Free Daily Podcast Summary
Need To Know: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Bryce Zabel
Need to Know is a smart, serious, and accessible podcast about the reality of UFOs/UAP and what the phenomenon may mean for all of us. The show is hosted by award-winning writer/producer and former CNN correspondent Bryce Zabel, who continues the signature UFO/UAP conversation format he helped pioneer: informed, evidence-driven, open-minded, and focused on what the public has a right to know. Today, Need to Know features Bryce in conversation with historian Richard Dolan, one of the field's most respected researchers and authors. Together, they examine breaking news, government disclosures, historic cases, credible witnesses, official documents, and the shifting landscape of Disclosure. The show also includes expanded formats such as Project Book Club with Chrissy Newton, Need to Know Xtra with Tyler Stevens, and other special episodes that explore the mystery from fresh angles. From 2021 to 2025, Bryce co-hosted Need to Know with investigative journalist Ross Coulthart. Their collaboration helped define the show's distinctive mix of journalism, analysis, historical context, and plainspoken curiosity. In 2025, Ross moved on to host Reality Check for NewsNation, while Bryce continued the Need to Know mission and also agreed to produce Sound, Light & Frequency for iHeartPodcasts. With exclusive interviews, breaking-news analysis, hidden history, and thoughtful commentary grounded in evidence, Need to Know guides listeners through the noise and toward understanding. The questions remain urgent: What is happening in our skies? What do governments know? Who — or what — may be behind the phenomenon? And what happens next? Stellar Productions is the production company of Bryce and Jackie Zabel. Its work spans television, film, books, and podcasts, with credits including the NBC UFO series Dark Skies, the Syfy original film Official Denial, the Disney animated feature Atlantis: The Lost Empire, the WGA Award-winning limited series Pandemic, the UFO disclosure book A.D. After Disclosure, and the podcasts Need to Know and Sound, Light & Frequency.
Latest Episodes
The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- 5 days ago1h 10m
UFO Secrets or UFO Spin? | Ben Schreckinger
In this episode of Need to Know Interviews, Bryce Zabel sits down with journalist Ben Schreckinger to explore the growing battle over UFO secrecy, government transparency, and the conflicting narratives surrounding the phenomenon. From Lockheed Martin's alleged connection to secret UFO technology to the ongoing debate over what the Pentagon really knows, Schreckinger examines a story where the claims are extraordinary, but the answers remain elusive. A former Politico reporter, Schreckinger discusses his move into UFO journalism, his latest reporting involving former AARO director Sean Kirkpatrick, and the challenges of investigating a subject surrounded by competing accounts, government denials, and allegations of hidden programs. Bryce and Ben examine the credibility of the people making these claims, the role of intelligence officials, and the importance of independent journalism in separating evidence from speculation. As the UFO story moves further into mainstream political and media circles, the conversation raises a central question: Are we getting closer to uncovering long-hidden secrets, or are competing interests shaping the narrative? From Washington insiders to the possibility of advanced technology hidden behind classified programs, this interview explores what's known, what's disputed, and where the investigation goes next. Use our TAPO code - NEEDTOKNOW10 Visit the TAPO website - • https://us.store.tapo.com/products/tapo-c645d-kit
- 2 weeks ago1h 23m
Jay Stratton Steps Out of the Shadows
In this episode of Need to Know, Bryce Zabel and Richard Dolan take a deep dive into Jay Stratton's new book, Out of the Shadows: Revealing the Truth About Non-Human Intelligent Life. As one of the most senior U.S. intelligence officials involved in investigating UFOs and UAP, Stratton offers a rare perspective on the government's involvement with the phenomenon. Bryce and Richard examine his revelations, personal experiences, and what his decision to come forward could mean for the future of disclosure. The conversation explores Stratton's influence on modern UAP investigations, his connections to key figures within the intelligence community, and the role he played in bringing the subject into greater public and congressional awareness. They consider the significance of his claims involving non-human intelligence, advanced technology, and alleged secret government programs, while examining what evidence has been made public and what questions remain unanswered.
- Oct 4, 20261h 7m
Can the Phenomenon Be Both Hardware & Consciousness?
In this episode of Need to Know, Bryce Zabel and Richard Dolan break down the sixth government UAP file release, including the newly released videos, historical documents, and 37 AAWSAP research papers exploring subjects like warp drives, traversable wormholes, advanced propulsion, and other frontier technologies. They also revisit Edward Ruppelt, Project Blue Book, and the remarkable continuity between what officials were saying about unexplained objects in 1952 and what government agencies are still saying today. The conversation then turns to one of the biggest questions surrounding the phenomenon: Can UFOs be both physical technology and something connected to consciousness? Bryce shares the story behind the mysterious diagram given to him and Brent Friedman by a man claiming to be with the Office of Naval Intelligence at the 1996 Dark Skies premiere party. The drawing, later connected to concepts involving chakras, sound, light, frequency, and consciousness, raises deeper questions about why intelligence officials may have been interested in introducing these ideas into popular culture. Bryce and Richard also explore remote viewing, the government's historic research into consciousness, Hal Puthoff and Russell Targ's work at SRI, and whether the UFO phenomenon itself may be forcing humanity to reconsider the relationship between mind, matter, and reality. The episode closes with new discussion surrounding former Secretary of Energy John Herrington, Brent Friedman's extraordinary 1981 story, and why these decades-old connections may still matter to the modern disclosure conversation.
