Soundtrack of the Week
A comedy podcast diving into the latest news of the week.
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Episode 47: Lexapro and Cons
08/10/2025
Episode 47: Lexapro and Cons
After nearly 40 years of white-knuckling life with anxiety, Jay has finally joined Team Psych Meds™. Meredith and Ty — seasoned pros in the world of pharmaceutical mood maintenance — welcome the rookie to the roster. From side effects to life upgrades, the gang kicks back on the imaginary shrink’s couch and swaps war stories about mental health, meds, and the weird, wonderful ways our brains respond to modern chemistry. Side effects of this episode may include headaches, diarrhea, and sexual dysfunction. Consult with your doctor before listening. (0:00:00) - Intro (spooky season is upon us, Ma'am vs. Miss, SOTW book club) (0:22:37) - Sounds of the Week: (0:47:35) - Psych Meds Songs: "Mother's Little Helper" by The Rolling Stones "Meds" by Placebo (feat. Alison Mosshart) "I Wanna Be Sedated" by Ramones Notes: (0:12:52) (0:23:07) (0:23:30) (0:26:39) (0:29:00) (0:30:00) (030:13) (0:31:25) (0:32:52) (0:40:55) (0:40:55) (0:42:20) (0:42:24) (0:59:30)
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Episode 46: Pedo Files
07/27/2025
Episode 46: Pedo Files
Donald J. Trump is flexing unprecedented power, backed by a Republican-led Congress and a conservative-supermajority Supreme Court. But could the ghost of Jeffrey Epstein be his unexpected undoing? This week, the gang unpacks the explosive controversy surrounding the Epstein files—exploring whether the most notorious pedophile in history is posthumously challenging the most powerful man in America. (0:00:00) - Intro (Meredith's trip to Omaha, famous pedophiles, Jay's first time on meds) (0:22:23) - Sounds of the Week: (0:40:56) - The Epstein files Songs: "Seventeen" by Winger "Edge of the World" by Faith No More "Expose Yourself to Kids" by GG Allin Notes: (0:05:20) (0:07:45) (0:07:54) (0:27:35) (0:31:11) (0:31:40) (0:32:40) (0:34:24) (0:34:53) (0:41:37) (0:41:48) (0:42:05) (0:42:20) (0:42:31) (0:43:05) (0:43:36) (0:43:50) (0:44:08) (0:44:14) (0:44:28) (0:45:00) (0:45:53) (0:46:54) (0:47:26) (0:47:42) (0:47:55) (0:48:17) (0:48:27) (0:48:48) (0:49:03) (0:49:11) (0:49:21) (0:50:20) (0:52:14) (0:54:33) (0:54:45) (0:55:05) (0:55:12) (0:55:15) (0:55:23) (1:02:17) (1:06:31) (1:06:43) (1:06:55) (1:08:20)
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Episode 45: Media Culpa
07/13/2025
Episode 45: Media Culpa
Journalism's having a moment—and not in a good way. We're only halfway through the year, and mainstream media's already managed to trip over its own feet... again. Truth is, it's been a slow-motion train wreck for years, and a lot of the damage is self-inflicted. This week, the gang digs into how legacy outlets keep botching the basics, what they're getting wrong, and whether there's any hope of turning things around. (0:00:00) - Intro (Meredith's Colorado porch pirate, hotels suck, immigration update) (0:26:08) - Sounds of the Week: (0:48:58) - Roles and responsibilities of mainstream media Songs: "A Letter to the New York Post" by Public Enemy "Trouble Every Day" by Frank Zappa & The Mothers of Invention "Dirty Laundry" by Don Henley Notes: (0:06:27) (0:07:04) (0:16:57) (0:17:25) (0:17:38) (0:17:55) (0:18:14) (0:20:00) (0:20:25) (0:20:50) (0:21:49) (0:31:12) (0:34:10) (0:34:10) (0:34:22) (0:37:51) (038:11) (0:39:20) (0:41:58) The actual report could not be found, so the claim cannot be confirmed. (0:58:53) (0:59:55) (1:01:07) (1:17:04) (1:17:29) (1:22:14)
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Episode 44: No Kings
06/29/2025
Episode 44: No Kings
It's the Fourth of July Episode! What's more patriotic than liberal protests railing against the government and right-wing glorification of the military? This week, the gang talks about the nationwide No Kings protests and President Donald Trump's military parade. The discussion turns into a critique of the mainstream media and how they are dropping the ball in a big way. (0:00:00) - Intro (protest traffic, Ty's conflicting feelings about a manchild Royals fan) (0:20:28) - Sounds of the Week: (0:41:40) - No Kings protests and military parade Songs: "Kill the King" by Megadeth "King Nothing" by Metallica "Kings and Queens" by Aerosmith Notes: (0:02:15) (0:02:30) (0:02:57) (0:15:14) (0:20:35) (0:20:35) (0:20:35) (0:20:35) (0:25:27) Dishwalla is not a Christian rock band. Although the song "Counting Blue Cars" is about God, it depicts God as a female. Ty was thinking about Jars of Clay and their hit song "Flood." (0:27:05) (0:27:34) (0:28:50) (0:31:11) (033:10) (0:34:39) (0:35:33) (0:43:25) (0:48:31) (0:49:50) (0:49:50) (0:49:50) (0:49:50) (0:50:07) (0:51:09) (0:51:29) (0:55:00) (0:56:05) (0:56:16) (0:57:55) (1:02:38) (1:09:22) (1:12:00) (1:13:22) (1:18:28) (New York Times references on pages 37, 42, 44, 47, 50 and 51) (1:18:47)
