#170 Mike Benz - USAID Funding CIA-Backed Mercenaries, Media Superweapons and Samantha Powers

Mike Benz is the Executive Director of the Foundation for Freedom Online, a non-profit watchdog group dedicated to protecting digital liberties and restoring the free and open Internet. He previously served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Communications and Information Technology at the US State Department during the Trump administration, where he formulated US policy on Internet diplomacy issues and interfaced with private industry. Benz has been a vocal critic of technological government overreach, most recently in his critiques of USAID and his advocacy against online censorship. He actively brings attention to people and organizations involved in controlling speech on social media. Prior to his role at the State Department, Benz was a White House speechwriter for President Trump and advised on technology policy. Prior to his public sector work, he practiced business law as an attorney in New York, representing technology companies and financial firms. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: https://ROKA.com | Use Code SRS https://lumen.me/srs https://hexclad.com/srs http://babbel.com/srs https://www.bubsnaturals.com/ | Use Code SHAWN https://patriotmobile.com/srs This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at http://betterhelp.com/srs and get on your way to being your best self. Mike Benz Links: Website - https://foundationforfreedomonline.com/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@MikeBenzCyberClips Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikebenzcyber/ X - https://x.com/MikeBenzCyber Please leave us a review on Apple & Spotify Podcasts. Vigilance Elite/Shawn Ryan Links: Website | Patreon | TikTok | Instagram | Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vivek Ramaswamy is a biotech entrepreneur, author, and political figure from Cincinnati, Ohio. He founded Roivant Sciences in 2014, focusing on innovative pharmaceutical development, and later co-founded Strive Asset Management. He is a prominent political figure, campaigning for the 2024 US Presidency before endorsing Donald Trump. In 2025, Ramaswamy stepped down from his co-leadership role in President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Ramaswamy’s expected run for Ohio governor has reshaped the state’s political landscape, with endorsements from prominent Republicans and a platform centered on tax reforms and reducing government inefficiency. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: https://lumen.me/srs https://ShawnLikesGold.com | 855-936-GOLD #goldcopartner https://ROKA.com | Use Code SRS https://www.armra.com/srs http://helixsleep.com/srs https://americanfinancing.net/srs NMLS 182334, nmlsconsumeraccess.org This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at http://betterhelp.com/srs and get on your way to being your best self. Vivek Ramaswamy Links: TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@vivekramaswamy Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/vivekgramaswamy/ X - https://x.com/VivekGRamaswamy LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivekgramaswamy/ Please leave us a review on Apple & Spotify Podcasts. Vigilance Elite/Shawn Ryan Links: Website | Patreon | TikTok | Instagram | Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Luis “Lue” Elizondo is a former U.S. Army intelligence officer and UFO researcher. He gained prominence for exposing research at the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (AATIP), a Pentagon initiative investigating unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs). Since leaving the Pentagon, Elizondo has become a vocal advocate for government transparency regarding UAPs. His memoir, "Imminent: Inside the Pentagon's Hunt for UFOs" debuted at number one on The New York Times Best Seller list. Elizondo continues to advocate disclosure of UAP information, appears in media interviews, and participates in various projects continuing the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: http://tryarmra.com/srs http://lumen.me/srs http://roka.com/ | USE CODE SRS http://hexclad.com/srs http://babbel.com/SRS http://helixsleep.com/srs https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/SRS Luis "Lue" Elizondo Links: Website - https://luiselizondo-official.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lueelizondo/ X - https://x.com/lueelizondo “Imminent” - https://www.amazon.com/Imminent-Pentagons-Investigating-UAPs_Featured-Experience/dp/0063235560 Please leave us a review on Apple & Spotify Podcasts. Vigilance Elite/Shawn Ryan Links: Website | Patreon | TikTok | Instagram | Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lindy Li, is a former campaign advisor and prominent commentator on U.S. politics who’s made significant contributions to the political landscape. After moving from China to America at the age of five, she eventually attended Princeton University where she became the first woman to serve as class president for all four years. Her early career included roles as a financial analyst at Merck and Morgan Stanley before pivoting to politics, where she served as the Women's Co-Chair and Mid-Atlantic Regional Chair at the Democratic National Committee. She was also involved in the Asian American outreach team for Joe Biden's 2020 presidential campaign. Li has recently transitioned from her Democratic roots to align with conservative politics, citing a toxic culture within her former party as one of many reasons for her departure. She has been vocal in criticising both President Biden and Vice President Harris, claiming that their leadership has stifled dissent within the party. She currently co-chairs the Justice Unites Us Super PAC, focusing on increasing Asian-American voter turnout, and has been recognized as one of Pennsylvania's most powerful women. In January 2025, she was appointed to President-elect Donald Trump's inaugural fundraising committee, marking a significant shift in her political affiliations. