Call It Like I See It: Recent Episodes
James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana
Call It Like I See It proves that news and social commentary does not have to be manipulative or sensationalist to be interesting, so join hosts James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana as they take a weekly look at notable news stories, opinion pieces, or products of our culture and break down what they see.
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the AI chatbot that seems to be able to pull people away from conspiracy theories and the viability of using of technology to address problems created by technology (01:11). The guys also take a look at what is happening with Argentina’s economy with the quote shock therapy that the new libertarian president has implemented (25:39). This Chatbot Pulls People Away From Conspiracy Theories (NY Times) Argentina’s poverty rate spikes in first 6 months of President Milei’s shock therapy (AP News)Percentage distribution of wealth in Argentina in 2021, by wealth percentile (Statista)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the sharp decline in encounters at the southern border with people wanting to come to the US and why some who oppose immigration are not thrilled about the development (1:14). The guys also react to the banning of Twitter/X in Brazil (28:14) and consider if dolphins really are evil (55:43). July Immigrant Border Arrests Lower Than Trump’s Last Month In Office (Forbes)GOP senator reveals threat he received working on border bill (CNN)Senate Republicans block bipartisan border deal and foreign aid package following months of negotiations (CNN)Fentanyl scanners that were sitting idle for lack of federal funds can now be installed at the border to catch smugglers (NBC News) X goes offline in Brazil after Elon Musk’s refusal to comply with local laws (The Guardian) Social media loves to villainize dolphins. Here's why it's wrong. (National Geographic) (Apple News Link)Much Like Humans, Dolphin Pods Have Complex Social Structures (Discover Magazine)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to some recent comments by JP Morgan Chase CEO Jaime Dimon about the looming national debt crisis and whether the rich need to pay more taxes (1:14). The guys also weigh in on what many have said is a recent uptick of people in right wing circles trying to mainstream race pseudoscience (33:24). Jamie Dimon wants to hit millionaires with the ‘Buffett Rule’ to tackle national debt - Fortune (Yahoo! Finance)What is the national debt? (Treasury.gov)U.S. Debt by President: Dollar and Percentage (Investopedia)Reaganomics (Wikipedia) The Far Right Is Becoming Obsessed With Race and IQ (The Atlantic) (Apple News Link)How we fail black patients in pain (Association of American Medical Colleges)Streaming Between the Lines – “The Eugenics Crusade” - Call It Like I See It (Apple Podcasts)Netflix's "Behind the Curve" and the Belief in a Flat Earth - Call It Like I See It (Apple Podcasts)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss “It Was All a Lie: How the Republican Party Became Donald Trump,” the 2020 New York Times Bestseller written by longtime Republican political consultant and strategist Stuart Stevens which looks the lies the modern Republican Party built itself on and how that led to the party’s complete submission to former president Trump. It Was All a Lie: How the Republican Party Became Donald Trump (Penguin Random House)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss X Corp.’s recently filed lawsuit against advertisers for what it calls an illegal boycott relative to what its owner, Elon Musk, says he’s about (1:04). The guys also discuss Ice Cube’s flirtation with figures like Donald Trump and Tucker Carlson, particularly in light of his particular legacy in hip hop music and culture (21:37). Scoop: X sues major brands, ad industry group for antitrust (Axios)Elon Musk’s X sues advertisers over alleged ‘massive advertiser boycott’ after Twitter takeover (AP)Musk’s Twitter ‘Boycott’ Lawsuit Is a ‘Hideous Joke’: Former FTC Official (Rolling Stone) What Happened to Ice Cube? (Slate)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at Project 2025, what it represents, and why Republican nominee Donald Trump has started distancing himself from it (1:15). The guys also react to the gender controversy involving Algerian boxer Imane Khelif at the Olympics (32:04) and discuss a recent story on technological advancements in cloud seeding and making it rain on demand (48:02). Project 2025: The myths and the facts (Vox)Project 2025 - Mandate for Leadership (PDF from Project2025.org)Project 2025 (Wikipedia)Project 2025: A wish list for a Trump presidency, explained (BBC) Algerian boxer Imane Khelif clinches medal at Olympics after outcry fueled by gender misconceptions (AP)Imane Khelif is just the latest case of female athletes being questioned over their sex (NPR)Fact check on Algerian fighter Imane Khelif, DSDs, biology and Olympic boxing (USA Today) The New Gods of Weather Can Make Rain on Demand—or So They Want You to Believe (Wired) (Apple News Link)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss California’s move to raise the minimum wage to $20/hour for workers at large fast food chains and the hollow predictions of doom and gloom (1:17). The guys also discuss the lack of negative incentives in police hiring in America in light of the murder of Sonya Massey (20:20) and react to the theory that has been making the rounds that our known universe may be a black hole in some larger universe or multiverse (41:38). California put up its fast-food wage to $20. Its governor is adamant it's not causing employment to fall. (Business Insider)Southern California fast food jobs hit record high despite minimum wage hike (Orange County Register)The Unintended Consequences Of California’s $20 Minimum Wage For Fast-Food Workers (Forbes)What Are the Pros and Cons of Raising the Minimum Wage? (Investopedia) Body camera video focused national attention on an Illinois deputy’s fatal shooting of Sonya Massey (AP News)Deputy who killed Sonya Massey was removed from the Army, had DUIs and needed ‘high stress decision’ classes, records show (CNN)Deputy who killed Sonya Massey drew concerns over his aggression and integrity issues in previous jobs (NBC News)We're all living in a black hole: The bold theory scientists can't disprove - BBC Science Focus (Apple News Link)Why NASA Think We Might Live Inside a Black Hole - Bright Side Universe (YouTube)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss Neil Postman’s “Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business,” the 1985 book that looks at how various mediums of communication used by societies influence the messages people receive in the society and details the way television, which presents all content as entertainment, handicaps our ability to engage in serious matters like self-governance.
Amusing Ourselves to Death (Penguin Random House)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the rush to conspiracy theories following the assassination attempt of Donald Trump (1:34). The guys also discuss the death of privacy and whether companies should be allowed to keep archives of so much data about us after a second huge data breach from AT&T (27:55) and react to the record breaking heat being seen across the US (43:59). At the Trump rally, it was evening sun, songs and blue sky. Then came bullets, screams and blood (AP News)The Trump Shooting Conspiracies Outpaced Reality (The Atlantic)Trump Shooting Conspiracies Are Coming From Every Direction (Wired)After assassination attempt, Trump and Biden seek calm, unity (Reuters)The Russian "Firehose of Falsehood" Propaganda Model (RAND) AT&T says criminals stole phone records of ‘nearly all’ customers in new data breach (Tech Crunch)Nearly all AT&T cell customers’ call and text records exposed in a massive breach (CNN)AT&T's Major Data Breach Sparks Another Class-Action Lawsuit (PC Mag) Millions face extreme temperatures as heat dome covers US midwest and east (The Guardian)Th
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana weigh in on the age issue surrounding President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign and whether he is being selfish, or selfless, in refusing to drop out of the race (1:34). The guys also consider what is behind the effort to convince people the Civil War was about things other than slavery (25:24) and the problem many have expressed with Bronny James, the son of LeBron James, being drafted into the NBA despite his limited college track record (41:45). To Serve His Country, President Biden Should Leave the Race (NY Times)Debate proved neither Biden nor Trump is a good candidate. But one of them is far worse. (USA Today)Biden faced a low bar in his first post-debate interview. It’s not certain he cleared it (AP News)Nate Silver calls for Biden to resign after ‘incoherent’ comments in ABC interview (Yahoo! News)Defiant Biden tells donors: 'We're done talking about the debate' (Politico) Was the Civil War About Slavery? - PragerU (YouTube)Next time someone says the Civil War wasn’t about slavery, show them this (Vox)Cornerstone Speech (American Battlefield Trust)The famous 1861 'Cornerstone Speech' that aimed for hard truths about the Confederate battle flag (Christian Science Monitor) Why Bronny James getting a 4-year, $7.9M contract from the Lakers is no big deal (SBNation)55th Overall Draft Picks in NBA (StatMuse)Trash or Treasure? An Analysis of NBA Second Round Picks (Sports Analytics Group Berkeley)Lakers Rumors: Bronny James Expected To Spend Majority Of Rookie Season In G League (Lakers Nation)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss recent decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court which places us presidents above the law and reshape American society in important ways (1:36). The guys also react to recent criticism of a McKinsey study from 2015 which showed an association between companies with diverse leadership and profits (28:09) and the concern that some experts are expressing over falling birth rates around the world (50:11). Takeaways from the Supreme Court’s historic decision granting Donald Trump immunity (CNN)The Supreme Court Gives a Free Pass to Trump and Future Presidents (NY Times)The Supreme Court’s disastrous Trump immunity decision, explained (Vox)The Supreme Court gives the right a huge victory over expertise (WaPo)Diversity Was Supposed to Make Us Rich. Not So Much. (WSJ)Falling fertility rates pose major challenges for the global economy, report finds (CNBC)Suddenly There Aren’t Enough Babies. The Whole World Is Alarmed. (WSJ)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the U.S. Surgeon General’s recent push to get warning labels on social media platforms and the chances that it has any legs (2:03). The guys also react to Louisiana’s new effort to require the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms despite similar efforts being deemed unconstitutional in the past (21:29) and remember Willie Mays and consider how future generations will remember the pre and post segregation eras of America’s pastime (36:45). Tobacco-like warning label for social media sought by US surgeon general who asks Congress to act (AP)How Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta Failed Children on Safety, States Say (NY Times)Louisiana will require the 10 Commandments displayed in every public school classroom (NPR)Willie Mays Was the Greatest Baseball Player Who Ever Lived (The Ringer)How Negro Leagues stats change MLB record books: Jackie Robinson and more notable names get updated numbers (CBS Sports)Negro-League Players Don’t Belong in the MLB Record Books (The Atlantic)"Wouldn’t wish it on anyone": MLB icon Reggie Jackson details racism he faced (Axios)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider whether Tesla's shareholders voting to reinstate a pay package presently worth over $40+ billion to Elon Musk is indicative of things are going right, or wrong at Tesla, and in our society in general (1:41). The guys also react to the story of the Texas republican who won a school board seat to fight indoctrination that she later found out didn’t exist (28:22) and take a look at new research that suggests that alcohol in any amount is bad for you (43:30). Elon Musk’s multi-billion paycheck just got approved by stockholders. That could be a fraction of what’s coming (CNN)How Elon Musk’s $44.9B Tesla pay package compares with the most generous plans for other U.S. CEOs (AP)Elon Musk and the Decline of Tesla (The American Prospect)Expert insight: Does Elon Musk deserve his $56 billion pay package? (Audacy)Elon Musk cannot keep Tesla pay package worth more than $55 billion, judge rules A GOP Texas school board member campaigned against schools indoctrinating kids. Then she read the curriculum. (Texas Tribune) Is That Drink Worth It to You? (NY Times)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss Yanis Varoufakis’s 2023 book “Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism,” a book that lays out the evolution of capitalism over the 20th century and how following the Great Financial Crisis, factors like the monetary policy of major central banks and the enclosure of the Internet and information technology has led to the decline of capitalism and markets the rise of a new economic system which looks a lot like feudalism. Technofeudalism, By Yanis Varoufakis (Penguin Random House)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how quickly followers of Donald Trump were to attack the pillars of the American system like courts and a jury following Trump’s conviction and the almost religious manner in which Trump defines reality for his followers (1:24). The guys also consider Jerry Seinfeld’s “agreed-upon hierarchy” comments and whether too much was being made of them (26:22) and how the extensive misogyny in rap music can affect one’s behavior and/or enjoyment of the music, particular as one ages (46:00). Trump Was Convicted by a Jury, Not by His Political Enemies (Wall Street Journal)Republicans are sticking by Trump, the felon — even in battleground states (Politico)The Texas GOP Has Made Its Bed With Trump—Conviction Be Damned (Texas Monthly)Trump supporters call for riots and violent retribution after verdict (Reuters)Trump supporters try to dox jurors and post violent threats after his conviction (NBC News)Trump allies signal they’re declaring war against Republican Senate candidate (The Independent) Jerry Seinfeld Says He’s Nostalgic for “Agreed-Upon Hierarchy” and Misses “Dominant Masculinity” (Yahoo!)Jerry Seinfeld on the Rules of Comedy—and Life | Honestly with Bari Weiss (YouTube) Inside My Complicated Relationship With Rap Music (Esquire)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the extent to which Justice Samuel Alito’s flag flying controversy undermines the Supreme Court as an institution and whether that may be the point (1:16). The guys also discuss the NCAA’s history settlement that will result in revenue sharing with college sports players (16:00), react to the claim from one scientist that he can prove we live in a simulation (32:31), and consider whether humans are in fact addicted to addiction (43:42). Dems Call for Alito to Recuse Himself From Jan. 6 Cases Over Upside-Down Flag (Rolling Stone)A Christian Nationalist Battle Flag Flew at Justice Alito’s Vacation Home (Rolling Stone)NCAA settlement a historic day for paying college athletes. What comes next? (ESPN)A Scientist Says He Has the Evidence That We Live in a Simulation (Popular Mechanics)Food, sex, drugs and more – are we addicted to addiction? (New Scientist) (Apple News Link)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss illiberalism, which is the opposite of the liberalism ideal that forms the philosophical basis of the American constitutional setup, and some recent articles that suggest that home grown illiberalism has been a central feature and not a periodic diversion in American culture (1:31). The guys also take a look at recent studies on how fluoride consumption may be bad for fetuses (35:17) and the protests in New Caledonia over the mining of nickel for EVs and batteries (46:16). The Deep, Tangled Roots of American Illiberalism (NY Times)The Illiberalism at America’s Core (The New Republic)Pregnant? Researchers want you to know something about fluoride (LA Times)Behind New Caledonia’s Riots, a Fight Over Vast Reserves of Nickel (Wall Street Journal) (Apple News Link)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the story of Lauren Southern, the right wing influencer whose life experiences now have her publicly questioning the “tradwife” mindset she once was a big promoter of (1:25). The guys also react to the death sentence given to Iranian hip hop hero Toomaj Salehi for his music and criticism of Iran’s controlling regime (39:45). Lauren Southern: how my tradlife turned toxic (Unherd.com)Iran’s hip-hop hero refused to be silenced. Now he’s been sentenced to death (The Times) (Apple News Link)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what appears to be a transparent and ongoing attempt by former president Donald Trump to exert dominion over American legal and electoral system (1:19). The guys also consider whether human consciousness may be a byproduct of entropy (40:27). Judge Cites Trump for Contempt, and Says He Is Attacking the Rule of Law (NY Times)Trump says he will only accept 2024 election results ‘if everything’s honest’ (CNN)As Trump airs his election doubts, many supporters say they won't accept a Biden win in 2024 (NBC News)Human Consciousness Could Be a Side Effect of Entropy, Study Suggests (Science Direct)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana are joined by Grace Harry, author of the 2023 book “The Joy Strategist,” and discuss notable items from the book and what’s next for her (1:39). The James, Tunde, and Grace also react to Jerry Seinfeld’s recent assertions that the “extreme left” and PC crap” are responsible for the demise of TV comedy sitcoms (34:09). The Joy Strategist: Your Path To Inner Change (Andscape Books)Jerry Seinfeld Causes Uproar With Comments About 'Extreme Left and P.C. Crap' Ruining Comedy (Huffpost)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at what's going on at Columbia University and other college campuses where so called peaceful protests on campuses over Israel’s actions in Gaza are creating quite a stir on campus (1:22). The guys also weigh in on whether the slotted salary for former Iowa Hawkeye star and recent #1 draft pick Caitlin Clark is unfair compared to men’s sports or more generally (39:53).
Columbia cancels in-person classes; protesters arrested at Yale and NYU: Updates (USA Today)
Columbia University main campus classes will be hybrid until semester ends; NYU students, faculty arrested during protests (CNN)
Columbia, Free Speech and the Coddling of the American Right (NY Times)
Why Anti-Israel Protesters Won’t Stop Harassing Jews (Intelligencer)
Who’s Behind the Anti-Israel Protests (WSJ)
Caitlin Clark salary criticism a ‘false narrative,’ says WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert (CNBC)
Shaquille O'Neal Says ‘It’s Up to the People to Support’ Caitlin Clark and WNBA in Salary Uproar (People)
The WNBA’s Future Can Be Seen in the NBA’s Past (Global Sport Matters)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the “culture of fear” that many scientists are saying has developed around gender medicine research (1:32). The guys also react to the rap beef involving Drake, Kendrick Lamar and other heavyweights that recently exploded and consider why it seems we do not see high profile rap beefs like in the past (31:51).
‘This isn’t how good scientific debate happens’: academics on culture of fear in gender medicine research (The Guardian)
Anti-Trans Bills Disregard the Science on Sex and Gender (The Progressive Magazine)
American College of Pediatricians: No Benefits From ‘Gender-Affirming’ Interventions (Daily Citizen, from Focus on the Family)
19 Burning Questions About Rap’s Civil War (The Ringer)
NBA Slam Dunk Contest: Stars Say Risk Not Worth The Reward (Sportico)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the explosion of sports gambling in society and how it has changed both the business of and culture around sports (1:16). The guys also react to recent revelations on how ultra processed food changes the way our brains work (34:41).
America Made a Huge Bet on Sports Gambling. The Backlash Is Here. (The Wall Street Journal)
In the wake of the Shohei Ohtani scandal, can sports and legal gambling coexist? (Yahoo! News)
Cavs head coach says he received threats from sports gamblers (Axios)
Will the politics of sports gambling make it the next national ‘addiction’ crisis? (The Hill)
Gambling addiction hotlines say volume is up and callers are younger as online sports betting booms (NBC News)
The New Science on What Ultra-Processed Food Does to Your Brain (The Wall Street Journal)
From anxiety to cancer, the evidence against ultra-processed food piles up (NPR)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at Florida’s recent law which, among other things, operates to ban kids under 14 from social media, and in light of the dangers posed by social media, react to the criticism that has called the ban unconstitutional and/or hypocritical (1:16). The guys also weigh in on President Biden’s issuance of a statement recognizing Trans Visibility Day, which generated a lot of controversy because the day fell on Easter this year (33:12).
