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 - 18 - The Hunger Games 2026
12/23/2025
Left Hook - 18 - The Hunger Games 2026
Holiday Nostalgia & The Political Landscape of 2026. Hosts Mark Bland and Jason Kull kick off the final show of the year with a warm dive into holiday traditions: strict rules about when Christmas movies are allowed, mandatory Christmas Eve breakfasts, and a shared disdain for warm December weather. They reminisce about the golden age of toys, calculating that the iconic $129 G.I. Joe USS Flagg carrier from the 1980s would cost about $402 in today’s dollars—roughly the price of a modern VR headset. The conversation quickly pivots to a sharp critique of the political moment. The hosts dissect President Trump’s proposed “Warrior Dividend”—a $1,776 bonus for 1.5 million service members—calling it a flashy political stunt funded by shuffling existing military budgets rather than new revenue from tariffs. They express frustration with claims of an economic boom that don’t match the reality of high prices and a 36% economic approval rating. Looking ahead to July 2026, they darkly compare the planned 250th anniversary celebrations—including a nationwide competition—to The Hunger Games, warning that the year could be “lit” in the most dystopian sense. Despite the heavy satire, the episode ends with a heartfelt Merry Christmas and cautious hope for stability in the year ahead.
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the Left hook - 17 - The Standard
12/15/2025
the Left hook - 17 - The Standard
In this engaging episode of The Left Hook, host Mark Bland welcomes Fred Wellman, a retired Army veteran, host of the On Democracy podcast, and Democratic candidate challenging longtime Republican Rep. Ann Wagner for Missouri's 2nd Congressional District seat. Wellman, a West Point graduate, Ranger, and helicopter pilot with four combat tours—including Desert Storm and Iraq—shares what drove him to run: frustration with Republican policies that hurt working families, like cuts to healthcare and SNAP, juxtaposed against billionaire excess. He recounts personal stories, including helping his bartender son access Medicaid under the ACA, and contrasts that with GOP rhetoric dismissing young workers as "lazy." Wellman criticizes Wagner for never holding a town hall in 13 years, refusing constituent engagement, and enabling unchecked executive overreach, vowing to represent all district residents regardless of party.The conversation turns deeply personal as Wellman opens up about the heavy toll of military service—losing two soldiers in Desert Storm, his interpreter beheaded in Iraq, and profound PTSD treated through years of therapy. He reflects on survivor's guilt, the moral weight of ordering troops into harm's way, and how these experiences shape his view that leaders must take war seriously. Bland and Wellman discuss broader issues like generational wealth decline, skyrocketing housing and energy costs, abortion rights ignored despite Missouri voters passing Amendment 3, and the need for investment in education, healthcare, and veterans rather than endless cuts. Fred positions his campaign as service-driven, promising accessibility and focus on affordability for the next generation. Listeners can learn more at wellmanformo.com.
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The Left Hook - 16 - Off the Air
12/09/2025
The Left Hook - 16 - Off the Air
Mark Bland and perennial co-host Jason Kull dive into Missouri’s new porn-site age-verification law that forced Pornhub and others to block the state entirely. The duo erupts in disbelief: Republican lawmakers who scream “small government” just made it harder for adults (including themselves) to access legal porn, all while ignoring that the same voters overwhelmingly passed a pro-choice amendment the state refuses to honor. They call it peak hypocrisy: “They’ll track your porn but won’t release Epstein files or count your vote.” The rant spirals into broader MAGA absurdities: Trump still whining about 2020 five years later, Kash Patel’s cosplay FBI jacket, Pete Hegseth’s boat-shooting scandal285 shooting narco-subs, pardoning Jan 6 rioters while arresting a “pipe-bomber” nobody cares about, and Joe Rogan parroting nonsense about non-citizens voting in Minnesota. Mark predicts the first big Trump cabinet casualty will be Hegseth, Bondi, or Patel, bets Jason a milkshake it’ll be spun as “Biden’s fault,” and warns the authoritarian pendulum is swinging hard. It’s raw, furious, hilarious Midwestern talk-radio at its finest — equal parts outrage and dark comedy about a country that can’t even keep its porn free anymore.
