Podcast appearances and mentions of Michael Cole

July 17, 2026 - J Michael Cole

WWF SmackDown!  Is  live in New York, New York on January 10, 2002!Join “The Hot Commodity” Ant C. and “Smokin'” Ant B. cover WWF SmackDown! Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley kicks off the showing stating that she is back with her husband Triple H. WWF Tag Team Champions Tazz and Spike defend against Lance Storm and WWF European Champion Christian. Afterwards, The Dudley Boyz attack the Champs. WWF Intercontinental Champion Edge battles Big Boss Man. After the match, William Regal appears on the titan tron and challenges Edge for a match at WWF Royal Rumble 2002. Test and WWF Undisputed Champion Chris Jericho challenge Rob Van Dam and The Rock. Jim Ross interviews Vince McMahon about his upcoming match against Ric Flair at Royal Rumble. Booker T battles Rikishi. During the match, Rikishi Stinkfaces Booker causing Booker to throw up on Michael Cole. In the main event, Kurt Angle goes to war with Stone Cold Steve Austin. During the match, we see Kane, Big Show, and Triple H all appear. The Game stands tall only to see The Undertaker face off with the Game. 

Responding to listener emails asking about my interactions with wrestlers, a few drinking stories, Micheal Cole's pronunciation of "WWE", Oba Femi not cashing in his championship opportunity and more.Go AD-FREE at Patreon.com/WWEPodcastBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wwe-podcast--2187791/support.

We're talking penguin Undertaker, otter Mr. McMahon, and FISH MILK on an all new Talking Taker! Join wrestling superfans Alex Doriot and Travis White on their encyclopedic exploration digging up the greatest professional wrestling character of all time as they review the movie ScreenRant called "The Worst Animated Sequel Of All Time" - Surf's Up 2: Wavemania! It's a truly bizarre cartoon that can't decide if it's made for WWE fans or fans of the first movie, so it ends up being for no one. Starring alongside The Undertaker as animated penguins are John Cena, Triple H and Paige. And then there's Vince McMahon himself as an otter with a bizarre obsession - you're not gonna believe this one! We do our best to make a sense of a nonsensical plot and discuss the interminable length of the movie, the confusing rules of the Surf's Up World, Michael Cole as an exploding seagull, the Napoleon Dynamite reunion on the cast, the puns that did actually made us chuckle, the weird foreshadowing and premonitions in the movie, and much more as we RTL (you'll have to listen to find out what that means). Plus we share some bonkers Amazon and YouTube reviews of this movie that will leave you cracking up. All that and our monthly Undertaker Sightings including Alex meeting another wrestling legend and Travis's review of all the hot 2026 movie releases so far. Download, enjoy, and RTL! Oh, and Taker Easy!   Pick up our new DADMAN INC. merch over TeePublic.com and celebrate 25 years of the Biker Taker with us!    Check out the releaunch of our buddy Stephen's podcast on the Brothers Of Collecting on the Collecting Deadman YouTube Channel!   Listen to "Reconstruction", the new full length album from Travis White! Stream Travis's new album of original tunes on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, or wherever you love to listen!   Stay connected with our Creature Community by following us on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook!   Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and check out all our travel vlogs from SummerSlam and Royal Rumbles past!

WWE SummerSlam 2026 card is quickly filling out with headline matches -- and Getting Over is here to break it down! Host Adam Silverstein opens with a brief second look at WWE Night of Champions 2026 [3:40] before co-host Chris Vannini joins to tackle The Main Event [17:50], a deep dive into the Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins and Oba Femi vs. Brock Lesnar (Hell in a Cell) bookings along with expectations for LA Knight, Jey Uso, Cody Rhodes and Sami Zayn. "The Silver King" then covers The Good, The Bad and The Ugly [1:18:20] from WWE, including plans for Chad Gable and Danhausen with the New York Knicks, Lyra Valkyrie's repackaging, Austin Theory's future, Judgment Day's ongoing breakup, Blake Monroe's debut attacking Giulia and frustratingly light booking for the women's division. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼https://nordvpn.com/GETTINGOVER| Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Tim Kail reviews WWE's latest premium live event, Night of Champions.  He critiques Jey's "soft" offense, praises Iyo Sky's selling, examines how Seth Rollins and Bron Breakker over-delivered in their non-title match, skewers Michael Cole and Corey Graves' statements about Jade Cargil and Tiffany Straton, and then basks in the joy of Sami Zayn's championship victory. Subscribe to WOW's Substack at https://workofwrestling.substack.com Get a tee-shirt at https://www.prowrestlingtees.com/workofwrestling Thanks for listening!

How AI is Democratising and Personalising Affiliate Program Management What actually happens when AI moves from buzzword to something you can use inside an affiliate program every single day?Today, Lee-Ann sits down with Michael Cole, CMO at Everflow, to break down how AI is already changing the way affiliate programs are tracked, managed, and scaled, not in theory, but in real workflows being used today.Michael shares how teams are moving away from developer-heavy processes and instead building lightweight automations, dashboards, and reporting systems directly through AI tools. The shift in using AI is not about replacing people but instead removing the bottlenecks that stop affiliate managers from doing higher-value work.Michael also explains where AI breaks down, why judgment still sits firmly with humans, and how affiliate managers can finally reclaim time for strategy, partner growth, and relationship building instead of drowning in reporting and admin tasks.You can find a variety of AI Use Case Recipes at https://www.everflow.io/ai-playbook. Key Talking Points on AI Affiliate Program Management How AI is enabling affiliate managers to build tools without developersWhy API-first platforms are becoming more powerful in an AI-driven workflowWhere AI fails: judgment, nuance, and decision-making under contextWhy affiliate managers should focus less on admin and more on relationshipsHow “headless” systems are changing how data is used across teamsThe future of affiliate management roles in AI-powered environmentsFrom Manual Reporting to AI-Driven Affiliate Program Management Affiliate management has traditionally been weighed down by reporting, spreadsheets, and manual data pulls. Michael Cole explains how AI is changing that dynamic by allowing teams to build lightweight automation layers on top of existing platforms like Everflow.Instead of waiting for development cycles, affiliate managers can now generate dashboards, connect systems like HubSpot or Slack, and automate weekly reporting using simple AI-assisted workflows. The biggest shift isn't just speed, it's control. Managers can finally design reporting structures that reflect how they actually think about performance, not how tools force them to report it.This unlocks a more precise understanding of affiliate performance, including deeper attribution, behavioral signals, and revenue impact beyond surface-level metrics.Why AI in Affiliate Marketing Still Needs Human Judgment While AI is powerful at processing data and generating outputs, Michael is clear on one point: it lacks judgment. AI can summarize, analyse, and connect systems, but it struggles with context, nuance, and decision-making. A drop in performance might be seasonal, strategic, or completely normal but AI alone can misinterpret that without human direction.This is why the role of the affiliate manager is shifting, not disappearing. The focus is moving away from repetitive admin tasks and toward higher-value work: interpreting insights, managing relationships, and deciding what actually matters for growth.The real opportunity is not automation replacing people, it's automation clearing space for better decisions.Listen to Learn More About AI for Affiliate Managers How affiliate managers are building custom tools without developersReal-world examples of AI-powered reporting inside EverflowWhy AI struggles with context and judgment in performance analysisHow headless systems are changing affiliate data accessWhy the future of affiliate management is more strategic, not less humanTimestamps[03:47] How AI enables non-developers to build automation workflows[08:40] Why AI coding in spreadsheets is becoming a core workflow[12:38] How affiliate managers are using AI for reporting and CS insights[15:34] What “headless” means for affiliate platforms like Everflow[23:49] Where affiliate managers should start with AI adoption[31:30] The future of SaaS, APIs, and AI-built affiliate systemsListen to the Full Affiliate Marketing Podcast Episode AI is already reshaping how affiliate programs are built and managed but the real shift isn't technical, it's operational.This episode with Michael Cole from Everflow breaks down how affiliate managers can move from manual reporting to intelligent, AI-assisted workflows that free up time for strategy, partner development, and performance growth.If you're working in affiliate marketing, this is the moment to understand what AI actually changes inside your day-to-day role and where it doesn't. Learn more about Everflow: https://www.everflow.io.Sign up for the Affiverse Newsletter at affiversemedia.comAlready subscribed? Share this episode with any affiliate, operator, or affiliate manager working to build trust in online gaming.Subscribe to the Affiliate Marketing Podcast on Apple PodcastsSubscribe to gain insights into scaling campaigns with accountability, sensitivity, and trust, even in the era of AI and automation.Click here to rate and review, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review."Send me a text with your questions

