Podcast appearances and mentions of george w bush

43rd president of the United States

  • 5,660PODCASTS
  • 10,691EPISODES
  • 49mAVG DURATION
  • 2DAILY NEW EPISODES
  • Aug 1, 2025LATEST
george w bush

POPULARITY

20172018201920202021202220232024

Categories



Best podcasts about george w bush

Show all podcasts related to george w bush

Latest podcast episodes about george w bush

The New Yorker Radio Hour
John Brennan, Former C.I.A. Director, on Being Targeted by Trump

The New Yorker Radio Hour

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 26:49


In Donald Trump's first term, he was furious that people were investigating his connections to Russia—“Russia, Russia, Russia,” he complained. Now, as Trump fulfills a campaign promise of retribution, his Administration has put the Russia “hoax” back into the headlines. They claim to have opened investigations into the former F.B.I. director James Comey and the former C.I.A. director John Brennan. A career C.IA. officer, Brennan served nearly thirty years, holding senior positions under Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama; his tenure included the controversial drone program, as well as the infamous Steele dossier on Trump during the 2016 election. David Remnick speaks with Brennan about why Trump officials are re-investigating old business. Are there real issues, or is this an attempt to direct the news cycle away from Jeffrey Epstein? “I've seen reports in the press that I'm under investigation,” Brennan points out. “But I've not heard anything from the Department of Justice, or the F.B.I., or the C.I.A., or the Office of Director of National Intelligence. No one has contacted me about anything.”

Stand Up! with Pete Dominick
1407 Sam Youngman + News & Clips

Stand Up! with Pete Dominick

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 61:29


Stand Up is a daily podcast. I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. This show is Ad free and fully supported by listeners like you! Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 700 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous souls Sam Youngman is a veteran political campaign reporter and former White House correspondent. Youngman covered the presidential campaigns of 2004, 2008 and 2012, countless U.S. House and Senate races, and the administrations of George W. Bush and Barack Obama while working for The Hill, Reuters and other news organizations. A native of Kentucky, Youngman has a BA in journalism from Western Kentucky University and now lives in Los Angeles. Today's Big Stuff is a Monday through Friday newsletter for progressive Americans who want to save their democracy while making fun of people like Donald Trump Jr. and Lauren Boebert who might actually be the same, really dumb person. . Today's Big Stuff (TBS) was founded in early 2019 by “Ready for Hillary” creator and Democratic strategist Adam Parkhomenko and former White House correspondent and veteran campaign reporter Sam Youngman. What started as a small clip service for six people, quickly expanded as thousands of stressed out Americans searched for a news source that tells it how it is — with lots of sick jokes and cuss words. In 2020, the more than 75,000 members of the Big Stuff community — also known as Sexy Patriots and Big Stufferinoes — mobilized along with 81 million other Americans to send Donald Trump crying back to Mar-a-Lago leaving a trail of urine along the way. And we're just getting started. If laughter is the best medicine, then TBS is like an injection of bleach right to the fucking face. Sign up and don't forget to share with your friends who share your twisted senses of humor and righteous outrage! Join us Monday and Thursday's at 8EST for our  Bi Weekly Happy Hour Hangout!  Pete on Blue Sky Pete on Threads Pete on Tik Tok Pete on YouTube  Pete on Twitter Pete On Instagram Pete Personal FB page Stand Up with Pete FB page All things Jon Carroll  Follow and Support Pete Coe Buy Ava's Art  Hire DJ Monzyk to build your website or help you with Marketing Gift a Subscription https://www.patreon.com/PeteDominick/gift  

Neil Rogers Show
Neil Rogers Show (August 24, 1999)

Neil Rogers Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 171:26


Eckerd,Jennifer Lopez, Tony Martin, George W drug issue, screenless, lightning round

L'univers paranormal de Christian Page

Le 11 septembre 2001, les États-Unis ont été le théâtre d'une série d'attentats meurtriers, impliquant quatre avions civils. Deux de ces appareils ont frappé les tours du World Trade Center, à New York, et un troisième a percuté l'une des façades du Pentagone, en banlieue de la capitale Washington D.C. Bilan : plus de 3000 morts. Selon la version officielle, ces actes auraient été orchestrés par le groupement terroriste Al-Qaïda, sous la férule du saoudien Oussama ben Laden. Dans les jours suivant les attentats, ces événements ont été revus et corrigés par une poignée d'individus qualifiés de «complotistes». Selon eux, ces attentats n'étaient qu'une vaste supercherie planifiée par l'administration de George W. Bush, le 43e président des États-Unis, pour la mise en place d'un Nouvel Ordre Mondial. Certains d'entre eux remettent même en question la «réalité» des avions, les substituant à des aéronefs téléguidés, des missiles, voire des hologrammes. Ces propositions résistent-elles à un examen critique ? Voir https://www.cogecomedia.com/vie-privee pour notre politique de vie privée

Minimum Competence
Legal News for Tues 7/29 - Maxwell SCOTUS Appeal, Trump Lawsuit Against WSJ, Judge Boasberg Attacks, Judge Newman Suspended, and State Tax Policy Post-OBBBA

Minimum Competence

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 8:37


This Day in Legal History: Eisenhower Signs Act Creating NASAOn July 29, 1958, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the National Aeronautics and Space Act into law, officially creating NASA. The legislation emerged in response to growing Cold War tensions and the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik the previous year. It marked a pivotal shift in U.S. federal priorities, establishing a civilian-led space agency to coordinate scientific exploration, aeronautics research, and peaceful uses of space. NASA began operations on October 1, 1958, absorbing the earlier National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) and ushering in a new era of government-backed technological ambition.Over the decades, NASA has become a symbol of American innovation, from landing astronauts on the moon to deploying the Hubble Space Telescope. Its work has catalyzed advancements not only in spaceflight, but also in climate science, materials engineering, and telecommunications. The legal framework underpinning NASA reflects a national consensus that science and exploration are critical public goods deserving of federal investment and support.But 67 years later, that consensus is showing strain. Just yesterday, NASA announced that nearly 4,000 employees—about 20% of its workforce—are leaving the agency through the Trump administration's deferred resignation program. This mass exodus follows proposed budget cuts and internal restructuring driven by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a key player in Trump's effort to slash the federal workforce.The timing couldn't be worse. The administration has called for both sweeping workforce reductions and a significant budget cut of nearly 24% for FY 2026, even as it touts long-term funding increases in the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Scientists and space advocates, including The Planetary Society, have criticized the inconsistency, calling it a direct threat to American leadership in space. A group of over 300 NASA employees echoed that concern in a public letter this week, denouncing the changes as "rapid and wasteful" and warning that they jeopardize the agency's mission.What began as a proud moment of bipartisan support for science and exploration now faces a political climate where expertise is undervalued and institutional stability is sacrificed for short-term optics.Nearly 4,000 NASA employees opt to leave agency through deferred resignation programIn her latest appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, Ghislaine Maxwell argues that her 2021 federal sex trafficking conviction should be overturned because it violated a 2007 non-prosecution agreement (NPA) originally struck between Jeffrey Epstein and federal prosecutors in Florida. Maxwell contends that the agreement, which shielded Epstein and his unnamed co-conspirators from federal charges in exchange for his state-level plea, should have also barred her later prosecution in New York. The Justice Department disputes this, saying the NPA applied only to the Southern District of Florida and does not merit Supreme Court review. Maxwell's brief criticizes the DOJ for focusing on Epstein's misconduct rather than the legal scope of the deal, framing the issue as one of government accountability to its promises. The Second Circuit previously upheld her conviction, finding no evidence that the NPA was meant to apply nationally. However, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers filed a brief supporting Maxwell, arguing that even atypical agreements must be honored if made by the government. Political tensions surrounding the Epstein case continue to complicate matters, as Maxwell recently met with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche amid renewed scrutiny of the Trump administration's handling of Epstein's prosecution. The Supreme Court is expected to consider whether to hear the case in late September.Ghislaine Maxwell Tells Supreme Court Epstein Deal Shielded HerThe Trump administration has filed a judicial misconduct complaint against Chief U.S. District Judge James Boasberg, accusing him of violating judicial ethics by expressing concerns that the administration might defy court rulings, potentially triggering a constitutional crisis. The complaint centers on comments Boasberg allegedly made during a March meeting of the judiciary's policymaking body, which included Chief Justice John Roberts. The Justice Department argues that these remarks, later echoed in his rulings, undermined judicial impartiality—particularly in a case where Boasberg blocked the deportation of Venezuelan migrants using wartime powers under the Alien Enemies Act. The administration claims Boasberg acted on a political bias when he found probable cause to hold it in criminal contempt for defying his deportation order. The DOJ has asked the D.C. Circuit to reassign the case and refer the complaint to a special investigative panel. Boasberg, appointed to the federal bench by President Obama after an earlier nomination to the D.C. Superior Court by President George W. Bush, has not publicly responded. The D.C. Circuit stayed his contempt finding, and a final ruling is still pending.Trump administration files misconduct complaint against prominent judge Boasberg | ReutersThe U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has extended the suspension of 98-year-old Judge Pauline Newman for another year, citing her continued refusal to undergo a full neuropsychological evaluation to assess her fitness to serve. Despite submitting medical reports from her own experts asserting she is mentally competent, the court concluded that those reports were insufficient and contained inaccuracies, including concerns about memory issues and fainting episodes. Newman's legal team criticized the court's swift decision, arguing that their evidence and arguments were not seriously considered following a recent hearing. Newman, a respected patent law jurist appointed by President Reagan in 1984, is the oldest active federal judge who has not taken senior status and has been a prominent dissenter on the Federal Circuit. The court originally suspended her in 2023 after Chief Judge Kimberly Moore raised concerns about her cognitive and physical condition. Newman sued over the suspension, but her case was dismissed; it is now under review by a separate federal appeals court. The latest ruling reaffirms the court's insistence on comprehensive testing before any reconsideration of her judicial role.US appeals court extends suspension of 98-year-old judge in fitness probe | ReutersDonald Trump has asked a federal court to expedite a deposition of Rupert Murdoch in his $10 billion defamation lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal over a July 17 article linking him to Jeffrey Epstein. The article claimed Trump sent Epstein a 2003 birthday greeting that included a suggestive drawing and cryptic references to shared secrets—allegations Trump calls fabricated. In a court filing, Trump's lawyers said he informed Murdoch before publication that the letter was fake, and Murdoch allegedly responded that he would “take care of it,” which they argue demonstrates actual malice—a necessary legal threshold in defamation cases involving public figures. Trump's team is seeking Murdoch's testimony within 15 days, and Judge Darrin Gayles has ordered Murdoch to respond by August 4. The article's release has intensified political scrutiny of Trump's handling of the Epstein investigation. Legal analysts note Trump faces an uphill battle given the stringent standards for proving defamation, especially against media outlets. Dow Jones, which publishes the Journal, said it stands by its reporting and intends to vigorously defend the case.Trump asks for swift deposition of Murdoch in Epstein defamation case | ReutersMy column for Bloomberg this week argues that the latest shift in federal tax law—the move from the global intangible low-taxed income (GILTI) regime to the net controlled foreign corporation tested income (NCTI) system—should push states to reassess their habitual conformity to the Internal Revenue Code. NCTI expands the scope of taxable foreign income for U.S. multinationals, reflecting a broader federal effort to combat base erosion and bolster global competitiveness. But when states automatically conform to these changes—especially through rolling conformity—they risk inheriting complex, federally motivated rules that don't align with their economic interests or legal authority.Rolling conformity is a mechanism by which a state automatically updates its tax code to reflect changes in the federal Internal Revenue Code as they occur, without requiring separate legislative action. While rolling conformity can reduce administrative friction, it's increasingly problematic in an era of aggressive and frequent federal tax rewrites. States adopting NCTI may find themselves without key federal mechanisms like foreign tax credits or Section 250 deductions, exposing them to potential legal challenges over extraterritorial taxation and apportionment. These lawsuits could be expensive, prolonged, and ultimately hinge on issues that federal tax policy has already moved past. I argue that states need to move beyond passive conformity and take an intentional, sovereign approach to tax policy—reviewing conformity statutes now, decoupling where necessary, and preparing to defend their fiscal independence in the face of Washington's rapid policy swings.Trump Tax Law Should Spur States to Split From Federal ‘Pendulum' This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

The Crisis Cast
Richard Porter - Defending Americanism

The Crisis Cast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 31:15


Richard Porter believes this is a moment worth seizing in the shifting landscape of Illinois politics. That's why Porter is passionately testing the waters as a potential Republican candidate for Dick Durbin's U.S. Senate seat.  In this episode, Porter joins Lissa Druss to preach bipartisanship as essential for effective governance. You'll hear how he defines Americanism. Plus, why he's concerned about government's penchant to rule over people, instead of serving their needs.  Richard Porter is a seasoned attorney and former Republican National Committeeman, who served as a senior domestic policy adviser to President George W. Bush.

MÓKA Podcast
#273 Goda Krisztina

MÓKA Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2025 64:00


Így készül egy nézett film! - Goda Krisztina rendező, forgatókönyv író   Magyarok Óriási Kalandjai Amerikában - ep 273   A magyar film egyik legnagyobb alkotóját, Goda Krisztinát látjuk vendégül a M.ÓK.A. Podcastban! Krisztina neve fo.galom a hazai filmvilágban. Ő az, aki bebizonyította, hogy a magyar közönségfilm lehet igényes, sikeres és nemzetközi szinten is elismert. A Csak szex és más semmi, a Szabadság, szerelem, a Kaméleon, a Veszettek vagy a BÚÉK – mind olyan filmek, amelyek a magyar mozinézők tízezreit ültették be a vetítőtermekbe, és a kritikusok is emlegetik őket. De milyen út vezetett idáig? Hogyan építette fel a karrierjét egy olyan nő, aki ma már a magyar filmipar meghatározó alakja?   Ebben az epizódban nemcsak a legújabb filmjéről, a Hogyan tudnék élni nélküled? című Demjén Ferenc-dalok ihlette zenés romantikus vígjátékról beszélgetünk, hanem arról is, hogy mi kell ahhoz, hogy egy ilyen nagyszabású projekt megvalósuljon. Pénz? Kapcsolatok? Tehetség? Krisztina őszintén mesél arról, hogyan működik a magyar filmes világ a kulisszák mögött, és mit tanult a londoni National Film and Television Schoolban vagy a UCLA forgatókönyvíró szakán, ami a mai napig meghatározza a munkáját.   Miről beszélgetünk ebben az epizódban? – Gyerekkorról, inspirációkról, azokról a pillanatokról, amikor eldőlt, hogy a kamera mögött érzi magát igazán otthon. – A pályafutása első nagy áttöréséről, a Csak szex és más semmi forgatásáról és arról, miért hitt benne, hogy a magyar vígjáték új szintre emelhető. – Az 1956-os forradalmat bemutató Szabadság, szerelem filmről, amelyet a washingtoni Fehér Házban is vetítettek, és amire még George W. Bush is felfigyelt. – A Hogyan tudnék élni nélküled? kulisszatitkairól, ami nemcsak itthon, hanem a környező országokban is rekordokat döntött, és már a folytatás is készül Mindig ugyanúgy címmel. – Törőcsik Franciska alakításairól, aki három különböző karaktert formált meg Krisztina három filmjében – és miért tartja őt az egyik legizgalmasabb magyar színésznőnek. – A New York-i Lincoln Center premierről, ahol a Liszt Intézet szervezésében Krisztina személyesen is képviselte a filmet. Hogyan fogadta az amerikai közönség a Demjén-slágerekből szőtt történetet?   Goda Krisztina nemcsak rendező, hanem forgatókönyvíró, kreatív producer és igazi műfaji „kaméleon”. Tud drámát és vígjátékot, történelmi filmet és modern kamaradarabot, miközben minden munkájában ott van az emberi történetek iránti érzékenysége. Filmjei gyakran érzelmesek, humorosak, és tele vannak olyan karakterekkel, akikben saját magunkra ismerhetünk.   Az adásban arról is szó esik, hogy a magyar filmipar mennyire pénzfüggő műfaj, és hogyan lehet ma Magyarországon nagy költségvetésű, közönségbarát filmet készíteni. Krisztina nem rejti véka alá a véleményét: beszél arról, milyen támogatások és kreatív csapatmunka kell egy sikerfilmhez, és miért fontos, hogy a forgatókönyv mindig sziklaszilárd alap legyen.   Miért érdemes végignézned ezt az epizódot? Ha érdekel a magyar film világa, vagy egyszerűen csak szereted a kulisszatitkokat, ez a beszélgetés kötelező. Ritkán hallunk ennyire őszinte, inspiráló gondolatokat arról, hogyan készül egy sikerfilm. Krisztina története nemcsak filmeseknek szól: tele van tanulságokkal, kitartásról, kreativitásról és arról, hogy hogyan maradjunk hitelesek egy olyan iparágban, ahol minden a nézők figyelméért folytatott harcról szól.   Ha tetszett az adás, ne felejts el feliratkozni a csatornánkra, hogy ne maradj le a következő inspiráló történetekről! Írd meg kommentben, melyik Goda Krisztina film a kedvenced, vagy melyik jelenet maradt meg benned legjobban. Imádjuk a közös nosztalgiát és beszélgetéseket!  