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The Left Hook - 15 - Black Friday
12/02/2025
The Left Hook - 15 - Black Friday
Mark Bland unleashes a no-holds-barred takedown of Donald Trump’s chaotic second term. Coming off a personally tough holiday, Bland argues the real “black” in Black Friday 2025 isn’t the shopping deals; it’s the darkening economic picture the administration is desperately trying to hide. He spotlights the unprecedented cancellation of the third-quarter GDP report (the third major economic indicator scrapped in weeks), blaming mass deportations, new tariffs, and a lingering government shutdown for pushing the U.S. toward recession. Bland contrasts this year’s generic, Great Value Thanksgiving dinners with the name-brand abundance Americans enjoyed under Biden, accusing Trump of gaslighting voters while quietly admitting his own policies are tanking the economy. From the turkey-pardoning stage turning into an angry rant against Chuck and Nancy, to Trump seemingly shrugging “just say yes” when asked if he’s a fascist, Bland paints a picture of a presidency spiraling into pettiness, dementia-fueled loops, and authoritarian cosplay. Add Marjorie Taylor Greene’s resignation, ICE detaining U.S. citizens, the abrupt collapse of Elon’s DOGE experiment, and Pete Hegseth picking fights with war hero Mark Kelly, and Bland declares: the chaos isn’t coming; it’s already here. A passionate call for adults to demand transparency and accountability in a country that feels increasingly run like a reality-TV dictatorship.
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the Left Hook - 14 - Illegal
11/24/2025
the Left Hook - 14 - Illegal
In the latest firestorm episode of The Left Hook, Mark Bland and Jason Kull tore into Trump’s second-term meltdown with zero apologies. Top of the list: the long-promised Epstein files. After months of stalling and letting Kash Patel twist in the wind, Trump finally signed a 30-day release order—everyone expects a comically redacted black-bar disaster because his name is all over the existing docs and the dismissed 2016 lawsuit alleging he raped a 13-year-old still haunts the files. On Air Force One, Trump pointed at a female reporter and snarled “Quiet, piggy,” with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt (who was 15 when her 60-year-old husband was 47) defending it as “frankness Americans love.” A coalition of Democratic lawmakers and veterans dropped a viral video telling troops and intel officers to refuse illegal orders—cue MAGA screaming “sedition” and “death penalty” from the same crowd that pardoned January 6 insurrectionists. The Coast Guard quietly declared the OK hand gesture no longer a hate symbol, and Grok spent the week bending over backwards to call Trump’s misogyny “playful” until xAI had to admit they tweaked the AI. From top to bottom, every accusation is a confession, and the mask isn’t just off—it’s been shredded, burned, and scattered over Mar-a-Lago’s lawn.
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The Left Hook - 13 - Dropped Ball
11/18/2025
The Left Hook - 13 - Dropped Ball
Centrist host Mark Bland is done with the modern Democratic Party. In a fiery 40+ minute solo rant, he declares the 2024 loss wasn’t just Trump’s win; it was self-inflicted by spineless liberal leadership. The trigger? Eight Democratic senators (Fetterman, Kaine, Durbin, Shaheen, Hassan, Rosen, Cortez Masto, Angus King) broke ranks and voted with Republicans to reopen the government, restoring SNAP benefits but surrendering all leverage. Bland calls it the ultimate capitulation: “Checks and balances are real, but folding the second things get hard is why we lost.” He torches Schumer, Fetterman (“a really tall idiot”), and the entire 2025 liberal class as “feckless and useless,” accuses senators of pocketing massive retroactive paychecks while Americans suffered, and says local St. Louis-area liberals flake on commitments the same way national Dems flake on principle. Bland, a longtime moderate who’s pulled from both sides, now sounds the alarm: the party needs a complete leadership purge before 2026 midterms. He’s still pro-liberal policies (universal healthcare, etc.) but refuses to carry water for cowards anymore. Bonus burns: Trump got mercilessly booed at a Commanders game, Epstein files are allegedly coming, and the party that claims to fight the rich just handed senators fat checks. Mark Bland is officially off the plantation. The Left Hook just went fully independent.
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the Left Hook - 12 - Precursor to Change
11/12/2025
the Left Hook - 12 - Precursor to Change
On *The Left Hook* podcast, host Mark Bland dissected a seismic political earthquake shaking Donald Trump's second term. In New York City, 34-year-old Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani demolished former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa with a commanding victory—the highest turnout in 50 years, exceeding 2 million ballots—becoming the city's first Muslim, first South Asian, and first African-born mayor, and the youngest in over a century. Mamdani’s victory roar, “Donald Trump, turn the volume up!”, vowed free childcare, universal buses, and a crackdown on predatory landlords like Trump, framing it as a mandate for working families amid national chaos. Bland hailed it as the opening salvo of a 2026 blue tsunami, amplified by Nancy Pelosi’s retirement after 39 years, clearing the path for AOC and Gavin Newsom to lead the resistance. Meanwhile, Trump’s tariffs are crushing households with a $1,200 annual tax hike, driving inflation to 3% and core prices higher for apparel and furniture—eggs linger at $5–6 a dozen, gas far from $2. The 46-day government shutdown, ending November 10 after bipartisan Senate passage, gutted SNAP benefits, furloughed feds, and slashed flights 10%—worse than the worst U.S. cancellation day, every day—while Trump refused negotiations. Elon Musk branded Mamdani a “charismatic swindler” on Joe Rogan’s podcast, stumbling when pressed for proof—pure projection, Bland declared, after Musk’s own chainsaw stunts with Trump. New York’s message rings clear: Trumpism is toxic. Bland urged listeners to organize; Impeachment 3.0 is loading.