Chicago's own Matthew Rehwoldt, TNA's esteemed color commentator, returns to Windy City Slam to break down the Slammiversary card, discusses The Elegance Brand, Mustafa Ali, Mike Santana, The Hardys, Tom Hannifan, Michael Cole, the state of TNA, Lockdown's return to Chicago at Credit Union 1 Arena on the campus of UIC and more. Plus, Mike recaps happenings from 2econd Wrestling, DREAMWAVE All-Star Weekend and House of Glory and previews lineups for WWE, NXT and AEW Premium Live Events, plus local cards for Freelance Wrestling, Chicago Style Wrestling, ARWPRO, Iron Spirit Pro and more. Mike Pankow is a 25-year-plus professional journalist and wrestling superfan who covers local Chicagoland wrestling and national promotions like AEW and WWE. If there is something going on in Chicago, Mike knows about it. Enjoy “Wrestling, Chicago-Style” on The Broadcast Basement On-Demand Radio Network! Music by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com. Get your local wrestling fix every Tuesday everywhere podcasts can be found and always at WindyCitySlam.com!

Today we jump back 15 years to the June 8, 2011 episode of the PWTorch Livecast with PWTorch Livecast with PWTorch assistant editor James Caldwell and PWTorch columnist Pat McNeill, they discussed with live callers various "scandals" this week - Matt & Jeff Hardy, Hulk Hogan vs. Ultimate Warrior, and Vince McMahon's craziness. Also, they discuss Monday's Raw, next week's ill-fated All-Star Raw, why WWE is promoting three-hour Raws over their next PPV, mistakes made with R-Truth, Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler's dynamic on Raw, the Urban Wrestling Federation's debut, old-school ECW, and more topics. In the VIP Aftershow, they dove into the McNeill Mailbag for a look at questions including historical good & bad "giants" in wrestling, PPV buy calculations, and other topics.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

Today we jump back 15 years to two back-to-back episodes of the PWTorch Livecast from June 6 and 7, 2011.On the June 6, 2011 episode, PWTorch editor Wade Keller and PWTorch columnist Bruce Mitchell, they discussed with live callers Mick Foley's departure from TNA, whether the end of WCW or current TNA is more dysfunctional, the Tough Enough season finale following the Livecast, the upcoming Raw episode, social media & wrestling in 2011, Eric Bischoff's ratings comments, Beer Money's potential futures as singles wrestlers, how to make Sin Cara stand out, and more topics.Then on the June 7, 2011 episode, PWTorch editor Wade Keller and ProWrestling.net's Jason Powell take live calls for most of the live hour including a lot of discussion on the previous night's Raw, Mick Foley's TNA departure, TNA vs. WWE roster strength, Tommy Dreamer's TNA departure, the value of the belt, Vince McMahon's slap, Michael Cole, and more. In the previously VIP-exclusive Aftershow they discuss Raw in great detail segment by segment. It's the longest VIP Aftershow ever.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

Wait, do you think somebody might be getting fired tonight?  In this episode of Wrasslin' Raw, the boys review the final episode of Monday Night Raw in 1998, where Vince McMahon enacts his revenge against DX.  Matches get booked between Triple H and Ken Shamrock, X-pac and the Big Bossman, Billy Gunn and Kane, and the Road Dogg against Mankind.  Al Snow is still covered in a mysterious red substance, and Sable is back on our screens.  The Rock says, "Shut your mouth Michael Cole!"

This week, Taking You To School with Dr. Tom Prichard is all about being a commentator. Host John Poz and Dr Tom talk about the role, the duties, the importance, putting together matches, working with talent, working with management, Vince McMahon, Gorilla Monsoon, Jesse Ventura, Michael Cole, Gordon Solie, and others. Support #CCN by checking out mybookie.ag ! Use the code CONTROL to get a 50% bonus on your deposit! Deposit $50 & get $25, or go big and deposit $100 & get $50! Plus bet on #WWE #MITB , or any other sport on this planet! Easy deposit system & even easier withdrawals at #MyBookie At shopmando.com the Mando Starter Pack comes with a Solid Stick #deodorant + Cream Tube Deodorant, two free products of your choice (like Mini #BodyWash or Deodorant Wipes), & #free shipping. As a special offer for #TYTS listeners, new customers get $5 off a Starter Pack w our exclusive code. That's over 40% off if you use code SCHOOL Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Roman Reigns just beat Jacob Fatu and Michael Cole called him "neutered" on national TV — and Mercedes Mone just blew up the entire AEW women's division with one surprise return. Kayode and Joel break down both bombshells and why WWE is walking a razor-thin line with this Bloodline story.What we cover in this episode:- Jacob Fatu "neutered": bold storytelling or momentum killer?- Why Jacob Fatu MUST beat Roman at the end of this — and what happens if he doesn't- Bloodline fatigue: WWE has run this story three times — can Fatu be the one who finally wins?- Mercedes Mone returns as AEW Owen Hart Tournament wild card - Joel's bold prediction: Athena vs. Mercedes in the finals, Athena wins and finally hits the main roster- MJF is the #1 overall package in wrestling — fight us- El Grande Americano — MOTY contender? Joel breaks down why you need to watch it now

