The Daily Show: Ears Edition

The Precap | Michael Kosta on Russia Dropping a New Plague, and Vivek Ramaswamy Almost Dropping a Kid

Oct 5, 2026
Nicole Conlan, a Daily Show writer, producer, and co-host of The Climate Denier’s Playbook, joins Michael Kosta for a sharp news recap. They tackle bubonic plague in Russia, a bungled campaign photo-op involving Vivek Ramaswamy, Kristi Noem’s divorce drama, and an unexpected flu-shot alliance between Mamdani and Sliwa. Plus, a preview of upcoming conversations with Aaron Sorkin, Sebastian Stan, and Kyle MacLachlan.
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ANECDOTE

Ankle Recovery Takes Longer With Age

  • Michael Kosta’s ankle injuries keep exposing the limits of treating an aging body like a 20-year-old one.
  • An anesthesiologist told him recovery could take six to ten months, not the timeline he expected.
ANECDOTE

The Strange Specialist Who Fixed Nicole’s Ankle

  • Nicole Conlan repeatedly rolled her ankle until surgery repaired loose ligaments, cartilage damage, and a bone spur.
  • Her unusual specialist worked from a home living room and garage, but custom insoles ultimately stopped the injuries.
INSIGHT

Why Old Diseases Keep Coming Back

  • The bubonic plague remains treatable, yet outbreaks still provoke fear because bacteria can adapt and antibiotic resistance may complicate familiar diseases.
  • Michael Kosta connects emerging outbreaks to warming temperatures and increasing global connectivity.
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