#248 Jon Delaney - Who's Protecting Jeffrey Epstein's Secrets?
In this episode of the Shawn Ryan Show, Jon Delaney discusses how foreign governments and marketing firms actively work to influence independent media and shape public narratives. Through personal experiences and research, Delaney reveals how entities use various tactics, from direct government contact to paid influencer campaigns, to manipulate American perceptions on topics ranging from regulations to international conflicts.
The conversation examines the role of sophisticated bot networks in social media discourse and how automated systems create illusions of widespread support for specific viewpoints. Ryan and Delaney also explore how foreign interference, partisan rhetoric, and media bias contribute to societal division, while discussing potential approaches to addressing these challenges, such as seeking out diverse perspectives and engaging in dialogue across political differences.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Oct 27, 2025 episode of the Shawn Ryan Show
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Foreign Influence on Independent Media and Information Landscape
Jon Delaney reveals how foreign governments are actively working to influence independent media and shape public narratives. He shares his personal experience of being contacted by the UK Home Office through Instagram and describes an encounter with a Wagner Group doctor in Ukraine who attempted to influence his perspective on Russian-American relations.
Foreign influence extends beyond direct government contact, as marketing firms are being used to pay influencers to push specific narratives. Delaney discusses how some firms have hired right-leaning influencers to criticize regulations, while others, like Tenet Media, have paid influencers to promote pro-Russian viewpoints about the Ukraine war. He notes that foreign governments, including China's Communist Youth League, have offered substantial compensation to influencers for content that shapes American perceptions.
Bots and Automated Accounts Manipulating Online Discourse
Shawn Ryan and Jon Delaney explore the sophisticated operations of bot networks in social media. Delaney shares that over three years, they've restricted about a thousand bot accounts that appeared genuine. These bots don't just drive traffic; they actively shape narratives and influence discussions by creating the illusion of widespread support or opposition for various viewpoints.
The hosts emphasize how these automated systems can gaslight users into believing they're engaging with real individuals, making it increasingly difficult to distinguish between genuine interaction and manipulated content. Delaney points to specific examples, such as AI-generated videos and false stories about military equipment, to demonstrate how bots amplify and spread disinformation.
Societal Division and Mistrust
Ryan and Delaney discuss how foreign interference, partisan rhetoric, and media bias contribute to societal division and eroding trust in democratic institutions. Delaney notes that decades of government untruths have created a "boy who cried wolf" situation, while Ryan expresses concern about the potential for violent conflict.
The hosts examine how both mainstream and independent media outlets contribute to division through conflicting narratives, particularly evident in coverage of events like January 6th and the Ukraine conflict. They suggest addressing these issues by challenging personal biases and seeking diverse perspectives. Ryan shares his experience with California Governor Gavin Newsom as an example of how setting aside differences can lead to meaningful dialogue, while Delaney encourages listeners to intentionally consume media that challenges their existing viewpoints.
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Counterarguments
- While foreign governments may attempt to influence media, it's important to recognize that not all outreach or contact from foreign entities is nefarious; some may be part of legitimate public diplomacy efforts.
- The use of marketing firms and influencers is not unique to foreign entities; domestic groups also use these tactics to shape public opinion, and it's a standard part of modern public relations and advertising.
- The presence of bots and automated accounts is a significant issue, but it's also important to acknowledge the efforts of social media platforms to identify and mitigate these accounts. The effectiveness of these countermeasures can vary and should be part of the discussion.
- The idea that bots create an illusion of widespread support or opposition may be overstated in some cases, as the impact of bots on actual public opinion is complex and not fully understood.
- The claim that foreign interference, partisan rhetoric, and media bias are the primary contributors to societal division could be challenged by pointing out that societal division can also stem from genuine differences in values, beliefs, and policy preferences among the population.
- The "boy who cried wolf" analogy may oversimplify the complex reasons why public trust in institutions has eroded, which can include economic factors, political polarization, and social changes, not just government untruths.
