Interview • Mike Rothschild: Qanon Expert Talks With Ex Conspiracy Theorist

Hello Initiates, and welcome to Some Dare Call It Conspiracy.

In this episode, we are joined by journalist and conspiracy culture expert Mike Rothschild for a deep and wide ranging conversation on how conspiracy theories have moved from the fringes into the mainstream.

Drawing on decades of research and observation, Mike breaks down the mechanics of belief. We explore everything from the strange persistence of the Iraqi dinar scam to the long standing myth that powerful banking families secretly control the global economy. Along the way, we look at how financial illiteracy and uncertainty make these ideas feel convincing and accessible.

Brent also reflects on his own past experiences with conspiratorial thinking, offering insight into the emotional pull these narratives can have. This is not just about misinformation. It is about identity, community, and the sense of belonging that conspiracy theories can provide.

A major focus of the episode is QAnon. Rather than treating it as a single theory, we examine it as a flexible belief system that adapts to its audience. Mike explains how it taps into real world anxieties, especially around money and stability, and turns them into simple explanations that feel empowering.

We also trace the evolution of conspiracy culture over time. From pre 9 11 communities to the rise of internet forums, and into the mid 2010s where these ideas became increasingly politicised. The discussion highlights how conspiracy thinking became more closely aligned with political movements, particularly during and after the 2016 presidential campaign of Donald Trump.

The COVID 19 pandemic is explored as a turning point. A period of global uncertainty that allowed conspiracy theories to spread faster and reach further than ever before. What was once considered fringe began to feel normal, with serious real world consequences.

Mike also shares insight into the events surrounding January 6, and the dangers that arise when conspiratorial belief begins to influence political action and public behaviour.

Finally, we look at how to respond. Rather than simply debunking claims, the conversation focuses on understanding why people are drawn to these ideas in the first place. Clear communication and an awareness of the psychological drivers behind belief may be the most effective way to reduce their impact.

This is a grounded and honest conversation about the persistence of conspiracy theories and the very human reasons they continue to thrive.


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Some Dare Call It Conspiracy is an award-winning podcast that examines conspiracy theories, misinformation, and moral panics — not from the outside, but from the inside.

The show is co-created and hosted by Brent Lee and Neil Sanders, both former insiders in the conspiracy world who spent years immersed in conspiracy belief, alternative media, and grassroots activism before walking away. Their experience gives them first-hand insight into how conspiracy narratives are built, why they feel so convincing, and why leaving those communities can be difficult.

Drawing on lived experience, deep research, and expert interviews — alongside a distinctly British sense of humour — the podcast breaks down conspiracy culture with clarity and bite. Episodes vary in format, but all focus on who benefits when misinformation spreads, how harm is done, and how bad ideas gain influence.

The result is a show that is sceptical without being smug, serious about real-world consequences without losing its edge, and unafraid to call out grift and power where it thrives.

Join us to discover where the truth… lies.

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