The Left Hook
Hosted by Mark Bland, The Left Hook is a current affairs and pop culture show with a political twist. Weekly the guys interview actors, writers, artist and a revolving cast of characters to bring you multiple views of some of the most controversial and engaging topics of our time.
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Left Hook - Rotten Tomatoes
10/19/2026
Left Hook - Rotten Tomatoes
Mark Bland and Jason Kull turn the spotlight on their own side of the aisle in this episode of The Left Hook, challenging Missouri and St. Louis-area Democrats to stop overlooking opportunities to reach conservative and independent voters. The hosts argue that their presence on Fox News-affiliated radio offers candidates a chance to speak beyond the Democratic base—and that avoiding those conversations leaves potential votes on the table. Drawing on past interviews and their involvement in local political debates, Bland and Kull make the case for more direct engagement, less political gatekeeping, and a willingness to take a message into unfamiliar territory. The conversation then shifts to national politics as the hosts criticize JD Vance’s remarks about Abdul El-Sayed and discuss El-Sayed’s sharp “Wolverine” response. They argue that Democrats should make room for candidates with different backgrounds and approaches, while accusing Republicans of applying selective standards of accountability. To close, Bland and Kull dissect a clip of Donald Trump celebrating the financial benefits of high oil prices, questioning who actually profits when Americans pay more at the pump. Throughout, the episode mixes pointed political commentary, irreverent humor, and a central challenge: winning over voters requires talking to people who don’t already agree with you.
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The Left Hook - Artificial Intelligence
10/14/2026
The Left Hook - Artificial Intelligence
On this week’s episode of The Left Hook, Mark Bland and Jason Kull took on President Trump’s incendiary Truth Social post about Minnesota, in which he claimed the state was being “taken over” by Somali immigrants, painted Minneapolis as a war zone, called Tim Walz an “incompetent thief,” and urged Minnesotans to “fight back.” Bland and Kull broke down why that kind of rhetoric is dangerous: it demonizes an entire community, inflames an already tense political moment, and sets up the idea that federal force should be welcomed into Democratic-led cities. They also connected it to Trump’s comments suggesting Los Angeles and San Diego could be “taken out” as a “small price to pay,” arguing that he keeps testing how far he can push authoritarian language before anyone stops him. From there, the hosts covered the Arlington County lawsuit over the White House’s massive construction project near Arlington Cemetery, the Justice Department’s claim that Trump has final say over settlements, and the reported plan to live-stream an execution at Fort Hood—moves they see as part of a broader effort to normalize cruelty and consolidate power. Bland and Kull also hit the GOP’s healthcare agenda, the fight over the Affordable Care Act, Trump’s obsession with “superintelligence,” the Epstein files, and the way Republican candidates are getting dragged down by statements they cannot defend. And because it is still The Left Hook, they made room for the bizarre viral trend of boiling and eating whole zucchini, the return of “Chester Cheks,” and a look at the baby-name trends expected to take over in 2027. Catch the full show Saturdays at 9 a.m. Central on Fox News affiliates, and find everything at MarkBland.net.
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The Left Hook - Super Beets and Super Powers
10/07/2026
The Left Hook - Super Beets and Super Powers
The show opens with Mark Bland and Jason Kull and a quick post-season autopsy of the Cubs' loss to the Padres — Pete Crow-Armstrong vs. Fernando Tatís, and the unwritten rule that you never root for a division rival like the Brewers — before pivoting to the economy. Mark argues that voters who pulled the lever in 2024 expecting cheaper gas and groceries "on day one" got the opposite, pointing to a $41 tab at Steak 'n Shake for three people and $100-plus bills at mid-tier sit-down chains as evidence that prices have outrun promises. From there he takes aim at pressure on the Fed and Jerome Powell, the "alpha-male testosterone" branding coming out of Pete Hegseth's War Department (complete with Lincoln Memorial photo ops featuring Dana White and the Paul brothers), and the rebranding of AI as "superintelligence," which he calls the tell of someone who doesn't actually understand the technology. He also riffs — half seriously — on relocating the capital to the center of the country for security reasons, and makes the case for an age cap on the presidency, sharing personal stories about his seventy-nine-year-old father The centerpiece is a breakdown of Missouri Sen. Eric Schmitt's Senate subcommittee grilling of former special counsel Jack Smith, where Schmitt pressed Smith on whether he'd attended a Warriors–Hawks game in Atlanta the day after the Fani Willis–Nathan Wade revelations, accused him of perjury, and closed by calling him a "total dirtbag." After Sen. Amy Klobuchar insisted the witness actually be shown the exhibit, Smith explained he'd attended a Maryland–Iowa women's basketball game to see Caitlin Clark — Hawkeyes, not Hawks. Mark calls it a failed "coming-out party" and a lesson in performative politics, comparing it to Josh Hawley's January 6th fist-pump. The back half lightens up with a rundown of this year's trending Halloween costumes (Freaky Nikki, Bad Bunny's halftime show, Taylor Swift and friends at the Knicks game, The Odyssey, Chad Powers, K-pop Demon Hunters, Dolly Parton, Olivia Rodrigo, Spider-Man — and a protest over Michael Jackson landing all the way down at No. 18), before Mark closes with his standing prediction that Republicans could effectively send Congress home through the midterms, leaving Trump to govern by executive order in what he's long described as "a coup in slow motion." Catch old and new episodes at markbland.net.