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signs bill that bans children under 14 from having social media accounts (NBC News)
DeSantis signs ban on kids using social media (Tampa Bay Times)
Florida’s DeSantis signs one of the country’s most restrictive social media bans for minors (AP News)
Florida Has Banned Kids Using Social Media, but It Won’t Be That Simple (NY Times)
DeSantis lauds 'free state' of Florida. He should let parents decide kids' social media use. (USA Today)
Trump and Republicans unite in fury at Biden after Trans Visibility Day falls on Easter Sunday by chance (The Independent)
Posts misrepresent White House Easter egg contest, Day of Transgender Visibility proclamation (AP News)
American Egg Board forced to respond to Republican conspiracy theory about White House Easter event (The Independent)
Following the recent antitrust lawsuit filed against Apple in the US, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the ongoing efforts in the US and in Europe to attack several of Apple’s business practices in in today’s view of the historical context of antitrust enforcement (1:21). The guys also explain why it is a good thing that some of the findings from the new James Webb Space Telescope are knocking holes many of our current theories on how the universe works (40:41).
Apple sued by Biden administration over alleged iPhone 'monopoly power' (NBC News)
Green bubbles, Apple Pay and other reasons why America says Apple is breaking the law (CNN)
Apple to put USB-C connectors in iPhones to comply with EU rules (The Guardian)
EU investigating Apple, Google and Meta's suspected violations of new Digital Markets Act (CBS News)
US Regulators Urge Congress to Look Into Grocery Profits (VOA News)
Author Thom Hartmann says average family pays $5K ‘monopoly tax’ to large companies (The Hill)
James Webb telescope confirms there is something seriously wrong with our understanding of the universe (Live Science)
Physicist Claims Universe Has No Dark Matter And Is 27 Billion Years Old (Science Alert)
Did the James Webb telescope ‘break the universe’? Maybe not (Science News)
What are the true colors of images from the James Webb Space Telescope? (Space.com)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the extent to which the various reactions of people to the release of the manipulated Kate Middleton photo demonstrates what it may look like to live in a world where reality and synthetic realities may be impossible to distinguish (1:24). The guys also discuss the evolution of dating apps in light of the recently filed lawsuit that contends that dating apps are now designed more to keep people coming back, not help people connect (37:35).
Kate Middleton and the End of Shared Reality (The Atlantic)
Countering Truth Decay (RAND Corporation)
How to Tackle Truth Decay (The Atlantic)
Tinder, other Match dating apps encourage compulsive use, lawsuit claims (Reuters)
It’s Not You: Dating Apps Are Getting Worse (NY Times)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look the potential ban of TikTok that is working through the US Congress and consider whether this is more about data privacy and algorithmic manipulation or playing on American’s fear of China (1:07). The guys also discuss the controversy over Sheryl Swoopes comments about Caitlin Clark and also Swoopes’ thoughts about whether she could be being racist (33:36).
TikTok is a "national security issue," Sens. Mark Warner and Marco Rubio say (CBS News)
Is the new push to ban TikTok for real? (Vox)
Federal judge blocks Montana's TikTok ban before it takes effect (NPR)
EU warns Elon Musk after Twitter found to have highest rate of disinformation (The Guardian)
Trump to block U.S. downloads of TikTok, WeChat on Sunday- officials (Reuters)
Trump’s ‘key money’ request complicates Microsoft-TikTok deal (PC World)
Sheryl Swoopes walks back controversial Caitlin Clark comments: ‘I made a mistake’ (Today)
Opinion: Sheryl Swoopes is right: Black people can’t be racist (LA Times)
Oh Lord, Sheryl Swoopes Says 'Black People Can't Be Racist' And Conservatives Lose Their Minds (The Root)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss some key takeaways from the U.S Supreme Court’s decision to forbid states from taking Donald Trump, or any other “oathbreaking insurrectionist,” off the ballot under the disqualification clause of the 14th amendment (1:08). The guys also consider the idea that human brains are wired to avoid exercise and what can be done to overcome this (44:04).
Trump v Anderson (pdf)(supremecourt.gov)
Supreme Court says Trump can appear on 2024 ballot, overturning Colorado ruling (CBS News)
The Supreme Court’s “Unanimous” Trump Ballot Ruling Is Actually a 5–4 Disaster (Slate)
After Trump wins at the Supreme Court, some warn it may be harder for Congress to boot 'oathbreaking insurrectionists' (NBC News)
The Supreme Court Once Again Reveals the Fraud of Originalism (The Atlantic) (Apple News Link)
Your Brain is Built to Avoid Exercise. Here's Why (BBC Science Focus)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the extent to which America’s extreme and increasingly sticky concentration of wealth in its billionaire class may put its market economy and representative democracy in peril (1:23). The guys also discuss the concept of freedom of speech in the US in light of the tragic story of Alexei Navalny in Russia (42:04).
Where do billionaires come from? Mom and Dad. (Vox)
The Estate Tax is Irrelevant to More Than 99 Percent of Americans (ITEP.org)
What is the national deficit? (Treasury.gov)
What is the national debt? (Treasury.gov)
Putin foe Alexei Navalny dies in jail, West holds Russia responsible (Reuters)
Nerve agents, poison and window falls. Kremlin foes have been attacked or killed over the years (AP News)
Trump Calls Himself ‘Political Dissident’ At CPAC Speech After Navalny Comparison (Forbes)
First Amendment - Constitution of the United States (Congress.gov)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider whether Russia’s goals in dividing and undermining the US have been achieved in light of what appears to be an increasing one way love affair with Russia coming out of at least a part of America’s political right (1:19). The guys also take a look at whether society tends to overemphasize messages of victimhood to Black Americans in a way that is detrimental to Black Americans (45:59).
Russia’s objective in the U.S. has already largely been achieved (WaPo)
Putin has made clear Russia is our civilizational enemy (NY Post)
Tuberville: Putin open to peace but ‘DC warmongers’ want to prolong Ukraine conflict (AL.com)
Tucker Carlson gets roasted for praising decades-old shopping cart tech in Russia (Business Insider)
Putin Unlikely To Stop In Russia And Ukraine (Forbes)
Give Black Americans hope and support, not messages of victimhood (Miami Herald)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at Raoul Peck’s 2016 documentary “I Am Not Your Negro,” which features the commentary and work of one of America’s intellectual giants, James Baldwin (1:24). The guys also discuss how stay at home parenting is devalued by America’s institutions even though many often suggesting it is good for society (44:39).
I Am Not Your Negro (PBS)
I Am Not Your Negro (YouTube)
The Paradox of Stay-at-Home Parents (The Atlantic) (Apple News Link)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider what the suggestion that Taylor Swift and her relationship with NFL star Travis Kelce is a psyop really says about our political and media culture (1:17). The guys also discuss hobbies and why science thinks they are good for us (43:02).
Taylor Swift Conspiracy Theorists Get Psyops All Wrong (Wired)
Psychological operations (United States) (Wikipedia)
Trump Allies Pledge ‘Holy War’ Against Taylor Swift (Rolling Stone)
Hannity: Taylor Swift should ‘think twice’ about Biden endorsement (The Hill)
The Psychology of Conspiracy Theorists: More Than Just Paranoia (Neuroscience News)
Why Having a Little Hobby Is So Good for You, According to Science (Self)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the use of tariffs in light of recent campaign talk and consider whether in a modern context, they can be an answer to boosting the prospects of American workers (1:21). The guys also discuss polyamory and the way it seems to be having a bit of a moment in the culture (39:03).
How do tariffs work? | CNBC Explains (YouTube)
Donald Trump is preparing for a massive new trade war with China (WaPo)
Donald Trump wants to impose a 10% tariff. Here's what happened when Nixon tried the same thing. (Yahoo! Finance)
Haley hits Trump on tariffs ahead of her Wall Street fundraisers (CNBC)
Tariff in United States history (Wikipedia)
Historical Aspects of US Trade Policy (National Bureau of Economic Research)
Polyamory: Lots of Sex, Even More Scheduling (Wall Street Journal) (Apple News Link)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to the “God Made Trump” video and the trend of comparing Donald Trump to Jesus or other biblical figures ,and consider whether what we are seeing is normal politics, a religious movement, or something else altogether (1:31). The guys also discuss plastistones, the newly discovered sedimentary rock that is being seen around the world and is based in part on our plastic waste (45:15).
Trump shares bizarre biblical video saying God made him to be America’s ‘caretaker’ (The Independent)
The Deification of Donald Trump Poses Some Interesting Questions (NY Times)
Experts alarmed after Trump demands immunity to do “infinite crimes” in 2 am Truth Social rant (Salon)
A New Study Shows Us the Single Biggest Motivation for the Jan. 6 Rioters | Amanpour and Company (YouTube)
Republican senator says 'democracy isn't the objective' of US system (The Guardian)
A Strange Plastic Rock Has Ominously Invaded 5 Continents (Popular Mechanics)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the stats on the crime rate in the U.S., which by the numbers seems to be falling, and consider what it means that the vast majority of Americans perceive that crime is increasing (1:28). The guys also discuss tipping, how it seems to be becoming more widespread with the use of technology, and whether expectations on tipping could ever go so far to create a real backlash (40:20).
Most people think the U.S. crime rate is rising. They're wrong. (NBC News)
Has Gratuity Culture Reached a Tipping Point? (The New Yorker) (Apple News Link)
(SPOLIER ALERT) James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to Christopher Nolan’s 2023 blockbuster film, “Oppenheimer” and David Grubin’s 2009 PBS documentary film “The Trials of J. Robert Oppenheimer,” and take a look at how each delved into the life of Oppenheimer and highlighted both his leading of the team which developed the first atomic bomb in the 1940s and his subsequent fall from grace due to alleged ties to communism during what is called the second Red Scare period in American History.
The Trials of J. Robert Oppenheimer (2009) (PBS)
The Trials of J. Robert Oppenheimer (YouTube)
Oppenheimer (2023) (Oppenheimermovie.com)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider how the recent rulings out of Colorado and Maine that Donald Trump is ineligible to be president put their desires and/or ideals in conflict with what the Constitution dictates (1:42). The guys also discuss whether 2023 being the warmest year on record will create more urgency or apathy as far as taking action to deal with the climate (45:20).
Colorado Supreme Court declares Donald Trump is ineligible for the White House (AP News)
Maine's secretary of state tells NPR why she disqualified Trump from the ballot (NPR)
Will Trump’s disqualification case be Bush v. Gore for 2024? (The Hill)
The Colorado Ruling Changed My Mind (The Atlantic) (Apple News link)
The Sweep and Force of Section Three (UPenn Law Review)
It's over: 2023 was Earth's hottest year, experts say. (USA Today)
2023 was Earth’s warmest on record. Will this year be even hotter? (WaPo)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to an excellent video from Arken the Amerikan entitled “How Liberty Dies: The Politics of Star Wars” and discuss how the politics of Star Wars contain real world lessons for democratic societies (1:29). The guys also take a look at some of the efforts being taken by some billionaire to achieve immortality, and the science that seemingly stands in their way (50:41).
How Liberty Dies: The Politics of Star Wars, by Arken the Amerikan (YouTube)
Why You'll (Probably) Never Live Forever (Popular Mechanics) (Apple News Link)
As hip hop turns 50, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how culture and technology have influenced both its founding and its development over the years and react to the documentary “Hip Hop at 50: Rhythms, Rhymes & Reflections,” which is currently airing on Hulu (1:35). The guys also take a look at the ongoing effort by prosecutors in the RICO case against Young Thugs to use his lyrics against him in court and consider the pro wrestling nature of some rapper’s lyrics and personas (46:12).
Hip-hop 50: The party that started hip-hop (BBC)
Hip Hop at 50: Rhythms, Rhymes & Reflections (Hulu)
Fat Joe Says 'I've Lied in Almost 95 Percent of My Songs,' Defends Young Thug Amid Lyrics Being Used In RICO Trial (Complex)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the recent reporting coming out of the Middle East that for years now, Israel’s government had played a role in the propping up of Hamas’ government in Gaza through its backing of millions in funds from Qatar (1:51). The guys also react to the report that the riches 1% of people in the world are putting as much climate change driving carbon in the atmosphere as the poorest 2/3 of people in the world (42:47).
‘Buying Quiet’: Inside the Israeli Plan That Propped Up Hamas (NY Times)
Qatar sent millions to Gaza for years – with Israel’s backing. Here’s what we know about the controversial deal (CNN)
Freeing hostages, hosting Hamas: Qatar's influence in Israel-Gaza war, explained (NPR)
The United States and Qatar: Strategic Partners Advancing Peace and Security (US Dept. of State)
What Trump's Qatar Tweets Revealed (The Atlantic)
World's richest 1% emitting enough carbon to cause heat-related deaths for 1.3 million people, report finds (CBS)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the expulsion of George Santos from the U.S. House of Representatives and consider the extent to which people tolerate, or even embrace, lying from politicians (1:37). The guys also take a look at what some may call a quixotic push by some us Muslim Americans to abandon Joe Biden in 2024 because of his stance on the Israeli - Hamas war (42:02).
House votes to expel indicted Rep. George Santos from Congress (NBC News)
Santos, now booted from the House, got elected as a master of duplicity – here’s how it worked (The Conversation)
Pathological Lying in Politics (Psychology Today)
These Republicans Are Furious an Indicted Serial Liar Is No Longer in Congress (Rolling Stone)
Why people tolerate politicians’ lies. (Fortinberry Murray)
Republican congressman says George Santos defrauded him and his mother (NBC News)
John Fetterman Pays George Santos to Troll Bob Menendez (Daily Beast)
Swing-state Muslim leaders launch campaign to ‘abandon’ Biden in 2024 (Politico)
Muslim Americans in swing states launch anti-Biden campaign (Axios)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the turmoil that took place recently with OpenAI and its leadership, including key things that seemed to set the stage for it and the path things seem to be on in its aftermath, and consider whether the exercise of caution in the development of AI is even possible (1:34). The guys also discuss eye contact and take a look at a recent study which suggests that people rarely make direct eye contact when conversing with strangers (48:51).
OpenAI Tried to Fire Sam Altman. It Only Made Him More Powerful. (The Ringer)
OpenAI’s board might have been dysfunctional–but they made the right choice. Their defeat shows that in the battle between AI profits and ethics, it’s no contest (Fortune)
Sam Altman Returns as OpenAI CEO. Here’s How It Happened (Time)
The Unsettling Lesson of the OpenAI Mess (NY Times)
Unpacking the hype around OpenAI’s rumored new Q* model (MIT Technology Review)
Businesses, tech groups warn EU against over-regulating AI foundation models (Reuters)
Making Eye Contact With Someone Has a Surprisingly Powerful Hidden Effect (Science Alert)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the apparent disconnect between what the numbers are telling us about the economy, which is that it is doing pretty well, and the negative view of the economy that is reflected in recent polling and just general sentiment (1:57). The guys also react to new evidence that confirms that the Vikings were traveling back and forth to North America up to 500 years before Columbus (45:54).
Economic Viewpoints: Retail Sales Dip, But Consumers Keep Spending (US Chamber of Commerce)
CNN Poll: Half of Americans think the economy is getting worse, despite months of stronger economic news (CNN)
The Share of Americans Who Are Mortgage-Free Is at an All-Time High (Bloomberg)
Never Mind the 1%. Mini-Millionaires Are Where Wealth Is Growing Fastest (WSJ) (Apple News Link)
How the American middle class has changed in the past five decades (Pew Research Center)
Javier Milei, a Self-Described Anarcho-Capitalist, Is Elected President of Argentina (WSJ) (Apple News Link)
A Stunning Discovery Proves That Vikings Reached the Americas Before Columbus (Popular Mechanics)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss ongoing blockade of the confirmation of military promotions by Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville of Alabama and how his “my way or the highway” approach is so antithetical to the principle of compromise that is baked into the U.S. system by the Constitution (1:10). The guys also react to a recent study which suggests that walking can be as good as Viagra for men (44:32).
Why a single senator is blocking US military promotions and what it means for the Pentagon (AP)
Military families and retired service members lobby to end Tuberville's blockade (CBS News)
Tommy Tuberville Has Taken Another Breathtakingly Bad Stance on Diversity (Vanity Fair)
Sen. Tuberville criticized for remarks on white nationalists: ‘I call them Americans’ (AP)
Senate Republicans erupt in anger over Tuberville’s military freeze (WaPo)
'Lying to America': GOP lawmaker blasts his fellow Republicans, vows he won't seek reelection (USA Today)
There's a Free, Low-Risk Alternative to Viagra, Study Shows (Science Alert)
Sarah Colt’s “The Gilded Age” takes a look at the rapid industrialization and growth, as well as the exploding wealth gap between the capital class and the working class which defined the late nineteenth century in the United States, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss their takeaways from documentary, which originally aired in 2018 on PBS, including what drove the mass accumulations of wealth, how such wealth can warp society and politics, and how this period may mirror what is happening in the U.S. today.
The Gilded Age (PBS)
The Gilded Age Documentary (Amazon)
The Gilded Age Documentary (iTunes)
The Gilded Age Documentary (YouTube)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the tens of billions in federal child care funds that recently expired and what the role of government should be for something like child care (1:28). The guys also consider why it always seems like masculinity is under attack (32:29).
Federal childcare funding is about to expire–and it could be terrible for the U.S. economy (Forbes)
Opinion: Federal funding for child care is about to fall off a cliff. Why that’s a disaster (LA Times)
End of federal program funding childcare centers could impact local economy (CBS News Miami)
Column: U.S. policy basically discourages having kids. Now our economy is paying the price (LA Times)
Are We Not Men? (Esquire)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the way many have seemed to want to take sides in an all or nothing way when viewing and discussing the Israel and Hamas war, and how several factors in our society seem to be involved in promoting this approach (1:37). The guys also react to Robert Sapolsky’s premise in his new book “Determined” that humans actually have no free will (45:29).
Harvard Student Groups Face Intense Backlash for Statement Calling Israel ‘Entirely Responsible’ for Hamas Attack (The Harvard Crimson)
‘Stunned and sickened.’ Wexner Foundation cuts ties with Harvard over ‘tiptoeing’ on Hamas (CNN)
The Anguished Fallout from a Pro-Palestinian Letter at Harvard (The New Yorker)
Top law firm rescinds job offers to Ivy League students over Israel letters (NBC News)
York University threatens to revoke student unions' status over Israel-Hamas statements (CTV News Toronto)
Disinformation surge threatens to fuel Israel-Hamas conflict (Reuters)
The Israel-Hamas War Is Drowning X in Disinformation (Wired)
What happens when a group of Fox News viewers watch CNN for a month? (The Guardian)
Stanford scientist, after decades of study, concludes: We don’t have free will (LA Times)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the dysfunction in the US House of Representatives following the ouster of Kevin McCarthy as Speaker of the House that some Republicans seem to be intentionally driving and consider what may be the source of it (1:31). The guys also react to some recent economic data which shows that Latinos in the us now have an economic output that exceeds that of the nation of India (40:22).