- Sep 6, 20261h 9m
What Should We Tell The Children?
How should we talk to children about UFOs, unexplained phenomena, and other sensitive subjects? In this episode of Need To Know, Bryce Zabel and special guest Ben Hansen explore how parents, teachers, and trusted adults can approach these conversations with honesty, care, and age-appropriate language—without creating unnecessary fear or dismissing a child's natural curiosity. They discuss the importance of separating confirmed facts from speculation, encouraging thoughtful questions, and helping young people feel safe when confronting uncertainty. Whether the subject involves UFOs, government secrecy, frightening news, or the possibility of life beyond Earth, the goal is not to provide every answer—it is to build trust, promote critical thinking, and remind children that it is okay not to know.
- Aug 2, 20261h 17m
Whose Narrative Is It Anyway?
In this episode of Need to Know, Bryce Zabel and Richard Dolan examine the recent Ross Coulthart–UAP Gerb interview and the accusations directed at Lue Elizondo, asking who is shaping the narrative—and what evidence supports the competing claims. Bryce also recounts his appearance on Dr. Phil and considers whether Donald Trump may be positioning the television personality as a trusted public voice for Disclosure. Finally, Richard expands on his concept of a "breakaway civilization": a hidden, highly compartmentalized world with access to advanced knowledge and technology, operating beyond the awareness and perhaps the control of conventional government.
- Jul 5, 20261h 16m
Is the Tic Tac Really Lockheed Martin Technology?
In this episode of Need to Know, Bryce Zabel and Richard Dolan revisit one of the most debated claims in modern ufology: Ross Coulthart's statement that the famous Nimitz "Tic Tac" UFO was Lockheed Martin technology. They carefully examine what was actually said, why the claim generated so much discussion, and whether the available evidence supports such a conclusion. Along the way, they explore the long history of Lockheed's connection to classified aerospace programs, the challenges of relying on anonymous intelligence sources, and the importance of separating speculation from verifiable evidence. The conversation expands into the broader question of whether some UFO encounters could be explained by advanced human technology or whether the evidence continues to point toward a genuine non-human intelligence. Bryce and Richard discuss the implications of black-budget programs, reverse engineering, the role of private aerospace contractors, and why landmark cases like the 2004 Nimitz encounter remain some of the strongest evidence in the UAP debate. They also reflect on the current state of disclosure, recent developments in Washington, and why the search for answers is far from over. The episode also features a lighthearted opening on the "GOAT" of ufology, where Bryce and Richard debate who deserves a place on the Mount Rushmore of UFO research, highlighting figures such as Jacques Vallée, J. Allen Hynek, Stanton Friedman, and George Knapp. Blending humor with thoughtful analysis, the discussion ultimately returns to the biggest question facing the field today: if disclosure is a process rather than a single event, how do we responsibly separate compelling evidence from extraordinary claims?
- Jun 10, 20269 min
Does Spielberg Land Disclosure Day?
In this episode, Bryce Zabel offers his perspective on Disclosure Day not simply as a movie, but as a cultural milestone in the UFO conversation. He examines how Steven Spielberg approaches the subject, what the film gets right, where it takes creative liberties, and whether it succeeds as a meaningful disclosure story for a mainstream audience. More importantly, Bryce explores the larger question: if humanity were faced with undeniable evidence of a non-human presence, would our reaction resemble Spielberg's vision, or would the reality be far more complicated?
- Jun 6, 20261h 1m
Desert Storm - Need to Know Xtra
In this special Need to Know episode, producer Tyler Stevens returns from Contact in the Desert 2026 with a firsthand look at the biggest UFO conference in the world. Tyler and Bryce Zabel explore the atmosphere of the event, the excitement surrounding the recent UFO file releases, the reaction to Disclosure Day, and the conversations happening among researchers, experiencers, content creators, and attendees from across the globe. The discussion also highlights major panels featuring Jacques Vallée, Eric Davis, Tim Gallaudet, Jeremy Corbell, George Knapp, and many of the leading voices currently shaping the UFO conversation. The episode also dives into some of the stranger and more fascinating aspects of the conference. Tyler shares his experience attending a Chris Bledsoe Skywatch, discusses the growing connection between UFOs and consciousness research, and breaks down a remarkable demonstration involving a blind participant attempting to perceive information without sight. From remote viewing and psi phenomena to disclosure, science, and the future of UFO research, this episode offers a unique boots-on-the-ground perspective from one of the most talked-about events in the field.
Get Need To Know summaries in your inbox
Free AI-powered daily recaps. Key takeaways, quotes, and mentions — in a 5-minute read.
Get Free Summaries →Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
You Might Also Like
Listeners also like.