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Episode 43: Pride and Killjoy
06/15/2025
Episode 43: Pride and Killjoy
Ty is out this week, but the show must go on, so Jay and Meredith take the helm and bring in special guest Chad (). It's June, so the gang discusses Pride Month, including some of the many challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. This time, someone with direct knowledge and experience speaks about the main topic. (0:00:00) - Intro (Ty is dead, SOTW welcomes Chad, Meredith and Chad are prepping for protests) (0:17:20) - Sounds of the Week: Me Too is back! ICE protest in Los Angeles (0:38:58) - Pride and other monthly observances Songs: "Ever Fallen in Love" by Buzzcocks "Nancy Boy" by Placebo "Be Aggressive" by Faith No More Notes: (0:06:40) (0:21:55)
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Episode 42: SOTW Travel Guide
05/25/2025
Episode 42: SOTW Travel Guide
It's Memorial Day Weekend! Like other summer holidays, people are hitting the roads and the skies to enjoy the three-day weekend away from home. Other people, like Meredith, are afraid to travel and staying home. This week, the gang discusses their traveling fears, including money, stressful itineraries, and dying. Air traffic controllers getting DOGEed isn't helping. (0:00:00) - Intro (news update, Meredith totally doesn't have COVID, in memoriam car window decals, Tesla is the new BMW) (0:26:29) - Sounds of the Week: (0:41:09) - Traveling Songs: "The Passenger" by Iggy Pop "I've Been Everywhere" by Johnny Cash "Highway to Hell" by AC/DC Notes: (0:05:35) (0:05:53) (0:06:22) (0:07:24) (0:08:03) (0:8:55) (0:09:50) (0:10:03) (0:11:00) (0:11:15) (0:12:24) (0:12:55) (030:15) (0:33:01) (0: 47:56) (0:48:33) (0:50:25) (0:51:42) (1:08:45)
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Episode 41: Third Places
05/10/2025
Episode 41: Third Places
Third places are neutral public spaces outside the home (first place) and work (second place) where people can gather and interact, e.g. churches, coffee shops, bars, parks, malls, movie theaters, clubs, etc. Since at least the 1990s, third places have been disappearing, leaving people nowhere to go. This week, the gang explores why third spaces are going away, what the consequences are and what can be done to get back to a world where people just simply hang out. (0:00:00) - Intro (Jay's mouth got probed, to go or not to go to the doctor, news update) (0:26:00) - Sounds of the Week: (0:49:20) - Third places Songs: "In the Mall" by Weezer "Hanging Around" by The Stranglers "Longview" by Green Day Notes: (0:15:05) (0:16:30) (0:17:37) (0:18:06) (0:18:35) (0:19:30) (0:19:40) (0:31:55) (0:32:05) (0:32:23) (0:35:50) (0:35:50) (0:50:45) (0:59:40) (1:00:10) (1:01:55) (1:02:45) (1:04:10) (1:11:36) (1:17:30) (1:18:00)
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Episode 40: Undue Process
04/27/2025
Episode 40: Undue Process
Keeping good on his promise to purge the country of dangerous, illegal immigrants, President Donald Trump has executed a massive deportation campaign. However, Trump's immigration crusade may have gone too far, resulting in a constitutional crisis that has put potentially thousands of innocent people in the crosshairs, many of whom are U.S. citizens. This week, the gang breaks down the federal government's immigration crackdown and why every American should be concerned. (0:00:00) - Intro (Artificial intelligence in Little League baseball, the workplace and Soundtrack of the Week) (0:23:58) - Sounds of the Week: (0:49:54) - Trump's deportation policy Songs: "Eye of the Beholder" by Metallica "Run Like Hell" by Pink Floyd "Aginst Th' Law" by Billy Bragg and Wilco Notes: (0:13:15) (0:16:25) (0:26:30) (0:26:54) It was Big 10, not SEC, universities that signed a (0:28:30) (0:29:25) (0:39:48) (0:42:15) (0:44:05) (0:52:05) (0:53:19) (0:53:34) (0:53:47) (0:54:02) (0:54:45) (0:55:05) (1:05:33) (1:08:49) (1:10:35) (1:12:03) (1:13:12) (1:15:40)
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Episode 39: Doth Protest Too Much
04/13/2025
Episode 39: Doth Protest Too Much
