Blocked and Reported

Brad Polumbo, a conservative commentator and writer, teams up with Katie Herzog to delve into the chaotic world of right-wing infighting. They discuss the reality TV-style drama surrounding Turning Point USA and the fault lines in GOP ideology post-Trump. The guests analyze the growing divides over Israel in the party and Candace Owens' controversial rhetoric, raising concerns about anti-Semitism. They also touch on how high-profile figures like Ben Shapiro and Tucker Carlson are navigating these turbulent waters, revealing surprising allegiances.

This week, Saint Helen Lewis joins us to discuss Jesse’s shortcomings, the state of publishing, the state of social media, the Riyadh Comedy Festival, the Olivia Nuzzi scandal, and more. Plus, our annual end-of-year extremely online pub quiz. Note: This is our last free episode of the year. Primos have more coming, but for everyone else, see you next year.Helen’s book Katie’s bookJesse’s Austin eventKatie’s Duke eventOpinion | The Shifting Politics of Transgender Rights - The New York TimesI Watched Stand-Up in Saudi Arabia - The AtlanticOlivia Nuzzi’s Tell-Nothing Memoir - The Atlantic This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.blockedandreported.org/subscribe

Explore the fallout from Vladimir Kramnik's intense campaign against alleged chess cheaters, including sensational claims against grandmaster Danya Naroditsky. The discussion delves into the rise of AI-generated content, with the Washington Post's struggles highlighting potential pitfalls in accuracy. As the chess community grapples with accessibility versus cheating, tensions escalate, leading to distressing personal outcomes and ethical investigations aimed at Kramnik's conduct. The episode is a deep dive into controversy, mental health, and the complexities of modern chess.

This week, the hosts dive into Turning Point USA's controversial push to cancel a University of Oklahoma instructor over alleged anti-Christian bias. They also unpack Candace Owens's bizarre investigation into Charlie Kirk's demise, tiptoeing into a world of coded messages about bees. Their discussion spans from the nuances of poetry to the peculiarities of modern conspiracies, showcasing an intriguing mix of academic concerns and cultural commentary. Get ready for an entertaining take on bizarre narratives!

Exploring the politics of poetry, the hosts dive into Curtis Yarvin's controversial views and his rise within elite circles. They discuss the backlash surrounding his poems, critiquing whether his art can be separated from his contentious reputation. Updates on Chuck Johnson's legal troubles add a layer of intrigue, while debates about the 'cathedral' concept and the role of corporate power spark lively discourse. The dialogue sheds light on the dissident literary scene, culminating in a critique of the implications for those who support Yarvin.

This week dives deep into the drama surrounding Olivia Nuzzi and Ryan Lizza, sparked by revelations involving Vanity Fair’s new editor and personal histories. The hosts explore Nuzzi's rise in journalism, her controversial reporting style, and her pattern of dating older men. They engage in a lively debate about age-gap relationships, examining the implications of power dynamics and societal perceptions. Expect a mix of humorous banter, serious commentary, and insights into modern relationships.

This week on Blocked and Reported, Jesse and Katie break down a DoorDasher’s viral sexual assault that turned out to be a little more complicated. Meanwhile, a MAGA aide survives a brutal attack. Austin event: https://forms.gle/Dq5RPDR6yz5XpwVJ8HENDERSON PRESS RELEASE | DocumentCloudUnited States of America V. NATALIE GREENE Lawmaker’s former staffer staged violent political attack, police sa This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.blockedandreported.org/subscribe

Dive into the world of AI companions as hosts explore the growing trend of AI friends and lovers. They discuss personal experiences with chatbots and the phenomenon of anthropomorphizing these digital entities. The controversial Friend.com subway campaign sparks a debate on privacy and societal implications. Insights on the loneliness epidemic reveal AI's market potential, while discussions on the darker side highlight risks associated with emotional attachments to bots, including tragic real-life cases.

Jessica the '80s Baby, a researcher known for her deep dives into online communities, joins to unpack the notorious Tattle Life forum. She delves into Tattle's origins, contrasting it with Mumsnet's history. Discussions cover the gossip site's structure, moderation practices, and the psychological impact on users, including Jessica's own experiences. They also explore high-profile lawsuits against Tattle, the unveiling of its operator, and ethical questions around online anonymity and doxxing. The conversation reveals the stark realities of online gossip culture.

Olivia Nuzzi's career journey takes center stage, from wunderkind journalist to controversial figure after a scandal involving RFK Jr. and her firing. The hosts dissect her early days covering scandals and tabloid antics. They also dive into the ethics of journalism and public reactions to her tumultuous past. Nuzzi's comeback at Vanity Fair and her new book highlight resilience, while shocking revelations about Ryan Lizza add layers to the narrative. It's a deep exploration of consequences and the complex world of media.