Sound, Light & Frequency
Hollywood writer/producers investigate if the U.S. government used films and TV to disclose UFO secrets, based on their own encounter with a mysterious figure.
Dear People of Earth Science and Physics- The UFO Podcast - Disclosure - Aliens - UAP
Explores UFO and UAP phenomena through scientific analysis, physics, and expert discussions on credible sightings and cosmic mysteries.
That UFO Podcast
Covers global UFO, UAP, and related phenomena through news updates and interviews with experts and witnesses.
The Micah Hanks Program
Examines scientific mysteries and fringe topics like UFOs, ancient history, AI, and cryptozoology through critical discussion and guest interviews.
Stuff They Don't Want You To Know
Explores unexplained phenomena, conspiracy theories, and alleged government cover-ups throughout history.
WEAPONIZED with Jeremy Corbell & George Knapp
Investigates UFOs, paranormal events, and government cover-ups through interviews with whistleblowers, scientists, and military officials.
Unobtainium Podcast
A Hollywood writer-producer and an astrophysicist analyze the science behind sci-fi films, separating fact from cinematic fiction.
UAP Unidentified Alien Podcast
Examines UFO sightings, government disclosures, and unexplained aerial phenomena with a focus on potential extraterrestrial origins.
hidden experience audio
In-depth interviews exploring the personal impact of UFO contact and the broader UFO mystery.
Somewhere in the Skies
A weekly exploration of UFO phenomena and unexplained aerial encounters hosted by an author and investigator.
Multiverse 5D Podcast | Spirituality, Metaphysics, Multiverse and Ancient Secrets
Examines metaphysics, ancient secrets, extraterrestrials, parallel dimensions, and spiritual ascension through discussions on Ufology and shamanism.
Blurry Creatures
Explores biblical perspectives on UFOs, cryptids, the Nephilim, and supernatural phenomena through theology and witness testimony.
About Need To Know
Need to Know is a smart, serious, and accessible podcast about the reality of UFOs/UAP and what the phenomenon may mean for all of us. The show is hosted by award-winning writer/producer and former CNN correspondent Bryce Zabel, who continues the signature UFO/UAP conversation format he helped pioneer: informed, evidence-driven, open-minded, and focused on what the public has a right to know. Today, Need to Know features Bryce in conversation with historian Richard Dolan, one of the field's most respected researchers and authors. Together, they examine breaking news, government disclosures, historic cases, credible witnesses, official documents, and the shifting landscape of Disclosure. The show also includes expanded formats such as Project Book Club with Chrissy Newton, Need to Know Xtra with Tyler Stevens, and other special episodes that explore the mystery from fresh angles. From 2021 to 2025, Bryce co-hosted Need to Know with investigative journalist Ross Coulthart. Their collaboration helped define the show's distinctive mix of journalism, analysis, historical context, and plainspoken curiosity. In 2025, Ross moved on to host Reality Check for NewsNation, while Bryce continued the Need to Know mission and also agreed to produce Sound, Light & Frequency for iHeartPodcasts. With exclusive interviews, breaking-news analysis, hidden history, and thoughtful commentary grounded in evidence, Need to Know guides listeners through the noise and toward understanding. The questions remain urgent: What is happening in our skies? What do governments know? Who — or what — may be behind the phenomenon? And what happens next? Stellar Productions is the production company of Bryce and Jackie Zabel. Its work spans television, film, books, and podcasts, with credits including the NBC UFO series Dark Skies, the Syfy original film Official Denial, the Disney animated feature Atlantis: The Lost Empire, the WGA Award-winning limited series Pandemic, the UFO disclosure book A.D. After Disclosure, and the podcasts Need to Know and Sound, Light & Frequency.
Customized Recaps
AI-powered recaps with compact key takeaways, quotes, and insights.
Straight to Your Inbox
Get key takeaways from Need To Know in a 5-minute read.
Save Hours Every Week
Stay current on your favorite podcasts without falling behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Podzilla's Need To Know daily summary?
It's a free AI-powered email that summarizes new episodes of Need To Know as soon as they're published. You get the key takeaways, notable quotes, and links & mentions — all in a quick read.
How does the Need To Know podcast summary work?
When a new episode drops, our AI transcribes and analyzes it, then generates a personalized summary tailored to your interests and profession. It's delivered to your inbox every morning.
Is this an official Need To Know product?
No. Podzilla is an independent service that summarizes publicly available podcast content. We're not affiliated with or endorsed by Bryce Zabel.
Can I get summaries of other podcasts too?
Absolutely! The free plan covers up to 3 podcasts, any in the catalog. Basic raises that to 15, Pro to 40 and Max to 100. Browse our full catalog at /podcasts.
How often does Need To Know release new episodes?
Need To Know publishes biweekly. Our AI generates a summary within hours of each new episode.
What topics does Need To Know cover?
Need To Know covers topics including Science, News, Culture, Society & Culture. Our AI identifies the specific themes in each episode and highlights what matters most to you.
Start getting Need To Know summaries tomorrow morning.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.