Advertise on podcast: Need To Know

In this Need to Know episode, Bryce Zabel and Richard Dolan take a deep, methodical look at the reality of UFO crash retrievals, treating the subject not as speculation but as a serious historical and structural question. Dolan draws on decades of research, particularly the work of Leonard Stringfield and other major investigators, to explain why crashes are not incompatible with advanced non-human technology. They explore early cases such as Roswell, Magenta (1933 Italy), Trinity (1945), Aztec (1948), and later incidents, arguing that a pattern of recoveries has existed far longer than most people realize. The discussion reframes the common objection that advanced craft "shouldn't crash," emphasizing traffic volume, imperfect systems, and the possibility of smaller deployed vehicles rather than interstellar motherships    The conversation then shifts to how such a secret could persist for decades, with Dolan outlining a legal and institutional framework rooted in post–World War II atomic secrecy laws. He explains how crash materials could be automatically classified, funneled into compartmentalized systems, and increasingly migrated to private contractors like Battelle, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop, limiting congressional oversight and public access. They also examine the controversial Majestic-12 recovery manual, debating whether it represents authentic documentation or sophisticated disinformation. The episode closes with reflections on the global nature of retrievals, the power struggles now emerging in Congress, and the emotional impact of the news surrounding Nick Pope's health, underscoring both the human and historical weight of the subject and why crash retrievals remain one of the most consequential unresolved issues in the UFO field 

In this Need to Know year-end special, Bryce Zabel and Richard Dolan look back at 2025 as a year defined less by breakthroughs and more by normalization, confusion, and institutional digestion of the UAP issue. They revisit major moments including congressional hearings, the drone wave that flared and faded without resolution, the rise and limits of documentaries like Age of Disclosure, and high-profile figures such as Marco Rubio and Lue Elizondo. A recurring theme is the paradox of progress without clarity: more official attention, more testimony, more media coverage, yet no decisive evidence or conceptual resolution, leaving the public both validated and frustrated    Looking ahead to 2026, both hosts express skepticism that traditional disclosure is imminent. Dolan argues the phenomenon is being absorbed into bureaucracy as a permanent governance issue rather than treated as a mystery to be solved, while Zabel points to culture as the real accelerator, especially with Steven Spielberg's upcoming film Disclosure Day potentially shaping public perception more than government action. Together, they suggest the future of the UFO question may hinge not on official revelation, but on cultural shifts, independent research, and the possibility of an undeniable event that forces the issue into the open.

In this special Need to Know episode, Bryce Zabel is joined by longtime collaborator Brent Friedman for a deep dive into the newly released trailer for Disclosure Day, Steven Spielberg's upcoming UFO themed film set for release in 2026. The conversation frames the trailer as a cultural moment, noting its massive early viewership and the broader rise in public interest following recent projects like Age of Disclosure. Zabel and Friedman position the trailer as more than marketing, treating it as a dense piece of visual storytelling packed with symbolism, spiritual themes, and long standing UFO lore.   The bulk of the episode is a shot by shot analysis of the trailer, exploring imagery such as animals appearing as messengers, religious symbolism, possession themes, shapeshifting, crop circles, elite control centers, and a worldwide disclosure event that bypasses governments entirely. The hosts speculate that the film suggests disclosure may come directly from non human intelligence rather than political institutions, reflecting growing public distrust in official narratives. They discuss how Spielberg appears to blend fear, wonder, and spirituality, presenting disclosure not as an invasion story but as an ontological reckoning that forces humanity to confront meaning, belief, and truth.   The episode also features a major announcement: Zabel and Friedman are launching a new 36 episode podcast titled Sound, Light, and Frequency, produced with iHeart Podcasts. The series will explore UFO history, Hollywood's role in shaping the phenomenon, and their own extraordinary experiences surrounding the creation of Dark Skies, including an alleged government approach related to soft disclosure. The show is positioned as a long form, reflective exploration of secrecy, storytelling, and consciousness. The episode closes with framing Disclosure Day as a cinematic rehearsal for real world disclosure and a hopeful signal that humanity may be ready for a deeper understanding of its place in the universe.