Former WWF writer Tommy Blacha and co-host Rob Pasbani are back to review an action packed episode of SmackDown from August 3, 2000 in Birmingham, Alabama.The soap opera drama surrounding the McMahon Helmsley era reaches new heights on the road to SummerSlam. Stephanie McMahon demands space from Triple H after the controversial ending to the previous Raw. Kurt Angle is more than happy to step in as a friend, leading to a massive six person main event where Stephanie McMahon secures the pinfall over Lita and celebrates in the arms of the Olympic gold medalist while Triple H watches in jealousy.Tommy Blacha also sheds light on the WWF infiltrating the political conventions and the push to get WWE fans registered to vote. Inside the ring, Big Show continues his path of destruction by chokeslamming Kane through the stage during a chaotic tag team match featuring The Rock and Chris Benoit.Other major discussion points include:- The Rock delivering a hilarious promo mocking Chris Benoit.- Edge and Christian laying the groundwork for TLC by delivering a con-chair-to to Jeff Hardy.- Right to Censor officially closing the APA's office for business.- X-Pac and Road Dogg picking up singles victories over Too Cool.- Steve Blackman retaining the Hardcore Championship against Perry Saturn with help from Al Snow.- A look back at a loaded episode of Sunday Night Heat featuring Eddie Guerrero, Chyna, Taz, and Val Venis.0:00 Intro and Memories of Birmingham6:56 Triple H and Trish Stratus Try to Apologize7:48 Scotty 2 Hotty vs. X-Pac13:00 Stephanie McMahon Needs Space and Kurt Angle Steps In14:22 Shane McMahon's New Alliance22:02 Eddie Guerrero and Rikishi vs. Val Venis and Taz26:46 Mick Foley Books the Main Event27:56 Matt Hardy vs. Edge and the Con-Chair-To30:06 The Rock Mocks Chris Benoit31:57 The Rock and Kane vs. Big Show and Chris Benoit34:55 Right to Censor Clears Out The Acolytes Office35:31 Steve Blackman vs. Perry Saturn for the Hardcore Championship36:47 The Acolytes vs. Right to Censor38:46 Road Dogg vs. Grandmaster Sexay41:10 The SummerSlam Commercial42:48 Main Event: Triple H, Kurt Angle, and Stephanie McMahon vs. The Dudley Boyz and Lita48:03 Michael Cole at the RNC and WWF Voter Turnout52:39 Sunday Night Heat Recap and OutroFollow Tales from The Attitude Era on all social mediahttp://youtube.com/@TFTAttitudeEra http://twitter.com/TFTAttitudeErahttp://instagram.com/TFTAttitudeErahttp://tiktok.com/@TFTAttitudeEra Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former WWF writer Tommy Blacha and co-host Rob Pasbani are back to review the final Raw of July 2000 from the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.This episode dives into the crossover between professional wrestling and mainstream pop culture, detailing The Rock appearing at the political conventions and the WWF launching a campaign to get WWE fans to register to vote. Inside the ring, the soap opera drama reaches a boiling point when Triple H tries to apologize to Stephanie McMahon, only to be caught in another compromising hammerlock position. The chaotic backstage segments culminate in Mick Foley booking a massive intergender tag team main event featuring The Rock and Lita taking on Triple H and Trish Stratus.Other major discussion points include:- The Acolytes interrupting a Right to Censor promo to fight for their rights.- Edge and Christian drawing massive heat by mocking the Atlanta Braves before battling The Hardy Boyz.- Steve Blackman and Al Snow uniting to ambush Road Dogg and X-Pac.- Taz taking a stink face during a hard hitting matchup against Rikishi.- Kurt Angle and Chris Benoit continuing their alliance in a tag team bout against The Dudley Boyz.- A beautiful on air tribute to legendary wrestling broadcaster Gordon Solie.0:00 Intro and the WWF at the 2000 Political Conventions8:29 Tribute to Gordon Solie11:51 Massive Ratings for Raw and Outdrawing Preseason Football21:26 Steve Blackman and Al Snow Attack DX23:53 Triple H Apologizes to Stephanie McMahon28:08 Mick Foley Fakes Tears and Books the Main Event31:14 Edge and Christian Mock the Atlanta Braves34:24 The Hardy Boyz vs. Edge and Christian36:22 Shane McMahon Coaches His Team39:02 Trish Stratus Apologizes to Stephanie McMahon40:52 Kurt Angle and Chris Benoit vs. The Dudley Boyz43:29 Triple H Shows Stephanie McMahon the Hammerlock44:41 Right to Censor Confronts The Acolytes48:03 Michael Cole at the RNC and the WWF Voter Block52:39 Rikishi vs. Taz1:02:54 Eddie Guerrero and Chyna vs. Perry Saturn and Val Venis1:05:02 Kane vs. Big Show1:06:02 Main Event: The Rock and Lita vs. Triple H and Trish StratusFollow Tales from The Attitude Era on all social mediahttp://youtube.com/@TFTAttitudeEra http://twitter.com/TFTAttitudeErahttp://instagram.com/TFTAttitudeErahttp://tiktok.com/@TFTAttitudeEra Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

J. Michael Cole is a Taipei-based security analyst and writer who has spent over two decades documenting Taiwan's political and security landscape. A former analyst with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), he is a Research Fellow and Executive Editor with the Prospect Foundation in Taiwan, and advises various private and governmental actors. He is also a Senior Non-Resident Fellow with the Global Taiwan Institute in Washington, D.C., the Macdonald-Laurier Institute in Ottawa, and the University of Nottingham's Taiwan Hub. In this episode of the New Books Network, we chat with Cole about his latest book, The Taiwan Tinderbox: The Island-Nation at the Centre of the New Cold War (Polity, 2025). Starting with the Sunflower Student Movement and rise of Xi Jinping, the book explores why the Taiwan Strait has become such a “tinderbox”, and surveys various tactics that the People's Republic of China has used to destabilize Taiwan. With the Ukraine War's shadow looming, Cole also examines the prospects of conflict between Taiwan and China, and discusses various means through which Taiwan and its liberal democratic allies can build resilience and interconnection. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, Al Jazeera, The Diplomat, and Eater. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

J. Michael Cole is a Taipei-based security analyst and writer who has spent over two decades documenting Taiwan's political and security landscape. A former analyst with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), he is a Research Fellow and Executive Editor with the Prospect Foundation in Taiwan, and advises various private and governmental actors. He is also a Senior Non-Resident Fellow with the Global Taiwan Institute in Washington, D.C., the Macdonald-Laurier Institute in Ottawa, and the University of Nottingham's Taiwan Hub. In this episode of the New Books Network, we chat with Cole about his latest book, The Taiwan Tinderbox: The Island-Nation at the Centre of the New Cold War (Polity, 2025). Starting with the Sunflower Student Movement and rise of Xi Jinping, the book explores why the Taiwan Strait has become such a “tinderbox”, and surveys various tactics that the People's Republic of China has used to destabilize Taiwan. With the Ukraine War's shadow looming, Cole also examines the prospects of conflict between Taiwan and China, and discusses various means through which Taiwan and its liberal democratic allies can build resilience and interconnection. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, Al Jazeera, The Diplomat, and Eater. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/east-asian-studies

J. Michael Cole is a Taipei-based security analyst and writer who has spent over two decades documenting Taiwan's political and security landscape. A former analyst with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), he is a Research Fellow and Executive Editor with the Prospect Foundation in Taiwan, and advises various private and governmental actors. He is also a Senior Non-Resident Fellow with the Global Taiwan Institute in Washington, D.C., the Macdonald-Laurier Institute in Ottawa, and the University of Nottingham's Taiwan Hub. In this episode of the New Books Network, we chat with Cole about his latest book, The Taiwan Tinderbox: The Island-Nation at the Centre of the New Cold War (Polity, 2025). Starting with the Sunflower Student Movement and rise of Xi Jinping, the book explores why the Taiwan Strait has become such a “tinderbox”, and surveys various tactics that the People's Republic of China has used to destabilize Taiwan. With the Ukraine War's shadow looming, Cole also examines the prospects of conflict between Taiwan and China, and discusses various means through which Taiwan and its liberal democratic allies can build resilience and interconnection. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, Al Jazeera, The Diplomat, and Eater. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/political-science