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: https://shawnryanshow.com/newsletter Lindy Li Links: Substack - https://substack.com/@lindyli TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lindyliofficial Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lindy_li/ X - https://x.com/lindyli LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thelindyli/ Please leave us a review on Apple & Spotify Podcasts. Vigilance Elite/Shawn Ryan Links: Website | Patreon | TikTok | Instagram | Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Diana Walsh Pasulka is a professor of religious studies at the University of North Carolina Wilmington who specializes in Catholic history and the intersection of religion, technology, and UFO beliefs. Pasulka's research focuses on how belief in UFOs and extraterrestrial life has influenced traditional religions and modern culture. Her notable works include "Heaven Can Wait," "American Cosmic: UFOs, Religion, Technology," and "Encounters: Experiences with Non-Human Intelligences". She holds a B.A. from the University of California, Davis, an M.A. from Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, and a Ph.D. from Syracuse University.  Pasulka's ongoing research explores the religious aspects of UFO phenomena and non-human intelligence encounters. She has collaborated with prestigious publishing houses, appeared on high profile media platforms, and consulted for films about religious supernatural themes. Pasulka is currently leading a translation project of Saint Joseph of Copertino's canonization records in cooperation with the Vatican Apostolic Archive. Her work continues to bridge the gap between academic religious studies and contemporary beliefs in extraterrestrial phenomena, solidifying her position as a leading expert in this unique field of study. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: http://patriotmobile.com/srs http://cozyearth.com/srs https://betterhelp.com/srs https://amac.us/srs https://shopify.com/srs http://hillsdale.edu/srs https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/SRS This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/srs and get on your way to being your best self Diana Pasulka Links: Website - https://dwpasulka.com/ X - https://x.com/dwpasulka Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dwpasulka/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwpasulka/ “American Cosmic” - https://www.amazon.com/American-Cosmic-UFOs-Religion-Technology/dp/019069288X Please leave us a review on Apple & Spotify Podcasts. Vigilance Elite/Shawn Ryan Links: Website | Patreon | TikTok | Instagram | Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Bledsoe is a UFO encounter claimant. He reported a UFO experience in 2007 while fishing, which he says cured an illness and led to spiritual awakening. Bledsoe speaks at events, writes, and is studied by scientists. Government agencies and religious groups have shown interest in his case. Bledsoe published "UFO of GOD: The Extraordinary True Story of Chris Bledsoe" in 2023. The book describes his encounters with UFOs, orbs, and spiritual entities. He reports ongoing phenomena at his home. Defense, intelligence, and military branches continue to investigate his claims. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: https://amac.us/srs https://shopify.com/srs https://meetfabric.com/shawn http://hillsdale.edu/srs https://betterhelp.com/srs https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/SRS https://ShawnLikesGold.com | 855-936-GOLD #goldcopartner This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/srs and get on your way to being your best self Please leave us a review on Apple & Spotify Podcasts. Vigilance Elite/Shawn Ryan Links: Website | Patreon | TikTok | Instagram | Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re revisiting Episode #07 with Ed Calderon, a former police officer in Mexico who dedicated his career to combating cartels and organized crime. This recap highlights Ed's extraordinary insights into survival, security, and the challenges faced on the frontlines of law enforcement in one of the world's most dangerous environments. Shawn Ryan Links: Spotify - Full Episode Apple Podcasts - Full Episode Ed Calderon Links: Website - https://www.edsmanifesto.