House Republicans are fighting over their next leader. Here’s what you need to know. (Vox)
The GOP Won't Introduce A New Party Platform For 2020. So What Does It Stand For? (NPR - WBUR)
Chaos in Congress points to failures in the U.S. system (WaPo)
Conservative media whips speaker votes for Rep. Jim Jordan (Axios)
Hannity Lashes Out at ‘Snowflake’ Republicans Annoyed By His Aggressive Lobbying For Jim Jordan: ‘I Offer No Apologies For Doing My Job’ (Mediaite)
U.S. Latinos' economic output closing in on Germany (Axios)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the historical context of the current conflict between Israel and Hamas and consider whether after 75+ years of conflict, there is any pathway to an end to this cycle of violence (1:13). The guys also discuss some recent research into what was happening in the Americas right before Columbus landed (48:44).
Hamas surprise attack out of Gaza stuns Israel and leaves hundreds dead in fighting, retaliation (AP News)
Israel pulverises Gaza after Hamas attack as it collects its dead (Reuters)
How Hamas staged Israel lightning assault no-one thought possible (BBC)
The Entire Israeli-Palestine Conflict Explained | Secret Wars Uncovered | War Stories (YouTube)
History of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict (Wikipedia)
What Do You Know About 1491? (The Atlantic) (Apple News Link)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider how anger affects one’s ability to think, the types of actors in a society that have an interest in using anger to manipulate others for their own benefit, and whether people could be angrier now than in years past (1:19). The guys also react to the recent arrest of a suspect for the 1996 murder of rapper Tupac Shakur and take a look at the circumstances of the arrest, especially considering how long ago the murder was (44:58).
Anger overwhelms our thinking brain. Here’s how to bring it back online. (WaPo) (Apple News Link)
The age of rage: are we really living in angrier times? (The Guardian)
Anger (Wikipedia)
The Media Needs to Keep You Angry. Don't Feed Into It (Foundation for Economic Education)
Angry Americans: How political rage helps campaigns but hurts democracy (The Conversation)
Why Social Media Makes Us Angrier—and More Extreme (Psychology Today)
The man charged in Tupac Shakur’s 1996 shooting death has long put himself at the crime scene. Here’s what we know about him (CNN)
Why it took 27 years for an arrest in Tupac Shakur’s Las Vegas killing (LA Times)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to the corruption allegations against Senator Bob Menendez and discuss whether the type of movie villain style corruption is more of a risk than the legal corruption that is omnipresent in our political system (1:51). The guys also comment on some recent publications that investigate how a two-parent household can be beneficial for kids (42:03).
Here are the charges Sen. Bob Menendez is facing (The Hill)
Sen. Bob Menendez and wife indicted on bribery charges; DOJ seizes gold bars and $500,000 (CNN)
The Menendez Scandal Reflects The World That SCOTUS Built (The Lever)
How the Gilded Age’s Top 1 Percent Thrived on Corruption (History Channel)
Sheldon Whitehouse Just Laid Out the Scheme to Control the Federal Courts (Esquire)
Who are the Biggest Donors? (Open Secrets)
Is Single Parenthood the Problem? (The Atlantic) (Apple News Link)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the United Auto Workers’ strike and consider whether it, either alone or in the context of the ongoing Hollywood strikes, represent a needed resurgence in union activity (1:15). The guys also discuss the recent expert recommendations on which exercises and/or equipment in the gym that one should avoid (39:59).
UAW boss says workers shouldn’t accept lower wages so ‘greedy people like Elon Musk can build more rocket ships’ (Yahoo! Finance)
The UAW’s big asks, unusual strike strategy, and what this all means for you (Vox)
Strike Is a High-Stakes Gamble for Autoworkers and the Labor Movement (NY Times)
Aggregated CEO-to-worker compensation ratio for the 350 largest publicly owned companies in the United States from 1965 to 2021 (Statista)
CEO pay has skyrocketed 1,460% since 1978 (Economic Policy Institute)
Writers union will resume strike negotiations with studios this week (CNBC)
Beyond Labor Day: 3 Ways Unions Have Helped American Workers (Time)
Why You Should Skip the Hip Abduction Machine — and These 5 Other Moves (Shape)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look back at the Iran Contra scandal, which despite not seeming to have the notoriety of Watergate or the sizzle of Clinton-Lewinsky, was a pretty big deal and one that illustrated both how the U.S. governmental system can be exploited and the mechanisms in the system that allows it to fight back when lines are crossed (01:13).
The Iran-Contra Affair (PBS)
Iran-Contra Explained: The Wall of Crazy Scandal (YouTube)
With more research being done on the actual effects of trigger warnings, setting aside their intent, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana weigh in on the debate over trigger warnings, whether they are helpful, and whether they can cause unintended consequences (01:45). The guys also discuss India recently becoming the first country to land near the south pole of the Moon (43:45).
I Was Wrong About Trigger Warnings (The Atlantic) (Apple News Link)
What if Trigger Warnings Don’t Work? (The New Yorker)
Growth after trauma (American Psychological Association)
India’s Chandrayaan-3 landed on the south pole of the Moon − a space policy expert explains what this means for India and the global race to the Moon (The Conversation)
What's next for India's Chandrayaan-3 mission on the moon? (Space.com)
Fascism is a label that gets thrown around more often than is warranted, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what Fascism really is, how a society get slip into it, and the extent to which aspects of it can be seen today in the American system (01:36). The guys also take a look at Ozempic, its seemingly miracle results, and how it may kill the mentality that a lack of willpower is at the root of being overweight (44:08).
What is Fascism (Council on Foreign Relations)
Fascism (Wikipedia)
Trump Voters Trust Ex-President More Than Their Family and Friends: Poll (Newsweek)
DeSantis vows to ‘start slitting throats on day one’ (The Hill)
Ozempic Settles the Obesity Debate: It’s Biology Over Willpower (WSJ)
America’s Obsession With Weight-Loss Drugs Is Affecting the Economy of Denmark (WSJ)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider whether the fires in Maui and the hot tub like ocean temperatures off the Florida coast change the big picture concern about climate change and discuss whether we are seeing enough progress in sustainability to protect our habitat (01:38). The guys discuss recent research which views psychopathy along a spectrum, with some characteristics which may offer some potential benefits (41:02).
Hawaii wildfires: How did the Maui fires start and are they still burning? (Reuters)
Maui wildfire crews continue to fight "flare-ups" in Lahaina and inland, as death toll rises past 90 (CBS News)
The Clean Energy Future Is Arriving Faster Than You Think (NY Times)
Florida ocean records ‘unprecedented’ temperatures similar to a hot tub (The Guardian)
Ocean heat record smashed amid ‘hot tub’ temperatures: ‘The water feels like a bath’ (The Independent)
Can Psychopathic Tendencies Help You Achieve Success? (Smithsonian Magazine)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to a piece in the Wall Street Journal which asserts that the founding fathers anticipated a government takeover attempt like Donald Trump’s and discuss how what comes next will be a test of the American people as much as a test of the American system (01:47). The guys consider the difficulty in finding the line between common and normal negative feelings and signs of mental illness (42:16).
The Founders Anticipated the Threat of Trump (WSJ) (Apple News Link)
New charges against Trump focus on lies. Scholars see an authoritarian playbook (NPR)
'I'm coming after you:' Donald Trump threatens rivals; prosecutor seeks protective order (USA Today)
'Complete garbage': Kinzinger reacts to McCarthy's criticism of Trump charges | CNN (YouTube)
Fox News Brainwashing EXPOSED | The Kyle Kulinski Show (YouTube)
Being Anxious or Sad Does Not Make You Mentally Ill (The Atlantic) (Apple News Link)
Following a Congressional hearing which saw some interesting claims about alien space craft and “nonhuman biologics,” James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider how much legitimacy should be given to the revelations and whether a high level of scrutiny on the self-proclaimed whistleblower David Grusch is appropriate or if that is just shooting the messenger (01:20). The guys also take a look at the judicial reform efforts happening in Israel and how what many are describing as a parliamentary power grab really seems to have alarmed a large segment of the Israeli population (31:56).
Here are the 5 most memorable moments from Congress’ UFO hearing (NBC News)
What We Know—and Don't Know—About UFOs After the Congressional Hearing (Time)
The truth is out there. But this UFO ‘whistleblower’ likely doesn’t have it. (MSNBC)
Here's why Israelis are protesting Benjamin Netanyahu's judicial overhaul plan (ABC News)
Israel Has Already Lost (The Atlantic)
Potential Saudi-Israel normalization could see Palestinians thrown under the bus (The Times of Israel)
Israeli protesters keep pressure on Netanyahu over judicial overhaul (Al Jazeera)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to Florida’s newly approved standards for teaching african american history and consider how they may compare to other efforts to rewrite history, such as The Lost Cause of the Confederacy mythology (01:31). The guys also discuss the ongoing bipartisan effort to regulate social media companies and the algorithms they use to present content to users, particularly to minors (36:14).
New Florida teaching standards say African Americans received some ‘personal benefit’ from slavery (Politico)
Lost Cause of the Confederacy (Wikipedia)
Understanding the Lost Cause Myth (YouTube)
Algorithms Are Making Kids Desperately Unhappy (NY Times)
Murphy Op-Ed for the New York Times: Big Tech Algorithms Are Killing Kids' Sense of Discovery (Senator Chris Murphy)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the role of news media in holding powerful people and organizations accountable in light of Northwestern University’s recent firing of its head football coach, Pat Fitzgerald, following media reports which detailed the nature of the hazing allegedly taking place in the football program (01:48). The guys also take a look at how the discovery of lead in telecom transmission lines has affected the stock prices of several large tech companies and consider who should be responsible for the costs for removing the lead (36:40).
Northwestern caught in a mess of its own making (Yahoo! Sports)
Former NU football player details hazing allegations after coach suspension (The Daily Northwestern)
Pat Fitzgerald ponders litigation over his firing by Northwestern (ProFootballTalk)
Former Northwestern football players hire civil rights attorney to investigate hazing (AP News)
Why a Free Press Is Actually Good for the Economy (The Heritage Foundation)
AT&T Falls to 29-Year Low Amid Concerns of Cleanup Costs (Yahoo! Finance)
Telecom stocks are shedding billions in market value. Here’s what’s happening (Fast Company)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to a recent piece from The Atlantic which asserts that the way America’s modern cultural landscape has evolved has caused the Democratic Party to largely become the party of the status quo (01:16). The guys also consider how deep of a hole we are digging with our (over)use of plastics and if there is any way out (37:35).
The Democrats Are Now America’s Conservative Party (The Atlantic) (Apple News link)
How Plastics Are Poisoning Us (The New Yorker) (Apple News link)
With recent US Supreme Court decisions operating to remove societal guardrails put in place by previous generations, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss why the guardrails were in place and whether the guardrails are still necessary in the US (01:42). The guys also react to the smoke coming from Canadian wildfires that keeps coming to US cites and consider the interconnectivity of certain environmental conditions (39:33).
Supreme Court effectively ends affirmative action at colleges in landmark ruling (ABC News)
Supreme Court says 1st Amendment entitles web designer to refuse same-sex wedding work (NPR)
Sonia Sotomayor Pens Stunning Rebuke of Supreme Court's Discrimination Ruling: 'Today, the Court Shrinks' (People)
Why there won’t be a backlash against the Supreme Court this time (CNN)
Smoke will keep pouring into the US as long as fires are burning in Canada. Here’s why they aren’t being put out (CNN)
Seeing reports of a huge year over year increase in investment in building factories in the US, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at what may be driving this spike and what a boom in manufacturing would mean in the 21st century (01:31). The guys also discuss the financial independence, retire early lifestyle and why it may be inherently unable to deliver on its promise (32:46).
Factory Boom Sweeps US With Construction at Record $190 Billion (Bloomberg)
The US is building factories at a wildly fast rate (Insider)
A couple who retired early with $4.3 million say the FIRE lifestyle is wearing thin: ‘We don’t want to just keep throwing money on the pile and keep being cheap’ (Fortune)
Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) Explained: How It Works (Investopedia)
After checking out David Brooks’ thought provoking piece in the Atlantic on the outer limits of liberalism, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss liberalism as an ideology focused on individual liberty, where the bounds of individual liberty should be, and how the extremes of any ideology can lead to a difficult place (01:31). The guys also acknowledge Juneteenth and consider whether any honest telling of Black history would be considered woke by some (39:16).
The Outer Limits of Liberalism (The Atlantic)
Liberalism: where did it come from and are its days numbered? (The Economist - YouTube)
Ahead Of Juneteenth, Ron DeSantis Slashes Funding For Black History Programs In Florida (NewsOne)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what stood out in the federal indictment of Donald Trump and consider how this represents another instance where Trump demands that his supporters abandon their claimed principles when those principles do not serve him (01:29). The guys also react to the premise of a recent article in Esquire Magazine that asks whether the US is in a sex recession (39:23).
Indictment takeaways: Trump’s alleged schemes and lies to keep secret papers (AP News)
Former President Donald Trump's second indictment, annotated (CNN)
Donald Trump’s Documents Defense Appears to Be Unraveling: “This Is Secret Information. Look.” (Vanity Fair)
Why Trump was charged on secret documents and Clinton, Pence were not (WaPo)
James Comey criticizes William Barr, says Trump 'eats your soul in small bites' (USA Today)
We're Living Through a Sex Recession (Esquire Magazine - Apple Link) (Magzter Link)
Gen Z is having a sex recession — here are the depressing reasons why (NY Post)
With the NAACP issuing a travel advisory relating to Florida in response its belief that Florida is openly hostile to Blacks and other minority groups, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the half measure nature of the travel advisory tactic and whether it can be an effective way to exert political influence (01:32). The guys also consider how the formal ending of the Covid pandemic emergency by organizations like the WHO and CDC will affect sufferers of long Covid (39:09).
NAACP Issues Travel Advisory in Florida (NAACP.org)
NAACP president explains why the group issued Florida travel advisory (Politico)
‘The power of the Black dollar.’ NAACP travel advisory in Florida a reminder of ’90s boycott (Miami Herald)
‘Stop playing games:’ Florida officials push back against NAACP travel advisory (Click Orlando)
For Covid Long-Haulers, the Pandemic is Far From Over (WaPo) (Apple Link)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the uncharacteristic protests going on in China, how China’s past illustrates the substantial risk of public demonstrations like this, these stakes, and how the Chinese government appears to have backed itself into a corner with its zero-covid policy (01:30). The guys also to consider how people can spontaneously remember things we would rather not remember and how this can temporarily bring back the bad feelings from those memories (34:22).
Protests erupt across China in unprecedented challenge to Xi Jinping’s zero-Covid policy (CNN)
Rare protests against China’s ‘zero covid’ policy erupt across country (WaPo)
Fauci on Covid lab leak theory: ‘I have a completely open mind’ (Politico)
Apple has a huge problem with an iPhone factory in China (CNN Business)
Why do I remember embarrassing things I’ve said or done in the past and feel ashamed all over again? (The Conversation)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to the FTX collapse and consider how what led to this point may have been less about crypto and currency and more about humans and currency (01:29). The guys also to discuss this Live Nation/Ticketmaster anti-trust controversy that has apparently been brought to a head by people being upset at the failed roll out of Taylor Swift tour tickets (36:06).
Exclusive: At least $1 billion of client funds missing at failed crypto firm FTX (Reuters)
How Sam Bankman-Fried’s Crypto Empire Collapsed (NY Times)
Collapsed FTX owes nearly $3.1 billion to top 50 creditors (CNN)
Before his epic fall, Sam Bankman-Fried was hailed as a crypto genius. Some clients saw smoke and mirrors. (NBC News)
FTX investors fear they lost everything, and wonder if there's anything they can do (NPR)
Taylor Swift’s Ticketmaster meltdown: What happened? Who’s to blame? (WaPo)
Swifties know: the Ticketmaster fiasco shows America has a monopoly problem (The Guardian)
Justice Department Opens Investigation Into Live Nation Over Monopoly Concerns (Rolling Stone)
As more states move to remove the criminal punishment exception to the prohibition of slavery, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how economics and culture have led to this exception being exploited over the years (01:44). The guys also take a look at the growing trend in China to use of “height boosting shots” in healthy children and consider how societies should handle voluntary and/or cosmetic procedures in children (30:35).
The ‘Exception’: Five US States to Vote on Vestige of Slavery (Bloomberg)
Four states voted to abolish slavery, but not Louisiana. Here's why (BBC)
13TH (Netflix)
Convict Leasing (Wikipedia)
Rise of growth hormone use on children in China alarms health experts (Yahoo! News)
Two Florida medical boards advance ban on gender-affirming care for minors (NBC News)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the difficulty in, and importance of, distinguishing between what is real and what is not when it is known history has been hidden in the context of the antisemitic documentary promoted by Kyrie Irving, the experience of Black Americans, and human societies in general (01:59). The guys also discuss the tendency for people to perceive themself as the same person as they were in the past even though they may have changed (48:04).
What Does Kyrie Irving See in Anti-Semitic Conspiracy Theories? (The Atlantic)
Kanye, Kyrie, and Me (Rolling Stone)
See the Enduring Power of King Tut as Never Before (Nat Geo)(Apple News Link)
You're Not the Same Person You Used to Be - Here's Why That Matters (Prevention)(Apple News Link)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the recent antisemitic comments by Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, and consider whether the way mainstream society reacted was appropriate in light of his position and his status in society (01:41). The guys also take a look at recent research aimed at preventing AI from destroying humanity (42:04).
Adidas ends Ye deal over hate speech, costing rapper his billionaire status (Reuters)
Kanye West antisemitism controversy: What rapper said and how people have reacted (Sky News)
What Kanye West did: Antisemitic remarks, criticism and repercussions (Independent)
Kanye West may have finally reached the point of no return (WaPo)
Kyrie Irving Boosts Antisemitic Movie Peddling ‘Jewish Slave Ships’ (Rolling Stone)
Nets' Kyrie Irving defends his post about antisemitic movie (ESPN)
There’s a Damn Good Chance AI Will Destroy Humanity, Researchers Say in a New Study (Popular Mechanics)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the premise that is argued from time to time that the mindset of, and approach taken by, some environmentalists may be counterproductive as far as doing better on the environment (01:29). The guys also discuss the increasing pace of scientific discovery and why people’s view of modern times typically shortchanges what is coming in the future (42:22).
