Commentary on today’s news and events—with plenty of humor mixed in. Sometimes accompanied by guests from the worlds of music and politics.
From a humble parish in Chicago to the throne of St. Peter, the world just met Pope Leo XIV—America's first pontiff—while stateside we're stuck watching Puff Daddy defend a rap sheet that makes “Making the Band” look like Sunday school. We'll also dig into Oregon's $1.5 trillion “white-gold” lithium rush, Trump's 747-size Qatari gift-with-golf-course, and a raccoon literally caught smoking meth during a traffic stop (because of course). Plus: FAA radar blackouts, crypto kingpins in orange jumpsuits, and vending-machine for Narcan. Buckle up for pontiffs, puffery, and pure podcast chaos.
This week in America:Warped Tour and a full-on Trump military parade are happening at the same time in D.C. Because nothing says freedom like trying to mosh between tanks and fighter jets.A historian of fascism says Trump's authoritarian sprint is faster than Putin's.France is offering American scientists cash, visas, and croissants to escape U.S. anti-science policies.And Trump just restarted student loan collections after a five-year break.
In this episode we sprint through a week's worth of whiplash headlines: a federal judge slams the brakes on the Trump administration's “spin‑the‑globe” deportations, ruling that shipping migrants to random third countries without notice shreds due‑process rights. From Rome, shock waves follow the sudden death of Pope Francis—beloved reformer and self‑styled “pope of the poor”—setting the stage for a high‑stakes conclave he largely pre‑stacked. Back home, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is busted for treating a Signal family chat like a Situation Room, leaking Yemen strike details to relatives. In New York, Luigi Mangione is federally indicted—and death‑penalty eligible—for the murder of UnitedHealthcare's CEO, while the FDA freezes a key food‑safety testing program after massive budget cuts, Harvard sues the White House over a $2.2 billion funding squeeze tied to mask and DEI bans, and Parkland activist‑turned‑DNC vice chair David Hogg launches a $20 million crusade to primary complacent Democrats. Buckle up: accountability is in, adults are missing, and the collateral damage spans from airport security lines to the Vatican crypt.
We delve into the escalating tensions between the executive and judicial branches of the U.S. government. Vice President JD Vance's assertion that President Trump can disregard judicial rulings has ignited a heated debate over the balance of power and the sanctity of the rule of law. We explore the potential consequences of such actions, including the erosion of checks and balances, the undermining of judicial authority, and the risks of authoritarianism. The discussion also highlights the implications for conservatives, emphasizing threats to states' rights and the weakening of trust in institutions. We outline necessary actions to uphold constitutional governance, such as enforcing judicial authority, legislative reaffirmation of court rulings, and public vigilance against political lawlessness. The episode underscores the critical importance of maintaining the separation of powers to preserve democracy.
Our live inauguration night coverage featuring correspondents from The Cool Nerd Weed Show and Mood Killers.
From RFK Jr.'s controversial vaccine advisor vetting top health officials to the jaw-dropping $34M verdict against Las Vegas police for fabricating evidence. Plus, Amazon workers threaten strikes, mysterious drone sightings stir fears, and Biden's historic clemency reshapes justice.
From immigration policies that propose deporting U.S. citizens and ending birthright citizenship to election reform ideas that aim to rewrite the rules, we explore the bold claims and controversial strategies of DJT's political playbook. We also delve into breaking news stories, including the assassination of UnitedHealthcare's CEO, the fall of the Assad regime, TikTok's legal battles, and a tragic rabies case in California. Plus, in our rapid-fire round, we tackle strange news, celebrity gossip, and the latest in space exploration, all with a healthy dose of humor.
Recorded from our live election night coverage.
Hundreds of Donald Trump supporters stranded in the California desert after a rally in Coachella due to transportation chaos. Rally-goers faced intense heat, leading to some collapsing and others left walking two hours back to their cars. Meanwhile, Trump calls for military force to be used against "enemies from within," sparking outrage and comparisons to authoritarianism. On the weather front, Florida is still reeling from Hurricane Milton, with homeowners struggling to get insurance claims approved, while conspiracy theories about weather manipulation cause meteorologists to receive death threats. In other headlines, TD Bank gets hit with a record $3 billion fine for drug cartel money laundering, and a new cervical cancer treatment reduces death risk by 40%, marking a major breakthrough.
