The John Batchelor Show

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S8 Ep1112: Thomas Savidge warns that the US national debt is reaching dangerous levels relative to GDP. He explains that rising interest cos Jul 10, 2026

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Thomas Savidge warns that the US national debt is reaching dangerous levels relative to GDP. He explains that rising interest costs are now exceeding national defense spending, which threatens to stifle the productive economy and lead to a decreased standard of living for the average American taxpayer. (13)
1865

S8 Ep1112: Josh Dean summarizes Kelly Johnson's 14 rules, emphasizing simplicity and speed. These principles required small teams and minima Jul 10, 2026

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Josh Dean summarizes Kelly Johnson's 14 rules, emphasizing simplicity and speed. These principles required small teams and minimal paperwork to innovate effectively. Before passing away in 1990, Johnson witnessed a final emotional flyover of his iconic Blackbird, marking the end of a legendary aviation era. (12)
1962

S8 Ep1112: Josh Dean highlights Kelly Johnson's struggle with anxiety and health, alongside the emergence of stealth technology. Under his s Jul 10, 2026

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Josh Dean highlights Kelly Johnson's struggle with anxiety and health, alongside the emergence of stealth technology. Under his successor Ben Rich, Skunk Works developed the F-117 Nighthawk. Utilizing facets to scatter radar, this "hopeless diamond" proved that an invisible plane was mathematically possible. (11)

S8 Ep1112: Josh Dean recounts Kelly Johnson's creation of the world's first drone for reconnaissance and his failed pitch for an A-12 bomber Jul 10, 2026

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Josh Dean recounts Kelly Johnson's creation of the world's first drone for reconnaissance and his failed pitch for an A-12 bomber. He clashed with Defense Secretary Robert McNamara, who ordered the destruction of A-12 tools. The segment also highlights Johnson's personal life on his California ranch. (10)
1962 CUBAN MISSILE CRISIS

S8 Ep1112: Josh Dean explores the Area 51 mysteries and the Gary Powers incident. Many UFO sightings were actually spy planes like the U-2, Jul 10, 2026

Show notes

Josh Dean explores the Area 51 mysteries and the Gary Powers incident. Many UFO sightings were actually spy planes like the U-2, tested in secret. Despite the shootdown of Powers in 1960, Johnson had already begun developing the Mach 3.2 Blackbird to maintain an intelligence advantage. (9)
1962 CUBA

S8 Ep1112: Josh Dean details the CIA-led U-2 program, designed for high-altitude reconnaissance over the Soviet Union. To achieve 70,000 fee Jul 10, 2026

Show notes

Josh Dean details the CIA-led U-2 program, designed for high-altitude reconnaissance over the Soviet Union. To achieve 70,000 feet, Johnson created a lightweight glider-like plane. This required the invention of specialized pressure suits for pilots, providing nearly 75% of intelligence gathered during the Cold War. (8)
1951

S8 Ep1112: Josh Dean explains the Skunk Works method through the development of the F-104 Starfighter. Johnson demanded total control and mi Jul 10, 2026

Show notes

Josh Dean explains the Skunk Works method through the development of the F-104 Starfighter. Johnson demanded total control and minimal oversight from the Air Force, focusing on speed and climb. His test pilots, including Tony LeVier, formed an intimate, trusted team that operated like "cowboys". (7)
1951

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