John Fugelsang

Shows

Episodes

  1. 3 Federal Judges and 6 Musical Artists Cancel Trump's Plans

    13h ago

    3 Federal Judges and 6 Musical Artists Cancel Trump's Plans

    This time John discusses federal judge Christopher Cooper who ordered Trump’s name to be removed from the Kennedy Center. And then another federal judge has temporarily stopped the creation of a $1.8bn government fund to compensate individuals who claimed to be targets of political investigation by previous presidential administrations. Judge Leonie Brinkema barred the justice department from taking any steps to stand up or operate the fund - including processing or dispersing claims - until a preliminary hearing on June 12th. And then another federal judge - Kathleen Williams - ordered the IRS case into Trump re-opened and called his 1776 Terror Slush Fund into question. John then welcomes back journalist and political analyst for CNN, Brian Karem, to talk about the ceasing of the Iran ceasefire and his new podcast "Just Ask the Question". And then finally, TV's Frank Conniff from MST3K returns to joke with John and listeners about Trump's pathetic almost cancelled Freedom 250 concert and birthday UFC cage fight. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 28m
  2. The Great Texas Showdown: Faith, Fraud, and Fascists

    4d ago

    The Great Texas Showdown: Faith, Fraud, and Fascists

    John's monologue focuses on the recent Texas Senate race and the surprising nomination of Ken Paxton, a man embroiled in scandal yet embraced by Texas Republicans. John explores the absurdity of a political system that rewards corruption while contrasting Paxton's candidacy with that of his opponent, James Talarico, a compassionate and principled candidate who embodies the values the GOP claims to uphold. Next, he speaks with podcast star and political commentator Bob Cesca. They chat about issues of healthcare, capitalism, and the moral responsibilities of caring leaders in a democracy. And then finally, John welcomes back The God Squad: theologians Desimber Rose and Dylan Nabor Cruz, who discuss the implications of Paxton's nomination for both Texas and the national political scene. They tackle the intersection of faith and politics, dissecting how the Republican Party has co-opted religious rhetoric to justify their actions while losing sight of the core values of empathy and service. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 28m
  3. Power Plays, Pointless Ploys, and Political Prosecutions

    3d ago

    Power Plays, Pointless Ploys, and Political Prosecutions

    John talks about the Department of Justice opening a criminal investigation into E. Jean Carroll, claiming she perjured herself in her two civil trial victories against Donald Trump, the adjudicated rapist. He also discusses the stupidity of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin proposing withdrawing Customs and Border Protection officers from sanctuary city airports, and greatly impacting air travel to punish woke cities. Then, John interviews Jason G. Green who is the author of "Too Precious to Lose", a memoir which blends family history, civic life, and historical research to explore how communities endure. And, he jokes with standup comedian, writer, and podcast host Ophira Eisenberg. She's been headlining theaters and comedy venues across the world, has toured regularly with the Moth Mainstage, and she hosts the weekly parenting-comedy podcast Parenting is a Joke. She also hosted NPR’s trivia comedy show Ask Me Another for 9 years. Her breakout memoir Screw Everyone: Sleeping My Way to Monogamy has been optioned for a television series. They talk about her new standup special “I USED TO BE NICER”. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 33m
  4. We're Still Here with Simon and Julie

    2d ago

    We're Still Here with Simon and Julie

    This week, John welcomes back Oglala Lakota and Chicano journalist Simon Moya Smith, along with mental health professional Julie Francella, discuss the ongoing impacts of the Indian Removal Act, signed by Andrew Jackson 193 years ago. They delve into the historical context and modern consequences of Indigenous displacement, the trauma faced by Native communities, and the importance of food sovereignty. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    39 min
  5. The Grift is the Gift that the GOP Keeps Giving

    5d ago

    The Grift is the Gift that the GOP Keeps Giving

    John discusses the Texas Senate race and the ever increasing disapproval ratings for Trump. He also talks about the implications of new non-disclosure agreements for government employees, the recent gerrymandering battles in Texas, and he touches on the unexpected good news regarding voting rights and the recent judicial decisions that challenge the status quo. Then, he discusses the corrupt slush fund proposed by Trump for those involved in the January 6th insurrection, John lays bare the implications of using taxpayer money to reward those who participated in an attack on our democracy. Joining him are comedians John Poveromo and Ron Placone, See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 39m
  6. The Battle for Justice: Democrats, ICE, and the Fight for Civil Liberties

