Tangle

President Donald Trump began his second term on Monday with a series of executive actions, memos and announcements, signing 26 executive orders, 12 memoranda, and four proclamations on his first day alone. Broadly, these actions focused onrestricting immigration and asylum, redirecting the nation’s energy policies, changing and curtailing federal employment practices, issuing high-profile pardons, reversing Biden-era executive orders and policies, and more.Ad-free podcasts are here!Many listeners have been asking for an ad-free version of this podcast that they could subscribe to — and we finally launched it. You can go to tanglemedia.supercast.com to sign up!You can read today's podcast⁠ ⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠, our “Under the Radar” story ⁠here and today’s “Have a nice day” story ⁠here⁠.Take the survey: What do you think of President Trump’s executive orders? Let us know!You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Our podcast is written by Isaac Saul and edited and engineered by Dewey Thomas. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75. Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Will Kaback, Bailey Saul, Sean Brady, and produced in conjunction with Tangle’s social media manager Magdalena Bokowa, who also created our logo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a whirlwind of activity, Joe Biden made headlines during his final days in office with record-setting pardons and executive orders. His decision to commute nearly 2,500 sentences sparked debate over his legacy and the power of the presidency. Reactions were mixed, with intense backlash from Republicans and varied viewpoints from lawmakers regarding his pardons. As Biden addressed misinformation and nestled into history, his farewell illuminated the impact of his administration amid a transitioning political landscape.

Get ready for a heartwarming announcement about a first child's birth! The discussion centers on the joy of new beginnings and the supportive journey of pregnancy. There’s a strong emphasis on teamwork as the host shares his decision to take paternity leave, showcasing gratitude towards the community for their collaboration during this special time. It's a celebration of family and support that resonates with everyone.

The podcast dives into the historic inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th president, highlighting the striking moments of the ceremony. It contrasts his inaugural rhetoric, which evolved to a more hopeful tone. There's a discussion on the implications of his agenda and the immediate actions taken on his first day, including executive orders. Additionally, the hosts analyze the complexities surrounding Trump's return to office, touching on public perception, market reactions, and the evolving relationship with big tech.

Sharon McMahon, a New York Times bestselling author and educator known for her work in civic engagement, shares her inspiring journey from classroom teacher to influential advocate. She discusses the impact of COVID-19 on political trust, the complexities of individualism in governance, and the need for electoral reforms. McMahon also dives into the dynamics shaping the 2024 elections and highlights critical issues like immigration that will influence political discourse in 2025. Her insights aim to foster a deeper understanding of today's political landscape.

Dive into intriguing discussions about the health effects of raw milk and listener feedback. Explore the nuances of A1 vs A2 milk proteins and the ongoing debates surrounding lactose intolerance. The conversation shifts to the complex dynamics of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and political purity tests, revealing ideological divides. Enjoy a fun trivia game, alongside reflections on the power of language in political discourse, loyalty to country versus government, and the challenges of communicating in a polarized environment.

The podcast explores a new framework for assessing the Trump administration's promises and performance metrics. It highlights economic indicators like GDP growth and employment rates, emphasizing consumer confidence. The discussion includes tracking key promises related to Social Security and international conflicts. Additionally, it addresses challenges such as Middle East ceasefire attempts and proposed tariffs. The team sets benchmarks to evaluate progress over the next few years, creating an interactive approach for listeners.

A recent ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas offers a glimmer of hope amid ongoing conflict. The agreement, which aims to address humanitarian needs, remains uncertain as Israeli officials deliberate. The podcast dives into political implications, the skepticism surrounding the ceasefire, and its potential impact on U.S. foreign policy. Attention is also given to the historical parallels in Middle Eastern diplomacy and the complexities of hostage exchanges. Optimism for peace is juxtaposed with pressing humanitarian concerns in Gaza.

The Senate confirmation hearings for defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth sparked intense questioning on women in combat and his controversial past. Democrats pushed hard against his record, while Republicans defended his military qualifications. The scrutiny revealed stark political divides and raised critical questions about military leadership and diversity initiatives. Meanwhile, amidst the political tension, a touching zoo project showcased creativity in repurposing Christmas trees for animal enrichment, offering a rare lighthearted contrast.

The podcast dives into Trump's bold ambition to acquire Greenland, highlighting its strategic importance for U.S. national security. Political reactions are scrutinized, particularly from Democrats and European allies who are concerned about territorial expansion. There's a fascinating examination of Greenland's historical ties and burgeoning aspirations for independence. Additionally, the conversation touches on the potential benefits of strengthening U.S. relations with Greenland, including citizenship implications and ecological solutions regarding its resources.