Democracy is on the line, so the left is doing the only thing they know to do: Protest! From the recent "Hands Off" movement to people demonstrating outside Tesla dealerships (and some setting Cybertrucks on fire), people are hitting the streets to express their disapproval of the current president. But are they affecting change? This week, the gang discusses the merits of protesting in the United States and what needs to be done to see action on Capitol Hill Intro (white people love casserole, Metallica road trip, Jay's dentophobia, news update) Sounds of the Week: Songs: "Fight the Power" by Public Enemy "Killing in the Name" by Rage Against the Machine "This Land is Your Land" by Woody Guthrie Notes: (0:12:35) (0:13:13) (0:13:30) (0:22:45) (0:22:45) (0:23:23) (0:34:10) (0:34:40) (0:34:50) (0:43:30) (0:48:28) (0:51:03) (0:52:56) (0:52:56) (0:53:55) (0:54:30) (0:55:25) (0:56:33) (0:57:14) (1:03:55)
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Episode 38: O Brother, Where Art Thou?
03/30/2025
Episode 38: O Brother, Where Art Thou?
Jay and Ty recently discovered they have a half brother that no one knew about for more than 30 years. How did they find out? Ty submitted a 23&Me. Ty sees nothing wrong with obtaining this information, Jay is vehemently against a corporation collecting DNA data and flipping families upside down, and Meredith tries to rein the two in. This week, the gang discusses the topic of data privacy, including how much data they are willing to give up and at what price. 0:00:00 - Intro (Harlem Globetrotters, Ukrainian ballet, Ty finally took time off work, super spicy food is dumb, feeding a cat a pill is a nightmare) 0:25:18 - Sounds of the Week: 0:44:37 - Data privacy Songs: "Inhuman Creation Station" by CKY "I Think I'm a Clone Now" by "Weird Al" Yankovic "Clones (We're All)" by Alice Cooper Notes: (0:38:40) (1:05:24) (1:06:45) (1:07:10) (1:07:50) (1:09:13)
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Special Episode: A Blast from the Past
03/16/2025
Special Episode: A Blast from the Past
The gang is taking a break this week. Instead of leaving you hanging, Ty reached deep into the archives and resurrected an episode of the first edition of SOTW. Listen to Episode 147, where Ty, Jay and Meredith talk about the state of the nation ... in 2013! Needless to say, a few things have changed since then. Strap in for this one. The gang recorded for more than three hours every week back in the day! 0:00:00 - Intro 0:03:34 - Episode 147: You Say You Want a Revolution (Part I) 1:31:03 - Episode 147: You Say You Want a Revolution (Part II) Songs: "Sunday Bloody Sunday" by U2 "Fight the Power" by Public Enemy "Blowin' in the Wind" by Bob Dylan "Glad to be Gay" by Tom Robinson Band "Problems" by Sex Pistols "WInd of Change" by Scorpions
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Episode 37: Cult of Personality Disorder
03/02/2025
Episode 37: Cult of Personality Disorder
Heaven's Gate. The Branch Davidians. Children of God. The Republican party? Liberals and conservatives have been accusing each other of being in a cult since forever, but neither has exhibited all of the classic characteristics and traits ... until now. This week, the gang discusses the idea that Republicans are beginning to cross the line from party cohesiveness and loyalty to straight-up cult status. 0:00:00 - Intro (Meredith and Jay can't deal with winter, 23&Me disrupted Ty and Jay's family) 0:25:15 - Sounds of the Week: 0:51:17 - Cults Songs: "Hypnotize" by System of a Down "I Burn" by Toadies "Brainwashed" by The Kinks Notes: (0:09:40) (0:17:40) (0:17:55) (0:18:00) (0:18:10) (0:19:20) (0:42:51) (0:43:55) (0:56:10) (0:56:10) (0:56:10) (1:04:45) (1:11:37)
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Episode 36: Ameritocracy
02/16/2025
Episode 36: Ameritocracy
Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies are under attack by the federal government in an attempt to restore meritocracy in both the public and private sectors. There's only one problem: Meritocracy is a myth. This week, the gang discusses how the lack of a merit-based system renders policies like DEI necessary to ensure everyone is on a level playing field by circumventing our implicit biases. (0:00:00) - Intro (Super Bowl halftime show, Democratic party implosion continues) (0:24:30) - Sounds of the Week: UFC fighter Bryce Mitchell's pro-Hitler hot take (0:40:33) - Meritocracy Songs: "Country Heroes" by Hank Williams III "Shot You Down" by Audio Bullys and Nancy Sinatra "One Headlight" by The Wallflowers Notes: (0:04:10) (0:07:05) (0:09:40) (0:09:40) (0:12:00) (0:13:30) (0:14:00) (0:18:37) (0:19:03) (0:19:09) (0:19:45) (0:20:04) (0:20:10) (0:32:00) (0:36:30) (0:36:30) (0:36:53) (0:42:42) (0:43:26) (0:45:20) (0:45:40)