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The Left Hook - 56 - Midnight Attack Drones
10/01/2026
The Left Hook - 56 - Midnight Attack Drones
On this week’s episode of The Left Hook, Jason Kull and I went after Trump’s decision to pull White House press pool credentials from CNN, MSNBC, ProPublica, Politico, and other outlets. We called it what it is: thin-skinned, authoritarian behavior from an administration that seemingly only wants coverage from people willing to applaud. Less than 48 hours later, they announced “Trump TV” — which Jason couldn’t even get to load on YouTube during the show. Then the whole thing backfired at the unveiling of the new White House helipad, where the gutted press pool left one Newsmax crew without a working microphone and the event was barely covered. We also talked about the economic squeeze Americans are dealing with, from $5.15 gas in Chicago and diesel nearing $8 to the reality of people living paycheck to paycheck. I’m old enough to remember when a $2.99 Denny’s Grand Slam and a free birthday breakfast didn’t feel like folklore. In the second half, we took apart Ben Shapiro’s suggestion that young Americans who can’t afford to live here should just move somewhere else. Keep telling frustrated 18-to-25-year-olds to leave, and don’t act surprised when they spend the next two decades voting against people like J.D. Vance and Mike Johnson. We also had a good laugh at Tommy Tuberville’s bizarre claim that airline workers and pilots are “furries,” Trump’s claim that crime in D.C. has fallen to zero, and the White House obsession with gold décor, ballrooms, and armed drones. We also ran through a Substack list of the five U.S. regions to avoid if society collapses — the Northeast, California, the Southwest desert, Florida, and the industrial Midwest — which an AI tool rated as 60 percent real risk analysis and 40 percent doom-porn. We wrapped things up debating the best sitcom friend group: I picked Friends, Jason picked The Office, and yes, he was wrong. Catch past episodes and stay up to date at MarkBland.net.
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The Left Hook - Who is Number One?
09/23/2026
The Left Hook - Who is Number One?
Grab your coffee, because Mark Bland and Jason Kull are back with a week's worth of things to be mad about. They start at the gas pump, where diesel is pushing $8 in California and the Iran war is taking the blame. Then it's on to Trump's rally joke about holding back FEMA money from flood-hit North Carolina ("I'm not sending it... just kidding"), which got the awkward silence it deserved. They play JD Vance warning of an economic crisis if we leave the war, and Marjorie Taylor Greene's viral rant about diesel prices, which is a sentence nobody expected to write. They also lay out why they think Netanyahu has had too much of Trump's ear, and give their take on the Ed Sheeran and Macklemore blowup: let the concerts just be concerts. Then comes the question in the title. With Mark Carney in Brussels and Canada cozying up to the EU, have we lost our "number one" spot, starting with our own continent? Along the way they get into why Canada's health care makes our "best system in the world" line harder to sell, and some Missouri roasting of Rep. Ann Wagner and Secretary of State Denny Hoskins over their loyalty to Trump. In the middle there's a break for a very real story about Rutgers researchers who built a 3D-printed toilet for mosquitoes, and yes, it's for science. They wrap with a midterm pep talk and a reminder that every episode, old and new, lives at markbland.net.
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Left Hook - 54- Concepts of a Payment
09/15/2026
Left Hook - 54- Concepts of a Payment
Hosts Mark Bland and Jason Kull kicked off *The Left Hook* with some lighthearted baseball talk about the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals before quickly diving into politics. Their top headline was Fox News host Jesse Watters, who admitted President Trump's campaign promise of $5,000 checks for every American likely wouldn't happen. Watters infamously compared the empty promise to "a woman showing her bra" to keep a man interested, leading the hosts to call his remarks gross, misogynistic, and proof that Trump's allies assume the American people are gullible enough to fall for it. Bland and Kull ripped the check proposal as a blatantly dishonest campaign bribe, pointing out there's no way to afford roughly $1.3 trillion in payments and that Trump's claims about tariffs funding them simply don't add up. They mocked the idea that Trump could blame Congress if the money never arrived, calling the promise a desperate "Hail Mary" as his legal troubles continue to pile up. The hosts argued that openly trying to buy people's votes was dangerous for democracy, joking that if it came down to bidding, Democrats could just promise Americans $6,000 instead. Shifting to the bigger political picture, the duo expressed frustration with House Speaker Mike Johnson for sending Congress home for recess, warning lawmakers could remain out until after the midterms and leave President Trump free to run unchecked with executive orders. They stressed the importance of Democrats flipping at least one chamber to provide a necessary check on his power. After their political rant, the hosts lightened the mood with a Reddit list of "five things every American should be able to do," cracking jokes about opening beer bottles, riding mechanical bulls, and other rowdy American staples before wrapping up the show.
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Left Hook - 53 - Where's the Beef 2026
09/10/2026
Left Hook - 53 - Where's the Beef 2026
Mark Bland and Jason Kull open with a genuinely fun segment: Mark joined the American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) and took his son to Daredevil Days at the newly rebranded Mid-America Adventure (formerly Six Flags St. Louis). Highlights included a backstage tour of Mr. Freeze, standing two feet from the track at launch speed, and a "post-touch" — feeling the coaster's vibration through the support beam. Park president Dan Snider fielded Q&A on the rebrand and ongoing DC licensing negotiations. Plus Family membership secured. Then it gets sharp. Mike Johnson went on camera calling Thomas Massie's claim that Congress would recess until after the midterms "stupid" — then did exactly that, pulling the House out two weeks early. The hosts argue the play is deliberate: run out the clock through midterms, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's until the new session starts, keeping Congress frozen while Trump governs unchecked. The suspected motive: keeping the Epstein Files Transparency Act 2 buried before November. From there: imported Argentine beef that China already rejected for antibiotic contamination, USDA gutting, soybean-bailout déjà vu, and a broader indictment — Trump has dragged the country backward while allies quietly replace us in global trade. Finally, Mark's plea to vote left-of-center in 2028 so the next president can run the "yeah, sorry about that guy" world tour.
