Are You F'ng Kidding Me? With JoJoFromJerz

Jo sits down with Ron Filipkowski, MeidasTouch's editor-in-chief, ex-prosecutor, and the guy whose X feed you check before your first coffee. The two dive straight into the Texas caper: Democratic lawmakers making a midnight dash out of the state—more Springsteen than C-SPAN—to stop the GOP's latest attempt to gerrymander themselves a permanent majority.With the chaos playing out under the relentless August sun, Jo and Ron unpack why power grabs, broken maps, and viral misinformation aren't some Beltway sideshow, they're the main event and the stakes are everybody's future. Ron litigates the headlines, calls out the media hacks, and tears into the cynical math of a system built to silence voters. Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Jo gets raw and real with Senator Ruben Gallego for a deep dive into what happens when Congress ghosts the hard truths and survivors are left carrying the weight in silence. Against the backdrop of another performative escape to summer recess, Jo shares the most personal Substack yet: a letter to survivors who watch their abusers rise to power while the world shrugs. Gallego joins to talk about what courage in service and policy actually looks like, calling out those who dodge the work—whether it's justice for the abused, real border solutions, or protecting veterans from becoming bargaining chips.Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman joins Jojo from Jerz in the July heat (cicadas and all) to break down a week when political theater has nothing on the real-world consequences of cowardice and cover-ups. From Trump's “Ukraine Pivot” to the MAGA meltdown over the Epstein files, Vindman pulls zero punches.They unpack Tulsi Gabbard's attempts to get back in the Trump camp, what's really holding up peace in Ukraine (hint: it's not Kyiv), and why Russia's old playbook keeps working on both sides of the Atlantic. Jo digs deep for the “WTF” of it all, how far right narratives fuel chaos, and what's at stake when America's so-called leaders would rather distract, duck cameras, or chase conspiracies than actually govern.Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While the Epstein files scandal explodes and unfinished business piles up, Speaker Mike Johnson just sprinted for the exits—slamming the gavel on an early summer recess before anyone could say “roll call.” Congress didn't just adjourn; it staged a getaway, ducking the cameras and dodging the receipts.Jojo from Jerz grabs the megaphone and sits down with Congressman Jim Himes to drag everything into the July sunlight: Who's really winning when the People's House turns into the People's Airbnb? Why is “governance” optional when the headlines get too hot? And does Johnson seriously think democracy just pauses itself for a vacation?They torch the vanishing act that left critical crises in limbo, break down the art of hiding from hard votes, and lay out exactly why the rest of us should be demanding more than out-of-office messages and way fewer empty Chambers.Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Congressman Jamie Raskin joins Jo in the middle of a week when American democracy feels like it's on the clearance rack. From Congress giving away its power with the Recessions Act, to lawmakers cosplaying as fiscal hawks while slashing PBS and NPR before even considering a billionaire tax cut, Jo and Raskin unpack what's happening beneath the circus.They go deep on the Epstein files detonating what's left of MAGA credibility, and the staggering hypocrisy of Republicans demanding “transparency” until it lands at their own feet. Raskin connects the dots—from the House's refusal to release the files, to the gutting of programs that fight sex trafficking, to a so-called “rescue” bill that throws millions off health care and SNAP, explodes the deficit, and hands China the keys to America's clean energy future.With his signature clarity, Raskin exposes the schemes behind those “beautiful” bills, the real-world impact on his Maryland district's federal workers, and why the Founders never meant for public service to be a playground for kings and cronies. If you're exhausted by performative investigations, billionaire giveaways, anti-government crusades, or just want to know how to hold the damn line, this episode is your permission slip to get mad, get clear, and get in the fight.Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Congressman Jared Moskowitz joins Jo for a no-holds-barred breakdown of a week so stupid you can't make it up: Congress duck-walks away from the Epstein files, Republicans lock arms to shield the secrets their own base is demanding, and suddenly the MAGA mob is eating itself while Trump twirls behind the curtain. Moskowitz drags the whole charade from Russian nesting dolls of lies, binder theatrics, Bondi's “desk,” and a GOP so tangled they can't remember which version they're selling.But it's not just the spectacle. Jo and Moskowitz dig into the GOP's next-level sabotage on disaster response; how Kristi Noem gutted FEMA, why children in Texas paid the price, and why Republicans are poised to claim “government doesn't work” after personally setting it on fire. You'll hear why outrage matters annd exactly what Democrats must do: stay on offense, call out the lies, and never trust the old rulebook.Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jo sits down with Senator Angus King—Maine's straight-shooting Independent and connoisseur of constitutional reality checks—for a conversation that blows the lid off Washington's latest “power of the purse” giveaway. From Congress rolling over on the Rescissions Act (“one more building block in the edifice of authoritarianism”) to the boneheaded crusade against PBS, NPR, and USAID, Senator King calls out the dangerous shift: lawmakers too scared to do their jobs, too eager to hand the President a blank check.They break down why these budget “rescissions” aren't about fraud or waste—they're about ideology and giving the executive free rein to decide what gets funded, what gets axed, and whose voices and lives are on the chopping block. If you want a sanity check on what the Founders actually intended, and why the final line of defense is still us, this is the alarm bell you can't afford to sleep through.Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jo sits down with Tom Malinowski—former Congressman, Assistant Secretary of State, and expert on foreign policy and democracy. From Trump's super awkward NATO deals and unpredictable tariff threats to the devastating impact of the big bad “Billionaire Boner Bill,” they unpack the real consequences for working families, small businesses, and America's global standing. Later, Tom shares insider insights on the complex dance between Trump and Putin, the challenges facing Ukraine's defense, and the alarming cuts to the State Department that threaten U.S. soft power.Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Journalist, author, and “Just Ask the Question” podcast host Brian Karem joins Jo for a raw, unfiltered conversation about journalism in the age of chaos. Brian shares what it's like to be marginalized in the White House briefing room, the evolution of propaganda from the podium, and why the current administration's contempt for truth is unlike anything he's seen in four decades of reporting. Together, they dig into the real human cost of policy—families grieving lost children, communities left without leadership, and the looming threat of due process being stripped away for everyone, not just immigrants.Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Pakman - host of The David Pakman Show- joins Jo for a raw, honest, and unexpectedly hopeful conversation about life in America after "The Billionaire Boner Bill." David and Jo revisit their first meeting at The White House- before "the shit show came in for season two" - and reflect on just how quickly things have unraveled. Together, they break down what the new bill really means for working class families, the dangers of finger-pointing on the Left, and the urgent need for more voices - big and small - telling the human storiesbehind the headlines. The conversation includes:Why the courts still matter (even now)The urgency of taking back the House in 2026How to activate non-voters and micro-creatorsWhy the Left must stop fighting itselfHow everyday people can—and must—speak up

