John Fugelsang

Shows

Episodes

  1. Trump's Update on Operation Epic Blurry

    8H AGO

    Trump's Update on Operation Epic Blurry

    This time - John runs down Trump's Oval Office address, where he of course claims “mission: accomplished” for military operations in Iran. Meanwhile, the Pentagon is reportedly briefing the White House on a possible special ops missions into Iran to retrieve nuclear material from various sites. The missions could involve hundred if not thousands of troops over the course of several weeks. Then, podcast star Bob Cesca joins John to talk about the War and other items on Trump's agenda. Next, The God Squad featuring Dillon Naber Cruz and Desimber Rose return to talk about the ass backward Christian Nationalist theology and how they twist what the bible really says to meet what they need it to say. And then lastly, John speaks with legal analyst Dr. Tracy Pearson and they discuss Trump's insane rambling address, the recent Supreme court rulings and the Artemis II mission to the moon. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 30m
  2. The Reunification of Church and State

    1D AGO

    The Reunification of Church and State

    In the latest episode, John opens with a discussion on the serious allegations against comedian Russell Brand, who is facing multiple charges of rape and sexual assault. He then talks about the alarming Supreme Court ruling regarding conversion therapy. He argues against the dangerous implications of allowing such practices to continue under the guise of free speech. He emphasizes the need for states to protect vulnerable children from harmful and discredited therapies, underscoring the broader implications for public health and safety. Then, he delves into the intertwining of religion and politics, particularly through the lens of Christian nationalism. He critiques Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who he argues misuses religious symbols to justify violence and power. His commentary is both humorous and thought-provoking, challenging listeners to reflect on the true essence of Christianity and its divergence from political ideologies. John then interviews Zach Sokoloff who's a Senior Vice President at Hackman Capital Partners, serving as Asset Manager of the firm's Television City and Radford Studio Center projects. He is running to be the next Controller for the City of Los Angeles, the chief accountant and paymaster for the city. Next, he speaks with Rachel Laser who's the President and CEO at Americans United for Separation of Church and State. An experienced lawyer, she is an advocate and strategist who has dedicated her career to making our country more inclusive. They discuss major constitutional infractions such as the Depts. Of Defense and Labor prayer services which are an example of the Trump Admin’s increasing Christian Nationalism. And then finally, Comedy Daddy - Keith Price returns to joke with John and listeners about pop culture and Trump's latest mayhem and chaos. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 40m
  3. Only Racists Would Target Birthright Citizenship

    2D AGO

    Only Racists Would Target Birthright Citizenship

    This time, John talks about the Supreme Court setting up to hear discussions about Trump's executive order to end birthright citizenship. Opening arguments from the White House included key talking points from the white supremacist fringe of the far right. John also mentions Pope Leo criticizing Secretary of Offense Pete Hegseth's cold-hearted "war prayer". Next, comedian Rhonda Hansome returns to talk sense amid this political chaos and mayhem. And finally, Professor Corey Brettschneider joins John and the team to talk about the legal ins and outs of the latest Supreme Court decisions and the upcoming birthright citizenship case. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 17m
  4. Trump's Little Johnson Shuts Down the Senate's Attempt to Shut Down the Partial Shut Down

    3D AGO

    Trump's Little Johnson Shuts Down the Senate's Attempt to Shut Down the Partial Shut Down

    John discusses the Senate staying up late to pass a funding bill for DHS that leaves ICE and border patrol OUT. But of course, it was rejected immediately by the GOP controlled House. He also discusses Pete Kegsbreath blocking the promotion of 2 Black and 2 female Army officers to be one-star generals. Next, he speaks with Democratic strategist Max Burns about his new piece in The Hill called "The Main Stream Media is Crumbling and It's About Time". And then finally, John jokes with TV's Frank Conniff. He's a comedy writer and performer who began his TV career writing for the Peabody Award winning Comedy Central series Mystery Science Theater 3000, where he also played TV’s Frank. They talk with the Evil Army of the Night about current news and pop culture. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 15m
  5. No Kings, No Peace: Protests, Politics, and the Pope

    6D AGO

    No Kings, No Peace: Protests, Politics, and the Pope

    John dives into the latest political turmoil, discussing the upcoming "No Kings" protests planned across the U.S. as citizens rally against the current administration. He welcomes Jamie Jackson, a political commentator and former congressional aide, who sheds light on the breakdown of bipartisan cooperation in Congress and the urgent need for transparency regarding military actions. Plus, your calls! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 11m
  6. Trump's War of Lies: Polls, Panic, and Political Flips