The energy historian who says rapid decarbonization is a fantasy (LA Times)
Not Everyone Should Have a Say (The Atlantic)
Neil deGrasse Tyson: If You Think We Live in Special Times, You’re Wrong (Popular Mechanics)
As it appears that we have seen the last January 6th hearing, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss their overall takeaways from the hearings and why the countless damming revelations seemed to have such little impact on the American public (01:16). The guys also discuss recent research on how eating late affects your body well into the next day (43:09).
The Jan. 6 hearings are over. Time to vote. (WaPo)
Jan. 6 Committee’s fact-finding and bipartisanship will lead to an impact in coming decades, if not tomorrow (The Conversation)
Jan. 6 Hearings Have No Impact on Opinion (Monmouth University)
The Russian "Firehose of Falsehood" Propaganda Model (RAND Corporation)
The Jan. 6 Hearings Are Over For Now. Trump’s Election Fraud Claims Are Not. (538)
The number of Republicans who believe Trump’s 'big lie' has fallen since the Jan. 6 hearings (Yahoo News)
Warning to late-night snackers: Eating later than 10pm makes you store more fat and feel hungrier the following day (Daily Mail UK)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take note of how many in the US seem to take little offense to being lied to by politicians they support, consider how many in the political class have reacted to this, and discuss George Washington’s warning to the country about the dangers of political parties (01:32). The guys also discuss OPEC’s recent cut in oil production and how this exposes a way in which our politics could harm national security (54:38).
Herschel Walker Urged Woman to Have a 2nd Abortion, She Says (NY Times)
Herschel Walker, and the GOP’s declining demand for morality in leaders (WaPo)
Herschel Walker (Wikipedia)
George Washington's Farewell Address (Wikipedia)
Russia and Saudi Arabia agree to massive cuts to oil output. Here's why it matters (NPR)
Biden says he'll release 10 million more barrels from the dwindling 'oil piggy bank' after OPEC's production cuts — but this is the big risk with more withdrawals (Yahoo! Finance)
U.S. delivers angry rebuke of massive OPEC+ production cut — and it could backfire for Saudi Arabia (CNBC)
Eugene Robinson’s “Disintegration” explores what Robinson refers to as “[t]he Splintering of Black America” that has followed integration, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the background and the framework presented in the book and discuss how they see some of the concepts illustrated in different parts of American society. NOTE: This podcast contains spoilers.
Disintegration: The Splintering of Black America (Publisher's Weekly)
The Great Unraveling (NY Times)
The 'Splintering' Of America's Black Population (NPR)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the Federal Reserve’s aggression in raising interest rates over the past few months, the fallout we can expect from it, and whether such aggression makes sense under the circumstances (01:29). The guys also weigh in on President Biden’s relaunch of the Cancer Moonshot initiative and the value of taking big swings in government (45:52).
Fed raises rates by another three-quarters of a percentage point, pledges more hikes to fight inflation (CNBC)
Buckle up, America: The Fed plans to sharply boost unemployment (CBS News)
Stock market continues long tumble as economic outlook sours (WaPo)
The Fed Signals More Pain. Volatility Is Sticking Around Too. (Barron's)
Biden touts his 'cancer moonshot' on the anniversary of JFK's 'man on the moon' speech (NPR)
Cancer Moonshot (National Cancer Institute)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider whether the apparent trafficking of migrants from southern states to northern cities is more of a request for assistance or an effort by some to stick it to their countrymen and discuss how immigrant issues have always had a big influence on American politics (01:35). The guys also take a look at the NBA’s report on the misdeeds of the controlling owner of the Phoenix Suns and their approach to discipline someone who is a franchise owner as opposed to an employee (46:22).
Texas sends another busload of migrants to Kamala Harris’s home (The Guardian)
Senator Ted Cruz says that transporting migrants is illegal, but commends GOP governors for it anyway (Insider)
A bus contractor hired by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to transport migrants to New York signed an agreement not talk to NY officials, complicating volunteer efforts to help: report (Yahoo News)
The Situation at the U.S.-Mexico Border Can't Be 'Solved' Without Acknowledging Its Origins (Time)
Phoenix Suns minority owner Jahm Najafi calls for Robert Sarver's resignation (ESPN)
NBA’s Discipline of Robert Sarver Is Perhaps Just the Beginning (Sports Illustrated)
LeBron James calls for Suns owner Robert Sarver's removal from NBA: 'Our league definitely got this wrong' (Yahoo Sports)
Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II and ascension of King Charles III, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the British monarchy’s evolution over the past 1000 years and the role it has played, and continues to play in countries around the world (01:25). The guys also discuss recent revelations about the body image problems many men are facing as a result of muscle dysmorphia (35:40).
King Charles III, the new monarch (BBC)
Not everyone mourns the queen. For many, she can't be separated from colonial rule (NPR)
King Charles’s ascension ignites debate over royals across Commonwealth (The Guardian)
How Britain stole $45 trillion from India (Al Jazeera)
The Kings And Queens of England: From William the Conqueror To Charles III (England Explore)
Muscle Dysmorphia: What it is and how Social Media is Making it Worse - Men's Health (Apple News link)
Zac Efron doesn't think his 'Baywatch' body is 'really attainable' (CNN)
There are many parallels between the 1933 “Business Plot” and recent events, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the historical record of the plot, the role Smedley Butler played in exposing it, and what can be learned from it about efforts to overthrow a democratic system from (01:23). The guys also take a look at recent research about chronotypes which suggests that the extent to which someone may be an early bird or a night owl could be something that is genetic (34:58).
Why is so little known about the 1930s coup attempt against FDR? (The Guardian)
"Gangsters of Capitalism": Jonathan Katz on the Parallels Between Jan. 6 and 1934 Anti-FDR Coup Plot - Democracy Now! (YouTube)
Smedley Butler and the Business Plot - Today I Found Out (YouTube)
"War is a Racket" (Google Books)
Your Chronotype May Just Be the Secret to Better Health (Prevention - Apple News link)
How to Find Your Chronotype for Better Sleep and Productivity, According to Psychologists (Good Housekeeping)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to CNN’s apparent effort to be less confrontational politically and discuss the (de)evolution of the news media into a profit centered entertainment offering (01:22). The guys also discuss Biden’s student loan forgiveness program and how the merits of government assistance are often judged based not on the amounts in question but rather on who is getting assisted (37:02).
CNN cancels 'Reliable Sources,' host Stelter leaving network (Yahoo!)
RIP Reliable Sources—and Corporate Media’s Willingness to Examine Itself (Fair.org)
With Brian Stelter’s ‘Reliable Sources’ Canceled, Who’s Left to Keep Tabs on the Media? (Variety)
Profits Slump at CNN as Ratings Plummet (NY Times)
You Literally Can't Believe The Facts Tucker Carlson Tells You. So Say Fox's Lawyers (NPR)
The Biden-Harris Administration's Student Debt Relief Plan Explained (US Dept Education)
Big New Details On Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness Plan, Including When To Expect Relief (Forbes)
White House Twitter Account Tells Republican Hypocrites To Sit Down And STFU (Vanity Fair)
Fact-checking 6 Criticisms of Biden's Student Loan Forgiveness Plan (Time)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to Ray Dalio’s Youtube video “Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order” and discuss how America’s historic and current trajectory match up with Dalio’s “big cycle” for empires (01:13). The guys also consider whether it is necessary for body positivity messaging to adopt anti-scientific messaging to be effective (40:22).
Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order by Ray Dalio (YouTube)
Record percentage says US headed in wrong direction: NBC poll (The Hill)
New Rule: Fat Acceptance | Real Time with Bill Maher - HBO (YouTube)
Obesity in the United States (Wikipedia)
How Food Companies Trick Consumers Into Eating Their Unhealthy Products (Yahoo! Finance)
It’s Our Culture, Not an Obesity Gene, That Makes People Fat, Expert Says (Healthline)
Strengthening School Lunch Nutritional Standards May Help Improve Obesity Outlook for Low-Income Children (Rand Corporation)
Following the FBI's retrieval of several boxes of sensitive documents from the residence of former President Trump, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the rising idolatry around Trump and the ongoing effort to subvert our government of laws and not men (01:13). The guys also react to reports that scientists have been able to bring cells from a pig back from the dead (40:22).
FBI executes search warrant at Trump's Mar-a-Lago in document investigation (CNN)
Seeing the substantial damage award that Alex Jones has been ordered to pay for pushing a lie, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss whether legal liability can be an effective check on misinformation peddling, especially considering how lucrative misinformation peddling appears to be (01:20). The guys also consider how the current shortage of teachers reflects a longstanding deprioritization of building up future generations (29:39).
Jury orders Alex Jones to pay Sandy Hook parents nearly $50 million in total (USA Today)
‘Never seen it this bad’: America faces catastrophic teacher shortage (WaPo)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss America’s two political party system, how the newly announced 3rd party, Forward, and its co-chairs Andrew Yang and Christine Whitman can make an impact, and why Joe Rogan pushback against claims that he is a Republican is also a pushback against the increasingly prevalent expectation that everyone must conform to the entire platform of one of the two dominant political parties (01:25). The guys also reflect on the life and legacy of Bill Russell (36:30).
Former Republicans and Democrats form new third U.S. political party (Reuters)
Political parties in the United States (Wikipedia)
Americans Are Shifting The Rest Of Their Identity To Match Their Politics (538)
Joe Rogan Fights Critics Who Claim He’s a Republican, Defends Gay Marriage: ‘I’m a Bleeding Heart Liberal (Variety)
Bill Russell, perhaps the greatest basketball player of all time, dies at 88 (Yahoo Sports)
A look back at Bill Russell’s remarkable life (WaPo)
Bill Russell, activist for the ages (Andscape)
Why Bill Russell is perhaps the most important player in NBA history (Yahoo Sports)
Seeing trucker protests nearly shutting down cargo operations at the Port of Oakland over a legal classification issue, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana break down the issue of independent contractor v employee and debate whether regulators are clearly overreaching or are justified in their efforts to rebalance working relationships (01:15). The guys also react to recent discussions about whether we can be exposed to too many beautiful faces and whether that can have negative effects on us (26:29).
Trucker protest shuts down operations at California port (ABC News)
What is AB5? The Bill Behind LA's Trucker Protest (Local NBC LA)
Independent truck drivers protest “gig worker law” AB5 at Port of Oakland (The Oaklandside)
California trucking prepares for shake-up under independent contractor law AB5 (Freight Waves)
Independent Contractor Defined (IRS.gov)
We weren’t meant to see this many beautiful faces (The Face)
50 years ago, the book, “The Limits of Growth,” made some controversial predictions about a potential collapse of civilization due to our culture’s unsustainable approach to growth, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at how the book got to its predictions and consider how things have developed since then (01:22). The guys also react to the recently uncovered history about a southbound route to freedom for enslaved Americans in the 1800s (31:38).
The Infamous 1972 Report That Warned of Civilization's Collapse (Wired)
Limits to Growth (pt1) | Original 1973 film about civilization collapse on schedule in 2020 (YouTube)
The Little-Known Underground Railroad That Ran South to Mexico (History.com)
A Chapter In U.S. History Often Ignored: The Flight Of Runaway Slaves To Mexico (NPR)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at Brittney Griner’s detention and recent trial in Russia and consider how common geopolitical leverage ploys seems dirtier when a person’s life or liberty is at stake (01:50). The guys also discuss Elon Musk’s move to get out of his contract to buy Twitter and how some in our society leverage adoration to avoid consequences for their actions (36:20).
Timeline of Brittney Griner’s detainment in Russia: Griner pleads guilty in court hearing (The Athletic)
Phoenix Mercury coach says Brittney Griner's detainment would be resolved 'if it was LeBron' (USA Today)
What Brittney Griner's detention in Russia tells us about basketball's gender pay gap (NPR)
US seeks full reset with Saudi Arabia, effectively moving on from the murder of Jamal Khashoggi (CNN)
Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou to be released after agreement with U.S. in wire fraud case (CNBC)
Trump threatened a trade war with Sweden over A$AP Rocky’s arrest (The Times)
Elon Musk Says He's Terminating Twitter Deal, Board to Fight (Time)
It Couldn’t Be More Obvious What Elon Musk Is Doing (Slate)
Opinion: The SEC alone can't police billionaire CEOs like Elon Musk (CNN)
Following reports on a Google engineer’s believe that Google has developed a sentient AI, James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and Robert Buschel discuss the idea of sentience in machines and how the increasingly advancing artificial intelligence in our technology could change society for better and/or worse (01:42). The guys also react to recent claims by some scientists that they are close to being able to de-age our bodies (35:13).
The Google engineer who thinks the company’s AI has come to life (WaPo)
The 'Benjamin Button' effect: Scientists can reverse aging in mice. The goal is to do the same for humans (CNN)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization and discuss how the win at all costs mentality invading our judicial system can be harmful to our overall system (01:26). The guys also take a look at BlackRock’s retreat from its past efforts to champion ESG investing (35:13).
Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (pdf)(supremecourt.gov)
The Supreme Court’s Argument For Overturning Roe v. Wade (538)
AOC says Supreme Court justices who lied under oath must face consequences for 'impeachable offense' (Yahoo)
Table: Number, Ratio and Rate of Reported Induced Abortions (MI Dept. of Health & Human Services)
How Southern Baptists became pro-life (Baptist Press)
Supreme Court backs coach in praying on field after games (AP)
Supreme Court strikes down New York gun law restricting concealed carry in major Second Amendment case (CNBC)
BlackRock will not be the 'environmental police' in ethical investing U-turn (Yahoo)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the newly launched LIV golf tour and discuss the strong reactions many have had to it as well as how sports washing efforts like these typically work (01:20). The guys also consider whether the commercialization of Juneteenth is something to be concerned about or the indication of a job well done, particularly in light of what the holiday signifies (33:46).
The Saudi-backed LIV Golf tees off, and the PGA Tour quickly suspends 17 players (NPR)
Saudi-backed golf tour lures PGA pros, but backlash lands them in the rough (CBC)
LIV Golf shines spotlight on 'sportswashing' – the nascent term for an age-old strategy (USA Today)
Everybody Loses in the PGA-LIV Golf Schism (The Ringer)
T-shirts? Ice cream? Retailers cash in on Juneteenth. There’s backlash (LA Times)
Juneteenth was finally recognized as a federal holiday. Then came commercialization. (NBC News)
Juneteenth isn’t just a celebration of freedom. It’s a monument to America’s failures. (Vox)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana briefly react to the initial hearings from the House select committee investigating the January 6, 2021 US Capitol attack and discuss what the way the hearings are being covered reveal about our overall news environment (01:26). The guys also look back at the government loan that helped Telsa become the power that it is today and consider whether government is still doing its part in promoting economic and technological growth (39:33).
Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol (House.gov)
Takeaways from the prime-time January 6 committee hearing (CNN)
Fox News didn’t just ignore the Jan. 6 hearing. It did something worse. (WaPo)
Opinion | Time to Pull the Plug on Cable News (Politico)
Tesla files for 3-for-1 stock split (CNBC)
How Tesla shows Obama’s green loan program was a success (Grist)
Top 10 U.S. Government Investments in 20th Century American Competitiveness (Center for American Progress)
Seeing the recent efforts of Andy Stanley, a prominent evangelical pastor from Georgia, to get the church out of politics, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider how this mirrors the efforts of the founding fathers to keep religion separate from politics and governance and why this concept can resonate from both a political and religious perspective (01:19). The guys also raise the alarm about the looming dead pool in Lake Mead which could result in parts of the U.S. losing access to sources of water and electricity (30:43).
The evangelical church faces a 'state of emergency' over the pandemic and politics, Andy Stanley says (CNN)
Drought-stricken US warned of looming 'dead pool' (BBC)
California threatens ‘mandatory water restrictions’ if people don’t cut back (The Guardian)
Seeing the recent run of mass shootings in the United States as unacceptable, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how the public at large appears to be being targeted and how our society has gotten to the point where it is seemingly unable to do anything to address the problem (01:08). The guys also react to some recent findings on how sweat works and is beneficial for our bodies (41:31).
Two shootings, 10 days apart: Texas school massacre comes on heels of racist killings in Buffalo (USAToday)
Warriors' Steve Kerr delivers emotional, passionate plea in wake of Texas elementary school shooting (CBS Sports)
Lobbying by gun rights groups hit a spending record in 2021. They outspent gun control by more than 5x (Forbes)
The GOP lawmakers who get the most cash from gun rights groups (Axios)
Everything you need to know about the assault weapons ban, in one post (WaPo)
Shape Magazine: Sweat Is Good for You. The Latest Science Explains Why (Apple News)
As explained in its subtitle, Jonathan Haidt’s 2012 book “The Righteous Mind” considers “Why Good People are Divided by Politics and Religion,” and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at some of the key concepts presented in the book and discuss how they see some of them play out in our modern society. NOTE: This podcast contains spoilers.
The Righteous Mind (Penguin Random House)
With the Supreme Court reportedly poised to overturn Roe v. Wade, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how the decades long effort which brought us here and consider what types of circumstances justify, and do not justify, the government dictating personal healthcare decisions (01:40). The guys also take a look at recent research which establishes that modern humans were around much earlier than previously believed (34:35).
Supreme Court has voted to overturn abortion rights, draft opinion shows (Politico)
How the Supreme Court went from cementing abortion rights in Roe v. Wade to drafting their demise (CNBC)
Where Americans Stand On Abortion, In 5 Charts (538)
What Is Jacobson v. Massachusetts? How Supreme Court Ruled on Vaccine Mandate in 1905 (Newsweek)
Oldest remains of modern humans are much older than thought, researchers say (USA Today)
There used to be nine species of human. What happened to them? (National Post)
What if other human species hadn't died out (BBC)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider why the affinity many Americans profess for things like democracy and market economies often appears to be very conditional on the outcome being produced(01:34). The guys also discuss the idea of toxic productivity and how the feeling that one needs to be accessible and productive may be harmful for our health (36:31).
Do Americans Still Care About Democracy? (Bloomberg)
Bellyaching and howls vs. NIL can't stop American commerce — and don't expect Congress to stop it (Yahoo! Sports)
What are the most important American values? (USAHello)
The Dangerous Trap of Toxic Productivity—and How to Break the Cycle (Real Simple) (Apple News Link)
Seeing Senator Bernie Sanders’ push to get the U.S. government to end its contracts with Amazon over the company’s labor practices, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the boundaries of the legitimate use of government power and whether labor and unions still have a place in society (01:34). The guys also compare Sanders’ push to Florida governor Ron Desantis’ recent move to punish Disney for speaking against a recent Florida law (25:02) and discuss the importance of action in bringing about positive change in one’s life (41:38).