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The Left Hook -11 - Advance the Relationship
11/04/2025
The Left Hook -11 - Advance the Relationship
On The Left Hook, hosted by Mark Bland, guests Producer Bobby Hickman and Jason Kull dive into a lively mix of politics, sports, and pop culture. The episode kicks off with a discussion on the World Series, touching on potential MLB expansions in cities like Nashville and Portland. The conversation shifts to global sports, including the NFL's international ambitions and a futuristic elevated stadium in Qatar for the 2034 World Cup. Politically, the trio critiques Donald Trump's claim of acing a dementia screening, which he called a high IQ test, raising concerns about his mental health and leadership. They debate JD Vance's appeal, with Bobby citing his "vibe" but acknowledging his factual inaccuracies. The discussion highlights fears of authoritarianism and a government shutdown, criticizing Republican tactics. Speculation about Trump's health, including possible strokes, and conspiracies about Epstein files and a third term via Vance add intrigue. The episode also critiques the Louisiana governor's involvement in selecting LSU’s next football coach, blending sports and politics. It wraps up with a fun segment on the worst TV families, like the Boltons and Lannisters from Game of Thrones, and favorite Halloween candies, with Laffy Taffys and Reese’s topping the list. Catch the show Saturday mornings on CBS Radio KRLL and WIBH! 9am CST on wibhradio.com
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the Left Hook - 10 - Retribution without Context
10/25/2025
the Left Hook - 10 - Retribution without Context
On this episode of *The Left Hook with Mark Bland*, airing Saturdays at 9:00 AM CST on WIBHradio.com and CBS affiliates, host Mark Bland and guest Jason Kull dive into political controversies and pop culture. A Reuters/Ipsos poll shows 55% of Americans, including 29% of Republicans, believe Trump is using federal law enforcement to target enemies like James Comey and Letitia James, fueling concerns about political division, with 67% worried about conflict and 61% viewing redistricting as harmful to democracy. Bland and Kull criticize Trump’s “retribution tour,” noting his inflammatory rhetoric and GOP’s tolerance of Nazi symbols and white nationalist support, despite their anti-Democrat stance. They question Trump’s incoherent “Gulf of America” remarks and his fixation on a lavish White House ballroom over healthcare. The episode shifts gears with a fun Tournament of Pop Culture, pitting classic sports video games like *Tecmo Super Bowl*, *NBA Jam*, and *Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out!!* against each other. After heated debates, *Tecmo Super Bowl* emerges as the greatest sports video game. Find Bland on markbland.net and Kull at @FeatherBangs on Twitter. Share with a friend or Family!
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the Left Hook - 9- Young Republicans
10/24/2025
the Left Hook - 9- Young Republicans
On this episode of The Left Hook with Mark Bland, airing Saturdays at 9:00 AM CST on CBS affiliates and WIBHradio.com, host Mark Bland tackles pressing issues from St. Louis. He dives into a Mother Jones exposé revealing racist texts from young Republican leaders, aged 24-35, including slurs and violent rhetoric like gas chamber threats. Vice President J.D. Vance dismissed these as "edgy jokes" on Charlie Kirk’s show, drawing criticism for GOP hypocrisy. Bland calls this "Hitlergate," highlighting the party’s failure to condemn such rhetoric, tying it to broader Republican embrace of divisive ideologies, including Nazi references and Civil War statue defenses. He questions their logic, noting the contradiction in celebrating historical Democrats while decrying socialism. Bland also critiques Trump’s incoherent "reverse bathtub" remarks and a Middle East peace deal with Israel and Hamas, suspecting ulterior motives with Netanyahu. He addresses Joe Rogan’s disappointment with Trump’s deportation policies, accusing Rogan of enabling hate. The show closes with a lighter note, listing top Halloween candies like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (67% chance) and Sour Patch Kids (55%), per Action Network’s data. Follow Bland at markbland.net for more.