Breaking Battlegrounds
Congressman Pat Harrigan Takes on Foreign Threats and RNC Chairman Whatley Defends the Vote

Breaking Battlegrounds

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 72:59


This week on Breaking Battlegrounds, Congressman Pat Harrigan joins Chuck and Sam to discuss his new bill cracking down on foreign espionage from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, his national security wins in the NDAA, and why young Americans should consider joining the military. He also weighs in on U.S. support for Ukraine and removing Chinese influence from defense infrastructure. Next, Zach Fletcher stops by in studio to highlight the America 250 Tour, a patriotic celebration traveling to all 50 states in honor of the nation's 250th anniversary. Then, RNC Chairman Michael Whatley outlines ongoing election integrity efforts across key states like Arizona and Michigan, including lawsuits to clean up voter rolls and defend ballot deadlines. Finally, financial analyst Gary Gygi breaks down the pros and cons of passive versus active investing. And as always, stay tuned for Kiley's Corner, where she gives an update on Bryan Kohberger and the Idaho 4 case and discusses the verdict of the five hockey players accused of sexual assault after winning the 2018 World Junior Championship.www.breakingbattlegrounds.voteTwitter: www.twitter.com/Breaking_BattleFacebook: www.facebook.com/breakingbattlegroundsInstagram: www.instagram.com/breakingbattlegroundsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/breakingbattlegroundsTruth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@breakingbattlegroundsShow sponsors:Invest Yrefy - investyrefy.comOld Glory DepotSupport American jobs while standing up for your values. OldGloryDepot.com brings you conservative pride on premium, made-in-USA gear. Don't settle—wear your patriotism proudly.Learn more at: OldGloryDepot.comDot VoteWith a .VOTE website, you ensure your political campaign stands out among the competition while simplifying how you reach voters.Learn more at: dotvote.vote4Freedom MobileExperience true freedom with 4Freedom Mobile, the exclusive provider offering nationwide coverage on all three major US networks (Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile) with just one SIM card. Our service not only connects you but also shields you from data collection by network operators, social media platforms, government agencies, and more.Use code ‘Battleground' to get your first month for $9 and save $10 a month every month after.Learn more at: 4FreedomMobile.comAbout our guest:Congressman Pat Harrigan brings a lifetime of service, leadership, and innovation to the U.S. House of Representatives. A combat-decorated Green Beret and a successful entrepreneur, Congressman Harrigan has dedicated his career to tackling challenges—on the battlefield, in business, and now in Congress.After graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point with a degree in Nuclear Engineering, Congressman Harrigan commissioned as an Infantry officer and was stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska. He deployed to Afghanistan as a young Platoon Leader, commanding a remote combat outpost in the heart of the Arghandab Valley. At just 23 years old, Congressman Harrigan managed over 350 personnel and $100 million in infrastructure and equipment, gaining invaluable experience in high-pressure leadership.Recognizing the need for even greater expertise in unconventional warfare, Congressman Harrigan volunteered for and earned the Green Beret. As a member of the U.S. Army Special Forces, he returned to Afghanistan to lead operations in increasingly complex and volatile environments. For his service, he was awarded two Bronze Stars in recognition of his leadership and effectiveness in combat. These experiences shaped his understanding of the critical connection between accountability, mission success, and guiding teams under pressure.While serving in the military, Congressman Harrigan and his wife Rocky launched a small firearms business out of their home. Rooted in North Carolinian values of hard work and ingenuity, the company grew rapidly. What began in their living room quickly scaled into a thriving enterprise, producing American-made defense products that support national security. Today, the company operates out of a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Western North Carolina, creating jobs and fostering innovation for the region.The fall of Afghanistan marked a turning point for Congressman Harrigan. Watching the consequences of failed leadership unfold, he knew he had to act. Motivated by his dedication to his country and a desire to restore strength and accountability to Washington, Congressman Harrigan stepped forward to serve in Congress.Now, as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Harrigan applies the same principles that guided him in the Army and in business: bold leadership, unshakable integrity, and a commitment to delivering results.Congressman Harrigan and his wife Rocky have been married for 13 years and are the proud parents of two daughters, Reagan and McKinley. As North Carolina's voice in Congress, Pat is dedicated to serving the hardworking families and communities of the Tenth District. In every role—whether leading soldiers, growing a business, or serving his constituents—Congressman Harrigan remains dedicated to building a stronger, more secure America.-Zachary Fletcher's love for America runs deep. With over 12 years of marketing experience – including leadership roles in Fortune 500 companies – he now directs the America 250 Tour, overseeing national marketing and operations for this historic, state-by-state celebration of our nation's founding.Inspired by his mother, Kimberly Fletcher, founder of Moms for America, Zachary joined the movement to uplift mothers and preserve America's core values. He lives in Branson, Missouri, with his wife and two children, and is passionate about faith, freedom, and raising the next generation to love their country.-Michael Whatley has been a Republican activist for 40 years. He has served as the Chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party where he has led our Republican Candidates to unprecedented victories in each of the last two election cycles and has been named as General Counsel for the Republican National Committee where he will oversee all national election integrity programs.Since volunteering for Jesse Helms and President Ronald Reagan in 1984 as a sophomore at Watauga High School, Michael has knocked on doors, worked on phone banks, put out yard signs, recruited & trained volunteers and raised money for Republicans in Local, Legislative, Congressional, Senatorial and Presidential races from one end of North Carolina to the other.As a member of the Florida Recount Team, Michael fought to protect George W. Bush's historically close win and then served President Bush as a Senior Official at the Department of Energy.Michael got to see first-hand how important winning elections is for helping the citizens of North Carolina serving as Chief of Staff for Senator Elizabeth Dole.In 2015, Michael answered the call to help Donald J. Trump in North Carolina and helped deliver the Old North State for President Trump in both the 2016 and 2020 election cycles.Michael has earned a Bachelor's Degree in History from the University of North Carolina–Charlotte, a Master's Degree in Religion from Wake Forest University, a Master's Degree in Theology from the University of Notre Dame and a Law Degree from the Notre Dame Law School. He served as a Federal Law Clerk to the Honorable Robert Potter in Charlotte.Michael lives in Gaston County with his wife and three children and serves as a member of the vestry for his church.-Mr. Gary Gygi was hired by the Investment firm Dean Witter (became Morgan Stanley) after college and worked for the firm for about 15 years. During this time he achieved the position of First Vice President, Investment and branch manager of the Midvale, Utah office. Mr. Gygi won numerous sales awards and held the position of Branch Managed Money Coordinator and Branch Insurance Coordinator. Mr. Gygi left Morgan Stanley in 2003 to join the Investment management firm of Smoot Miller Cheney (later became SMC Capital) as a Senior Vice President. Mr. Gygi holds a dual registration so while affiliating with Smoot Miller Cheney; he also was a registered rep with Independent broker/dealer WBB Securities, LLC. In 2008, Mr. Gygi left SMC Capital to found Gygi Capital Management as President and CEO. Gygi Capital serves the Institutional and individual marketplace with investment management solutions. Gygi Capital is a State regulated Registered Investment Advisory firm located in Cedar Hills, Utah. Gygi affiliates with Union Capital Co. which is an independent broker/dealer firm.Contact Gary at Gygi Capital Management: (801) 649-3879 Get full access to Breaking Battlegrounds at breakingbattlegrounds.substack.com/subscribe

NC Policy Watch
The political right formally abandons deficit reduction as a priority

NC Policy Watch

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 1:05


  There was always something that didn't quite add up when American conservatives complained about federal budget deficits. Despite their supposed commitment to fiscal discipline, no factor has played a larger role in soaring deficits than Republican tax cuts enacted under presidents Ronald Reagan, George W. Bush and Donald Trump. Indeed, during the administration of […]

Leyendas Legendarias
E334: Katrina Parte 1: El Desastre (no) Natural

Leyendas Legendarias

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 70:33


En este primer episodio de Leyendas Legendarias, se revela la cruda realidad del huracán Katrina, una tragedia que fue más allá de lo natural para convertirse en un símbolo de negligencia y desigualdad. Se analiza la vulnerabilidad histórica de Nueva Orleans, el colapso de sus diques y la incompetencia gubernamental que dejó a miles desamparados. Además, se profundiza en el caos del Superdomo y los hospitales saturados, exponiendo las grietas más profundas de la sociedad estadounidense. Esta es solo la primera parte de una historia desgarradora; en la próxima entrega, se explorará aún más el sufrimiento humano y el desastre, sin olvidar el polémico papel de George W. Bush.También puedes escucharnos en Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music o tu app de podcasts favorita.Apóyanos en Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/leyendaspodcastApóyanos en YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/leyendaslegendarias/joinVisita nuestra página para ver contenido extra:www.leyendaslegendarias.comSíguenos:https://instagram.com/leyendaspodcasthttps://twitter.com/leyendaspodcasthttps://facebook.com/leyendaspodcast#Podcast #LeyendasLegendarias

John Anderson: Conversations
Epstein, Immigration and War: A Deep Dive | Victor Davis Hanson

John Anderson: Conversations

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 77:08


Victor Davis Hanson examines the Jeffrey Epstein saga's divisive impact on American politics and the MAGA movement, while commending the Trump administration's military, technological, and immigration policy successes. He urges Australia to strengthen its defence, fortifying the ANZUS alliance against autocratic threats like China.Critiquing distorted historical narratives that skew policy, Hanson advocates for a cohesive Western response to address authoritarian challenges, trade imbalances, and demographic declines. Victor Davis Hanson is an American classicist, military historian, columnist, and farmer. He has been a commentator on contemporary politics for the National Review and The Washington Times and is currently the Martin and Illie Anderson Senior Fellow at Stanford University's Hoover Institution. In addition to writing hundreds of articles, book reviews and newspaper editorials, Hanson is also the author of twenty-four books and hosts a regular podcast series, 'The Victor Davis Hanson Show'. Hanson was awarded the National Humanities Medal in 2007 by President George W. Bush, and was a presidential appointee in 2007-08 on the American Battle Monuments Commission. His latest book, The Dying Citizen, was published in October 2021. And his next book, soon to be released on May the 7th this year, The End of Everything, How Wars Descend Into Annihilation.

Leyendas Legendarias
E334: Katrina Parte 1: El Desastre (no) Natural

Leyendas Legendarias

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 70:33


En este primer episodio de Leyendas Legendarias, se revela la cruda realidad del huracán Katrina, una tragedia que fue más allá de lo natural para convertirse en un símbolo de negligencia y desigualdad. Se analiza la vulnerabilidad histórica de Nueva Orleans, el colapso de sus diques y la incompetencia gubernamental que dejó a miles desamparados. Además, se profundiza en el caos del Superdomo y los hospitales saturados, exponiendo las grietas más profundas de la sociedad estadounidense. Esta es solo la primera parte de una historia desgarradora; en la próxima entrega, se explorará aún más el sufrimiento humano y el desastre, sin olvidar el polémico papel de George W. Bush.También puedes escucharnos en Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music o tu app de podcasts favorita.Apóyanos en Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/leyendaspodcastApóyanos en YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/leyendaslegendarias/joinVisita nuestra página para ver contenido extra:www.leyendaslegendarias.comSíguenos:https://instagram.com/leyendaspodcasthttps://twitter.com/leyendaspodcasthttps://facebook.com/leyendaspodcast#Podcast #LeyendasLegendarias

The Ben and Skin Show
When Ozzy Hung Out With George W. Bush

The Ben and Skin Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 5:02 Transcription Available


“What happens when Ozzy Osbourne stands on a table at the White House… and why did it make George W. Bush's mom laugh?”In this wild and hilarious episode of The Ben and Skin Show, Ben Rogers, Jeff “Skin” Wade, Kevin “KT” Turner, and Krystina Ray dive headfirst into a chaotic mix of pop culture, sports, and absurdity that only this crew can deliver

The Ben and Skin Show
Full Show: July 23, 2025

The Ben and Skin Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 64:14 Transcription Available


Micah Parsons vs. Jerry Jones: Micah and Trevon Diggs hold a surprise press conference, clapping back at Jerry's public criticism and fines. Micah's declaration—“I'm not here to please another grown man”—sets the tone for a fiery debate about leadership, loyalty, and contract politics.Funniest Moment: KT on the Cowboys' contract guy: “Adam Pacifica looks like a guy who would have the nickname ‘The Calculator.'”

