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
Oct 16, 2023 • 34min
Members Only #185 - Radicalized by Radicals
The podcast discusses topics such as the radicalization of KF, being 'anti-war', radicalization in universities, the Israel-Palestine conflict, importing anti-Semitism to Europe, and media coverage and double standards.
8 snips
Oct 13, 2023 • 59min
#425 - The Nightmare Scenario (w/ Oren Kessler)
Israeli-American journalist and historian Oren Kessler discusses the current conflict in the Middle East and its historical roots. Topics include the impact of Hamas's murder spree, media coverage, the Arab Revolt of 1936, and the challenges of writing while angry. Plus, insights on the goals of Hamas and the need for comprehensive representation of the violence.
Oct 10, 2023 • 23min
Members Only #184 - Zoom Rebroadcast - On the Pogrom in Israel
In this episode, the hosts are joined by E to discuss the unfolding horror in Israel. They talk about living near the border, rocket attacks, and the disturbing videos circulating on social media. They also draw comparisons to the Holocaust, critique the portrayal of Hamas, and discuss the root causes of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
4 snips
Oct 6, 2023 • 1h 47min
#424 - w/ Rep. Peter Meijer - McCarthy and His Enemies
Rep. Peter Meijer, Former Michigan Rep., discusses his colleagues on the Hill, polarization, and the potential Speaker of the House. They also touch on progressive activists' murders, Trevor Bauer's controversy, and the importance of kindness.
Oct 4, 2023 • 59min
Members Only #183 - UNLOCKED - K&M Live in Philly
Kmele and Moynihan, hosts of The Fifth Column podcast, share their experiences as journalists and discuss topics such as footnotes authenticity, Vice's decline, recognizing plagiarism, and their evolution to anarcho-capitalist libertarians. They also talk about the lack of intellectual freedom in academia and emphasize the importance of free expression and maintaining a free society.
5 snips
Oct 3, 2023 • 1h 44min
#423 w/Josh Szeps - TED, Just Admit It
Josh Szeps, former host of the morning show Wake Up Ya C***s, joins the hosts to discuss the treatment of Coleman Hughes by TED, the politics of Australia's 'voice' referendum, Aussie identity politics, and the uncomfortable conversations on his podcast. They also explore the controversy surrounding a TED talk, moderation in TED, the vote for an indigenous advisory body, disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, and the late Norm McDonald.
Sep 25, 2023 • 24min
Members Only #182 - The Racist Wolf
Topics include Dion Sanders' audacious blackness, the argument of reflecting poorly on racial minorities and helping white supremacy, border-related news and the influx of migrants, and a Shabbat dinner conversation about the political implications of the migrant crisis.
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.