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the Left hook - The Enabling Act of 2025
10/24/2025
the Left hook - The Enabling Act of 2025
On "The Left Hook with Mark Bland," aired every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM CST on WIBHradio.com and CBS affiliates, host Mark Bland discusses Donald Trump's controversial actions, focusing on the deployment of National Guard troops to U.S. cities like Portland, Oregon, and Chicago. Bland criticizes Trump’s claims of cities being "war zones," arguing they lack evidence and reflect an East Coast-West Coast divide. He highlights Stephen Miller’s CNN claim that Trump has "plenary authority" to deploy troops, a term Bland links to authoritarian tactics, drawing parallels to Hitler’s 1933 Enabling Act. Bland suggests Trump’s moves, including a government shutdown, aim to protect himself from potential Epstein file revelations, alleging he’s targeting citizens rather than illegal immigrants. He condemns groups like Rose City Antifa for fueling Trump’s narrative by engaging in confrontational protests, urging non-violent resistance. Bland warns of Trump’s authoritarian push, enabled by Republican support, and calls for accountability, especially if Epstein allegations prove true. The episode concludes with a lighter segment on Halloween activities, noting popular choices like watching scary movies (48%) and consuming pumpkin-flavored items (46%)
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The Left Hook - Enemy Within
10/08/2025
The Left Hook - Enemy Within
Mark Bland dives into two big political stories. First, he unpacks a recent high-profile military meeting where Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth pushed a bold new vision for the armed forces, focusing on a tougher mindset and controversial changes to department priorities. Bland notes the chilly response from military leaders, hinting at unease with talk of redirecting focus to domestic issues, which some see as a risky shift in tone. He ties this to broader concerns about state-level plans, like Missouri’s, to ramp up security measures. Second, Bland tackles the ongoing government shutdown, sparked by a congressional standoff over budget disputes. With hundreds of thousands of federal workers sidelined and millions in daily costs piling up, the closure’s hitting everything from public services to economic confidence. Bland points to past shutdowns under similar leadership, criticizing the lack of compromise and growing political divides that threaten stability. He warns that these moves could signal a troubling direction for the country, urging listeners to stay sharp. The Left Hook Saturdays at 9 AM Central on WIBH or KRLL, or visit markbland.net for more.
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The Left Hook - Movin' On
09/29/2025
The Left Hook - Movin' On
In this episode of Left Hook with Mark Bland, host Mark Bland tackles a range of provocative topics solo, marking his first time without a co-host in over a decade. Broadcasting on CBS affiliates like KRLL and WIBH, and online at markbland.net, Bland dives into the controversial Charlie Kirk memorial in Glendale, Arizona, where 90,000 MAGA attendees left behind mountains of trash, drawing criticism for its disorganized and disrespectful aftermath. Bland critiques the event’s bizarre tone, likening it to a Christian nationalist rally, with Donald Trump’s appearance and odd behavior, including a theatrical hug, adding to the spectacle. He also discusses Jimmy Kimmel’s brief suspension by ABC, influenced by Trump’s pressure, highlighting tensions over free speech. Bland reflects on Trump’s chaotic UN speech, where he insulted global leaders, contradicted his own policies, and embarrassed the U.S. on the world stage. The episode wraps with lighthearted “life hacks” like using frozen towels or Cheez-Its in soup. Bland’s sharp commentary blends politics and pop culture, urging listeners to engage critically. Catch the full episode at markbland.net.
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The Left hook - 5 - Freedom of Speech in yo Face
09/22/2025
The Left hook - 5 - Freedom of Speech in yo Face
On this episode host Mark Bland and political pundit Glenn Kage (cah-gee) explore America’s turbulent political landscape. They condemn the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk while criticizing the politicization of his death, particularly the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s show over controversial remarks, raising alarms about free speech under Trump’s administration. Glenn, drawing on his extensive union background, critiques Missouri’s legislators for overturning voter-approved measures like paid sick leave. The episode highlights concerns over political loyalty trumping qualifications, the internet’s indelible record of actions, and the need for centrism amid polarized politics, urging reflection before the 2026 midterms. Listen to every single Saturday 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM CST on WIBH 102.5/ KRLL 104.1 or online at wibhradio.com
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The Left hook - Somber
09/16/2025
The Left hook - Somber
In this gripping episode of *The Left Hook*, host Mark Bland and guest Matt Krueger dive into the shocking September 2025 assassination of Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old Turning Point USA founder, gunned down during a Utah Valley University debate. Exploring Kirk’s complex legacy as a fierce free speech and Second Amendment advocate, they unpack the biting irony of his death by firearm—living, as the summary quips, “what he preached.” The episode tackles the nation’s polarized reactions, from conservative vigils and vengeful backlash (think firings and visa threats) to liberal schadenfreude, spotlighting the Republican “blood thirst” lashing out at critics. With suspect Tyler Robinson’s arrest fueling debates on political violence, Bland and Krueger frame this tragedy as a lens on America’s gun culture and free speech fault lines, urging listeners to tune in for a raw, nuanced take on a figure most knew only from headlines.