In this episode of Need to Know, Richard Dolan and Bryce Zabel break down the newly released documentary Age of Disclosure. They frame it as one of the strongest insider-driven treatments yet, highlighting its focus on government officials, intelligence veterans, scientists, and military figures who openly discuss crash retrievals, non-human intelligences, legacy programs, and decades of secrecy. Both hosts note that the documentary lands at a moment where cultural, political, and media attitudes toward UFOs have shifted dramatically. Mainstream outlets like CNN and Fox now discuss the subject without ridicule, and high-level voices like Marco Rubio, Hal Puthoff, Eric Davis, and Lue Elizondo speak more freely than ever before. The film, they argue, captures this moment of accelerating transparency.  Dolan and Zabel explore several major themes raised in the documentary: the long-running battle between "legacy" crash-retrieval programs and a reformer faction trying to force disclosure; the rarity of hard evidence due to intense classification; the gravity of claims like Roswell recoveries, bodies, and craft with space-time distortions; and the emerging recognition that USOs and oceanic activity may be central to the phenomenon. They emphasize that many of the figures featured—especially Puthoff, Davis, Mellon, Stratton, and Elizondo—are credible, deeply embedded insiders who have carefully chosen how far they can speak without violating classification. The documentary's high production value and careful presentation also set it apart from most UFO media, making it a potential reference point for newcomers and longtime followers alike. The hosts conclude that Age of Disclosure is not "Disclosure" itself, but rather a significant milestone marking a cultural shift. They see the film as a snapshot of a world entering an era where secrecy is harder to maintain and insider testimony is becoming unavoidable. The documentary, they argue, is more of a conversation catalyst than an end point—an artifact of a system cracking under its own weight, where insiders feel increasingly liberated to speak and the public grows more prepared to hear it. Whether or not it triggers political action, they believe it will be remembered as part of the slow but undeniable march toward greater transparency around the UAP issue.

In this episode, Bryce Zabel and Chrissy Newton dive into Mirage Men, a provocative and unsettling exploration of how UFO mythology has been manipulated and, at times, manufactured by intelligence agencies. The discussion centers on the book's central thesis — that much of what we think we know about UFOs may have been deliberately seeded by government operatives to cover up classified projects or sow disinformation. Names like Richard Doty and Paul Bennewitz are examined as case studies in psychological operations, raising questions about just how much of the UFO lore is organic versus orchestrated. Weaponized Myth or Truth in Disguise? The episode unpacks the troubling implications for researchers and experiencers alike. The book suggests that belief in non-human intelligence may have been stoked as part of long-running counterintelligence campaigns, leaving a trail of confusion and paranoia in their wake. The conversation also explores how this manipulation might have impacted the broader UFO community — creating divisions, muddying waters, and casting long shadows over genuine phenomena. The hosts balance skepticism with open-mindedness, probing whether Mirage Men reveals deception, deeper truths, or perhaps both.  The Relevance for Today's Disclosure Landscape The episode closes by drawing sharp parallels between the events in Mirage Men and today's disclosure efforts. With recent whistleblower testimony and government acknowledgments, listeners are asked to consider: are we witnessing a long-delayed truth, or just the latest evolution of the same game of informational misdirection? The book, and this conversation, ultimately leave listeners with a haunting but essential question — who benefits from what we believe, and why? This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to untangle the web of fact, fiction, and psychological warfare at the heart of the UFO narrative.

In this Need to Know episode, Bryce Zabel and Richard Dolan dive deep—literally—into the realm of USOs (Unidentified Submerged Objects), as Dolan previews his upcoming second volume in a three-part book series on the subject. Focusing on the 1970s and 80s, Dolan reveals that the 1970s were an explosive decade for both UFO and USO sightings, despite limited public reporting mechanisms. He details hundreds of carefully collated incidents, particularly noting a sharp rise in military encounters, electromagnetic interference, and a sudden statistical shift in sightings occurring under the cover of darkness, especially post-1969. Dolan interprets this as a possible tactic of "data denial," suggesting that these craft operators deliberately avoid surveillance from increasingly sophisticated human technologies. The conversation takes a speculative turn as Zabel and Dolan ponder the intentions and origins of these underwater visitors. Dolan leans toward the view that these are non-human intelligences from elsewhere who have established semi-permanent bases on or within Earth's oceans. Their behavior—ranging from skimming the ocean floor near industrial sites to disabling military vessels—appears calculated, as if they are measuring humanity's technological development while simultaneously avoiding exposure. Bryce highlights a pattern of intelligent "observation and calibration," pointing out that these entities may not just be watching us, but testing how we respond to their capabilities. Dolan adds that the vastness and biodiversity of Earth's oceans, paired with their strategic concealment, makes them a logical habitat for long-term surveillance by advanced intelligences. Wrapping up, the duo wrestle with the bigger philosophical question: What do they want? Dolan theorizes that humanity's rapid technological ascent and volatile tendencies may have caught the attention of more advanced species who now feel the need to monitor our impact. Whether these entities are benevolent scientists or military observers remains unknown, but their restraint in open confrontation—despite capabilities that far exceed ours—offers a glimmer of hope. The episode closes with a tease of future explorations into these themes and Dolan's commitment to releasing his book before the holiday season, making it the perfect stocking stuffer for any submarine-skulking UFO enthusiast.

