In this episode, John engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Simon Moya Smith and Julie Francella about the complexities of Indigenous representation in government, particularly in the context of recent political appointments. They unpack the implications of Mark Wayne Mullen's nomination to run Homeland Security and how it reflects on Indigenous communities. The conversation also touches on the historical roles of women in Indigenous nations and the lasting impact of colonial policies on their rights and identities.

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John talks about the firing of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and replacing her with someone equally horrible Sen. Markwayne Mullin. Then, he plays a parody song about Kristi from the one and only Rocky Mountain Mike. Next, John chats with award-winning Democratic Strategist Max Burns about the war in Iran. And wrapping it up - he welcomes back former pastor Keith Giles and religious author Matthew Distefano to chat with listeners about the bible and the intersection of religion and politics.

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In the latest episode, Jon Fugelsang takes listeners on a rollercoaster ride through the current state of American politics, focusing on two major topics: the escalating conflict in Iran and the chaotic Republican primary in Texas. As the Pentagon reports casualties from military actions, Fugelsang emphasizes the lack of clarity regarding the U.S. government's strategy in the region. He highlights the disapproval among Americans regarding these military actions, with a staggering statistic showing that only one in four citizens supports the strikes against Iran. Alongside Fugelsang is podcaster Bob Seska, who adds his unique perspective to the discussion. The duo delves into the implications of the recent Senate votes that have allowed President Trump to wield unchecked power in matters of war. They explore the constitutional responsibilities of Congress and the alarming trend of Republican senators siding with the President rather than upholding their duties as checks and balances. Next, The God Squad is back to discuss the cross between religion and politics. And finally Dr. Tracy Pearson joins the crew to give her legal expertise to listener's questions.

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Today - John discusses the administrations reasoning for the war in Iran which continued to shift and bend depending on the official and the outlet wishing to know. Meanwhile, attention has shifted to the Strait of Hormuz and oil tankers’ ability to safely exit a region long patrolled by Iran. Ships from Britain and France will enter the region to chaperone tankers through the region, but Donald Trump says critical nations that refuse to help, like Spain, will instead see embargoed trade. John also talks about the right wing Christian Nationalists who are pushing for war because they believe the apocalypse will bring Jesus back to earth. Then, he interviews Dr. Angela Simms, an Assistant Professor at Barnard College. They discusses her new book, "Fighting for a Foothold," which examines the structural issues undermining the Black middle class in Prince George's County, Maryland. Her insights shed light on the systemic barriers that persist despite the hard work and dedication of many residents. Next, John speaks with Dr. Anahita Dua, a practicing surgeon and healthcare advocate, who emphasizes the importance of having a decisive and knowledgeable U.S. Surgeon General. She critiques the current public health messaging and highlights the need for clarity and confidence in addressing health crises, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. And finally, "Comedy Daddy" - Keith Price returns to chat with listeners and bring levity to the doom and gloom.

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In this episode, John Fugelsang reflects on his recent experiences at the Audible Awards and shares exciting news about his New York Times bestselling book. Broadcasting live from the iconic Howard Stern Tower, John shares his excitement about attending the Audible Awards, where he was nominated for two prestigious accolades. The atmosphere is electric as he recounts the thrill of being recognized for his work. The episode takes a turn as John addresses current events, including a tragic shooting in Austin and the implications of recent U.S. military actions in the Middle East. His commentary is sharp and insightful, blending humor with a critical examination of the political landscape. John reminds us that while the world may seem chaotic, there is always an opportunity to make a difference through our individual contributions. As the episode unfolds, listeners are treated to a thought-provoking interview with Professor Corey Brettschneider, who discusses the constitutional implications of the current administration's actions. The conversation is both enlightening and entertaining, showcasing John's ability to tackle serious topics with wit and charm. Then finally, John chats with comedian Rhonda Hansome and they talk to listeners about the WAR in Iran.