Sanders calls on Biden to cut Amazon out of U.S. federal contracts (Reuters)
Amazon workers in New York City vote to unionize, a first for the company (PBS)
Amazon workers reject union bid at second Staten Island warehouse (The Guardian)
How Amazon keeps a close eye on employee activism to head off unions (CNBC)
How Amazon Crushes Unions (NY Times)
Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (Wikipedia)
GOP Governor Hutchinson Blasts DeSantis Over Disney Fight in Florida (Newsweek)
Here’s How Disney Could Block—Or Benefit From—Republicans Killing Its Special District (Forbes)
Show Up. Mood Follows Action (Pocket)
“Prohibition”, the 2011 documentary miniseries, gives a pretty extensive look at America’s experiment with the prohibition of alcohol, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what stood out most in this Ken Burns and Lynn Novick documentary as well as the lessons we can and should take away from America’s failed prohibition experiment.
Prohibition: A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick (PBS)
Prohibition: A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick (Amazon Prime Video)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how several recent of laws and regulations enacted by Florida’s state government reveal an unmistakable trend of seizing power from local authorities and requiring that everyone follow decrees coming from the state capitol (01:11). The guys also react to recent research which offers new insight into how the lifespan of mammals, including human beings, tends to work (36:07).
Florida rejects 41% of new math textbooks, citing critical race theory among its reasons (CNN)
DeSantis signs bill requiring Florida students, professors to register political views with state (Salon)
Florida’s law limiting LGBTQ discussion in schools, explained (WaPo)
Fla. governor signs bill requiring moment for school prayer (AP)
Florida lawmakers stopped cities from banning natural gas. Climate change plans suffered (Miami Herald)
Culture war is smart politics for DeSantis and Republicans (Yahoo News)
Mystery of why humans die around 80 may finally be solved (Yahoo News)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to a piece from Nobel laureate journalist and author Maria Ressa that breaks down how today’s media environment is in many ways biased against facts and explains how this can affect us all and threaten our societies (01:27). The guys also discuss several unhealthy habits that many people have and how we can try to overcome the tendencies which lead us to them (36:33).
We’re All Being Manipulated the Same Way (The Atlantic)
Prevention Magazine - 7 Unhelpful Habits Everyone Should Quit (Apple News)
Seeing both the recent jump in gas prices and also the inflation on lots of items that has been building for some time, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the economic conditions that are leading to these things and whether there is any end in sight (01:35). The guys also discuss what has been termed as the “collapse “ in U.S. population growth and why could be cause for concern (35:37).
A key inflation gauge sets 40-year high as gas and food soar (AP)
Opinion: Gas prices are way up, but real cost of driving a mile was higher for most of the past century (MarketWatch)
Unemployment hits pandemic low in March, but uncertainty looms ahead (WaPo)
Here’s where the jobs are — in one chart (CNBC)
Why U.S. Population Growth Is Collapsing (The Atlantic)
The metaverse is coming, and it appears it could transform our real and virtual lives, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at what is starting to happen in nascent platforms and consider what makes the metaverse both an exciting and risking commercial opportunity (01:24). The guys also discuss recent reports that microplastics have been found circulating in human body (31:31).
Making money in the metaverse: Early adopters seek real-life fortunes in virtual world (CBS News)
Why Wall Street thinks the metaverse will be worth trillions (Forbes) (Apple News)
How To Buy Land & Real Estate In The Metaverse (Forbes)
How the metaverse will transform health (Vitamin Z)
A Japanese company wants you to feel real pain in the metaverse (InterestingEngineering.com)
Microplastics have been found in air, water, food and now ... human blood (Yahoo!)
How to Eat Less Plastic (Consumer Reports)
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization was put in place over 70 years ago in response to the threat posed by the Soviet Union, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at how the alliance has responded to Russia’s recent aggression in Ukraine and how this aggression has illustrated its continued importance (01:29). The guys also react to recent research into so called “elite sleepers” and discuss how this trait can be both helpful and harmful in navigating life’s many challenges (40:16).
How the West Marshaled a Stunning Show of Unity Against Russia (NY Times)
‘Every inch of NATO’: Blinken seeks to deter any Russia thought of pushing beyond Ukraine (WaPo)
What Is NATO’s Article 5? (History.com)
Only NATO Can Save Putin (The Atlantic)
Video - Secretary Blinken Says Russian President Putin "Surprised" by NATO Solidarity on Ukraine (CSPAN)
What 'elite sleepers' can tell us all about the eight hour myth (Yahoo)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the extent to which Americans of all political persuasions have drawn to more pessimistic political messaging and discuss how this affects our ability to deal with societal challenges (01:26). The guys also take a look at President Biden’s recent executive order on cryptocurrency and consider whether crypto may be going mainstream (28:13).
Politics of pessimism: Why neither party is selling the American dream (Christian Science Monitor)
Biden just put out an executive order on cryptocurrencies — here’s everything that’s in it (CNBC)
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine involves not just kinetic action but also efforts to influence people’s perceptions of what is happening and why, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at how powerful media persuasion and propaganda can be and discuss how the American system is designed to limit this (01:44). The guys also weigh in on the never-ending debate about breakfast over whether it is the most important meal of the day or completely unnecessary (46:28).
Ukraine war: 'My city's being shelled, but mum won’t believe me' (BBC)
Last Vestiges of Russia’s Free Press Fall Under Kremlin Pressure (NY Times)
Is Breakfast Really That Important for All-Day Energy? Here’s What the Science Says — EatingWell (Apple News)
Johnson & Johnson, and several other companies, recently agreed to pay billions to settle claims over their role in fueling the opioid crisis, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider what the settlements say about the ongoing crisis and what other factors still need to be addressed to help address the many factors that brought us here (01:24). The guys also discuss recent studies which suggest that people of all ages and from various places are having less sex (40:51).
4 U.S. companies will pay $26 billion to settle claims they fueled the opioid crisis (NPR)
OxyContin victims fight for their share in Purdue bankruptcy case (The Guardian)
The opioid epidemic isn’t unsolvable (Vox)
The True Cause of the Opioid Epidemic (The Atlantic)
What is the U.S. Opioid Epidemic? (HHS.gov)
People Have Been Having Less Sex—whether They’re Teenagers or 40-Somethings (Scientific American)
The crisis in Ukraine has appeared to be on the brink of boiling over for a while, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the nature of the dispute and how it fits in to the larger geopolitical picture (1:25). The guys also take a look at some of the exploits of and challenges face by the Tuskegee Airmen and consider what their story says about America’s untapped potential (45:56).
What does Putin want in Ukraine? The conflict explained (CNN)
Putin’s Endgame: Unravel the Post-Cold War Agreements That Humiliated Russia (Wall Street Journal)
Zelensky rips the West for inaction as shelling makes Russia-Ukraine war seem increasingly imminent (WaPo)
Russian disinformation kicks into high gear as Ukraine crisis drags on (LA Times)
Letters to the Editor: If you think NATO is the real threat, you're falling for Russian propaganda (LA Times)
Tuskegee Airmen (Wikipedia)
The Tuskegee Airmen (Military.com)
The Tuskegee Airmen Won the First Air Force 'Top Gun' Aerial Gunnery Competition (Military.com)
The 1619 Project looks at the history of the United States from perspectives that have often been missing, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how this approach can help Americans better understand (1:13) and deal with the complexities of our modern society and why the backlash is both predictable and unfounded (25:01).
The 1619 Project (NY Times)
Listen to ‘1619,’ a Podcast From The New York Times (NY Times)
The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story (1619books.com)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how Biden’s Supreme Court nominee pledge and Brian Flores’ lawsuit against the NFL illustrate in different ways on the struggle that America’s largest institutions, and really American society in general, continue to have in dealing with racial discrepancies in access, opportunity and outcomes (01:12). The guys also take a look at the science behind why it is harder for people to build muscle as they age (43:35).
Here's the story behind Black History Month — and why it's celebrated in February (WOSU - NPR)
Biden Expected to Nominate a Black Woman to the Supreme Court (NY Times)
A Black woman Supreme Court nominee could push corporate America into a new age of diversity (Insider)
Why are US rightwingers so opposed to a Black woman supreme court nominee? (The Guardian)
Brian Flores’s Lawsuit Has Brought the NFL’s Black Coaching Crisis to Its Boiling Point (The Ringer)
Brian Flores will use NFL’s past words, practices against it (NBC Sports)
50-year-old muscles just can’t grow big like they used to – the biology of how muscles change with age (The Conversation)
With 2021 going down as the best year in decades as far as GDP growth in the U.S., James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the extent to which such a performance is surprising and the extent to which we should fear what comes next (01:19). The guys also discuss some of the interesting things coming from NASA about the exoplanets that have recently been discovered and are being studied (45:06).
Believe it or not, the economy grew last year at the fastest pace since 1984 (NPR)
U.S. Economy Grows as Fourth-Quarter GDP Shows Strongest Year in Decades (WSJ) (Apple Link)
NASA Has Found Over 5,000 Potential Alien Worlds—Here Are Some of the Weirdest (Newsweek)
The Past, Present, and Future of Faraway Worlds (The Ringer)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the origin of conservative philosophical tradition and its value in managing large societies, diving into a recent piece by the conservative political and cultural commentator David Brooks which questions whether the modern Republican party has abandoned conservatism (01:11). The guys also take a look a recent report that Elon Musk’s Neuralink venture is about to start testing the use of implanted microchips in people’s brains (40:00).
What Happened To American Conservatism? (The Atlantic)
Elon Musk’s Neuralink prepares to test microchips in human brains (The Times - UK) (Apple Link)
Even in a global pandemic, fighting misinformation in an open society will always be an uphill battle, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the effort by hundreds of doctors, professors, scientists and health care to pressure Spotify into addressing covid-19 misinformation in The Joe Rogan Experience, its hugely popular podcast, and on its platform in general (01:40). The guys also take a look at how it may be possible to can take control over and harness stress to one’s benefit (38:23).
‘A Menace to Public Health’: Doctors Demand Spotify Puts an End to Covid Lies on ‘Joe Rogan Experience’ (Rolling Stone)
Joe Rogan admits broadcaster Josh Zepps made him ‘look dumb’ during vaccine debate (The Independent)
270 health experts to Spotify: Joe Rogan’s Covid misinformation is ‘a sociological issue of devastating proportions’ (CNBC)
Governments try shame to boost vaccine use. Does it work? (Christian Science Monitor)
How to Turn Off Harmful Stress Like a Switch (Pocket)
Reports of overly aggressive or abusive behavior in response to relatively minor slights appear to be increasing, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the extent to which the Covid-19 pandemic, along with other societal factors, have contributed to this (01:14). The guys also discuss research which suggests that money can buy happiness, if it is spent correctly in the right circumstances (31:19).
The pandemic has caused nearly two years of collective trauma. Many people are near a breaking point. (WaPo)
Want to be happier? Science says buying a little time leads to significantly greater life satisfaction (Fast Company)
The January 6th Insurrection at the U.S. Capitol was not just a historic incident but also the culmination of several trends in politics and media, so now with a year’s worth of perspective, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss some of the key factors that set the stage for the incident and consider whether enough has been done to identify (01:22) and reverse the trends that led some Americans to try to attack and overthrow their government of the people (38:21).
Four Hours at the Capitol (HBO)
The January 6 committee formed 6 months ago. Here's what it's uncovered. (CNN)
Congressman Eric Swalwell Outs 'Radicalized' Man Who Allegedly Threatened Him and His Family (Newsweek)
Trump’s Next Coup Has Already Begun (The Atlantic)
Millions of Angry, Armed Americans Stand Ready to Seize Power If Trump Loses in 2024 (Newsweek)
The idea that a government would rank its citizens based on their moral conduct is probably jarring to most Americans, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how China’s social credit system appears to be a very foreign concept in some ways while also being very familiar in others (01:36). The guys also consider the concern that has been raised that the scientific breakthroughs which may allow cancer to be diagnosed extremely early could possibly be too much to handle for our psyches (35:16).
China's 'social credit' system ranks citizens and punishes them with throttled internet speeds and flight bans if the Communist Party deems them untrustworthy (Business Insider)
China’s Social Credit System: Speculation vs. Reality (The Diplomat)
Social Credit System (Wikipedia)
Will We All Soon Live in Cancerland? (WSJ)
Science Surgery: ‘Do we all have potentially cancerous cells in our bodies?’ (Cancer Research UK)
The belief that the Earth is flat persists in the 21st century, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at Behind the Curve, the 2018 documentary by Daniel J. Clark on Netflix and discuss what stands out about those who believe it, how the scientific community has responded, and the way certain aspects our humanity are illustrated through the topic in another installment of their Streaming Between the Lines series.
Behind the Curve (Netflix)
Seeing reports from public health officials about the declining physical and mental health of children, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider how society may be failing he younger generations and what type of approach can turn things around (01:13). The guys also discuss why Americans in general appear to worry more about money than people from other places (29:55).
Surgeon general warns of emerging youth mental health crisis in rare public advisory (LA Times)
CDC says childhood obesity is a serious problem in the United States (MSN)
What You’re Really Worried About When You’re Worried About Money (The Atlantic)
Another named variant of the 2019 coronavirus has emerged, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the emerging Omicron variant, society’s initial reaction to the news of its emergence, and how our mindset in terms of dealing with COVID-19 must continue to evolve over time as circumstances change (01:25). The guys also consider the significance of falling birth rates for humans around the world and also how societal factors influence, and will be influenced by, people having less babies (30:21).
New evidence shows omicron likely spreads twice as fast as delta in South Africa (NPR)
Study: Omicron could be more transmissible due to sharing genetic material with common cold (The Hill)
Which COVID-19 variants are most common in the US? (USA Facts)
First data on Covid omicron variant’s severity is ‘encouraging,’ Fauci says (CNBC)
Why birth rates are falling, and why it’s no big deal (Popular Science)
Why a decline in US birth rates could actually help our economy (Popular Science)
Americans are quitting their jobs in unprecedented numbers, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at how this “Great Resignation” has been spurred by many different technological, cultural, and economic trends, several of which have operated to expand what is possible as far as earning a living (01:09). The guys also discuss how the constant stream of notifications that many receive on the electronic devices may have a greater impact on us than it seems (38:50).
The ‘Great Resignation’ is more of a ‘Great Reckoning,’ led by low-wage and minority workers (CNBC)
A record number of Americans quit their jobs in September (CNN)
The ‘Great Resignation’: Why workers are quitting (Local NBC - KOBI-TV 5)
The ‘Great Resignation’ is altering the workforce dynamic — maybe for good (CNBC)
Part of the ‘great resignation’ is actually just mothers forced to leave their jobs (The Guardian)
These entrepreneurs used the ‘Great Resignation’ to reinvent themselves. Here’s how they did it (CNBC)
Ping. Ding. Chirp. Notifications Are Driving Us Crazy. (WSJ) (Apple Link)
Marshall, the 2017 biopic on Thurgood Marshall, tells us about a time in Marshall’s life before the Supreme Court and Brown v. Board of Education, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what stood out most in this Reginald Hudlin film as well as Thurgood Marshall’s legacy and how he fits into the story of America.
Marshall (Netflix)
Keeping the Earth habitable for humans would seemingly be in everyone’s interest, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider how multi-faceted our environmental issues can be and how COP26 and the Glasgow Climate Pact each show far we have come, and how far we still have to go, from a global cooperation standpoint (01:30). The guys also discuss how human bodies are constantly emitting odors and how these odors actually tell a lot about you and your health and lifestyle, not just your hygiene (38:51).
What is a COP? (COP26 Website)
COP26: What was agreed at the Glasgow climate conference? (BBC)
In surprise move, U.S. and China vow to work together on climate change (NBC News)
American bumblebees have disappeared from these 8 states. Now they could face extinction. (USA Today)
Here's What Will Happen If Bees Go Extinct (Green Matters)
Judge approves $626 million settlement in Flint water crisis case (CBS News)
US intelligence community warns of devastating long-term impact of coronavirus pandemic (CNN)
What Your Smell Says About You (WSJ) (Apple link)
Even with Zillow’s decision to get out of real estate buying and selling, the “ibuyer” trend still seems to be just getting started, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the possibilities brought by the entrance of technology companies, and algorithms, into the real estate market (01:23). The guys also consider the concept of toxic positivity and how being around it can make it harder to deal with adversity (33:27).
Zillow just gave up on ibuying. What’s the deal with the algorithmic home sales? (LA Times)
Inside the collapse of Zillow: hundreds of homes to hit Orlando market (WFTV)
What the rest of us can learn from Zillow’s real estate stumbles (Fortune)
Zillow’s flip-flop shows limits for Big Data in property (Financial Times)
Toxic Positivity Is Very Real, and Very Annoying (WSJ)
After seeing the existence of violent threats against school board members turned into a media event, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the need to protect public servants, freedom of speech, and how content that drives media consumption now determines our political discussions (01:47). The guys also discuss reports of the first autonomous killer drone being deployed in combat and how this could change everything (40:11).
Our dumbed-down debate over the Justice Department and schools (WaPo)
Garland defends memo on violent threats to school boards (CBS News)
Ted Cruz Asks Merrick Garland If 'Nazi Salutes' Are a Form of Protected Free Speech (Newsweek)
What Does Free Speech Mean? (uscourts.gov)
One Woman’s Mission to Rewrite Nazi History on Wikipedia (Wired)
Philadelphia nativist riots (Wikipedia)
Autonomous Drones Have Attacked Humans. This Is a Turning Point (Popular Mechanics)
Eckhart Tolle’s “The Power of Now” is said to be the bestselling spiritual book of the past 20 years and has been read by millions, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look a some of the key concepts that were addressed in the book (01:14) and consider the extent to which the teachings in the book could help humans on a societal level (36:38).
The Power of Now (Publisher - New World Library)
Excerpt of The Power of Now (Eckhart Tolle)
With supply chain and inflation issues taking hold in the economy, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the how these issues reveal the incredible level of efficiency that the economy had previously operated with as well as what it will take to get things back on track (01:06). The guys also discuss the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s effort to try to cajole food companies and restaurants to all reduce sodium content in the foods (34:52).
