The Fifth Column

Mary Katharine Ham, a political commentator and journalist, dives into the evolving landscape of U.S. foreign policy and Trump-era dynamics. They discuss the dramatic impact of Trump's Knesset speech and the emotional return of Israeli hostages. Exploring the shift in party attitudes towards Israel, Ham critiques political messaging and the influencer model in politics. The conversation also touches on the complexities of a potential second Trump administration and what could come next for the GOP. Expect sharp insights and lively banter!

Hot takes on Hollywood shakeups spark lively debates among the hosts. They delve into the complexities of separating art from artists, discussing figures like John Cusack and Susan Sarandon. Anecdotes about Ben Dreyfuss and reflections on the MeToo movement add an intriguing layer to their conversation. Plus, listener feedback on a controversial Megyn Kelly interview ignites discussion about interview styles and combativeness. A nostalgic revisit to 'Stand By Me' questions how a director’s politics influence their classics.

Hosts banter about everything from toothpaste shirts to whiskey while tackling serious topics like Antifa's threat level and media coverage of protests. They dive into Israel-Gaza dynamics, discussing hostage strategies and the potential for Trump to broker peace. The conversation also touches on governmental shutdown impacts, media shakeups with Barry Weiss, and controversial debates around racial language in journalism. Throughout, they add a humorous twist with anecdotes about shock culture and offensive music.

The guest is Russ Roberts, an economist and the eminent host of the EconTalk podcast, celebrated for his deep dives into culture and economics. In a captivating talk, Russ shares his insights on the production processes behind everyday items like potato chips. He discusses the tension between artisanal and mass production, reflects on historical economic lessons to avoid bad policy, and shares his experiences living in Israel. Russ also emphasizes the importance of kindness in persuasion and the enduring relevance of economic thinkers like Hayek and Smith.

Megyn Kelly, a former network news anchor turned independent podcaster, dives deep into her controversial experiences in media. She shares how leaving legacy media and daily current events shaped her strong opinions. Megyn discusses her complicated views on Trump and the GOP, while distinguishing herself from traditional conservatives. She critiques partisan politics and emphasizes the importance of free expression. Her personal evolution and plans for the future showcase her commitment to fostering diverse conservative dialogues.

Luke Kemp, an author and researcher focused on societal collapse, dives into the intriguing dynamics of empires and their downfall. He explores the sudden rise and fall of Cahokia, highlighting its mounds and rapid disappearance. Kemp reveals how human sacrifice served as a tool for elite power, and discusses how agricultural practices contributed to societal formations. He challenges popular notions of pre-state violence, showcasing evidence that suggests it peaked during state emergence and collapse. Kemp advocates for the health advantages of hunter-gatherer lifestyles over settled agriculture.

The hosts dive into hilarious tales of rough mornings and unexpected consequences from Polish vodka. They discuss the quirky charm of Alex Jones while debating the reactions of college students to political figures. A special upcoming live show with Megyn Kelly is teased, alongside quirky anecdotes from past performances. You'll hear about bizarre topics like Nazi beekeepers and the unforgettable charm of past guests. Plus, prepare for a unique LA event blending science and psychedelics!

John Spencer, the Executive Director of the Urban Warfare Institute and a veteran with 25 years of service, dives deep into urban combat scenarios in Gaza and Ukraine. He discusses the complexities of fighting an enemy embedded in civilian populations, unpacking the tactics of Hamas and the implications for lawful military responses. Spencer also critiques media portrayals of modern warfare and highlights the importance of accurate casualty reporting. His insights into urban defense strategies and the evolving dynamics of warfare provide a compelling lens on current conflicts.

Greg Lukianoff, president of FIRE and a staunch advocate for free speech, dives into the latest crises surrounding expression, including the fallout from the Jimmy Kimmel firing. He sheds light on the subtle differences between coercion and principles of free speech, bringing attention to the concerning trends among youth regarding political violence. With sharp insights on the impact of political pressures, Lukianoff provides a thought-provoking discussion on why protecting free speech is more crucial than ever.

Thor Halvorsson, founder of the Human Rights Foundation and Venezuelan activist whose mother was shot during protests, shares his insights on Venezuela's troubling transformation into a narco-state under Hugo Chavez. He delves into the complexities of US responses to corruption and drug trafficking, questioning the effectiveness of international interventions. Halvorsson also highlights the Venezuelan exodus, the risks dissidents face, and the failures of the UN's approach to human rights, painting a stark picture of resilience in the midst of chaos.