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Episode 35: Dem's the Breaks
02/02/2025
Episode 35: Dem's the Breaks
In a special edition of the show, Ty, Jay and Meredith are joined by Geoff Gerling, a Missouri Democratic party officer and former SOTW co-host. Geoff returns to the show to discuss where Democrats went wrong heading into Election Day and how the party can bounce back. The gang gets deep into the weeds, including political messaging, who will lead the Democratic party and why the show "The West Wing" led to second term for Donald Trump. 0:00:00 - Short intro and straight into what happened with the Dems 0:27:58 - Role of communications/messaging in politics and the Democratic party 0:55:38 - Democrats' path forward Songs: "Loser" by Beck "Oops!... I Did It Again" by Britney Spears "Won't Get Fooled Again" by The Who Notes: (0:15:00) (0:18:40) (0:21:45) (0:29:40) (0:29:40) (0:29:40) (0:29:40) (0:37:58) (0:42:37) (0:45:20) (0:45:20) revealed that Republicans love "The Walking Dead" WAY more than Democrats (0:45:53) (0:46:30) (0:46:30) The quote Ty was referring to was "Mass movements can rise and spread without belief in a god, but never without a belief in a devil" by Eric Hoffer, philosopher and social critic (0:47:30) (0:55:55) Arkansas . Recreational marijuana is still illegal in the state. (0:59:37) (0:59:39) in the 2024 Missouri governor race (1:00:25) (1:10:50)
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Episode 34: Vigilante Justice
01/19/2025
Episode 34: Vigilante Justice
UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was assassinated in broad daylight in the middle of New York City. Rather than decry a cold-blooded killing, Americans seemed to be indifferent at minimum, with many publicly praising the murderer, Luigi Mangione. Meanwhile, Daniel Penny, a man acquitted of killing an unarmed homeless man acting crazy on a New York City subway, was invited to watch the Army-Navy football game with President-elect Donald Trump. Aside from the obvious question of "WTF is going on in NYC?" the other question to ask is "If or when is vigilante justice okay?" This week, the gang gets into a heated exchange as not everyone agrees that taking matters into your own hands is a good thing. (0:00:00) - Intro (Chick-fil-A sucks - Chinese food good, Snowmageddon 2025) (0:23:55) - Sounds of the Week: (0:39:38) - Vigilante justice Songs: "I Hope You Die" by Bloodhound Gang "Everything About You" by Ugly Kid Joe "Head Like a Hole" by Nine Inch Nails Notes: (0:04:15) (0:19:30) (0:27:45) (0:28:25) (0:28:50) (0:29:33) (0:29:33) (0:29:33) (0:29:33) (0:29:40) (0:40:45) (0:40:45) (0:41:35) (0:41:53) (0:46:05) (0:53:20) (0:59:17) (1:00:00)
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Episode 33: SOTW Project 2025
01/05/2025
Episode 33: SOTW Project 2025
It's the first episode of 2025, which means it's time to set some goals! Inspired by the conservative think tank Heritage Foundation's Project 2025 manifesto that President-elect Donald Trump totally, unequivocally, in no way knows anything about, the gang has created their personal Project 2025 (sans an authoritarian overthrowing of the government to force far Christian-right ideals). It's like a New Year's resolution, but way deeper. (0:00:00) Intro (Jay and Ty are sabotaging Meredith's relationship, finding a new home, news updates) (0:20:10) Sounds of the Week: (0:40:50) Project 2025: SOTW version Songs: "This Will Be My Year" by Semisonic "New Year's Day" by U2 "It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)" by R.E.M. Notes: (0:06:45) Per Jay's request, here's the link (0:10:55) (0:11:25) (0:12:50) (0:13:00) (0:14:00) (0:14:35) (0:22:30) (0:24:48) (0:25:00) (0:26:10) (0:26:32) (0:28:00) (0:32:35) (0:35:13)
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Episode 32: The Gift That Keeps On Giving
12/22/2024
Episode 32: The Gift That Keeps On Giving
It's the Christmas Episode! The gang closes out 2024 by giving each other symbolic gifts. Since no one is actually getting any of these gifts, there's no limit to what the gift can be. In typical SOTW fashion, things get weird and awkward quickly, with a Shyamalan twist at the end. Happy holidays! We'll see you next year! (0:00:00) - Intro (School district boundaries make no sense, return-to-work policies are dumb, endoscopies are no big deal, news updates) (0:22:50) - Sounds of the Week: (0:44:04) - SOTW gift exchange Songs: "Run Rudolph Run" by Lemmy Kilmister, Billy F. Gibbons and Dave Grohl "Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight)" by Ramones "Christmastime" by The Smashing Pumpkins Notes: (0:11:55) (0:12:30) (0:17:00) (0:18:00) (0:29:00) (0:31:00) The insurance middlemen Ty was referring to are called "pharmacy benefit managers" (0:31:10) (0:35:10) (0:35:15)
