Who Knew?

About Who Knew?

Tired of political shouting matches? The 25-Minute Brief: Who Knew delivers the facts, not the feelings. We dive deep into the week's key developments, providing the crucial background you need to form your own informed opinion. To create informed citizens. No bias, no agendas, just real information in a digestible format. You listen, learn and decide. Tune in weekly. Hosted by BVans.

Publisher

CareerNet Companies, hosted by BVans

Category

news

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

13 Mar 2025

Latest episode

8 May 2025

Latest episodes

12 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   8 May 2025

   Thinking About America

   Feeling overwhelmed by the constant barrage of news andopinions? Take a breath with "Who Knew." This week, host BVans steps back from the immediate fray to contemplate America's role in an increasingly complex world. With so much noise and uncertainty, we're hitting pause on deep dives, opting instead to observe and reflect. BVans shares thoughts on the impact of tariffs and thepersistent challenges of federal governance, questioning why Washington can't seem to manage resources as effectively as state governments. He revisits the recent insightful episode on Hamas and acknowledges the difficulty of unbiased discussion in such fraught times. Looking outward, BVans draws on years of discussions withglobal thinkers, exploring the argument that the US has lost its standing as the leading voice of modern government due to unresolved internal issues. While acknowledging America's foundational ideals, he reflects on the inherent messiness of governing a diverse nation and navigating a turbulent global landscape. Join us for a moment of considered reflection in a world demanding constant reaction. Sources: A Brief History of U.S. Foreign Aid- CFR Education United States foreign aid -Wikipedia Marshall Plan (1948) | NationalArchives The Marshall Plan and PostwarEconomic Recovery | The National WWII Museum | New Orleans The Marshall Plan: Design,Accomplishments, and Significance - EveryCRSReport.com The Marshall Plan: Definition, Date& Cold War - HISTORY Truman Doctrine (1947) | NationalArchives This Day in History: TrumanDoctrine Announced The Truman Doctrine, 1947 -Milestones in the History of U.S. Foreign Relations - Office of the Historian Harry Truman and the TrumanDoctrine | Harry S. Truman - Truman Library US Occupation Assistance: Iraq,Germany and Japan Compared - Naval History and Heritage Command GARIOA - Wikipedia GARIOA Program - (History of Japan)- Vocab, Definition, Explanations | Fiveable How the US and Japan Went FromEnemies to Allies After WWII - History.com Decolonization of Asia and Africa,1945–1960 - Office of the Historian A Short History of U.S.International Food Assistance - State.gov U.S. Occupation Assistance: Iraq,Germany, and Japan Compared - Every CRS Report: GARIOA meaning: Financial aid forpost-war Japan - OneLook

2. 