    MAR 26

    Trump's War of Lies: Polls, Panic, and Political Flips

    John talks about Trump's lies and distractions coming into the midterms. He also welcomes the insightful Bob Sesca, host of The Bob Sesca Show, who shares his thoughts on the ongoing political turmoil and the implications of insider trading within the Trump administration. Plus, a discussion of the religious right with Dillon Naber Cruz. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 22m
  7. Trump, War, and Sharpies

    6D AGO

    Trump, War, and Sharpies

    If you’ve looked at the headlines lately and felt the sudden urge to scream into a pillow, take a breath—Stephanie Miller is here to do it for you (but with much better jokes). She dives headfirst into the White House’s latest "strategic" doodles, the high-stakes reality of global conflict, and an economy that feels like it’s being managed with a permanent marker and a prayer. She peels back the layers of the absurd to find the truth buried under the latest press briefing, tackling everything from military brinkmanship to the fallout at the grocery store. With guests John Fugelsang & Frangela! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    43 min
  8. We're Still Here with Simon and Julie

    5D AGO

    We're Still Here with Simon and Julie

    In this episode of We're Still Here, John Fugelsang welcomes Indigenous advocates Simon Moya Smith and Julie Franciello to a dive deep into the troubling issue of identity appropriation, spotlighting the controversial case of former Border Patrol chief Greg Pavino, who falsely claimed Native American identity in a legal context. The conversation explores the broader implications of such appropriations, particularly in professional and legal settings, and the harm they cause to genuine Indigenous representation. The hosts discuss the absurdity of cultural capital and how individuals often exploit Indigenous identity for personal gain, while also addressing the historical context of such actions. They also highlight a recent inspiring victory for Indigenous rights at Brigham Young University, where student Jaron First Charger fought for his right to keep his cultural braids, emphasizing the significance of hair in Indigenous spiritual and cultural practices. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the complexities of identity, representation, and the ongoing struggle for recognition and respect in today's society. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    24 min
  9. Florida Democrats Flip Mar-A-Lago's District and Trump's War of Lies

    MAR 25

    Florida Democrats Flip Mar-A-Lago's District and Trump's War of Lies

    John discusses Florida Democrats' stunning victory in a special election in Mar-a-Lago's district and Trump's declaration of victory in his dealings with Iran, juxtaposed with the announcement of an impending deployment of American paratroopers to the Middle East. John also pays tribute to the late Robert Mueller, reflecting on his legacy and the importance of upholding the rule of law in the face of corruption. Then, John welcomes Kelly Dietrich, founder of the National Democratic Training Committee, who discusses the urgency of mobilizing Democrats ahead of the upcoming elections. Bob Henley joins John to discuss the ongoing challenges in media and labor, the impact of immigration on local economies, and the importance of grassroots journalism in countering corporate narratives. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 7m
  10. Insider Trading Within the Trump Administration

    MAR 24

    Insider Trading Within the Trump Administration

    John's monologue begins with how President Trump announced a halt to upcoming air raids on Iranian targets, how Iran spent most of the day today denying that such talks have taken place, and how an individual made a billion dollar plus series of trades on market futures and oil prices – a clear as day signal of insider trading within the administration. Next Corey Brettschneider, a professor with a PhD in Politics from Princeton and a Law degree from Stanford joins John. For years, Corey's analysis of the Trump Administration for Politico, the New York Times, CNN, MSNBC and TIME have been indispensable. John then interviews Anu Joshi the National Campaign Director for Immigration in the National Political Advocacy Department. Anu previously served as the Vice President of Policy at the New York Immigration Coalition, and worked on successful campaigns to ensure access to drivers licenses for undocumented immigrants in New York and pass municipal voting rights for noncitizens in New York City. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 34m
  11. Military Operations In Iran Winding down? - Not According to the Pentagon

    MAR 23

    Military Operations In Iran Winding down? - Not According to the Pentagon

    John's monologue starts with how President Trump told reporters that military operations in Iran are winding down, while leaks from the Pentagon continue to tease a large military buildup of ground forces. He also talks about plans that include sending three more warships and thousands more troops to take the strategic fuel depot on Kharg Island. Plus, he touches on how scientists conducting clinical trials on psilocybin mushrooms for depression treatment now believe psychedelics may have no greater effect than existing antidepressants and worry about the percentage of positive reactions that can be attributed to placebo effect. John then interviews Frank Conniff a comedy writer and performer who began his TV career writing for the Peabody Award winning Comedy Central series Mystery Science Theater 3000, where he also played TV’s Frank. He then went on to be a writer, producer and actor on the ABC TV series Sabrina the Teenage Witch and he was a writer and producer on The Drew Carey Show on ABC. He’s a prolific author and comedian and his books and Mads Are Back shows are available at Dumb-Industries.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 27m
  12. The Greatest Fraud in Immigration History - Cruelty is the Point and Grift is the Business Model