The Chuck ToddCast: Meet the Press
Epstein and Hunter Biden are “Shiny Objects” + Who Succeeds Trump? + The Real-Life Spycraft & Geopolitics Inspiring Daniel Silva's Books

The Chuck ToddCast: Meet the Press

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 114:05


Chuck Todd begins by addressing the “two shiny objects” in media this week: Epstein and Hunter Biden. He compares Donald Trump's defensive, suspicious response to the Epstein files to his response to the Russia investigation in his first term, and explains why Trump's denials won't appease the conspiracists in his base. He comments on Hunter Biden's recent appearances in media and explains why he wouldn't book him for the ToddCast. He also examines the field of candidates that could succeed Trump for the Republican nomination in 2028.Then, best-selling novelist Daniel Silva joins Chuck for a wide-ranging conversation about his acclaimed Gabriel Allon spy thriller series and the craft of writing. Silva discusses how real-world events and changing global perceptions, particularly around Israel, inform his fictional narratives, while sharing behind-the-scenes insights into his research process—from Vatican experiences to staying current with evolving spycraft and art restoration techniques. The conversation reveals how Silva has attracted high-profile fans like Presidents Clinton and Bush, and explores his concerns about populist movements and antisemitic elements within contemporary politics.The discussion also delves into Silva's creative process, his passion for art and restoration, and his thoughts on the future of publishing in an AI-dominated world. Silva reflects on the challenges facing the next generation of writers, the evolution of independent bookstores, and whether artificial intelligence poses a threat to novelists who dream of building long-running series like his 25-book Gabriel Allon collection. The episode concludes with Silva's summer reading recommendations and a playful question about whether he ever dreams as his famous protagonist.Finally, he reflects on the life of Ozzy Ozborne and the impact Ozborne made on him growing up, and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction01:30 Resurrecting and revitalizing local news02:30 The best journalism is done in service of local audiences05:00 Michigan gubernatorial race has three viable candidates08:00 The two shiny objects this week are Epstein and Hunter Biden09:30 Mike Johnson shut down the house out of fear of Epstein vote12:00 There are enough facts in the Epstein case to validate the conspiracists14:30 Crazy is rewarded in Republican primaries16:30 Trump's behavior creates suspicion, like he did with Russia18:00 Trump doesn't own the conspiracist base, he borrowed it20:00 Trump is trying all kinds of distractions21:15 Obama allegations are pure distraction and propaganda23:30 Hunter Biden doesn't offer any value as a guest in media24:30 Hunter's media appearances don't do Joe Biden or Dems any good26:00 Running for president can do major damage to a candidate's family27:30 A president has to put the country over their family30:15 There's no “invisible primary” on the Republican side31:30 The runner up usually becomes the next Republican nominee33:30 Will the front runner be someone Trump anoints?35:00 If Trump tanks the economy, it could open up the primary36:00 The different archetypes of potential Trump successors42:15 The primary will be a campaign for the affection of Trump42:45 Daniel Silva joins the Chuck ToddCast! 44:00 Do you know the title of a book before writing it? 45:15 Do you get to know Daniel by reading his books? 46:45 The real world informs the imagined world of his books 49:45 How have changing perceptions of Israel informed his book? 51:15 No desire to write about the Israel/Palestine conflict 52:45 Bill Clinton and George W. Bush are both fans of the books 55:00 The books reflect the importance of institutions 56:45 Populists on both sides don't care about the post cold war order 57:30 The MAGA movement is dripping with antisemetic elements 59:00 Daniel's journey into Vatican themed fiction 1:01:15 Daniel's personal experiences at the Vatican 1:02:15 Where did his passion for art come from? 1:03:45 How does he keep up with changing trends in spycraft and art? 1:06:45 When does art go from restoration to completely remodeled? 1:09:30 What defines a "fraudulent restoration"? 1:10:45 How much are actual intelligence agents part of your source material? 1:11:45 Gabriel Allon wouldn't have pulled the trigger on the Israeli "beeper" op 1:13:15 Cell phones are the greatest surveillance tool ever created 1:15:00 Will you pivot to China as the boogeyman in the books? 1:15:45 How many more Gabriel Allon books are left to be written? 1:18:15 Does Daniel's family see their own stories in his books? 1:19:15 The evolution of the publishing/printing industry 1:21:45 Independent bookstores need to host events to sell books 1:25:00 The ability of AI to write in your voice 1:26:00 More worried about societal disruptions caused by AI 1:27:00 Skills you can pass to a child might not be relevant in 15 years 1:28:15 Will a 30 year old novelist be able to make a 25 book series in the future? 1:29:00 The Daniel Silva summer reading list 1:31:15 Do you ever dream as Gabriel Allon?1:37:00 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Daniel Silva 1:37:30 RIP to Ozzy Osborne 1:42:15 Ask Chuck 1:42:30 Talking politics and current events with kids? 1:46:15 How will the Department of Education changes affect small districts? 1:48:30 Why don't you start a "get to know your district" show with Colbert?

C dans l'air
Raphaëlle Bacqué - Google, Facebook, Amazon...sous la coupe de Trump

C dans l'air

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 11:48


C dans l'air l'invitée du 21 juillet 2025 - Raphaëlle Bacqué, grand reporter au journal Le Monde"L'âge d'or de l'Amérique commence maintenant !", a lancé Donald Trump lors de son investiture, le 20 janvier 2025. Ce jour-là, à ses côtés : les anciens présidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, et la vice-présidente Kamala Harris. Mais ce que l'on retient surtout, c'est la présence d'Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, Tim Cook, Sundar Pichai ou encore Sam Altman, figures de proue de la tech américaine. Dans une série de six articles, la journaliste Raphaëlle Bacqué retrace leur ascension fulgurante et leur ralliement progressif à Donald Trump. Certains étaient pourtant de fervents défenseurs des démocrates. En 2021, après l'assaut du Capitole, Meta avait suspendu les comptes de Trump. Quatre ans plus tard, Mark Zuckerberg verse un million de dollars à l'organisation de l'investiture de Donald Trump et s'apprête à l'indemniser à hauteur de 25 millions. Chez Meta, les sujets politiques, religieux ou liés au genre sont désormais tabous. Une dérive autocratique s'observe au sein de l'entreprise.Le virage est général. Jeff Bezos, propriétaire du "Washington Post" depuis 2013, avait lui aussi soutenu Hillary Clinton, puis Joe Biden. Il a depuis obtenu que la rédaction s'abstienne de prendre parti pour la dernière présidentielle américaine. Les affaires priment sur les idéologies. Quant à Elon Musk, hilare au premier rang, il incarne à la fois la démesure et l'audace. Sur X (ex-Twitter), il insulte, modifie les algorithmes au gré de ses humeurs et attaque désormais Donald Trump sur l'affaire Epstein. De meilleur ami à meilleur ennemi, le divorce entre Donald Trump et Elon Musk semble consommé.Comment ces patrons de la tech ont-ils rallié Donald Trump ? Quelle influence exercent-ils sur la vie politique américaine ? Et comment redessinent-ils les rapports de pouvoir ?Raphaëlle Bacqué, grand reporter au journal Le Monde décrypte comment les patrons de la Silicon Valley, de Google à Amazon en passant par Meta, ont choisi de rallier Donald Trump.

Teaching Learning Leading K-12
Laura Levine - President & CEO - JumpStart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy - 775

Teaching Learning Leading K-12

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 47:22


Laura Levine - President & CEO - JumpStart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy. This is episode 775 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast. Laura Levine has devoted her career to helping people of all ages better understand financial services through marketing and outreach, communications, and most recently, through education. In 2004, she became executive director of the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy, a Washington DC-based nonprofit organization committed to “financial smarts for students,” and was named President and CEO in 2011.   Since taking over at Jump$tart, Laura has continued to raise awareness about the importance of financial literacy and the need for effective financial education. Under her leadership, Jump$tart launched the Jump$tart National Educator Conference, Jump$tart Financial Foundations for Educators and J$FFE Online, Project Groundswell/Check Your School and the Jump$tart Teen Teach-In, as well as the coalition's social media efforts. Laura guided the expansion of Financial Literacy for Youth Month to the broader Financial Literacy Month (sometimes called National Financial Capability Month) observed today. While growing the coalition at both the state and national levels, she led the enhancement of legacy programs including the Jump$tart Clearinghouse and National Standards for Personal Financial Education.   In 2008, Laura was appointed to the President's Advisory Council on Financial Literacy by President George W. Bush and chaired the Council's Youth Committee. She is currently a member of the Experian Consumer Council, the Forbes Nonprofit Council, CNBC Financial Wellness Council, the Community Advisory Forum for Fifth Third Bank, and has held many voluntary appointments, including having served on the Parent Cabinet for DCPS Chancellor Kaya Henderson. Laura speaks and writes on financial literacy topics, especially guidance for parents and family members, and the important role that classroom-based financial education can have in advancing financial equity and inclusion. Laura began her career in credit unions and was a credentialed, Capitol Hill correspondent before moving into the securities industry. She served as Director of Editorial Services for the National Association of Securities Dealers (now FINRA) and, later, as Director of Education and Information for the NASD Office of Individual Investor Services. From 1999-2004, Laura was Director of the NASDAQ Educational Foundation. A native of Los Angeles, Laura holds a degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Southern California. She does not consider herself a financial expert, but rather, a staunch advocate for financial education and information and – she hopes – she has raised a financially literate son. Our focus today is the need for financial education, the impact of financial education, and mobilizing passionate advocates nationwide. Awesome conversation! So much to learn! So much to do! Thanks for listening! Thanks for sharing! Before you go... You could help support this podcast by Buying Me A Coffee. Not really buying me something to drink but clicking on the link on my home page at https://stevenmiletto.com for Buy Me a Coffee or by going to this link Buy Me a Coffee. This would allow you to donate to help the show address the costs associated with producing the podcast from upgrading gear to the fees associated with producing the show. That would be cool. Thanks for thinking about it.  Hey, I've got another favor...could you share the podcast with one of your friends, colleagues, and family members? Hmmm? What do you think? Thank you! You are AWESOME! Connect & Learn More: laura.levine@jumpstart.org https://www.jumpstart.org https://x.com/JumpStart1995/ https://www.facebook.com/Jumpstart1995/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/jumpstart1995/ Length - 47:22

Dave & Mahoney
George W. Can Dodge A Shoe

Dave & Mahoney

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 55:24


Show Features: Are You Smarter Than A College Community Dropout, Redneck Report and the PoptrashSocials: @DaveandMahoney Voice Mail: 833-Yo-Dummy https://www.twitch.tv/daveandmahoney Additional Content: daveandmahoney.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

America's Roundtable
America's Roundtable with Ambassador Gilmore | President Trump's Policy of Peace Through Strength | Ending Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

America's Roundtable

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2025 25:20


Follow us on X: @gov_gilmore @americasrt1776 @ileaderssummit @NatashaSrdoc @JoelAnandUSA @supertalk Join America's Roundtable (https://americasrt.com/) radio co-hosts Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy with Ambassador James Gilmore, former U.S. Ambassador to the OSCE, the 86th Governor and former Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Virginia. During the program, Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy delve into the major shift in US foreign policy, specifically as it pertains to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. President Trump has authorized for Ukraine to receive US weapons in defending the nation from Russian attacks. President Trump stated that he would infuse Ukraine with US weapons which are purchased by European allies. President Trump simultaneously issued an ultimatum to Russian President Vladimir Putin, giving him 50 days to arrange a ceasefire or face trade sanctions. What does this change mean for America and its potential engagement with Ukraine and NATO partners? How will Russia's Putin respond? Is America's attitude toward supporting Ukraine changing, or will the concerns of isolationism remain a stumbling block? Ambassador Gilmore served as America's top diplomat to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in President Donald Trump's first administration. His firm leadership through the Trump Administration made an impact within Europe's capital cities and its corridors of power specifically in regard to holding Russia to account. In 2020, then-Ambassador Gilmore at a OSCE conference in Vienna, Austria, stated: "The United States has repeatedly condemned Russia's invasion, occupation, and purported annexation of Ukraine's Crimean peninsula and the abuses that Russia commits there. In fact, I just finished doing that in response to their raising some trivial little error we made, but NOT an error of our policy. Today we would like to draw attention to the Russian government's continuing conscription of individuals from Crimea into Russia's armed forces. Compelling persons protected by the Fourth Geneva Convention to serve in the forces of a hostile power is a grave breach of the Geneva Convention, and a violation of the obligations that the Russian Federation owes under its subscription to the Geneva Convention. Once again, a violation of international norms and behavior and commitments that the Russian Federation has made and now violates." Follow us on X: @gov_gilmore @americasrt1776 @ileaderssummit @NatashaSrdoc @JoelAnandUSA @supertalk America's Roundtable is co-hosted by Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy, co-founders of International Leaders Summit and the Jerusalem Leaders Summit. America's Roundtable (https://americasrt.com/) radio program focuses on America's economy, healthcare reform, rule of law, security and trade, and its strategic partnership with rule of law nations around the world. The radio program features high-ranking US administration officials, cabinet members, members of Congress, state government officials, distinguished diplomats, business and media leaders and influential thinkers from around the world. Tune into America's Roundtable Radio program from Washington, DC via live streaming on Saturday mornings via 68 radio stations at 7:30 A.M. (ET) on Lanser Broadcasting Corporation covering the Michigan and the Midwest market, and at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk Mississippi — SuperTalk.FM reaching listeners in every county within the State of Mississippi, and neighboring states in the South including Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana and Tennessee. Tune into WTON in Central Virginia on Sunday mornings at 6:00 A.M. (ET). Listen to America's Roundtable on digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, Google and other key online platforms. Listen live, Saturdays at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk | https://www.supertalk.fm

The Beached White Male Podcast with Ken Kemp
S6E37 The Tragedy of Indifference: Peter Wehner on Faith, Politics, and AIDS Relief

The Beached White Male Podcast with Ken Kemp

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2025 53:25


Send us a textIn this important and timely episode, I welcome back journalist, author, and friend of the podcast, Peter Wehner. We dig into his provocative and widely discussed article in The Atlantic: “Why Evangelicals Turned Their Back on PEPFAR.”PEPFAR—President George W. Bush's historic global AIDS relief program—has saved over 26 million lives and prevented millions of HIV infections. Once championed by American evangelicals, the program is now in crisis. Under Donald Trump's second term, PEPFAR was effectively shut down. Clinics have closed, aid has stalled, and more than 75,000 lives have already been lost—with millions more at risk.So why the silence from the evangelical community?Peter and I explore the cultural, political, and theological reasons behind this shift—from compassion to indifference—and why this issue, which should unite pro-life Christians, has instead fallen off the radar. We also reflect on how partisan loyalty, fear of division, and moral inconsistency have muted the response to one of the most effective humanitarian programs in U.S. history.This conversation is urgent, eye-opening, and deeply relevant to anyone who cares about faith, politics, and the real-world impact of silence. I hope you'll join us. This is one you don't want to miss. SHOW NOTESMSNBC Morning JoeRNS on PEPFARRNS - Nashville's Christian music stars join activists in push to save PEPFARHoly Post talks about PEPFARSupport the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

Neil Rogers Show
Neil Rogers Show (November 15, 2004)

Neil Rogers Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2025 132:45


passing of rapper Old Dirty Bastard, Darva Conger, and Dick Cheney's infamous "snug" pants. Howard Stern Show and its possible move to Sirius, the Miami Dolphins' poor performance in football. POLL: what worries people most about four more years of George W. Bush, the aftermath of Operation Fallujah, difficulties with corporate owners, satellite radio censorship, and a potential exodus of Americans to Canada

The Un-Diplomatic Podcast
Spencer Ackerman's New York State of Mind: Peace, Populism, and Zohran Mamdani | Ep. 250

The Un-Diplomatic Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2025 34:51


Award-winning journalist, author, and lifelong New Yorker Spencer Ackerman joins the show to talk about the world from a New York point of view: The importance of NYC-DSA and the Zohran Mamdani mayoral campaign; how New York's oligarchs used unfounded claims of anti-semitism to protect class privilege; ICE's preparations to do mass extraordinary renditions; how Donald Trump's presidency has become the Global War on Terror that he used to mock George W. Bush for; and why US Central Command's new viceroy inflates the Iran threat (it's for Israel). Subscribe to the Forever Wars Newsletter: https://www.forever-wars.com/ Subscribe to the Un-Diplomatic Newsletter: https://www.un-diplomatic.com/

Too Opinionated
Too Opinionated Interview: Vince Palamara

Too Opinionated

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 56:14


Vince Palamara, born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, is considered to be the leading civilian literary Secret Service expert, having interviewed and corresponded with over 80 former Secret Service agents who guarded Presidents Franklin Roosevelt, Harry Truman, Dwight Eisenhower, John F Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W Bush, and Barack Obama. All told, Palamara has appeared in well over 60 books by various authors covering the Secret Service, various presidents, the CIA, and even Marilyn Monroe. Palamara has also appeared several times on The History Channel, C-SPAN, PCN, and various cable television outlets, not to mention quite a few radio programs. Vince Palamara is the author of 7 books: SURVIVOR'S GUILT: THE SECRET SERVICE AND THE FAILURE TO PROTECT PRESIDENT KENNEDY (2013), JFK: FROM PARKLAND TO BETHESDA- THE ULTIMATE KENNEDY ASSASSINATION COMPENDIUM (2015), THE NOT SO SECRET SERVICE- AGENCY TALES FROM FDR TO THE KENNEDY ASSASSINATION TO THE REAGAN ERA (2017), WHO'S WHO IN THE SECRET SERVICE: HISTORY'S MOST RENOWNED AGENTS (2018), HONEST ANSWERS ABOUT THE MURDER OF PRESIDENT JOHN F. KENNEDY: A NEW LOOK AT THE JFK ASSASSINATION (2021), THE PLOT TO KILL PRESIDENT KENNEDY IN CHICAGO & THE OTHER TRACES OF CONSPIRACY LEADING TO THE ASSASSINATION OF JFK – A VISUAL INVESTIGATION (2024), and PRESIDENT KENNEDY SHOULD HAVE SURVIVED DALLAS: THE SECRET SERVICE & THE JFK ASSASSINATION (2025). Want to watch: YouTube Meisterkhan Pod (Please Subscribe)