- The role of media in contributing to division is a contentious issue, and some might argue that media simply reflects existing societal divisions rather than being a primary cause of them.
- The suggestion to challenge personal biases and seek diverse perspectives, while valuable, may not always lead to reduced division, as exposure to opposing views can sometimes increase polarization.
- The example of Governor Newsom and Ryan's experience is anecdotal and may not be representative of broader trends or applicable in all contexts of political or ideological division.
- The encouragement to consume media that challenges one's viewpoints is sound, but it's also important to consider the quality and credibility of sources, as not all media is created equal in terms of accuracy and reliability.
Actionables
- You can develop critical media literacy by creating a "truth portfolio" where you collect articles on the same event from multiple sources, including international media, and compare the narratives. This exercise sharpens your ability to discern bias and recognize foreign influence by highlighting discrepancies and commonalities in reporting, encouraging a more analytical approach to consuming news.
- Start a "perspective challenge" with friends or family where each person shares a piece of media that opposes their own viewpoint once a week, followed by a group discussion. This practice not only exposes you to different perspectives but also fosters an environment of open dialogue, helping to bridge societal divisions and enhance mutual understanding.
- Engage in "bot spotting" on social media platforms by learning the common characteristics of bots and automated accounts, such as repetitive posting patterns, lack of personal information, or high-volume activity on controversial topics. Once you identify potential bots, practice ignoring or reporting them to reduce their impact on your perception of public opinion, helping to maintain a clearer view of genuine discourse.
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Foreign Influence on Independent Media and Information Landscape
The information landscape is increasingly seeing the involvement of foreign entities through direct and indirect means. These attempts are not only targeting news platforms but also leveraging social media influencers to shape narratives and public opinion.
Foreign Governments Actively Attempting to Influence Independent Media
Jon Delaney stresses the active attempts by foreign governments to approach news outlets and influencers to propagate their narratives.
Uk Home Office Offers Partnerships and Narrative Shaping To Media Platforms
A concern has been voiced by Delaney regarding the ethical implications when foreign governments, such as the UK, reach out to U.S.-based media for potential collaborations on specific topics. Delaney received a direct message from the UK government on Instagram, showing a direct attempt to contact him and, possibly, influence public opinion on divisive issues.
Offers From Foreign Governments Target Divisive Topics to Influence Public Opinion
When Delaney was making a documentary in Ukraine, he attempted to interview both Russians and Ukrainians, including a doctor working for the Wagner Group who invited him to Moscow. This doctor downplayed the arrest of American journalists in Russia and openly suggested that the American media is misleading its citizens, inherently influencing public opinion.
Delaney also touches upon how international media might be controlled or funded by state entities, which may propagate an agenda that can be construed as propaganda.
Adversaries Using Marketing Firms to Pay Influencers to Push Narratives
Marketing Firms Hired Right-Leaning Influencers to Criticize Regulations, Often Mentioning Trump's Diet Coke Preference
Marketing firms have been hiring influencers to promote various narratives covertly. One such instance is a campaign to protest against government over-regulation, particularly in relation to food aid programs and the purchase of soda. Right-leaning influencers on a platform referred to as "X" have been implicated, and some have called out others for their roles in a campaign against the regulation of soda purchases through aid programs. The campaign included key messaging components that ranged from government overreach to economic concerns and personal choices.
Undisclosed Paid Partnerships Undermine Media Credibility, Allowing Foreign Actors to Covertly Shape Information
Delaney mentions Tenet Media and the practice of paying influencers to push pro-Russian talking points about the war in Ukraine. Some influencers, including Tim Pool and Benny Johnson, claimed ignorance of the Russian government's involvement and faced no charges und ...
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Foreign Influence on Independent Media and Information Landscape
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Actionables
- You can enhance your media literacy by creating a personal checklist to evaluate the credibility of online content. Start by noting the source of the information, checking for transparency in sponsorship, and researching the background of the influencers sharing the content. For example, if an influencer posts about a political issue, check if they disclose any partnerships and compare their message with reputable news sources to see if it aligns or seems biased.
