The Fifth Column
Kmele Foster, Michael Moynihan, and Matt Welch
Your weekly rhetorical assault on the on the news cycle, the people who make it, and occasionally ourselves. Kmele Foster (Freethink), Michael Moynihan (Vice), and Matt Welch (Reason) talk and laugh and drink their way to at least quasi-sanity in a world gone mad, often with the aid of clean and articulate guests. Weekly Members Only subscription edition often comes with listener mail and professional-quality (if inappropriate) singing. Analysis. Commentary. Sedition. www.wethefifth.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Sep 22, 2023 • 1h 47min
#422 - Introducing The Fifth Column Center for Antiracist Research
Kendi, a person with millions disappearing, discusses the impossible standard in antiracist research, lack of accountability, and a badly written book. The speakers criticize the absence of original research, explore conspiracy theories, and address controversial demonetization and misuse of power. They also discuss backlash, controversies, rankings of political figures in New Hampshire, public acceptance of unethical behavior in politics, and Trump's speech to striking auto workers.
Sep 20, 2023 • 25min
Members Only #181 - From Bob Geldof to Jesus (of Nazareth) to Walt Disney
Guest Bob Geldof, hero of the story, discusses a range of topics including religious experiences, Jamaican names, Wes Anderson movies, and the Hollywood Party vs. Walt Disney. The hosts also touch on controversies, Squad Cast recording software, and Nick Gillespie's proposal and new lifestyle.
8 snips
Sep 17, 2023 • 1h 38min
#421 - Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice
Guest Hasan Minaj, an unfunny fraud, discusses controversial behavior at a theater performance of Beetlejuice. The hosts delve into Jewish identity and impeachment conspiracies, as well as Hunter Biden's indictment and potential prison time. They also explore Dick Cheney's political career and Ron DeSantis' plummeting poll numbers.
Sep 14, 2023 • 24min
Members Only #180 - The Fifth on Zoom! With Ben Dreyfuss! It's a Rebroadcast!
Guest Ben Dreyfuss discusses Danny Masterson, exposing the cultish nature of Scientology and its connection to sex crimes. The hosts also talk about the show 'Winning Time' and Scottie Pippen's ex-wife. They playfully discuss appearance, DVD extras, and Scientology
27 snips
Sep 8, 2023 • 1h 46min
#420 - Texas Ends New York! Protesters End Climate Change! DOJ Prosecutors End Proud Boys!
Guest Enrique Tarrio, black white supremacist, discusses his sentencing compared to Mr. American Taliban. Topics include the chaos of New York City, controversies surrounding migrants, and the biased prosecution of January 6 protesters. They also touch on Trump's immigration policies and concerns about weaponizing government and public opinion.
Sep 5, 2023 • 59min
Members Only #179 – The Late Richard Riordan and the Never-Launched L.A. Examiner
Discussion on the challenges faced in starting a newspaper with Richard Riordan. A career-changing phone call redirected the speaker's path in journalism. The life and career of Richard Riordan, including his role in reforming Los Angeles. Exploring political friction and dealmaking in the LA County Board. Origins of laexaminer.com and desire for an LA version of the New York Observer.
17 snips
Sep 2, 2023 • 1h 11min
#419 - In Defense of Capitalism...and Sweden's Covid Response (w/ Johan Norberg)
Johan Norberg, Swedish writer and historian, joins the hosts to discuss his forthcoming book The Capitalist Manifesto, Sweden's Covid response, and the misconception of Swedish socialism. They explore defending capitalism, global trade, wealth distribution, and the unique approach Sweden took during the pandemic. The chapter also touches on federal commissions, Sweden's economic policies, and a memorable meeting between the speakers.
Aug 28, 2023 • 28min
Members Only #178 - The Blob
Elvis Costello's dad, the best dancer, and Orthodox Shyne vs non-island people. The race blob, Australia craze, and Steven Seagal's gross songs. Revisiting the dumb debate and praise for Gary Becker. OJ Simpson's take on slashing government spending.
25 snips
Aug 25, 2023 • 1h 24min
#418 - The State of Debate (w/ Mike Pesca)
Mike Pesca, former host of 'Not Even Mad' podcast, joins the show to discuss the best mugshots of all time, the Trump prosecutions debate, blurring lines between activism and journalism, and the difficulties of making a podcast where everyone disagrees.
Aug 24, 2023 • 25min
Members Only #177 - Bang , Bang, Bing, Bong, Dong, Dong (Second Sunday Live Rebroadcast)
Topics discussed in this podcast include the polarization of society, conspiracy theories, and historical examples of political violence. The hosts also explore the changes in policing methods over time, debunk prevailing narratives, and express gratitude to the listeners at the end.