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The Left Hook - You're in the File
09/06/2025
The Left Hook - You're in the File
On *The Left Hook* with host Mark Bland, guest Drew Pinson dives into a dynamic mix of politics, pop culture, and personal insights. Aired on CBS Radio, the episode kicks off with Bland’s enthusiasm for fall and Halloween, proposing a spooky-themed special featuring mystics and haunted locations. The conversation shifts to pop culture, with Pinson defending Almond Joy in a nostalgic candy bracket debate, highlighting the show’s recurring “Tournament of Pop Culture” segment. The discussion takes a serious turn as Bland and Pinson tackle political controversies. They criticize President Donald Trump’s leadership, likening it to a chaotic, transactional approach that destabilizes institutions. A focal point is the controversy surrounding Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, whose anti-vaccine stance and misinformation have prompted over a thousand HHS employees to demand his resignation. The hosts lament the politicization of health policy, with Pinson comparing RFK Jr.’s actions to “bombing for peace.” The episode also addresses the Epstein files, with survivors compiling their own client list due to the Justice Department’s inaction. Bland and Pinson question Trump’s dismissal of the files as a hoax, speculating on the lack of accountability even if incriminating evidence emerges. They express frustration over Trump’s influence, with Pinson noting the exhaustion of living under his prolonged political presence. Lightening the mood, the hosts debate wrestling, with Bland questioning AEW’s HBO Max deal and advocating for a direct-to-consumer model, while Pinson defends AEW’s appeal to adult fans. They wrap up with a lively discussion on the 2025 song of the summer, championing Chappell Roan’s *Pink Pony Club* over Billboard’s pick. *The Left Hook* blends humor, nostalgia, and sharp political commentary, engaging listeners with its eclectic mix.
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The Left Hook - World Records and Prayers
09/04/2025
The Left Hook - World Records and Prayers
From St. Louis, Missouri, The Left Hook with host Mark Bland airs on CBS Radio Networks(WIBH/KRLL) , delivering a one-hour blend of independent politics and pop culture with a progressive edge. This week, Mark welcomes returning guest Marcus Boston for a candid, hard-hitting discussion. They tackle the recent Annunciation Catholic School shooting, where two children died and 17 were injured, sparking a feud between White House Press Secretary Carolyn Leavitt and Jen Psaki, now an MSNBC host. Psaki criticized “thoughts and prayers” on social media, pushing for gun control, while Leavitt called her remarks disrespectful to faith communities, highlighting tensions over religion and gun policy. Mark and Marcus debate why guns dominate these tragedies, citing Australia’s Port Arthur reforms as a model, and question Congress’s failure, especially among Republicans, to enact common-sense gun laws.The conversation critiques the Trump administration’s polarizing tactics, like deploying National Guard troops to liberal cities such as Chicago, seen as provocative rather than problem-solving. They explore how money fuels political dysfunction, from lobbying to Trump’s private equity deals, dismantling 250 years of federal systems. Marcus views Trump as embodying “the real America,” contrasting with Obama’s hopeful era of economic recovery. They challenge inflammatory rhetoric, like Leavitt’s response to labeling trans people as potential domestic terrorists, and debunk stereotypes about mass shooters, noting young white males predominate. Mark argues a leader like Bernie Sanders could have shifted priorities toward public funding and people-first policies. With sharp wit and raw honesty, The Left Hook dissects school shootings, religion, and systemic issues, urging listeners to confront America’s challenges. Tune in for a thought-provoking hour that pulls no punches, delivering a progressive “jab, jab, left hook” to spark change.
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The Left Hook - A Tithing to the King
08/25/2025
The Left Hook - A Tithing to the King
The Premier episode of the new moderate/liberal show called Mark Bland's The Left Hook! On this first episode of the show, funny man and actor Jonathan May stops through to talk some politics and life. First up Trump is having tons of meetings with world leaders and none seem to come off well. Putin tells Trump they can meet in Alaska where the world finds out that Trump is a super Putin fan and Putin couldn't care any less about the USA and Trump. After the failed meeting Trump walked away with no concessions and no hope. Then he trounced to Washington DC to meet with world leaders and Zalensky regarding the Ukraine war. Trump had nothing to offer and made a laughing stock of his own meetings. All in all the USA walked away from this with less than they started with. And now Putin knows that Trump is his puppet. All this and more on the first episode of The Left hook.