In this episode of Project Book Club, Bryce Zabel and Chrissy Newton dive headfirst into Above Black, a gripping memoir by Dan Sherman that claims to reveal a classified U.S. government program involving alien communication. The conversation explores Sherman's military background, his alleged psychic training, and the controversial Project Preserve Destiny (PPD). The hosts dissect Sherman's assertions with curiosity and caution, pondering how much might be metaphor, misdirection, or an overlooked piece of a larger puzzle. Throughout the episode, Bryce and Chrissy reflect on the thematic layers within the book—namely, the relationship between military intelligence and psychic phenomena. They examine the plausibility of government-run telepathic programs, especially within the broader historical context of MK-Ultra, Stargate, and recent claims by whistleblowers like David Grusch. With a nod to current headlines and Disclosure-era momentum, the hosts weigh whether Sherman's story could be an early breadcrumb trail or part of a clever disinformation campaign. A key tension arises between the need for discernment and the appeal of compelling narratives. The hosts don't shy away from questioning Above Black's reliability, but they also acknowledge its unique place in the UFO literary canon. As Bryce says, sometimes the stories that seem the strangest can end up being strangely prophetic. The episode ends with reflections on the value of exploring even the more fringe accounts—especially when Disclosure itself is becoming increasingly mainstream.

In this episode of Need to Know, Bryce Zabel and Richard Dolan take the pulse of a UFO world that feels ready to blow wide open. The pace of developments is accelerating, and so are the contradictions. As official channels downplay, deny, or deflect, Bryce and Richard reveal a far more complex — and unsettling — reality playing out just beneath the surface.  They dive into six critical topics they feel the audience needs to know right now, touching on everything from historic cases to shifting power dynamics behind the scenes. It's a rapid-fire, insight-packed conversation that pulls no punches — examining the hidden forces at work, the evolving role of the media, and the psychological toll of prolonged secrecy. This episode isn't just an update.  It's a wake-up call. From cultural transformation to political reckoning, Bryce and Richard deliver the kind of fearless, forward-looking analysis that makes Need to Know essential listening for anyone following the UAP story as it breaks into the mainstream.

In this episode of Project Book Club, Bryce Zabel and Chrissy Newton dive into Sekret Machines: Gods, Man & War by Tom DeLonge and Peter Levenda. The discussion unpacks how the book blends history, mythology, and modern-day accounts to explore humanity's long and complex relationship with non-human intelligence. Rather than presenting UFOs as a purely contemporary mystery, DeLonge and Levenda frame the phenomenon as deeply rooted in our collective past, stretching from ancient civilizations to present-day encounters. Bryce and Chrissy consider how the book challenges conventional thinking by drawing parallels between mythology and modern sightings, suggesting that what we've long described as gods, angels, or demons may share common ground with today's UAP reports. They reflect on the balance between hard evidence, cultural interpretation, and the ways secrecy has shaped public understanding of these mysteries. The episode invites listeners to consider how narratives of contact—both ancient and modern—may hold clues about who "they" are and why they continue to appear in human history. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the book's value as both a thought experiment and a serious attempt to reframe the UAP phenomenon. Bryce and Chrissy leave listeners with big questions about how history, spirituality, and disclosure intersect, setting the stage for future conversations that will continue to explore these intersections with open curiosity and rigorous discussion.

In this episode, Need to Know enters a new chapter, bringing listeners an in-depth conversation on the evolving landscape of UFO and UAP discourse. The hosts take a measured look at recent developments in both politics and the media, analyzing how official statements are shaping — and sometimes distorting — public perception of the phenomenon. They discuss the latest claims surfacing in the community, evaluating their credibility while exploring how these narratives fit into the broader disclosure timeline. The discussion moves beyond U.S. borders, examining how international players are positioning themselves in the conversation around non-human intelligence. From geopolitical considerations to shifting alliances, the team unpacks how global events may accelerate or stall progress toward transparency. They also address the impact of public opinion, the role of independent media, and the importance of credible investigative work in separating fact from speculation. Throughout the episode, listeners get both a big-picture perspective and thoughtful insights into the fine details that matter. The hosts bring their combined experience and curiosity to the table, offering a balanced approach that blends skepticism with open-minded inquiry. With fresh energy, sharp analysis, and a clear focus on what's next, this marks the beginning of an exciting new era for the show.

In this episode of Project Book Club, Bryce Zabel and Chrissy Newton explore Encounters, the follow-up to Dr. Diana Walsh Pasulka's American Cosmic. The conversation centers on the evolving relationship between technology, belief, and non-human intelligence, with Bryce and Chrissy examining the book's central thesis: that the phenomenon is not just material, but deeply metaphysical—and that contact may already be happening, just not in ways we fully understand. They discuss the unique cast of characters Pasulka highlights, including scientists, technologists, and experiencers who remain anonymous yet share stunning claims. From mysterious artifacts to altered states of consciousness, the episode dives into how Encounters blends religious studies, high strangeness, and modern science in a way that challenges traditional disclosure narratives. Bryce and Chrissy weigh in on Pasulka's writing style, noting the poetic, sometimes abstract tone that leaves room for interpretation and wonder. They also share their personal takeaways—what resonated, what raised eyebrows, and how this book fits into the larger puzzle of UAP research. Along the way, they reflect on themes of secrecy, belief, and the possibility that humanity is already in dialogue with something beyond itself. As always, the conversation is rich with insight, curiosity, and just the right amount of caffeine. This episode invites listeners not only to read the book but to question how we define evidence, contact, and reality itself.