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The Left Hook - Lake America
09/01/2026
The Left Hook - Lake America
Hosts Mark Bland and Jason Kull opened their St. Louis-based show with a discussion about local news: the rebranding of Six Flags St. Louis to "Mid-America Adventure" under new parent company Enchanted Parks. The hosts covered changes to season passes, pricing, and the popular "Fright Fest" Halloween event, noting that entry will now cost extra beyond a season pass. They joked that St. Louis residents will likely keep calling it "Six Flags" regardless of the name change, comparing it to how locals still refer to the Riverport concert venue by its original name despite multiple corporate buyouts. The hosts then pivoted to sharp criticism of President Trump, using the "renaming" theme to mock reported efforts to rename bodies of water like Lake Ontario. They accused the administration of grift, questioned Trump's mental fitness and work ethic, and criticized his handling of NATO, the UN, and foreign policy—while advocating for universal healthcare. They also discussed former ICE/Border Patrol figure Greg Bovino, who claimed in a Tucker Carlson interview that the administration pulled his security detail because they wanted him dead; the hosts dismissed this, arguing he simply no longer works for Trump and faces public backlash for his controversial tenure. They further criticized adviser Natalie Harp, alleged internal White House dysfunction, and a story about Trump reportedly separating himself from his military aide on a flight. In the final segments, the hosts lightened the tone with a discussion of "rude" guest behaviors based on a HuffPost article—covering things like snooping, overstaying, and disrespecting house rules—sharing personal anecdotes. They closed by heavily criticizing Health Secretary RFK Jr., blaming him for a resurgence of measles and other previously eradicated diseases, and attacked Trump's agricultural and trade policies, arguing that tariffs and deals with countries like Argentina and China were hurting American cattle farmers. They also paid tribute to entertainers Dolly Parton and Tim Curry before signing off.
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Left Hook - The Presidents Shadow
08/26/2026
Left Hook - The Presidents Shadow
On this episode of *The Left Hook*, host Mark Bland and co-host Jason Kull kick off the show by breaking down recent media controversies and political gridlock. They analyze a tense CNN panel exchange between host Abby Phillip and conservative pundit Scott Jennings, criticizing Jennings for what they see as dishonest deflections and double standards regarding Donald Trump and his controversial aide, Natalie Harp. Bland and Kull expand their political commentary to address the broader state of governance, sharply criticizing Speaker Mike Johnson and the Republican-led Congress for failing to address everyday kitchen-table issues like inflation and gas prices, while also pointing out poor conditions faced by deployed U.S. Navy sailors. Shifting gears, Mark shares details from his recent trip to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, sparking a passionate music discussion with Jason. Both hosts argue that rock pioneer Chuck Berry—the "Godfather of Rock and Roll"—deserves much more prominent recognition and museum space than he is given, especially when compared to figures like Elvis Presley. Their conversation wanders through various exhibits, from Paul McCartney and Wings to the "Queens of Punk," as well as iconic memorabilia from artists like Michael Jackson and Kurt Cobain, with both hosts sharing their appreciation for classic rock, vintage formats like 8-track tapes, and upcoming live tours. In the final portion of the broadcast, the hosts briefly critique Trump's focus on vanity construction projects and the consumer impact of tariffs before transitioning into a humorous segment on modern concert culture. Reviewing a bit by comedian Dan Reagan, Mark and Jason discuss what it would take to lure Gen Xers back to live shows, advocating for practical perks such as physical souvenir tickets, free parking, actual chairs, cleaner restrooms, and fines for bands that start late. Bland and Kull close out the episode by urging their audience to stay informed, fact-check the news, and vote for accountable leadership in upcoming elections.
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The Left Hook - The Same Page
08/18/2026
The Left Hook - The Same Page
In this episode of The Left Hook, host Mark Bland—a self-described liberal broadcasting on Fox-affiliated stations—is joined by guest co-host Andy Echele, a conservative-leaning friend and veteran. After an extended discussion about Bland's family trip to Cedar Point amusement park in Sandusky, Ohio (where he was sent to a "quiet room" after complaining about outdated bathrooms at a park making $1-2 million per day), and a visit to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, the conversation turns to politics. Bland asks Eccle to assess Trump's presidency, and Eccle rates him a 7 out of 10, saying he's "better than Biden" but "not the best by any means." Eccle advocates for an isolationist foreign policy—pulling back foreign aid, stopping the "big brother" role abroad, and reinvesting domestically in education and healthcare—while acknowledging the U.S. has the world's greatest military due to outsized defense spending. The central political debate centers on a Trump audio clip in which the president dismisses concerns about affordability, calling Democrats "con men" and telling the press he doesn't "want to hear about the affordability." Both Bland and Eccle push back on this stance—Eccle, a single man spending over $275 monthly on groceries alone, agrees affordability matters deeply regardless of party. Bland argues that Trump's dismissiveness on kitchen-table economic issues could hurt down-ballot Republicans in future elections, potentially costing them the House and Senate. The two find common ground that no president should tell Americans they don't want to hear about saving money, illustrating the show's cross-partisan format where a liberal host and conservative guest can agree on pocketbook issues even while disagreeing on broader presidential performance.
