The Gist

Jeff Maurer, a former writer for Last Week Tonight, digs into the nuances of today’s political landscape through the lens of humor. He examines the fears surrounding fascism in past and present times, and critiques John Oliver's use of straw men in political comedy. The conversation also touches on Jon Stewart's return to The Daily Show, exploring his evolution and attempts at balanced critique. Plus, they dive into the cultural dynamics of the U.S.-China trade battle, illuminating the stark contrasts in societal values.

Stephen Macedo, a Princeton professor and co-author of 'In COVID's Wake,' joins the discussion to explore how our political systems intensified the pandemic crisis. He examines the disconnect between experts and the public, highlighting the consequences of withheld knowledge. The conversation revisits misinformation challenges and critiques the lack of transparency in public health. They stress the significance of accountability and the need for diverse viewpoints in academia to rebuild public trust and improve health communication.

The authors of In Covid’s Wake: How Our Politics Failed Us, political scientists Stephen Macedo and Frances Lee, join for a full-show interview to discuss our failures during the pandemic. The evidence shows non-pharmaceutical interventions did nothing, but the tradeoff was trillions of dollars in deficit spending, lost learning and solitary deathbeds. Plus, Pete Hegseth may be leaking more than leadership; after his second round of Signal-based scheming, the veteran Fox-man-turned-defense-secretary is reportedly on the chopping block. Produced by Corey Wara Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/TheGist Subscribe to The Gist: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/ Subscribe to The Gist Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_g Subscribe to The Gist Instagram Page: GIST INSTAGRAM Follow The Gist List at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Michael Harte, a Professor at Oregon State University and former chief economist of the Falkland Islands, offers insights into trade dynamics and tariffs while lightening the mood with amusing wildlife anecdotes. They delve into the political ramifications of names and the media's handling of Kilmar Abrego Garcia's wrongful detention. Harte critiques the challenges small economies face in global trade and reflects on the quirky trivia of the 'Full Ginsburg,' connecting past events with modern political discourse.

Dive into the feathery fracas over chlorinated chicken as the UK grapples with American food standards. Explore the quirky world of UK chicken shops named after U.S. states, revealing culinary branding curiosities. From food safety debates to the sociopolitical implications of trade talks, tensions are simmering like a frying pan. Join the humorous exploration of cultural ties between the two nations as they squawk over style, substance, and the future of their poultry.

Comedian T.J. Miller joins this episode of Funny You Should Mention. You might know him from Silicon Valley, Deadpool, or that time he had a choice between brain surgery with a 10% fatality rate vs. almost surely dying by 35. It is the funniest conversation ever had with the phrase "10% fatality rate" hanging in the air. Also why T.J. insists that comedy should feel like jazz played on a flaming trampoline, and how to let a crowd set the course while always steering the ship. Produced by Corey Wara Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/TheGist Subscribe to The Gist: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/ Subscribe to The Gist Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_g Subscribe to The Gist Instagram Page: GIST INSTAGRAM Follow The Gist List at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bryan Green, host of the popular comedy podcast The Commercial Break, joins Boston Globe columnist Carine Hajjar for a lively discussion. They tackle the implications of Joe Rogan's platforming of antisemitic ideas and debate if Harvard should lose funding over viewpoint diversity concerns. The duo also critiques the absurdities of student driver bumper stickers and dissects the streaming landscape's current failures. Expect humor alongside thought-provoking insights as they navigate these pressing cultural issues.

Guests Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes, co-authors of 'Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House', dive into the chaotic dynamics of the Democratic Party as it braces for the 2024 election. They reveal the internal strife facing Biden and the pivotal challenges confronting Kamala Harris. The discussion also touches on historical campaign strategies and the necessity for unity within the party. Additionally, they reflect on the changing landscape of political reporting and the ethical dilemmas in campaign strategies.

Bruce Peabody, a political science professor and author, dives into the intriguing possibility of Trump running for a third term. He discusses the legal implications of this bid, including insights from the 22nd Amendment. The conversation also touches on the political strategy surrounding detaining an innocent man and the ramifications of the SAVE Act on voting rights for married women. Peabody's expertise sheds light on the intricate balance between constitutional eligibility and contemporary political dynamics.

Barry Nalebuff, a Yale professor and negotiation expert, dissects Trump’s unpredictable trade tactics. He analyzes the recent rollback of tariffs on Chinese electronics, questioning how these moves align with Trump's goals. The discussion delves into Trump’s negotiation style, highlighting the use of extreme positions for credibility. Nalebuff also tackles the uproar over chlorinated chicken in UK-U.S. trade talks, exploring the clash between scientific consensus and public perception of food safety.