• S3.E7 - Considering Haiti as a Crime State with guest Dr. Felbab-Brown
    Mar 28 2025
    Haiti is collapsing. Gangs now control most of Port-au-Prince, and the international response is failing. Can anything stop the takeover? In this gripping episode of The Stimpack Podcast, Jeff Frazier sits down with Dr. Vanda Felbab-Brown, a top expert in insurgency and organized crime from the Brookings Institution, to break down the current crisis in Haiti. Together, they explore how armed gangs like Viva Ensemble have outmaneuvered the Haitian government and the internationally funded MSSM force—and why so many conventional strategies, like high-value targeting, are likely to fail. They also discuss how Haiti’s elite once puppeteered the gangs, and how that dynamic has now reversed, leading to bold attacks in upscale neighborhoods and fears of a full-scale collapse. This is a must-listen if you want to understand the power struggle, the humanitarian cost, and what could happen next if the world continues to look away. 🎙 About the Guest Dr. Vanda Felbab-Brown is a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and one of the world’s leading experts on conflict zones, organized crime, and counterinsurgency. With a PhD in political science from MIT and an undergraduate degree from Harvard, she has spent decades in the field, interviewing armed actors, insurgents, and civilians across places like Iraq, Afghanistan, Mexico—and now Haiti. Her work influences top decision-makers around the globe. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: Vanda Felbab-Brown joins the show 01:58 – Vanda’s background: from communist Czechoslovakia to Harvard & MIT 04:36 – Why she’s drawn to war zones and underdog causes 08:00 – How she gathers intel: interviews, fieldwork, and analysis 11:34 – A breakdown of Haiti’s armed actors: gangs, militias, police 14:20 – Why the MSSM is failing 16:06 – Can high-value targeting work? (Spoiler: probably not) 21:00 – The rise of Viva Ensemble: unity among deadly rivals 26:00 – Attacks in the hills: gangs encroach on elite neighborhoods 31:00 – Daily life in Port-au-Prince: famine, collapse, no escape 32:39 – What solutions remain—if any 37:52 – The reemergence of gang-political bargains 42:31 – Why Haiti matters to the world 📝 Show Notes This conversation offers one of the most thorough, real-time assessments of Haiti's gang crisis available today. Dr. Vanda Felbab-Brown explains why the MSSM mission, even at full strength, is unlikely to contain the growing power of gang coalitions like Viva Ensemble. She outlines how gang leaders have evolved—becoming more politically strategic, militarily capable, and economically self-sufficient. We also explore: The failures of decapitation strategies (targeting gang leaders) How corruption, sanctions, and foreign disengagement accelerated the crisis Why drone strikes may be more symbolic than effective The surprising parallels with other conflict zones like Afghanistan and Mexico What could happen if no outside force intervenes—and what happens if the wrong one does Jeff and Vanda dive deep into the systemic collapse of governance, and the daily realities of hunger, displacement, and fear for millions of Haitians. If you're trying to understand Haiti not as a headline, but as a living, breathing crisis—this episode is essential. Stay Connected 🎧 Subscribe to The Stimpack Podcast → [https://stimpack.org/season-3] 🌐 Learn more about STIMPACK → [https://www.stimpack.org] 📱 Follow Us on Instagram → [ / stimpack_haiti ] ▶️ Watch Jeff's Kidnapping story → [ • Prologue - 43 Days to Freedom ] #HaitiCrisis #GangsInHaiti #StimpackPodcast #VandaFelbabBrown #PortauPrince #MSSM #Haiti2025 #HaitianGangs #BrookingsInstitution #OrganizedCrime #HaitiViolence #GangTakeover #HumanitarianCrisis #PoliticalCollapse #JeffFrazier
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    45 mins
  • S3.E6 - Diego Da Rin (Int. Crisis Group) joins us to talk about Haiti’s Security Crisis
    Mar 13 2025

    In this episode of the Stimpak podcast, Jeff Frazier interviews Diego Da Rin from the Crisis Group, focusing on the complex situation in Haiti. They discuss Diego's background, the role of the Crisis Group, the challenges faced by the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, and the dire state of affairs in Haiti due to gang violence and political instability. The conversation also touches on the potential for negotiations with gangs and the need for elections and governance in Haiti.

    Takeaways Crisis Group operates with country-specific analysts to provide in-depth analysis. Diego Da Rin's journey into crisis analysis began with a focus on social movements in Colombia. The MSS faces significant challenges due to underfunding and lack of resources. Haiti's political landscape is heavily influenced by gang violence and corruption. International attention is often diverted to other crises, leaving Haiti under-supported. The need for a robust security mission in Haiti is critical to restoring order. Haitians are largely opposed to negotiating with gangs due to past violence. The situation in Haiti can worsen if immediate action is not taken. Elections in Haiti are complicated by security issues and gang control. Long-term solutions must address the root causes of violence and corruption.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Diego Da Rin and His Background

    01:14 New Chapter 08:16 Transition to Crisis Group and Focus on Haiti

    10:43 Crisis Group's Approach to Conflict Analysis

    14:36 International Response to Haiti's Security Crisis

    20:40 Understanding the Gang Dynamics in Haiti

    23:34 The Complexity of Haiti's Political Landscape

    30:42 The Role of the International Community

    39:30 Prioritizing Security Over Elections in Haiti

    General Hashtags: #JeffFrazier #StimpackPodcast #PodcastInterview #Haiti #HaitiCrisis #HaitiNews #HaitiViolence #HaitiConflict #HaitiPolitics #InternationalRelations #GlobalConflict #CrisisGroup #DiegoDaRin #Geopolitics #WorldPolitics #CurrentEvents #HumanitarianCrisis #SecurityIssues #Peacekeeping #ConflictResolution #InternationalAid #ForeignPolicy

    Haiti-Specific Hashtags: #HaitiUnrest #HaitiGangs #HaitianPolitics #HaitianCrisis #PortAuPrince #HaitianPolice #MSS #MINUSTAH #UNPeacekeeping #HaitiSecurity #HaitiEconomy #HaitiCorruption #HaitiAid #HaitianElections #HaitiGovernment #HaitiWarzone #HaitiRescue #HaitianPeople Crisis & Security Hashtags: #GangViolence #PoliticalCrisis #FailedState #UrbanWarfare #PeaceOperations #InternationalSecurity #GlobalConflicts #SecurityThreats #LawAndOrder #UNMission #HumanRights #StateCollapse #CrisisResponse #DDR #PeaceNegotiations #HumanTrafficking #CivilUnrest

    Podcast & Media Hashtags: #YouTubePodcast #Podcasting #TrueStories #RealTalk #WorldIssues #DeepDive #PodcastEpisode #Journalism #InvestigativeReporting #NewsAnalysis #GeopoliticalAnalysis #ThinkTank #ExpertInterview #PodcastDiscussion #YouTubeInterview

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    43 mins
  • S3.E5 - Saving Haiti: Who’s Responsible?
    Mar 7 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, Jeff Frazier discusses the potential impact of the Trump-Rubio administration on Haiti, focusing on security and governance. He explores the ethical implications of humanitarian aid, individual responsibilities in giving, and the U.S. interests in Haiti's stability. The conversation delves into the current security situation in Haiti, the influence of gangs, and the broader geopolitical context involving China and Russia.

    Takeaways

    The Trump-Rubio effect on Haiti will focus on security and governance.
    Ethics and morality play a crucial role in humanitarian aid.
    Individuals must assess their responsibility in giving.
    The U.S. has strategic interests in Haitian security.
    Stopping mass migration from Haiti is a priority for the U.S.
    Economic opportunities in Haiti can benefit both nations.
    The influence of gangs in Haiti is a growing concern.
    There is no neutral ground in global politics.
    The U.S. must act to prevent foreign adversaries from gaining influence in Haiti.
    The current situation in Haiti requires urgent attention and action.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Trump-Rubio Effect on Haiti
    00:14 Ethics and Morality in Humanitarian Aid
    02:33 The Cost-Benefit Analysis of Giving
    05:01 The Role of Government in Humanitarian Efforts
    07:10 Understanding Security and Governance in Haiti
    10:09 The Big Four: U.S. Interests in Haiti
    12:45 The Current Situation in Haiti
    14:53 Expectations for the Trump-Rubio Administration
    18:24 Conclusion and Future Outlook
    20:57 Season Three mpeg.mp4

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    21 mins
  • S3.E4 - The Trump, Rubio, Musk effect on Haiti
    Feb 19 2025

    Keywords

    Haiti, humanitarian aid, self-reliance, economic development, Trump-Rubio effect, USAID, power giving, governance, foreign aid, community empowerment

    Summary

    In this conversation, Jeff Frazier discusses the future of Haiti, focusing on the need for a new approach to humanitarian aid that emphasizes self-reliance and economic development. He critiques the current methods of aid distribution, arguing that they often perpetuate dependency rather than foster independence. Frazier introduces the concept of 'power giving,' which aims to empower individuals and communities by providing them with the tools and opportunities necessary for sustainable growth. He also explores the potential impact of the Trump-Rubio effect on Haiti, suggesting that a shift in mindset towards personal responsibility in aid could lead to significant improvements in the country's situation.

    Takeaways

    The future of Haiti depends on self-reliance and opportunity. Current humanitarian aid often perpetuates dependency. Power giving focuses on empowering communities. Economic development requires understanding local needs. The Trump-Rubio effect could change the aid landscape. Aid should be tailored to avoid creating laziness. Listening to communities is crucial for effective aid. Self-reliance can be achieved through local initiatives. The role of government in aid should be minimal. Real change requires hard work and commitment.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Trump and Rubio Effect on Haiti

    06:50 The Dangers of Lazy Giving

    15:10 Power Giving: A New Approach

    21:55 The Future of Haiti: Self-Reliance and Opportunity

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    29 mins
  • S3.E3 - All the Puzzle Pieces!
    Feb 14 2025

    In this episode, Jeff Frazier discusses the complex issues facing Haiti, emphasizing the importance of understanding the existing puzzle pieces of governance, rule of law, and economic development. He highlights the critical role of humanitarian aid and the need for self-reliance initiatives to create sustainable growth. The conversation also touches on the interplay between these elements and the challenges posed by corruption and governance failures. Jeff concludes by outlining future discussions on the Trump effect and ethical obligations towards Haiti.

    Takeaways

    The world is moving too fast for traditional approaches.
    Good governance is essential but not sufficient for progress.
    Haiti currently has zero elected officials, indicating a governance crisis.
    Tax collection is crucial for providing basic societal services.
    Corruption is a pervasive issue in all developing nations.
    Rule of law is necessary for entrepreneurship and investment.
    Economic development must be prioritized over security concerns.
    Humanitarian aid must be paired with self-reliance initiatives.
    The disparity between Haiti's economy and population growth creates scarcity.
    Understanding the missing piece is vital for sustainable development.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Puzzle of Haiti
    00:40 Understanding the Work Streams
    02:49 The Importance of Good Governance
    06:31 Rule of Law and Its Challenges
    09:45 Economic Development and Its Dependencies
    12:27 The Missing Piece: Self-Reliance Initiatives
    17:44 Looking Ahead: The Future of Haiti
    22:42 Season Three mpeg.mp4

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    23 mins
  • S3. Bonus - Who is this Jeff Frazier guy?
    Oct 17 2024

    Summary

    In this conversation, Jeff Frazier shares his personal journey from a challenging childhood to becoming an entrepreneur and technology innovator. He discusses his military service, the impact of self-education, and his transition into the tech industry, particularly in health technology. Frazier emphasizes the importance of understanding Haiti's complex issues and calls for collective action to address its challenges, aiming to engage listeners in meaningful activism.

    Takeaways

    Jeff's childhood was marked by challenges, including ADHD and family trauma.
    He demonstrated tenacity in overcoming educational obstacles.
    Military service provided him with discipline and structure.
    Self-education through books ignited his passion for learning.
    His tech career began with a focus on healthcare and innovation.
    ResearchKit opened new opportunities for health research.
    Understanding Haiti requires a comprehensive approach.
    Frazier aims to identify key factors that can drive change in Haiti.
    He seeks to build a community of engaged activists.
    The goal is to address the root causes of Haiti's poverty.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Ethical Obligation to Rescue
    01:43 Sacrificing for Haiti
    11:47 From Technology to Clinical Research
    18:11 ResearchKit and Data Collection
    25:20 The Plight of Children and Women in Haiti
    27:38 Understanding Haiti's Poverty
    28:24 New Chapter
    28:34 New Chapter 2

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    29 mins
  • S3.E2 - The First Puzzle Piece
    Oct 1 2024

    www.stimpack.org

    Summary

    This conversation delves into the complex history of Haiti, exploring the factors that have contributed to its current state of poverty. Jeff Frazier discusses the historical context of Haiti's struggles, the impact of isolation and crippling debt, the rise and fall of its golden age, and the consequences of dictatorship on investment and economic stability. The conversation culminates in identifying the missing piece necessary for Haiti's prosperity, emphasizing the importance of good governance and international relations.

    Takeaways

    Haiti's environmental degradation is a significant issue.
    The historical context of slavery and colonialism shaped Haiti's economy.
    Haiti was once a wealthy colony, producing immense wealth for France.
    Isolation and debt have severely impacted Haiti's development.
    The Duvalier dictatorship led to a significant decline in investment.
    Predictability and freedom are essential for economic growth.
    Haiti's golden age in the 1950s was short-lived due to political instability.
    The international community has focused on governance in Haiti.
    Understanding Haiti's history is crucial for addressing its current challenges.
    The missing piece for Haiti's prosperity is yet to be fully identified.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome
    00:52 The Puzzle of Haiti
    01:35 Haiti's Poverty and Food Insecurity
    03:22 Gangs and Control in Port-au-Prince
    04:17 Haiti's Potential and Missing Piece
    06:51 The Journey Begins: Captivity and Enslavement
    08:41 The Revolt: A Fight for Freedom
    11:00 Haiti's Independence: A New Dawn
    13:04 The Burden of Debt: France's Demands
    17:06 The Golden Age: A Brief Resurgence
    22:43 The Downward Spiral: Economic Collapse
    24:57 New Chapter
    25:07 New Chapter 2
    25:12 New Chapter 3

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    26 mins
  • Season 3 Kickoff - Here we go!
    Sep 2 2024

    www.StimPack.org

    https://www.instagram.com/stimpack_haiti/

    https://www.youtube.com/@stimpack_haiti

    Summary

    Season three of the podcast is finally here after a long break. The host expresses gratitude for the patience of the listeners and their eagerness to contribute to making progress in Haiti. The podcast aims to educate and equip listeners to address the issues in Haiti, particularly child exploitation and critical poverty. The host shares stories of abandoned children and the challenges of development work in Haiti. He discusses the need for scalable solutions and the importance of influencing policy and foreign aid. The political situation in Haiti, including the power vacuum and the role of gangs, is also highlighted. The host reflects on the lack of a special envoy from the US and considers his own qualifications for the role. Jeff Frazier recounts his journey to secure the special envoy appointment for Haiti. He describes how he started calling around and gathered a small team to open doors for him. Jeff believed that if there was a dearth of qualified and willing candidates for the position, he could make a push in DC to get the appointment. He attended a gala where he had the opportunity to meet Brian Nichols, the Assistant Secretary of State for the Western Hemisphere. Jeff approached Brian and asked for his support in obtaining the special envoy appointment, but they were not aligned in their views.

    Keywords

    season three, podcast, gratitude, patience, progress, Haiti, child exploitation, critical poverty, abandoned children, development work, scalable solutions, policy, foreign aid, political situation, power vacuum, gangs, special envoy, US, special envoy appointment, DC, support, gala, Brian Nichols, congressional support, Haiti caucus, politicians, leadership, constituents, State Department, Haiti policy, gangs, poverty

    Takeaways

    Season three of the podcast focuses on addressing the issues of child exploitation and critical poverty in Haiti.
    Development work in Haiti requires scalable solutions and a focus on influencing policy and foreign aid.
    The political situation in Haiti, including the power vacuum and the role of gangs, has contributed to the challenges faced by the country.
    The lack of a special envoy from the US has hindered progress in Haiti, and the host reflects on his own qualifications for the role. Jeff Frazier embarked on a campaign to secure the special envoy appointment for Haiti, gathering support and opening doors in DC.
    He attended a gala where he had the opportunity to meet Brian Nichols, the Assistant Secretary of State for the Western Hemisphere, but they were not aligned in their views.
    Jeff realized that in order to obtain the appointment, he would need congressional support and began identifying legislators who cared about Haiti.
    He observed the two-faced nature of politicians and the importance of constituents in influencing their actions.
    Jeff's pursuit of the special envoy appointment led him to become involved in Haiti policy issues and contribute in less formal ways.
    Through his research, Jeff and his team uncovered a grand unified theory of Haiti policy that they will explore in Season 3 of the podcast.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Season Three Kickoff
    02:43 Child Exploitation and Critical Poverty in Haiti
    07:02 Challenges Faced by NGOs and the Impact of Foreign Aid
    13:39 The Assassination and Power Vacuum in Haiti
    18:19 The Role of the International Community in Haiti
    21:43 The Search for a Qualified and Willing Special Envoy
    27:55 Making a Push in D.C. for the Special Envoy Appointment
    32:09 A Conversation with Brian Nichols at the Gala
    34:41 The Importance of Congressional Support
    40:17 Observations on Two-Faced Politicians
    44:23 The Power of Constituent Influence
    47:33 Discovering a Grand Unified Theory of Haiti Policy
    51:16 New Chapter 2

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    52 mins