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Left Hook - The Fauci Diaries
08/07/2026
Left Hook - The Fauci Diaries
On The Left Hook, hosts Mark Bland and Jason Kull deliver an irreverent, left-leaning roundup of the week’s political news. They focus heavily on Dr. Anthony Fauci’s congressional appearance, arguing that Republican questioning was largely performative and politically motivated, while criticizing efforts to blame Fauci for COVID-era policies. The hosts also connect the hearing to broader concerns about the Epstein files, presidential pardons, and what they describe as Donald Trump’s pattern of self-promotion, legal maneuvering, and misinformation. The discussion expands to Trump’s approval ratings, tariffs, immigration rhetoric, government surveillance technology, and the influence of companies such as Palantir. Bland and Cole warn about expanding license-plate tracking and data collection, criticize what they see as hypocrisy around “socialism” and government involvement in private business, and argue that the administration has failed to deliver on promises to reduce costs. The episode closes with lighter conversation about AI, quietly profitable businesses, books, and a true-crime documentary before the hosts again call for Trump to leave office.
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The Left Hook - Pinky Herman
07/30/2026
The Left Hook - Pinky Herman
On this episode of *The Left Hook*, hosts Mark Bland and Jason Kulldeliver a punchy, unfiltered look at the political landscape on July 25, 2026. The duo tackles the mysterious silence surrounding Mitch McConnell’s health, urging Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to bypass the courts and appoint a replacement immediately. They pull no punches in their critique of Donald Trump’s administration—taking aim at Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth, Jim Jordan’s crusade against former Special Counsel Jack Smith, and what they describe as a relentless cycle of political distractions. Shifting focus to their home state, the hosts slam Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe for undermining the voter-approved Amendment 3 on abortion rights and urge listeners to vote "No" on upcoming tax amendments in the August primary. Rounding out the show, they debate the financial efficiency of the death penalty and laugh off YouTuber Jake Paul’s delusional claims of NFL interest, offering a jam-packed hour of bold commentary.
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The Left Hook - Cart Blanche
07/22/2026
The Left Hook - Cart Blanche
On this week's Left Hook, Mark and Jason Kull bring their signature moderate-liberal perspective to you — and they've got plenty to say. Todd Blanch's Senate Testimony: The hosts break down the awkward exchange between Senator Kennedy and Trump's former criminal defense attorney-turned-Deputy Attorney General, questioning whether the nation's top legal office has become the president's personal legal shield. The Epstein Files Fallout: J.D. Vance admits on Joe Rogan that the administration "screwed up the comms" on the Epstein files release. Mark and Jason dig into why Pam Bondi, Kash Patel, and others held a war room meeting to strategize their response — and why thousands of hours of video remain unreleased. Election Fraud Claims: Featuring audio from Rep. Thomas Massie, who pointedly asks: if Republicans won the House, Senate, and White House, where exactly is the fraud? The hosts unpack Trump's continued fixation on 2020 — the only election year his own administration oversaw. Truth Social's Wall Street Play: Trump's media company announces it will sell millisecond-level early access to his posts starting August 1st — giving institutional traders a head start on market-moving policy announcements. The hosts call it what they see: monetized corruption. National Security Memo Concerns: Discussion of NSPM-7 and its implications for labeling political dissenters as domestic threats. Plus: Wild conspiracy theories about UFOs as election cover, mall nostalgia (Aladdin's Castle arcade, Hickory Farms beef sticks, and the day Mortal Kombat changed everything), and two hilariously unhinged "Missed Connections" readings — including a chubby guy's 14,000-replay fantasy and a divorced bird enthusiast pursuing a firefighter.
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The Left Hook - The Islamic Republic of Japan
07/15/2026
The Left Hook - The Islamic Republic of Japan
Mark Bland and Jason Kull dive headfirst into the political chaos dominating the news cycle. They kick things off dissecting Trump's latest gaffes—including his reference to the "Islamic State of Japan" and conversations with holograms—arguing the 25th Amendment can't come soon enough. The hosts tackle the Graham Platner scandal in Maine, where the Senate candidate suspended his campaign amid rape allegations, contrasting his accountability with Trump's flip-flopping response and ongoing E. Jean Carroll legal battles, where the Supreme Court declined to hear Trump's case. They also blast Trump for allegedly rigging the World Cup by calling FIFA's president, likening him to a parent bribing a referee at a kids' soccer game, and criticize his careless admission about not knowing Mitch McConnell's health status—unraveling the GOP's carefully crafted narrative. The second half lightens up with a fun segment on quintessentially "white America" phrases like "You and what army?" and "Look what the cat dragged in," before pivoting to a debate over the New York Times crowning the Seattle dog (loaded with cream cheese) as America's best regional hot dog. The hosts round things out with sobering discussions on escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Iran conflicts, and the Charlie Kirk murder trial developments. Mark and Jason emphasize their unique position as a moderate-liberal voice broadcasting on Fox News affiliates, positioning themselves as "the other side inside the hornet's nest." They close with an open invitation to Missouri political candidates from both parties to come on the show as the 2026 midterms approach, promising equal opportunity coverage this election cycle.