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Episode 31: Sexy Time
12/08/2024
Episode 31: Sexy Time
A porn star professor. Links to porn sites on kids' toy boxes. Someone got their own costume line at Spirit Halloween for spittin' on that thang. There were some sexy headlines this year. Is America getting out of its Puritan phase of sex and embracing its sexuality? This week, the gang talks about their relationship with sex and whether or not Americans' attitudes on the topic are becoming more liberated. (0:00:00) - Intro (Meredith is fasting, Jay is a Trekkie now, the gang can't handle marijuana, updates) (0:28:22) - Sounds of the Week: (0:48:10) - Let's talk about sex Songs: "A.D.I.D.A.S." by Korn "Fuck Her Gently" by Tenacious D "Fuck the Pain Away" by Peaches Notes: (0:12:20) (0:12:20) (0:14:05) (0:15:25) (0:16:50) (0:17:50) (0:19:00) (0:21:30) (0:23:09) (0:28:30) (0:33:45) (0:34:50) (0:35:30) (0:48:40) (0:48:55) (0:49:35) The top 10 countries with the most are Grenada, England/Wales, Pakistan, Botswana, Lesotho, Sweden, Panama, Eswatini, South Africa and Iceland. The United States is pretty high up there, while India is ranked relatively low. It's worth noting that these statistics are based on reported rapes, which can vary greatly from one country to another. (0:53:50) (1:08:45)
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Episode 30: Thanks for Nothing
11/24/2024
Episode 30: Thanks for Nothing
It's Thanksgiving week! While Americans stuff their faces with an offensive amount of food and trample over each other to get 20% off a 75-inch 4K ultra-high-def TV, it is also a time to reflect on what we are thankful for. That is exactly what the gang does this week. Ty, Jay and Meredith take a break from their default mode of resigned cynicism (well, kind of) and dig deep to find things in their life for which they are thankful. (0:00:00) - Intro (Trump cabinet/staff nominees, Twitter vs. Bluesky) (0:22:46) - Sounds of the Week: (0:39:10) - Giving thanks Songs: "Cherry Pie" by Warrant "Custard Pie" by Led Zeppelin "Pecan Pie" by Golden Smog Notes: (0:02:30) (0:03:00) (0:03:30) (0:03:30) (0:03:45) (0:03:55) (0:04:10) (0:04:20) (0:04:25) (0:04:37) (0:04:55) (0:05:27) (0:05:50) (0:07:20) (0:07:43) (0:08:47) (0:09:45) (0:09:45) (0:09:56) (0:10:00) (0:10:24) (0:12:40) (0:12:40) (0:22:55) (0:24:50) (0:28:55) (0:30:00) (0:32:15) (0:40:50) (0:46:35) (0:50:15)
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Episode 29: Election Day 2024
11/10/2024
Episode 29: Election Day 2024
What was supposed to be a tight race ended up being a total massacre of the Democratic party, with Donald Trump winning a second term as president and Republicans taking control of the House and the Senate. Voters dismissed Democrats' claims of fascism, including the party's own base. This week, the gang discusses how we got here and what to do next. (0:00:00) - Intro (Nosferatu vs. Batman, Ron Reagan vs. Ronald Reagan, business conferences are for getting drunk, Ty is the world's first Grandpa Ty) (0:22:28) - Sounds of the Week: (0:36:55) - Election Day 2024 Songs: "Youth Against Fascism" by Sonic Youth "All You Fascists" by Billy Bragg & Wilco "Nazi Punks Fuck Off (In God We Trust, Inc)" by Dead Kennedys Notes: (0:15:00) (0:25:30) The name of the old country singer Ty was talking about is Lee Greenwood, known for the song "God Bless the U.S.A." (0:27:35) (0:29:40) (0:38:04) (0:38:50) (0:40:30) (0:41:45) (0:44:30) (0:46:25) (0:55:25) (0:55:33) (0:55:33) (1:05:25) (1:05:25) (1:06:30)
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Episode 28: Fear Factor
10/27/2024
Episode 28: Fear Factor
It's the Halloween episode! Fear is always a hot topic this time of year, so Ty, Meredith and Jay will tackle it head-on. This year, the gang will bring in the spooky season by talking about what they are afraid of now that they are all middle-aged. Conversely, they will also discuss what they feared in their early adult years but no longer bothers them today. Fear is always in us, but changes over time. (0:00:00) Intro (News update, the gang goes to the symphony, "history" of Nosferatu, Jay is going to Florida) (0:19:07) Sounds of the Week: (0:44:04) Fear Songs: "Lost Boys" by The 69 Eyes "Nosferatu" by Blue Oyster Cult "Night of the Vampire" by Roky Erickson Notes: (0:03:40) (0:07:45) (0:07:45) (0:07:45) (0:07:45) (0:10:30) (0:11:55) (0:23:30) (0:24:00) Holy shit! He's actually an honorary director of the foundation. (0:26:00) (0:27:00) (0:35:15) (0:44:44)
