The President's Daily Brief
The First TV
Each morning, the President of the United States receives a highly classified briefing on the most important issues facing the country -- The President's Daily Brief. Now you can hear your very own PDB, in the form of a podcast, every morning at 6am Eastern, and every afternoon at 4pm Eastern. You'll get 20 minutes of the most important topics of the day and why you should care, arming you with what you need to know to help solve America's most pressing challenges. Former CIA Operations Officer Mike Baker hosts new episodes daily.
Episodes
Mentioned books
8 snips
Apr 2, 2026 • 22min
April 2nd, 2026: Iran War Enters “COMPLETION PHASE” & Iran Escalates Cyber Campaign
A rundown of intense strike campaigns and a possible shift into a “completion phase” of the Iran war. A China-Pakistan plan ties a ceasefire to reopening the Strait of Hormuz and stabilizing energy flows. Iran steps up personalized cyber operations aimed at officials and corporate staff. Japan breaks decades of postwar restraint by deploying long-range missiles.
9 snips
Apr 1, 2026 • 13min
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2026: First Gulf State Ready To Join The War & North Korea Hacks U.S. Software
Breaking reporting suggests a Gulf state may be preparing to join the fight and force open the Strait of Hormuz. Discussion covers why that state shifted from neutrality and how regional alignments could change the conflict. A cyber supply-chain compromise tied to North Korea is highlighted, with analysis of the attack’s scope and its possible goal of stealing cryptocurrency.
14 snips
Apr 1, 2026 • 23min
April 1st, 2026: Trump Reveals Who He’s Talking To In Iran & Russia’s Oil Crisis
Reveals who U.S. officials have been quietly contacting in Iran and why that person’s ties matter. Explores whether a powerful Iranian insider could actually negotiate or enforce deals. Examines how Ukrainian strikes have crippled Russian oil export infrastructure and cut expected revenue. Looks at Moscow’s push to isolate Russia from the global internet and new Ukraine-Gulf defense agreements.
9 snips
Mar 31, 2026 • 16min
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2026: U.S. May Declare Victory Soon & IDF’s CNN Controversy
Discussion of reports that the U.S. may declare victory in the Iran conflict without reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Examination of a reported two-phase U.S. plan and the global economic risks if Hormuz remains unsecured. Coverage of an incident where an Israeli battalion detained a CNN crew in the West Bank and the military’s subsequent suspension and inquiry.
22 snips
Mar 31, 2026 • 28min
March 31st, 2026: Russia’s Hidden Hand In Iran War & Trump Relents On Cuba Energy Blockade
Claims that Russia may be helping Iran target U.S. assets in the Middle East raise new strategic alarms. Reports of upgraded drone shipments and Ukraine sharing drone-defense expertise with Gulf states feature heavily. Beijing’s invite to Taiwan’s opposition aims to shape an upcoming summit. Washington also eases rules to let a sanctioned Russian tanker reach Cuba while restoring a diplomatic footprint in Venezuela.
8 snips
Mar 30, 2026 • 16min
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 30th, 2026: Trump Threatens Obliteration As Iran Rejects U.S. Proposal & Israel Deepens Fight In Lebanon As Iran’s Grip Holds
Tensions with Iran dominate the bulletin, as leaders trade threats and diplomatic proposals face blunt rejection. The U.S. military posture and talk of seizing strategic assets are discussed. In Lebanon, Israel expands operations to push back Hezbollah while Tehran’s deep influence in Beirut complicates efforts to contain the conflict.
32 snips
Mar 30, 2026 • 21min
March 30th, 2026: Pentagon Plans Next Phase Of Iran War & Houthis Enter The Conflict
Reporting that the Pentagon is preparing possible limited ground operations inside Iran and a U.S. troop surge in the region. Coverage of an Iranian drone and missile strike that wounded American forces and damaged aircraft at Prince Sultan Air Base. The Houthis launch their first attack on Israel since the war began. North Korea tests a new solid-fuel missile engine, raising strategic concerns.
39 snips
Mar 28, 2026 • 1h 1min
PDB Situation Report | March 28th, 2026: The Most Dangerous Phase of the Iran War Yet & Ukrainian Forces Gain Ground Against Russia
Steve Yates, senior research fellow and former deputy national security advisor, provides expertise on U.S. security and Middle East geopolitics. He discusses the escalating Iran conflict, the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, U.S.-Israeli coordination and burden sharing, political constraints on military aims, and the narrow window for de-escalation and long-term risks.
11 snips
Mar 27, 2026 • 15min
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2026: Calls Grow Inside Iran For A Nuclear Weapon & Russia Faces Worst Oil Disruption In Modern History
Tense debate in Tehran over whether to formally pursue a nuclear weapon after recent strikes and a hardline power shift. A surge in strikes has knocked out roughly 40% of Russia’s oil export capacity, reshaping Moscow’s revenue picture. Discussion focuses on shifting strategy, practical limits, and how market forces and sanctions might blunt the impact.
34 snips
Mar 27, 2026 • 25min
March 27th, 2026: U.S. Prepares "Final Blow” On Iran & Russia’s Satellite Scramble
Reporting on Pentagon plans for a decisive escalation against Iran, including large-scale strikes and possible ground operations. Iran is reportedly charging ships for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Russia is racing to build its own satellite network after losing access to Starlink. The Pentagon is boosting munitions production as stockpiles strain.