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The QNow - 645- And just like that, They're gone
05/13/2025
The QNow - 645- And just like that, They're gone
In this lively episode of The Q Now podcast, hosts Mark Bland and Jason Kull deliver a mix of politics, pop culture, and personal stories from KYRO’s Gateway Fiber Studios. Broadcasting with a simulcast in "Broken England," the duo reflects on their decade-long journey, announcing a hiatus from KYRO to join Occupy Democrats for a new show airing three days a week on YouTube. They express gratitude to KYRO’s owners, John Shepherd and Lee Thompson, for the platform that opened new doors, while inviting listeners to follow their upcoming venture. Joined by guest magician Keegan Emmert, the episode is packed with humor and candid moments. Emmert wows with a fork-bending trick, signed by the hosts, and a mind-bending experiment highlighting their connection. The hosts praise his talent, hinting at future collaborations. Politically, they critique the current administration’s “clumsy and unnecessary” policies, like tariffs, and express frustration with media dynamics and leadership, urging listeners to stay engaged. Mark and Jason share stories of overcoming career challenges in St. Louis, emphasizing resilience and authentic relationships. They touch on cultural references, from Bobcat Goldthwait to OnlyFans controversies, keeping the vibe unscripted and relatable. The episode wraps with a call to check out Emmert’s Lock and Key Magic and a promise to keep delivering thought-provoking content. Don’t miss this heartfelt farewell to KYRO and a bold step into The Q Now’s next chapter—stream it on theqnow.com and join the conversation!
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the QNow - 644 - Stop It
04/25/2025
the QNow - 644 - Stop It
Hosts Mark Bland and Jason Kull deliver a fiery episode of The Q Now on KYRO News Radio, airing April 24, 2025, from Gateway Fiber Studios. Shortened to one hour due to a Blues playoff game, the show blends sharp political critique with pop culture banter, focusing on Trump’s foreign policy and administration chaos. The episode opens with a Moscow Times report alleging Trump’s involvement in a planned Moscow Trump Tower, explaining his pro-Russia stance amid stalled Ukraine-Russia peace talks. Bland and Cole criticize Trump for prioritizing personal gain over U.S. interests, noting Ukraine’s rejection of U.S. proposals to cede territory and its shift to NATO allies. They highlight Trump’s ineffective Truth Social pleas to Putin and dismiss his real estate focus as irrelevant to domestic issues like infrastructure. The hosts then address dysfunction in Trump’s circle, citing a near-physical clash between Elon Musk and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent over IRS leadership, devolving into accusations of being a “Soros agent.” They debunk Trump’s claims of low grocery prices, using Grok to confirm egg prices nearly doubled from $3.37 to $6.23 per dozen since April 2024. Bland calls Trump’s team “whiny” and urges Republicans to offer substantive solutions. For levity, the hosts discuss BuzzFeed’s gross behind-the-scenes facts from films like The Paperboy (Nicole Kidman urinating on Zac Efron) and Texas Chainsaw Massacre (unwashed costumes in 100-degree heat). They tangent into It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia debates, maintaining their irreverent charm. Closing with thanks to listeners and Gateway Fiber, Bland and Kull vow to “make everyone proud.” The episode appeals to politically engaged moderates, blending outrage at Trump’s leadership with humor, reflecting the polarized climate of 2025.
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The QNow - 641 - Liberation Day
04/10/2025
The QNow - 641 - Liberation Day
The hosts of "the queue now," Mark Bland and Jason Cole, marked their show's 15th anniversary, with Bland announcing the retirement of his traditional intro for a more free-flowing approach. The main topic of discussion quickly became "Liberation Day," which coincided with the implementation of new tariffs by Donald Trump. The hosts expressed significant concern about the economic fallout, drawing parallels to the historically damaging Smoot-Hawley Act. They highlighted the negative reaction in the stock market and the potential for job losses in sectors like automaking. The tariffs were portrayed as illogical and harmful to US allies, potentially driving them towards alternative partnerships, such as with China. The conversation also touched on Elon Musk's waning influence after an unsuccessful political investment and his reported upcoming departure from Trump's administration. A significant segment focused on Laura Loomer, who allegedly presented Trump with a list of disloyal government officials, leading to the firing of several individuals based on loyalty. The hosts deemed this a dangerous precedent. The latter part of the show featured an interview with Dr. Julie Scott, the current vice president running for re-election to the Wentzville School Board. Dr. Scott advocated for the importance of local elections, the Propel proposition to fund schools, and a focus on students' needs over political agendas. She voiced her frustrations with the current board's functionality and discussed the negative campaigning she had experienced. Bland and Cole strongly endorsed Dr. Scott, encouraging listeners in the Wentzville district to vote for her. The hosts identified themselves as "Midwestern moderate liberals".