    MAR 20

    The Greatest Fraud in Immigration History - Cruelty is the Point and Grift is the Business Model

    John's monologue is about Trump taking fees from immigrants and US sponsors for services that it has no plans to provide. The government took their money, and now it won’t even adjudicate their applications—in many cases, it refuses even to issue denials. The State Department is actually telling consular officers not to notify future applicants that the government has banned them. He also talks about Trump telling reporters he “isn’t sending troops anywhere” in Iran, adding that even if he was, he wouldn’t tell the press – whom he hates. Even as Trump denies it, national defense insiders in DC report DoD is close to deploying thousands and thousands of troops to the region to take and hold Iranian territory near the Strait of Hormuz. The Pentagon has also asked Congress for $200Billion in supplemental war funds so it can keep escalating conflict with Iran. John then interviews Hans Charles & Menelek Lumumba who are the hosts & co-creators of podcast The A Building, which was launched by Imagine Entertainment and iHeartPodcasts back in February. It is a tale of protest that will hopefully spark the fight in all of us for the next No Kings protests on March 28th. The A Building tells the story of the 1969 student protest at Morehouse College in Atlanta where students (including Samuel L. Jackson) took board of trustee members (including Martin Luther King Sr.) hostage. The event was a pivotal moment in the modern era of student protests, and the podcast explores how the climate of the 60’s and 70’s reverberates today. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 25m
  13. A Brand New "Me Too" Movement - This Time It's Just Teenagers

    MAR 19

    A Brand New "Me Too" Movement - This Time It's Just Teenagers

    John talks about a New York Times investigation which revealed years of sexual abuse and grooming of female associates by the late, celebrated labor rights activist Cesar Chavez. Among those corroborating the report are activist Dolores Huerta, who detailed rape at the hands of Chavez in an open letter. Then, he discusses Markwayne Mullin’s Senate confirmation hearing where colleagues really let him have it, challenging Mullin on his record, his temperament and the actions of the agency he hopes to manage. Also, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard took sharp jabs from lawmakers about the War In Iran as she testified during a House Select Intelligence Committee hearing. John then welcomes back Bob Cesca to talk about the War in the Middle East, the Epstein files, and of course Star Wars and Star Trek. Next, Dillon Naber Cruz and Desimber Rose show up for another installment of The God Squad. They talk sense about what the bible really says and what Christian Nationalists want us to believe. And wrapping it up, John interviews Annabelle Gurwitch. She's an actress, activist, and New York Times bestselling author of six books and a two-time Thurber Prize finalist. Her essays and satire have appeared in The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post amongst other publications and she co-hosted the fan favorite Dinner & a Movie on TBS and was a regular commentator on NPR. After receiving an out-of-the blue diagnosis of Stage 4 lung cancer, an existential dread set in. Precision medicine offered a temporary reprieve—but instead of turning into a cancer warrior, Annabelle declared herself a cancer slacker. Her motto: no runs, no ribbons, and no religion. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 39m
  14. We're Still Here with Simon and Julie

    MAR 21

    We're Still Here with Simon and Julie

    In this episode, John once again welcomes Indigenous advocates Simon Moya Smith and Julie Franciello to discuss the complex legacies of historical figures like Cesar Chavez and the challenges faced by Indigenous communities today. The conversation delves into the painful truths about admired leaders, the intricacies of trauma responses, and the importance of recognizing the contributions of women in movements. Simon and Julie also explore the historical kinship between Irish and Indigenous peoples, highlighting acts of solidarity and the ongoing struggles against colonialism. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    38 min
  15. The Iran War Factions are Taking Shape as the Right Begins to Implode

