Blocked and Reported

This week on Blocked and Reported, a quiz show icon disappears. Plus, Germany, free speech, and an update on the Zizians.Pre-order Katie’s book To hear more, visit www.blockedandreported.org

Ethan Strauss, an independent journalist and former The Athletic writer, joins the conversation to discuss the peculiar tale of Richard Lapchick, an anti-racist sports icon with a bizarre tattoo. They delve into the changing landscape of sports journalism, particularly the shift toward independent platforms post-pandemic. Strauss also analyzes the evolving role of athletes in social justice advocacy and critiques superficial media responses to activism, blending serious insights with humor throughout their engaging dialogue.

Dive into the wild world of online investing with a focus on the SAVAges, a group of misled investors backing a dubious Alzheimer's drug. The conversation shifts to the film 'Amelia Perez,' sparking debates about its controversial themes, mixed reviews, and the significance of its trans lead. Along the way, the hosts tackle the absurdities of digital life, including a humorous take on AI's role in creativity. Get ready for a blend of laughter, skepticism, and thought-provoking discussions!

This week, guest Jack Despain Zhou, a former producer turned law student and educational advocate, dives into some controversial topics. He shares insights on the troubling dynamics of the Zizians cult, led by the enigmatic trans figure Ziz, and explores the implications of prioritizing diversity over merit in hiring practices at the FAA. The discussion extends to the failures of the education system and the need for accountability. Zhou also critiques the challenges within the rationalist community, revealing how extreme ideologies can take root even in progressive spaces.

This week, the hosts dive into the uproar surrounding a potentially racist AI and its fallout in the book world. They tackle the absurdities of government funding for news outlets, paired with a comedic exploration of New York nightlife. A scandal involving ethical breaches in journalism raises serious questions, illuminating the fine line reporters walk while covering polarizing figures. Throughout, humor and sharp insights highlight the complexities of navigating today's chaotic media landscape.

Dive into the wild world of meme coins, where absurdity reigns with a smile! From parodying the latest crypto crazes to hilarious tales of dodgy investments, the hosts reflect on the volatile landscape of altcoins. They tackle the intersection of politics and crypto, including Trump’s surprisingly significant influence. Moreover, the conversation touches on ethical dilemmas regarding social media's role in society and pokes fun at the oddities of viral phenomena. Get ready for a mix of wit and wanderlust through the absurdities of our digital age!

This week, the hosts dive into Trump’s executive orders impacting trans rights and military policies. A Seattle scandal involving ethical violations among reporters is discussed with humor and insights. They also explore the emotional toll of returning to office work amid political chaos. The complexities of ideological divides within social justice movements are examined, alongside the intricacies of Seattle's political landscape and the humorous misunderstandings surrounding race and endorsements.

This week on Blocked and Reported, Jesse and Katie discuss Elon Musk’s arms. Plus, for Primos, we answer the question: What the hell do DEI offices do? And we dissect Trump’s Executive Orders on free speech, equity, and gender. Restoring Freedom Of Speech And Ending Federal Censorship – The White HouseEnding Radical And Wasteful Government DEI Programs And Preferencing – The White HouseDear Colleague Letter on Transgender Students (PDF) [RESCINDED]Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism And Restoring Biological Truth To The Federal Government – The White House To hear more, visit www.blockedandreported.org

In this engaging discussion, political commentator Ben Domenech, known for his sharp insights on The Transom, dives into the potential landscape of a future Trump administration. He and the host dissect the online right's evolution, touching on the bizarre origins of Andrew Breitbart's rise, sparked by an infamous incident. They also analyze the significance of the California wildfires, the misinformation surrounding climate change, and the complexities of contemporary conservative politics. A must-listen for anyone curious about today's political dynamics!

This week features a dramatic breakup between online figures Milo Yiannopoulos and Laura Loomer, drawing attention to the personal lives tangled in social media dramas. The podcast dives deep into Meta’s new hate speech policies, raising questions about free expression versus harmful rhetoric. There's a lively debate on TikTok's future in the U.S. amid privacy concerns, as well as a discussion on how collective intelligence can reveal truths in an age of misinformation. Sensitive topics are tackled with humor, navigating the stormy waters of modern communication.