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The QNow - 640 - Hot Nuts
03/17/2025
The QNow - 640 - Hot Nuts
The QNow Podcast – Mark Bland & Jason Kull with Guest Moshe Kopolow In this episode of The QNow, airing on 1280 KYRO Fox News, Mark Bland and Jason Kull are joined by guest Moshe Kopolow for a deep dive into some of the biggest topics making waves in the world today. From international conflicts to the digital landscape, this episode is packed with sharp analysis, bold opinions, and plenty of thought-provoking moments. We kick things off with a discussion on the Israel-Palestine conflict, exploring the latest developments, historical complexities, and how public discourse around the issue is evolving. Moshe offers his unique perspective as we break down some of the narratives shaping this long-standing conflict. Next, we turn our attention to Mahmoud Khalil, examining his influence and why his name is garnering attention in current global discussions. We dig into his legacy and how his work connects to larger geopolitical movements. Then, we shift gears to Seattle, a city that continues to shape the national conversation through its politics, culture, and activism. What’s really going on in the Pacific Northwest? We unpack how Seattle reflects broader societal trends and discuss key stories to watch. Finally, we dive into the chaos of Twitter Spaces—where digital debates rage in real time. We explore whether these live audio forums are sparking meaningful conversations or just contributing to the noise. It’s an episode full of insight, debate, and the no-holds-barred energy you expect from The QNow, airing live on 1280 KYRO Fox News. Tune in and join the conversation!
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The QNow - 639 - U Can't See Me
03/12/2025
The QNow - 639 - U Can't See Me
Ready for a fiery mix of government shakeups and presidential zingers? Tune in to the latest episode of THEQNOW.COM, where hosts Mark Bland and Jason Kull bring their razor-sharp takes and unstoppable energy to the mic. Joined by guests Evan Scheper and Matt Williams, this crew delivers a discussion that’s as bold as it gets. First up, they tackle the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—the agency shaking up Washington with moves like slashing thousands of government credit cards and stirring debates over transparency and power. Is DOGE cutting fat or overstepping bounds? Expect a no-holds-barred breakdown packed with sharp insights and a few sparks of humor. Then, things heat up with a Ranker review of the Fiercest Presidential Quotes! From jaw-dropping one-liners to historic mic-drops, the team ranks the boldest words ever spoken by U.S. presidents. It’s a wild ride through history—hilarious, fierce, and guaranteed to ignite some debate. Whether you’re hooked on government drama or love a good verbal showdown, this episode has it all. Mark Bland, Jason Kull, Evan Scheper, and Matt Williams make it a must-listen for anyone craving real talk with a punch. Head to THEQNOW.COM and catch the episode now—because conversations this fierce don’t come around every day!
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The QNow - 638 - Change is Coming
03/03/2025
The QNow - 638 - Change is Coming
On this episode of The Qnow, Don Looney returns to the scene of the crime from his last show and the boys are too excited to see him. First off the guys decide to discuss local web boards and the typr of people that are on them and how they should act. What should and shouldn't be posted as well as anything else that falls into the peripheral discussion, the guys tackle it. Next up it seems Russia is be coming best friends with the United States. After a recent yelling match at the White House with Zalensky, Donald Trump kicked the Ukrainian crew out of the White House and they left without a peace deal on the table. This shocked the rest of the world as they started to pour in with their opinions regarding NATO and Ukraine and the United States. Meanwhile Trump decided to try and make English the official national language of America.... Because that is more important than people dying in war. Finally Donald Trump decided to release the Epstein list. To do this he grabbed a bunch of social media influencers and flew them the Washington DC so that he could hand them big white binders with all of the pages redacted. Then they went out on TV like a WWE skit and pretended that they had gotten something important. But none of the influencers could hold back so they ended up posting all the stuff they got and everybody was completely disappointed. The guys finally talk about this. All this and much more on the newest episode of The Qnow.
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The QNow - 637 - It Matters to Me
02/24/2025
The QNow - 637 - It Matters to Me
First up, Mark Bland and Jasom Kull do a deep dive into Trumps latest decree of "Long Live the King". Trump seems to have forgotten that Washington and the forefathers specifically forbode there being a King because that is what caused all their issues in the first place. So why make the new place like the old place. So being a king was looked down on. But is it in 2025. There is a group of people so hell bent on being slaves to the rich that they are willing to cheer someone like Trump for these things. Mark warns everyone of the dangers of normalizing sensationalism as a joke or some thing of no real value. Eventually it becomes the norm. Next up is the special guests of the show. Liam and Aimee Robertson join the show to discuss the White House and the Missouri government to go after Section 504 Protections in the USA. A Lawsuit originating in Texas targeted section 504 because of their own states vague language that they want to apply in a weird way to LGBTQ, and more specific Trans children. The reasoning is just as foreign originating idea that there needs to be a law for helping our disabled ever. This sets of Mark and Jason....and....LIAM!!! Liam is excited to be on the show and lets everyone know where he stands and how he feels about the entire Section 504 discussion.