Jo welcomes comedian, SiriusXM host, and author John Fugelsang for a brutally honest—and frequently hilarious—conversation about America's relentless cruelty, the billionaire boner bill, and why the GOP's Bible-thumping is pure performance. With his new book coming out August 19th (preorder it now), Separation of Church and Hate: A Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back the Bible from Fundamentalists, Fascists, and Flock-Fleecing Frauds, Fugelsang digs into the white supremacy at the core of U.S. immigration policy, the hypocrisy of politicians who wrap themselves in Christianity while gutting healthcare and nutrition for millions, and why “the cruelty is the point.”Jo and John don't hold back: they call out the media's cowardice, the cult of personality around Trump, and the Democrats' chronic inability to fight fire with fire. Fugelsang shares how his own upbringing—by ex-clergy parents—shaped his view of faith, and why nobody who actually reads the Bible could square it with today's right-wing politics. There are dick jokes, there's righteous anger, and there's a guide for anyone who's tired of watching religion used as a weapon against the most vulnerable.Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This rapid-response episode of Sane(ish) couldn't be more urgent. Jo is joined by Senator Tina Smith just as the Senate moves to vote on the “billionaire boner bill” which would gut health care, slash benefits for working families, and hand out tax breaks to billionaires. Senator Smith lays out what's really at stake, why this fight matters for moms, kids, and everyday Americans, and exactly how you can help stop the bill before it's too late.If you care about protecting Medicaid, SNAP, and basic decency, now's the moment to act. Listen, share, and get loud—because it's go time.Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this urgent episode of Sane(ish), Jo is joined by sits Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut following a powerful Capitol Hill hearing on the Republican “Big Beautiful Betrayal” bill—or as Jo calls it, the “Billionaire Boner Bill.” Together, they break down the real-world consequences of this catastrophic legislation, which threatens to kick millions off Medicaid and slash SNAP benefits, all to fund massive tax cuts for billionaires and corporations.Senator Murphy and Jojo share heartbreaking stories from the hearing, including a mother of an autistic child whose family's survival depends on Medicaid, and a former public school educator who knows firsthand what it means to rely on food assistance. They discuss how the bill would devastate working families, children with disabilities, and the most vulnerable Americans—while padding the pockets of the ultra-wealthy.Subscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jojo from Jerz brings together legal heavyweight George Conway and historian Heather Cox Richardson for a candid, unscripted conversation about the chaos of June 2025. With Trump launching strikes on Iran, Congress sidelined, and the world on edge, Jo, George, and Heather cut through the noise to ask: How did we get here—and what happens next?George & Heather swap stories from their Harvard days and dig into the psychology of Trump's power: Why do smart people keep caving to him? Why does the GOP keep bending the knee? And what does history tell us about strongmen, performative politics, and the collapse—or survival—of democracy?From the performative presidency to the dangers of unchecked executive power, the trio breaks down the legal, historical, and human stakes of this moment. They talk about the Supreme Court, the role of institutions, and why—when the rule of law is on the ropes—the only thing left is for people to get out in the streets and fight for what mattersSubscribe and Follow Jo:https://linktr.ee/jojofromjerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the world on edge over the escalating Iran-Israel conflict, Jo sits down with national security expert and former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Joel Rubin for a deeply human conversation about what's really happening behind the headlines. As Trump's stance on U.S. involvement in the region shifts by the hour, swinging from “no new wars” to openly hinting at strikes alongside Israel, Joel explains the risks, the ripple effects, and the consequences for American families.Together, they unpack why Trump's impulsive foreign policy is leaving allies, adversaries, and even his own party guessing; how the collapse of the Iran nuclear deal set the stage for today's crisis; and what a potential U.S. strike could mean for global security, oil prices, and the safety of American service members. They also tackle the chaos in Washington, the influence of pro-Putin voices, and the anxiety so many Americans are feeling as talk of war and nuclear threats dominates the news. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachel and Jo discuss the disconnect between political theater and the lived realities of veterans, including the impact of recent VA policy changes on healthcare access. They explore the professionalism of service members, the importance of lawful orders—even when they're “awful”—and why storytelling is essential for advocacy and driving change.They also tackle the pitfalls of measuring political success by social media impressions, the need for authenticity in political communication, and why grassroots movements must adapt and allocate resources strategically to make real progress. From family milestones to the urgency of voter registration, Rachel and Jo remind listeners that political change is a collective effort—and that genuine connection, not spectacle, is what moves the needle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Majid Padellan, better known as Brooklyn Dad Defiant joins for a spirited conversation about the state of America in 2025. They take aim at Stephen Miller's legacy of cruelty, the ongoing ICE raids and National Guard deployments, and the propaganda fueling chaos in Los Angeles. Majid shares how he uses humor and activism to push back against despair, and why calling out villains by name is more important than ever.Subscribe, rate, and share Sane(ish)—and follow Jojo from Jerz and Brooklyn Dad Defiant on Substack, YouTube, and X for more fearless commentary and community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We welcome independent journalist and The Jim Acosta Show host, Jim Acosta, to break down the crisis in Los Angeles—one fueled directly by Donald Trump's political gamesmanship. As ICE raids spark mass protests and Trump deploys the National Guard over the objections of Governor Newsom, LA has become the latest stage for Trump's manufactured chaos.Jojo and Jim dig into how Trump is deliberately escalating tensions in LA to distract from his own scandals—including his public fallout with Elon Musk—and to stoke fear for political gain. They discuss the real-life consequences for immigrants, activists, and everyday Angelenos caught in the crossfire, the dangerous abuse of federal power, and what this moment means for democracy and dissent in America.Jim Acosta shares his on-the-ground insights, the importance of independent journalism in holding power to account, and why the media must call out this orchestrated crisis for what it is. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we catch up with Allison Gill, Navy veteran, former VA executive, and host of The Daily Beans, to talk about how the Trump administration and the GOP's latest “Billionaire Bailout Bill” are impacting America's military, veterans, and working families.Allison breaks down the real-world consequences of proposed Republican cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, SNAP, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, including plans to fire tens of thousands of VA workers and privatize veterans' healthcare. She shares her personal experience as a veteran and VA insider, exposes the hypocrisy of “support the troops” rhetoric, and explains why so many in the military and veteran community still fall for the GOP's propaganda, even as their benefits are threatened. Jojo and Allison also tackle the influence of Fox News and disinformation on military bases, the media's failure to hold power accountable, and the dangerous rise of propaganda in American politics. Plus: a candid look at why knowledge is the antidote to anxiety, how community can break the gaslighting cycle, and what keeps both of them Sane(ish) in a world gone mad.Subscribe, rate, and share Sane(ish)—and follow Jojo from Jerz on YouTube for video episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Joni Ernst f'ing kidding me? We're breaking down the viral Joni Ernst “we're all going to die” Medicaid response and what it reveals about the GOP's approach to healthcare. Then, special guest Dr. Annie Andrews—a pediatrician, public health advocate, and Democratic Senate candidate taking on Lindsey Graham in South Carolina—joins for a conversation about the real consequences of Republican Medicaid cuts, the fallout from RFK Jr.'s controversial tenure as HHS Secretary, and the party's escalating attacks on children's health, SNAP, and basic decency. Dr. Andrews shares her front-line perspective as a doctor and mom, why she's running for Senate, and how the culture wars are distracting from policies that hurt families. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jo is joined by former Marine, prosecutor, and MeidasTouch editor-in-chief Ron Filipkowski for a no-holds-barred look at a political news cycle that feels like a fever dream. Jo kicks things off with a blistering takedown of Trump's West Point commencement speech—calling out the partisanship, culture war rants, and “trophy wife” nonsense that turned a solemn military tradition into a MAGA spectacle. Then, Ron joins to make sense of the headlines: Trump dangling pardons like party favors, cozying up to Putin, the right's relentless culture war stunts, and the mainstream media's obsession with palace intrigue over real accountability. Together, Jo and Ron cut through the noise, expose the hypocrisy, and remind listeners why independent voices matter more than ever. Join the conversation with Jojo on socials @JoJoFromJerz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jo welcomes Congressman Jason Crow—a former Army Ranger, veteran, and fierce advocate for Colorado's working families—for a candid conversation about what's really at stake in America right now. Together, they break down the latest “billionaire bill” in Congress, how political decisions in Washington ripple through everyday lives (from Medicaid and SNAP cuts to rising prices at Walmart), and why real leadership means showing up, listening, and fighting for the truth even when it's hard. Crow shares his firsthand perspective on January 6th, the importance of empathy in politics, and how ordinary people can reclaim power and hope in turbulent times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's part 2 of our launch week! This time, Jo is joined by Michael Cohen—former Trump attorney and bestselling author—for a deep dive into the chaos of American politics in 2025. They break down the explosive news of the $5 million government settlement with Ashli Babbitt's family, the right's relentless attempts to rewrite January 6th, and the jaw-dropping grift machine that's fueling Trump's comeback—from meme coins and crypto schemes to the Qatar luxury jet and the so-called “Golden Dome” defense project.Subscribe, rate, and share Sane(ish) to help build a community that's searching for truth, justice, and a little more sanity in a world gone wild. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the very first episode of Sane(ish) with Jojo from Jerz! Jo is joined by her inaugural guest, Harry Dunn, former Capitol Police officer & January 6th truth-teller, for a raw, honest conversation about resilience, leadership, and the fight for our democracy.Jo and Harry unpack the media's obsession with Biden's legacy, the cruelty and hypocrisy swirling around the news cycle, and the importance of holding onto our humanity when the world feels upside down. And because sanity requires some joy, they even find time to talk Knicks basketball, Yankees fandom, and the power of human connection.If you're searching for a little more sanity in this wild world, you're in the right place. Don't forget to rate, follow, and share Sane(ish)-and join Jojo on social (@JoJoFromJerz) to keep the conversation going. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sane(ish) with Jo Carducci launches May 13th, with new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special guest Stephanie Miller joins JoJo to discuss the implications of recent policies on healthcare, immigration, and the lives of everyday citizens. They tackle the alarming realities facing American families as political decisions lead to devastating consequences and reflect on the cruelty embedded in current governance and the urgent need for accountability from elected officials. Tune in for a passionate conversation about the fight for justice!