Hurricane Helene leaves a deadly path across six states—who got hit the hardest? Trump's legal woes deepen as new evidence surfaces, but will we get to see it? The FBI pays up big time in a $22M sexual discrimination scandal. Plus, what's the deal with Tennessee's bizarre license plates, and why are they making headlines? Oh, and did we mention the giant naked Trump statue in Vegas?
In this episode, we delve into the anxieties of living in politically divided regions during a tumultuous election season. From a voter's fears about potential unrest if Trump loses, to the latest political gaffes—including Trump's mixed messages on early voting and his rambling economic plans—we cover it all. We also discuss Sam Elliott's bold pro-Harris ad, the controversial execution in Missouri, MrBeast's legal woes over his upcoming show, and the unexpected lawsuit between Cards Against Humanity and SpaceX.
We break down the chaos from the latest presidential debate, where Kamala Harris commanded the stage, keeping Donald Trump on the ropes while tackling wild claims about immigrants eating pets and Trump dodging tough questions. We also dive into the aftermath of Trump's second assassination attempt, an intense political climate, the historic repeal of Arizona's Civil War-era abortion ban, and more.
The turmoil in Venezuela following Nicolás Maduro's disputed election victory, leading to protests, violent crackdowns, and international condemnation. We also discuss the expanded lawsuit against Live Nation, the discovery of $1.6 million in cocaine on Florida beaches, Trump sharing fake "Swifties for Trump" images, a tragic child abuse case in Arkansas, and fresh allegations against Trump involving a call with Netanyahu, Disney's legal battle over a wrongful death lawsuit, and more.
Ukraine just pulled off a move that even Putin didn't see coming—taking over a chunk of Russia's Kursk region. Then the Olympic-sized mess involving American gymnast Jordan Chiles, who just got her bronze medal yanked, we'll tell you why. Plus SpaceX has been busy polluting Texas waters because, apparently, environmental regulations are just suggestions and more.
In this episode, we dive into the dramatic events of July 13, 2024, when an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump occurred at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. We also explore the political and social fallout, including President Biden's condemnation of political violence, the FBI's ongoing investigation, and how militia groups are exploiting the incident for recruitment. Additionally, Trump announces JD Vance as his VP running mate amidst these turbulent times.
We dive into Project 2025, the controversial blueprint drafted by the Heritage Foundation, with significant contributions from former Trump administration officials. While Trump denies any involvement, the evidence tells a different story. Plus, the recent legal battles over abortion rights and gender identity protections, and the political ramifications of Trump's delayed sentencing in the hush money case, and more.
Former President Donald Trump has been convicted on 34 felony counts by a New York jury. Yes, you heard it right – 34! With sentencing set for July 11th, just days before the Republican National Convention. Meanwhile, polls show that most Americans think the verdict was fair, but Republicans are sticking with their guy. In other news, the Proud Boys are making a comeback, mRNA cancer vaccines are giving us hope, Ticketmaster got hacked (again), Claudia Sheinbaum is Mexico's first female and Jewish president, and Panama is evacuating an island due to rising sea levels. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
The latest in Trump's hush payment and classified documents trials. Stormy Daniels' vivid testimony about her alleged encounter with Trump left jurors nauseous. Plus, Trump's classified documents trial has been indefinitely postponed, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem's escalating disputes with tribal nations, college protests over the Israel-Hamas war disrupting graduations, Steve Bannon's failed appeal on contempt charges, a Chinese zoo's controversial panda-dog stunt, and the bizarre story of a woman living inside a grocery store sign for a year. Plus the band Airpark checks in to play their new song. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
The historic criminal trial of former President Trump, accused of orchestrating a conspiracy to influence the 2016 election via hush money payments. The significant unionization at Volkswagen's Chattanooga plant, a landmark decision for workers' rights. The guilty plea of a former Marine in the January 6 Capitol riot.The NBA's ban of Jontay Porter for gambling violations. The groundbreaking high-speed rail project linking Las Vegas to Los Angeles, set to revolutionize travel by 2028. Plus, guest Ana Friedberg from the project Friedberg. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