J. Michael Cole is a Taipei-based security analyst and writer who has spent over two decades documenting Taiwan's political and security landscape. A former analyst with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), he is a Research Fellow and Executive Editor with the Prospect Foundation in Taiwan, and advises various private and governmental actors. He is also a Senior Non-Resident Fellow with the Global Taiwan Institute in Washington, D.C., the Macdonald-Laurier Institute in Ottawa, and the University of Nottingham's Taiwan Hub. In this episode of the New Books Network, we chat with Cole about his latest book, The Taiwan Tinderbox: The Island-Nation at the Centre of the New Cold War (Polity, 2025). Starting with the Sunflower Student Movement and rise of Xi Jinping, the book explores why the Taiwan Strait has become such a “tinderbox”, and surveys various tactics that the People's Republic of China has used to destabilize Taiwan. With the Ukraine War's shadow looming, Cole also examines the prospects of conflict between Taiwan and China, and discusses various means through which Taiwan and its liberal democratic allies can build resilience and interconnection. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, Al Jazeera, The Diplomat, and Eater. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/world-affairs

J. Michael Cole is a Taipei-based security analyst and writer who has spent over two decades documenting Taiwan's political and security landscape. A former analyst with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), he is a Research Fellow and Executive Editor with the Prospect Foundation in Taiwan, and advises various private and governmental actors. He is also a Senior Non-Resident Fellow with the Global Taiwan Institute in Washington, D.C., the Macdonald-Laurier Institute in Ottawa, and the University of Nottingham's Taiwan Hub. In this episode of the New Books Network, we chat with Cole about his latest book, The Taiwan Tinderbox: The Island-Nation at the Centre of the New Cold War (Polity, 2025). Starting with the Sunflower Student Movement and rise of Xi Jinping, the book explores why the Taiwan Strait has become such a “tinderbox”, and surveys various tactics that the People's Republic of China has used to destabilize Taiwan. With the Ukraine War's shadow looming, Cole also examines the prospects of conflict between Taiwan and China, and discusses various means through which Taiwan and its liberal democratic allies can build resilience and interconnection. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, Al Jazeera, The Diplomat, and Eater. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/chinese-studies

J. Michael Cole is a Taipei-based security analyst and writer who has spent over two decades documenting Taiwan's political and security landscape. A former analyst with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), he is a Research Fellow and Executive Editor with the Prospect Foundation in Taiwan, and advises various private and governmental actors. He is also a Senior Non-Resident Fellow with the Global Taiwan Institute in Washington, D.C., the Macdonald-Laurier Institute in Ottawa, and the University of Nottingham's Taiwan Hub. In this episode of the New Books Network, we chat with Cole about his latest book, The Taiwan Tinderbox: The Island-Nation at the Centre of the New Cold War (Polity, 2025). Starting with the Sunflower Student Movement and rise of Xi Jinping, the book explores why the Taiwan Strait has become such a “tinderbox”, and surveys various tactics that the People's Republic of China has used to destabilize Taiwan. With the Ukraine War's shadow looming, Cole also examines the prospects of conflict between Taiwan and China, and discusses various means through which Taiwan and its liberal democratic allies can build resilience and interconnection. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, Al Jazeera, The Diplomat, and Eater. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/book-of-the-day

Does it look like Vince needs to get on a cycle or two?  In this episode of Wrasslin' Raw, the boys examine the fallout from the Rock Bottom Pay Per View, with championship matches being made for the New Age Outlaws against Ken Shamrock and the Big Bossman, as well as the Rock defending his title against Triple H.  The Blue Blazer continues to stink up the card, and Michael Cole leaves quite a bit to be desired on commentary.  But hey, we got to make a Linda Tripp reference!

Today we jump back 15 years (4-20-2011) to our PWTorch Livecast featuring PWTorch assistant editor James Caldwell and PWTorch columnist Pat McNeill discussing with live callers Monday's Raw ratings drop, Vince McMahon's mentality and how it affects the company with a lack of storyline planning in-place, bold Draft picks including top stars who could switch brands on Monday, legal news on Jeff Hardy today, a look back to Kurt Angle at Lockdown, when and if WWE will end the Michael Cole Experiment and how Jim Ross could end up back on TV full-time, a possible strategy WWE is employing with John Cena to refresh his character, Spike TV's potential brand changes, whether WWE will ever get behind a Japanese wrestler as a top star, plus the Live Events Center, and more.In the previously VIP-exclusive Aftershow, they dip into McNeill's Mailbag in the Torch VIP Forum for some interesting quotes on John Morrison, the 2001 Torch Draft with McNeill & Caldwell comparing which Torch staffers had the best picks, old WCW Saturday Night stories, and much more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

Today we jump back 15 years to two back-to-back episodes of the PWTorch Livecast from Apr. 18 and 19, 2011.On the Apr. 18, 2011 episode, PWTorch editor Wade Keller and PWTorch columnist Bruce Mitchell discussed with live callers Sunday night's TNA Lockdown PPV and then took ten phone calls on a variety of subjects including Lockdown, WWE's Draft, Ric Flair, The Rock, Sin Cara, Mickie James, Edge, and more.Then on the Apr. 19, 2011 episode, PWTorch editor Wade Keller and former WWE Creative Team member John Piermarini took live calls for an hour on a variety of subjects, mostly related to the previous night's Raw, including insight into the Draft process behind the scenes and stories from the past couple drafts such as last-second changes by Vince McMahon, plus the R-Truth smoking gimmick, Michael Cole making Jim Ross kiss his foot, could John Cena jump to Smackdown, Kane's future, and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

Moc. Loose. Collectors. Forever.Episode #094 of The FigGuys is absolutely stacked as Mike and Tom dive headfirst into one of the wildest weeks in wrestling and figure collecting.Coming off the excitement of WWE Elimination Chamber, the guys break down the biggest moments from the show and what it means for WrestleMania season. From match reactions to storyline speculation, the road to Mania is heating up — and the FigGuys are here for every second of it.But the real shocker of the weekend?The WWE debut of the one and only Danhausen.A mysterious box. Danhausen dancers. And somehow Michael Cole ends up with a jar of teeth. Wrestling is supposed to be weird sometimes, and the FigGuys absolutely love it. Mike and Tom discuss why WWE might actually be the perfect home for Danhausen's unique character and why the “very nice, very evil” energy could translate in a big way under the WWE spotlight.