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The Left Hook - 250 Years of America
07/03/2026
The Left Hook - 250 Years of America
This Fourth of July marks America's 250th birthday, but on The Left Hook, Mark Bland and Jason Kull say it's a celebration that's fallen flat. Instead of the unifying, old-fashioned cookouts, fireworks, and camaraderie we saw at the Bicentennial, Donald Trump has turned this milestone into another self-serving grift. From his "Great American State Fair," to slapping his face on passports and hawking sneakers, Bibles, and crypto, he's raking in billions while everyday Americans are still paying more than they did under Biden. As Bland put it, while Trump is busy talking to Teddy Roosevelt holograms, the rest of us are just trying to afford hamburgers and fireworks for our families. But it's not all doom and gloom. The guys took time to honor the generations who fought and died for this country, from the Revolution to Gettysburg, reminding listeners that real patriotism isn't about division, conspiracies, or cosplay. With the midterms kicking off tomorrow, they're calling on folks to reject the chaos, release the Epstein files, and remember we've survived far worse than Trump before. As Bland says, the tears will dry, things will get better, and if we lift our heads and embrace the diversity that makes America great, we can still live up to the promise etched on the Statue of Liberty.
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Left Hook - Caucus Mountains
06/29/2026
Left Hook - Caucus Mountains
On this episode of The Left Hook, host Mark Bland is joined by co-host Jason Kull and returning guest Marcus Boston for a wide-ranging and energetic discussion blending humor, politics, and cultural commentary. After some lighthearted banter about Marcus’s personal life and Father’s Day hypotheticals, the conversation shifts heavily into politics—particularly a new 14-point memorandum of understanding negotiated by Donald Trump regarding Iran. Mark strongly criticizes the deal, arguing it resembles a reset of the earlier JCPOA nuclear agreement but at greater financial and strategic cost to the United States. The hosts question Trump’s negotiation tactics, the lifting of sanctions, the return of frozen Iranian funds, and the shifting control of oil shipping lanes. They also express broader frustration with U.S. involvement in the Middle East and voice skepticism about whether the agreement will hold, especially given tensions involving Israel and Lebanon. In the second half of the show, the discussion broadens to leadership, presidential rhetoric, and the contrast between Trump and former President Barack Obama, whose recent public remarks are praised as eloquent and unifying. The hosts, including Kull, reflect on political divisiveness, media influence, and speculate about future Republican strategy—particularly how J.D. Vance might position himself for 2028. The tone then lightens with commentary on a viral Reddit thread naming the worst U.S. cities, prompting jokes and comparisons involving Midwestern towns like Springfield and East St. Louis. The episode closes with casual pop culture trivia about Woody’s last name from Toy Story and reflections on friendship and social circles, before ending with a call for listeners to stay politically engaged ahead of upcoming elections.
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The Left Hook - The Challenges
06/17/2026
The Left Hook - The Challenges
In this episode of The Left Hook, Mark Bland and Jason Kull focus on the politics surrounding Graham Platner and what his rise says about the Democratic Party’s direction. They talk about his Senate campaign in Maine, the criticism he’s facing, and the way his backers are trying to sell him as a working-class, health care-focused candidate. The hosts push back on the idea that he should be treated like the answer to everything, saying the bigger issue is how the party is trying to package candidates around messaging and regional appeal. A big part of the conversation is about media narratives and political smears. They discuss the tattoo controversy, the New York Times piece about his personal life, and the way accusations or old baggage can be used to attack candidates before voters really get a chance to focus on policy. They also compare Platner’s situation to the way Trump and his allies operate, arguing that the same media ecosystem that builds people up can just as quickly tear them down. The episode also branches into a broader discussion of Trump, inflation, and economic frustration. Mark and Jason criticize Trump’s handling of prices, tariffs, and government messaging, and they talk about how the public is being misled or manipulated on issues like inflation and debt. They connect that to larger concerns about war powers, foreign policy, and America’s political future, while keeping the show’s usual mix of sharp commentary, sarcasm, and a little bit of humor.
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The Left Hook - Skyscrapers and Pools
06/17/2026
The Left Hook - Skyscrapers and Pools
In this episode, Mark Bland and Jason Kull spend a lot of time talking about how podcasting has changed the media world and made it easier for independent voices to compete with traditional radio. They compare the old system of affiliates, station control, and broadcast credentials with the newer world of podcasts and digital audiences, where reach and influence can come from anywhere. They also use that topic to talk about their own show, how it has grown, and why they think local radio often underestimates independent content. The conversation then shifts hard into politics, especially Donald Trump’s behavior toward the press and the broader media environment around him. They discuss Trump attacking journalists, why other reporters do not publicly push back, and how fear of losing access shapes coverage. That leads into a larger conversation about Scott Pelley, media pressure inside CBS, and the way they see powerful institutions bending under Trump-era politics. The episode also covers the economy, the cost of living, and the feeling that many Americans are being squeezed by rising prices, fuel costs, and stagnant wages. Mark and Jason connect that economic anxiety to Trump’s policies and then broaden the discussion to Iran, war powers, and Congress trying to rein in military action. They end by arguing that voters need to make a different choice in the next election, while still keeping the show’s usual mix of sarcasm, hot takes, and occasional sports chatter.