Personally Speaking with Msgr. Jim Lisante
Personally Speaking ep. 267 (Dana Perino)

Personally Speaking with Msgr. Jim Lisante

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 27:58


In this episode of Personally Speaking Msgr. Jim Lisante is joined by Fox News Channel's Dana Perino. Dana currently co-anchors “America's Newsroom with Bill Hemmer and Dana Perino” and she serves as co-host of “The Five”, one of the most popular shows on cable television. Prior to joining Fox News Channel, Dana served as the White House press secretary for President George W. Bush. Dana is a New York Times bestselling author and her latest book is titled, “I Wish Someone Had Told Me…” She talks about her life, her career, her marriage and the faith and values that matter to her most.Support the show

rose bros podcast
#235: Bob McNally (Rapidan) - The White House Days & How Swing Producers Affect Oil Prices

rose bros podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 54:57


Greetings, and welcome back to the podcast. This episode we are joined by Mr. Bob McNally - founder and president of Rapidan Energy Group - an independent energy market, policy, and geopolitical analysis firm based in the Washington, DC area.Bob's 34-year career includes service as a White House energy advisor to President George W. Bush, an oil market analyst, and a hedge fund strategist at Tudor Investment Corporation. His acclaimed book Crude Volatility: The History and the Future of Boom-Bust Oil Prices (Columbia University Press, 2017) received the Honorable Mention in Economics in the 2018 PROSE Awards; the 2023 IAEE Marcel Boiteux Best International Energy Economics Book Award; and the 2024 USAEE Adelman-Frankel Award for unique and innovative contribution to the field of energy economics.Leading media outlets regularly interview Bob, who frequently testifies before Congress on energy markets and national security. From 2001 to 2003, he served as Special Assistant to the President on the White House National Economic Council and, in 2003, Senior Director for International Energy on the National Security Council.Bob earned his B.A./B.S. in Political Science and International Relations from American University and his M.A. in International Economics and Foreign Policy from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS).Among other things we discussed The White House Days & How Swing Producers Affect Oil Prices.Thank you to our sponsors.Without their support this episode would not be possible:Connate Water SolutionsATB Capital MarketsEPACAstro Rentals JSGSupport the show

featured Wiki of the Day
Hurricane Claudette (2003)

featured Wiki of the Day

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 2:28


fWotD Episode 2995: Hurricane Claudette (2003) Welcome to featured Wiki of the Day, your daily dose of knowledge from Wikipedia's finest articles.The featured article for Thursday, 17 July 2025, is Hurricane Claudette (2003).Hurricane Claudette was a moderately strong tropical cyclone that struck South Texas in July 2003. A fairly long-lived July Atlantic hurricane, Claudette was the fourth depression, third tropical storm and first hurricane of the 2003 Atlantic hurricane season. Claudette began as a tropical wave in the eastern Caribbean. It moved quickly westward, brushing past the Yucatán Peninsula before moving northwestward through the Gulf of Mexico. Claudette remained a tropical storm until just before making landfall in Port O'Connor, Texas, when it quickly strengthened to a strong Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. Forecasting of its path and intensity was uncertain throughout its lifetime, resulting in widespread and often unnecessary preparations along its path.Claudette was the first hurricane to make landfall in July in the United States since Hurricane Danny in the 1997 season. The hurricane caused two deaths and moderate damage in Texas, mostly from strong winds, as well as extensive beach erosion. Because of the damage, President George W. Bush declared portions of South Texas a Federal Disaster Area, allowing the affected citizens to apply for aid. Claudette also caused significant rainfall and minor damage in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo as a tropical storm, as well as minor damage on Saint Lucia before developing into a tropical cyclone.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 00:59 UTC on Thursday, 17 July 2025.For the full current version of the article, see Hurricane Claudette (2003) on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm standard Kendra.

The Holy Post
678: Is Gen Z Having a Religious Revival? with Ryan Burge

The Holy Post

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 90:18


The IRS has decided churches are no longer prohibited from endorsing political candidates. Is this a win for free speech or a reason for some churches to become even more partisan? The Department of Homeland Security has released a creepy new promotional video that uses the Bible to frame border security as a mission from God. The Christian who gave George W. Bush the idea of “compassionate conservatism” says the passing of the Big Beautiful Bill marks the end of an era for the GOP. Professor Ryan Burge is back with data about the religious outlook of Gen Z. Some see evidence of a revival, but Burge says it's probably wishful thinking. Also this week, animal fashion news: chimp drip edition.   World Relief: https://worldrelief.org/advocate/   Holy Post Plus: Bonus Interview with Ryan Burge: https://www.patreon.com/posts/134198348/   Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/134204161/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:22 - Theme Song   3:44  - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   4:48 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/HOLYPOST to receive 50% off your first order   5:55 - Chimp Fashion!   12:56 - Christian in Government with PEPFAR   16:07 - The Johnson Amendment   29:24 - Bible Verse in an ICE Recruitment Ad   40:59 - Why Is the Church So Libertarian?   55:33 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   56:42 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   58:00 - Interview   1:00:45 - Why Are They Saying It's a “Revival?”   1:09:05 - Can Revival Be Predicted?   1:16:50 - Church and Loneliness   1:29:46 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Chimps and Grassy Fashion! https://www.iflscience.com/chimps-are-sticking-grass-in-their-ears-and-rears-as-they-embrace-pointless-fad-79910   Other Resources: Ryan Burge's Article on Gen Z Revival: https://www.graphsaboutreligion.com/p/is-there-a-religious-revival-occurring   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

The FOX News Rundown
Who Was Authorizing President Biden's Autopen?

The FOX News Rundown

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 33:24


The Republicans are investigating President Joe Biden's use of the autopen while in office. Although many presidents have used the autopen in the past, President Trump and others have expressed concerns about Biden's cognitive abilities and his awareness of the actions his administration was taking during his term. The former president defends his own use of the autopen, telling the New York Times that he always authorized its use. Marc Thiessen, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a former speechwriter for President George W. Bush, provides insight into the ongoing investigation. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has proposed a federal ban on Chinese nationals and other foreign adversaries from purchasing American farmland. Agriculture Secretary Rollins called this a major national issue and said concerns still remain over the food processing plants and farms already acquired by the Chinese, which are situated near U.S. military bases. Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen joins the Rundown to discuss security threats posed by China's economic influence and why he believes Americans should reject Chinese-made products and support domestic goods instead. Plus, commentary from radio host and author of “What's Killing America,” Jason Rantz. Photo Credit: AP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Tara Show
Trump Ends Catch and Release: Historic Crackdown on Illegal Immigration Sparks Nationwide Showdown

The Tara Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 9:51


In this segment, hosts detail Donald Trump's sweeping return to pre-Bush immigration enforcement, ending “catch and release” policies that have governed the border for over two decades. Under the new directives, all illegal immigrants will be detained without bond until deportation, leveraging an expanded force of deputized local law enforcement and new detention facilities—dubbed “Alligator Alcatrazes”—across GOP-led states. The discussion contrasts Trump's aggressive approach with what they see as decades of bipartisan neglect, traces the origins of the crisis to George W. Bush, and predicts that legal challenges from Democrats will follow swiftly. The hosts hail the move as the strictest immigration policy in modern history and a long-overdue return to enforcing existing federal law.

From Washington – FOX News Radio
Who Was Authorizing President Biden's Autopen?

From Washington – FOX News Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 33:24


The Republicans are investigating President Joe Biden's use of the autopen while in office. Although many presidents have used the autopen in the past, President Trump and others have expressed concerns about Biden's cognitive abilities and his awareness of the actions his administration was taking during his term. The former president defends his own use of the autopen, telling the New York Times that he always authorized its use. Marc Thiessen, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a former speechwriter for President George W. Bush, provides insight into the ongoing investigation. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has proposed a federal ban on Chinese nationals and other foreign adversaries from purchasing American farmland. Agriculture Secretary Rollins called this a major national issue and said concerns still remain over the food processing plants and farms already acquired by the Chinese, which are situated near U.S. military bases. Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen joins the Rundown to discuss security threats posed by China's economic influence and why he believes Americans should reject Chinese-made products and support domestic goods instead. Plus, commentary from radio host and author of “What's Killing America,” Jason Rantz. Photo Credit: AP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Courageous Leadership with Virginia Prodan
# 334- Jane Cook - former White House staffer for former President George W. Bush - our guest.

Courageous Leadership with Virginia Prodan

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 30:33


We're Honored to Welcome Jane Cook — Former White House Staffer for President George W. Bush — - as Our Guest This Week - at Courageous Leadership with Virginia Prodan #Podcast! As part of this week's training, we're thrilled to bring you an encouraging and empowering message from Jane Cook—designed to help you realize your God-given potential and grow into the purpose He has for your life. Jane is passionate about igniting patriotism and making American history relevant to today's culture, news, politics, and faith. A gifted communicator, she is an award-winning screenwriter and the author of 18 books, including: War of Lies: When George Washington Was the Target and Propaganda Was the Crime The Submarine and the Spies: Friendship and Vigilance in the American Revolution Jane is currently working to release several new titles on the Revolutionary War ahead of America's 250th birthday in 2026. She is also the creator of the upcoming children's book series, Revolutionary Readers for America's 250th, featuring My American Flag and other titles that teach elementary-aged children about the Pledge of Allegiance, patriotic songs, and the foundational values of our great nation. We are so excited for you to hear from Jane—and we know her words will inspire you to stand strong in faith and freedom.   Stay Connected with Virginia Prodan 

Fox News Rundown Evening Edition
Who Was Authorizing President Biden's Autopen?

Fox News Rundown Evening Edition

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 33:24


The Republicans are investigating President Joe Biden's use of the autopen while in office. Although many presidents have used the autopen in the past, President Trump and others have expressed concerns about Biden's cognitive abilities and his awareness of the actions his administration was taking during his term. The former president defends his own use of the autopen, telling the New York Times that he always authorized its use. Marc Thiessen, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a former speechwriter for President George W. Bush, provides insight into the ongoing investigation. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has proposed a federal ban on Chinese nationals and other foreign adversaries from purchasing American farmland. Agriculture Secretary Rollins called this a major national issue and said concerns still remain over the food processing plants and farms already acquired by the Chinese, which are situated near U.S. military bases. Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen joins the Rundown to discuss security threats posed by China's economic influence and why he believes Americans should reject Chinese-made products and support domestic goods instead. Plus, commentary from radio host and author of “What's Killing America,” Jason Rantz. Photo Credit: AP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Unstoppable Mindset
Episode 353 – Unstoppable Comedian with Greg Schwem