In this special Need to Know SCIF debut episode, award-winning journalist and series co-creator Bryce Zabel hosts a powerful roundtable with three leading voices in the UAP community: Jason Guillemette (UAP Studies Podcast), Ryan Robbins (Post Disclosure World), and Need to Know producer Tyler Stevens. Together, they unpack the explosive claims made by Ross Coulthart in the most recent episode of Need to Know — particularly the suggestion that the now-infamous Tic Tac UFO witnessed by Navy pilots off the coast of San Diego may not be extraterrestrial at all, but instead a product of secretive human engineering, possibly tied to Lockheed Martin. The conversation revisits the background of the 2004 USS Nimitz encounter, where highly trained U.S. military personnel observed a Tic Tac-shaped object performing maneuvers that defied known physics. The panel discusses the implications of these objects being operated with electrogravitic propulsion systems — a form of advanced, possibly suppressed technology — and how such capabilities could be hidden under the guise of "drone impunity," allowing classified programs to operate in plain sight. The discussion explores the deeper tension between the public's demand for disclosure and the government's history of obfuscation, raising questions about who truly controls this technology and whether the narrative is being manipulated. With each guest bringing a unique perspective — from podcast journalism to deep research and production — this episode offers one of the most direct, critical conversations yet on the true nature of the Tic Tac and the battle over UAP transparency.

In this powerful episode of Need to Know, Ross Coulthart and Bryce Zabel regroup following their in-person appearance at Contact in the Desert, where they spoke to a packed audience and connected with key voices in the UFO/UAP field. The conversation kicks off with a major revelation from Ross about the 2004 Tic Tac incident—one of the most pivotal cases in modern UFO history. Ross lays out new details suggesting that the full extent of the encounter has not been disclosed to the public. Drawing on high-level sources and investigative leads, he presents a serious claim that the event was not just a singular anomaly but part of a broader pattern involving international military activity and the concealment of advanced technologies potentially linked to China. The episode dives deep into the challenges of breaking significant stories in today's media landscape, the resistance faced by whistleblowers, and the careful verification process that underpins responsible journalism. With 60 Minutes preparing to revisit the UAP topic, Bryce and Ross discuss the shifting tone in mainstream media and how the public is becoming more engaged, but also more skeptical. This episode stands out not only for its compelling content but for the credibility of its hosts, who bring a blend of journalistic rigor, historical insight, and first-hand experience to one of the most pressing issues of our time.

In this episode, Bryce Zabel and Chrissy Newton take a deep dive into Imminent, the highly anticipated memoir by Lue Elizondo. From his unusual upbringing and military background to his insider perspective on AATIP and UAP disclosure, the book covers a wide range of bold and fascinating topics. The hosts discuss Elizondo's revelations about crash retrievals, biologics, Roswell, and the secretive Interloper program, while also exploring his focus on consciousness, national security, and the challenges of pushing this conversation forward. They reflect on the book's tone, structure, and impact, acknowledging both its strengths and the questions it raises. Bryce and Chrissy offer thoughtful commentary on the balance between personal storytelling and hard evidence, and why Imminent feels like a pivotal entry in the growing library of serious UAP literature. Whether you're a longtime follower of Elizondo's journey or just getting started, this conversation brings both insight and appreciation to one of the most talked-about books in the field.

In this special live edition of Need to Know, recorded at Contact in the Desert, Ross Coulthart and Bryce Zabel sit down in front of a packed audience to reflect on their personal origin stories with the UFO/UAP mystery. From Ross's early investigative journalism to Bryce's work in Hollywood and exposure to firsthand testimony, both share the compelling "aha" moments that pulled them deeper into the phenomenon. The conversation dives into some of the most significant cases that continue to shape their perspectives, including historical sightings, government secrecy, and the whistleblowers who have risked everything to speak out. It's a revealing and thoughtful dialogue that offers fans a deeper understanding of what drives their work. The episode also opens up to the audience with a live Q&A session, where Ross and Bryce respond to insightful and sometimes provocative questions from attendees. Their answers shed light on the current state of disclosure, the role of journalism and entertainment in shaping public understanding, and how the broader community can contribute to pushing the conversation forward. With honest reflection, humor, and a sense of urgency, this episode captures the spirit of the conference and reminds us why staying curious and informed is more important than ever. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices