gshc2020.com

Key Facts

Vance said if “people want to say we mishandled the Epstein release, guilty. We did mishandle this, especially the communications of it.”

In response to Rogan’s question about what the administration should have done, Vance said they should have released the documents “as quickly as possible,” though he said it still would have taken time to redact details that could identify victims.

Rogan questioned why some of the names that were redacted appeared to not be victims, to which Vance claimed “some of the people who were alleged victims were also alleged co-conspirators,” saying it is sometimes “hard to draw a distinction.”

Vance acknowledged that when Attorney General Pam Bondi gave right-wing influencers binders containing Epstein documents—labeled “The Epstein Files”—many of which were already available, people grew to “distrust the effort,”though he said he thought Bondi was “trying to respond to the political moment.”

Vance defended President Donald Trump despite his links to Epstein, saying he has “never” seen evidence Trump engaged in wrongdoing with minors, and said when Trump refers to the Epstein files as a “hoax,” he refers to the “absurd” idea that he is “somehow a pedophile.”

Vance also alleged Epstein had connections to the “highest levels” of both American and Israeli intelligence, saying Epstein “seemed to be connected to the elements of the Israeli deep state” though tried to specify that they were “left of center” (Epstein was friends with former Israeli prime minister Ehud Barak, who has since apologized for associating with him).

what did vance say about iran?

Rogan, an outspoken critic of the war in Iran, asked Vance to clarify “what is going on” with negotiations, saying it seems like Trump often says peace talks are going well before tensions flare up again. Vance said he believes “fundamentally, we are on the right trajectory,” saying negotiations will be “really messy and there’s going to be a lot of stops and starts.” When oil prices began coming down in June, Vance said Iranian “hardliners” felt they had given away a leverage point and responded by shooting at ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Rogan, who has previously blamed Israel for the U.S. involvement in the Iran war, asked Vance if the United States entered the war at Israel’s behest. “I think the president, completely separate from any influence from Israel, believes very strongly that Iran should not have a nuclear weapon,” Vance said. After Rogan doubled down on his question, Vance said he believes the U.S. would have launched its campaign in Iran without Israel’s influence.

surprising fact

Vance appeared to defend UFC fighter Josh Hokit from criticism over a crude remark he made that former First Lady Michelle Obama “is a man,” which he said to Rogan in a post-fight interview following his bout at the White House last month. Rogan asked Vance which was “more shocking,” either Hokit’s remark about Obama or his armbar fighting techniques. “Definitely the armbar part,” Vance said, as he and Rogan both laughed. Vance said he was “surprised” the Obama remark caused such an uproar. “I was like, 'What, an amped up fighter told a joke after a fight, said something after a fight, and that's actually national news?’” Vance said.

how has rogan stepped up criticism of trump?

Rogan, whose 2024 endorsement of Trump was considered influential, has since broken with the administration on multiple issues, particularly the war in Iran and the Epstein files. In a previous episode of his podcast, Rogan said the war is “exactly the opposite of what we were told leading into this administration,” also warning of a potential World War III. Rogan has also said the Epstein files are a “terrible look for Trump, when he was saying none of this was real, it was all a hoax. This is not a hoax.”

key background

Though neither has made an official declaration yet, Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are considered leading contenders to capture the Republican nomination for the presidency in 2028. Polymarket’s betting odds show Vance has about a 41% chance of securing the nomination, above Rubio’s 28%. Vance has maintained a more public profile in recent weeks as he embarked on a media tour amid the release of a new memoir in June. Vance has said he will decide on a presidential run after the midterm elections.

further reading

Joe Rogan Blames Israel For Iran War — Days After Trump Visit (Forbes) %!s()

However, the version revealed on Wednesday is not identical to the previously approved design. Among the changes, the coin has a gold finish rather than being made of solid gold.

Scott Bessent, the treasury secretary, said in an X post the coin is intended “to honor the enduring legacy of liberty and a lasting symbol of patriotism”, adding: “Featuring President Trump, it celebrates the strength of American values, and the promise of a nation dedicated to preserving freedom for all.”

The decision has sparked criticism because federal law bars living presidents from appearing on US currency. At the same time, the treasury secretary has authority in certain situations to authorize the minting and issuance of coins.

The front of the new coin shows Trump wearing a suit and tie with a stern expression. The word “LIBERTY” appears across the top edge, while the dates 1776-2026 are displayed along the bottom. The phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” is positioned in the center.