Unstoppable Mindset

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 69:38


You are in for a real treat on this episode. My guest this time is Greg Schwem. Greg is a corporate comedian. What is a corporate comedian? You probably can imagine that his work has to do with corporations, and you would be right. Greg will explain much better than I can. Mr. Schwem began his career as a TV journalist but eventually decided to take up what he really wanted to do, be a comedian. The story of how he evolved is quite fascinating by any standard. Greg has done comedy professionally since 1989. He speaks today mostly to corporate audiences. He will tell us how he does his work. It is quite interesting to hear how he has learned to relate to his audiences. As you will discover as Greg and I talk, we often work in the same way to learn about our audiences and thus how we get to relate to them. Greg has written three books. His latest one is entitled “Turning Gut Punches into Punch Lines: A Comedian's Journey Through Cancer, Divorce and Other Hilarious Stuff”. As Greg says, “Don't worry, it's not one of those whiny, ‘woe is me,' self- serving books. Instead, it's a hilarious account of me living the words I've been preaching to my audiences: You can always find humor in every situation, even the tough ones. Greg offers many interesting observations as he discusses his career and how he works. I think we all can find significant lessons we can use from his remarks. About the Guest: Hi! I'm Greg Schwem. a Chicago-based business humor speaker and MC who HuffPost calls “Your boss's favorite comedian.” I've traveled the world providing clean, customized laughs to clients such as Microsoft, IBM, McDonald's and even the CIA. I also write the bi-weekly Humor Hotel column for the Chicago Tribune syndicate. I believe every corporate event needs humor. As I often tell clients, “When times are good, people want to laugh. When times are bad, people need to laugh.” One Fortune 500 client summed things up perfectly, saying “You were fantastic and just what everybody needed during these times.” In September 2024 I released my third and most personal book, Turning Gut Punches into Punch Lines: A Comedian's Journey Through Cancer, Divorce and Other Hilarious Stuff. Don't worry, it's not one of those whiny, “woe is me,” self-serving books. Instead, it's a hilarious account of me living the words I've been preaching to my audiences: You can always find humor in every situation, even the tough ones. You can pick up a copy at Amazon or select book stores. Ways to connect with Greg: Website: www.gregschwem.com YouTube: www.youtube.com/gregschwem LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/gregschwem Instagram: www.instagram.com/gregschwem X: www.x.com/gregschwem About the Host: Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog. Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards. https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/ accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/ https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset . Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Transcription Notes: Michael Hingson ** 00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us.   Michael Hingson ** 01:16 Hi everyone, and welcome to unstoppable mindset. Today we are going to definitely have some fun. I'll tell you about our guests in a moment, but first, I want to tell you about me. That'll take an hour or so. I am Michael Hingson, your host, and you're listening to unstoppable mindset where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. And I don't know, we may get inclusion or diversity into this, but our guest is Greg Schwem. Greg used to be a TV reporter, now he's a comedian, not sure which is funnier, but given some of the reporters I've seen on TV, they really should go into tonight club business. But anyway, Greg, I want to welcome you to unstoppable mindset. We're really glad you're here. I really appreciate you being here and taking the time   Greg Schwem ** 02:04 Well, Michael, it is an honor to be included on your show. I'm really looking forward to the next hour of conversation. I   Speaker 1 ** 02:10 told Greg a little while ago, one of my major life ambitions that I never got to do was to go to a Don Rickles concert and sit in the front row so that hopefully he would pick on me, so that I could say, Yeah, I saw you once on TV, and I haven't been able to see since. What do you think of that? You hockey puck, but I never got to do it. So very disappointed. But everybody has bucket list moments, everybody has, but they don't get around to I'm sorry. Yeah, I know. Well, the other one is, I love to pick on Mike Wallace. I did a radio show for six years opposite him in 60 minutes, and I always love to say that Wallace really had criminal tendencies, because he started out being an announcer in radio and he announced things like The Green Hornet and the Sky King and other shows where they had a lot of criminals. So I just figured he had to be associated with criminals somewhere in his life. Of course, everybody picked on him, and he had broad shoulders. And I again, I regret I never got to to meet him, which is sort of disappointing. But I did get to meet Peter Falk. That was kind of fun.   Greg Schwem ** 03:15 Mike Wallace to Peter Falk. Nice transition there. I know.   Michael Hingson ** 03:21 Well I am really glad you're with us. So why don't we start? We'll start with the serious part. Why don't you tell us, kind of about the early Greg schwim and growing up and all that sort of stuff, just to set the stage, as it were,   Greg Schwem ** 03:34 how far back you want to go? You want to go back to Little League, or you want to   Speaker 1 ** 03:37 just, oh, start at the beginning, a long time ago, right? I was a   Greg Schwem ** 03:41 very strange child. No, I you. You obviously introduced me as a as a comedian, and that is my full time job. And you also said that I was a former journalist, and that is my professional career. Yes, I went from, as I always like to say, I went from depressing people all day long, to making them laugh. And that's, that's kind of what I did. I always did want to be I majored in Journalism at Northwestern University, good journalism school. Originally, I always wanted to be a television reporter. That was as a professional career I was, I dabbled in comedy. Started when I was 16. That is the first time I ever got on stage at my school, my high school, and then at a comedy club. I was there one of the first comedy clubs in Chicago, a place called the comedy cottage. It was in the suburb of beautiful, beautiful suburb of Rosemont, Illinois, and they were one of the very, very first full time comedy clubs in the nation. And as a 16 year old kid, I actually got on stage and did five minutes here and five minutes there. And thought I was, I was hot stuff, but I never, ever thought I would do it for a living. I thought comedy would always be just a hobby. And I. Especially when I went to college, and I thought, okay, Northwestern is pretty good school, pretty expensive school. I should actually use my degree. And I did. I moved down to Florida, wrote for a newspaper called The Palm Beach post, which, don't let that title fool you. It's Palm Beach was a very small segment of of the area that it was, that it served, but I did comedy on the side, and just because I moved down there, I didn't know anybody, so I hung out at comedy clubs just to have something to do. And little by little, comedy in the late 80s, it exploded. Exploded. There were suddenly clubs popping up everywhere, and you were starting to get to know guys that were doing these clubs and were starting to get recognition for just being comedians. And one of them opened up a very, very good Club opened up about 10 minutes from my apartment in West Palm Beach, and I hung out there and started to get more stage time, and eventually started to realize at the same time that I was getting better as a comedian, I was becoming more disillusioned as a journalist in terms of what my bosses wanted me to report on and the tone they wanted me to use. And I just decided that I would I would just never be able to live with myself if I didn't try it, if I didn't take the the plunge into comedy, and that's what I did in 1989 and I've been doing it ever since. And my career has gone in multiple directions, as I think it needs to. If you're going to be in show business and sustain a career in show business, you have to wear a lot of different hats, which I feel like I've done.   Michael Hingson ** 06:40 So tell me more about that. What does that mean exactly?   Greg Schwem ** 06:43 Well, I mean, I started out as a what you would pretty much if somebody said, If you heard somebody say, I'm a comedian, they would envision some guy that just went to comedy clubs all the time, and that's what I did. I was just a guy that traveled by car all over the Midwest and the Southeast primarily, and did comedy clubs, but I quickly realized that was kind of a going nowhere way to attack it, to do comedy unless you were incredibly lucky, because there were so many guys doing it and so many clubs, and I just didn't see a future in it, and I felt like I had to separate myself from the pack a little bit. And I was living in Chicago, which is where I'm from, and still, still exist. Still reside in Chicago, and I started to get involved with a company that did live trade show presentations. So if you've ever been on a trade show floor and you see people, they're mostly actors and actresses that wear a headset and deliver a spiel, a pitch, like every, every twice an hour, about some company, some new product, and so forth. And I did that, and I started to write material about what I was seeing on trade show floors and putting it into my stand up act, stuff about business, stuff about technology, because I was Hawking a lot of new computers and things like that. This was the mid 90s when technology was exploding, and I started to put this into my stand up act. And then I'd have people come up to me afterwards and say, hey, you know those jokes you did about computers and tech support, if you could come down to our office, you know, we're having a golf tournament, we're having a Christmas party, we would love to hear that material. And little by little, I started transitioning my act into doing shows for the corporate market. I hooked up with a corporate agent, or the corporate agent heard about me, and started to open a lot of doors for me in terms of working for very large corporations, and that's pretty much what I've been doing. I stopped working clubs, and I transitioned, instead of being a comedian, I became a corporate humor speaker. And that's what I do, primarily to this day, is to speak at business conferences. Just kind of get people to loosen up, get them to laugh about what they do all day without without making it sound like I'm belittling what they do. And also when I'm not doing that, I work about eight to 10 weeks a year on cruise ships, performing for cruise audiences. So that's a nice getaway.   Speaker 1 ** 09:18 It's interesting since I mentioned Don Rickles earlier, years ago, I saw an interview that he did with Donahue, and one of the things that Don Rickles said, and after he said it, I thought about it. He said, I really don't want to pick on anyone who's going to be offended by me picking on them. He said, I try to watch really carefully, so that if it looks like somebody's getting offended, I'll leave them alone, because that's not what this is all about. It isn't about abusing people. It's about trying to get people to have fun, and if somebody's offended, I don't want to to pick on them, and I've heard a number of albums and other things with him and just. Noticed that that was really true. He wouldn't pick on someone unless they could take it and had a lot of fun with it. And I thought that was absolutely interesting, because that certainly wasn't, of course, the rep that he had and no, but it was   Greg Schwem ** 10:16 true. It is, and it doesn't take long to see as a as a comedian, when you're looking at an audience member and you're talking to them, it, you can tell very quickly, Are they enjoying this? Are they enjoying being the center of attention? A lot of people are, or are they uncomfortable with it? Now, I don't know that going in. I mean, I you know, of course. And again, that's a very small portion of my show is to talk to the audience, but it is something particularly today. I think audiences want to be more involved. I think they enjoy you talk you. Some of these, the new comedians in their 20s and 30s and so forth. Them, some of them are doing nothing, but what they call crowd work. So they're just doing 45 minutes of talking to the audience, which can be good and can be rough too, because you're working without a net. But I'm happy to give an audience a little bit of that. But I also have a lot of stuff that I want to say too. I mean, I work very hard coming up with material and and refining it, and I want to talk about what's going on in my life, too. So I don't want the audience to be the entire show, right?   Speaker 1 ** 11:26 And and they shouldn't be, because it isn't about that. But at the same time, it is nice to involve them. I find that as a keynote and public speaker, I find that true as well, though, is that audiences do like to be involved. And I do some things right at the outset of most talks to involve people, and also in involving them. I want to get them to last so that I start to draw them in, because later, when I tell the September 11 story, which isn't really a humorous thing. Directly,   Greg Schwem ** 12:04 i know i Good luck. I'm spinning 911 to make it I don't think I've ever heard anybody say, by the way, I was trapped in a building. Stick with me. It's kind of cute. It's got a funny ending. And   Speaker 1 ** 12:20 that's right, and it is hard I can, I can say humorous things along the way in telling the story, but, sure, right, but, but clearly it's not a story that, in of itself, is humorous. But what I realized over the years, and it's really dawned on me in the last four or five years is we now have a whole generation of people who have absolutely no memory of September 11 because they were children or they weren't even born yet. And I believe that my job is to not only talk about it, but literally to draw them into the building and have them walk down the stairs with me, and I have to be descriptive in a very positive way, so that they really are part of what's going on. And the reality is that I do hear people or people come up and say, we were with you when you were going down the stairs. And I think that's my job, because the reality is that we've got to get people to understand there are lessons to be learned from September 11, right? And the only real way to do that is to attract the audience and bring them in. And I think probably mostly, I'm in a better position to do that than most people, because I'm kind of a curious soul, being blind and all that, but it allows me to to draw them in and and it's fun to do that, actually. And I, and   Greg Schwem ** 13:52 I gotta believe, I mean, obviously I wasn't there, Michael, but I gotta believe there were moments of humor in people, a bunch of people going down the stairs. Sure, me, you put people get it's like, it's like when a bunch of people are in an elevator together, you know, I mean, there's I, when I look around and I try to find something humorous in a crowded and it's probably the same thing now, obviously it, you know, you got out in time. But I and, you know, don't that's the hotel phone, which I just hung up so but I think that I can totally see where you're going from, where, if you're if you're talking to people who have no recollection of this, have no memory where you're basically educating them on the whole event. I think you then you have the opportunity to tell the story in whatever way you see fit. And I think that however you choose to do it is there's no wrong way to do it, I guess is what I'm trying to get at.   Speaker 1 ** 14:55 Well, yeah, I think the wrong way is to be two. Graphic and morbid and morbid, but one of the things that I talk about, for example, is that a colleague of mine who was with me, David Frank, at about the 50th floor, suddenly said, Mike, we're going to die. We're not going to make it out of here. And as as I tell the audience, typically, I as as you heard my introduction at the beginning, I have a secondary teaching credential. And one of the things that you probably don't know about teachers is that there's a secret course that every teacher takes called Voice 101, how to yell at students and and so what I tell people is that when David said that, I just said in my best teacher voice, stop it, David, if Roselle and I can go down these stairs, so can you. And he told me later that that brought him out of his funk, and he ended up walking a floor below me and shouting up to me everything he saw. And it was just mainly, everything is clear, like I'm on floor 48 he's on 47/47 floor. Everything is good here, and what I have done for the past several years in telling that part of the story is to say David, in reality, probably did more to keep people calm and focused as we went down the stairs than anyone else, because anyone within the sound of his voice heard someone who was focused and sounded okay. You know, hey, I'm on the 44th floor. This is where the Port Authority cafeteria is not stopping. And it it helps people understand that we all had to do what we could to keep everyone from not panicking. And it almost happened a few times that people did, but we worked at it. But the i The idea is that it helps draw people in, and I think that's so important to do for my particular story is to draw them in and have them walk down the stairs with me, which is what I do, absolutely, yeah, yeah. Now I'm curious about something that keeps coming up. I hear it every so often, public speaker, Speaker experts and people who are supposedly the great gurus of public speaking say you shouldn't really start out with a joke. And I've heard that so often, and I'm going give me a break. Well, I think, I think it depends, yeah, I think   Greg Schwem ** 17:33 there's two schools of thought to that. I think if you're going to start out with a joke, it better be a really good one, or something that you either has been battle tested, because if it doesn't work now, you, you know, if you're hoping for a big laugh, now you're saying, Well, you're a comedian, what do you do? You know, I mean, I, I even, I just sort of work my way into it a little bit. Yeah, and I'm a comedian, so, and, you know, it's funny, Michael, I will get, I will get. I've had CEOs before say to me, Hey, you know, I've got to give this presentation next week. Give me a joke I can tell to everybody. And I always decline. I always it's like, I don't need that kind of pressure. And it's like, I can, I can, I can tell you a funny joke, but,   Michael Hingson ** 18:22 but you telling the   Greg Schwem ** 18:23 work? Yeah, deliver it. You know, I can't deliver it for you. Yeah? And I think that's what I also, you know, on that note, I've never been a big fan of Stand Up Comedy classes, and you see them all popping up all over the place. Now, a lot of comedy clubs will have them, and usually the you take the class, and the carrot at the end is you get to do five minutes at a comedy club right now, if that is your goal, if you're somebody who always like, Gosh, I wonder what it would like be like to stand up on stage and and be a comedian for five minutes. That's something I really like to try. By all means, take the class, all right. But if you think that you're going to take this class and you're going to emerge a much funnier person, like all of a sudden you you weren't funny, but now you are, don't take the class, yeah? And I think, sadly, I think that a lot of people sign up for these classes thinking the latter, thinking that they will all of a sudden become, you know, a comedian. And it doesn't work that way. I'm sorry you cannot teach unfunny people to be funny. Yeah, some of us have the gift of it, and some of us don't. Some of us are really good with our hands, and just know how to build stuff and how to look at things and say, I can do that. And some of us, myself included, definitely do not. You know, I think you can teach people to be more comfortable, more comfortable in front of an audience and. Correct. I think that is definitely a teachable thing, but I don't think that you can teach people to be funnier   Speaker 1 ** 20:10 and funnier, and I agree with that. I tend to be amazed when I keep hearing that one of the top fears in our world is getting up in front of an audience and talking with them, because people really don't understand that audiences, whatever you're doing, want you to succeed, and they're not against you, but we have just conditioned ourselves collectively that speaking is something to be afraid of?   Greg Schwem ** 20:41 Yes, I think, though it's, I'm sure, that fear, though, of getting up in front of people has only probably been exacerbated and been made more intense because now everybody in the audience has a cell phone and to and to be looking out at people and to see them on their phones. Yeah, you're and yet, you prepped all day long. You've been nervous. You've been you probably didn't sleep the night before. If you're one of these people who are afraid of speaking in public, yeah, and then to see people on their phones. You know, it used to bother me. It doesn't anymore, because it's just the society we live in. I just, I wish, I wish people could put their phones down and just enjoy laughing for 45 minutes. But unfortunately, our society can't do that anymore, so I just hope that I can get most of them to stop looking at it.   Speaker 1 ** 21:32 I don't make any comments about it at the beginning, but I have, on a number of occasions, been delivering a speech, and I hear a cell phone ring, and I'll stop and go, Hello. And I don't know for sure what the person with the cell phone does, but by the same token, you know they really shouldn't be on their phone and and it works out, okay, nobody's ever complained about it. And when I just say hello, or I'll go Hello, you don't say, you know, and things like that, but, but I don't, I don't prolong it. I'll just go back to what I was talking about. But I remember, when I lived in New Jersey, Sandy Duncan was Peter Pan in New York. One night she was flying over the audience, and there was somebody on his cell phone, and she happened to be going near him, and she just kicked the phone out of his hand. And I think that's one of the things that started Broadway in saying, if you have a cell phone, turn it off. And those are the announcements that you hear at the beginning of any Broadway performance today.   Greg Schwem ** 22:39 Unfortunately, people don't abide by that. I know you're still hearing cell phones go off, yeah, you know, in Broadway productions at the opera or wherever, so people just can't and there you go. There that just shows you're fighting a losing battle.   Speaker 1 ** 22:53 Yeah, it's just one of those things, and you got to cope with it.   Greg Schwem ** 22:58 What on that note, though, there was, I will say, if I can interrupt real quick, there was one show I did where nobody had their phone. It was a few years ago. I spoke at the CIA. I spoke for some employees of the CIA. And this might, this might freak people out, because you think, how is it that America's covert intelligence agency, you think they would be on their phones all the time. No, if you work there, you cannot have your phone on you. And so I had an audience of about 300 people who I had their total attention because there was no other way to they had no choice but to listen to me, and it was wonderful. It was just a great show, and I it was just so refreshing. Yeah,   Speaker 1 ** 23:52 and mostly I don't hear cell phones, but they do come up from time to time. And if they do, then you know it happens. Now my one of my favorite stories is I once spoke in Maryland at the Department of Defense, which anybody who knows anything knows that's the National Security Agency, but they call it the Department of Defense, as if we don't know. And my favorite story is that I had, at the time, a micro cassette recorder, and it died that morning before I traveled to Fort Meade, and I forgot to just throw it away, and it was in my briefcase. So I got to the fort, they searched, apparently, didn't find it, but on the way out, someone found it. They had to get a bird Colonel to come to decide what to do with it. I said, throw it away. And they said, No, we can't do that. It's yours. And they they decided it didn't work, and they let me take it and I threw it away. But it was so, so funny to to be at the fort and see everybody running around crazy. See, what do we do with this micro cassette recorder? This guy's been here for an hour. Yeah. So it's it. You know, all sorts of things happen. What do you think about you know, there's a lot of discussion about comedians who use a lot of foul language in their shows, and then there are those who don't, and people seem to like the shock value of that.   Greg Schwem ** 25:25 Yeah, I'm very old school in that. I guess my short answer is, No, I've never, ever been one of those comedians. Ever I do a clean show, I actually learned my lesson very early on. I think I think that I think comedians tend to swear because when they first start out, out of nerves, because I will tell you that profanity does get laughter. And I've always said, if you want to, if you want to experiment on that, have a comedian write a joke, and let's say he's got two shows that night. Let's say he's got an eight o'clock show and a 10 o'clock show. So let's say he does the joke in the eight o'clock and it's, you know, the cadence is bumper, bump up, bump up, bump up, punch line. Okay, now let's and let's see how that plays. Now let's now he does the 10 o'clock show and it's bumper, bump up, bump up F and Okay, yeah, I pretty much guarantee you the 10 o'clock show will get a bigger laugh. Okay? Because he's sort of, it's like the audience is programmed like, oh, okay, we're supposed to laugh at that now. And I think a lot of comedians think, Aha, I have just discovered how to be successful as a comedian. I will just insert the F word in front of every punch line, and you can kind of tell what comedians do that and what comedians I mean. I am fine with foul language, but have some jokes in there too. Don't make them. Don't make the foul word, the joke, the joke, right? And I can say another thing nobody has ever said to me, I cannot hire you because you're too clean. I've never gotten that. And all the years I've been doing this, and I know there's lots of comedians who who do work blue, who have said, you know, who have been turned down for that very reason. So I believe, if you're a comedian, the only way to get better is to work any place that will have you. Yeah, and you can't, so you might as well work clean so you can work any place that will have you, as opposed to being turned away.   Speaker 1 ** 27:30 Well, and I, and I know what, what happened to him and all that, but at the same time, I grew up listening to Bill Cosby and the fact that he was always clean. And, yeah, I understand everything that happened, but you can't deny and you can't forget so many years of humor and all the things that that he brought to the world, and the joy he brought to the world in so many ways.   Greg Schwem ** 27:57 Oh, yeah, no, I agree. I agree. And he Yeah, he worked everywhere. Jay Leno is another one. I mean, Jay Leno is kind of on the same wavelength as me, as far as don't let the profanity become the joke. You know, Eddie Murphy was, you know, was very foul. Richard Pryor, extremely foul. I but they also, prior, especially, had very intelligent material. I mean, you can tell and then if you want to insert your F bombs and so forth, that's fine, but at least show me that you're trying. At least show me that you came in with material in addition to the   Speaker 1 ** 28:36 foul language. The only thing I really have to say about all that is it? Jay Leno should just stay away from cars, but that's another story.   Greg Schwem ** 28:43 Oh, yeah, it's starting to   Greg Schwem ** 28:47 look that way. Yeah, it   Michael Hingson ** 28:49 was. It was fun for a while, Jay, but yeah, there's just two. It's like, Harrison Ford and plains. Yeah, same concept. At some point you're like, this isn't working out. Now I submit that living here in Victorville and just being out on the streets and being driven around and all that, I am firmly convinced, given the way most people drive here, that the bigoted DMV should let me have a license, because I am sure I can drive as well as most of the clowns around here. Yeah, so when they drive, I have no doubt. Oh, gosh. Well, you know, you switched from being a TV journalist and so on to to comedy. Was it a hard choice? Was it really difficult to do, or did it just seem like this is the time and this is the right thing to do. I was   Greg Schwem ** 29:41 both, you know, it was hard, because I really did enjoy my job and I liked, I liked being a TV news reporter. I liked, I liked a job that was different every day once you got in there, because you didn't know what they were going to send you out to do. Yes, you had. To get up and go to work every day and so forth. So there's a little bit of, you know, there's a little bit of the mundane, just like there is in any job, but once you were there, I liked, just never known what the day would bring, right? And and I, I think if I'd stayed with it, I think I think I could have gone pretty far, particularly now, because the now it's more people on TV are becoming more entertainers news people are becoming, yeah, they are. A lot of would be, want to be comedians and so forth. And I don't particularly think that's appropriate, but I agree. But so it was hard to leave, but it gets back to what I said earlier. At some point, you got to say, I was seeing comedians making money, and I was thinking, gosh, you know, if they're making money at this I I'm not hilarious, but I know I'm funnier than that guy. Yeah, I'm funnier than her, so why not? And I was young, and I was single, and I thought, if I if I don't try it now, I never will. And, and I'll bet there's just some hilarious people out there, yeah, who who didn't ever, who just were afraid   Michael Hingson ** 31:14 to take that chance, and they wouldn't take the leap, yeah,   Greg Schwem ** 31:16 right. And now they're probably kicking themselves, and I'm sure maybe they're very successful at what they do, but they're always going to say, what if, if I only done this? I don't ever, I don't, ever, I never, ever wanted to say that. Yeah,   Speaker 1 ** 31:31 well, and there's, there's something to be said for being brave and stepping out and doing something that you don't expect, or that you didn't expect, or that you weren't sure how it was going to go, but if you don't try, then you're never going to know just how, how much you could really accomplish and how much you can really do. And I think that the creative people, whatever they're being creative about, are the people who do step out and are willing to take a chance.   