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.

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.

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!

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.