<![CDATA[Sifted Stories • With John Ferreira]]>https://www.sifter.newsRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Thu, 28 May 2026 15:38:26 GMTFri, 03 Apr 2026 04:55:10 GMT60John FerreiraSifted Stories is a long-form podcast hosted by John Ferreira. Chat with people I find genuinely interesting and let the conversation go where it goes — ideas, experiences, beliefs, work, mistakes, discoveries, and how people make sense of the world. I’m particularly interested in health, decision-making, and how information shapes our choices. I’m also building HealthScan and Sifter News, so those themes naturally come up — but there’s no fixed topic or agenda. Just open, curious conversations.episodicJohn Ferreirajohnferreira@gmail.comno<![CDATA[#4 • Johnny Vedmore | Investigative Journalist]]>Summary

In this conversation, John Ferreira and Johnny Vedmore delve into the complexities of influential figures like Peter Thiel, the evolution of political ideologies, and the impact of economic migration. They explore the concept of 'Third Way' politics, the role of the Intellectual Dark Web, and the challenges of navigating trust and influence in today's society. The discussion also touches on censorship, information control, and the future of societal discourse in an increasingly digital world. In this conversation, Johnny Vedmore and John Ferreira delve into the complexities of modern political figures, the influence of behavioral economics, and the manipulation of public perception. They discuss the evolution of political personas, particularly focusing on figures like RFK Jr., and the underlying systems of control that shape their narratives. The dialogue also touches on the role of education in fostering critical thinking, the implications of nuclear proliferation, and the intricate web of connections surrounding the Epstein case, ultimately questioning the nature of power and accountability in contemporary society.


Takeaways

Peter Thiel's unique mental framework influences his decisions.

The concept of 'Third Way' politics aims to transcend traditional left-right paradigms.

Political ideologies are closely tied to technological advancements.

Economic migration has significant societal impacts, often leading to cultural destabilization.

Influencers like Jordan Peterson shape public discourse and perceptions.

Trust and influence are critical in navigating today's information landscape.

Censorship is a tool used to control narratives and public opinion.

The future of information dissemination is uncertain and chaotic.

People often resist change due to entrenched beliefs.

The mainstream media landscape is evolving, adapting to digital realities. Political figures often evolve to fit new narratives.

Behavioral economics plays a significant role in manipulation.

Critical thinking is essential to counteract societal control.

Education systems often fail to teach logical reasoning.

The Epstein case reveals deep connections in power structures.

Nuclear proliferation is a tool of geopolitical strategy.

RFK Jr. represents a manufactured antithesis in politics.

Manipulation often relies on exploiting personal weaknesses.

The narrative around Epstein is complex and multifaceted.

Global governance is a key factor in modern political dynamics.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Johnny Vedmore