JoJo tackles the pressing issues facing America today with a candid discussion on courage, cowardice, and political dynamics. With special guest Stephanie Miller, they delve into the impact of disinformation, the state of the economy, and the ongoing struggles with tribalism in politics. With insightful commentary on leadership and accountability, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the current climate in the United States.

In this explosive episode, JoJo welcomes the brilliant Stephanie Miller for her first appearance! They delve into the chaotic political landscape, discussing the blatant illegality and constitutional crises unfolding in real-time. With unfiltered commentary, we explore the implications of recent court orders, the absurdity of political maneuvering, and the erosion of due process. Buckle up for a candid conversation that pulls no punches!

Join Jo as she welcomes the fabulous Stephanie Miller for her debut on the podcast. Together, they tackle the chaotic state of current affairs, discussing constitutional crises, the blatant disregard for the law, and the impact of political decisions on everyday lives. With humor and candor, they explore the urgent need for effective leadership and the importance of staying engaged in these turbulent times. Don't miss this insightful conversation filled with passion and wit!

JoJo From Jerz and Andy Ostroy break down how the American people are being gaslight, chat about the poor state of the economy, and what we as Americans can do about it.

JoJo From Jerz and Andy Ostroy discuss the bromance going on between President Trump and Elon Musk, how it won't last, and more.

JoJo From Jerz and Andy Ostroy talk about President Trump, the current administration, and why we should be optimistic.

In this fiery episode, we tackle the absurdities of current political discourse with our guest, Andy Ostroy. Join us as we dissect the chaotic state of affairs and the distractions that keep us from addressing the real issues at hand. This episode is a no-holds-barred conversation that challenges listeners to think critically and fight for a better future.

JoJo and former RNC Chairman Michael Steele discuss how our right wing nationalist racist oriented Republican Party is taking the country into a very dark space.

JoJo and former RNC Chairman Michael Steele talk about how President Trump is disintegrating our democracy and constitution piece by piece.

JoJo and former RNC Chairman Michael Steele break down how President Trump is changing our country's allies and alienating long-term ones.

JoJo and former RNC Chairman Michael Steele dive deep into the shift of the Republican Party, the changing our country's allies, and how President Trump and his right wing nationalist party is destroying our nation.

JoJo and Allison Gill discuss how federal workers are being treated, what's at stake with the veterans community, and more.

JoJo and Allison Gill break down the major setbacks Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) face as they purge the federal workforce.

JoJo and Allison Gill discuss the recent mass U.S. Department of Justice resignations and whether charges against New York mayor Eric Adams will be dismissed.

In this episode, we welcome the incredible Allison Gill to discuss the latest happenings within the Department of Justice, including the shocking resignations in the Southern District of New York. We dive into the implications of these legal challenges and the ongoing investigations, as well as the impact on our democracy and the veterans community. Join us for a candid conversation filled with insights, humor, and a call to action for everyone to get involved.

JoJo and Attorney Joe Gallina discuss legacy media versus being an independent content creator and how you can change the narrative.

JoJo discusses with Attorney Joe Gallina about how President Trump and the MAGA movement wants to destroy the country.

JoJo discusses with Attorney Joe Gallina how Elon Musk is violating the constitution and why President Trump is being so subservient.

In this episode, we welcome back Joe Gallina, a brilliant mind behind the Call to Activism social media account. Together, we delve into the current political landscape, discussing the implications of Elon Musk's actions and the challenges facing our democracy. Joe shares his insights as an attorney on the importance of judicial checks on executive power and the dangers of unchecked authority. We explore the MAGA movement's impact on governance and the necessity for a united front against the chaos. Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights the urgency of activism and the power of community in these tumultuous times. 

JoJo and Ron Filipkowski talk about what the Trump Administration really wants to do and the rights they want to take away.

JoJo and Ron Filipkowski discuss who's really running the country right now and Trump's alleged game to distract Democrats.

JoJo goes in depth with Ron Filipkowski about a Trump world post-inauguration, Project 2025, and Elon Musk's new role.

JoJo talks with Ron Filipkowski about what is being unleashed by the Trump Administration

JoJo and Brian Shapiro wonder how Trump is making America safer and question the people he's hiring.

JoJo recaps with Brian Shapiro about the embarrassing press conference with Karoline Leavitt and Trump's insensitive comment on a tragic plane crash.