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John discusses the Pentagon ending their partnership with Anthropic AI after a major dispute over their military use. Then, he talk politics and religion with the Rev. Barry Lynn who's an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ and is the former the executive director for Americans United for the Separation of Church and State. And finally, John jokes with MST3K's TV's Frank Conniff about current news and pop culture.

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John talks with Simon Moya-Smith who's an Oglala Lakota and Chicano journalist. He’s a contributing writer at NBC News and TheNation.com. He’s the author of the forthcoming book, ‘Your Spirit Animal is a Jackass,’ and he is an Adjunct Professor of Indigenous Studies at the University of Colorado Denver. John also talks with Julie Francella who's a mental health professional experienced in handling complex trauma with Indigenous youth and families. She's also an enrolled member of the Ojibway of Batchewana First Nation Reserve, and teaches Indigenous Studies at Durham College, focusing on the impacts of colonization on First Nations people. They discuss TIME magazine featuring Jordan Harmon and Mackenzie Roberts, two citizens of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, on the cover of its issue titled “The People vs. AI,” highlighting a growing grassroots pushback against the unchecked expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure across the United States. They also talk about the state of New Mexico finally investigating the forced sterilization of native women and in Sant Fe there's a big fight over a monument honoring calvary soldiers which native protesters toppled in 2020. Sant Fe residents are claiming the monument represented generations of genocide against Native Americans.

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John's monologue today is about Trump saying “I’d love not to use” the the military to attack Iran, “but sometimes you have to.” He has ordered the largest US military build-up in the Middle East since the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, while Iran has vowed to respond to any attack with force. Then, he speaks about politics and campaigning with Kelly Dietrich who is founder and CEO of the National Democratic Training Committee (NDTC). With decades of experience on the campaign trail with candidates - Kelly’s expertise in fundraising and staff training have shaped NDTC into an industry leader in Democratic politics. And then finally, he chats with prize-winning investigative reporter Art Levine. For The Washington Spectator, Levine closely examines the cavalcade of false prophets and junior-level fascists that are currently scrambling for supreme control of the MAGA Movement.

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In the latest episode - John kicks off with a recap of the State of the Union, where he dissects Trump's remarks, highlighting the discrepancies and the political theater that often overshadows substantive policy discussions. He then talks about Democratic and Republican lawmakers who peppered Trump's nominee for surgeon general with hours of questions at a confirmation hearing, asking Casey Means about her stands on vaccines and more. Means - an un-licensed doctor, entrepreneur, and health influencer - was also questioned heavily about her qualifications and possible conflicts of interest. Then, Bob Cesca is back to joke about Trump's speech and the Epstein files fallout. Next, one of the central themes of the episode is the rise of Christian nationalism in American politics. The God Squad AKA Dillon Naber Cruz and Desimber Rose delve into how this ideology influences policy decisions and shapes the political landscape, often at odds with the foundational principles of democracy. The discussion emphasizes the need for a collective pushback against these trends, advocating for a return to core values of justice and equality. Then finally, legal analyst Dr. Tracy Pearson discusses recent court decisions that impact civil rights and public health. The conversation touches on the implications of these rulings, particularly in relation to reproductive rights and immigration policy.

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John and Chris comment as they air Trump's State of the Union live as it happens. FORTUNATELY most of Trump's lies and vitriol has been flushed from this podcast. (YAY) As the speech ends, John speaks with Lurie Daniel Favors, Esq. who serves as Executive Director at a racial justice law center based in New York City. She is an author, activist and attorney with a longstanding commitment to racial and social justice. She also hosts the Lurie Daniel Favors Show on Sirius XM’s Urban View Network, a national talk show that tackles issues of race, culture, gender, identity, politics and the law and you can also find her on the accompanying podcast, Lurie Breaks it Down. Then, closing it up, John welcomes back Ameshia Cross who is a democratic strategist for national, state, and local campaigns, a regular political commentator and contributor on MSN, NBC, BBC, SiriusXM, iHeart Radio, and more.

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