Today's guest is a repeat offender. He's been on Headcases before, and he never fails to deliver the goods. He brings more than 40 years of experience to the table as a stylist, a manager, a multi-salon owner, and as executive chain director.He co-founded the Summit Salon Business Center, and for over 35 years he has been the founder and president of the Salon Development Corporation, an international company specializing in salon business training. As a global business educator and salon innovator, he has received countless awards for helping tens of thousands of salon professionals transform their businesses–and their lives. His genius lies in spotting digital marketing and management trends and turning them into practical systems that drive dramatic growth.He is a teacher of teachers and a mentor of mine, and most importantly a friend. This week's Headcase is the one and only Mr Michael Cole.⭐️⭐️⭐️ Check out more episodes and the videos at https://chrisbaran.com/podcast ⭐️ Join our FREE Facebook community for Salon Team Trainers today. https://facebook.com/groups/salonteamtraining ✅ Exclusive content on how to implement and scale your salon training the easy way ✅ Save time and learn what works from people just like you ✅ Get back to your mission of building the salon business and creating more jobs Learn more here - https://bit.ly/trainersplaybook Join our FB group - https://facebook.com/groups/salonteamtraining Follow us on IG - https://instagram.com/coachchrisbaran

Today we jump back 15 years to the Feb. 8, 2011 episode of the PWTorch Livecast featuring host PWTorch assistant editor James Caldwell and PWTorch columnist Greg Parks, they discussed with live callers Monday's WWE Raw in-depth from top to bottom, Sting likely shifting toward TNA rather than WWE, R-Truth's botch and a potential new heel gimmick for him, the mystery videos on Raw hinting at Undertaker - legit or swerve?, the mystery WrestleMania guest host - Rock or Brock a better host?, breaking news analysis of Raw TV ratings, Booker T's first week on Smackdown - is it a short-term or long-term gig?, Triple H's return - will it happen before or even after WrestleMania?, Michael Cole's heel role as an announcer, a debate in the Santino vs. Del Rio booking on Raw, and a ton more.In the previously VIP-exclusive Aftershow, Caldwell & Parks take more phone calls on Santino-Del Rio, Triple H, TNA's TV Title and whether they should hold a tournament, and more. They also discuss C.M. Punk's interaction with Cena and Orton on Raw, the overall state of WrestleMania 27 hype and build-up, Dolph Ziggler's role in the main event slot on Smackdown, predictions on who will be cut from NXT tonight, and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

Today we jump back 15 years to two back-to-back episodes of the PWTorch Livecast from Feb. 4 and 7, 2011.On the Feb. 4, 2011 episode, PWTorch assistant editor James Caldwell and PWTorch Nostalgia columnist Brian Hoops discussed with live callers TNA's "they" revelation on Impact, how the angle played out and how it could play out in future episodes, crowd reactions in the Impact Zone, an exclusive health update on Sir Oliver Humperdink from Brian, potential booking at Elimination Chamber leading to WrestleMania, how Mistico will fit in WWE, whether Alberto Del Rio's post-Rumble decision was announced too early, historically bad marquee matches at WrestleMania, role of managers in 2011, Lex Luger's ill-fated match to Summerslam '93, and other Nostalgia questions. In the previously VIP-exclusive Aftershow, they discuss two 20-years ago Torch Newsletters from the Flashback Series looking at WWF & WCW's business during war-time, WCW switching the World Title from Sting to Ric Flair, ol' Herb Abrams, Jeff Jarrett, and more.Then on the Feb. 7, 2011 episode, PWTorch assistant editor James Caldwell and PWTorch columnist Bruce Mitchell discussed with live callers Raw, Vince McMahon's potential short-term & long-term role, the CZW-Chikara viral video, Super Bowl and pro wrestling, Tough Enough, the direction of announcing, Michael Cole, Booker T on Smackdown commentary, Ric Flair, and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

The Dadley Boyz chat about what happened on this week's episode of Monday Night RAW, including...HUGE Royal Rumble developments!CM Punk vs. AJ Styles for the title!Natalya becomes NATTIE!Akira Tozawa & Otis are #1 contenders!Gunther threatens Michael Cole's career?!ENJOY!Follow us on Twitter:@AdamWilbourn@MSidgwick@MichaelHamflett@WhatCultureWWEFor more awesome content, check out: whatculture.com/wwe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are YOU doing here?! WWE has unearthed some shocks and surprises for the 'January Classic'. Andy Murray presents 12 Wrestlers Who Had ABSOLUTELY NO BUSINESS Being In WWE Royal Rumble...ENJOY!Follow us on Twitter:@AndyHMurray@WhatCultureWWEFor more awesome content, check out: whatculture.com/wwe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Taiwan's greatest vulnerability China's military or political warfare from within? J. Michael Cole—former Canadian intelligence officer, Senior Fellow with Global Taiwan Institute and author of “The Taiwan Tinderbox: The Island Nation at the Center of the New Cold War”—reveals how Chinese Communist Party influence operations, Taiwan independence debates and political divisions threaten cross-strait stability more than invasion scenarios.Taiwan's Internal Security CrisisCole exposes how CCP proxies use cognitive warfare, espionage and co-optation to weaken Taiwan's defense capabilities from within. Taiwan's democracy creates a paradox: countering Chinese influence without becoming authoritarian. Opposition parties blocking defense spending increases—Taiwan aims for 5% GDP military spending—sends conflicting signals about Taiwan's commitment to self-defense, weakening deterrence against Beijing.Taiwan Identity & Independence MovementsTaiwan's divisions trace to indigenous peoples, Japanese colonial rule (1895-1945, and post-1949 Kuomintang (KMT) arrival. Cole identifies two critical movements: Taidu (Taiwan independence) and Huadu (Republic of China supporters opposing Beijing annexation). United, they'd form a powerful defense against the Chinese pressure campaign, but real unity has been elusive.Hong Kong's Cautionary TaleBeijing's crushing of Hong Kong democracy under “one country, two systems” became China's worst propaganda failure for Taiwan unification. Young Taiwanese watched personal connections to Hong Kong destroyed, solidifying opposition across the political spectrum, so that even the dovish KMT publicly rejects Chinese unification proposals.Chinese Cognitive Warfare SuccessWhile China failed to convince Taiwanese they're Chinese—unification support remains below 5%—Beijing has succeeded at fostering divisions and increasing skepticism of America's reliability as a defense partner. Internet content farms and co-opted politicians amplify CCP narratives from within, exploiting Taiwan democracy against itself.The Greatest Threat: Accidental EscalationCole's nightmare scenario isn't invasion but normalized PLA presence near Taiwan. Chinese naval forces, drones, coast guard and maritime militia crowding Taiwan's waters increase collision and miscommunication risks. Beijing stands ready to exploit incidents through disinformation, blame Taiwan, and then escalate in unpredictable ways.Taiwan's Defense Strategy EvolutionTaiwan has shifted from passive defense to counter-force capabilities: domestically produced anti-ship and land-attack cruise missiles targeting China. This has required US approval, marking a major US Taiwan relations policy shift. Taiwan now emphasizes semiconductor supply chain criticality and first island chain security to make conflict consequences resonate globally.Why Taiwan's Democracy MattersCole's 20-year Taiwan residence reflects the island's resilience: a vibrant democracy thriving under constant Chinese military threat, successful despite isolation, and a model for defending democratic values without authoritarianism.