    6d ago

    The Battle for Justice: Democrats, ICE, and the Fight for Civil Liberties

    Democratic Strategist Max Burns guest hosts for John. He focuses on key issues that are shaping our nation today. Max kicks things off with a lighthearted nod to the Indianapolis 500, but quickly dives into the serious issues at hand, including the alarming state of Trump's waning support among Republicans and the fallout from Stephen Colbert's final show. With guests like Brad Lander, a former New York City comptroller and candidate for Congress, and Insha Rahman, the president of the Vera Institute of Justice, this episode goes deep into the startling implications of recent legislation and the challenges facing Democrats. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 29m
  7. E250 - The Christian Right Weaponizing Scripture w/ John Fugelsang

    6d ago

    E250 - The Christian Right Weaponizing Scripture w/ John Fugelsang

    Subscribe now to get an ad-free experience and more episodes. Don’t forget about our weekly livestreams on our YouTube channel, every Wednesday at 8pm ET.  Danny and Derek welcome to the show John Fugelsang, host of Tell Me Everything and author of Separation of Church and Hate, to talk about the rise and influence of right-wing Christianity in the United States. They discuss Christian nationalism; the political weaponization of scripture; Jesus’s teachings vs authoritarian Christianity; the apostle Paul’s role in shaping the faith; issues like abortion, immigration, and sexuality; white supremacy; Donald Trump; and arguing with conservative Christians. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    51 min
  8. Trump Facing Major Backlash After Loyalist Caught During Insane Hot Mic Moment

    May 12

    Trump Facing Major Backlash After Loyalist Caught During Insane Hot Mic Moment

    We are joined by friend of the show John Fugelsang to talk about MAGA's war on Christianity. Pre-order Jennifer’s new book Not Today, Fascists today: https://linktr.ee/ivehaditpodcast Follow Us: I've Had It Podcast: @Ivehaditpodcast Jennifer Welch: @mizzwelch Angie "Pumps" Sullivan: @pumpspumpspumps See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    27 min
  9. Memorial Weekend Special: The Oath and the Office (with Jodi Kantor)

    May 25

    Memorial Weekend Special: The Oath and the Office (with Jodi Kantor)

    What is the Supreme Court doing when it acts without full briefing, oral argument, or a real explanation? This week on The Oath and The Office, Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times reporter Jodi Kantor joins the podcast to explain the Court’s shadow docket: the emergency orders process that has become one of the most powerful and least understood parts of American government. Kantor discusses the Supreme Court memos she obtained with Adam Liptak, what they reveal about Chief Justice John Roberts, and how they relate to the Court’s supposed image as a neutral “umpire". Corey and John also discuss Trump’s proposed “anti-weaponization” compensation fund, the politics of abortion and the abortion pill at the Supreme Court, and the Court’s emergency order allowing Alabama to move forward with redrawn congressional maps. In this episode: What the shadow docket is and why it mattersJodi Kantor on Supreme Court memosThe two sides of John RobertsWhy the “umpire” model of judging has collapsedAbortion, Alabama, and emergency Supreme Court powerTrump’s “anti-weaponization” fund and the politics of grievanceThe immunity case and presidential powerLink to Jodi Kantor's book, How to Start: https://jodikantor.com/how-to-start Link to Jodi Kantor and Adam Liptak's reporting on the secret memos of the Supreme Court: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/18/us/politics/supreme-court-shadow-docket.html See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 5m
  10. Memorial Weekend Special: The Oath and the Office (with ACLU’s Cecillia Wang)

    May 23

    Memorial Weekend Special: The Oath and the Office (with ACLU’s Cecillia Wang)