Greg Schwem ** 31:59 Yeah, yeah. And I told my kids that too. You know, it's just like, if it's something that you're passionate about, do it. Just try it. If it doesn't work out, then at least you can say I tried   Speaker 1 ** 32:09 it and and if it doesn't work out, then you can decide, what do I need to do to figure out why it didn't work out, or is it just not me? I want   Greg Schwem ** 32:18 to keep going? Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.   Speaker 1 ** 32:21 So what is the difference between being a nightclub comedian and a corporate comedian? Because they are somewhat different. I think I know the answer. But what would you say that the differences between them? I think   Greg Schwem ** 32:33 the biggest thing is the audiences. I think when you when you are a nightclub comedian, you are working in front of people who are there to be entertained. Yeah, they, they paid money for that. That's what they're expecting. They, they, at some point during the day, they said, Hey, let's, let's go laugh tonight. That's what we really want to do when you're working in front of a corporate audiences. That's not necessarily the case. They are there. I primarily do business conferences and, you know, association meetings and so forth. And I'm just one cog in the wheel of a whole day's worth of meetings are, for the most part, very dry and boring, maybe certainly necessary educational. They're learning how to do their job better or something. And then you have a guy like me come in, and people aren't always ready to laugh, yeah, despite the fact that they probably need to, but they just they're not always in that mindset. And also the time of day. I mean, I do a lot of shows at nine in the morning. I do shows after lunch, right before lunch. I actually do very few shows in the evening, believe it or not. And so then you you have to, you kind of have to, in the while you're doing your act or your presentation or your speech, as I call it, you kind of have to let them know that it is okay. What you're doing is okay, and they should be okay with laughing. They shouldn't be looking around the whole time wondering if other people are laughing. You know, can I, can I? Can I tell you a quick story about how I drive that point home. Why not? Yeah, it's, I'll condense it into like five minutes. I mentioned that I worked on that I work on cruise ships occasionally, and I one night I was performing, and it was the first night of the cruise. And if anybody's ever been on a cruise, note, the first night, first night entertainers don't like the first night because people are tired. You know, they're they're a little edgy because they've been traveling all day. They're they're confused because they're not really sure where they're going on a ship. And the ones that have got it figured out usually over serve themselves because they're on vacation. So you put all that, so I'm doing my show on the first. Night, and it's going very well. And about five, six minutes in, I do a joke. Everybody laughs. Everybody shuts up. And from the back of the room in total darkness, I hear hat just like that. And I'm like, All right, you know, probably over served. So the rule of comedy is that everybody gets like. I was like, I'll let it go once, yeah. So I just kind of looked off in that direction, didn't say anything. Kept going with my active going with my act. About 10 minutes later, same thing happens. I tell a joke. Everybody laughs. Everybody shuts up. Hat now I'm like, Okay, I have got to, I've got to address the elephant in the room. So I think I just made some comment, like, you know, I didn't know Roseanne Barr was on this cruise, you know, because that was like the sound of the Yeah. Okay, everybody laugh. Nothing happened about five minutes later. It happens a third time. And now I'm just like, this is gonna stop. I'm going to put a stop to this. And I just fired off. I can't remember, like, three just like, hey man, you know you're you're just a little behind everybody else in this show and probably in life too, that, you know, things like that, and it never happened again. So I'm like, okay, mission accomplished on my part. Comedians love it when we can shut up somebody like that. Anyway. Show's over, I am out doing a meet and greet. Some guy comes up to me and he goes, hey, hey, you know that kid you were making fun of is mentally handicapped. And now, of course, I don't know this, but out of the corner of my eye, I see from the other exit a man pushing a son, his son in a wheelchair out of the showroom. And I'm just like, Oh, what have I done? And yeah. And of course, when you're on a cruise, you're you're on a cruise. When you're a cruise ship entertainer, you have to live with your audience. So I couldn't hide. I spent like the next three days, and it seemed like wherever I was, the man and his son in the wheelchair were nearby. And finally, on the fourth day, I think was, I was waiting for an elevator. Again, 3500 people on this ship, okay, I'm waiting for an elevator. The elevator door opens. Guess who are the only two people the elevator, the man and his son. And I can't really say I'll wait for the next one. So I get on, and I said to this the father, I said, I just want you to know I had no idea. You know, I'm so sorry. I can't see back there, this kind of thing. And the dad looks at me. He puts his hand up to stop me, and he points to me, and he goes, I thought you were hysterical. And it was, not only was it relief, but it kind of, it's sort of a lesson that if you think something is funny, you should laugh at it. Yeah. And I think sometimes in corporate America, my point in this. I think sometimes when you do these corporate shows, I think that audience members forget that. I think very busy looking around to see if their immediate boss thinks it's funny, and eventually everybody's looking at the CEO to see if they're like, you know, I think if you're doing it that way, if that's the way you're you're approaching humor. You're doing yourself a disservice, if right, stopping yourself from laughing at something that you think is funny.   Speaker 1 ** 38:09 I do think that that all too often the problem with meetings is that we as a as a country, we in corporations, don't do meetings, right anyway, for example, early on, I heard someone at a convention of the National Federation of the Blind say he was the new executive director of the American Foundation for the Blind, and he said, I have instituted a policy, no Braille, no meetings. And what that was all about was to say, if you're going to have a meeting, you need to make sure that all the documentation is accessible to those who aren't going to read the print. I take it further and say you shouldn't be giving out documentation during the meeting. And you can use the excuse, well, I got to get the latest numbers and all that. And my point is, you shouldn't be giving out documentation at a meeting, because the meeting is for people to communicate and interact with each other. And if you're giving out papers and so on, what are people going to do? They're going to read that, and they're not going to listen to the speakers. They're not going to listen to the other people. And we do so many things like that, we've gotten into a habit of doing things that become so predictable, but also make meetings very boring, because who wants to look at the papers where you can be listening to people who have a lot more constructive and interesting things to say anyway?   Greg Schwem ** 39:36 Yeah, yeah. I think, I think COVID definitely changed, some for the some for the better and some for the worse. I think that a lot of things that were done at meetings COVID and made us realize a lot of that stuff could be done virtually, that you didn't have to just have everybody sit and listen to people over and over and over again.   Speaker 1 ** 39:58 But unless you're Donald Trump. Up. Yeah, that's another story.   Greg Schwem ** 40:02 Yes, exactly another podcast episode. But, yeah, I do think also that. I think COVID changed audiences. I think, you know, we talked a little bit earlier about crowd work, right, and audiences wanting to be more involved. I think COVID precipitated that, because, if you think about it, Michael, for two and a half years during COVID, our sole source of entertainment was our phone, right? Which meant that we were in charge of the entertainment experience. You don't like something, swipe left, scroll down, scroll, scroll, scroll, find something else. You know, that kind of thing. I'm not I'm not entertained in the next four or five seconds. So I'm going to do this. And I think when live entertainment returned, audiences kind of had to be retrained a little bit, where they had to learn to sit and listen and wait for the entertainment to come to them. And granted, it might not happen immediately. It might not happen in the first five seconds, but you have to just give give people like me a chance. It will come to you. It will happen, but it might not be on your timetable,   Speaker 1 ** 41:13 right? Well, and I think that is all too true for me. I didn't find didn't find COVID to be a great inconvenience, because I don't look at the screen anyway, right? So in a sense, for me, COVID wasn't that much of a change, other than not being in an office or not being physically at a meeting, and so I was listening to the meeting on the computer, and that has its nuances. Like you don't necessarily get the same information about how everyone around you is reacting, but, but it didn't bother me, I think, nearly as much as it did everyone else who has to look at everyone. Of course, I have no problems picking on all those people as well, because what I point out is that that disabilities has to be redefined, because every one of you guys has your own disability. You're light dependent, and you don't do well when there's dark, when, when the dark shows up and and we now have an environment where Thomas Edison invented the electric light bulb, and we've spent the last 147 years doing everything we can to make sure that light is pretty ubiquitous, but it doesn't change a thing when suddenly the power goes out and you don't have immediate access to light. So that's as much a disability as us light, independent people who don't   Greg Schwem ** 42:36 care about that, right? Right? I hear, I agree, but it is but   Speaker 1 ** 42:41 it is interesting and and it is also important that we all understand each other and are willing to tolerate the fact that there are differences in people, and we need to recognize that with whatever we're doing.   42:53 Yeah, I agree.   Speaker 1 ** 42:57 What do you think about so today, we have obviously a really fractured environment and fractured country, and everyone's got their own opinions, and nobody wants to talk about anything, especially politics wise. How do you think that's all affecting comedy and what you get to do and what other people are doing?   Greg Schwem ** 43:18 Well, I think Pete, I think there's, there's multiple answers to that question too. I think, I think it makes people nervous, wondering what the minute a comedian on stage brings up politics, the minute he starts talking about a politician, whether it's our president, whether it's somebody else, you can sense a tension in the room a little bit, and it's, it's, I mean, it's funny. I, one of my best friends in comedy, got to open for another comedian at Carnegie Hall a couple of years ago, and I went to see him, and I'm sitting way up in the top, and he is just crushing it. And then at one point he he brought up, he decided to do an impression of Mitch McConnell, which he does very well. However, the minute he said, Mitch McConnell, I you could just sense this is Carnegie freaking Hall, and after the show, you know, he and I always like to dissect each other's shows. That's what comedians do. And I just said to him, I go. Why did you decide to insert Mitch McConnell in there? And I, and I didn't say it like, you moron, that was stupid, yeah, but I was genuinely curious. And he just goes, well, I just really like doing that bit, and I like doing that voice and so forth, but, and it's not like the show crashed and burned afterwards. No, he did the joke, and then he got out of it, and he went on to other stuff, and it was fine, but I think that people are just so on their guard now, yeah, and, and that's why, you know, you know Jay Leno always said he was an equal opportunity offender. I think you will do better with politics if you really want. Insert politics into your act. I think he would be better making fun of both sides. Yeah, it's true. Yeah. And I think too often comedians now use the the stage as kind of a Bully, bully pulpit, like I have microphone and you don't. I am now going to give you my take on Donald Trump or the Democrats or whatever, and I've always said, talk about anything you want on stage, but just remember, you're at a comedy club. People came to laugh. So is there a joke in here? Yeah, or are you just ranting because you gotta be careful. You have to get this off your chest, and your way is right. It's, it's, you know, I hate to say it, but that's, that's why podcast, no offense, Michael, yours, is not like this. But I think one of the reasons podcasters have gotten so popular is a lot of people, just a lot of podcast hosts see a podcast is a chance to just rant about whatever's on their mind. And it's amazing to me how many podcast hosts that are hosted by comedians have a second guy have a sidekick to basically laugh and agree with whatever that person says. I think Joe Rogan is a classic example, and he's one of the most popular ones. But, and I don't quite understand that, because you know, if you're a comedian, you you made the choice to work solo, right? So why do you need somebody else with you?   Speaker 1 ** 46:33 I'm I'm fairly close to Leno. My remark is a little bit different. I'm not so much an equal opportunity offender as I am an equal opportunity abuser. I'll pick on both sides if politics comes into it at all, and it's and it's fun, and I remember when George W Bush was leaving the White House, Letterman said, Now we're not going to have anybody to joke about anymore. And everyone loved it. But still, I recognize that in the world today, people don't want to hear anything else. Don't confuse me with the facts or any of that, and it's so unfortunate, but it is the way it is, and so it's wiser to stay away from a lot of that, unless you can really break through the barrier,   Greg Schwem ** 47:21 I think so. And I also think that people, one thing you have to remember, I think, is when people come to a comedy show, they are coming to be entertained. Yeah, they are coming to kind of escape from the gloom and doom that unfortunately permeates our world right now. You know? I mean, I've always said that if you, if you walked up to a comedy club on a Saturday night, and let's say there were 50 people waiting outside, waiting to get in, and you asked all 50 of them, what do you hope happens tonight? Or or, Why are you here? All right, I think from all 50 you would get I would just like to laugh, yeah, I don't think one of them is going to say, you know, I really hope that my opinions on what's happening in the Middle East get challenged right now, but he's a comedian. No one is going to say that. No, no. It's like, I hope I get into it with the comedian on stage, because he thinks this way about a woman's right to choose, and I think the other way. And I really, really hope that he and I will get into an argument about to the middle of the   Speaker 1 ** 48:37 show. Yeah, yeah. That's not why people come?   Greg Schwem ** 48:40 No, it's not. And I, unfortunately, I think again, I think that there's a lot of comedians that don't understand that. Yeah, again, talk about whatever you want on stage, but just remember that your your surroundings, you if you build yourself as a comedian,   48:56 make it funny. Yeah, be funny.   Speaker 1 ** 49:00 Well, and nowadays, especially for for you, for me and so on, we're we're growing older and and I think you point out audiences are getting younger. How do you deal with that?   Greg Schwem ** 49:12 Well, what I try to do is I a couple of things. I try to talk as much as I can about topics that are relevant to a younger generation. Ai being one, I, one of the things I do in my my show is I say, oh, you know, I I really wasn't sure how to start off. And when you're confused these days, you you turn to answer your questions. You turn to chat GPT, and I've actually written, you know, said to chat GPT, you know, I'm doing a show tonight for a group of construction workers who work in the Midwest. It's a $350 million company, and it says, try to be very specific. Give me a funny opening line. And of course, chat GPT always comes up with some. Something kind of stupid, which I then relate to the audience, and they love that, you know, they love that concept. So I think there's, obviously, there's a lot of material that you can do on generational differences, but I, I will say I am very, very aware that my audience is, for the most part, younger than me now, unless I want to spend the rest of my career doing you know, over 55 communities, not that they're not great laughers, but I also think there's a real challenge in being older than your audience and still being able to make them laugh. But I think you have to remember, like you said, there's there's people now that don't remember 911 that have no concept of it, yeah, so don't be doing references from, say, the 1980s or the early 1990s and then come off stage and go, Man, nobody that didn't hit at all. No one, no one. They're stupid. They don't get it. Well, no, they, they, it sounds they don't get it. It's just that they weren't around. They weren't around, right? So that's on you.   Speaker 1 ** 51:01 One of the things that you know people ask me is if I will do virtual events, and I'll do virtual events, but I also tell people, the reason I prefer to do in person events is that I can sense what the audience is doing, how they're reacting and what they feel. If I'm in a room speaking to people, and I don't have that same sense if I'm doing something virtually, agreed same way. Now for me, at the same time, I've been doing this now for 23 years, so I have a pretty good idea in general, how to interact with an audience, to draw them in, even in a virtual environment, but I still tend to be a little bit more careful about it, and it's just kind of the way it is, you know, and you and you learn to deal with it well for you, have you ever had writer's block, and how did you deal with it?   Greg Schwem ** 51:57 Yes, I have had writer's block. I don't I can't think of a single comedian who's never had writer's block, and if they say they haven't, I think they're lying when I have writer's block, the best way for me to deal with this and just so you know, I'm not the kind of comedian that can go that can sit down and write jokes. I can write stories. I've written three books, but I can't sit down and just be funny for an hour all by myself. I need interaction. I need communication. And I think when I have writer's block, I tend to go out and try and meet strangers and can engage them in conversation and find out what's going on with them. I mean, you mentioned about dealing with the younger audience. I am a big believer right now in talking to people who are half my age. I like doing that in social settings, because I just, I'm curious. I'm curious as to how they think. I'm curious as to, you know, how they spend money, how they save money, how what their hopes and dreams are for the future, what that kind of thing, and that's the kind of stuff that then I'll take back and try and write material about. And I think that, I think it's fun for me, and it's really fun to meet somebody who I'll give you a great example just last night. Last night, I was I there's a there's a bar that I have that's about 10 a stone's throw from my condo, and I love to stop in there and and every now and then, sometimes I'll sit there and I won't meet anybody, and sometimes different. So there was a guy, I'd say he's probably in his early 30s, sitting too over, and he was reading, which I find intriguing, that people come to a bar and read, yeah, people do it, I mean. And I just said to him, I go, and he was getting ready to pay his bill, and I just said, if you don't mind me asking, What are you reading? And he's like, Oh, it's by Ezra Klein. And I go, you know, I've listened to Ezra Klein before. And he goes, Yeah, you know? He says, I'm a big fan. And debt to debt to dad. Next thing, you know, we're just, we're just riffing back and forth. And I ended up staying. He put it this way, Michael, it took him a very long time to pay his bill because we had a conversation, and it was just such a pleasure to to people like that, and I think that, and it's a hard thing. It's a hard thing for me to do, because I think people are on their guard, a little bit like, why is this guy who's twice my age talking to me at a bar? That's that seems a little weird. And I would get that. I can see that. But as I mentioned in my latest book, I don't mean because I don't a whole chapter to this, and I I say in the book, I don't mean you any harm. I'm not trying to hit on you, or I'm not creepy old guy at the bar. I am genuinely interested in your story. And. In your life, and and I just, I want to be the least interesting guy in the room, and that's kind of how I go about my writing, too. Is just you, you drive the story. And even though I'm the comedian, I'll just fill in the gaps and make them funny.   Speaker 1 ** 55:15 Well, I know that I have often been invited to speak at places, and I wondered, What am I going to say to this particular audience? How am I going to deal with them? They're they're different than what I'm used to. What I found, I guess you could call that writer's block, but what I found is, if I can go early and interact with them, even if I'm the very first speaker, if I can interact with them beforehand, or if there are other people speaking before me, invariably, I will hear things that will allow me to be able to move on and give a relevant presentation specifically to that group, which is what it's really all about. And so I'm with you, and I appreciate it, and it's good to get to the point where you don't worry about the block, but rather you look at ways to move forward and interact with people and make it fun, right,   Greg Schwem ** 56:13 right? And I do think people, I think COVID, took that away from us a little bit, yeah, obviously, but I but, and I do think people missed that. I think that people, once you get them talking, are more inclined to not think that you're you have ulterior motives. I think people do enjoy putting their phones down a little bit, but it's, it's kind of a two way street when I, when I do meet people, if it's if it's only me asking the questions, eventually I'm going to get tired of that. Yeah, I think there's a, there has to be a reciprocity thing a little bit. And one thing I find is, is with the Gen Z's and maybe millennials. They're not, they're not as good at that as I think they could be. They're more they're they're happy to talk about themselves, but they're not really good at saying so what do you do for a living? Or what you know, tell me about you. And I mean, that's how you learn about other people. Yeah,   Speaker 1 ** 57:19 tell me about your your latest book, Turning gut punches into punchlines. That's a interesting title, yeah, well, the more   Greg Schwem ** 57:26 interesting is the subtitle. So it's turning gut punches into punch punch lines, A Comedian's journey through cancer, divorce and other hilarious stuff.   Speaker 1 ** 57:35 No, like you haven't done anything in the world. Okay, right? So   Greg Schwem ** 57:38 other than that, how was the play, Mrs. Lincoln. Yeah, exactly. See, now you get that reference. I don't know if I could use that on stage, but anyway, depend on your audience. But yeah, they're like, What's he talking   Speaker 1 ** 57:50 who's Lincoln? And I've been to Ford theater too, so that's okay, yes, as have I. So it was much later than, than, well, than Lincoln, but that's okay.   Greg Schwem ** 57:58 You're not that old, right? No. Well, okay, so as the title, as the title implies, I did have sort of a double, double gut punch, it just in the last two years. So I, I got divorced late in life, after 29 years of marriage. And while that was going on, I got a colon cancer diagnosis and and at this end, I was dealing with all this while also continuing work as a humor speaker, okay, as a comedian. And I just decided I got it. First of all, I got a very clean bill of health. I'm cancer free. I am finally divorced so and I, I started to think, I wonder if there's some humor in this. I I would, I would, you know, Michael, I've been on stage for like, 25 years telling people that, you know, you can find something funny to laugh at. You can find humor in any situation. It's kind of like what you're talking about all the people going down the stairs in the building in the world trade center. All right, if you look around enough, you know, maybe there's something funny, and I've been preaching that, but I never really had to live that until now. And I thought, you know, maybe there's something here. Maybe I can this is my chance now to embrace new experiences. It was kind of when I got divorced, when you've been married half your life and all of a sudden you get divorced, everything's new to you, yeah, you're, you're, you're living alone, you you're doing things that your spouse did, oh, so many years. And you're having to do those, and you're having to make new friends, yeah, and all of that, I think, is very humorous. So the more I saw a book in there that I started writing before the cancer diagnosis, and I thought was there enough here? Just like, okay, a guy at 60 years old gets divorced now what's going to happen to him? The diagnosis? Kind. Made it just added another wrinkle to the book, because now I have to deal with this, and I have to find another subject to to make light of a little bit. So the book is not a memoir, you know, I don't start it off. And, you know, when I was seven, you know, I played, you know, I was, I went to this school night. It's not that. It's more just about reinvention and just seeing that you can be happy later in life, even though you have to kind of rewrite your your story a little   Speaker 1 ** 1:00:33 bit. And I would assume, and I would assume, you bring some of that into your ACT every so   Greg Schwem ** 1:00:38 very much. So yeah, I created a whole new speech called Turning gut punches into punchlines. And I some of the stuff that I, that I did, but, you know, there's a chapter in the book about, I about gig work, actually three chapters I, you know, I went to work for Amazon during the Christmas holiday rush, just scanning packages. I wanted to see what that was like. I drove for Uber I which I did for a while. And to tell you the truth, I miss it. I ended up selling my car, but I miss it because of the what we just talked about. It was a great way to communicate with people. It was a great way to talk to people, find out about them, be the least interesting person in the car, anyway. And there's a chapter about dating and online dating, which I had not had to do in 30 years. There's a lot of humor in that. I went to therapy. I'd never gone to therapy before. I wrote a chapter about that. So I think people really respond to this book, because they I think they see a lot of themselves in it. You know, lots of people have been divorced. There's lots of cancer survivors out there, and there's lots of people who just suddenly have hit a speed bump in their life, and they're not really sure how to deal with it, right? And my way, this book is just about deal with it through laughter. And I'm the perfect example.   Speaker 1 ** 1:01:56 I hear you, Oh, I I know, and I've been through the same sort of thing as you not a divorce, but my wife and I were married for 40 years, and she passed away in November of 2022 after 40 years of marriage. And as I tell people, as I tell people, I got to be really careful, because she's monitoring me from somewhere, and if I misbehave, I'm going to hear about it, so I got to be a good kid, and I don't even chase the women so. But I also point out that none of them have been chasing me either, so I guess I just do what we got to do. But the reality is, I think there are always ways to find some sort of a connection with other people, and then, of course, that's what what you do. It's all about creating a connection, creating a relationship, even if it's only for a couple of hours or an hour or 45 minutes, but, but you do it, which is what it's all about?   Greg Schwem ** 1:02:49 Yeah, exactly. And I think the funniest stuff is real life experience. Oh, absolutely, you know. And if people can see themselves in in what I've written, then I've done my job as a writer.   Speaker 1 ** 1:03:03 So do you have any plans to retire?   Greg Schwem ** 1:03:06 Never. I mean, good for you retire from what   1:03:09 I know right, making fun of people   Greg Schwem ** 1:03:12 and making them laugh. I mean, I don't know what I would do with myself, and even if I there's always going to be I don't care how technology, technologically advanced our society gets. People will always want and need to laugh. Yeah, they're always going to want to do that. And if they're want, if they're wanting to do that, then I will find, I will find a way to get to them. And that's why I, as I said, That's why, like working on cruise ships has become, like a new, sort of a new avenue for me to make people laugh. And so, yeah, I don't I there's, there's no way. I don't know what else I would do with   Speaker 1 ** 1:03:53 myself, well and from my perspective, as long as I can inspire people, yes, I can make people think a little bit and feel better about themselves. I'm going to do it right. And, and, and I do. And I wrote a book during COVID that was published last August called Live like a guide dog. And it's all about helping people learn to control fear. And I use lessons I learned from eight guide dogs and my wife service dog to do that. My wife was in a wheelchair her whole life. Great marriage. She read, I pushed worked out well, but, but the but the but the bottom line is that dogs can teach us so many lessons, and there's so much that we can learn from them. So I'm grateful that I had the opportunity to create this book and and get it out there. And I think that again, as long as I can continue to inspire people, I'm going to do it. Because   Greg Schwem ** 1:04:47 why wouldn't you? Why wouldn't I exactly right? Yeah, yeah. So,   Speaker 1 ** 1:04:51 I mean, I think if I, if I stopped, I think my wife would beat up on me, so I gotta be nice exactly. She's monitoring from somewhere