- Develop a habit of cross-referencing news stories with multiple international and independent news outlets. When you come across a news piece or social media post on a divisive topic, look up the same story on platforms from different countries or on non-profit news organizations that are less likely to be influenced by foreign entities. This can help you see how narratives may be shaped by various interests.
- Engage in conversations with friends and family about ...
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Bots and Automated Accounts Manipulating Online Discourse
Shawn Ryan and Jon Delaney delve into how automated bots are masquerading as real users on social media and manipulating online discourse.
Real News Finds Bot Networks Rapidly Commenting On Posts
Ryan and Delaney discuss the sophisticated operations of Russian troll farms and their role in psychological warfare, as well as the pervasive issue of bot networks that swiftly comment on social media posts.
Bot Accounts Often Seem Genuine, Making Them Hard to Distinguish From Real People
Delaney brings to light the alarming rate at which bots comment on posts and the complexity of these comments. He reveals that over three years, they've restricted about a thousand bot accounts that seem all too genuine. Ryan and Delaney recount an instance where an AI-generated video was mistaken for real content, emphasizing the challenge in distinguishing between genuine interaction and manipulated content.
Goal: Shape Narratives and Influence Discussions, Not Just Drive Traffic
The true intention of the bots is not merely to drive traffic but to mold public discourse. Delaney discusses how bots and algorithms on platforms like "X" can shape people's opinions, drawing attention to how these automated systems gaslight users into believing they are engaging with real individuals. He mentions that these bots, which engage users in arguments, are part of a grander scheme to influence narratives and discussions.
Bot Activity Threatens Online Discourse Integrity, Creating Illusion of Widespread Support or Opposition
Delaney expresses concern over the bot networks' ability to sow division and disseminate false narratives, therefore manipulating public opinion.
Bot Networks Can Sow Division, Spread Disinformation, and Manipulate Opinion
The hosts elaborate on how bot networks can create the illusion of widespread support or opposition, affecting the integrity of online discourse. Delaney explai ...
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Bots and Automated Accounts Manipulating Online Discourse
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Actionables
- You can enhance your critical thinking by practicing the SIFT method: Stop, Investigate the source, Find better coverage, and Trace claims, quotes, and media to the original context. When you encounter a social media post with rapid commenting, take a moment to stop and reflect on the content. Investigate the source of the post and the profiles of those commenting to see if they have a history of similar comments on other posts, which could indicate bot activity. Look for better coverage by checking if reputable news sources are reporting on the same issue. Finally, trace the information back to its original context to ensure it's not being misrepresented.
- Develop a habit of cross-referencing information by using fact-checking websites and reverse image search tools. When you see a post with AI-generated video or images that seem too polished or evoke strong emotional reactions, use reverse image search tools like Google Images or TinEye to check if the content has appeared elsewhere in a different context. Additionally, visit fact-checking websites like Snopes, FactCheck.org, or the Poynter Institute's International Fact-Checking Network to verify the claims made in the post.
- Create a personal policy to engage in online dis ...
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Societal Division and Mistrust
Podcast hosts Jon Delaney and Shawn Ryan discuss the persistent mistrust and division eroding the foundations of democracy, worrying about the effect on society and how media, both mainstream and independent, as well as foreign interference, may be exacerbating these issues.
Podcast Hosts Worry Division, Distrust Erode Democracy Foundations
Delaney opens with concerns about pervasive distrust, exemplified by countries spying on one another and meddling in each other's affairs, which can erode democracy by manipulating public opinion and fostering division. He suggests that such tactics could lead to the internal collapse of a country through weaponized influence, creating division, and shifting narratives.
Ryan echoes Delaney's distress, citing a decline in the country and worries about the potential for violent conflict enhanced by the widespread availability of firearms and their competent use.