    Corey Brettschneider and John Fugelsang begin with the new redistricting wars, as southern states move to dilute Black Americans’ voting power after a green light from the Supreme Court. They look at Tennessee, Alabama, and the Virginia Supreme Court’s decision striking down a voting plan approved by voters. Then, they turn to citizenship itself: DOJ support for stripping citizenship from naturalized citizens and Trump’s attacks on his own Supreme Court justices. Corey then speaks with Cecilia Wang, National Legal Director of the ACLU, who argued before the Supreme Court against Trump’s executive order attacking birthright citizenship, with Trump himself watching from the courtroom. Wang explains why the text and history of the Fourteenth Amendment are on her side, how Reconstruction transformed the Constitution, and why the fight over citizenship is part of the larger battle for voting rights, civil liberties, and democracy itself. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 7m
  11. Best Of: John Fugelsang on Jesus and Politics

    Apr 5

    Best Of: John Fugelsang on Jesus and Politics

    Donald Trump and the Republican Party have the backing of Evangelicals and fundamentalist Christians. But if you read the Bible or listen to the teachings of Jesus Christ, it would be clear that their policies are anything but Christ-like. In this Best Of episode, we revisit our October 2025 conversation with comedian, radio host, and NYT bestselling author John Fugelsang to discuss his book, “Separation of Church and Hate.” Fugelsang shares his unique perspective as a Christian who was raised by a former nun and a Franciscan Brother. He shows the disconnect between what far-right Christians claim Jesus taught versus what he actually said in the Bible. Jesus promoted peace, love, compassion, and mercy... None of which are evident in today's Republican Party. We also break down many social issues that right-wing Christians use their faith to justify. Jesus advocated against the death penalty, provided for the poor, and never once said that homosexuality is a sin. Not to mention abortion, which was weaponized in the 1980s to consolidate power under Ronald Reagan. We hope this interview can help you engage with right-wing Christians in a civil way by pointing to actual scripture, which might help them see the contradictions and lies that their party embraces.   READ John's bestselling book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Separation-of-Church-and-Hate/John-Fugelsang/9781668066898 LISTEN to The John Fugelsang Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-john-fugelsang-podcast/id1464094232 SUPPORT THE SHOW BY VISITING OUR SPONSORS: Visit American Giant to get their Classic Full Zip Hoodie and other cold weather staples. Get 20% off of your first order by entering the code FRANKEN at checkout! https://www.american-giant.com

    39 min
  12. The Blame Shift, the Democrats Stiffed, the Presidents Grift, and the Voters Miffed

    May 22

    The Blame Shift, the Democrats Stiffed, the Presidents Grift, and the Voters Miffed

    In this episode, Stephanie and her crew chat about the political chaos surrounding Trump's controversial slush fund aimed at compensating January 6th rioters. Joined by guests Glenn Kirschner and John Fugelsang, they dissect the absurdity of using taxpayer dollars to reward those who assaulted police officers during the Capitol riot. The conversation takes a sharp turn as they explore the implications of Trump's actions on the Republican Party, with many members expressing concern over the backlash leading up to the midterms. Grab your favorite drink and join the fun! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    47 min
  13. The Battle for Free Speech and Fair Representation

    May 22

    The Battle for Free Speech and Fair Representation

    In this episode, guest host Michael Shure dives into a variety of pressing topics, starting with a groundbreaking victory for the little guy as he speaks with Cary Davis, who discusses the case of Larry Bouchardt, a retired law enforcement officer wrongfully imprisoned for expressing political views on social media. Michael then welcomes Dr. Elizabeth Southerland to talk about the alarming missteps at the White House regarding Forever Chemicals and their implications for public health. Next, Representative Steve Cohen from Tennessee joins the conversation to share his insights on the recent redistricting efforts that threaten representation for Memphis and the broader implications for voting rights. Finally, journalist Ben Jacobs provides an analysis of the current political landscape, including a look at Nancy Mace's controversial statements and the impact of Trump's endorsements on the Republican Party. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 36m
  14. If Slush Fund Money is Reparations for Government Weaponization - Shouldn't Leticia, Comey, and Ruby Freeman Get a Cut?