Presidencies of the United States
Interview with Michael Giorgione, Inside Camp David

Presidencies of the United States

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2025 47:36


Year(s) Discussed: 1935-2025 Like all of us, presidents need a place where they can relax and unwind. Having served as its commanding officer under Presidents Bill Clinton and George W Bush, Michael Giorgione shares with us some of the history of the presidential retreat, Camp David, and what it takes behind the scenes to have it ready for the president, the first family, and their guests at a moment's notice. Links to more information about Michael and his book, Inside Camp David, can be found at https://www.presidenciespodcast.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bulletin
Evangelicals Abandon PEPFAR, Churches Endorse Politicians, and the ‘Big Beautiful Bill' Hurts the Poor

The Bulletin

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 46:00


This week, Mike, Russell, and Clarissa discuss evangelicals abandoning support for PEPFAR with Peter Wehner. Then, the IRS says churches can endorse political candidates. Is that okay? Finally, the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act' has officially passed. Ingrid Delgado of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul stops by to help us understand the implications for the vulnerable.    REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE: “Why Evangelicals Turned Their Back on PEPFAR”—The Atlantic This month's episode of Tuesday Night Live with Mike & Clarissa. GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN:  Take our survey for a chance to win a free sweatshirt.  Join the conversation at our Substack.  Find us on YouTube.  Rate and review the show in your podcast app of choice.   ABOUT THE GUESTS:   Peter Wehner is a contributing writer at The Atlantic and a senior fellow at the Trinity Forum. He was formerly a speechwriter for George W. Bush and a senior fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center. Wehner is a contributing opinion writer for The New York Times, and his work also appears in publications including The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and National Affairs. Ingrid Delgado is the national director of public policy and advocacy at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA, an organization that seeks to raise the profile of issues such as homelessness and protection for the most vulnerable. She previously worked for the US. Conference of Catholic Bishops as associate director of government relations and, before then, as a domestic policy advisor.  ABOUT THE BULLETIN:  The Bulletin is a twice-weekly politics and current events show from Christianity Today moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today's editor in chief) and Mike Cosper (director, CT Media). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more.    The Bulletin listeners get 25% off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more.    “The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today Producer: Clarissa Moll Associate Producer: Alexa Burke Editing and Mix: TJ Hester Music: Dan Phelps Executive Producers: Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper   Senior Producer: Matt Stevens Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Take as Directed
Joe Grogan: “The societal divisions that Covid opened were terrifying.”

Take as Directed

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 44:52


Joe Grogan, former senior official of the George W. Bush administration and the first Trump administration, operates an active consultancy, hosts a podcast, writes commentaries for USC Schaeffer Center, and is an active member of the CSIS Bipartisan Alliance for Global Health Security. Drug shortages remain a real problem, with the potential to scale and impose political costs. What to make of the Big Beautiful Bill? It might provoke a backlash. How to understand the rising vulnerability of the aging foundational programs—PEPFAR, Gavi, the Global Fund? And how to understand what happened during Covid-19? It was a “toxic brew.” We need to be “radically transparent.” 

