Beyond the Buzz

Beyond the Ballot: Unmasking Power in American Democracy

In this week’s episode, “Beyond the Ballot: Unmasking Power in American Democracy,” we examine Shahid Bolsen’s provocative take on American democracy. Bolsen, the host of Middle Nation, argues that corporate interests and unelected forces wield more power than elected officials. From campaign finance to media influence, we explore his claim that the electoral system serves as a “campaign industrial complex” designed to maintain the status quo. Tune in as we unpack Bolsen’s analysis, discuss its implications, and explore what this means for citizens who want to reclaim their voice in a system he believes is designed to control them.

Shadows of Stillwater: Episode Four - Vengeance

In Episode 4 of Beyond the Buzz, Claire, Aaron, and Eliza come face-to-face with the darkest force behind Stillwater’s curse. With the fog’s grip tightening around the town, the trio uncovers the horrifying truth about the blood ritual that binds Stillwater to its haunted past—a pact made by the town’s founders, born of vengeance and sustained by generations of sacrifice. As the fog draws the spirits of the cursed ever closer, townspeople begin acting out violent, ancestral memories, unaware of the shadows controlling them.
Desperate to end the cycle, Claire, Aaron, and Eliza confront an ancient force that has fed on Stillwater’s sins, a force determined to keep its secrets buried at any cost. Together, they attempt to break the curse, but they quickly realize that freeing Stillwater may come with a price they’re unprepared to pay. In Shadows of Vengeance, the past collides with the present, forcing the trio to make an impossible choice as they stand on the edge of darkness.

Shadows of Stillwater: Episode Three -Echoes of The Past

Step into Stillwater, a town where the fog holds more than just shadows. Beyond the Buzz follows three unlikely investigators - Claire, Aaron, and Eliza - as they unravel the dark mysteries of their seemingly quiet New England town. What begins as an investigation into mysterious disappearances quickly spirals into something far more sinister.
Every seventeen years, people vanish without a trace. Memories fade, photographs change and the fog that blankets the town grows thicker with each passing day. When Claire starts seeing symbols from her nightmares appear on her walls, Aaron recovers suppressed memories of a ritual he witnessed as a child, and Eliza discovers her bloodline connects to an ancient feud, they realize their connection to Stillwater's curse runs deeper than anyone could have imagined.

Shadows of Stillwater: Episode Two -Whispers in The Dark

In Episode 2 of Beyond the Buzz, we return to the eerie town of Stillwater, where the fog grows thicker, and the past refuses to stay silent. Claire, Aaron, and Eliza each find themselves drawn deeper into the town’s dark mysteries, encountering visions, whispers, and shadows that leave them questioning what’s real and what’s a haunting echo of history.
As they uncover clues buried in library archives, abandoned case files, and the ominous symbols carved into the trees, the three realize they’re not just chasing ghosts—they’re being called. But by whom? And for what purpose?
Tune in as our protagonists step further into the unknown, and discover that some secrets in Stillwater aren’t meant to be unearthed. Prepare yourself for an episode filled with spine-tingling encounters, ancient warnings, and a chilling summons that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Justice Across Borders: Unraveling Cold Cases and Abuse of Power

In this riveting episode, we delve into the complexities of delayed justice, exploring two high-profile cases from recent Department of Justice press releases. We uncover the chilling details of Amanda Gonzalez's murder, a case that remained unsolved for over two decades, and the disturbing serial abuse by Brian Jeffrey Raymond, a former U.S. Government employee.Join us as we examine the role of international cooperation and digital evidence in bringing these perpetrators to justice. Discover how advancements in forensic science and technology have transformed cold case investigations, offering new hope for victims and their families. We also tackle the broader implications of these cases, discussing the abuse of power, the importance of accountability, and the ethical challenges of using technology in both committing and solving crimes. Through insightful analysis, we explore how society can better support victims and prevent future abuses.This episode serves as a powerful reminder that justice, though sometimes delayed, remains relentless and far-reaching, urging us to work collectively towards a safer and more just world.

Unmasking the Shadows: Pandemic Fraud and Celebrity Crime

In this eye-opening episode of Beyond the Buzz, we delve into the unsettling world of pandemic relief exploitation and celebrity crime. Join us as we uncover the intricate schemes that have marred pandemic assistance programs and explore the blurred lines between fame, fraud, and legal repercussions.
We begin in Riverside, California, where two women, Vanessa Williams and Denise Mata, face charges for allegedly orchestrating a $3.5 million fraud scheme targeting pandemic relief loans. Learn how they manipulated the Paycheck Protection Program, leaving genuine small businesses in the lurch, and discover the efforts of the Department of Justice's COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to combat such abuses.
Next, we shift our focus to the high-profile case of Grammy-nominated rapper Lil Durk. Accused of conspiring in a murder for hire, we discuss the dark side of celebrity life, the impact of violent retaliation, and the responsibilities of public figures in discouraging violence.
Finally, we travel to Georgia, where Tishian Hicks was sentenced for leading one of the largest COVID-19 fraud schemes, stealing identities to pocket around $30 million. This case underscores the critical need for data security and public awareness in preventing identity theft.
Join us as we navigate these compelling stories, questioning the balance between speed and security in relief programs, and the accountability of celebrities in crime. Share your thoughts and tune in next time for more untold stories beyond the headlines.

Shadows of Stillwater - Episode One

Welcome to Shadows of Stillwater, a place where the past refuses to stay buried. This is not your typical quiet town. Tucked away in the mountains, hidden beneath a thick canopy of mist, Stillwater seems frozen in time—yet something dark and restless stirs beneath its surface.

Young Thug has been released from custody and sentenced to time served

Final Takeaway for Listeners: Reflect on how interconnected these stories are—from the criminal justice system to the music industry and political stage—highlighting the pressures public figures face under the constant spotlight. Emphasize the ongoing impact of these cases, urging listeners to think critically about what they consume and the importance of staying informed.