Parties and Media Worsen Issues With Partisan Rhetoric and Bias
Delaney discusses how decades of untruths from the government have eroded public trust, comparing it to the boy who cried wolf. He speculates about whether foreign governments have concocted theories to sow further distrust among the population. Ryan concurs, stating that the government has botched situations, thereby exacerbating distrust. Delaney mentions a Russian individual's warning about media manipulations similar to those in Russia, pointing out contradictions that fuel skepticism and distrust.
Reflecting on January 6th and the deep societal divide, Delaney notes the emotionally charged atmosphere where Republicans blame Democrats and vice versa. He observes how media outlets like CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News portray events in conflicting ways, contributing to division and confusion.
Delaney and Ryan discuss biased media reporting, such as how u.S. and Russian media differ in their narratives about military aid to Ukraine.
Independent Media's Rise Fails to Solve Agenda and Foreign Payment Accusations
Delaney talks about the rise of independent media during Trump’s presidency, exacerbated by media handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, instead of solving issues of bias, independent media faces similar accusations, including potential foreign influence. Delaney suggests that independent content creators can become trapped, covering certain topics incessantly and worsening division.
Ryan and Delaney express concerns about the integrity of independent journalists. They ponder whether mainstream media outlets have also accepted payments to push particular narratives.
Podcast Hosts Suggest Addressing the Problem By Challenging Biases, Seeking Diverse Perspectives, and Engaging In Nuanced Discussions
Urge Listeners to Escape Echo Chambers and Engage With Dif ...
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Societal Division and Mistrust
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Clarifications
- Weaponized influence involves using tactics to manipulate public opinion, sow discord, and create division within a society. Shifting narratives can involve changing the story or information presented to the public to serve a particular agenda or goal. When these tactics are employed on a large scale, they can lead to a breakdown in trust, social cohesion, and stability within a country, potentially contributing to its internal collapse. This process can weaken institutions, erode democratic principles, and exacerbate existing societal divisions, ultimately threatening the country's unity and functioning.
- In the context of media manipulations, comparisons between the U.S. and Russia often highlight tactics used to shape public opinion, control narratives, and influence political outcomes. Both countries have faced scrutiny for employing disinformation campaigns, propaganda, and biased reporting to sway public perception and sow distrust. These comparisons typically focus on the strategies employed by governments, media outlets, and other entities to manipulate information and shape societal beliefs. The aim is to draw parallels between how media influences are wielded in different political contexts to understand the impact on democracy and societal cohesion.
- Accusations of bias and potential foreign influence in independent media can arise due to concerns about the impartiality and credibility of news reporting. Independent media outlets, while not tied to government or corporate interests, may still face scrutiny for potential biases in their coverage. Allegations of foreign influence suggest that external entities could be funding or influencing the content produced by independent media organizations, raising questions about the sources of their funding and the agendas they may serve.
- Echo chambers are environments where individuals are primarily exposed to information that aligns with their existing beliefs, creating a feedback loop that reinforces those beliefs. Biased portrayals in media can contribute to this phenomenon by presenting information in a way that confirms the audience's preconceptio ...
Counterarguments
- Concerns about mistrust and division eroding democracy could be countered by pointing out that democracy is resilient and has mechanisms for self-correction.
- The role of foreign interference might be overstated when compared to domestic factors that contribute to societal division.
- The availability of firearms does not necessarily lead to violent conflict; responsible gun ownership and effective law enforcement can mitigate this risk.
- Government untruths eroding public trust could be seen as a call for more transparency and accountability rather than an irreversible trend.
- Media outlets contribute to division, but they also provide a platform for diverse opinions and investigative journalism that can foster informed public debate.
- Independent media's bias and foreign influence accusations might overlook the value of alternative viewpoints and the critical thinking skills of the audience.
- Concerns about the integrity of independent journalists may not account for the rigorous ethical standards many such journalists adhere to.
- The suggestion that mainstream media outlets accept payments to push narratives could be challenged by the strict editorial standards and journalistic ethics that reputable outlets maintain.
- The idea of a president and vice president from different parties might not be practical or effective given the current political structure and might not address the underlying ...
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