The Back Room with Andy Ostroy
David Frum on Trump, Musk, MAGA, Tariffs, the GOP, and his Journey Through Loss and Grief Following Last Year's Death of his Daughter Miranda, 32

The Back Room with Andy Ostroy

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 68:21


David Frum is a staff writer at the Atlantic and host of “The David Frum show” podcast. He is the author of ten books, most recently TRUMPOCALYPSE: Restoring American Democracy. David has been active in Republican politics since the first Reagan campaign of 1980. From 2014 through 2017 he served as chairman of the board of trustees of the leading UK center-right think tank, Policy Exchange. In 2001-2002, he served as speechwriter and special assistant to President George W. Bush. This conversation has such deep personal meaning to me, as David and i talked not just about politics, but also about loss and grief and his emotional journey these past seventeen months as he and his family mourn the devastating loss of his daughter Miranda, 32. Got somethin' to say?! Email us at BackroomAndy@gmail.com Leave us a message: 845-307-7446 Twitter: @AndyOstroy Produced by Andy Ostroy, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff Design by Cricket Lengyel

Stand Up! with Pete Dominick
1394 Sam Youngman + News and Clips

Stand Up! with Pete Dominick

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 61:00


Stand Up is a daily podcast. I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 750 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous souls Check out StandUpwithPete.com to learn more Sam Youngman is a veteran political campaign reporter and former White House correspondent. Youngman covered the presidential campaigns of 2004, 2008 and 2012, countless U.S. House and Senate races, and the administrations of George W. Bush and Barack Obama while working for The Hill, Reuters and other news organizations. A native of Kentucky, Youngman has a BA in journalism from Western Kentucky University and now lives in Los Angeles. Today's Big Stuff is a Monday through Friday newsletter for progressive Americans who want to save their democracy while making fun of people like Donald Trump Jr. and Lauren Boebert who might actually be the same, really dumb person. . Today's Big Stuff (TBS) was founded in early 2019 by “Ready for Hillary” creator and Democratic strategist Adam Parkhomenko and former White House correspondent and veteran campaign reporter Sam Youngman. What started as a small clip service for six people, quickly expanded as thousands of stressed out Americans searched for a news source that tells it how it is — with lots of sick jokes and cuss words. In 2020, the more than 75,000 members of the Big Stuff community — also known as Sexy Patriots and Big Stufferinoes — mobilized along with 81 million other Americans to send Donald Trump crying back to Mar-a-Lago leaving a trail of urine along the way. And we're just getting started. If laughter is the best medicine, then TBS is like an injection of bleach right to the fucking face. Sign up and don't forget to share with your friends who share your twisted senses of humor and righteous outrage! Join us Monday and Thursday's at 8EST for our  Bi Weekly Happy Hour Hangout!  Pete on Blue Sky Pete on Threads Pete on Tik Tok Pete on YouTube  Pete on Twitter Pete On Instagram Pete Personal FB page Stand Up with Pete FB page All things Jon Carroll  Follow and Support Pete Coe Buy Ava's Art  Hire DJ Monzyk to build your website or help you with Marketing Gift a Subscription https://www.patreon.com/PeteDominick/gift

Badlands Media
The Book of Trump Chapter 22: The War in Afghanistan

Badlands Media

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 104:13 Transcription Available


In this powerful episode, Ghost is joined by CannCon to unravel the tangled history of America's longest war. The conversation begins with George W. Bush's televised announcement of Operation Enduring Freedom, then pivots into a deep exploration of how U.S. policies and covert funding shaped Afghanistan's fate. CannCon shares vivid, firsthand accounts from multiple deployments, from building the remote 7171 base to daily firefights and confronting the grim reality of poppy fields fueling the opioid crisis back home. The discussion examines how the CIA's Cold War strategies birthed the mujahideen and laid the groundwork for decades of conflict. Alongside personal reflections on brotherhood, trauma, and the sense of futility, the episode challenges official narratives, questioning whether the war's failures were incompetence or by design. Stories of bizarre moments, like discovering a massive IED in a bulldozer bucket and witnessing UFOs on patrol, punctuate the grim recollections. Packed with unflinching honesty, historical context, and hard-won perspective, this chapter is a sobering look at the cost of endless interventionism.

Ruthless
These Are the Most American Moments Ever: July 4th with Ruthless

Ruthless

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2025 60:00


This special 4th of July Progrum features the fellas reminiscing about their favorite American moments and traditions. They share personal anecdotes and iconic historical clips, from the Wright Brothers' first flight to the Miracle on Ice, discussing moments that embody American ingenuity, resilience, and patriotism.    Join the fellas as they count down the greatest moments on film, and watch their analysis of unforgettable scenes, like Trump's assassination attempt.    PLUS your comments and a fond farewell to the beloved Spaghetts. Good luck, Nick!   00:00 - Happy 4th of July & Patriotic Beginnings 08:00 - Iconic American Moments: NASCAR & Creed 12:15 - The Great "First in Flight" Debate 18:15 - Defining Moments: Miracle on Ice & Bin Laden 29:57 - Trump's "Fight, Fight, Fight" & American Resilience 36:00 - Iwo Jima, Moon Landing 45:30 - Your Comments from YouTube 54:30 - A Fond Farewell to Spaghetts   Our Sponsors: -Help Trump get his big, beautiful, bill. Go to https://protectprosperity.com/ -Find out the true power of America's oil and natural gas. Go to https://lightsonenergy.org/

The Argument
Why Trump's Blood-and-Guts Strategy Worked

The Argument

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 55:30


Happy Independence Day! We'll be back next week with a new episode, but today we're sharing the episode that started us on the path to “Interesting Times.” Ross Douthat talks to Reihan Salam, the president of the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research. Together they wrote the book “Grand New Party: How Republicans Can Win the Working Class and Save the American Dream.”They review their George W. Bush-era prescriptions for the Republican Party to reclaim the working-class vote and the ways they were right (and wrong) about building a new Republican majority.03:47 George W. Bush era12:06 Rise and fall of the Tea Party18:19 Trump's 2016 “blood and guts” message28:11 Trump's effect on the right and left35:48 Trump's first term economic agenda39:30 Elon Musk vs JD Vance46:50 Imagining an activist, conservative government(A full transcript of this episode is available on the Times website.)Thoughts? Email us at interestingtimes@nytimes.com. Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Garage Logic
Best of: Classic Late 90's Calls

Garage Logic

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 74:15


This best of Garage Logic features a call from then-Governor Jesse Ventura about a potential Presidential run, Joe checks in with the Lake Detective about the worst lake names in Minnesota and we foretold the coming of the Failed Academy while sailing on Spoon Lake. Plus a special call from future President George W. Bush after touring Sharing and Caring Hands.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Texas Standard
Adult education programs feel the squeeze as federal funds remain on hold

Texas Standard

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 50:45


Federal education funding is put on hold, leaving administrators scrambling to evaluate what programs may be affected and what comes next – not just for young students, but Texans in adult education programs as well.What could rural schools teach the rest of us about how to better get along? New research by the George W. […] The post Adult education programs feel the squeeze as federal funds remain on hold appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The White House 1600 Sessions
108. Road Trip to the Presidents Heads (Video)

The White House 1600 Sessions

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 31:42


There are many fun, wonderful opportunities to learn about White House history all across the country. Stewart McLaurin, president of the White House Historical Association, takes a road trip to the outskirts of Williamsburg, Virginia, to see what has become a social media hotspot: the Presidents Heads. Situated within a recycling facility on private property is a collection of 42 massive, decaying statues featuring the likenesses of U.S. presidents from George Washington through George W. Bush. Each statue is made of concrete and steel, averaging 15 feet in height, and weighing approximately 1.5 tons. They were rescued from a bankrupt outdoor museum called Presidents Park. When the park closed over a decade ago, the land was sold and the statues were set to be destroyed. Local businessman Howard Hankins was hired to do the job but he just couldn't bring himself to destroy the statues, so he transported them about 11 miles down the road to his property. Howard has allowed history buffs and photographers John Plashal and Fred Schneider to host organized tours several times a year where people can buy tickets to visit the statues (which cannot be seen from the road, so showing up unannounced is discouraged and considered trespassing). Stewart met John and Fred on one of their tours, and also encountered a few excited visitors. Come along for a ride and learn more about this remarkable piece of Americana.

The White House 1600 Sessions
108. Road Trip to the Presidents Heads

The White House 1600 Sessions

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 31:42


There are many fun, wonderful opportunities to learn about White House history all across the country. Stewart McLaurin, president of the White House Historical Association, takes a road trip to the outskirts of Williamsburg, Virginia, to see what has become a social media hotspot: the Presidents Heads. Situated within a recycling facility on private property is a collection of 42 massive, decaying statues featuring the likenesses of U.S. presidents from George Washington through George W. Bush. Each statue is made of concrete and steel, averaging 15 feet in height, and weighing approximately 1.5 tons. They were rescued from a bankrupt outdoor museum called Presidents Park. When the park closed over a decade ago, the land was sold and the statues were set to be destroyed. Local businessman Howard Hankins was hired to do the job but he just couldn't bring himself to destroy the statues, so he transported them about 11 miles down the road to his property. Howard has allowed history buffs and photographers John Plashal and Fred Schneider to host organized tours several times a year where people can buy tickets to visit the statues (which cannot be seen from the road, so showing up unannounced is discouraged and considered trespassing). Stewart met John and Fred on one of their tours, and also encountered a few excited visitors. Come along for a ride and learn more about this remarkable piece of Americana.

The Tara Show
The Bush Legacy and Open Borders: John Thune's Medicaid Betrayal

The Tara Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 10:44


In this fiery monologue, the host exposes how Senate Republican leader John Thune and the entrenched Bush-era establishment are sabotaging efforts to remove over a million illegal immigrants from taxpayer-funded Medicaid. Despite clear federal law barring non-citizens from these benefits, Thune, backed by the same open-borders donors who funded George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, and Karl Rove's decades-long globalist agenda, is accused of hiding behind parliamentary maneuvers to keep the system alive. The segment argues this is the last gasp of a corrupt political machine desperate to preserve illegal immigration as a tool to reshape America—and warns that unless the Bush-aligned “cancer” inside the Republican Party is defeated, the nation faces permanent transformation.

Late Night with Seth Meyers Podcast
A Closer Look Back: Trump's Iran Strike, Bernie's Warning About AI Love, Zohran's Win in NYC

Late Night with Seth Meyers Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2025 32:36


In an all-new episode of Late Night's podcast “A Closer Look Back,” A Closer Look Supervising Writer/Producer Sal Gentile discusses Trump's desperate attempt to sell his illegal strike on Iran and debates whether Saddam Hussein was more like Wile E. Coyote or the Road Runner. He also discusses Bernie Sanders' interview with Joe Rogan and Zohran Mamdani's win in NYC. Sal is joined by Supervising Producer Emily Erotas.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Know Your Enemy
MAGA's War Over the War with Iran (w/ Curt Mills) [Teaser]

Know Your Enemy

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 3:30


Listen to the rest of this premium episode by subscribing at patreon.com/knowyourenemy.Donald Trump's rise in U.S. politics over the past decade has been inextricable from his "America First" foreign policy and withering criticisms of the Iraq War, nation building, and both the neoconservatism that led the Republican Party to disaster during George W. Bush's presidency and the Washington establishment that still thought America could police the world. Trump's message of a restrained foreign policy and pledge to avoid getting dragged into forever wars especially seemed to resonate as he ran to take back the presidency in 2024—there was no end in sight to the war between Ukraine and Russia, and Israel was committing genocide in Gaza as Bibi Netanyahu walked all over an exhausted, only occasionally lucid Biden.But less than half a year into President Trump's second term and the failure negotiations with Iran, Israel bombed that country's nuclear facilities and assassinated their negotiators and nuclear scientists—and just over a week later, so did Trump when he ordered the dropping of massive "bunker buster" bombs to try to destroy the nuclear facilities Israel could not.In this episode, we once again talk to executive editor of The American Conservative, Curt Mills, a leading voice of the restraint and realism wing on the right, to try to understand the war within MAGA set off by the "Twelve Day War" with Iran. Why did Trump bomb Iran? Who was he listening to, or not, as he made that decision? How did the various factions within the MAGA movement respond, and what is the state of play currently in Trump World? What was Israel's role in all this? And how much longer will Trump tolerate Netanyahu's constant efforts to get the American military to fight in Israel's wars? We take up these questions, and more.Sources:Ian Ward, "The MAGA Split Over Israel," Politico, June 13, 2025Joe Gould, et al, "MAGA Largely Falls in Line on Trump's Iran Strikes," Politico, June 21, 2025Katy Balls, "Trump is Taking Fire Over 'Forever Wars,' but MAGA's Real Battle Awaits," The Times of London, June 22, 2025Jude Russo, "What Next?" The American Conservative, June 24, 2025Sohrab Ahmari, "Did Iran win the 12-day war?" Unherd, June 25, 2025

The Jimmy Dore Show
What They WON'T Tell You About U.S.'s Ugly History In Iran! w/ Scott Horton

The Jimmy Dore Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 60:43


During his first term President Donald Trump adopted a vacillating stance toward Iran—initially issuing threats and then suggesting diplomatic negotiations.  In this video guest host Misty Winston and Jimmy talk to antiwar.com's Scott Horton about the White House's decision to keep “all options on the table,” calling it irresponsible brinkmanship tantamount to terrorism against a non-threatening nation. The hosts underscore that preemptive war violates international norms and point out that even past U.S. presidents with far greater threats refrained from such actions.  Plus segments on Donald Trump belittling Iran's weak missile attack on a U.S. airbase in Qatar and Trump using the same warmongering rhetoric as his predecessor George W. Bush. Also featuring Misty Winston, Stef Zamorano, Mike MacRae and Kurt Metzger. Plus a phone call from Andrew Cuomo!

Stand Up! with Pete Dominick
1384 David Rothkopf + News & Clips

Stand Up! with Pete Dominick

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 80:21


My conversation with David begins at about 36 mins Stand Up is a daily podcast. I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. This show is Ad free and fully supported by listeners like you! Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 700 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous souls Subscribe to Rothkopf's new Substack  https://davidrothkopf.substack.com/ Follow Rothkopf Listen to Deep State Radio Read Rothkopf at The Daily Beast Buy his books David Rothkopf is CEO of The Rothkopf Group, a media company that produces podcasts including Deep State Radio, hosted by Rothkopf. TRG also produces custom podcasts for clients including the United Arab Emirates. He is also the author of many books including Running the World: The Inside Story of the National Security Council and the Architects of American Power, Superclass, Power, Inc., National Insecurity, Great Questions of Tomorrow, and Traitor: A History of Betraying America from Benedict Arnold to Donald Trump. Sam Youngman is a veteran political campaign reporter and former White House correspondent. Youngman covered the presidential campaigns of 2004, 2008 and 2012, countless U.S. House and Senate races, and the administrations of George W. Bush and Barack Obama while working for The Hill, Reuters and other news organizations. A native of Kentucky, Youngman has a BA in journalism from Western Kentucky University and now lives in Los Angeles. Today's Big Stuff is a Monday through Friday newsletter for progressive Americans who want to save their democracy while making fun of people like Donald Trump Jr. and Lauren Boebert who might actually be the same, really dumb person. . Today's Big Stuff (TBS) was founded in early 2019 by “Ready for Hillary” creator and Democratic strategist Adam Parkhomenko and former White House correspondent and veteran campaign reporter Sam Youngman. What started as a small clip service for six people, quickly expanded as thousands of stressed out Americans searched for a news source that tells it how it is — with lots of sick jokes and cuss words. In 2020, the more than 75,000 members of the Big Stuff community — also known as Sexy Patriots and Big Stufferinoes — mobilized along with 81 million other Americans to send Donald Trump crying back to Mar-a-Lago leaving a trail of urine along the way. And we're just getting started. If laughter is the best medicine, then TBS is like an injection of bleach right to the fucking face. Sign up and don't forget to share with your friends who share your twisted senses of humor and righteous outrage! Join us Monday and Thursday's at 8EST for our  Bi Weekly Happy Hour Hangout!  Pete on Blue Sky Pete on Threads Pete on Tik Tok Pete on YouTube  Pete on Twitter Pete On Instagram Pete Personal FB page Stand Up with Pete FB page All things Jon Carroll  Follow and Support Pete Coe Buy Ava's Art  Hire DJ Monzyk to build your website or help you with Marketing Gift a Subscription https://www.patreon.com/PeteDominick/gift