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Episode 27: Living in the Past
10/13/2024
Episode 27: Living in the Past
Barring any major trauma, most people have fond memories of their childhood up to early adulthood. We look back at those years through rose-colored glasses, often ignoring the negative aspects of the past. Nostalgia can be a healthy way to cope with the present, but at what point does it cross the line into escapism, denialism or history revisionism? Ty, Meredith and Jay reminisce about being young in the 90s while trying to keep their feet firmly planted in 2024. (0:00:00) - Intro (Meredith: KC socialite, October baseball is exhausting, news updates about TikTok, AI and sports gambling) (0:16:38) - Sounds of the Week: (0:35:26) - Nostalgia Songs: "I Just Want You" by Ozzy Osbourne "Trigger Happy Jack" by Poe "Zoot Suit Riot" by Cherry Poppin' Daddies Notes: (0:06:02) (0:07:34) (0:08:15) (0:08:35) (0:09:45) (0:21:50) (0:21:50) (0:22:35) (0:22:45) (0:23:20) Marjorie Taylore Greene tweets about the government controlling , then , and in the following days. (0:24:03) (0:38:19) (0:38:19) (0:50:15) (0:52:50)
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Episode 26: Know When to Fold 'Em
09/29/2024
Episode 26: Know When to Fold 'Em
America's pastime, baseball, is being replaced with a new favorite pastime: betting on baseball. Less than 10 years ago, you had to go to Las Vegas to bet on sports. Today, three-quarters of states allow online sports betting, turning the industry into a multibillion-dollar behemoth. But what are the real costs of legalized gambling at your fingertips? This week, the gang discusses gambling and whether or not unfettered access to sports betting should be allowed. If gambling has become a problem for you or for someone you know, call 1-800-GAMBLER (426-2537) to seek free, confidential, 24/7 problem gambling assistance. (0:00:00) - Intro (National Podcast Day, Jay almost died, Darrell McClanahan, idiots posts dumb tweet) (0:21:10) - Sounds of the Week: (0:42:20) - Gambling Songs: "Train of Consequences" by Megadeth "Ace of Spades" by Motörhead "The Gambler" by Kenny Rogers Notes: (0:14:50) (0:16:24) (0:16:50) Also worth noting: The official Libertarian Party (0:17:20) (0:23:35) (0:27:55) (0:29:10) (0:31:30) (0:31:35) (0:31:40) (0:33:15) (0:33:15) (0:37:45) (0:42:35) (0:43:18) (0:43:50) (0:44:08) (0:44:25) (0:44:50) (0:53:45) (0:55:45)
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Episode 25: The Right to Remain Silent
09/15/2024
Episode 25: The Right to Remain Silent
DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the future beliefs of the people saying them, and therefore cannot be used against them after recording. With that out of the way, this episode dives into accountability in the 21st century. Everyone is airing their thoughts, opinions and beliefs on social media, podcasts and comment sections, putting their lives in the public domain reserved for only public figures before the internet. However, what we say is not free of consequences, a fact that the average person is finding out for the first time the hard way. Is this new heightened level of accountability good or bad, and is it sustainable? (0:00:00) - Intro (remembering 9/11, fall festivals commence, contentious whiskey tasting debate) (0:18:47) - Sounds of the Week: (0:41:51) - Accountability in the 21st century Songs: "Hush" by Deep Purple "Enjoy the Silence" by Depeche Mode "Don't Speak" by No Doubt Notes: of Tyreek Hill's police encounter (0:23:55) (0:25:23) on Tyreek Hill police encounter (0:28:10) (0:42:25) The politician Meredith refers to is Darrell McClanahan, who ran for governor during the primary election. McClanahan, an "honorary KKK member," remained on the ballot . McClanahan lost the primary, but it's worth noting that out of nine candidates, , meaning three people got fewer votes than someone who is best known for his ties to the KKK. (0:51:30) shows Instagram, YouTube and TikTok as top three social media sites for Gen Z. has YouTube, TikTok and Snapchat, with a third study indicating Snapchat, TikTok and Instagram has the top three. Bottom line: Gen Z is not on Facebook and Twitter. (0:53:45)
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Episode 24: Haterade
09/01/2024
Episode 24: Haterade