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/edsmanifesto Please leave us a review on Apple & Spotify Podcasts. Vigilance Elite/Shawn Ryan Links: Website | Patreon | TikTok | Instagram | Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike Grover is a security researcher, InfoSec expert, and the creator of the infamous O.MG Cable. He gained prominence in 2019 when he showcased his malicious USB cable prototype at DEF CON, capable of recording keystrokes and executing remote commands. Grover's O.MG Cable looks identical to a regular charging cable, but contains a tiny implant that creates a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing attackers to access the connected device from up to 300 feet away. Since its inception, Grover has refined the O.MG Cable design, making it indistinguishable from normal USB cables and expanding its capabilities. The latest iteration includes features such as geofencing, self-destruct mechanisms, and support for various connector types including Lightning and USB-C. Grover's work aims to raise awareness about hardware security risks while providing tools for red teams and security researchers to test and improve organizational defenses. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: https://ROKA.com | Use Code SRS https://ExpressVPN.com/SRS https://ZipRecruiter.com/SRS https://RocketMoney.com/SRS https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/SRS https://ShawnLikesGold.com | 855-936-GOLD #goldcopartner https://americanfinancing.net/srs NMLS 182334, nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Call 866-781-8900 for details about credit costs and terms. Mike Grover Links: Website - https://o.mg.lol/ X - https://x.com/_MG_ LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/mgrover Please leave us a review on Apple & Spotify Podcasts. Vigilance Elite/Shawn Ryan Links: Website | Patreon | TikTok | Instagram | Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gary’s journey began in the insurance industry as a mortality-modeling expert, predicting lifespans with astonishing precision. In this role he used medical records and demographic data to predict how long someone would live, down to the month. This precise, data-driven approach to human life deepened Gary’s fascination with blood chemistry and the biomarkers of longevity. Determined to shift from forecasting life spans to extending them, Gary set off on a quest to optimize these biomarkers and uncover the secrets to a longer, healthier life. Gary realized that understanding and manipulating the very elements that determine life expectancy could revolutionize personal health and wellness. This revelation inspired him to delve deeper into the science of human biology, seeking out the latest research and collaborating with leading experts in the field. Today, his work is revolutionizing the lives of thousands, including top athletes, CEOs, and celebrities. To further his mission Gary launched The Ultimate Human, a platform where he shares his extensive knowledge through regular wellness challenges. He also hosts the “The Ultimate Human” podcast, where his mission is to empower his audience with the knowledge and tools to achieve peak performance and vitality. Join Gary Brecka’s FREE 3-Day Morning Routine Challenge! 🗓️ LIVE February 19-21  👉 Sign up now: https://bit.ly/4gaZ8DK Gain exclusive access to Gary Brecka’s proven wellness protocols, designed to empower you with peak health, vitality, and mental clarity: https://bit.ly/4ai0Xwg Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: https://ROKA.com | Use Code SRS https://ExpressVPN.com/SRS https://ZipRecruiter.com/SRS https://RocketMoney.com/SRS https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/SRS https://ShawnLikesGold.com | 855-936-GOLD #goldcopartner https://americanfinancing.net/srs NMLS 182334, nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Call 866-781-8900 for details about credit costs and terms. Gary Brecka Links: Instagram: https://bit.ly/3RPpnFs YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPQYX8 TikTok: https://bit.ly/4coJ8fo X.com: https://bit.ly/3Opc8tf Facebook: https://bit.ly/464VA1H LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4hH7Ri2 Website: https://bit.ly/4eLDbdU Merch: https://bit.ly/4aBpOM1 Newsletter: https://bit.ly/47ejrws Ask Gary: https://bit.ly/3PEAJuG Studies & Information Medical Issues in the USA 77% of Americans Unfit to Serve + Further Discussion Serotonin in the Gut The Vaccine-Friendly Plan by Dr. Paul Thomas Folic Acid and the MTHFR Gene Health Benefits of Sauna Sauna and Autoimmunity Salt and Migraine Headaches Please leave us a review on Apple & Spotify Podcasts. Vigilance Elite/Shawn Ryan Links: Website | Patreon | TikTok | Instagram | Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re revisiting Episode #06 with former firefighter Travis Howze in this recap, focusing on his experience responding to the Charleston Sofa Super Store fire, a tragic event that claimed the lives of nine firefighters. This moment stands as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who risk everything to protect others. Shawn Ryan Links: Spotify - Full Episode Apple Podcasts - Full Episode Travis Howze Links: Website - https://www.travishowze.com Book - https://amzn.to/3mpFPdC Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/travishowze Please leave us a review on Apple & Spotify Podcasts. Vigilance Elite/Shawn Ryan Links: Website | Patreon | TikTok | Instagram | Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices