

Compact Podcast
Compact
Geoff Shullenberger, Ashley Frawley, and Matthew Schmitz discuss current events.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 6, 2025 • 42min
The Rise of Dark Woke
Trump plans to redevelop Gaza and poses a tariff stand-off with Mexico and Canada, and Dark Woke arises. Ashley Frawley and Geoff Shullenberger join Matthew Schmitz. Compact Magazine is reader-supported. Become a member and gain unlimited access. https://compactmag.com/subscribe

Jan 28, 2025 • 55min
Turning the Cold Shoulder
The confirmations hearing for Tulsi Gabbard and RFK Jr. begin, and a woman is sued in France for refusing to have sex with her husband. Ashley Frawley and Geoff Shullenberger join Matthew Schmitz. Compact Magazine is reader-supported. Become a member and gain unlimited access. https://compactmag.com/subscribe

Jan 21, 2025 • 45min
Who swore it best?
Trump is inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States, and the team breaks everything down from the attendees to the fashion. Ashley Frawley and Geoff Shullenberger join Matthew Schmitz. Compact Magazine is reader-supported. Become a member and gain unlimited access. https://compactmag.com/subscribe

Jan 17, 2025 • 45min
Compact Conversations: Chris Cutrone
Chris Cutrone joins Geoff Shullenberger to discuss his new Compact piece "The Future Belongs to America. So Should Greenland." https://www.compactmag.com/article/the-future-belongs-to-america-so-should-greenland/ Compact Magazine is reader-supported. Become a member and gain unlimited access. https://compactmag.com/subscribe

Jan 16, 2025 • 50min
Vibe Shift 2.0
The wildfires rage on in LA and corporate America undergoes a vibe shift in the aftermath of Trump's re-election. Ashley Frawley and Geoff Shullenberger join Matthew Schmitz. Compact Magazine is reader-supported. Become a member and gain unlimited access. https://compactmag.com/subscribe

11 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 45min
Trump's Taming or Triumph?
Justin Trudeau's resignation sparks a discussion on the rise of right-wing populism and the evolving landscape of political leadership. The podcast delves into Trump's expansionist ambitions, connecting them to America's historical context. It tackles Canada's national identity and explores how contemporary politics intertwines with systemic exploitation and the failures of authorities. The conversation exposes the cynicism of political opportunism, particularly regarding societal neglect of vulnerable groups, revealing a complex narrative of ambition, identity, and exploitation.

Jan 3, 2025 • 1h 1min
License to Resist
A shocking terror attack in New Orleans raises questions about the mental health of veterans reintegrating into society. The discussion shifts to the contentious H-1B visa debate, revealing deep divides in American politics over immigration and economic priorities. As the concept of political resistance fades, the challenges of cohesive dissent are examined, exploring the fragmentation within movements. Additionally, a provocative analysis connects ancient heritage to modern governance, sparking skepticism about contemporary political narratives.

Dec 20, 2024 • 49min
Compact Conversations: Gord Magill
Gord Magill, a keen observer of Canadian politics and a Compact contributor, shares insights on the evolving dynamic between Trump and Canada. He discusses the implications of U.S. policies on Canadian democracy, reflecting on how progressive movements can undermine freedoms. Gord critiques the challenges faced by temporary workers in Canada and the ineffective leadership haunting both major political parties. The conversation also touches on how populism influences political discourse, alongside a light-hearted mention of Canadian Christmas traditions.

Dec 18, 2024 • 50min
The Christmas Wars Strike Back
The discussion kicks off with a CNN video about a Syrian captive, probing media portrayal and its holiday timing. They critique how major outlets shape narratives around military interventions. As Christmas approaches, they tackle festive greetings and the cultural shift toward inclusivity. The charm of cheesy Hallmark movies offers a cozy escape, while classic films like 'Love Actually' are re-evaluated. The podcast also digs into the darker sides of Christmas cinema, blending horror with holiday themes for a fascinating twist.

5 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 49min
Farewell to Arms
Bashar al-Assad is ousted from Syria, Daniel Penny is acquitted, and the assassin of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson is found. Ashley Frawley, Sohrab Ahmari, and Geoff Shullenberger join Matthew Schmitz. Compact Magazine is reader-supported. Become a member and gain unlimited access. https://compactmag.com/subscribe