The amount of hate on social media has ramped up over the years, especially during an election year, but has the amount of contempt and disdain for one another bled over into the physical world? Jay seems to think so. This week, the gang talks about whether or not cities across the United States are turning into New York City in Ghostbusters 2, with everyone feeding on each other's hate and general negativity. (0:00:00) - Intro (AI update, , , fall sports) (0:17:15) - Sounds of the Week: (0:39:27) - Mean girls ... and boys Songs: "Steve Polychronopolous" by Adam Sandler "My Friend of Misery" by Metallica "Asshole" by Denis Leary Notes: (0:04:10) (0:05:13) (SB1047) - bill in California regulating AI. One the same day of recording, the bill and awaits final approval from Gov. Gavin Newsome (0:05:45) during the Democratic National Convention (0:25:05) (0:39:30) (0:45:55) showing Jesse Walters talk about DNC with a split screen contradicting what he's saying in real time (0:45:12) (0:58:28) (1:03:00) (1:03:30) (1:03:30) (1:14:35) (1:14:45) (1:14:45)
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Episode 23: Virtual Insanity
08/18/2024
Episode 23: Virtual Insanity
Artificial intelligence is evolving faster than any technology in human history, leaving governments and the general public scrambling to figure out how to deal with it. Although current AI-generated images can't even get hands right, the technology will soon be able to create photos, text, video and audio that not even the trained eye will be able to detect as fake. What are the consequences of AI, and how much should companies be held accountable for how the technology is used? (0:00:00) - Intro (update on , August is the worst month) (0:16:25) - Sounds of the Week: (0:42:40) - Artificial intelligence Songs: "More Than Machines" by Bush "Naked in Front of the Computer" by Faith No More "Virtual Insanity" by Jamiroquai Notes: Freakonomics podcast: (0:03:25) The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe (0:05:30) (0:06:00) (0:07:20) (0:20:00) (0:21:15) (0:21:24) (0:21:46) (0:22:00) (0:24:05) (0:24:35) (0:25:20) (0:43:00) (0:48:15) The YouTube channel of Beavis singing 90s alt-rock songs no longer exists, probably due to copyright infringement. However, there are now at least two websites where you can create your own AI-generated Beavis cover songs, which you can find and . (0:50:35) (0:51:45) (0:57:00) (1:03:10) where he interviews the producers, engineers and other behind-the-scenes geniuses of the music industry (1:08:15) and (1:09:00)
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Episode 22: Going for Gold
08/04/2024
Episode 22: Going for Gold
The summer Olympics are underway! Every four years, the world comes together in unity for more than two weeks as countries show off their elite athletes who compete in more than 300 events in more than 30 sports. How does one become an Olympian? Child exploitation. This week, the gang explores the idea that becoming a professional athlete in the 21st century requires sacrificing your childhood, a socially acceptable phenomena that is not present in other areas of life (e.g. academia) in modern-day Western culture and society. (0:00:00) - Intro (Update to SCOTUS topic, Crazy Facebook Republican Militia Guy is back) (0:20:35) - Sounds of the Week: (0:38:52) - Elite athleticism and child exploitation Songs: "The Bronze" by Queens of the Stone Age "Silver" by Echo & the Bunnymen "Gold" by Spandau Ballet Notes: (0:03:55) (0:06:12) (0:06:55) (0:16:10) (0:23:20) Donald Trump was invited to the National Association of Black Journalists convention every year from 2016 through 2020, (0:25:10) (0:26:40) (0:27:15) , which allows school districts to establish volunteer programs for chaplains to address mental health (0:28:45) (0:33:50) The Larry Nassar documentary Meredith talks about is (0:41:00) (0:55:25) (0:57:40)
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Episode 21: A Grim (Reaper) Presidential Election
07/21/2024
Episode 21: A Grim (Reaper) Presidential Election
Former President Donald Trump was centimeters away from death after a failed assassination attempt during his campaign rally in Butler, Pa. In the immediate aftermath, there were calls for unity and to turn the down the temperature in the political environment ... that never happened. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden appears to have little chance in winning the election and refuses to end his bid for a second term despite growing support from voters and Democrat leaders to do so. Needless to say, the 2024 presidential campaign is a clusterf***. The gang discusses how the assassination attempt may reshape the election and comes up with a winning solution for the Democratic party. 