

5-4
Prologue Projects
5-4 is a podcast about how much the Supreme Court sucks. Hosted by Peter Shamshiri, Rhiannon Hamam, and Michael Liroff, it's a progressive and occasionally profane take on the ideological battles at the heart of the Court's most important landmark cases and an irreverent tour of all the ways in which the law is shaped by politics.Subscribe to our premium episodes & much more at fivefourpod.com/support5-4 is a production of Prologue Projects.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 5, 2024 • 5min
Movie Review: My Cousin Vinny [TEASER]
Dive into the charm of a courtroom classic as the hosts unpack My Cousin Vinny with humor and wit. They explore the cultural clash between New Yorkers and Alabamians, shedding light on the film's comedic brilliance and social commentary. Election Day anxiety meets delightful film nostalgia, making for an entertaining discussion that promises to keep listeners laughing and reflecting on important themes.

Oct 29, 2024 • 48min
Elon Musk’s War on Workers
A deep dive into the war on labor rights by America's wealthiest elites reveals troubling insights. The discussion touches on how the Supreme Court may influence workers' rights amid political tensions and the ominous potential of a second Trump presidency. With humorous anecdotes about fast food juxtaposed against serious corporate struggles, the episode critiques major companies like Amazon and SpaceX. The need for renewed focus on worker concerns is emphasized, highlighting the political implications of ongoing labor disputes.

Oct 22, 2024 • 51min
The Coming Battle Over Reproductive Rights
The chaotic aftermath of the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision unfolds, revealing a landscape of shifting reproductive rights. State laws are in turmoil, as grassroots movements ignite political resistance. Legal battles intensify, especially over abortion medication and workplace rights for pregnant workers. Tensions rise between religious freedoms and employer responsibilities in health accommodations. Amidst this, a critique of government priorities sheds light on the historical power dynamics affecting marginalized groups.

Oct 8, 2024 • 48min
Mackenzie v. Hare
Dive into the complexities of U.S. citizenship laws, especially through the lens of the Mackenzie v. Hare case, revealing the challenges faced by women marrying foreigners. Discover the historical legacy of marriage law and its impact on identity amidst today's immigration debates. The discussion boldly critiques anti-immigrant sentiment and the current political landscape, drawing eerie parallels to past discriminatory practices. It's a captivating blend of legal history and contemporary relevance that sheds light on the rights and struggles of individuals in America.

Oct 1, 2024 • 52min
2024-2025 Supreme Court Term Preview
Get ready for a deep dive into the burning issues facing the Supreme Court! The discussion heats up with critical cases on trans rights, election integrity, and gun control. Delve into the absurdity of ghost guns and the complexities of legal definitions. A controversial Texas law raises free speech questions, while the Richard Glossip case underscores serious flaws in the death penalty system. Plus, explore the impact of upcoming cases on citizenship rights and hear a poignant tribute to Marcellus Williams' tragic story.

Sep 24, 2024 • 5min
The Roberts One-Step (TEASER)
Discover the hidden dynamics of the Supreme Court as a deep investigation reveals Chief Justice John Roberts's surprising influence on Trump-related cases. Uncover the complexities of internal communications that challenge his image as a moderate. This exposé raises critical questions about the transparency and integrity of the judicial process during a pivotal election year.

Sep 17, 2024 • 43min
Securities and Exchange Commission v. Jarkesy
The podcast dives into the Supreme Court case challenging the right to a jury trial for white-collar criminals. It discusses the implications of the Dodd-Frank Act and the SEC's evolving role in financial regulation. The hosts dissect the tension between Congress and the judiciary, highlighting systemic inequities in prosecuting securities fraud. They also critique modern right-wing politics, revealing its hypocrisy regarding anti-establishment sentiments. Intriguing political antics and potential ethical breaches in government finish with a tease for upcoming legal discussions.

Sep 10, 2024 • 45min
United States v. Stanley
The podcast dives into the controversial Supreme Court case involving the legality of non-consensual drug testing on military personnel. It recounts the haunting experiences of James Stanley, who became an unwitting subject in a government LSD experiment. The discussion critiques historical military practices, emphasizing the ethical implications of programs like MKUltra. It also addresses accountability in military experimentation and the erosion of public trust due to a lack of transparency from intelligence agencies. Humorous insights pepper the conversation, keeping it engaging.

Sep 3, 2024 • 1h 2min
Welcome to Law School 2024
Dive into the wild world of law school with a hilarious critique of the absurd challenges faced by first-year students. Discover how changing views on prestige are shaping diverse career paths, while the financial burden and competitive culture create stress and ethical dilemmas. Unpack the infamous Socratic method and its mixed effectiveness in teaching critical thinking. Finally, learn tips for managing time and expectations, all wrapped in humorous anecdotes that make the daunting journey of legal education feel a bit lighter.

Aug 27, 2024 • 5min
Biden, Harris, and the Future of Court Reform (TEASER)
Dive into President Biden's bold Supreme Court reform proposals and their potential impact. The discussion looks at the shifting political landscape and speculates on how these changes might be received by both parties. Additionally, Kamala Harris's rising influence in shaping the Democratic approach to court reform is explored. Expect insights that could shape the future of the judiciary!