On the reverse, the coin features the traditional bald eagle from the Great Seal of the United States. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” is inscribed around the top edge, and the banner above the eagle bears the Latin phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM”, meaning “Out of many, one.”

Trump has repeatedly sought to place his name and image on prominent institutions and projects, including the renaming of the US Institute of Peace, the Kennedy Center performing arts venue, and a new class of battleships, among other tributes.

In March, it was announced Trump’s signature would soon appear on US paper currency. The move marked the first time a sitting US president will have their signature appear on legal tender.

To accommodate this change, the treasurer’s signature will be removed for the first time since 1861.

A decade later, I've accomplished this goal — and to say I've learned a lot would be an understatement. 

I'm frequently asked for tips for new visitors who want to make the most of their time in the parks. Of course, there is no one right way to travel, but several considerations will make a first-time trip much smoother.

Here are my 10 best tips for first-time visitors.

Don’t be afraid to go alone.

When I entered my 30s, I wanted to visit the Grand Canyon but had no one to go with. Instead of waiting for company, I went for it alone. 

That was just eight years ago, and now I've visited hundreds of NPS sites and all 50 states on my own. None of that would have happened if I hadn't taken that first step solo. 

Research and secure reservations and permits ahead of time.

Like it or not, many of the most popular parks have implemented some form of reservation or timed-entry system in the past few years. 

Although it's necessary to combat the overuse and degradation of pristine landscapes, some of the systems can be confusing. That's why it's vital to research the reservation process ahead of time and follow it closely. 

Visitors can — and will — be turned away at entrance stations without a reservation.

Arrive early (or late) for smaller crowds.

Visitation at some of the most iconic national parks has exploded, leading to frustrating crowds and congestion. 

To mitigate this, I always recommend entering a park early in the morning. If you're not an early riser, later in the afternoon, when other visitors leave, is also a good time to explore.

Invest in an America the Beautiful Pass.

At just $80 for US residents, an America the Beautiful Pass grants you (and those in your vehicle) entry into all of the 63 major national parks.

It also covers the entry fees at lands managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and US Army Corps of Engineers. 

With some parks charging entrance fees of $35 alone, just a few visits each year will recoup your investment.

Ask a park ranger for tips — and then ask a local what they'd do on their day off.

Park rangers are an incredible resource for planning your day. 

After I talk with them, I love to go into a gift shop or nearby restaurant and ask a local what they do in the park on their day off. Often, their recommendations lead me to places that are less crowded and more peaceful.

Respect and preserve the land.

It should go unsaid, but when visiting any park, you must always respect the land. Be considerate of others, of wildlife, and of the land itself. 

Becoming familiar with the seven Leave No Trace Principles is a fantastic way to minimize the impact on future generations.

Keep your itinerary fluid.

I've visited Glacier National Park four separate times, but due to wildlife and weather closures, I was only able to complete a hike I've had on my list during my last visit. 

Although national parks can seem like a natural Disneyland, it's important to remember that you can't control nature. Have some hikes and stops in mind, but also have backup plans in place.

Don't be shy with photos — your trip is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

When I started traveling solo to the parks, I was embarrassed to take photos of myself. 

I didn't want to seem narcissistic, be seen setting up my tripod, or draw attention to the fact I was alone by asking others to snap a picture for me. I now regret not taking more photos and would love to be able to reflect on those special memories.

Don't put too much pressure on yourself to check all the boxes — just enjoy the beauty.

Traveling can become stressful quickly, even when surrounded by nature's beauty. In my experience, trying to fit too much into one trip or experience is a recipe for disaster.

Instead, my goal is to just enjoy the beauty. And if I do that, it's all been worthwhile.

This story was originally published on September 24, 2023, and most recently updated on July 15, 2026.

Read next

Emily Hart

You're currently following this author! Want to unfollow? Unsubscribe via the link in your email.

Emily is a content creator, writer, teacher, painter, yogi, and solo explorer based in Colorado. She has visited 59 major US National Parks and all 50 US states solo. You can follow Emily on Instagram @emilyventures.  

• Travel

The great hero Odysseus overcomes many obstacles in his epic story: a cyclops, witches, the sea monsters Scylla and Charybdis, among others. Now he faces his greatest challenge: Fortnite. Epic Games has announced that Odysseus is coming to the battle royale later this week to celebrate the release of Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey.