PWTorch editor Wade Keller is joined by PWTorch's Sean Radican. They start with a look at the finish of the A.J. Styles vs. Gunther main event including the tap out that didn't count. They also delve into the Adam Pearce-Bron Breakker angle, Je'Von Evans's presentation and whether Michael Cole is going to ruin it, the Women's Tag Team situation, Finn Balor stepping up to challenge C.M. Punk, and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-post-shows--3275545/support.

In this week's 5 Yrs Ago Flashback episode of the Wade Keller Pro Wrestling Post-show (1-4-2021), PWTorch editor Wade Keller was joined by Cameron Hawkins from the PWTorch East Coast Cast to review WWE Monday Night Raw with live callers and emails. They talked about Goldberg's return at the top of the show and track our poll on how excited viewers are (or aren't) about his return. They explore how the match with Drew McIntyre should go and what his strength and weaknesses were and if they still are today. They also talk about the odd Charlotte-Ric Flair angle, the over-the-top jovial New Day-Miz & Morrison angle, Keith Lee challenging Drew McIntyre for the WWE Title, the use of the Legends throughout, the latest with Randy Orton and Alexa Bliss, and much more.Then, in the VIP-exclusive Aftershow, they delve more into Hulk Hogan's prominent place on this show, WWE announcing (and some fun old Michael Cole-out-in-public stories), the prudence of having Legends hanging out together without masks right after the holidays, and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-post-shows--3275545/support.

As Royal Rumble season looms, the WhatCulture Wrestling team run through the LAMEST surprises ever, featuring fake Yokozuna, Michael Cole, Roman Reigns, Brock Lesnar, Shane McMahon, and more...ENJOY!Follow us on Twitter:@WhatCultureWWE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we jump back 15 years to two back-to-back episodes of the PWTorch Livecast from Dec. 2 and 3, 2010.On the Dec. 2, 2010 episode, PWTorch assistant editor James Caldwell and PWTorch columnist Greg Parks, they discuss with live callers the breaking news on MVP's release and cover the news from all angles for the first 30 minutes of the show, then discuss how WWE has handled Alex Riley's DUI, The Miz's first week as WWE Champion, whether WWE's announcers could be shifted around as a result of the Jerry Lawler vs. Michael Cole feud, C.M. Punk's work on commentary, and more. In the previously VIP-exclusive Aftershow, they attempt to look at a question on what wrestling might look like today if WCW bought WWE, plus discuss Miz's ESPN interview and how he's presenting himself as champion, the NXT Season 4 cast, TNA's Final Resolution PPV on Sunday, and more.Then on the Dec. 3, 2010 episode, PWTorch assistant editor James Caldwell, he discusses with live callers breaking news of TNA's Impact ratings, analysis of the ratings trend, TNA's final hype for Final Resolution, the state of wrestling announcing in WWE & TNA, Smackdown woes and how to improve the show, Top 3 shake-ups on Raw, why some listeners are hopeful for Raw going forward, direction of Michael Cole-Jerry Lawler, whether and when WWE will reveal the Raw GM, and much more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

Today we jump back 15 years to the Nov. 17, 2010 episode of the PWTorch Livecast featuring PWTorch editor Wade Keller and PWTorch columnist Pat McNeill. They discussed (rip apart) WWE's Top 50 Superstars list, then took a dozen calls on a wide variety of subjects including Undertaker, Survivor Series, WrestleMania, Breakout Moments, Michael Cole's character, Alex Riley's arrest, Roddy Piper, and more.In the previously VIP-exclusive Aftershow, McNeill presents the Live Event Center and answers McNeill Mailbag Questions on a variety of subjects including worst title belts.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

Today we jump back 15 years to the Nov. 10, 2010 episode of the PWTorch Livecast featuring PWTorch editor Wade Keller and PWTorch columnist Pat McNeill discussing with live callers the Old School Raw on Monday, 2011 WWE Hall of Fame candidates, where Shawn Michaels fit in, might Undertaker retire if he didn't wrestle at WrestleMania 27, TNA's financial position, concussions and head trauma in pro wrestling vs. other sports, the Live Events Center, plus lightning strikes and Pat McNeill's Monologue takes over for a great close to the show.In the previously VIP-exclusive Aftershow, they discussed C.M. Punk as a color commentator while injured, the possibility of the new Michael Cole character to be revealed as Cole's evil twin brother, and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

Today we jump back 15 years to two back-to-back episodes of the PWTorch Livecast from Nov. 8 and 9, 2010.On the Nov. 8, 2010 episode, PWTorch Livecast with PWTorch assistant editor James Caldwell and PWTorch columnist Bruce Mitchell discussed with live callers the previous night's TNA Turning Point PPV including the usual booking gaffes, Jeff Hardy's heel turn one month in, Pope's odd promo, Dreamer-RVD, and more. Also, Jerry Lawler missing Raw, Michael Cole's heel persona needing to be scratched and why, status of Nexus right now - are they being overexposed?, why WWE splits up tag teams and the back-story on it, history of shoot wrestling, Gary Hart's book, a role for Steve Austin at WrestleMania, and more.On the Nov. 9, 2010 episode, PWTorch Livecast with PWTorch editor Wade Keller and Jason Powell of Prowrestling.net discussing with live callers the previous night's WWE Raw, Santino's Tea Time, the hype for Survivor Series, will any matches be announced on the mid-card?!, state of tag teams in wrestling, state of TNA and what can be done to turn around financial aspect, whether there was someone better for Matt Morgan's slot at Turning Point, plus much more. In the previously VIP-exclusive Aftershow, they discuss the Turning Point PPV in-depth and touch on more TNA subjects.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

In today's episode the TFP team is stumped!!! We cannot figure out any storyline and we like it.......Nando T brings up any interesting topic and the team answers the call by giving a story that WWE needs to pick up.......we're just saying, it's that good!!! Round table of topics, show breakdowns and everyone's favorite segment......You Just Made the List!!! CHEERS!!!JERKING THE CURTAINROUND TABLE OF TOPICSNEWSTNA Bound 4 Glory highlights Roster shake up…..again Wes Lee being the biggest name Ridge Holland announces his release from WWEIs Matt Cardona with NXT???“You Just Made the List” Top 5 Babyfaces (male)SMACKDOWN Cody kicks off Smackdown and the confidence is seeping through his suit Seth Rollins is NOT a wanker Perth

