Uncomfortable Conversations with Josh Szeps On Stage in NYC: Panel Show at the Comedy Cellar
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Jul 31, 2025 
Join Matt Welch and Kmele Foster, co-hosts of The Fifth Column podcast, for a fiery live panel at the Comedy Cellar. They discuss the evolving role of satire in politics and how humor can challenge authority. The duo tackles the media's collapse and the rise of podcasting as a news source. They debate the ethical dilemmas of platforming controversial voices while sharing hilarious anecdotes, including one about Epstein's Island. It’s a night of laughter, insightful critiques, and the absurdities of today's media landscape.
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South Park's Impartial Satire
- South Park remains funny by mocking everyone, not just one political side.
- This broad satire keeps it relevant and trusted across the political spectrum.
Media Collapse and Distrust
- Institutional media has massively collapsed in size and influence over decades.
- Trust in media is lower than Congress, driving massive competition for attention and fragmentation.
Conspiracy Content's Ambiguous Impact
- Sensational conspiracy content blurs lines between entertainment and belief.
- Figures like Tucker Carlson mix serious interviews with bizarre claims, confusing audiences.