The Whistleblowers

Big pharma lies

In the US, big pharmaceutical companies often seem like a boogeyman, and that’s no accident. Profit, rather than altruism, drives pharmaceutical development, meaning if a new drug isn’t deemed cost-effective, it won’t make it to the market. Moreover, these companies frequently boost their profits by offering doctors commissions on the medications they prescribe. The US is also one of the rare countries where pharmaceutical companies are permitted to advertise their drugs directly to consumers. Journalist Martha Rosenberg and host John Kiriakou explore the impact of this pharmaceutical dominance on public health.

NAACP challenge

In today’s world, some names and titles no longer fit, and Delia Gray, a Texas-based community activist, is leading the charge to address this issue. Her current focus is on updating the outdated name of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). While the NAACP has been a pivotal force in advancing civil rights, racial equality, and equal opportunity in the US, its name is seen by many as outdated and offensive. Delia Gray is dedicated to changing it and bringing the organization’s name into alignment with contemporary values. She joins John Kiriakou on this episode of The Whistleblowers to talk about her case.

The American tax code

Taxes are notoriously complicated for many Americans, with some tax returns extending over 100 pages. When a whistleblower comes forward with evidence of waste, fraud, abuse, or illegal activities, their concerns are often overlooked. This was the experience of Attorney Thomas Wilcox, who faced dismissal after exposing federal and state tax fraud involving Wall Street banks and investment firms. Join us as Mr. Wilcox takes us through the labyrinth of blowing the whistle on America’s tax system, with John Kiriakou.

Are we alone?

The question of whether we are alone in the universe has captivated many, especially with Dr. Avi Loeb’s latest findings. Renowned for his search for extraterrestrial life, Dr. Loeb discusses with John Kiriakou his discovery of 850 tiny spherules – molten droplets he believes are composed of a material much stronger than typical meteoric iron. He theorizes that these droplets could originate from another galaxy or even be the result of advanced extraterrestrial technology. Aliens have sparked widespread debate, leaving us to ponder: Are these scientific revelations hinting at the presence of intelligent life beyond Earth? Are we really alone?

Gaza’s death toll

Addressing the war and death toll in Gaza is incredibly difficult. Since October 7, 2023, civilian casualties have exceeded those in any conflict since WWII. Israel’s objective is to dismantle Hamas, but even high-ranking Israeli leaders admit this is unachievable. What started as a justified war for many Israelis has increasingly faced allegations of genocide, starvation, and forced displacement. Join host John Kiriakou and journalist Richard Silverstein as they explore the grim reality of a war with no end in sight.

Fighting for the rights of whistleblowers

Ari Danikas, the founder of Liberty of Speech, is a passionate advocate for freedom of expression and whistleblower protection. Instead of staying in the shadows, Ari has taken a bold stand for whistleblowers everywhere. Host John Kiriakou takes us through Ari’s remarkable journey, from his work with the South African police to exposing corruption within the institution that forced him to flee to Greece for safety amid threats to his and his family’s lives.