0:00:00 - Intro (a call for unity with the National Anthem, Jay is unemployed) 0:16:14 - Attempted assassination of Donald Trump 0:46:10 - President Joe Biden's bid for reelection Songs: "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" by Pat Benatar "Hey Man Nice Shot" by Filter "Bullet in the Head" by Rage Against the Machine Notes: (0:03:50) Ingrid Andress (0:06:10) (0:07:00) (0:07:30) (0:19:40) (0:20:40) (0:21:00) Jay claims the vast majority of Americans do not fall in line with Republican policies. Data on that claim are mixed. A (from a progressive think tank) revealed broad support for certain progressive policies. A revealed wide support for certain progressive programs. Ten years ago, two researchers published a paper suggesting that although . However, a more recent revealed that certain Republican policies are winning. There is no data supporting claims that a supermajority of Americans support Democrat policies (in general) over Republican policies. A about the attempted assassination of Donald Trump and conspiracy theories in general (0:28:30) Rep. Mike Collins, R-Ga., for assassination attempt, followed by another . (0:32:30) Rep. Marjorie Taylore Greene, R-Ga., blaming the left. Rep. Mike Waltz, R-Fla, by Departmet of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas (0:32:30) Shortly after the podcast was record, about the Secret Service denying requests for more security at Trump events in the two years leading up to the assassination attempt. Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, and Republican vice president nominee (0:34:35) (0:37:00) (0:37:50) Justice Clarence Thomas sets the stage to dismiss Trump's classified documents case in Georgia in his in the Supreme Court's presidential immunity case (0:38:30) (0:48:55) (1:01:53) (1:02:30)
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Episode 20: SCOTUS v. Democracy
07/07/2024
Episode 20: SCOTUS v. Democracy
The United States Supreme Court just concluded its latest term, and it was a doozy. Although a decision giving the president broad immunity from criminal prosecution took the spotlight, other decisions from the conservative majority sent shockwaves through the legal community, including stripping power from federal agencies and giving that power to the courts. The gang breaks down how the Supreme Court has gone from nearly 250 years of stabilizing the country to devolving into another tool for a political faction marred by corruption and starving for more power. 0:00:00 - Intro (Meredith breaks diet for America, Ty's adventure in DEEP rural Missouri, Pride Month update, Project 2025 update) 0:15:10 - Sounds of the Week: 0:32:09 - Supreme Court of the United States Songs: "I Fought the Law" by The Clash "Tear the Fascists Down" by Woody Guthrie "If You Tolerate This Your Children Will Be Next" by Manic Street Preachers Notes: (0:04:00) (0:09:00) (0:11:00) (0:27:15) (0:32:55) (0:33:20) (0:37:20) (0:37:20) (0:39:15) (0:39:15) (0:43:30) (1:01:55)
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Episode 19: Pride and Prejudice
06/23/2024
Episode 19: Pride and Prejudice
June is almost over, so let's talk about Pride Month and Juneteenth. This month is supposed to be a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community while also setting aside a day to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. Ironically, it's also a month where racism and homophobia is cranked to 11. The gang - three straight, white people - discuss why the LGBTQ+ community is still a triggering topic for millions of Americans and how a vocal minority is shaping government policy. 0:00:00 - Intro (Jay quit his job and getting out of Missouri, Ty learned how to fix stuff, Meredith is addicted to cold plunges) 0:15:05 - Sounds of the Week: 0:37:00 - Pride Month in 2024 Songs: "Hell Bent for Leather" by Judas Priest "Losing My Religion" by R.E.M. "Rebel Rebel" by David Bowie Notes: Meredith talks about cold plunges. Since this is a new trend, there is little research on the subject. Early research suggests some benefits to cold plunges. However, the research is preliminary and far from conclusive. Read more about cold plunges: , , , , , (0:09:55) In case your confused about what Juneteenth is all about, check out . (0:24:40) (0:25:30) Valentina Gomez's bizarre about Pride Month (0:28:30) (0:28:50) (0:37:17) (0:38:40) A simple , including the Stonewall Uprising of 1969 and presidential recognition beginning in 1999. showing increasing acceptance over last few decades (0:45:05) (0:45:05) (0:47:20) (0:47:20)
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