The Daily Zeitgeist
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There’s more news and less comprehension today than any historical period that didn’t involve literal witch trials, and trying to stay on top of it all can feel like playing a game of telephone with 30 people, except everyone’s speaking at the same time and like a third of them are openly racist for some reason. From Cracked co-founder Jack O’Brien, THE DAILY ZEITGEIST is stepping into that fray with some of the funniest and smartest comedic and journalistic minds around. Jack and co-host Miles Gray spend up to an hour every weekday sorting through the events and stories driving the headlines, to help you find the signal in the noise, with a few laughs thrown in for free.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 19, 2026 • 57min
Oops... All Overrated / Underrated! 1.16.26
In a playful special segment for MLK Jr. Day, the hosts dive into the world of overrated and underrated topics. They rave about the resurgence of advice columns and the excitement around new cereals like Demogorgon Crunch. The critique of Squid Game raises questions on audience engagement, while a guest champions Vaseline over fancy lip products. Lost romantic gestures and the joy of buying landscaping rocks also spark laughter. Finally, they discuss how billion-dollar blockbusters may overshadow storytelling.
Jan 18, 2026 • 60min
Weekly Zeitgeist 414 (Best of 1/12/26-1/16/26)
Journalist and historian James Stout shares insights from his book on anarchists and revolutions. He examines how authoritarian rhetoric escalates, often labeling dissenters as terrorists. Stout draws parallels between protests in Myanmar, Syria, and Iran, highlighting tactics of young activists navigating state violence. The discussion also touches on the impacts of isolation on society and dark humor surrounding trending apps and cultural phenomena. A blend of serious reflection and comedic sketches makes for a captivating conversation.
Jan 16, 2026 • 1h 10min
Sinners X Marty Supreme Mashup, Piss Beats Ice 01.16.26
Vince Mancini, a sharp film critic known for his work on Film Drunk, joins comedian Pallavi Gunalan for a hilarious discussion. They riff on Trump's bizarre fixation with Greenland and the $40 million Melania documentary that’s become an online meme. Vince shares insights on how Marty Supreme almost morphed into a vampire movie, while the trio mock the disastrous morale at ICE, dissecting both absurd news clips and the public's reaction to protests. Tune in for their witty takes on the intersections of politics and pop culture!
Jan 15, 2026 • 28min
This Is Your Brain On Trends 1/15: ICE Shooting, Kristi Noem, EPA, FBI, Plato
Pallavi Gunalan, a stand-up comedian and writer, joins Jack O’Brien for a lively discussion covering urgent current events. They tackle the recent ICE shooting in Minnesota and the ensuing protests. The conversation shifts to Kristi Noem's potential impeachment and the EPA's controversial new business-friendly rules that undermine human life valuation. The duo also critiques the FBI's raids on journalists' homes, raising urgent concerns around press freedom, and highlights Texas A&M's censorship of Plato, reflecting on the growing trend of book bans.
Jan 15, 2026 • 1h 8min
What’s A Regime? Between Two Swastikas 01.15.26
Francesca Fiorentini, a comedian and journalist known for her sharp commentary on immigration and politics, joins the discussion. They humorously dissect Senator Markwayne Mullin's confusion about regime changes and explore RFK Jr.'s eyebrow-raising interview on a controversial podcast. Francesca shares her insights on tracking ICE abuses and the community responses to them. The team also critiques the Democrats' donor-driven strategies and argues about the need for more substantial changes in ICE policies versus mere reforms.
Jan 14, 2026 • 22min
Foucault's Trenderang 1/14: Trump vs. Ford Workers, CBS Evening News, Tariff Checks, Olds vs. Youngs
The hosts dive into Trump's Ford plant visit, highlighting a surprising confrontation with a worker. They critique CBS Evening News, pointing out awkward moments and declining ratings. The confusion over Trump's $2,000 tariff checks sparks an intriguing discussion. They also explore the impact of older workers in politics, questioning how their long tenures affect job opportunities for younger generations. The analysis extends to the challenges younger workers face in a hiring landscape that favors experience, calling attention to the implications of aging leadership.
Jan 14, 2026 • 1h 8min
The “Are You Dead?” App, Huffing Zohran Fumes To Get By 01.14.26
Blake Wexler, a comedian and actor known for his sharp humor, joins the hosts for a lively discussion. They dive into the viral 'Are You Dead?' app that's taking over, exploring its links to loneliness in modern living. The trio shares hilarious anecdotes about underrated household items and takes on the bizarre claims surrounding Havana Syndrome in Venezuela. They also tackle the backlash against the Stranger Things finale, wondering if ChatGPT had a hand in the controversy. Blake wraps up with info on his latest comedy shows!
Jan 13, 2026 • 24min
The Trend Shop by 2 Zeit Crew 1/13: Democrats, ICE, Star Wars
Join comedian Mort Burke, known for his podcast Rebrand and his special Spiritually Filthy, as he teams up with Jack to dive into hot topics. They tackle the Democrats' failure to abolish ICE, examining their historical hesitations and public opinions. The conversation then shifts to Disney’s handling of the Star Wars franchise, analyzing why creativity has struggled since its acquisition. Mort shares insights on corporate decision-making stifling artistic quality while contrasting quality projects like Andor with less impactful releases.
Jan 13, 2026 • 1h 3min
Don’t Get The Right Impression, MAGA Halftime “Show” 01.13.26
James Stout, a journalist and historian, joins the discussion by diving into the complexities of narrative control in politics. He critiques Kristi Noem's CNN appearance and highlights the dangers of labeling protesters as terrorists. Stout draws global parallels to movements in Myanmar and Syria, emphasizing how peaceful dissent can quickly escalate. The conversation humorously shifts to Turning Point USA’s extravagant Super Bowl halftime reveal, with speculation on production quality and celebrity involvement, blending serious topics with light-hearted banter.
Jan 13, 2026 • 1h 12min
FA Kush
This week, the hosts dive into the excitement of the FA Cup Third Round, highlighting emotional upsets and standout performances. Nostalgic tales of Purple Nightclub and the laughter over fake IDs bring a fun twist. They critique Tottenham's struggles while celebrating Arsenal and Liverpool’s notable moments. The discussion touches on transfer gossip, managerial instability, and La Liga drama, all while imagining unconventional coaching ideas. It’s a lively analysis of football culture, complete with passionate fan reactions and player highlights!