Epic Games made the announcement on the official Fortnite X account on July 15. It includes a short teaser that shows a digital Matt Damon — Odysseus himself in Nolan's film — walking through vaguely Greek environments that evoke the movie. Some scenes from previous trailers are even recreated, such as Odysseus and his men walking into Polyphemus' cave. There is also, of course, a shot of Odysseus floating aimlessly in the ocean. That guy can't catch a break. More details on the tie-in will be announced later this week, perhaps when the movie is released on Friday.

This is actually the second video game tie-in for Nolan's Odyssey. At the beginning of July, Roblox announced a free mode themed to the movie. Nolan has shown a surprising love of video games over the years, something that may come as a shock from the director known for his devotion to the cinematic experience. The second trailer for Nolan's underrated masterpiece Tenet (I said what I said) premiered in Fortnite on May 21, 2020. Later that year, in June, Epic Games hosted a movie night event that allowed players to watch a selection of Nolan movies live in the game world. Depending on region, players were treated to free screenings of Batman Begins, Inception, or The Prestige.

The Odyssey is Nolan's first film since the Oscar-winning Oppenheimer was released in 2023. Matt Damon takes on the lead role alongside a star-studded cast that includes returning Nolan collaborators Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Himesh Patel, and Elliot Page, among others. They are joined by the likes of Tom Holland (as Odysseus' son Telemachus) and Zendaya, both of whom will be starring in their first Nolan picture.

The Odyssey will be released in theaters on July 17. %!s()

I told you guys about a scary interaction I had in a parking lot, and no one told me I was going it all wrong! Thanks! Nice to have the support of Jalopnik readers. Maybe you let me slide because of parking problems you've had in the past. We've got tales of overcrowded dirt lots, confusing parking garage parking and, as usual, scofflaws who can't be bothered to follow even the clearly marked lines and rules right in front of their faces. One reader was waylaid by Americans' desire to suck down booze during sporting events. Scroll on through to see the worst of the worst parking stories.

Only jerks park too close

Scharfsinn/Shutterstock

In a parking garage, I purposely parked way in the back, next to no other cars. Spots were tight, didn't want any door dings. I don't mind walking. When I got back to my car, person parked right next to me, within 6 inches. No other car on either side of us for 20+ spots. Ugh!

and

I do this at work. I intentionally look for spaces on the end (to cut my chances of a door ding in half) and scoot as far to the side as possible without curbing my wheels. There's someone in a Kia Optima that hasn't been washed since delivery with a rusty roof where the paint peeled away years ago, that seems to seek out my car. No matter where I park (end spots vary each day) I will come out and find that POS next to me with their tires on, or over the line into my space.

From Gnome and Michael Tonelli

East coast parking is a special kind of hell

Diy13/Getty Images

Being in Baltimore, MD, I've developed immunity to parking shenanigans, so it's more entertaining than anything else. And the 2 most entertaining ones are seeing folks circling around the gym parking lot endlessly looking for the closest spot, can't waste those precious calories, can we?

The second one, is backing into a tight Best Buy parking lot in a 2 ton dually pickup that quiet literally cannot fit there.

From igmgag

Two wheels won't save you

Eric Lafforgue/art In All Of Us/Getty Images

Okay, so more of a parking situation than a parking lot.

When I went to Texas Tech a billion years ago, during weekdays, every road inside the inner ring road was closed to drivers unless you were faculty or had a special parking permit. Students were expected to walk to class or take one of the busses that constantly circled the ring road. Problem was, those busses tended to be PACKED. Like, Tokyo subway packed.

I lived on campus and had a motorcycle with a parking permit. Interestingly, every parking lot inside the ring road had designated motorcycle parking that anyone with a permit could use.

You just couldn't GET to it during the week.

Well, that just seemed like a challenge to college me.

One day, I hopped on my KZ440 LTD, and tucked right in behind one of those busses and followed him right through every checkpoint. Made it to class in record time! Now that I was inside the ring road, the traffic cops assumed I was allowed to be there!

So I did this every day for about a week or so. It was glorious! I had beaten the system!

Then one day as I was basking in the diesel smoke and blasting through the checkpoints, I spotted the motorcycle cop stationed at the booth waiting for me.

I did get off with a warning, but it was the shoe leather express for me from then on.

From Stillnotatony

Big game, big drinking, big problem

Smith Collection/gado/Getty Images

I once made the mistake of needing to get something from Home depot between Nov 10 and Feb 15th. The reason these dates are important is because you have entered the holiday to Championship NFL game season and the Home Depot shares a parking lot with a Total Wine that is yards from the PA state line as well as a Wawa. For optimal fun the parking lot has 3 entrances and two exits, with 1 exit next to the Wawa (cross traffic here has no stop sign or light) and other next to the Total Wine (cross traffic here only has a stop sign for traffic coming from the right). People were being nice, let 1 person out of a row, then move forward, and the foot traffic leaving the Total Wine was being managed but the Home Depot is as far from the exits as possible and the 600 foot journey to leave took about 45 mins.

