The Comedy Cellar: Live from the Table

In the second of our 2 sessions with Scott, we get into some of the sources cited in his powerful book "Provoked," and whether they are biased by an extreme worldview. We also argue about Candace Owens and whether her views ought to make her beyond the pale as an accepted member of a political clique (Noam says yes, Scott says no). Also, was Maidan a coup, an organic movement, or a bit of both?Part 1 will be uploaded shortly. Provoked: How Washington Started the New Cold War with Russia and the Catastrophe in UkraineAvailable on Amazon: https://a.co/d/hFaTYPmSome links: https://peakprosperity.com/dave-collum-year-in-review-2021-rise-of-global-authoritarianism/https://www.jasonhartman.com/2182-trump-assassination-attempt-inside-job-or-incompetence-conspiracy-or-coincidence/https://news.grabien.com/wire-dave-collum-goes-deep-conspiracy-theories-911-epstein-pizzaghttps://english.almayadeen.net/articles/analysis/third-911-hijacker-may-have-been-cia-recruithttps://quoththeraven.podbean.com/e/quoth-the-raven-131-dave-collum-the-conspiracy-theory-episode/

In this insightful discussion, Aaron Maté, a journalist with the Grayzone News and co-host of the Useful Idiots Podcast, dives deep into the complexities of international conflicts. He explores the contrasting narratives surrounding Ukraine and Israel-Palestine, dissecting historical grievances and the moral implications of territorial disputes. The conversation tackles the U.S. role in Ukraine’s political landscape and critiques the influence of foreign policy on ongoing wars, all while emphasizing the importance of truth and reliable evidence in conflict-related narratives.

The hosts explore the challenges facing comedians today, especially the tension between free speech and customer complaints. They discuss the responsibilities comedians have to balance humor with sensitivity, showcased through a woman's reaction to an offensive joke during her IVF journey. Delving into the realm of conspiracy theories, they critically assess their societal dangers and ties to anti-Semitism, all while questioning the impact of jokes on public discourse. Comedy, it seems, is a tightrope walk of laughter and responsibility.

Ann Coulter, a conservative author known for her fierce political commentary, shares her provocative views on immigration and Donald Trump's legacy. She humorously navigates the complexities of immigration policy, weighing the value of immigrants against national loyalty. The discussion takes a turn to examine the public's response to COVID-19, contrasting vaccination strategies while critiquing political narratives. Coulter also reflects on contemporary political figures, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and delves into the contentious landscape of transgender rights.

Yardena Schwartz, an award-winning journalist and Emmy-nominated producer, shares insights from her book "Ghosts of a Holy War," which delves into the 1929 Hebron Massacre and its modern implications. The discussion highlights the alarming rise of anti-Semitism today, echoing historical events and the role of misinformation in inciting violence. Schwartz also explores complex narratives surrounding Jewish and Palestinian identities and the challenges of reconciliation within the fraught Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Ann Bauer, a celebrated author with a keen eye for societal nuances, shares her journey from a progressive Democrat to voting for Trump. She discusses the alienation felt during the pandemic and critiques school closures affecting vulnerable children. Bauer also reflects on the complexities of identity and activism, particularly surrounding LGBTQ+ issues. With thoughtful insights on political polarization and the significance of humor in leadership, she captures the emotional upheaval tied to today's divisive political landscape.

Kat Timpf, a New York Times best-selling author and co-host of "Gutfeld!" on Fox News, dives into the divisive nature of binary thinking. She shares insights on navigating political beliefs and the tension between libertarianism and conservatism. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with sensitive topics like abortion, identity, and the impact of societal expectations. With humor and candid anecdotes, Timpf encourages listeners to seek common ground in an increasingly polarized landscape.

Richard Hanania, President of the Center for the Study of Partisanship and Ideology, shares his insights on the recent election results and dissects Trump's ongoing political influence. He highlights the media's role in shaping public perception and biases across the spectrum, urging a reevaluation of truth in journalism. Hanania also reflects on parenting through a political lens, addressing racial discussions with his daughter. Lastly, he tackles the repercussions of viral social media moments and their impact on the political landscape.

Coleman Hughes, a musician, podcaster, and author known for his incisive takes on race and politics, joins the discussion. He delves into the contrasting approaches of Trump and Biden during the pandemic, examining leadership styles and the effects of disaster relief. The conversation also critiques media biases toward political figures and highlights the complexities of voter manipulation in Puerto Rico. With candid perspectives on the electoral landscape, the talk reflects on the uncertainties of choosing candidates in today's political climate.

Batya Ungar-Sargon, an insightful journalist and author of "Bad News," dives deep into the election dynamics between Trump and Harris. She shares intriguing insights on the evolving support for candidates among demographic groups, especially young men of color. The discussion highlights political polarization, critiquing policies surrounding immigration and labor. Ungar-Sargon also emphasizes the role of humor in political discourse and navigates the complexities of voter sentiment as the election looms, shedding light on the importance of decisive outcomes for political stability.