, and connects the dots between political puppetry and billionaire influence. Wrapping things up, Ray highlights the Olympics' finest moments and advocates for daily movement and mindfulness.

In Episode #192, Ray welcomes guest Hannah Smith for an eye-opening conversation on Christian Zionism, nationalism, and the global awakening sparked by social media. Hannah shares her personal journey growing up as a Christian Zionist and how that perspective evolved. Together, they explore the spiritual, political, and historical forces shaping today's conflicts—from Gaza to Congo—and how new generations are reclaiming narratives and demanding accountability.

In Episode #191, Ray dives into the unrest in Venezuela following disputed elections, probing deeper into the geopolitical forces at play. He connects dots between oil politics, U.S. interventionism, and global resource control. From assassinations in Iran and Syria to Israel's aggressive posture and the growing tension with Iran, this episode unpacks whether any major players actually want peace—or if endless war remains too profitable. Plus, Ray highlights moments from Dave Matthews and Colonel Douglas Macgregor that challenge mainstream narratives.

In Episode #190, Ray breaks down the controversy surrounding the Olympic Opening Ceremonies, which stirred widespread backlash for perceived anti-Christian symbolism and chaotic visuals. He also challenges the narrative of a new California bill that restricts parental notification regarding a child’s gender identity changes in school. Rounding out the episode, Ray touches on the shifting dynamics in the 2024 election and the geopolitical instability unfolding in Venezuela.

In Episode #189, we dive deep into the roots of the Russia-Ukraine conflict with renowned international law expert Professor Demetrius Floudas. From historical partitions and Cold War dynamics to modern geopolitical chess moves, this episode breaks down the complexity behind one of today’s most pressing global crises. Professor Floudas, having lived and worked in both Russia and Ukraine, provides unique insights into the political, cultural, and strategic factors at play.

In Episode #188, we break down the dramatic political pivot in the U.S. presidential race as President Biden drops out, the firestorm sparked by Netanyahu’s controversial address to Congress, and the global spectacle kicking off with the Paris Olympics. From timing anomalies in political debates to potential proxy wars, this episode serves as a raw and real reflection on political theatre and public perception.

In Episode #187, Ray sits down with Greg Barnsdale, a former funeral director turned financial planner and author, to explore the often-avoided but universally relevant topic of death. They discuss everything from the emotional and financial aspects of end-of-life planning to eco-friendly burial alternatives. This deeply thoughtful episode brings empathy, practical advice, and even a little levity to a conversation about mortality that everyone eventually needs to have.

In Episode #186, Ray gets candid and unscripted as he shares some unsettling gut feelings about global events and the political climate in the U.S. From concerns over the upcoming Paris Olympics to the volatility of the 2024 election season, this raw solo episode digs into cultural flashpoints, political polarization, and personal reflections. It’s an honest snapshot of the uncertainty many are feeling in today's world.

In Episode #185, Ray Doustdar interviews 21-year-old Jewish peace activist Elijah Kahlenberg, offering a powerful conversation on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Elijah shares his personal journey, from his diverse Jewish heritage to forming the Atia movement on college campuses. The episode explores the impact of youth-led activism, the complexity of Zionism, and the transformative power of empathy.

In Episode #184, Ray Doustdar reacts to a whirlwind political week, including President Biden dropping out of the 2024 race. Ray examines media narratives, the potential return of Hillary Clinton, Gavin Newsom's chances, and Donald Trump's unchanged demeanor following the assassination attempt. He also critiques the media's double standards and the rise of political worship and derangement syndromes.

In Episode #183, Ray Doustdar sits down with Kaizen Asiedu, a cultural commentator and life coach whose viral Instagram videos have sparked widespread conversation. The two dive into Kaizen’s political awakening, how fear shapes society, and why the cultural narrative around figures like Trump and RFK Jr. matters. This raw and honest dialogue explores media bias, political tribalism, and the power of speaking truth—even when it's unpopular. Kaizen’s blend of introspection and fearless commentary makes this one of the most impactful DSD episodes to date.

In Episode #182, Ray Doustdar takes listeners on a fast-paced, insightful journey through one of the most emotionally charged political weeks in recent memory. Starting with reflections on Donald Trump’s anticipated RNC speech and the heightened religious rhetoric within the Republican party, Ray shifts focus to the viral rise of Kaizen Asiedu—a cultural commentator whose common-sense takes on Trump and media distortion are shaking up the narrative. This prelude episode sets the stage for Kaizen’s appearance in EP#183, offering thoughtful commentary on polarization, fear, and independent thinking.

In Episode #181, Ray Doustdar reflects on the state of political and social division in America through the lens of a viral metaphor: red ants and black ants attacking each other only after someone shakes the jar. Using this as a jumping-off point, Ray explores the fallout from the Trump assassination attempt, his skepticism around the official narrative, and the demographic and thematic takeaways from the Republican National Convention. It’s a fast-paced episode covering everything from Rambo references to vaccine policies, with a sharp eye on propaganda, fear, and manipulation.

In Episode #180, Ray sits down with retired U.S. Air Force Command Chief Master Sergeant David Nordel for a raw and insightful conversation about leadership, legacy, and living an authentic life. From battlefield experiences to family dynamics, Nordel opens up about the emotional challenges of military service, the importance of storytelling, and how authenticity has guided his journey in and out of uniform. This episode is about service, humanity, and finding clarity in a noisy world.

In Episode #179, Ray breaks down the shocking attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump just days before the Republican National Convention. With his signature curiosity and candor, Ray questions the strange circumstances surrounding the shooter’s positioning, the Secret Service’s perimeter, and the media’s initial framing of the incident. This episode unpacks what we know, what doesn’t add up, and how both political parties have responded in the aftermath—offering listeners a raw and thought-provoking lens on a moment that could reshape the 2024 election.

In Episode #178, we kick off the Deep Shallow Dive Business Series with a bang. Host Ray Doustdar welcomes Sam Moses, the resilient and visionary CEO of Sockrates Custom Socks, to share his incredible entrepreneurial journey. From selling luxury neckties in Canada to founding a booming custom B2B sock business with a seven-day global turnaround, Sam opens up about navigating floods, pivoting through a pandemic, and building a high-integrity brand with Italian craftsmanship at its core. Learn how Sockrates redefined promotional products, partnered with a third-generation factory in Italy, and scaled to over half a million dollars in monthly sales — all while maintaining exceptional customer experience. This episode is a masterclass in ecommerce pivots, B2B strategy, and entrepreneurial grit.

In Episode #177, host Ray Doustdar dives into the origins of "The 712" episodes and delivers a nostalgic tribute to his father on what would have been his birthday. As part of this personal reflection, Ray finally reveals that the 712 was a tribute to his dad's birthday, July 12th, and honors his legacy as the "original critical thinker" of the Doustdar family. The episode then transitions into a fun and opinionated exploration of ChatGPT's top 10 athletes across a variety of sports. From Michael Jordan to Serena Williams, Ray breaks down each list with his signature commentary, challenging rankings, and adding personal takes. It’s a lighter episode packed with sports debate, personal storytelling, and a teaser for upcoming interviews, including custom sock mogul Sam Moses.