From Cluck

A tight squeeze

Halbergman/Getty Images

Any parking lot ever, people seem to loose their minds.

But one in particular, I worked in a mixed use retail/commercial development that meant for my job I had to park with the public in a parking garage. The garage has a one way entrance, with arrows and signage indicating as much. I was coming back from lunch, coming into the garage and this lady all of a sudden starts turning towards me. I slam on my brakes and turn to avoid her. She then honks at me, in a bewildered look, I just point to the sign above me that says "no exit, entrance only." She honks again and throws up her hands and continues to squeeze past me.

Nothing bad happened, but it is one of those "you clearly could no be more wrong" situations but some people will forever believe they are in the right.

From TheStoned

A squeeze so tight logic can't park there

Dmitry Kirilov/Getty Images

I'd like to take a moment to vent about narrow spots marked as "Compact"... which I believe should not be allowed to exist, mostly because nobody pays attention to those words anyway.

From WeryPert1

Tiny cars leaves reader short on patience

J. Richard Singleton/Shutterstock

Long while back, in Los Angeles, at the Santa Monica Pier. I enter a parking garage which indicates it has a dozen or so spots open. This was on a fairly busy day, so I was glad to see I would find some parking.

Well, since you're here, you probably know what actually happened. This garage was equipped with the fairly new tech (at the time) of the red/green lights above spaces indicating when a space is free. Unfortunately, all the green light spaces that I encountered were actually occupied by a Smart car, Fiat 500, Mini Cooper, or some other vehicle that was uncommonly short and thus evaded the sensor.

I drove around the garage up, down, and up again, for probably an hour. About halfway through, I let my wife and kids out to go to the Santa Monica Pier. Sometimes I would pass a spot, then see someone leaving in my rearview mirror, only to see another car immediately take that spot.

After about an hour, give or take, I finally was able to park.

These days, fortunately, those red/green light sensors seem to be more capable and able to detect shorter vehicles. But that day at Santa Monica was the most frustrating parking lot experience in my life....so far.

From DynamicPresence

Two cars enter, two cars leave a long time later filled with gas

Orjan F. Ellingvag/Getty Images

There's a large shopping center with a Costco, Target, Best Buy, Petco, etc., with very poor infrastructure getting in and out of the area, that draws in thousands of cars. There's multiple support roads on the property to get through to specific areas of the parking lot. Most are four lane (two in each direction) with the left lane usually dedicated as a left turn only lane and the right lane as a through lane. The amount of people that can't figure this out is astounding. You'll pull up beside someone in the left lane, expecting them to turn left (as they are in the left turn lane) and then they just proceed straight with you and try to merge two cars into one lane unexpectantly.

Then there's the thunderdome that is the Costco gas station. It's an older one, so it's not far enough removed from the main store/parking lot, so it turns into utter gridlock as cars line up from every direction trying to get into the gas station. They block the only exit so cars can't leave the gas station and then nobody can go anywhere.

From Michael Tonelli

Done dirty

Tupungato/Shutterstock

General Frustrating issue is with Parking lots with spaces that are striped in the narrowest possible width. Our favorite Pizza place is located in a strip mall type place that consistently stripes the spots at what feels like the width of every average car thus leaving about 3.5 inches to open your door to get out.

Specific: Back in my college days in Newark NJ, the school was mostly a commuter college with not enough spaces. Typically they'd buy a bunch of buildings, flatten them and use the now dirt lot as parking. You'd get aisles blocked at the end (sometimes both ends), cars three deep or cars just parked blocking you in.

From monsterajr1

Rocky parking low

Kevin Moloney/Getty Images

Our Whole Foods parking lot is much worse than our Trader Joe's, but that's probably because TJ's lot is shared with other businesses so there are sane people mixed in with the crazies.

The truly worst experience was at Rocky Mountain National Park. You had to park and catch a tram to go further into the park, and if you weren't one of the first people there you had to slowly roam the (admittedly large) lot until the first people started trickling out, and compete against others doing the same. I didn't have the patience for it, and I had to sit on a bench and let my wife do it (which she did in like five minutes).

From 6thtimearound %!s()