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The Left Hook - The Great Distraction
06/03/2026
The Left Hook - The Great Distraction
The Left Hook features Mark Bland and Jason Kull in a sharp, fast-moving political conversation centered on Donald Trump, corruption, and the chaos of the current news cycle. The episode opens with discussion of Trump’s escalating behavior, fears about authoritarian overreach, the proposed $250 bill with Trump’s face, and the federal law that would make that illegal. Bland and Kull also talk about Trump’s public image-building, comparing it to dictator-style propaganda and warning that the country is slipping deeper into a culture of spectacle and intimidation. A big part of the show focuses on what they call a slush-fund-style maneuver, which they argue is designed to help Trump and January 6 defendants while sidestepping normal legal limits. From there, the episode expands into a rundown of major corruption stories, including a DOJ investigation involving a woman Trump allegedly raped, a White House contract tied to Don Jr.’s firm, a Pentagon contract linked to Trump stock purchases, and foreign money moving through an account connected to Trump’s “Board of Peace”. The hosts also discuss the No Kings protests, immigration, right-wing media attacks on James Talarico, and the broader collapse of political norms in America
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The Left Hook - 39 - Pivot
05/27/2026
The Left Hook - 39 - Pivot
The Left Hook with Mark Bland and Jason Kull leans into a wide-ranging, free-flowing conversation that blends sharp political takes with off-the-cuff humor. This episode circles around the DNC’s 2024 report card, but instead of treating it like a formal breakdown, the hosts poke at what it says—and what it avoids—while questioning whether anything will actually change moving forward. Along the way, they drift through bigger-picture frustrations about Democratic leadership, from candidate development to messaging struggles and the ongoing tug-of-war between establishment voices and progressives. There’s a sense that timing, perception, and internal missteps all collided during the last election cycle, especially when it comes to how Kamala Harris stepped into the spotlight. The conversation also wanders into Trump-era politics, foreign policy tensions, and how narratives evolve after the fact—often rewriting how people remember events as they were happening. It’s less about landing on neat conclusions and more about working through the contradictions, frustrations, and realities of the current political landscape in real time.
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The Left Hook - 38 - China Syndrome
05/20/2026
The Left Hook - 38 - China Syndrome
On this episode of The Left Hook, Mark Bland and Jason Kull explored global politics, Donald Trump’s foreign policy decisions, and the growing economic frustrations facing everyday Americans. Much of the discussion focused on Trump’s trip to China alongside Elon Musk, with the hosts arguing that China now appears to hold increased leverage over the United States in matters involving Iran, Taiwan, and international trade. The episode also examined what the hosts viewed as political hypocrisy surrounding Trump family business relationships compared to previous criticism directed at Hunter Biden. The conversation expanded into rising gas prices, supply chain problems, renewable energy investments, and concerns that the United States is falling behind China in wind and solar development. Additional topics included January 6 pardons, Epstein-related controversies, immigration detention stories, and broader concerns about America’s image on the world stage. Later in the episode, the hosts discussed the arrest of viral internet personality “Chud the Builder” following an alleged shooting connected to racist online confrontations. The show concluded with commentary on the rising cost of raising children, corporate price gouging, and the financial pressures increasingly impacting working-class families across America.
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The Left Hook - 37- FMK
05/12/2026
The Left Hook - 37- FMK
On this episode of The Left Hook, hosts Mark Bland and Jason Kull tackle a wide range of political headlines before closing things out with a much lighter and more comedic discussion. The episode opens with Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker publicly questioning Donald Trump’s mental sharpness in a recent Politico interview. Mark and Jason discuss reports of Trump falling asleep during meetings, mixing up names, and stumbling through speeches, while pointing out the irony that many Republicans who aggressively scrutinized Joe Biden’s cognitive health now seem far less concerned. The conversation then moves into Trump’s tariff policies, including his criticism of a “terrible trade deal” that was later revealed to be the USMCA agreement created during his own administration. The hosts also cover ICE enforcement, the Epstein files, Howard Lutnick’s contentious congressional hearing, and the ongoing gerrymandering battle in Tennessee that could significantly impact voters in Memphis. In the second half of the show, Mark and Jason discuss liberal political influencer Brian Krassenstein purchasing a Cybertruck, losing thousands of followers over it, and then sarcastically announcing that he traded it in for a gas-guzzling Ford truck. The hosts argue that the situation felt more like engagement farming than authentic political commentary. They compare Krassenstein unfavorably to figures like Ron Filipkowski, whom they view as more grounded and journalistically focused. The episode closes with a comedic “F, Marry, Kill” segment centered entirely around breakfast foods, featuring debates over pancakes, waffles, French toast, eggs Benedict, omelets, scrambled eggs, and more — providing a fun and conversational ending to an otherwise politically charged episode.
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Left Hook -36 - Getting Back to Form
05/04/2026
Left Hook -36 - Getting Back to Form
Mark kicks things off with a trip down memory lane, reflecting on the show's evolution across multiple studios and co-hosts over the years. His big takeaway? The best episodes always came from spontaneity and free-flowing conversation — something he and Jason bring in spades. From there, the guys dive headfirst into the news cycle, and nothing is off limits. The recent passing of outlaw country legend David Allan Coe sparks a candid conversation about legacy, racism in music, and the difference between someone who lived their truth versus someone like Kid Rock, who Jason pointedly notes is from Michigan but flies the Confederate flag. "It didn't choose him," Jason says. "He chose it." Then it's on to the assassination attempt at the White House Correspondents' Dinner — which both Mark and Jason treat with about as much urgency as day-old bread. Their take: it's noise, it's distraction, and frankly, as Mark puts it, "We can wait this one out." The James Comey indictment, missing scientists with classified clearances, the Strait of Hormuz, tariffs tanking relations with Canada, and gas prices creeping toward $4 in Missouri — Mark and Jason connect the dots on an administration that seems to be throwing everything at the wall while Americans foot the bill. They also get into the Epstein files, a potential Don Jr. Apprentice spinoff nobody asked for, and what they believe is some very creative money laundering hiding in plain sight. In the back half, the guys lighten things up with a fun breakdown of a viral poll on how people use AI — from ChatGPT recipe hacks to diagnosing mystery illnesses. Jason shares how he used it as a travel guide through museums, and they debate whether asking AI to help make life decisions is genius or the beginning of the end. The episode wraps with laughs courtesy of a viral "things I didn't know until embarrassingly late in life" thread — including the shocking revelation that narwhals are, in fact, real animals.