This week… the GOP's dance with Russian propaganda, migrants turning the tables, and the unending saga of Donald Trump's legal labyrinth. We're not stopping there; Ted Cruz's reelection jitters, a Wyoming wolf's bar-hopping misadventure, and a Hollywood-worthy $30 million heist. And, we uncover the bizarre tale of "zombie cicadas." --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Dive into the digital deep end with us as we explore the U.S. government's latest tech target: TikTok. With lawmakers on a mission to possibly ban the app, American teens might have to find new ways to avoid eye contact at dinner. Plus, a peek into Princess Kate's vanishing act and AI's awkward phase of being, well, kinda racist. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Donald Trump's bank account is feeling lighter than his hairdo after a New York judge slapped him with a $355 million penalty for inflating his wealth. And former FBI informant Alexander Smirnov is accused of fabricating a bribery scheme involving President Joe Biden and Hunter Biden. Plus, the FCC is putting its foot down on AI-generated robocalls, and George Santos is suing Jimmy Kimmel over some Cameo video pranks. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
The courts have ruled against Donald Trump, declaring he cannot claim presidential immunity to avoid prosecution for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. This pivotal decision not only puts Trump's legal strategy in jeopardy but also primes the stage for a potential Supreme Court battle that could redefine the scope of executive power. Plus, a critical Atlantic Ocean current system is showing early signs of collapse, Ozzy takes on Kayne West, and guest Jason Lamb, author of the book NoMeansNo: From Obscurity to Oblivion, which details the journey of the best punk and most influential bands you've probably never heard of. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Multifaceted designer, illustrator, and writer, Jefferey Everett. Under the alias Rockets are Red, Jeffrey has crafted designs for bands like Social Distortion, Flogging Molly, Foo Fighters, Jason Mraz, Flight of the Conchords, Gaslight Anthem, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, The Bouncing Souls, New Found Glory, A Day to Remember, among others. Plus… King Charles III is donning his bravest face as he embarks on a cancer treatment journey, proving that even monarchs aren't immune to life's curveballs. Switching scenes to the U.S. Supreme Court, where the legal drama over Donald Trump's ballot eligibility turns into an episode of "Law & Order: Presidential Unit." Thanks to a long-forgotten constitutional clause, we're on the edge of our seats waiting to see if insurrection is a no-go for presidential hopefuls. Plus, a tale of teenage tomfoolery turns serious with a 17-year-old's swatting spree goes awry, a sleep apnea machine is more nightmare than dream-catcher, and more. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
First up, we examine the landmark legal battle involving former President Donald Trump and writer E. Jean Carroll, where Trump is ordered to pay a staggering $83.3 million in defamation damages. We then pivot to the shocking developments in Vince McMahon's career, following serious allegations that have led to his resignation from TKO, and more. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
A bombshell about AI impacting 40% of jobs and deepening inequality. Plus, more AI news in New Hampshire with a Biden deepfake robocall asking voters not to show up at the polls. And for a dose of hope, we explore a groundbreaking cancer vaccine making strides in clinical trials. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Guest Doc Coyle from rock group Bad Wolves, and all the latest headlines, including: Adam Schiff's bold plan to transform American democracy and the controversial decision by some states to skip summer food assistance for children. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
We start at the Supreme Court, where justices are deciding DJT's 2024 ballot fate. Then, we're shifting gears to the latest Boeing 737 Max debacle. With a side of the plane missing mid-flight, it's a new take on 'extra legroom.' Then, we're stirring into Starbucks' new initiative to get customers to BYOC (Bring Your Own Cup). It's part environmental crusade, part logistical puzzle. How will this play out in the drive-thru line? And, we'll delve into the Biden administration's proposed rule change for gig workers. From Uber to DoorDash, the employment landscape might be in for a seismic shift. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Congress is buzzing about UFOs – sorry, we mean "UAPs" (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena). Chuck Schumer and Senator Mike Rounds are leading the charge to declassify top-secret government UFO files, but it seems like not everyone is on board. A wild twist in the saga of conspiracy kingpin Alex Jones. He's offering $55 million to the Sandy Hook families he wronged with his outrageous claims. Plus, Rudy Giuliani takes another legal hit for his election antics in Georgia, and guests Oxymorrons join the conversation to promote their debut album, Melanin Punk. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Let's kick off with Donald Trump's legal tango in Colorado, where he dances away with a court win. It's like watching a reality show, but the stakes are actual democracy, and the drama is disappointingly real. Moving on to the Capitol, where Congress miraculously avoided a government shutdown. It's like watching a group of toddlers successfully bake a cake – messy, surprising, and you're just relieved the house didn't burn down. And then, there's Joe Biden, hitting 81. In the White House, that's less 'elder statesman' and more 'antique with experience'. It's like your grandfather running a marathon – impressive, but you're slightly concerned for his wellbeing. Speaking of wellbeing, Trump's health update is in! He's reportedly in excellent health, which, considering his lifestyle, is as baffling as finding out that Bigfoot is not only real but also your pilates instructor. On to the courts, where the 8th Circuit's decision on the Voting Rights Act has us wondering if they're trying to make legal history or just confuse historians in the future. Finally, we've got Biden pardoning turkeys, because nothing says 'American politics' quite like sparing two birds from becoming dinner. It's a tradition that's as whimsical as it is utterly, delightfully bizarre. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
We're slicing through the legalese to bring you the skinny on Trump's New York testimony — a spectacle where the only thing shorter than the answers are the judge's patience. Switching gears, we unpack the saga of Sam Bankman-Fried, the crypto wunderkind turned cautionary tale, whose courtroom drama could fill a ledger thicker than his now-defunct FTX's balance sheets. And a deep dive into the digital dismantling of a website that's caused quite the stir for House Speaker Mike Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
This week: Rep. Mike Johnson's ascension to House Speaker — a man so enigmatic, even Russian TV can't resist being charmed. Meanwhile, Trump attorney Sidney Powell's courtroom revelations are serving more twists than a pretzel stand. And, in the realm of tech, President Biden strides forward, laying the groundwork for AI's future — ensuring robots serve us, not the other way around. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
A Federal Judge drops the mic with a sassy gag order on a certain politician. Rep. Jim Jordan is trying to round up his Republican pals for support, but with Rep. Steve Scalise's unexpected exit stage left, will he hit the right note or fall flat? George Santos is facing the music. With a whopping 23 charges against him, including the classic hits "Wire Fraud" and "Identity Theft," it seems he's charting on the "Top Legal Troubles" list. But wait, there's a remix - he allegedly fibbed to the Federal Election Commission. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Guest: BandLab Artist of the Month, When The Sun Sets Plus: the recent Israel-Gaza conflict took a grim turn as Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, initiated an attack of unparalleled magnitude last Saturday. This offensive is labeled the most devastating Israel has seen in the last half-century. Tragically, over 900 lives in Israel have been lost. Concurrently, the Palestinian territories, including Gaza and the West Bank, report nearly 687 casualties. In a twist of international espionage and politics, former President Donald Trump's previous sharing of classified intelligence with Russian officials has been spotlighted, especially in light of the recent Hamas assault on Israel. The question lingers: Did Trump's intel leak play a role? Lastly, we switch gears to Trump's current legal battles. Drawing parallels to the notorious Fyre Festival's strategies, Team Trump appears to be banking on chaos rather than clarity. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Former President Donald Trump made a courtroom cameo. With hair as defying as his defense, the trial kicked off with potential consequences that could send some of his prized real estate properties into the "you're fired" zone. The government shutdown is officially...not happening. With a temporary deal in place, they've managed to keep the lights on... at least until November 17th. Consider it the legislative equivalent of "we'll just order pizza for now." Lastly, the House Republicans seem to be taking notes from 'Game of Thrones' – but with less dragons and more drama. As some plot to oust Matt Gaetz, Gaetz himself is making moves against Kevin McCarthy. Who will remain standing when the music stops? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
First up, we tackle the curious case of Hunter Biden, who seems to have taken multitasking to a whole new level. He's been indicted for the "possession of a gun while using narcotics." But are the charges bogus? Next, the "United Auto Workers Strike," where an army of autoworkers is causing quite the commotion. 13,000 workers across GM, and Ford factories are demanding better treatment. Matt Gaetz is flirting with the idea of running for Florida Governor. Which is odd because he usually only flights with things that are underage. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Trump takes his signature "You're Fired" to new heights with a surrender dance on racketeering charges. And speaking of hot seats, Giuliani – yes, "Tough on Crime" Giuliani – is waltzing into a 13-count indictment. And FUN!!! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