    MAR 18

    The Iran War Factions are Taking Shape as the Right Begins to Implode

    This time, John discusses Joe Kent who resigned as the head of the National Counterterrorism Center, which is part of Tulsi Gabbard’s office. Kent cited the war with Iran as his reason for leaving. John also talks about the ongoing conflict in Iran, emphasizing the internal divisions within the Republican party and the implications for American foreign policy. He raises important questions about accountability and the potential consequences of military action, encouraging listeners to think critically about the narratives presented in the media. Then, he interviews Elizabeth Vartkessian who's been investigating the life histories of those facing the most severe penalties possible in the U.S. They talk about her new book "The Deserving: What the Lives of the Condemned Reveal About American Justice". Next, John speaks with Tony Box who served as a Judge Advocate General officer while being deployed to Iraq. His career experience includes working as an investigator with the Congressional Commission on Wartime Contracting, for the Department of Defense, as a special agent and member of the SWAT team with the FBI, as an assistant U.S. Attorney, and in private practice. Having operated in both military and federal law enforcement leadership roles for decades, Tony brings a unique perspective on whether we're heading down a familiar and risky path. And finally, John jokes with comedian Keith Price and they talk listeners off the edge and calm their fears about voting, gas prices, and the War in Iran. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 44m
  16. Rules of Engagement - Fools of Enragement

    MAR 16

    Rules of Engagement - Fools of Enragement

    John is broadcasting from Tucson, Arizona as he is at a book convention. His monologue this time is about the Iran War and Pete Hegseth's insane press conference. Then, he interviews Joe Conason who is a journalist, author and liberal political commentator. He is the founder and editor-in-chief of The National Memo, a daily political newsletter and website that features breaking news as well as commentary and analysis from influential progressive thinkers. Since 2006, he has served as editor of Type Investigations, a nonprofit journalism center. Then finally, John welcomes back TV's Frank Conniff to talk with listeners about Trump and the Oscars. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 31m
  17. In Dire Straits Trying to Straitening Out the Strait

    MAR 13

    In Dire Straits Trying to Straitening Out the Strait

    John once again talks about the War in the Middle East. Pentagon officials told Congress the first week of war in Iran has cost the people of the United States more than $11 Billion. Refineries and tankers in and around the Strait of Hormuz continue to come under attack from Iranian drones and missiles, with new supreme leader Khamenei promising the fun will continue until the US feels the economic pain of its actions. Then, he interviews democrat Crystal Rhoades who has been the Douglas County Clerk of the District Court in Nebraska. Rhoades is running for election to the House to represent Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District in the Democratic primary scheduled on May 12th. Rhoades served as a public service commissioner from 2015 to 2023. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    46 min
  18. The Cruelty and Sadism is the Point

    MAR 12

    The Cruelty and Sadism is the Point

    John discusses the complexities of the U.S. military's recent actions in Iran, touching on the tragic consequences of these decisions. Next, podcast star Bob Cesca, joins in the conversation and he takes a deep dive into how these military operations impact marginalized communities, particularly in light of the ongoing political discourse surrounding immigration and national identity. John emphasizes the hypocrisy of the right who claim to uphold American values while simultaneously undermining the very principles of pluralism and inclusivity. He highlights the alarming trend of hate speech and discrimination against Muslims, Jews, and other marginalized groups, urging listeners to recognize the dangers of such rhetoric in our society. Next - It's the God Squad with Dylan Naber Cruz and Pastor Decimber Rose. They bring their unique perspectives on the intersection of faith and politics. They explore how Christian nationalism is being weaponized to justify exclusionary practices and policies, ultimately calling for a return to the core teachings of compassion and love that are central to many faith traditions. Then winding it up, legal analyst Dr. Tracy Pearson bring her expertise to deepen the listener's understanding of the current political climate and the moral imperatives that should guide our actions as a society. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 50m
  19. An Excursion Diversion for a Distraction Reaction

    MAR 10

    An Excursion Diversion for a Distraction Reaction

    In this episode, John Fugelsang dives into the complexities of current geopolitical tensions, focusing on the recent military actions in Iran and the implications for the United States. Joined by Professor Corey Brettschneider and comedian Rhonda Hanson, the discussion explores the political landscape, the role of billionaires in campaign financing, and the consequences of foreign policy decisions. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 27m
  20. We're Still Here with Simon and Julie

    MAR 14

    We're Still Here with Simon and Julie

    In this episode, John once again speaks with Indigenous advocates Simon Moya Smith and Julie Francella. They discuss the cultural implications of recent events surrounding Jeffrey Epstein and the exploitation of Indigenous artifacts. The conversation dives deep into the significance of petroglyphs and the broader issues of cultural appropriation, colonialism, and the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities. They take calls and engage in an eye-opening discussion that challenges perceptions and sheds light on the importance of respecting Indigenous heritage. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    54 min
John Fugelsang on Apple