There Is No Shortage of Reasons for the Broken Supply Chain (Bloomberg)
What you need to know about the supply chain bottlenecks (The Hill)
U.S. supply chain too snarled for Biden Christmas fix, experts say (Reuters)
Start your holiday shopping now. Here are some goods that may be running out of stock (CNBC)
Conservatives take to social media to blame Biden for the supply chain crisis with #BareShelvesBiden, while others hit back with images of fully stocked stores (Business Insider)
Top White House official retweets post calling inflation, supply chain issues ‘high class problems’ (FoxNews)
Pizza pockets and late-night fries: How the government is urging food companies and restaurants to reduce our salt consumption (WaPo)
The reaction to Dave Chappelle’s “The Closer” has included a lot of debate about what is scientific fact, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider whether this debate mirrors other disagreements over matters of science and if truth is being sought or if want to yell at each other (01:31). The guys also discuss China’s reported efforts to force greater cultural assimilation of ethnic minorities in order to build a national collective consciousness (25:02).
‘I’m team Terf’: Dave Chappelle under fire over pro-JK Rowling trans stance (The Guardian)
China’s Communist Party Formally Embraces Assimilationist Approach to Ethnic Minorities (WSJ) (Apple Link)
Seeing all the handwringing over the debt ceiling and the so called “meteor headed to crash into our economy,” James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider whether politics surrounding the debt ceiling illustrate dysfunction or gamesmanship, and the extent to which this is just the new normal (01:17). The guys also discuss some findings on how living with high levels of uncertainty is difficult for us as humans (37:10).
Biden warns ‘meteor headed to crash’ into US economy amid debt struggle (The Guardian)
As Senator, Joe Biden Opposed GOP Debt Ceiling Votes and Mitch McConnell Hasn't Forgotten (Newsweek)
Schumer forces debt limit vote to squeeze Republican resistance (Politico)
Democrats Are Holding America Hostage, and Trying to Blame the GOP (Daily Beast)
Our Brains Were Not Built for This Much Uncertainty (Harvard Business Review)
With Arizona’s partisan election review reportedly confirming what all the prior reviews said about the outcome of the 2020 election and appearing to be an (expensive) exercise in futility, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the extent to which the results of the 2020 election are being challenged to create a pretext to raise money and enrich friends (01:16). The guys also take a look at some recent research on whether the way we approach free time in our society actually reduces our happiness (39:39).
'Truth is truth': Trump dealt blow as Republican-led Arizona audit reaffirms Biden win (Reuters)
‘Big Lie’ Election Audits Go On After Arizona: Here’s What’s Happening In Wisconsin, Pennsylvania—And Now Texas (Forbes)
Final report from partisan Arizona review confirms Biden defeated Trump in Maricopa County last November (CNN)
‘Stop the Steal’ Movement Races Forward, Ignoring Arizona Humiliation (NY Times)
The Russian "Firehose of Falsehood" Propaganda Model (RAND Corporation)
The way we view free time is making us less happy (BBC)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at some of the revelations in the “Facebook files” series being published by the Wall Street Journal consider how our humanity in impacted by social media in ways that have serious effects on society (01:41). The guys also react to recent research on changes in the average heights of various societies (40:54).
The Facebook Files (WSJ)
Leaks just exposed how toxic Facebook and Instagram are to teen girls and, well, everyone (The Guardian)
From Instagram’s Toll on Teens to Unmoderated ‘Elite’ Users, Here’s a Break Down of the Wall Street Journal’s Facebook Revelations (Time)
Wall Street Journal's Facebook Files series prompts comparisons to Big Tobacco (CNN)
Facebook says WSJ allegations are 'mischaracterizations,' confer 'false motives' (Reuters)
Why does world’s tallest populace seem to be getting shorter? (The Guardian)
Following the 20th anniversary of the September 11th attacks in the United States, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider how the trauma experienced that day has affected Americans and American society and discuss the effectiveness of the nation’s response to the attack (01:21). The guys also take a look at some recent research on why modern humans by and large have so many problems with their teeth (35:01).
'A heavy price': Two decades of war, wariness and the post-9/11 security state (NBC News)
America Played Into Al-Qaeda’s Hands (The Atlantic)
Why We Have So Many Problems with Our Teeth (Scientific American)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the recent change in college athletics that has allowed student athletes to make money off of the use of their name, image and likeness and question whether college athletics have evolved enough over time that some to necessitate how we treat what has become with some sports the business of college athletics (01:30). The guys also discuss how humans can learn to use echolocation for spatial awareness and the extent to which this, and any other supposed “sixth senses,” may be something we can learn to access and utilize (33:19).
Everything you need to know about the NCAA's NIL debate (ESPN)
The NCAA Dropped The Ball On NIL (Forbes)
The NCAA and the impact of NIL compensation, explained (Denver Post)
Business of Football: The Supreme Court Sends a Message to the NCAA (Sports Illustrated)
Social media stardom: How changes to NIL will benefit athlete-influencers across the NCAA (ESPN)
How NCAA athletes with little fame will benefit from NIL rights (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
Humans Can Develop a Sixth Sense, Study Proves (Popular Mechanics)
The federal eviction moratorium was in place for almost a year and now has been struck down, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the circumstances that led to its demise and what we have and don’t have to try to mitigate the ongoing economic effects from the Covid-19 pandemic that led to the moratorium in the first place (01:21). The guys also take a look at the dispute between Spencer Elden, whose naked photographed appeared on the cover of Nirvana’s 1991 album, Nevermind, and the stakeholders who created and used the photo 30 years ago (37:40).
Why the overturned eviction moratorium may be too little, too late for both renters, landlords (Yahoo Finance)
Here's what renters can expect after the end of the federal eviction ban (CNN)
Biden's COVID-19 eviction freeze is back at the Supreme Court. Here's how it got there. (USA Today)
Eviction moratoriums aren't enough to rescue millions of Americans behind on rent (CNN)
As national eviction ban expires, a look at who rents and who owns in the U.S. (Pew Research Center)
Emergency Rental Assistance Program (U.S. Treasury)
Baby on Nevermind cover sues Nirvana over child sexual exploitation (Guardian)
The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan has clearly not gone as smoothly one would like, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana try to make sense of what has happened and also discuss the media’s role in the over-the-top reactions coming from the public (01:27). The guys also take a look at a recent report about a Spanish engineer who devised a machine that produces drinking water out of thin air (37:42).
The Withdrawal From Afghanistan Was Destined for Disaster (NY Mag)
Afghan conflict: US and Taliban sign deal to end 18-year war (BBC)
Russia takes over base left by U.S. forces near Syria's Raqqa: TASS (Reuters)
How Iran Has Kept Its Aging American-Made F-14 Tomcats Flying (The National Interest)
You Literally Can't Believe The Facts Tucker Carlson Tells You. So Say Fox's Lawyers (NPR)
Judge: Dominion suits against Trump allies can proceed (The Hill)
Spanish engineers extract drinking water from thin air (Reuters)
Water Facts - Worldwide Water Supply (US Bureau of Reclamation)
The Water From Your Tap Is an Engineering Marvel Millennia in the Making (Popular Mechanics) (Apple Link)
Rivers of Doubt - The North Georgia Water Crisis (The Bitter Southerner)
Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” may be a military treatise that dates back to the 5th century BC, but it remains popular to this day because many of the concepts it teaches are timeless and extend beyond waging war. James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what stood out to them in the material (02:03) and how the concepts in the text can be applied to other aspects of life (38:58).
The Art of War (MIT)
The Art of War (Wikisource)
How to Use Military Strategy to Build Better Habits (James Clear)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how nostalgia and the tendency to think about the past in an idealized way may, from a societal standpoint affect our ability to deal with our new issues and circumstances (01:23). The guys also consider whether even those of us who care about global warming are failing to appreciate the urgency of the threat (29:56).
The Myth of the Golden Years (The Atlantic)
Climate change: IPCC report is 'code red for humanity' (BBC)
Dixie Fire, still raging, is now California's second-largest wildfire ever (Reuters)
Utah’s Great Salt Lake has been shrinking for years. Now it faces a drought (The Guardian)
It is apparent that many employers intend to require, or at minimum try to induce, their employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider whether this approach represents an overreach and also try to make sense of the lingering vaccine hesitancy we still see in society (01:21). The guys also discuss how Simone Biles’ recent struggles illustrate the how intertwined the psychological aspects and physical aspects of performance really are (33:23).
Google And Facebook Mandate Vaccines For Employees At U.S. Offices (NPR)
From offices to restaurants, companies are requiring proof of vaccination (CNN)
The NFL Is Setting the Standard for COVID Vaccine Crackdowns (Vanity Fair)
Ryan Tannehill: I wouldn’t have gotten vaccinated if not for NFL’s protocols (ProFootballTalk)
Corporate America to workers: Get vaccinated or get out (CNN)
Vaccine hesitancy is nothing new. Here’s the damage it’s done over centuries (Science News)
Jacobson v. Massachusetts (Wikipedia)
Simone Biles withdraws from individual all-around gymnastics competition at Tokyo Olympics to focus on mental well-being (ESPN)
Simone Biles said she got the ‘twisties.’ Gymnasts immediately understood. (WaPo)
Simone Biles plans to compete in Olympics balance beam final (NBC News)
After seeing billionaires Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos literally shoot for the stars recently, as well as some of the criticism of their efforts, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana weigh in on the consequences of space travel becoming a private enterprise and the veracity of some of the criticisms of these efforts (01:31). The guys also discuss takeaways from Shape Magazine’s recent discussions on the latest on optimal approaches to exercise (37:20).
Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson went to space. What's next? (CNN)
Elizabeth Warren took aim at Jeff Bezos, saying 'the richest guy on Earth can launch himself into space while over half the country lives paycheck to paycheck' (MSN)
The Commercial Space Age Is Here (Harvard Business Review)
How Will Private Space Travel Transform NASA's Next 60 Years? (Space.com)
The Pros And Cons Of Privatizing Space Exploration (Forbes)
Senate Approves Bill Championed by Senator Hutchison to Preserve America’s Human Spaceflight Capabilities (U.S. Senate)
Shape Magazine Website (Apple Link to 2021 Science of Strong Article)
Lifting Weights? Your Fat Cells Would Like to Have a Word. (NY Times)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss wokeness in our society, taking a look at its traditional social justice framing as well as the way it has been made a part of the so called “culture wars” (01:29). The guys also marvel at the scale of the world’s caffeine additions and consider the implications of this (35:58).
Where ‘woke’ came from and why marketers should think twice before jumping on the social activism bandwagon (The Conversation)
Why Attacking ‘Cancel Culture’ And ‘Woke’ People Is Becoming The GOP’s New Political Strategy (538)
Woke activists hurt cause with ‘self-righteous toxicity’: left-wing think tank (NY Post)
The invisible addiction: is it time to give up caffeine? (The Guardian)
With the U.S.’s 20-year war in Afghanistan coming to an end this summer, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the move to withdrawal the remaining troops and the legacy of the conflict (01:37). The guys also take a look at recent research that in some circumstances, the color lost in gray hair can be regenerated by simply reducing stress (32:56).
Biden announces U.S. military mission in Afghanistan will end August 31 (CBS News)
Afghanistan war cost more than $2T and 240,000 lives, report finds (Military Times)
From Afghanistan, disgraceful echoes of Vietnam (Star Tribune)
Yes, we can reverse gray hair. No, we don't know why it works. Just chill. (Mashable)
Seeing the effects of climate change appearing to continue to pick up steam, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss extent to which what we are seeing is the off the charts as well as things that may be driving our societies inability to truly address to the problem (01:47). The guys also react to recent reports that scientists have cloned an endangered ferret from the genetic material of a ferret that died over 30 years ago (46:19).
Pacific Northwest heat wave reaches astonishing peak on Monday (Axios)
Here's how the heat is impacting residents of the Pacific Northwest (CNN)
How climate change 'loads the dice' for heat waves (NBC News)
A Former Trump Adviser May Have Revealed What The Fossil Fuel Bonanza Was Really About (HuffPost)
Proud Boys and petro-masculinity (Heated World)
Men Resist Green Behavior as Unmanly (Scientific American)
Defense Secretary Calls Climate Change an Existential Threat (Defense.gov)
Ford's Electric Mustang Mach-E SUV Outsold the Gas Mustang Last Month (MotorTrend)
Scientists Have Cloned an Endangered Species. Will They Be Able to Bring Back Extinct Animals? (Popular Mechanics)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what Critical Race Theory is and how it has gone from exclusively being an academic and scholarly matter to a dominant topic in our political and media environments (01:16). The guys also take a look at recent findings on how to combat attention fatigue with soft fascination (41:30).
What the hysteria over critical race theory is really all about (Vox)
Anti-Sharia law bills in the United States (Southern Poverty Law Center)
Stephen Bannon thinks GOP could gain 50 House seats if they focus on critical race theory (Yahoo)
Critical race theory battle invades school boards — with help from conservative groups (NBC News)
How ‘Soft Fascination’ Helps Restore Your Tired Brain (Elemental)
Following years of advocacy, Juneteenth has been made a federal holiday in the U.S. and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the way the holiday fits into the U.S. narrative and consider how, after years of this being a disputed matter, an overwhelming consensus supporting the issue was formed in Congress (01:18). The guys raise the alarm about recent findings on how antidepressants being found in our waterways may be affecting how animals are behaving (21:22).
One Woman's Decades-Long Fight To Make Juneteenth A U.S. Holiday (NPR)
For Black People In Corporate America, Juneteenth Is About More Than A Day Off (Forbes)
Antidepressants in waterways may make crayfish bolder, increasing risk of predation (National Geographic)
Following ProPublica’s bombshell report on the massive levels of tax avoidance that America’s highest earners are engaging in, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take opposite sides on whether the existence of this level of tax avoidance means that our tax system is broken and unfair (01:28). The guys also look at some recent research on whether the universe may be conscious as we understand it (42:51).
The Secret IRS Files: Trove of Never-Before-Seen Records Reveal How the Wealthiest Avoid Income Tax (ProPublica)
‘These revelations make me sick’ — Cramer suggests a billionaire surtax after ProPublica bombshell (CNBC)
Some Scientists Believe the Universe Is Conscious (Popular Mechanics)
With interest in and coverage of the Tulsa Race Massacre peaking right in time for its 100th anniversary, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what stands out about the incident, the types of factors that something like it to happen, and the why it received such little attention for so long (01:22). The guys also look at both parallels and points of distinction in our contemporary social climate (36:11).
Tulsa Race Massacre - The Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture (Oklahoma Historical Society)
(PDF) Tulsa Race Riot - A Report by the Oklahoma Com mission to Study the Tulsa Race Riot of 1921 (Oklahoma Historical Society)
Why it took 100 years for America to learn about the Tulsa massacre (Vox)
Tom Hanks: You Should Learn the Truth About the Tulsa Race Massacre (NY Times)
3 Documentaries You Should Watch About The Tulsa Race Massacre (NPR)
Whitewashed: The racial cleansing of Forsyth County (11alive)
Republican leaders say they want to focus on the future, but Trump is far from done with the past (WaPo)
Seeing both market and legal pressures pushing society away from endless fossil fuel consumption, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the recent announcement of the all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning, the placement of climate friendly members on Exxon’s board of directors, and the court order requiring Shell to reduce emissions by almost half in less than a decade (01:14). The guys also take a look at some recent studies on the prevalence of polyamorous relationships (38:30).
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning electric pickup could change how America travels and works (Detroit Free Press)
Engine No. 1 wins at least 2 Exxon board seats as activist pushes for climate strategy change (CNBC)
Court orders Shell to slash CO2 emissions in landmark climate ruling (CNN)
Polyamory Is More Common Than You Think, One in Nine Americans Have Tried It (Newsweek)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the recent hot conflict between Israel and Hamas and discuss the more humanistic view some have taken of the incident and the limitations of attempts to classify various actors in the dispute as pure hero or pure villain (01:28). The guys also react to recent discussions about the need to incorporate insects into our diets in order to keep the planet habitable (42:41).
The Israel-Hamas ceasefire stopped the fighting — but changed nothing (Vox)
Bernie Sanders calls Hamas a 'terrorist group' but says Israeli government has 'overt racists' (FoxNews)
Palestinians Echo Black Lives Matter as U.S. Activists Repay George Floyd Solidarity (Newsweek)
A brief history of the Israel-Palestinian conflict (Independent)
If we want to save the planet, the future of food is insects (The Guardian)
A no-beef diet is great — but only if you don’t replace it with chicken (Vox)
Following the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s sudden and substantial change in its mask wearing guidance for fully vaccinated people, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider what the actual change may mean to different parts of society (01:28). The guys also take a look at some recent findings on how sharks are able to precisely determine geolocation (42:41).
U.S. administers 273.5 mln doses of COVID-19 vaccines - CDC (Reuters)
The CDC’s New Mask Rules Just Follow the Science (Bloomberg)
Surprising reversal of COVID mask guidance based on science, CDC says. Here’s the data (Miami Herald)
CDC director says mask turnaround based solely on science (AP)
Millions Are Saying No to the Vaccines. What Are They Thinking? (The Atlantic)
As more Americans get vaccinated, 41% of Republicans still refuse COVID-19 shots (PBS)
Sharks use Earth's magnetic field as a GPS, scientists say (Yahoo)
Pushing her Republican colleagues to prioritize democratic principles over partisan agendas has made Liz Cheney’s position in her party increasingly tenuous, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at Liz Cheney’s stand and discuss the seriousness of the threat to our American experiment (02:18). The guys also consider whether some of the conveniences of technology are diminishing us as people (37:30).
LINKS (Pt. I)
Opinion: Liz Cheney: The GOP is at a turning point. History is watching us. (WaPo)
Larry Hogan: GOP turning into 'circular firing squad' over Trump loyalty (NBC News)
Liz Cheney Has Only Herself to Blame (The Atlantic)
LINKS (Pt. II)
How GPS Weakens Memory—and What We Can Do about It (Scientific American)
(01:35)
Since the 2020 election’s record voter turnout, there have been many efforts around the country to make it harder and more inconvenient to vote, so James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, Rick Ellsley take a look at both who is pushing these efforts and why they appear to be doing so .
The Truth About Georgia’s Voter Law (The Atlantic)
Florida Legislature passes elections bill that adds restrictions to voting (CNN)
Republicans Say They Care About Election Fraud. Here’s How They Could Actually Prevent It. (538)
G.O.P. Seeks to Empower Poll Watchers, Raising Intimidation Worries (NY Times)
(39:51)
The guys also discuss whether the recent confirmation of a UFO by the U.S. government is being underplayed.