"The Blind Side" Revisited: Remember Michael Oher, the NFL giant who became an inspiration on and off the field Theres an update to the story. Also, Justice and Grifts: Hold onto your gavels as we uncover the controversy surrounding Clarence Thomas. Is he truly "corrupt as hell"? Then, a Mystery Document Unveiled: Ever had a website glitch reveal more than it should? We're digging into the Georgia court website's accidental slip-up publishing potential Trump charges. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
First, Trump's latest legal 'oopsie' concerning the 2020 election as he faces indictment number 11,000. Then, we're off to Florida, where the Sunshine State is throwing some serious shade on AP Psychology. Lastly, good ol' Mitch McConnell, got serenaded with a chorus of 'Retire!' during a speech. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Republican-led states: rolling back the alcohol service age... for teens. Plus, a Houston school district is turning their libraries into disciplinary centers. Shh, no talking or the paddle comes out. Also, The US Department of Justice is stepping into the spotlight with a potential lawsuit against Live Nation/Ticketmaster. Is it for their outrageous service fees, or are they just mad that they weren't invited to the Taylor Swift concert? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
In Tinseltown, it's lights, camera, and strike! Also, $39 billion in student loans were wiped out, but it's not what it seems. Plus, some of the white stuff found in The White House. All of that is part of a News Roundup, and then we'll jump into The Lighter Side. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
The Supreme Court concluded the October Term 2022 by issuing its final disappointing decisions. Also, a World Famous INTU “News Roundup.” --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Bud Light sales have been going down faster than your Wi-Fi during a Netflix binge. The Titanic Five met their oceanic end in an 'instant implosion'. Swinging our attention to Russia, where the Wagner Revolt is stirring up more buzz than a vodka-infused beehive. And brace yourselves, the billionaire brawl we've all been waiting for. Musk and Zuckerberg are now 'dead serious' about fighting in the UFC. I mean, if we can't get a Facebook 'Dislike' button, at least we can potentially see Zuck getting a black eye. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Welp. Someone is facing 37 federal charges. Whoops. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
A news roundup of the week's biggest stories and guest M.A.G.S. M.A.G.S. stands as the solo alias of Elliott Douglas, an artist originally from Buffalo but now based in Los Angeles. With a remarkable ability to effortlessly traverse various genres, his music effortlessly blends funky garage vibes with refreshing alt-pop melodies that captivate listeners from the get-go. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Las Vegas resident Barak Zilberberg announced his official run for 2024 US Presidency. A self-made entrepreneur, real estate investor and philanthropist, he's a lifelong Republican out to change the party and move it forward. Also, the latest in the ongoing George Santos chaos. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
We delve into recent American mass shootings and examine possible solutions to the epidemic. Like the controversial Texas bill proposing to train third graders in the use of battlefield tourniquets. Plus, we examine studies that reveal a correlation between decreased violent crime rates and various gun control measures. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
A pioneering researcher and the so-called “Godfather of AI,” Geoffrey Hinton, quit his role at Google so he could more freely speak about the dangers of AI. Then, the latest in Disney VS. DeSantis. Also, punk rock legend Todd Morse, the bassist for The Offspring, debuts new music. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
From Gavels to Gucci….. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas' decades-long luxury gift-gate, sponsored by your friendly GOP mega donor! Then, buckle up for a buddy-cop adventure gone wrong, with two men who dared to open a secret NYPD branch in the Big Apple, all for the Chinese government! And finally, we'll take a trip to Montana, where TikTok dances have been outlawed, and residents are mourning the loss of their 15 seconds of fame. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message
Will the Stormy seas subside, or is this just the first of many legal tsunamis on the horizon? We're navigating the Trump legal monsoon, from Stormy Daniels to Georgia's investigation into Trump's 2020 election interference and his 11,780-vote treasure hunt, to Special Counsel Jack Smith's probe into Trump's classified material handling and potential FBI obstruction. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/its-news-to-us/message