Walter Kirn, Editor-at-large of County Highway, shares his insights from attending RFK Jr.'s confirmation hearings. He discusses the unprecedented public enthusiasm and emotional intensity surrounding the event. Kirn contrasts political performances to magic shows, revealing systemic corruption and the illusions built around power. He also examines how societal dynamics, like Stockholm Syndrome, affect public perceptions of authority. The conversation dives into the complexities of vaccines and personal integrity amidst the pandemic's challenges, urging a critical re-evaluation of accepted narratives.

Ray Romano, Laura Coates, and Walter Kirn join the podcast to discuss Italian family stereotypes, racial segregation, trigger warnings on conservative op-eds, publishing controversies, Hunter Biden, Bradley Cooper, true crime podcasts, NSA monitoring, Die Hard as a Christmas film, changes in Bethlehem, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Michael Knowles, host of The Daily Wire's "Michael Knowles Show," discusses how CBS celebrated censorship in Europe and highlights the decline of journalistic integrity. Journalist Matt Taibbi critiques media credibility, especially surrounding the Trump administration and press access. Author Walter Kirn shares insights on societal expectations regarding women and careers. The conversation takes a shocking turn with aviation experts analyzing a Delta flight crash, revealing how luck and technology played crucial roles in survival.

Novelist, essayist, and editor-at-large of County Highway newspaper Walter Kirn discusses starting a print-only paper centered on the middle of the country. They delve into the loss of touch with the country during Covid, the importance of reading in a non-tracking media, and the orchestration of pandemic responses by privileged individuals. They cover the gender division caused by the toilet paper shortage, the use of irony for social control, and the skepticism towards Covid restrictions.

Geoffrey Cain, an expert on national security, argues that banning TikTok is crucial to counter authoritarian influence due to its data collection practices. Walter Kirn, a novelist and critic, warns that such a ban threatens user free speech and represents government overreach. They debate the balance between national security and civil liberties, explore the implications of TikTok's foreign ownership, and question whether the fears surrounding the app are genuine or merely a modern moral panic.

Ray Romano, Laura Coates, and Walter Kirn discuss topics such as the impact of weight loss drugs, the success of 'Everybody Loves Raymond', challenges for stand-up comedians, sports investments, Trump's immunity claim, and the shift in polling numbers for the 2020 Democratic candidates.

Walter Kirn, a celebrated novelist and journalist best known for "Up in the Air," dives deep into his Midwestern roots, reflecting on a whimsical childhood filled with colorful characters. He shares his transformative experience of attending Princeton, contrasting it with his humble upbringing. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as Kirn recounts watching Obama and Trump speeches on LSD, revealing perceptions of American identity, the struggles of rural towns after NAFTA, and the unexpected complexity of Midwestern populism.

Walter Kirn, a sharp analyst known for his insights into media and culture, discusses the Tim Walz rollout with humor and depth. He examines the unique Midwestern political landscape, comparing figures like Walz and J.D. Vance. The conversation delves into generational dynamics and media portrayals, alongside critical reflections on the TSA’s 'Quiet Skies' surveillance program. Kirn also questions the authenticity of joy in political rhetoric, drawing parallels with American literature and urging a more genuine political engagement.

Mike Baker, a former CIA covert operations officer, and Walter Kirn, best-selling author and cultural critic, dive into the catastrophic failures of California leadership during recent wildfires. They discuss the alarming implications of budget cuts and mismanagement that exacerbated the crisis. The conversation takes a turn to the broader cultural landscape, analyzing how woke policies affect governance and women's sports, and highlighting the complex relationship between gender identity and activism. Tune in for sharp insights and thought-provoking commentary!

Reporter Michael Tracey, Journalist Matt Taibbi, and Author Walter Kirn discuss a wide range of topics, including divine intervention, Trump's redemption arc, political dynamics in the Republican Party, and the analysis of Democratic and Republican party strategies for the election.