Welcome to Sales & Cigars—where the only smoke we blow is from cigars. This week, Walter sits down with Rocky Lalvani, the numbers-savvy entrepreneur behind Profit Comes First and the Profit Answer Man podcast. Rocky is on a mission to help business owners truly understand the business of business—from P&L and cash flow to aligning sales compensation with long-term growth. If you've ever had a killer sales quarter but still couldn't figure out where the money went, this episode is for you. Rocky breaks down how to build wealth, why market share is won in tough times, and what business owners need to do before turbulence hits. In This Episode: • Why so many business owners don't actually understand their own numbers • The difference between revenue, profit, and cash flow (and why it matters) • What Rocky learned from growing up in an immigrant family obsessed with money strategy • How your relationship with money shapes your business decisions • Why “cut costs” isn't the only play—and what to focus on instead • Aligning your sales comp plan to drive profit, not just gross revenue • Planning for a downturn before it happens—emotion-free decision-making • Real talk on what freedom actually means for most entrepreneurs Critical Ideas: • Market share is earned in bad times—don't freeze, take action • If your team doesn't understand profit, your comp plan is working against you • Your sales team should be aligned with your operations team, not at odds • Salespeople will follow the money—so incentivize the right behavior • You need to understand why your clients buy—not just what they buy     Connect with Michael Cole and Next Level Technician: • Website: https://profitcomesfirst.com/ • Free Book: https://profitcomesfirst.com/the-profit-blueprint • Profit Answer Man podcast: https://profitcomesfirst.com/podcasts/   Connect with Walter Crosby and Sales & Cigars: Website: Helix Sales Development LinkedIn: Walter Crosby Instagram: @wcrosby248 Facebook: Helix Sales Development     Share Your Thoughts: We'd love to hear your feedback and experiences! Drop us a line and join the conversation on social media using #SalesAndCigars. Never Miss an Episode! Join the Sales & Cigars community by subscribing to our podcast and YouTube channel: Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcasts: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Spotify: Follow on Spotify ...and wherever you listen to podcasts! Subscribe to Us on YouTube: Stay updated with our latest video content by subscribing to our YouTube channel. Hit the bell icon for notifications on new uploads! YouTube: Sales & Cigars Channel Stay in the loop: By subscribing, you'll get instant access to new episodes, insightful conversations, and bonus content designed to elevate your sales skills and more. Keep savoring those cigars and stay sharp in sales! Until next time, keep listening to Sales & Cigars—the podcast where the only smoke we blow is from cigars.

Today we jump back 15 years to two back-to-back episodes of the PWTorch Livecast from Sept. 21 and 22, 2010.On the Sept. 21, 2010 episode, PWTorch editor Wade Keller and ProWrestling.net's Jason Powell, they discuss the Raw ratings drop, Night of Champions fallout, who should be TNA Champ right now, Michael Cole as a heel announcer, mystery G.M. speculation, RVD's shameful promo on TNA Impact last week, and much more including the previously VIP-exclusive Aftershow topic of merging titles and brands and more.On the Sept. 22, 2010 episode, PWTorch assistant editor James Caldwell and PWTorch Nostalgia columnist Brian Hoops includes discussion with live callers on Tuesday night's NXT, C.M. Punk on commentary, whether Punk is the new Jericho, Jericho's storyline and real-time Tweet discussion, the poor Raw TV rating and what WWE can do, whether it means Vince McMahon or Triple H are coming back for a quick fix, John Cena as a potential heel with Nexus, the mystery Raw GM, the state of the women's division in WWE, Cole ripping on Hart Dynasty on Raw, and much more. Also, Pat McNeill's Live Events Center! In the previously VIP-exclusive Aftershow, they discuss in-depth RVD's promo on Impact last week and where it fits in historically, the lack of vision and direction for TNA, steroids in sports including the PED issue in MMA with Chael Sonnen, plus Nostalgia News & Notes this week.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

Dear listener, you are not ready for this. You are not ready for the 1985 neo-noir crime thriller starring Kris Kristofferson entitled Trouble in Mind. We were also not ready for it, but we watched it anyway thanks to our old friend and Patreon supporter Michael Cole. He knew our wheelhouses and picked a doozy of an entry. We talk noir, postmodernism, crime films, Kris Kristofferson, Divine, and much, much more as we try to piece apart this curio of a film, Trouble in Mind. Join us now!

Today we jump back 15 years to two back-to-back episodes of the PWTorch Livecast from Sept. 15 and 16, 2010.On the Sept. 15, 2010 episode, PWTorch assistant editor James Caldwell and PWTorch Nostalgia columnist Brian Hoops includes discussion with live callers on Tuesday night's NXT, Michael Cole conspiracy theories on why he could be the Raw GM and/or the Nexus leader, why the logic could fall apart on Cole, the future of NXT, the NXT Gong, Chris Jericho's future, Matt Hardy's situation, whether TNA would put the TNA Title on Jeff Hardy with his legal issue, a theory on why TNA might have stretched out the TNA Title tournament, Kevin Nash's TNA future, independent contractor vs. employee latest, The Miz vs. Daniel Bryan being the top feud going into Night of Champions, why the Hell in a Cell PPV could be a factor in the NOC PPV booking and outcomes, and much more.Then in the previously VIP Aftershow, they discussed NXT's future and whether it will continue past the final week on Syfy, Kane vs. Undertaker build-up and likely NOC and HIAC outcomes, a bio review of Mike Shaw, the 1990s WWF characters, plus the weekly 20-years-ago Torch Newsletter Flashback review of a potential WWF-Fox TV deal, USWA, and Herb Abrams's UWF. With that, Fun With Herb playing Beach Brawl '91 PPV trivia, and more.On the Sept. 16, 2010 episode, PWTorch editor Wade Keller and Greg Parks includes discussion with live callers on TNA Impact tonight, the TNA Title tournament and RVD's first promo tonight on Impact since the storyline write-off, WWE's Wellness Policy change this week with in-depth discussion on whether it addresses the real issue, the Night of Champions PPV, and many more topics covered.Then, in the previously VIP-exclusive Aftershow, they discuss in-depth whether WWE, TNA, and ROH are better off/worse off compared to five years ago. Also, how to rebuild the WWE tag division.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wade-keller-pro-wrestling-podcast--3076978/support.

Welcome to Sales & Cigars—where the only smoke we blow is from cigars. This week, Walter sits down with Michael Cole, founder of Next Level Technician, for a conversation all about helping people—the true heartbeat of sales, business, and leadership. What started as a way to connect a few underserved young people with skilled trade jobs turned into a national staffing and training company with real community impact. From hospitality to sales to entrepreneurship, Michael's journey is rooted in one belief: if you help enough people, you'll get what you need. This episode unpacks what it really means to add value, lead with integrity, and grow something meaningful—even when you're sweating payroll or navigating tough setbacks. In This Episode: Why helping people is the foundation of lasting success Michael's unexpected leap from sales to staffing founder The moment he realized he had something important to build How green tech training is addressing the skilled labor shortage Real talk: surviving client bankruptcy, making payroll, and staying the course Lessons in management: challenge your team and watch leaders emerge The power of consistent effort—and just showing up Critical Ideas: Always be looking for ways to add value—as a salesperson or entrepreneur If you haven't sweated payroll, you haven't truly run a business Give your team room to grow—and your managers will become leaders Serving others first opens up new doors for everyone involved     Connect with Michael Cole and Next Level Technician: Website: https://www.nextleveltechnician.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-technician/ Connect with Walter Crosby and Sales & Cigars: Website: Helix Sales Development LinkedIn: Walter Crosby Instagram: @wcrosby248 Facebook: Helix Sales Development     Share Your Thoughts: We'd love to hear your feedback and experiences! Drop us a line and join the conversation on social media using #SalesAndCigars. Never Miss an Episode! Join the Sales & Cigars community by subscribing to our podcast and YouTube channel: Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcasts: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Spotify: Follow on Spotify ...and wherever you listen to podcasts! Subscribe to Us on YouTube: Stay updated with our latest video content by subscribing to our YouTube channel. Hit the bell icon for notifications on new uploads! YouTube: Sales & Cigars Channel Stay in the loop: By subscribing, you'll get instant access to new episodes, insightful conversations, and bonus content designed to elevate your sales skills and more. Keep savoring those cigars and stay sharp in sales! Until next time, keep listening to Sales & Cigars—the podcast where the only smoke we blow is from cigars.