    May 21

    If Slush Fund Money is Reparations for Government Weaponization - Shouldn't Leticia, Comey, and Ruby Freeman Get a Cut?

    Joe Sudbay is guest hosting for John. He talks about the pressing issues surrounding the recent revelations of Trump's proposed $1.8 billion slush fund aimed at compensating the January 6th insurrectionists. Joe explores the implications of this unprecedented move, questioning the integrity of a democracy that would consider funding those who attacked the Capitol. Then, Joe is joined by Jacqueline Coren, the executive director of March for Our Lives, who shares her powerful story as a survivor of the Parkland shooting and discusses their new campaign, Ripple Effect, aimed at raising awareness about the long-term consequences of gun violence. Following that, community activist Danny Cook joins the conversation to talk about her initiative, Project for the People, which empowers citizens to engage in grassroots organizing around critical issues affecting their communities, including healthcare and social services. Finally, Joe welcomes back journalist Jonathan Larson to dissect the chaotic landscape of American politics, including the media's role in shaping narratives and the ongoing challenges posed by the current administration. Together, they examine the urgent need for accountability and the importance of civic engagement in these tumultuous times. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 39m
  15. Trump's Corruption Carnival: A $1.8 Billion Insult to Democracy

    May 20

    Trump's Corruption Carnival: A $1.8 Billion Insult to Democracy

    Joe Sudbay guest hosts for John. He talks about the news surrounding the $1.776 billion settlement Trump wants to give to those involved in the January 6th insurrection. This settlement raises significant questions about the integrity of our democracy and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their interests. He explores the motivations behind this decision and the potential ramifications for future elections. Additionally, he touches on the broader context of political corruption, particularly within the Republican Party. With figures like Ken Paxton receiving endorsements from Trump, the GOP's loyalty to Trump raises concerns about the party's direction and its impact on American politics. Then, Joe speaks with Susan Rinkunas who's an independent journalist and co-founder of Autonomy News, a worker-owned publication covering abortion, reproductive health, and politics. Next, he interviews award-winning historian and author Kathleen J. Frydl about ICE violating civil rights, Trump's impact in China, and the big beautiful ballroom. And then winding it up, Joe welcomes back Keith Price and they chat about pop culture and politics. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 48m
  16. The Blame Shift, the Democrats Stiffed, the Presidents Grift, and the Voters Miffed

    May 18

    The Blame Shift, the Democrats Stiffed, the Presidents Grift, and the Voters Miffed

    John talks about Colorado Gov. Jared Polis commuting the sentence of 2020 Election Denier Tina Peters, making her eligible to be freed next month. He also discusses the Trump Administration considering settling a $10 Billion lawsuit brought by Trump himself, creating instead a $1.7Billion slush fund for himself and other MAGA supplicants who feel triggered and attacked by laws and morals – (like J6 rioters for example). Plus, he talks about Trump claiming the Southern Poverty Law Center was the source funding the deadly 2017 Unite the Right gathering of neo-Nazis and other white supremacists in Virginia. Then, John interviews the president of the Florida Education Association - Andrew Spar. During his 15 years leading the Volusia union, Andrew negotiated 14 contracts, handled numerous grievances and arbitrations, and spent many long hours advocating for members and working families. At FEA, he spent eight years on the Executive Cabinet. Next, Public Relations Society of America award-winning Democratic Strategist and political columnist Max Burns returns to discuss his new piece in The Hill called "How Republicans are going to blow it and put Democrats back in charge". And then finally, John chats with the Vice President of Strategic Communications for Americans United for Separation of Church and State. Andrew L. Seidel. Andrew is a recognized expert on Christian Nationalism, which he’s spent the last decade fighting in and out of court. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 15m
  17. A Slimy Slush Fund for the Swamp