05:49 The Third Way Politics: A New Paradigm

11:18 The Impact of Third Way Politics on Elections

17:06 Economic Migration and Its Consequences

22:33 The Dynamics of Control and Influence in Media

28:19 The Transformation of Public Figures

39:40 Behind the Curtain: Trust and Instinct

46:20 Censorship and the Struggle for Visibility

56:20 Breaking Worldviews: Conversations in the Pub

01:06:41 The Challenge of Communication: Language and Understanding

01:15:12 The Hidden Influencers Behind Wealth

01:25:41 The Role of Logic in Critical Thinking

01:33:53 Intelligence Operations and Military Technology

01:44:42 Epstein: A Multi-Purpose Tool in Power Dynamics

01:49:45 The Influence of Family Legacy

01:55:19 Environmentalism and Its Roots

02:02:16 The Role of Global Governance

02:07:32 Conversations on Complex Issues



]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/johnferreira/episodes/4--Johnny-Vedmore--Investigative-Journalist-e2rlds5f00ac6b6-443e-4ed1-98d0-f26b5d44512fFri, 29 Nov 2024 10:23:14 GMT<p><strong>Summary</strong></p> <p>In this conversation, John Ferreira and Johnny Vedmore delve into the complexities of influential figures like Peter Thiel, the evolution of political ideologies, and the impact of economic migration. They explore the concept of 'Third Way' politics, the role of the Intellectual Dark Web, and the challenges of navigating trust and influence in today's society. The discussion also touches on censorship, information control, and the future of societal discourse in an increasingly digital world. In this conversation, Johnny Vedmore and John Ferreira delve into the complexities of modern political figures, the influence of behavioral economics, and the manipulation of public perception. They discuss the evolution of political personas, particularly focusing on figures like RFK Jr., and the underlying systems of control that shape their narratives. The dialogue also touches on the role of education in fostering critical thinking, the implications of nuclear proliferation, and the intricate web of connections surrounding the Epstein case, ultimately questioning the nature of power and accountability in contemporary society.</p> <p><br /></p> <p><strong>Takeaways</strong></p> <p>Peter Thiel's unique mental framework influences his decisions.</p> <p>The concept of 'Third Way' politics aims to transcend traditional left-right paradigms.</p> <p>Political ideologies are closely tied to technological advancements.</p> <p>Economic migration has significant societal impacts, often leading to cultural destabilization.</p> <p>Influencers like Jordan Peterson shape public discourse and perceptions.</p> <p>Trust and influence are critical in navigating today's information landscape.</p> <p>Censorship is a tool used to control narratives and public opinion.</p> <p>The future of information dissemination is uncertain and chaotic.</p> <p>People often resist change due to entrenched beliefs.</p> <p>The mainstream media landscape is evolving, adapting to digital realities. Political figures often evolve to fit new narratives.</p> <p>Behavioral economics plays a significant role in manipulation.</p> <p>Critical thinking is essential to counteract societal control.</p> <p>Education systems often fail to teach logical reasoning.</p> <p>The Epstein case reveals deep connections in power structures.</p> <p>Nuclear proliferation is a tool of geopolitical strategy.</p> <p>RFK Jr. represents a manufactured antithesis in politics.</p> <p>Manipulation often relies on exploiting personal weaknesses.</p> <p>The narrative around Epstein is complex and multifaceted.</p> <p>Global governance is a key factor in modern political dynamics.</p> <p><br /></p> <p><strong>Chapters</strong></p> <p>00:00 Introduction and Background of Johnny Vedmore</p> <p>05:49 The Third Way Politics: A New Paradigm</p> <p>11:18 The Impact of Third Way Politics on Elections</p> <p>17:06 Economic Migration and Its Consequences</p> <p>22:33 The Dynamics of Control and Influence in Media</p> <p>28:19 The Transformation of Public Figures</p> <p>39:40 Behind the Curtain: Trust and Instinct</p> <p>46:20 Censorship and the Struggle for Visibility</p> <p>56:20 Breaking Worldviews: Conversations in the Pub</p> <p>01:06:41 The Challenge of Communication: Language and Understanding</p> <p>01:15:12 The Hidden Influencers Behind Wealth</p> <p>01:25:41 The Role of Logic in Critical Thinking</p> <p>01:33:53 Intelligence Operations and Military Technology</p> <p>01:44:42 Epstein: A Multi-Purpose Tool in Power Dynamics</p> <p>01:49:45 The Influence of Family Legacy</p> <p>01:55:19 Environmentalism and Its Roots</p> <p>02:02:16 The Role of Global Governance</p> <p>02:07:32 Conversations on Complex Issues</p> <p><br /></p> <p><br /></p> no02:09:5014#4 • Johnny Vedmore | Investigative Journalistfull<![CDATA[#2 • Iain Davis | Independent investigative journalist, blogger and author]]>Summary:

Ian Davis, a blogger and researcher, discusses his journey into investigative research and journalism. He emphasises the importance of independent research and critical thinking, as well as the need to question and verify information from various sources. Davis shares his research process, which involves examining primary sources, analysing methodology, and cross-referencing information.

He also highlights the challenges of accessing and archiving information in the face of increasing censorship. Collaboration with other researchers is seen as valuable for sharing insights and discovering new information. The conversation explores the importance of critical thinking and the need to question information from trusted sources.

It delves into the centralisation of control and the existence of global power structures. The discussion highlights the manipulation of events to push certain agendas, such as the push for a global digital ID database. The conversation emphasises the need for independent thinking and collaboration across different perspectives to uncover the truth.