   30 Apr 2025

   Hamas

   Brace yourselves. This week on Who Knew!, BVans dives headfirst into a subject so volatile it's practically a powder keg: Hamas, also known as the Islamic Resistance Movement. Prepare for a potentially uncomfortable but undeniably crucial conversation that cuts to the quick of global divisions. For many Americans, sheltered by vast oceans, the world can seem a reasonably stable place. But the reality is far more complex. Deep ideological rifts exist, and for some, America and its allies are not beacons of freedom, but oppressive forces to be resisted fiercely. True to the Who Knew! spirit, we're cutting through the noise and the fury. Forget the soundbites and the social media echo chambers. This episode delivers a facts-only exploration of Hamas, meticulously researched and presented within a historical context. We're not here to tell you what to think, but to equip you with the information you need to form your own informed opinions. Consider this episode your starting point for understanding the intricate and centuries-long engagement between the Middle East and the West, with future episodes set to delve deeper into this critical region. Given the sheer volume of sources that underpin this discussion, they won't be read aloud, but you'll find a comprehensive list in the podcast description. Join BVans as we attempt to piece together the complex puzzle surrounding Hamas, offering clarity where mainstream and social media have often created more confusion. This is Who Knew!, and this week, we're tackling the tough stuff. Sources dni.gov (https://www.dni.gov/nctc/groups/hamas.html) terrorist group Hamas - National Counterterrorism Center | Groups Hamas - Wikipedia justice.gov (https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-disrupts-hamas-terrorist-financing-scheme-through-seizure-cryptocurrency) extremism.gwu.edu (https://extremism.gwu.edu/sites/g/files/zaxdzs5746/files/2023-10/hamas-networks-final.pdf) The Hamas Networks in America: A Short History - Program on Extremism cfr.org (https://cfr.org) What Is Hamas? | Council on Foreign Relations researchgate.net (https://researchgate.net) The Historical Antecedents of Hamas dni.gov (https://dni.gov) designated HAMAS as a foreign terrorist organization -National Counterterrorism Center tandfonline.com (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00263206.2021.1897006) Full article: From jihad to resistance: the evolution ofHamas's discourse in the framework of mobilization state.gov (https://www.state.gov/foreign-terrorist-organizations/) ForeignTerrorist Organizations - United States Department of State home.treasury.gov (https://home.treasury.gov) Following Terrorist Attack on Israel, Treasury SanctionsHamas Operatives and Financial Facilitators en.unav.edu (https://en.unav.edu/web/global-affairs/hamas-en-perspectiva-origenes-y-evolucion) Hamas in perspective: Origins and evolution - University ofNavarra ctc.westpoint.edu (https://ctc.westpoint.edu) The Road to October 7: Hamas' Long Game, Clarified -Combating Terrorism Center morningstar.com (https://morningstar.com) Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) Publishes Newwashingtoninstitute.org (https://washingtoninstitute.org) For All That Changed, Hamas Is Still Hamas - The WashingtonInstitute wilsoncenter.org (https://wilsoncenter.org) Hamas-Israel War: Views From Wilson Center Experts cddrl.fsi.stanford.edu (https://cddrl.fsi.stanford.edu) FSI Scholars Analyze Implications of Hamas' Terror Attack onIsrael middleeasteye.net (https://middleeasteye.net) What's behind the claims Hamas is moving to Turkey? mei.edu (https://mei.edu) Understanding Gaza: Lessons for the "day after" andbeyond en.asaninst.org (https://en.asaninst.org) Israel-Hamas War: Analysis and Prospects - The Asan Institute for Policy Studies crsreports.congress.gov (https://crsreports.congress.gov) Israel and Hamas Conflict In Brief: Overview, US Policy, andOptions for Congress | CRS Reports congress.gov (https://congress.gov) Israel and Hamas Conflict In Brief: Overview, U.S. Policy,and Options for Congress weku.org (https://www.weku.org/2025-04-26/u-n-says-it-has-run-out-of-food-in-gaza-amidst-israels-blockade) U.N. says it has run out of food in Gaza amidst Israel'sblockade | WEKU Reuters (https://www.reuters.com/) israelhayom.com (https://israelhayom.com) Herzog: 'The war has two objectives – it does not have to bean either-or situation' The Associated Press (https://apnews.com/) usun.usmission.gov (https://usun.usmission.gov/remarks-at-a-un-security-council-briefing-on-the-situation-in-the-middle-east-including-the-palestinian-question-2/) Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation inthe Middle East, including the Palestinian question tandfonline.com (https://tandfonline.com) EU Policy towards the Israel-Palestine Conflict: TheLimitations of Mitigation Strategies fdd.org (fttps://fdd.org) 10 Things to Know About the UN and Hamas ohchr.org (https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2024/10/un-commission-finds-war-crimes-and-crimes-against-humanity-israeli-attacks) UN Commission finds war crimes and crimes against humanity in Israeli attacks on Gaza health facilities and treatment of detainees, hostagesiemed.org (https://www.iemed.org/publication/cracks-in-eu-foreign-policy-exposing-divisions-over-palestine-and-israel-amidst-the-gaza-war/) arabcenterdc.org (https://arabcenterdec.org) Demystifying How the Hamas Leadership Works

3. 

   24 Apr 2025

   On America Today

   There are no stories worth discussing in the National conversation this week so, rather than take one of these non-stories and bring it closer to you, I thought I wouldn’t waste your time and simply let my mind wander on America, today’s America, and see where it all goes.

4. 

   17 Apr 2025

   Trade Deficits 1.

   Welcome to Who Knew, the podcast from the Research Team at CareerNet, hosted by Bvans. On April 17th, 2025, we're dedicated to bringing you clarity amidst the chaos of national discourse. We're weary of the misinformation plaguing mainstream and social media and believe informed citizens are crucial for America. Our goal is simple: to educate our listeners with real information, empowering you to form your own opinions. This week, we dive into Trade Deficits and the US economy, challenging the narrative that it needs "fixing" and advocating for necessary changes to better serve Americans. We call out the pundits who prioritize political posturing over factual analysis, using the example of US trade. But mainly, we give you accurate information so that you can form your own decisions. Join us to gain valuable economic insights often overlooked.