    May 19

    A Slimy Slush Fund for the Swamp

    In this episode of Tell Me Everything, guest host Michael Shure dives opens with a somber discussion about a tragic mass shooting at an Islamic center near San Diego, which left three dead and has raised serious concerns about hate crimes in America. Michael is joined by Amar Campa Najjar, a congressional candidate who shares his personal connection to the community and the impact of such violence on local residents. The conversation then shifts to the political landscape, as Michael explores the implications of a recent settlement involving the Trump administration and the IRS, which has raised eyebrows and sparked outrage among many. David Cay Johnston provides expert analysis on the potential consequences of this slush fund for Trump allies. Next, Patrick McEnroe joins the discussion to shed light on the state of college tennis and the challenges it faces, emphasizing the need for a balance between international talent and opportunities for American athletes. And finally, the focus turns to the California gubernatorial race, with Joe Garofoli from the San Francisco Chronicle discussing the unexpected dynamics at play, including the rise of billionaire Tom Steyer and the challenges faced by other candidates like Katie Porter and Antonio Villaraigosa. The complex interplay of endorsements and voter sentiment is examined, shedding light on the unique political climate of California. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 34m
  18. Golden Phone, Golden Ballroom, Golden Calf, Golden Rule

    May 14

    Golden Phone, Golden Ballroom, Golden Calf, Golden Rule

    This time John's monologue is 2 fold. First he talks about the Trump Mobile "T1" gold smartphone which is still unreleased and has faced non-stop delays, missing its initial August 2025 launch date. Trump is still promising to ship units soon and the website continues to accept $100 deposits on the $499 device. Second, he discusses Miami residents filing a federal lawsuit over land gifted to Trump by the state of Florida for use as his Presidential Library and skyscraper hotel; and the very wrinkly 22 ft golden statue of Trump erected at his National Doral golf course in Miami which local pastors immediately claimed is NOT idolatry. Then, John jokes with actor and podcast star Bob Cesca. They chat about Trump's pregnancy push, his reflecting pool renovation, and the wonders of NY Mayor Zoran Mamdani. Next, Desimber Rose and Dillon Naber Cruz (AKA The God Squad) are back to talk about Trump's gold statue and Trump's big prayer festival this Sunday; according to organizers, it's intended to honor America's Christian roots and rededicate the nation for its 250th anniversary. Then winding it up, legal analyst Dr. Tracy Pearson is back to chat about Kash Patel's goofy testimony lying his pants off before the Senate appropriations subcommittee and Trump's visit to China. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 43m
  19. The Trump Administration: Surpassing All Others in Sex Scandals

    May 15

    The Trump Administration: Surpassing All Others in Sex Scandals

    John discusses US Border Patrol chief Mike Banks suddenly resigning out of the blue, telling staff “it was just time” without making mention of an unfolding sex-tourism scandal drug up from his past exploits. He also talks about New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has made headlines for successfully eliminating a $12 billion deficit without cutting essential services or raising taxes on working-class residents. Next, John interviews the founder and CEO of the National Democratic Training Committee - Kelly Dietrich. They discuss how the NDTC is a cohesive training program with hundreds of courses, videos, and articles about running effective campaigns. Kelly’s expertise in fundraising and staff training have shaped NDTC into an industry leader in Democratic politics. And finally, John welcomes back The God Pod which is a satirical comedy podcast hosted by animated versions of God and Jesus. The Divine Duo review the news of the week and try to make sense of the world they created. TikTok: thegodpodcast YouTube: TheGodPod Instagram: goodgodabove See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 28m
  20. We're Still Here with Simon and Julie

    May 16

    We're Still Here with Simon and Julie

    In this episode, Simon Moya Smith and Julie Francella discuss the powerful speech delivered by Harrison Ford at Arizona State University, where he called for cultural change, social justice, and respect for Indigenous peoples. Simon, an Oglala Lakota Chicano journalist, and Julie, an Ojibwe writer and therapist, share their insights on the significance of Ford's message, its impact on Indigenous communities, and the ongoing struggle for recognition and rights. The conversation delved into how historical policies have affected access to healthy foods, resulting in high rates of diabetes and other health issues. They stressed the need for Indigenous food systems to be recognized and revitalized, as they are essential for cultural identity and community health. Simon and Julie encourage listeners to engage with Indigenous issues and support initiatives that promote cultural understanding and respect. They reminded us that the fight for justice is not just an Indigenous issue, but a human issue that affects us all. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    43 min
John Fugelsang on Apple