Iain's Links:

Website: https://iaindavis.com

SubStack: https://iaindavis.substack.com


Chapters

00:00 • Introduction and Interest in Critical Thinking

02:21 • Building a Tool for Independent Researchers

03:14 • Journey into Research and Journalism Investigation

06:33 • Transition to Full-Time Writing and Blogging

09:27 • Using Social Media and Shadow Banning

10:19 • Importance of Accessing Information from Various Sources

13:36 • Research Process and Critical Thinking

18:49 • Collecting and Organising Information

21:09 • Challenges in Searching Through Documents

24:01 • Technical Difficulties and Uploading Video

25:03 • Searching for Sources and Documents

26:31 • Unlocking Paywalled Studies

27:53 • Analyzing Government Reports and Documents

29:20 • Advantages of Online Access to Information

30:15 • Maintaining Access to Information and the Censorship Agenda

32:07 • Collaboration and Collective Research to Counter Censorship

39:02 • The Power of Critical Thinking in Analyzing Information

45:09 • Finding Common Ground Across Political Ideologies

52:41 • Following and Supporting the Speaker's Work


Sound Bites

"I come at it from a kind of critical thinking perspective."

"I'm very keen to also maintain my own blog because I'm able to reach out to my relatively small audience."

"I start with the methodology and find out well, how did they work out? Whatever this conclusion is supposed to be."

"I think it's really important that we maintain access to information in this way. And obviously the censorship agenda that is obviously being rolled out."

"It's really important or one of the ideas to try and collectivize people's research."

"What are those things that you've found or would like to find that it's kind of like that aha moment, ah, that's connected to this thing."

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/johnferreira/episodes/2--Iain-Davis--Independent-investigative-journalist--blogger-and-author-e2nfts7d2b0c095-591d-4902-86db-c7cae3b8e0dbThu, 22 Aug 2024 11:02:31 GMT<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p> <p>Ian Davis, a blogger and researcher, discusses his journey into investigative research and journalism. He emphasises the importance of independent research and critical thinking, as well as the need to question and verify information from various sources. Davis shares his research process, which involves examining primary sources, analysing methodology, and cross-referencing information. </p> <p>He also highlights the challenges of accessing and archiving information in the face of increasing censorship. Collaboration with other researchers is seen as valuable for sharing insights and discovering new information. The conversation explores the importance of critical thinking and the need to question information from trusted sources. </p> <p>It delves into the centralisation of control and the existence of global power structures. The discussion highlights the manipulation of events to push certain agendas, such as the push for a global digital ID database. The conversation emphasises the need for independent thinking and collaboration across different perspectives to uncover the truth.</p> <p><br /></p> <p><strong>Iain's Links:</strong></p> <p>Website: <a href="https://iaindavis.com" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://iaindavis.com</a></p> <p>SubStack: <a href="https://iaindavis.substack.com" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://iaindavis.substack.com</a></p> <p><br /></p> <p><strong>Chapters</strong></p> <p>00:00 • Introduction and Interest in Critical Thinking</p> <p>02:21 • Building a Tool for Independent Researchers</p> <p>03:14 • Journey into Research and Journalism Investigation</p> <p>06:33 • Transition to Full-Time Writing and Blogging</p> <p>09:27 • Using Social Media and Shadow Banning</p> <p>10:19 • Importance of Accessing Information from Various Sources</p> <p>13:36 • Research Process and Critical Thinking</p> <p>18:49 • Collecting and Organising Information</p> <p>21:09 • Challenges in Searching Through Documents</p> <p>24:01 • Technical Difficulties and Uploading Video</p> <p>25:03 • Searching for Sources and Documents</p> <p>26:31 • Unlocking Paywalled Studies</p> <p>27:53 • Analyzing Government Reports and Documents</p> <p>29:20 • Advantages of Online Access to Information</p> <p>30:15 • Maintaining Access to Information and the Censorship Agenda</p> <p>32:07 • Collaboration and Collective Research to Counter Censorship</p> <p>39:02 • The Power of Critical Thinking in Analyzing Information</p> <p>45:09 • Finding Common Ground Across Political Ideologies</p> <p>52:41 • Following and Supporting the Speaker's Work</p> <p><br /></p> <p><strong>Sound Bites</strong></p> <p>"I come at it from a kind of critical thinking perspective."</p> <p>"I'm very keen to also maintain my own blog because I'm able to reach out to my relatively small audience."</p> <p>"I start with the methodology and find out well, how did they work out? Whatever this conclusion is supposed to be."</p> <p>"I think it's really important that we maintain access to information in this way. And obviously the censorship agenda that is obviously being rolled out."</p> <p>"It's really important or one of the ideas to try and collectivize people's research."</p> <p>"What are those things that you've found or would like to find that it's kind of like that aha moment, ah, that's connected to this thing."</p> no00:57:5512#2 • Iain Davis | Independent investigative journalist, blogger and authorfull<![CDATA[#1 • John Ferreira | Sifter Intro]]>This podcast episode introduces Sifter, a company focused on bringing light to what is true and real and mitigating against manipulation. The host, John Ferreira, discusses the purpose of the podcast, which is to invite people to talk about their research and how they find information. He explains the concept of truth decentralization and the importance of critical thinking. John also provides an overview of the four stages of Sifter: research, check, tell, and aggregate. He showcases an MVP of the sourcing, analysis, and distribution stage and gives examples of research projects. The episode concludes with an invitation for future guests and the plan to integrate AI into the platform.