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Left Hook - 35 - Crypto Crusaders
04/29/2026
Left Hook - 35 - Crypto Crusaders
In the latest episode of The Left Hook, host Mark Bland and regular guest Jason Kull take a sharp look at the ongoing chaos inside the second Trump administration, focusing heavily on FBI Director Kash Patel. While President Trump publicly praises Patel as doing a “fantastic job,” he is reportedly privately fuming over a string of embarrassing headlines. The latest incident involves Patel skipping the official U.S. delegation in Milan, crashing the Team USA hockey locker room after their gold medal win, chugging beers on camera, and putting Trump on speakerphone. The hosts highlight allegations of Patel missing meetings to play beer league hockey, misusing government aircraft, and providing FBI protection for his girlfriend, while also noting his $250 million lawsuit against The Atlantic. They question how long Trump will tolerate the constant embarrassment from his top law enforcement official. The conversation expands into broader concerns about the upcoming midterms, election integrity, and the direction of the country. Bland and Kull discuss the risks of contested election results, potential authoritarian responses, and various administration scandals involving cabinet members. They also touch on performative Christianity, crypto ventures tied to Trump’s inner circle, Steve Bannon’s Seinfeld royalties, and the dangers of the growing political betting markets. The episode closes with a sobering reflection on whether the world may eventually view Trump’s America as an aggressor, drawing uneasy parallels to historical conflicts. As always, the show blends sharp political commentary with occasional lighter tangents on topics like WrestleMania and Bitcoin wallet woes.
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The Left hook - 34 - Some Silver Balls
04/22/2026
The Left hook - 34 - Some Silver Balls
On this episode of The Left Hook, host Mark Bland and co-host Jason Kull open with some light banter before unloading on the week’s biggest political stories. They zero in on the Trump administration’s midterm message: Americans should brace for economic pain—higher gas and grocery prices—in support of the escalating conflict with Iran. Mark and Jason Kull challenge the shifting rationale behind the conflict, question the absence of any clear, immediate threat, and take aim at claims that Trump’s energy policies will somehow fix it all down the road—despite ongoing tariffs and supply chain instability. They also dig into the bizarre feud between the White House and Pope Leo, mocking JD Vance’s attempt at theological authority and highlighting the strange optics of Trump attacking a major religious figure while still relying on evangelical support. The conversation turns to whether MAGA loyalty can hold as the administration grows more isolated on the world stage. The episode rounds out with discussions on the missing Epstein files, Clarence Thomas’s comments on progressivism, rising election denialism, and a lighter segment featuring the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees and a satirical take on “real American” tax refund spending. Sharp, funny, and unfiltered as always.
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The Left Hook - 33 - NACHO President
04/15/2026
The Left Hook - 33 - NACHO President
In this episode of The Left Hook, hosts Mark Bland and Jason Kull offer a sharp, independent critique of President Donald Trump’s early second term in 2026. The conversation opens with economic concerns, particularly rising gas prices. The hosts note the national average has climbed to about $4.16 per gallon, significantly higher than the roughly $2.75 seen during the final stages of the Biden administration. They argue that Trump’s policies, including aggressive tariffs and military actions, have contributed to higher energy costs and broader economic strain, contradicting claims of improved conditions. A central focus is the ongoing crisis with Iran and control of the Strait of Hormuz. Bland and Kull contend that Trump’s decision to strike Iranian targets, including actions against leadership, has backfired dramatically. Instead of securing the vital waterway, Iran retains control, leading to disrupted global oil supplies, elevated prices worldwide, and damaged U.S. alliances. They mock Trump’s late-night Truth Social posts, including dismissive comments about NATO and interest in Greenland, and revive their “TACO” label — Trump Always Chickens Out — while poking fun at a Fox News counter-spin of “NACHO.” The hosts also slam Trump’s plans to restructure or downsize the U.S. Forest Service, including closing research labs, calling it shortsighted waste that discards decades of valuable scientific work and weakens wildfire preparedness and national park support. They highlight long-term damage to institutions, military inefficiencies such as using expensive missiles against cheaper drones, and the erosion of America’s global standing, portraying the U.S. as having shifted from a respected leader to an unreliable actor under Trump. Throughout the show, Bland and Kull maintain an irreverent, conversational tone typical of the program, blending humor, sarcasm, and data-driven analysis. They emphasize that everyday Americans are feeling the pinch through higher prices and uncertainty while criticizing Republican congressional silence on major issues. The episode underscores their view that Trump’s chaotic approach is creating problems that will be difficult to reverse before the midterms.