Support our sponsors this week by using the links below for the exclusive Solomonster offers!BETTERHELP ▶ Get 10 PERCENT OFF your first month and give online therapy a try at http://www.betterhelp.com/solomonster to start being your best self. Thanks to BetterHelp for sponsoring this week's episode!FACTOR MEALS ▶ Use code "solomonster50off" at http://www.factormeals.com/solomonster50off to get 50 PERCENT OFF your first box plus FREE BREAKFAST for one year!Solomonster reviews the final WWE Smackdown before Wrestlepalooza with Brock Lesnar attacking Michael Cole and Corey Graves, another quality outing for Sami Zayn in the US Title Open Challenge series, a BIG Triple Threat title match made for next week's show and Drew McIntyre leaves Cody Rhodes laying ahead of their WWE championship match.***Follow Solomonster on X (formerly Twitter) for news and opinion:http://x.com/solomonsterSubscribe to the Solomonster Sounds Off on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/user/TheSolomonster?sub_confirmation=1Become a Solomonster Sounds Off Channel Member:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9jcg7mk93fGNqWPMfl_Aig/join

John Pollock and Wai Ting review WWE Raw following SummerSlam, the return of Brock Lesnar, and Seth Rollins' MITB cash-in to win the World Heavyweight Championship.Featuring: Becky Lynch and Nikki Bella in a heated promo battle, Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss vs Judgment Day in a rematch for the Tag Titles, Michael Cole provides details about Brock Lesnar's return, and the third match between Sheamus and Rusev.The XL Edition continues at POSTwrestlingCafe.com with News of the Day and Feedback, ad-free and timestamped. Today's stories:The return of Brock Lesnar to WWEJanel Grant's spokesperson releases a statement AEW Full Gear location G1 Climax update Friday Night SmackDown ratings NXT & AEW Dynamite lineups POST Wrestling Café Schedule:Tuesday: WWE Unreal - Ep. 1 with John & WaiWednesday: MCU L8R - Eyes of Wakanda Thursday: Rewind-A-Wai - The Best of the WWF - Vol. 16 (1988)Thursday: G1 Climax - Night 12 & 13Saturday: Collision Course FREE Shows:Tuesday: upNXTWednesday: Rewind-A-Dynamite (XL in the Café)Wednesday: Pollock & ThurstonFriday: Rewind-A-SmackDown (XL in the Café)Sunday: G1 Climax – Night 14 & 15 Review [FREE]Photo Courtesy: WWE Rewind-A-Raw Theme by Colby John: https://soundcloud.com/colbyjohnBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/postwrestling.comX: http://www.twitter.com/POSTwrestlingInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/POSTwrestlingFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/POSTwrestlingYouTube: http://www.youtube.com/POSTwrestlingSubscribe: https://postwrestling.com/subscribePatreon: http://postwrestlingcafe.comForum: https://forum.postwrestling.comDiscord: https://postwrestling.com/discordMerch: https://Chopped-Tees.com/POSTwrestlingOur Sponsors:* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On today's show, Pat, Michael Cole, Darius Butler, AJ Hawk and the boys are LIVE in Vegas from WWE World to recap an INCREDIBLE WrestleMania weekend that saw John Cena defeat Cody Rhodes to capture his 17th World Championship, Seth Freakin Rollins beating Roman Reigns & CM Punk, and much much more. We also cover the start of the NBA & NHL Playoffs. In the first hour, the NEW WWE World Champion John Cena joins the progrum to talk about his relationship with the WWE Universe, all that he has given to the business, his plan to shut dahn wrestling, his integrity, his hair, who he views as the future of the company, and so much more. In the second hour, we are joined by the Wiseman Paul Heyman joined the boys on stage to defend his actions in support of Seth Freakin Rollins on Saturday night, how CM Punk put him in a compromising position, his experience at the WrestleMania roast last night, his approach to his work and craft, and so much more. To close the show, the Lord of the Marks & host of the Sam Roberts Show on SiriusXM, Sam Roberts joins us to give his thoughts on all the WrestleMania action and what we can look forward to at Raw on NETFLIX tonight. Make sure to subscribe to youtube.com/thepatmcafeeshow or watch on ESPN (12-2 EDT), ESPN's YouTube (12-3 EDT), or ESPN+. We appreciate the hell out of all you. We'll be back live at the ThunderDome tomorrow. Cheers.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's show, Pat, Michael Cole, AJ Hawk, Darius Butler and the boys are LIVE in Vegas from WWE World for a LOADED show previewing WrestleMania 41 this weekend at Allegiant Stadium. In the open, we reveal the WrestleMania set in extraordinary fashion. In the first hour, we are joined by the Original Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns to be wholly Acknowledged by WWE World & the progrum, discuss Paul Heyman's recent betrayal, how proud he is of Jey Uso, and preview his Triple Threat match to settle historical scores with CM Punk & Seth Freakin' Rollins. Also in the first hour, WWE Hall of Famer & GOAT, the Texas Rattlesnake, Stone Cold Steve Austin jumped on stage to reminisce about WrestleMania 38 in Dallas, Texas, life on Broken Skull Ranch here in Nevada, his business ventures, and much more. In the second hour, the Eradicator Rhea Ripley joined the progrum to tell us how she feels ahead of her Triple Threat match to reclaim the Women's World Championship vs. Bianca Belair & Iyo Sky, the growth of WrestleMania over the last decade, how she grew into herself while in the WWE, and more. Also in the second hour, CCO of the WWE, 14x Champion, the King of Kings Triple H joined the show to show his love for the passionate fans here at WWE World, whether or not there is a ceiling on how big WrestleMania can become, why John Cena cannot kill the WWE, his second induction into the WWE Hall of Fame this evening, his creative process, and much more. Make sure to subscribe to youtube.com/thepatmcafeeshow or watch on ESPN (12-2 EDT), ESPN's YouTube (12-3 EDT), or ESPN+. We appreciate the hell out of all you. We'll see you LIVE from WWE World again on Monday to recap all the WrestleMania action. Cheers.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GOAT WWE announcer Michael Cole joins the boys to recap Royal Rumble 2025, debate Vince McMahon Vs Triple H, call out Logan Paul for flirting with Tiffany Stratton, analyze JD McDonagh’s NEARLY FATAL bump, Roman Reigns Vs Logan Paul, Corey Graves getting demoted from SmackDown, Pat McAfee calling him a “booze-bag”, his new 8-year WWE contract, getting his tooth knocked out in the ring, why WWE fans HATE Logan Paul & more…   SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST ► https://www.youtube.com/impaulsive   Watch Previous (T.I. Speaks On Kendrick’s Super Bowl Performance & Drake’s Reaction, Breakfast Club Meltdown) ► https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZXC67uUmWU&t=1s   ADD US ON: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/impaulsiveshow/   Timestamps: 0:00 Welcome Michael Cole!