Website: Sifter.news

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/johnferreira/episodes/1--John-Ferreira--Sifter-Intro-e2m6covdfd07b2a-cd6f-437e-ab66-a42cdf45f2a7Thu, 18 Jul 2024 17:20:42 GMT<p>This podcast episode introduces Sifter, a company focused on bringing light to what is true and real and mitigating against manipulation. The host, John Ferreira, discusses the purpose of the podcast, which is to invite people to talk about their research and how they find information. He explains the concept of truth decentralization and the importance of critical thinking. John also provides an overview of the four stages of Sifter: research, check, tell, and aggregate. He showcases an MVP of the sourcing, analysis, and distribution stage and gives examples of research projects. The episode concludes with an invitation for future guests and the plan to integrate AI into the platform.</p> <p><br /></p> <p>Website: <a href="www.sifter.news" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Sifter.news</a></p> no00:12:5911#1 • John Ferreira | Sifter Introfull<![CDATA[#3 • Jan Michał | Ethnographic Researcher]]>The conversation covers various topics, including research, cataloging, intentional communities, and music curation. The guest, Jan, discusses his journey into research and how his passion for cataloging and collecting led him to become a researcher. He shares his experience studying intentional communities like Christiania and Auroville, exploring their dynamics and whether they can be considered utopias. The conversation also delves into the process of music curation, with Jan explaining his meticulous approach to creating playlists based on specific themes and genres. In this conversation, John Ferreira discusses his process of curating music playlists and the challenges he faces. He also explores the idea of using data and research to create curated experiences in other areas, such as travel and cultural exploration. The conversation touches on themes of counterculture, social cohesion, and the importance of individuality within a collective society. John also provides insights into his own research methods and suggests ways to improve the research process.


Sound Bites

"I became a researcher out of pragmatism, trying to be helpful and useful"

"I wanted to see for myself if there's any truth to the gossip about utopias"

"Research helps to visualize the dependencies within a community and understand its sustainability"

"I've been curating playlists for about four or five years now. I started in the 1920s and made my way to the 2000s."

"To me, sound can be either warm or cold. Some songs are really cold, some are very warm."

"When researching a new place, I'm more curious about the counterculture and the curiosities that align with my own interests."

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/johnferreira/episodes/3--Jan-Micha--Ethnographic-Researcher-e2nfukqf20af96c-5911-4ca4-8db2-cbb787958f3bThu, 29 Aug 2024 11:20:00 GMT<p>The conversation covers various topics, including research, cataloging, intentional communities, and music curation. The guest, Jan, discusses his journey into research and how his passion for cataloging and collecting led him to become a researcher. He shares his experience studying intentional communities like Christiania and Auroville, exploring their dynamics and whether they can be considered utopias. The conversation also delves into the process of music curation, with Jan explaining his meticulous approach to creating playlists based on specific themes and genres. In this conversation, John Ferreira discusses his process of curating music playlists and the challenges he faces. He also explores the idea of using data and research to create curated experiences in other areas, such as travel and cultural exploration. The conversation touches on themes of counterculture, social cohesion, and the importance of individuality within a collective society. John also provides insights into his own research methods and suggests ways to improve the research process.</p> <p><br /></p> <p>Sound Bites</p> <p>"I became a researcher out of pragmatism, trying to be helpful and useful"</p> <p>"I wanted to see for myself if there's any truth to the gossip about utopias"</p> <p>"Research helps to visualize the dependencies within a community and understand its sustainability"</p> <p>"I've been curating playlists for about four or five years now. I started in the 1920s and made my way to the 2000s."</p> <p>"To me, sound can be either warm or cold. Some songs are really cold, some are very warm."</p> <p>"When researching a new place, I'm more curious about the counterculture and the curiosities that align with my own interests."</p> no00:51:4611#3 • Jan Michał | Ethnographic Researcherfull