Pentagon confirms UFO video is real, taken by Navy pilot (CNN)
(01:41)
The murder conviction of a former Minneapolis police officer is proof that holding police officers accountable for misconduct is possible in the U.S., so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider how society has changed over the last year and how it still needs to change moving forward.
Chauvin’s Conviction Is the Exception That Proves the Rule (The Atlantic)
Why A Guilty Verdict For Derek Chauvin Doesn’t Change The Reality Of Police Violence (538)
The Derek Chauvin guilty verdict is a huge outlier (Vox)
Opinion: After George Floyd's Death, A Press Release Obscured A Police Murder (NPR)
Here's what the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act would do (NBC News)
(42:03)
The guys also weigh in on some recent analysis into the kinds of factors which make our brains tend to embrace conspiracy theory thinking.
How You've Been Conditioned to Love Conspiracy Theories (Popular Mechanics)
(01:16) Reportedly over 100,000 migrants were encountered in a single month at the U.S. southern border, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the implications of this scale of activity from a historical, humanitarian, and political perspective.
9 questions about the humanitarian crisis on the border, answered (Vox)
The Situation at the U.S.-Mexico Border Can't Be 'Solved' Without Acknowledging Its Origins (Time)
Biden admin secures agreements with Mexico, Honduras and Guatemala to secure borders, official says (CNN)
There’s an Immigration Crisis, But It’s Not the One You Think (Politico)
(37:06) The guys also take a look at an essay and related research which lays out why the common the human brain as a computer analogy is misguided.
The empty brain (Aeon.co)
(01:23)
The Biden Administration’s infrastructure proposal is quite ambitious, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss both the timing of it and the approach being taken to improve the nation’s infrastructure and increase the nation’s potential.
Here's what's in Biden's infrastructure proposal (CNN)
With His Legacy In Mind, Biden Seeks U.S. Transformation With Infrastructure Plan (NPR)
Biden wants to go big on infrastructure. History says that’s the right call. (WaPo)
Biden to meet Monday with bipartisan lawmakers about infrastructure (The Hill)
(31:56)
The guys also take a look at the US National Intelligence Council’s recent Global Trends report and the types of challenges facing the world in the near future.
U.S. Intelligence Report Warns of Global Consequences of Social Fragmentation (NY Times)
The global future is looking dark and stormy (Axios)
Global Trends 2040 pdf (DNI.gov)
(01:13) Seeing the strikingly fast development and roll out of the COVID-19 vaccines, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the new mRNA technology that is driving two of the vaccines and also at some of the skepticism of the vaccines amongst the public.
How mRNA Technology Could Change the World (The Atlantic)
Few Facts, Millions Of Clicks: Fearmongering Vaccine Stories Go Viral Online (NPR)
(44:36) The guys also discuss some recent research into how different parenting styles may predispose people to falling into certain traps as adults.
What Parenting Styles Set Kids Up for Emotional Abuse? (Psychology Today)
DISCUSSION
Alarmed by the U.S. Intelligence Community recently released a declassified assessment of foreign threats to the 2020 U.S. election, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss whether the significance of the escalating efforts to undermine our democracy from abroad, often with assistance from domestic actors, is being underplayed (01:30). The guys also take a look at the fight over whether transgender women should be able to compete in women’s sports (36:08).
LINKS
Intelligence Community Assessment on Foreign Threats to the 2020 U.S. Federal Elections (DNI.gov)
US intelligence: Russia tried to help, and Iran tried to hurt, Trump’s 2020 reelection (Vox)
A New Report Adds Evidence That Trump Was a Russian Asset (Slate)
Russia and Iran tried to interfere with 2020 election, U.S. intelligence agencies say (CNBC)
Banning trans women from sports is not about fairness — it's about transphobia (Mic)
DISCUSSION:
It has been observed that political interactions have increased in intensity as markers of religious faith have declined, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at how religious and political approaches to interacting with others can differ and affect outcomes (02:00). The guys also discuss a recent push to improve civics education in schools (40:10).
LINKS:
America Without God (The Atlantic)
Massive investment in social studies and civics education proposed to address eroding trust in democratic institutions (WaPo)
DESCRIPTION:
A third stimulus has been signed into law in the United States, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider what it appears to be trying to accomplish and the political strategies around its passage (01:32). The guys also take a look at daylight savings time around the U.S. and wonder who will step up to save daylight all year round (36:21).
LINKS:
60% of Republicans Support Biden's $1.9 Trillion Stimulus: Poll (Newsweek)
Broad Public Support for Coronavirus Aid Package; Just a Third Say It Spends Too Much (Pew)
Covid stimulus bill passes as Republicans use cancel culture to hide their obstruction (NBC News)
Why Republicans Don’t Fear An Electoral Backlash For Opposing Really Popular Parts Of Biden’s Agenda (538)
Daylight saving time begins Sunday: 8 things to know about “springing forward” (Vox)
DESCRIPTION:
With Black Lives Matter establishing itself as a potent fundraiser, and local activists beginning to question its use of funds and demand financial support, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the organization’s growth and successes as well as some challenges it may face moving forward on its current trajectory (01:12). The guys also take a look at some research experiments where scientists were able to have two way communication with people who were sleep (36:52).
LINKS:
Ferguson activists demand $20 million from Black Lives Matter (Fox News)
Michael Brown’s father, Ferguson activists request $20 million from Black Lives Matter (Revolt)
BLM Responds to Demand From Mike Brown Sr. and Ferguson Organizer for $20 Million to the Site of 2014 Uprisings (The Root)
Killings by Police Declined after Black Lives Matter Protests (Scientific American)
Scientists Talked To People In Their Dreams. They Answered (NPR)
DESCRIPTION:
The fight over raising the federal minimum wage in the U.S. looks to be heating up, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider the extent to which most of the economic and the social questions being debated have already been answered (01:56). The guys also take a look at recent research on what makes men more likely to respond aggressively to threats to their masculinity (as opposed to physical threats) (42:13).
LINKS:
How raising minimum wage to $15 per hour could affect workers and small businesses (CNBC)
Republicans Grapple With Raising the Minimum Wage (NY Times)
Why the U.S. needs a $15 minimum wage (Economic Policy Institute)
'Be a Man': Why Some Men Respond Aggressively to Threats to Manhood (Duke.edu)
DESCRIPTION:
The crisis in Texas involving an overwhelmed power grid and millions being left in the cold presented a challenge and an opportunity for the state’s leadership, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the approach that has been taken and what is need for our society to better handle matters like these (01:23). The guys also take a look at Prince Hall, founder of Prince Hall Freemasonry and a fascinating but an underappreciated figure from the time of our nation’s founding (42:54).
LINKS:
Texas Blackout: How the Electrical Grid Failed (Bloomberg)
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott falsely wind turbines, Green New Deal for power grid outages (WaPo)
How Texas’ Drive for Energy Independence Set It Up for Disaster (NY Times)
Why some Texans are facing catastrophic electric bills after a winter storm (Vox)
Texas Power Outage Underscores Looming Climate Tests (Scientific American)
Millions of Texans wake up without safe drinking water after winter storm (NBC News)
Texas Is a Mess (Atlantic)
A Forgotten Black Founding Father (Atlantic)
Prince Hall Freemasonry: A Resource Guide (Library of Congress)
DESCRIPTION:
Henry Louis Gates Jr.’s “Reconstruction: America After the Civil War” documentary series, which originally aired in 2019 on PBS, provides a deep dive into an immensely impactful yet often overlooked time in American history, and James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and Rick Ellsley discuss their biggest takeaways from the series and how what happened during this time period still influences much of contemporary American culture, politics, and economics.
LINKS:
Reconstruction: America After the Civil War (PBS)
Reconstruction: America After the Civil War (Amazon Prime Video)
DESCRIPTION:
Facebook’s decision to ban vaccine misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic appears to be a major departure from its normal handling of misinformation, so James Keys and Rob Richardson discuss their reaction to this effort, the good and bad could come from it, the extent to which this kind of simple approach can work for our society’s complex problems (01:06). The guys also take a look at some recent research into how and why people procrastinate and discuss how they try to minimize procrastination in their own lives (30:21).
LINKS:
Removing More False Claims About COVID-19 and Vaccines (FB.com)
Facebook bans misinformation about all vaccines after years of controversy (Guardian)
With the Election Over, Facebook Gets Back to Spreading Misinformation (Vanity Fair)
Trump’s Twitter and Facebook bans are working (Vox)
'Why Do I Spend Weeks Avoiding Tasks That Will Take Me 10 Minutes to Do?' (Vice)
DESCRIPTION:
Mark Manson’s 2016 bestselling book “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck,” challenges many common beliefs on how to find happiness and fulfillment and lays out what it describes as a “counterintuitive approach,” so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss their impressions of the book and their thoughts on some of the major principles it articulates. NOTE: this podcast contains spoilers.
LINK(S):
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck (HarperOne)
It appears that significant amounts of government stimulus dollars are being used not for necessities but to play in the stock market, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how this happened and how big of a problem it is (01:13). The guys discuss the tradeoffs between security or convenience and privacy in light of a report about an employee for a national security company who used security cameras in customer’s homes to view unsuspecting people’s sex lives (39:41).
$1,400 Stimulus Checks Will Blow Up The Stock Market (Forbes)
The stock market is ending 2020 at record highs, even as the virus surges and millions go hungry (WaPo)
2020 Has Been a Great Year for Stocks and a Bear Market for Humans (Bloomberg)
Home alarm tech backdoored security cameras to spy on customers having sex (Arstechnica)
DESCRIPTION:
Society appears to have left the Industrial Age in the dust, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what that means for the concept of “work” and what people should be contributing to, and expecting from, society (02:24). The guys also take a look at some recent research into where rituals come from and what purpose they serve in our societies (41:05).
LINKS:
What’s Wrong with the Way We Work (New Yorker)
An Alligator Wrestler, A Casino Boss And A $12 Billion Tribe (Forbes)
Why do humans embrace rituals? Disease and danger may be at the root of the behaviors. (Nat Geo)
Radicalization in America is manifesting itself in dangerous ways, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider how big of a threat it poses to civil society as well as who, and what, can potentially settle things down (01:31). The guys also discuss the recent identification of an enzyme that may make it practically and commercially feasible to reuse plastic waste (44:40).
Watch ITV News' eyewitness report from inside the US Capitol as Trump supporters storm building (ITV)
The Insurrectionists Would Like You to Know That They’re the Real Victims (The Atlantic)
Impeach and Remove Trump Now (Intelligencer)
ACLU Counsel Warns of 'Unchecked Power' of Twitter, Facebook After Trump Suspension (Newsweek)
Have British scientists solved the problem of plastic pollution? (The Times)
Seeing the recent chatter about how 2020 revealed America as perhaps the most overprivileged society of all time, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana analyze the nature of the overprivileged and entitled mindset that pervades a significant chunk of Americans (01:44). The guys also dive into some recent stories about where life on Earth likely fits in relative to the rest of the galaxy (37:34).
America the overprivileged (Yahoo Finance)
The Milky Way is probably full of dead civilizations (Space.com)
“The Social Dilemma” docu-drama both explains and illustrates how social media exploits weaknesses in our humanity, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss their biggest takeaways from the film and the challenges that it details (01:14). The guys also consider what having a non-destructive social media environment would require (27:20) and take a look at where the film may have changed or confirmed their existing perceptions (37:17).
The Social Dilemma (Netflix)
The story of the extensive hack that hit agencies across the US government as well as many powerful private companies still has more questions than answers, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the nature of the hack in a modern context, how it has been reacted to, and some things that could or should be done looking forward (01:13). The guys also take a look at some recent statements about UFOs and aliens from apparently serious people around the globe (40:55).
U.S. cybersecurity firm FireEye discloses breach, theft of hacking tools (Reuters)
Russian government hackers are behind a broad espionage campaign that has compromised U.S. agencies, including Treasury and Commerce (WaPo)
What We Know About Russia's Alleged Hack Of The U.S. Government And Tech Companies (NPR)
Computer Hack Blamed on Russia Tests Limits of U.S. Response (WSJ)
Trump Contradicts Pompeo Over Russia’s Role in Hack (NY Times)
Senior Government Officials Keep Saying That UFOs and Aliens Are Real (Intelligencer)
An effort to break up Facebook and restore competition in the social media space has begun, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the issues surrounding the antitrust lawsuit seeking to force Facebook to sell off Instagram and WhatsApp (01:10). The guys also discuss some recent research that casts a tendency to see oneself as a victim may be a personality trait (33:23).
The FTC wants to break up Facebook (Yahoo Finance)
Why the US government wants Facebook to sell off Instagram and WhatsApp (Vox)
Behind Washington’s one-eighty on Facebook: A rethink of monopoly power (Politico)
Researchers identify a new personality construct that describes the tendency to see oneself as a victim (psypost.org)
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage on, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss recent reporting about the extent to which Florida’s governor has prevented health officials and experts in the state from providing information to on the virus to the public (01:28). The guys also discuss some interesting findings on how our expectations for our spouses and romantic partners have changed in modern times (29:21).
Sun Sentinel Investigation: Gov. Ron DeSantis ‘Ordered Public Health Officials Not To Discuss The COVID-19 Virus With The Public’ (CBS Local Miami) (republished in MSN.com)
We Expect Too Much From Our Romantic Partners (The Atlantic) (republished in GetPocket.com)
Seeing China’s recent declaration that it has eliminated extreme poverty, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the feasibility of eliminating poverty through central government action (01:28) and the challenges modern societies face in building sustainable systems as our technological and social environments continue to evolve (22:17).
China fulfills a dream to end poverty. Not all poor people are feeling better off (LA Times)
Recognizing the role scientific advancement can play in making our world a better place, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss Boris Johnson’s bold plan to outlaw gasoline vehicles in the U.K. by 2030 as part of a “green industrial revolution” (01:27) and take a look at some implications from recent advancements in producing lab created diamonds (20:22). The guys also weigh in on the age-old debate on whether scientific advancement could ever render religion obsolete (32:08).
UK to ban gasoline car sales by 2030 as part of green plan (ABC News)
Scientists create diamonds at room temperature in minutes (CNN)
Why Religion Is Not Going Away and Science Will Not Destroy It (Pocket)
Seeing the ongoing, unsubstantiated attacks on selective aspects of the 2020 election as a threat to the democratic process, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how democratic systems can only function if the vast majority of a populace is willing to buy into democratic norms (02:00) and consider what responsibility elected leaders and news media have in the presence of misinformation and unsubstantiated claims about elections (15:08). The guys also take a look at a recent study into how sleep affects is needed to perform (48:22)
Poll: 70 percent of Republicans don’t think the election was free and fair (Politico)
What Trump’s Refusal To Concede Says About American Democracy (538)
Federal prosecutors assigned to monitor election malfeasance tell Barr they see no evidence of substantial irregularities (WaPo)
Ga. secretary of state says fellow Republicans are pressuring him to find ways to exclude ballots (WaPo)
Lindsey Graham Says Republicans Lose Elections Because Democrats 'Cheat' (Newsweek)
Trump voters are flocking to a TV channel that claims Biden is not president-elect (CNN)
Why Six Hours Of Sleep Is As Bad As None At All (Pocket)
The 2020 U.S. Election included record levels of participation and a collective decision to make a change at the top, and James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and Rick Ellsley discuss what the election results reveal about the mindset of Americans, the messiness of democratic elections, and what circumstances or trends we need to keep our eyes on moving forward.
Biden defeats Trump in an election he made about character of the nation and the President (CNN)
Kamala Harris makes history as first woman of color elected US vice-president (The Guardian)
Voter Turnout Hits Historic Levels With States Still Counting Votes (Bloomberg)
COVID-19 rates are spiking across the globe, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana consider whether our societies have misjudged how pervasive the pandemic would be (01:13) and discuss comments from a conservative party leader in the UK about Boris Johnson "giving in to scientific advisers" with his lockdown measures (09:14). The guys also take a look at the apparent availability of cloned pets and some implications of technology’s advance on that front (33:56).
U.S. reports world record of more than 100,000 COVID-19 cases in single day (Reuters)
Boris Johnson accused of 'giving in to scientific advisers' as England heads for lockdown (CNN)
Iowa Woman Has Her 'Wonderful' Cat Cloned After His Death (People)
Sacha Baron Cohen’s Borat Subsequent Moviefilm reveals a lot about our society’s values, or its lack thereof, and James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and Rob Richardson take a look at various causes and effects of what we see (01:10) and consider what would be needed to get things on track (28:40).
Material discussed:
Borat Subsequent Moviefilm (Amazon Prime)
Republican and Democrat running against each other for Utah governor unite for joint ad (CBS News)
The story surrounding Ice Cube’s Contract with Black America was hijacked by politicians, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the Cube’s approach to getting it on the table and the public fallout, reasons why this type of action continues to be necessary, and the extent to which Black Americans may be taken for granted by America’s main political parties.
Contract with Black America
The Platinum Plan (pdf)
The inside story of how Ice Cube joined forces with Donald Trump (Politico)
From N.W.A. to MAGA: Ice Cube takes some heat for working with the Trump administration (CNN)
To understand why some Black men support Trump, start with Ice Cube (LA Times)
Ice Cube and Trump team up on jobs – Why are the left and right getting this story so wrong? (FoxNews)
New survey of 30,000 black voters finds that black communities feel ignored by Democrats (Vox)
The lifeblood of our system of government is voting, so James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and friend of the program Rick Ellsley discuss why voting matters in our governmental system (01:35), what they make of the aversion many Americans have to everyone (including themselves) voting (11:23), the specific challenges being faced in 2020 (27:18), and what it would take for more Americans to come together as far as wanting everyone (including themselves) to vote (44:56).
How, Where, and When to Vote (USA.gov)
Republican senator says 'democracy isn't the objective' of US system (The Guardian)
National General Election VEP Turnout Rates (electionproject.org)
U.S. trails most developed countries in voter turnout (Pew)
Participation in Presidential Elections by Sex Since 1980 (census.gov)
The 100 Million Project (the100million.org)
Trump’s encouragement of GOP poll watchers echoes an old tactic of voter intimidation (The Conversation)
Paul Weyrich - "I don't want everybody to vote" (Youtube)
Georgetown created fact sheets on illegal militias at the polls and what to do if you spot them (CNN)
A federal court just struck down North Carolina’s voter ID laws, citing racial discrimination (Vox)
Coronavirus update: New England Journal of Medicine says Trump should be voted out over pandemic management as U.S. death toll tops 212,000 (Market Watch)
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Ask Americans to Get Out and Vote: "You Deserve to Be Heard" (Yahoo)
Paulo Coelho's international bestselling book, "The Alchemist," is a timeless story about self discovery, destiny, travel and treasure, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss their impressions of and takeaways from some of the major themes in the story. Note that this podcast does contain spoilers.