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The Left Hook - 32 - The Big 50th
04/08/2026
The Left Hook - 32 - The Big 50th
On this special birthday edition of The Left Hook, host Mark Bland celebrates turning 50 alongside co-host Jason Kull. The duo reflects on reaching the “back nine” of life, the grind of Midwest broadcasting, and their journey from casual political chats to a respected independent voice—while lamenting St. Louis’s fickle support for local talent. The conversation quickly turns sharp on current events. Bland and Kull slam President Trump’s escalating Iran conflict, including the U.S. strike that destroyed a major civilian bridge near Tehran—an act they call a desperate war crime and a sign of failing foreign policy. They discuss Trump’s recent firing of Attorney General Pam Bondi, portraying it as another example of chaotic infighting and abuse of power. They also roast Stephen A. Smith for wading into the birthright citizenship debate, accusing him of hypocrisy and urging him to “stay in his lane.” The hosts warn that Trump’s norm-breaking has eroded previous Democratic leniency, predicting a hard pendulum swing and accountability when power shifts. Light moments include birthday banter, Sammy Hagar and Rush references, and a fun aside on a startup’s wild plan to beam sunlight to Earth via space mirrors on demand.
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The Left Hook - 31 - Strait Mess
04/01/2026
The Left Hook - 31 - Strait Mess
On this episode of The Left Hook, host Mark Bland unleashes a passionate critique of President Donald Trump’s leadership amid the ongoing war with Iran. Bland argues that Trump, influenced by Benjamin Netanyahu, launched an ill-conceived conflict that has left the United States diplomatically isolated with no international allies willing to join the fight. Despite aggressive U.S. bombing campaigns, Iran continues to retaliate, while the disruption of the Strait of Hormuz has driven gas prices sharply higher than under Biden, damaging American wallets and the global economy. Citing former U.S. Ambassador Daniel Fried, Bland warns that the administration is improvising without a clear strategy, comparing the situation to wandering lost in a “dark cave.” Bland pulls no punches, labeling Trump the worst president in American history and a “lying, fat piece of trash” whose narcissistic style has poisoned families, friendships, and America’s global standing. He notes shifting public opinion, with many former Trump supporters now regretting their votes due to rising costs. Additional segments cover young couples skipping expensive engagement rings for trips amid economic pressures, and criticism of a new USPS fuel surcharge. Bland urges listeners to redirect their anger toward Trump and calls for a return to true “America First” priorities.
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The Left Hook - 30 - Unneeded Stress
03/24/2026
The Left Hook - 30 - Unneeded Stress
On this episode of The Left Hook, host Mark Bland and co-host Jason Kull open by discussing March Madness in St. Louis. Bland picks Michigan to win it all in his primary bracket and Florida in his upset bracket, while Kull selects Arizona as champion. The pair observe the unusual parity in college basketball this season and note how dangerous mid-major teams become when they emphasize three-point shooting. The conversation shifts to the escalating conflict with Iran. Bland and Kull critique FBI Director Kash Patel’s testimony on Capitol Hill, where he appeared unable to account for the recent firing of several Iran-focused counterintelligence agents just before U.S. strikes intensified. They express concern that the war is consuming billions in taxpayer funds, damaging alliances, and pulling focus from pressing domestic needs. President Trump’s exchange with the Japanese prime minister, underscoring the administration’s handling of international coordination. Bland argues that these actions do not reflect an America First policy and have left the United States more isolated. Lighter moments include the introduction of the term “flamper” for clothes left on the bedroom floor, a review of workplace red flags indicating feigned expertise, and brief commentary on declining interest in awards shows.
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The Left Hook - 29 - Iran So far Away
03/16/2026
The Left Hook - 29 - Iran So far Away
This week's episode of The Left Hook with host Mark Bland and guest Drew Pinson kicks off with playful banter about Drew's recent 5-day Dallas trip that caused a scheduling mix-up—complete with storm delays, tarmac woes, and Mark's mock "fatherly" scolding about better planning. The main focus shifts to sharp criticism of the ongoing **U.S.-Israel war against Iran** (dubbed "Operation Epic Fury" by the administration). Mark compares Trump's approach to the infamous "Leroy Jenkins" meme: a reckless charge without strategy, driven by gut feelings, oil interests (Strait of Hormuz), and influence from Netanyahu/Israel. They slam **Stephen Miller**'s claims of total Iranian annihilation as "hogwash," noting Iran's deep redundancies (IRGC, military branches totaling ~1M personnel), retaliatory missile strikes on multiple countries, and resilient leadership (new leader is the son of the bombed former one, fueling vengeance). Drew highlights public disapproval (only ~33% support per polls), civilian casualties (including schoolgirls from a U.S. Tomahawk strike the admin downplays or misattributes), and lack of planning or congressional approval. Mark plays a clip of Trump admitting he "doesn't know enough" about key details despite leading the war, calling it irresponsible amid wasted billions, dead service members, and ignored domestic needs. They argue the conflict disrupts global economics/shipping, ignores UN processes, and risks escalation—while Fox hypes tiny pro-U.S. celebrations in Iran that quickly flipped to "Death to America" chants. The episode closes lighter: debating the **2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominees** (e.g., Mariah Carey, Phil Collins, Lauryn Hill, Billy Idol, INXS, Oasis, Wu-Tang Clan, Iron Maiden, P!nk, Shakira, Luther Vandross). Mark and Drew weigh merits—strong yes for Billy Idol/INXS, maybe for Phil Collins/Mariah, push for a broader "Music Hall" to fit non-rock acts, and no for Iron Maiden despite long snubs. A fun, fiery mix of politics and pop culture—classic Left Hook style! Tune in Saturdays at 9 AM CST on WIBH/KRLL or online.
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