Ken Bensinger is co-host of Chameleon: The Michigan Plot, which details the trials of militia members who sought to (or at least talked a lot about) kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. There were, at times, more government informants and undercover officials than bonafide ill-intentioned militia members driving the plot, which was more aspirational than operational. And, speaking of hot air, we talk helium, medical devices, and smuggled coolant in "Gas News." And who, day and night, must scramble for a living? The podcasters! THE PODCASTERS! Tradition!

Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara
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The Gang That Couldn't Kidnap Straight

For thirty minutes each day, Pesca challenges himself and his audience, in a responsibly provocative style, and gets beyond the rigidity and dogma. The Gist is surprising, reasonable, and willing to critique the left, the right, either party, or any idea.

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In this installment of Best Of The Gist, a break from our typical format for the weekend. Today we’ll listen to Mike’s recent appearance on WILL, which is Illinois Public Media. He was invited to sit on a panel to discuss if NPR is biased. Mike is just one voice of several in the conversation you will hear (which gets a bit heated in a few spots), but it was an excellent discussion and one we hope you’ll enjoy. 
Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara 
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BEST OF THE GIST: Criticizing NPR on NPR Edition

For decades, bad posture was seen as everything from a moral failing, to a health risk, to a military vulnerability. In her new book, Slouch: Posture Panic in Modern America, University of Pennsylvania historian of medicine Beth Linker discusses how concerns over standing up straight touches eugenics, pseudo-science, and power posing. Plus, Columbia University students inveigh against presumed exclusionary practices at a proposed Tel Aviv campus while supporting a campus in Beijing schooling more Chinese students than any other college. And Chris Hayes of MSNBC argues we've all been paying too much attention to college protests.

Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara
Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com
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Posturing over Protests and Protesting over Posture

Charles Kupchan, Georgetown Professor and former Obama National Security official, says that the funding for Ukraine is necessary for the desperate country but probably won't lead to retaking much territory controlled by Russia. He also says, the money will stabilize the country which is exactly what is needed for a true peace process to occur. Plus, Kristi Noem crashes in the polls ... expert's say. And an Arizona senator bucks her party on abortion.

Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara
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Does $61 Billion For Ukraine Come Too Late?

The pro-Palestinian encampment at UCLA is attacked, and the police are no where to be found. A pro-Palestinian building takeover is thwarted at Columbia, and the police are found at fault. Plus, more uncomfortable conversations with a Jew and a former NFL linebacker.

Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara
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Cops On A Campus, Chaos On Another

Analyzing what the campus divestment movement is really asking for. Is it doable? It is. It is advisable? It isn't. What effect will it have on the war in Gaza? None. Let's riot. Plus, Donald Trump is found guilty of a criminal offense. The experts say this could have little to no effect on his election chances ... Mike thinks otherwise. And Noa Tishby and Emmanuel Acho engage in Uncomfortable Conversations With A Jew.

Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara
Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com
To advertise on the show, visit: https://advertisecast.com/TheGist
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The Gang That Couldn't Kidnap Straight

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