The Gist

Kayla Scanlon, the coiner of 'vibe session' and author of 'In This Economy? How Money and Markets Really Work,' dives into the complexities of economic perception amidst fluctuating markets. She discusses how media shapes public sentiment on financial matters and emphasizes the emotional aspect of economics. The conversation takes a quirky turn as it touches on a bizarre story involving a bear in Central Park, blending humor and absurdity with the serious topic of navigating economic challenges.

Tim Walz, a serious contender for Vice President, reflects on the Iraq war surge and its implications for leadership. He shares personal anecdotes and historical insights that illustrate the complexities of political decision-making. Additionally, Corey Brettschneider delves into John Adams' nuanced relationship with democracy, highlighting the historical challenges leaders face in balancing power and moral responsibility. Together, they explore how past decisions shape current governance and public perception.

Chris Gavaler and Nat Goldberg, professors at Washington and Lee University and co-authors of a book on sequels and remakes, dive into the implications of Josh Shapiro's Jewish identity amid political speculation for vice presidency. They explore how societal perceptions shape candidacies and draw parallels between political narratives and media retconning. The conversation also touches on controversies surrounding gender identity in sports, particularly in Olympic boxing, and the complexities faced by athletes with Differences in Sexual Development.

Kristen Soltis Anderson, a conservative pollster, dives into the recent shifts in polling dynamics after Biden's exit from the race. She discusses Kamala Harris' rising popularity and how it contrasts with perceptions of Biden's impact on Democratic numbers. Anderson highlights Trump’s strategies and his lack of savvy in naming Harris, and explores the implications of Biden's negative polling effects now gone. The conversation even touches on the complexities of recent international prisoner swaps, adding a global perspective to the political landscape.

On a day when former President Donald Trump told black journalists that Kamala Harris denied being black (fact check: untrue), we speak about former President John Adams, who himself ran athwart many Constitutional norms ... or, at least, what we have come to accept as norms. Our guest is Corey Brettschneider, author of Presidents and the People: Five Leaders Who Threatened Democracy and the Citizens Who Fought to Defend It. Plus, what Israel's reported assassination of the political leader of Hamas does to the "Israel is doomed to fail" narrative. Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com To advertise on the show, visit: https://advertisecast.com/TheGist Subscribe to The Gist Subscribe: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/ Follow Mikes Substack at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kamala Harris, the groundbreaking U.S. Vice President, and Corey Brettschneider, a noted political scholar and author, delve into a wild mix of political narratives. Kamala addresses the bizarre 'ding dong' remarks thrown at her while unpacking the intricacies of how female politicians are scrutinized. Corey contrasts historical constitutional overreaches with contemporary issues, revealing the vital role of dissent in shaping democracy. The discussion critiques public perceptions of the Vice President and examines the playful politics of name-calling.

Last week, after many months spent recovering from a shoulder injury, Clayton Kershaw, maybe the greatest pitcher of his generation, returned to the mound for the LA Dodgers. He is a singular talent in the long history of baseball, and we are joined by Andy McCullough, author of The Last of His Kind: Clayton Kershaw and the Burden of Greatness, to discuss how he earned that distinction. Also, Biden proposes major changes to how the Supreme Court works. And an ode to table tennis. Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com To advertise on the show, visit: https://advertisecast.com/TheGist Subscribe to The Gist Subscribe: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/ Follow Mikes Substack at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, Kamala Harris, a former prosecutor and current presidential candidate, discusses her legal background and its implications in the political arena. The podcast delves into the unexpected happiness of bronze medalists compared to their silver counterparts, revealing fascinating psychological insights. Additionally, it explores the anticipated success of the US women's basketball team and how political strategies are adapting to attract undecided voters. The blend of sports and politics brings humor and depth to this thought-provoking discussion.

Ibrahim Nash’at, an Egyptian filmmaker who embedded with Taliban soldiers, shares his riveting experiences from Afghanistan. He discusses the unique insights captured in his documentary, 'Hollywoodgate,' revealing the Taliban's transition from fighters to leaders. Topics include the challenges of journalism in hostile territories, the dark humor in observational filmmaking, and the absurdity of political meme culture. Nash’at critiques how Western sophistication contrasts with resilience in other cultures while reflecting on the implications of foreign interference on local lives.

Jonah Goldberg from The Dispatch joins to discuss Biden's decision not to seek re-election and the need for Kamala Harris to appeal to the median voter. They analyze America's position and the dangers of a second term under Trump. Also, they explore decency in politics and the impact of setting unrealistic expectations.