Not Just Politics

Join us in this episode as we sit down with Marc Palombo, the Executive Producer, and M.A.C., the Director of Playbox Productions’ debut show “1984,” which runs December 4–7 at Three Stories in partnership with the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. We talk about the bold promo graphic and what they want people to take from it, how folks on both the left and right often misinterpret Orwell’s message, and what their creative vision looks like for this new Americanized adaptation. We get into how current events shaped their approach, whether “1984” can still feel fresh instead of cliche, how their own political perspectives show up in the work, and how their feelings about the book changed through the process of bringing this show to life.Ticket Link: playbox.ticketspice.com/1984

Hey folks, join us for a special Halloween solo episode of Off the Rails as we dive into the headlines from the previous weeks, covering the government shutdown, the fragile peace deal in Gaza, the growing conflict with Venezuela, and the New York City mayoral race. Tune in for sharp commentary and a timely look at recent events.

Join us in this episode as we sit down with friend of the show Mónica Guzmán for a thoughtful conversation about polarization, trust, and the state of our democracy. We start with a powerful listener question about what we’re afraid of losing in the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, and reflect on how hard it can be to cut through media coverage to truly understand where we are as a country. We talk about whether polarization looks different now than it did three or four years ago, and discuss a recent Gallup poll covered by Ground News that shows trust in the media hitting a new low. We also explore how to share the bridge-building message with people who don’t believe in it, and where the line should be drawn between having curious conversations and protecting democracy when power is at stake.

Join us this episode as we sit down with Julian Adorney, writer for Reality’s Last Stand and author of Heal the West. We explore the power of storytelling in the digital age, the roots of polarization, the role of liberalism in a healthy society, and how religion and community can help push back against illiberalism. Julian also shares his work with Braver Angels and his vision for rebuilding trust through meaningful dialogue.

Find his website here: https://julianadorney.com/

Join us for this episode as we sit down with Jeremiah Cutright, a friend of the show and an energy and security policy analyst. We will explore the future of nuclear energy, covering both fission and fusion, and discuss how these technologies could reshape our world. Additionally, we will examine the contrasting energy policies of Biden and Trump, as well as their long-term implications. We’ll wrap up with a fun discussion about Jeremiah’s thoughts on what life might be like for him on Mars.

Join us in this episode as we sit down with Mónica Guzmán, author of I Never Thought of It That Way, to explore what it means to have fearlessly curious conversations in dangerously divided times. Mónica shares how her background led her to become a guide across the divide, what she has learned from years of bridging political gaps, and why curiosity, not persuasion, is the key to meaningful dialogue. We talk through her views on free speech, the role of media, the limits of the marketplace of ideas, and how social media shapes our sense of being seen. From her time in the West Bank to her reflections on the future of journalism, this conversation invites us to rethink how we communicate in a polarized world and what it takes to build spaces where people are open to changing their minds.

Learn more about her book here: https://www.moniguzman.com/book

Join us in this episode as we broadcast from the vibrant skyline of Roku City. We’ll discuss some thrilling topics, including the BASE jumpers at 1 PPG Place, a Molotov cocktail attack at the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence, and the passing of Pope Francis. Additionally, we’ll explore the evolving role of podcasting. This platform serves as a voice for counterculture and marginalized perspectives, while also recognizing the significant influence and responsibility it holds in today’s media landscape.

Join us this episode as we sit down with some friends from U-View Television, Point Park’s student-run TV station. We’re joined by Addison Diehl, the station manager and returning guest, along with first-time guests Jules Brock, assistant news director, and Ethan Rowinski, programming director. We dive into what a typical day looks like, the toughest parts of their jobs, and how they pulled off their 2024 Election Day broadcast. You won’t want to miss this one.

Join us this episode as we chat with Jessie Mannisto, Director of Debates at Braver Angels and former CIA Intelligence Analyst. We discuss her journey to Braver Angels, the unique aspects of their debates, and the challenges of facilitating tough conversations. Jessie shares memorable moments of surprising insights between participants, explores blind spots in American politics, and highlights Gen Z's role in bridging divides. She also reflects on her experience at the CIA and its influence on her current work, touching on media bias, polarization as a national security concern, and the future of the Braver Angels Debate Program. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in political dialogue and understanding different perspectives.

Join us for the second episode of Off The Rails, coming to you live from Steak ‘n Shake! This week, we’re diving into the wildest stories making the rounds—from Kanye’s completely fake conversation with Joe Rogan to Bobby Kennedy’s unexpected visit to, well… another Steak ‘n Shake. We also discuss Pope Francis’s improving condition and break down the bizarre saga of the Pittsburgh Snowman execution. Buckle up, because this episode goes off the rails in the best way.