5. 

   10 Apr 2025

   Protests

   Yelling and misinformation won't change the world. But effective, organized protests can. This week, we're tackling the touchy subject of Protests and Protesting in America, exploring how they've shaped our nation and why recent efforts often miss the mark. We know this is a hot topic, but by understanding the history and the essential elements of successful movements – from dedicated leadership to clear messaging – you can improve your impact. Forget taking sides, just listen and learn how to participate and lead protests that truly make a difference. It's time to reclaim the power of collective action and ensure your efforts contribute to a better future.

6. 

   2 Apr 2025

   Signal Gate

   Ever sent a text you regretted? We all have. This week, we're diving deep into the world of instant messaging, a technology we use hundreds of times a day, yet understand shockingly little. It's not just about texting; it's about everydigital message you send – and the permanent footprint it leaves. We'll tackle the recent "Signal-Gate" controversy, breaking down the facts and exploring the broader implications. Even our highest government officials seem to be grappling with the basics, highlighting just how crucial it is to understand the power and potential pitfalls of these platforms. This isn't just about pointing fingers. It's about empowering you. We'll examine your own usage, offering practical recommendations to help you navigate this digitallandscape with discipline and awareness. Drawing from our experience developing educational courses on this very topic, we'll offer unique perspectives and insights. Expect to hear my opinions, but more importantly, expect to be challenged to think critically about your own digital habits. Let's turn "Signal-Gate" into a wake-up call and transform how we use instant messaging, for good.

7. 

   26 Mar 2025

   The US Budget, Pt 1

   Ever feel like the internet has replaced critical thinking with clickbait? We're on a mission to change that. As dedicated listeners of "Who Knew," we're unpacking complex issues, starting with the US Budget. You'd be amazed how many people, even experts, struggle with the basics. We'll reveal why this matters to your future, your kids' future, and your vote. Prepare for a dose of reality beyond the polls.

8. 

   18 Mar 2025

   Inflation

   Now, beforeyou roll your eyes and mutter to yourself, I know what inflation is because I am paying higher prices for eggs, credit card fees, rent, car payments, or mortgages, Netflix, pretty much everything. We hear you. But why is that the case? I mean, isn’t a core component to capitalism theidea that markets will always find cheaper, better ways to produce better goods and provide better services in order to stay competitive? We also update you on the Ukraine.

9. 

   13 Mar 2025

   Who Knew! - Tarrifs

   Who Knew! Season 1, Episode 3: Tariffs - Funding Freedom. A thriving economy is the bedrock of our freedoms. But maintaining that economy, and funding government services, is a costly endeavor. Today, we examine tariffs, a key historical tool for government revenue. We'll also preview the upcoming congressional budget debate and its impact on our democratic society. Recorded March 13, 2025. Created by the CareerNet Companies, hosted by BVans

10. 

    13 Mar 2025

    Immigration

    Who Knew? Season 1, Episode 2: Immigration - Beyond the Headlines. Recorded March 5, 2025. The recent media barrage on immigration feels like an assault. But this is not a new battle. We trace the roots of the immigration debate back to the Civil War, providing historical context to understand the current national conversation. We cut through the noise and deliver the facts. Created by the CareerNet Companies hosted by BVans.

11. 

    13 Mar 2025

    Season 1, Episode 1: Ukraine

    Who Knew?: Ukraine Delve into the landscape of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This episode, recorded February 27th, 2025, provides factual information on the current international and US national discussions. We explore the historical roots of the conflict, including the roles of NATO, the Soviet Union, and the intertwined histories of Russia and Ukraine. Gain a clear understanding of the US's historical and current strategies aimed at resolving the conflict. No opinions, just essential context.

12. 

    13 Mar 2025

    Who Knew? - Trailer

    Want to be a better-informed citizen? "Who Knew!" is your antidote to biased news. We deliver the facts on the week's national discussions, free from political agendas. Our seasoned research team digs deep, so you don't have to. We believe in the power of truth, and in your ability to think for yourself. Hosted by BVans. Join us in creating a generation that values real information. "Who Knew!"

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

40,364

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Podcast Authority Score: 60 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

90

Social presence

0

YouTube

76

Engagement

0

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.