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The QNow - 636 - You're Not the President
02/20/2025
The QNow - 636 - You're Not the President
Here’s a cleaned-up and polished version of your podcast episode summary: On this episode of The QNow… It turns out Elon Musk is actually the president—at least according to a surprising source: his own 5-year-old son, Little X. After overhearing private conversations between Musk and Donald Trump, the child reportedly strolled into the Oval Office and declared that Trump needs to "shush his mouth" because he is not the President of the United States. Mark and Jason break down the implications of this unexpected revelation and how, as fathers, they recognize when kids are simply repeating what they hear at home. Plus, the hosts revisit a key moment from Trump’s first term—when CNN and other major networks began cutting away from his press conferences as he spewed falsehoods and nonsense. No matter where you stand politically, one thing is clear: Trump’s presidency has been a disaster, not just in the eyes of political analysts, world leaders, and everyday Americans—but even in the judgment of a 5-year-old. Meanwhile, Elon Musk remains glued to Trump’s side, despite not being the VP. That honor goes to JD Vance—who, let’s be honest, has become the biggest cuck in politics, while Musk steals the spotlight week after week. All this and more, on The QNow!
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The Qnow - 635- Prime Real Estate
02/10/2025
The Qnow - 635- Prime Real Estate
On this epsiode of the show, Mark and Jason are once again joined by John Scheper from 105.3 KYRO! First up the guys discuss Trump explaining to the world that the USA was going to go in and take over Gaza. Of course the rest of the earth laughed and told him he was crazy but with Israel sitting next to him doubling down...it's hard to believe that it will not happen. The gentlemen discuss the entire situation. Then Mark and Jason discuss the USAID closure with Schep. USAID is a governemtn agency that helped with internetional development. But like everything in MAGALand it starts with conspiracy and then they go "WE don't like that" and shut it down. Ruining peoples lives, making the US look worse and putting the country on the fast track to losing everything. We voted for this? Finally, The SuperBowl is around the corner and there are foods that different parts of the country like to rock with. We put Jason kull to the test and try to find out if he knows what makes for a good superbowl catering line or not! Plus there are always prop bets with the SuperBowl...will Tavis ask Tay Tay to marry him and much more! We also find out would jay bet on the props and what are the chances they come true!
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The QNow - 634 - Chaos has Consequences
02/03/2025
The QNow - 634 - Chaos has Consequences
In their latest episode, and of the explored several critical events. They delved into the tragic , a that took , discussing the aftermath, ongoing investigations, and . The hosts provided a detailed look at the incident, drawing from reports by , NPR, and . They also tackled the nomination of , analyzing his past roles and what his appointment might mean for and . Mark and Jason offered a balanced view, considering both the support Patel has and the criticisms against him. Lastly, they assessed during his , discussing , media interactions, and the to his early moves. They pondered how these actions might shape his administration's future direction. This episode is packed with insightful commentary, and Mark Bland and Jason Kull do an excellent job of navigating these complex topics. Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review and share the link to help spread the discussion. Find the podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-q-now/id955011017
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the QNow - 633 - A Salute to Magic
01/28/2025
the QNow - 633 - A Salute to Magic
Mark Bland and Jason Kull welcomed guest Keegan Emmert, a talented magician and mentalist, to the show for an engaging and thought-provoking episode. Alongside Keegan's fascinating insights into the world of magic and mentalism, the hosts tackled a disturbing news story that highlights the dangers of Donald Trump's reckless pardons. The episode focused on Andrew Taake, a January 6th insurrectionist pardoned by Trump, who is now wanted for soliciting a minor in Texas. Taake’s troubling history includes assaulting a police officer during the Capitol riot and a prior charge for soliciting a minor in 2016. Despite these serious offenses, Trump’s pardon allowed him to evade accountability, putting public safety at risk. Mark and Jason offered their unflinching commentary on how incidents like this validate concerns raised by Democrats about Trump’s unrepentant supporters. The discussion shed light on the ongoing repercussions of these decisions and their implications for justice and public safety. With Keegan’s captivating performance and sharp analysis of current events, this episode delivered a mix of entertainment and hard-hitting commentary that will leave listeners both amazed and informed.
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The QNow - 632 - Don't Ban Me Bro
01/21/2025
The QNow - 632 - Don't Ban Me Bro
In the latest episode of The QNow podcast, hosts Mark Bland and Jason Kull tackle a range of engaging topics. They delve into Elon Musk's influence on politics, examining his connection with Donald Trump and how his decisions have shaped public perception and governance. The conversation then turns to Vivek Ramaswamy, who recently announced his departure from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The hosts discuss his potential motivations, including aspirations for a gubernatorial run, and analyze the impact of his exit on DOGE's mission. Mark and Jason also critique local media personalities, highlighting instances of unprofessionalism and its broader effects on public trust in the media industry. The episode concludes with a lighthearted discussion about the top movies of the 1990s, reflecting on the decade's standout films and their enduring cultural impact.
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