The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho
The financial settlements paid by cities following police misconduct are undoubtedly a red flag, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the implications of the $12 million settlement paid by Louisville to the family of Breonna Taylor (01:05). The guys also compare discuss the commonality between America’s original conspiracy theory and conspiracy theories floating around today (26:56) and the disturbing story about mass hysterectomies being performed in ICE facilities (34:50).
Police Settlements: How The Cost Of Misconduct Impacts Cities And Taxpayers
An Illuminati Conspiracy Theory Captured American Imaginations in the Nation’s Earliest Days—And Offers a Lesson for Now
An ICE Nurse Revealed That A Georgia Detention Center Is Performing Mass Hysterectomies
The “Capital in the Twenty-First Century” documentary provided a fasted paced and fascinating look at the evolution of capital in recent history and how this has affected so much, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what stood out the most (01:27), what can be made of growing inequality trends (17:05), the link between wealth inequality and social instability (30:04), and how current trends can be addressed (43:12).
“Capital in the Twenty-First Century” documentary by Justin Pemberton (Netflix)
Our society’s recklessness and disregard seems to be making the Earth less hospitable to our society, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the accelerating destruction of, and increasing threats to, our habitat (01:21) and discuss ways that societies can make preserving the planet we live on more of a priority (32:55).
Referenced:
Death toll rises in US as wildfires continue in West Coast states (BBC)
Animal Populations Fell by 68% in 50 Years and It’s Getting Worse (Bloomberg)
Don’t Call It A Garbage Patch: The Truth About Cleaning Up Ocean Plastics (Huffpost)
Opinion: The Trump administration wants to discourage your 401(k) from including ESG investment options (MarketWatch)
With the coronavirus driven economic downturn still creating so much uncertainty, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss reports that are suggesting that the worst of the economic fallout is still to come (01:04). The guys also make sense of the fact that more young adults under 30 are living with their parents than on their own (28:49).
Material Discussed:
Here comes the real recession (Axios)
‘A tale of 2 recessions’: As rich Americans get richer, the bottom half struggles (Politico)
Majority Of U.S. Adults Under 30 Now Living With Parents, Study Finds (HuffPost)
It often seems that what happens means less to many people than who it happens to, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how public polarization outpaced investigation with the shooting of Jacob Blake (01:44) and some of the positive and negative things we have seen in the aftermath of the tragedy (16:07). The guys also try to make sense of the reports that our intelligence services will be restricting the information provided to Congress about ongoing threats to disrupt the 2020 election (38:43).
Material Discussed:
Police in Wisconsin shoot Black man in back multiple times, sparking protests
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jacob-blake-kenosha-shooting-wisconsin-police-black-man-protesters-gather/
A visual timeline of violence in Kenosha after police shooting of Jacob Blake
https://www.usatoday.com/in-depth/graphics/2020/08/27/jacob-blake-kenosha-police-shooting-two-killed/3442878001/
17-year-old charged with murder in Kenosha, Wisconsin, shootings
https://www.vox.com/2020/8/26/21402951/kyle-rittenhouse-jacob-blake-kenosha
Why the NBA Wildcat Strike Is So Important
https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/ep47pj/why-the-nba-wildcat-strike-is-so-important
NBA Playoffs Will Resume, League and Players Announce New Social Justice Initiatives
https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2020/08/nba-teams-strike-for-black-lives.html
Dems outraged as Trump administration scales back election security briefings
https://www.politico.com/news/2020/08/29/odni-to-scale-back-election-security-briefings-404919
Our intelligence community is sounding the alarm, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to the release of the final volume of the Senate Intel Committee’s Bipartisan Russia Report (01:08), discuss the ongoing information warfare campaign being waged against Americans and the “Firehose of Falsehood” propaganda model as explained by the RAND Corporation (09:24), and speak on the 100 anniversary the 19th Amendment which prohibited gender based voting restrictions (50:12).
Material discussed:
Rubio Statement on Senate Intel Release of Volume 5 of Bipartisan Russia Report
https://www.intelligence.senate.gov/press/rubio-statement-senate-intel-release-volume-5-bipartisan-russia-report
Senate Intel Committee Releases Bipartisan Report on Russia’s Use of Social Media
https://www.burr.senate.gov/press/releases/senate-intel-committee-releases-bipartisan-report-on-russias-use-of-social-media-
The Russian "Firehose of Falsehood" Propaganda Model
https://www.rand.org/pubs/perspectives/PE198.html
QAnon, the scarily popular pro-Trump conspiracy theory, explained
https://www.vox.com/policy-and-politics/2018/8/1/17253444/qanon-trump-conspiracy-theory-4chan-explainer
Women’s suffrage was a giant leap for democracy. We haven’t stuck the landing yet.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/lifestyle/100-years-of-womens-suffrage-whats-changed/
Articles discussed:
Trump Brags That He's Trying to Sabotage the Postal Service to Rig the Election
https://gizmodo.com/trump-brags-that-hes-trying-to-sabotage-the-postal-serv-1844717679
Postal workers are sounding the alarm as mail sorting machines are removed from processing facilities
https://theweek.com/speedreads/931215/postal-workers-are-sounding-alarm-mail-sorting-machines-are-removed-from-processing-facilities
How does vote-by-mail work and does it increase election fraud?
https://www.brookings.edu/policy2020/votervital/how-does-vote-by-mail-work-and-does-it-increase-election-fraud/
Donald Trump keeps blasting 'universal' mail voting. But few states are planning that in November
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2020/08/15/donald-trump-slams-universal-mail-voting-few-states-planning/3333957001/
Barr warns Democrats 'playing with fire' over 'grossly irresponsible' mail-in voting push
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/william-barr-democrats-mail-in-voting
Tomlinson: Coronavirus killed the free market. The Federal Reserve has taken charge.
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/business/columnists/tomlinson/article/coronavirus-killed-the-free-market-fed-reserve-15476077.php
Scientists Found a 200,000-Year-Old Human Bed Made From Grass and Ash
https://gizmodo.com/scientists-found-a-200-000-year-old-human-bed-made-from-1844715920
Articles discussed:
Trump issued an executive order effectively banning TikTok if it doesn’t sell in the next 45 days
https://www.vox.com/recode/2020/7/31/21350072/trump-tiktok-executive-order-ban-microsoft-sale-bytedance-china-security-concerns
A Private Equity Firm Bought Ancestry, and Its Trove of DNA, for $4.7B
https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/akzyq5/private-equity-firm-blackstone-bought-ancestry-dna-company-for-billions
Dogs understand praise the same way we do. Here's why that matters.
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/2020/08/dogs-praise-brains-human-language/
The “truth” about the coronavirus seems to vary depending on who you talk to, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana react to the apparent post truth nature of medicine (02:04), discuss why conspiracy theories and fanciful explanations for things seem to have so much appeal (18:09), and consider whether the widespread lack of any shared understanding of truth is a substantial threat to our democratic society (39:00).
Malcolm Gladwell’s Talking to Strangers laid out several concepts that influence how we deal with people we do not know, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss which of the concepts was most notable (02:25), which anecdotes from the book stood out (22:32), biases and trends that were present in several of the concepts (38:37) and whether the book gives us more or less faith in humanity’s ability to solve its problems (45:45).
We all encounter stressors and potential stressors all day long, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at what appears to be causing the most stress during the COVID-19 crisis (01:29), the nature of chronic stress and how it effects our bodies (06:44), and some of the things they do to manage stress (22:18). The guys also discuss the shift in the zodiac signs published by NASA and how the meaning one personally assigns to that make that shift something stressful (34:55).
The intersection of ideology, race, and religion is always going to be difficult to navigate, but James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the Anti-Semitic social media posts by NFL player DeSean Jackson, how he handled the resulting controversy so far, and the various societal factors that have come into play (01:11). The guys also consider how Black people who disagree with the comments should be responding (22:28) and how the topics of race and religion can make issues like this more difficult to discuss (39:05).
We have seen efforts to remove Confederate items from places of honor pick up in recent times, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the armed protest of a Confederate monument in Georgia on July 4th (01:24), including whether the images of armed protestors could be used to undermine the message of the protestors (17:10). The guys also discuss whether naked appeals to a “Confederate heritage” can still be politically viable in the U.S. (24:52) and the apparent attempts to reduce the issue to a partisan one (29:56).
Articles referenced in the discussion:
Angry residents erupt at meeting over new mask rule (cnn.com)
Social Distancing and Masks Are Effective in Reducing the Spread of Coronavirus, Study Confirms (people.com)
The psychology behind why some people won't wear masks (cnn.com)
American Demagogues (nytimes.com)
“Bombshell” was in large part about of the women who exposed the culture of sexual harassment at Fox News, but it also showed an approach to making news media profitable, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the sexualizing of aspects of news presentation (01:46), the selection and presentation of news to play on emotion (18:07) and confirmation bias (34:43) in order to target specific types of viewers and obtain unquestioned loyalty from those viewers. The guys also take a look at how different people respond to the type of accusations dealt with in the movie, particularly in situations involving conduct that is not egregious as the stuff that was happening at Fox News (44:54).
The right to vote has been in large part secured, but the fight against efforts to make it inaccessible is ongoing, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the issues Georgia primary and how the practice of voter suppression often plays out (02:00), discuss the typical battle lines in the fight to make voting more or less accessible, including LeBron James’ recent entry into the fray (26:23), and how these battle lines influence, and are influenced by, the strategies of the Republican and Democratic parties (39:49).
Americans coming together in such large numbers is a reassertion of the ultimate power of the people, so James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and Carlton Washington discuss what change is being sought, and what change should be sought, by the people (01:34), the defund the police theme that has picked up steam in recent weeks (12:15), how some public figures and institutions have publicly (and apparently genuinely) changed their tune on the urgency of fighting for justice and equality (30:26), and what appears to be a massive turn away from divisiveness and towards coming together to address societal issues (43:20).
The murder of George Floyd has been a flashpoint for civil unrest around the U.S., and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the actual murder and how people will be given opportunities to perceive it however they would like (01:19), the protests and the frustration which fuels them and the commonality that binds together all of the peaceful protestors (07:57), taking a specific look at the peaceful protestors really embody the equality ideology (15:30). The guys also discuss the looting and violence that has popped up as well as the militarized approach to the demonstrations (33:15) and consider what comes next (47:23).
Our current economic situation seems dire, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at what experts are saying is in store for our economy, including whether we are in position to have a quick recovery (01:42) or experience an extended depression (09:32) and if anything can be done to get things back on track more quickly (19:05). The guys also discuss a coal power plant’s plan billion dollar bet to stay viable by building the largest carbon capture facility ever (41:02).
No one man should have all that power, so James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and Carlton Washington take a look at the use of power and privilege to undermine the rule of law, particularly taking a look at the murder of Ahmaud Arbery and the failure to arrest the killers (01:54) and the armed protests of COVID lockdown and whether use of intimidation tactics are justified (21:05). The guys also discuss what Attorney General William Barr is attempting to do in trying to let off Michael Flynn after Flynn admitted to lying to federal agents and whether President Obama is correct that rule of law is at risk due to Barr’s conduct (37:28).
Continuing their look at Confessions of an Economic Hit Man, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how the described corporatocracy system and economic hit man activity undeniably did provide some benefits to Americans (02:22). The guys also consider whether a having corporatocracy with economic hit men is inconsistent with the foundational values of the America republic (11:16), whether economic imperialism is inevitable (23:32), and the extent to which our human nature makes varying economic systems ripe for exploitation and/or unworkable (37:28).
Martin Scorsese’s “The Irishman” told a story that involved some of the most monumental political and social events in the 20th century, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what stood out from a economic and a human standpoint in the movie (1:17), take a look at how certain aspects of how power is exercised is timeless and how others may have changed (18:00), and debate whether strong armed tactics are a necessary component of organized labor (42:52). The guys also consider the plausibility the explanations that are given in the movie for certain key events in the 20th century (51:41).
Confessions of an Economic Hit Man is unquestionably an eye opening book, and James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what about the described corporatocracy system and economic hit man activity stood out to them (0:58) and how learning about the way things may go down behind the scenes can improve one’s understanding of what is going on around us navigating (17:11). The guys also take a look at how our insatiable need for oil drives much of what is described in the book and also led to some peculiar geopolitical arrangements (29:16).
As our society continues to try to weather the fallout from COVID-19, James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and Rob Richardson discuss the unprecedented nature of the ongoing job losses and what a recovery for working people would look like (2:02) and why the government stimulus did not seem to serve working people (18:45). The guys also point out that Americans, including the most staunch capitalist, often embrace socialist policies (30:57), how some are really good at taking advantage of this socialist streak (39:05), and how this kind of disconnect plays a role in working people being unable to effectively demand a fair shake in our economy (46:51).
There are many things about the human experience that the more we learn about, the less we understand, so James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how sleep is generally understood (1:29), how various factors can influence the ability to get good sleep (12:58), and the importance of sleep and how it plays a large role in the ability to function (18:02). The guys also take a look at how willpower works and is used, and how it is used and understood can influence how effective it can be used (29:11) and an interesting technique that people seem to use both consciously and unconsciously to improve willpower (44:51).
Having recently completed their forms from the U.S. 2020 Census, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at the census and why participation is vital for having your interests addressed by our government (02:00). The guys also discuss how the handling of race in the 2020 Census illustrates that race as we know it is an artificial construct (10:49), speculate why the concept of race is used the way that it is (21:43), and consider whether race is used in the U.S. in an analogous way to the way tribe has been used in societies (44:47).
With the Democratic Party in its current form seeming so ineffective and unable to consistently fill its role in our two party system of governance, James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and Rob Richardson discuss whether the Democratic Party is wasting our time with such a defective approach to politics (02:32) and whether there is anything that the party as a whole really stands for other than good intentions (16:49). The guys also consider how the party of FDR and LBJ could become so ineffective (29:39) and whether the party could be replaced if it cannot pull itself back together (43:40).
Alexander Hamilton has a story we can all relate to, and James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and special guest Rick Ellsley take a look at the hit Broadway musical, Hamilton, with music, lyrics, and book by Lin-Manuel Miranda, specifically getting into the things that stood out in Hamilton's story and the musical production (02:43) and whether the historical story was effectively told through musical form (12:07). The birth of extreme partisanship and the role partisanship and compromise played in early stages of our government (30:11), presentation of women's stories (46:11), and the A.Ham v. A.Burr debate (51:12) are all also discussed.
How someone responds in the face of crisis is telling, so with societies around the globe in crisis mode dealing with COVID-19, James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana and Rob Richardson take a look at the type of characteristics in a leader can make them effective in times of crisis (02:09) and discuss some positive things they have seen from leaders at various levels during this crisis (09:26). They also explore some bothersome or concerning things leaders have said and done during the current crisis (18:46) and contemplate how we as a democratic society can pick better leaders (36:44).
As COVID-19 continues its rapid spread in the U.S. and around the world, James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and Rob Richardson take a look at the practice of social distancing, how has been presented by many authorities as a way to make the spread of the virus more manageable (01:42), and how some have seemingly disregarded the practice (12:26). The guys also discuss some of the serious economic concerns that come with social distancing and potentially a national lockdown (24:51), what they see in the panic buying trends sweeping the nation (42:23), and what they would stock up on if there was a national lockdown (48:00).
After seeing Super Tuesday shake up the Democratic primary, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what they see in Bernie Sanders’ sudden skid (02:01) and examine whether Bernie’s reliance on young people and traditionally disengaged voters is a faulty strategy (17:20). Also considered is the extent to which there are parallels between Bernie’s insurgency movement in the Democratic party and Trump’s insurgency movement in 2016 in the Republican party (25:27) and how well the respective party establishment’s dealt with these insurgencies (47:15).
As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to spread across the globe and begins to make its prescence felt in the United States, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana look at the response in the United States, including how it seems that some in the leadership seem more concerned with deflecting blame than understanding and dealing with the problem (01:06) and whether the loss of credibility in the executive branch of the government makes the new gag rule on scientists look shady (20:10). We also try to make sense of how the financial markets have reacted to the continued spread of the virus (33:02).
Understanding that the Internet can overload you with what you want to see, and also make it impossible to avoid things you don’t want to see, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the role the Internet research played in a tragic story of an attempted ‘freebirth’ that went wrong (01:11), the role trolling on the Internet played in the death of one of the UK’s most famous TV stars (18:54), and singer Billie Eilish’s claim that social media was ruining her life (24:32). We also consider whether black conservatives, such as Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas are unfairly excluded from Black History Month celebrations (31:05).
As there are power dynamics in most human interactions, we explore Robert Greene's masterpiece, 48 Laws of Power. James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss how many of the individual laws seem to tie into some broader concepts, noting particular laws that seem to relate to changing minds (01:48), avoiding trouble (11:19), moving crowds (26:47), and making moves (40:13).
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana look at how societal will and innovation has allowed driven progress in the environmental movement alongside continued growth in a way that was seemingly unimaginable 50 years ago (01:09) and consider in this light whether our current climate concerns are overblown (14:11). We also discuss what we see in the efforts of some cisgender females to keep transgender competitors out of women’s track competitions (19:01) and what the identification of another ancient human species that that modern humans apparently interacted and interbred with means in our modern society (38:44).
Now that voting has begun for the Democratic Party’s Presidential Primary, James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and Rob Richardson discuss what we has stood out so far (01:33) and whether the primary process, which has some visible flaws, can deliver a viable candidate (11:22). We also consider whether Michael Bloomberg is making a mockery of the process by jumping in so late and spending so much (27:57) and debate whether we think the threat posed by the Trump Administration to the Constitution and the rule of law is serious enough to support any eventual Democratic nominee (41:36).
With Georgetown University's decision divest from fossil fuel investments, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what we see with the massive amounts of carbon that is and has been released from the burning of fossil fuels (:48) and wonder whether it's too late to prevent catastrophe (10:38). We also take a look at Clearview AI's building and selling of a massive facial recognition database from online pictures and data (26:54) and big tech's demands to Clearview AI to get its hands off "their" data, recognizing of course that "their" data is us (34:49).
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what we see generally with the cost of living squeeze being felt by many American families (0:55), looking first at some of the factors which may be influencing the excessive rise in housing costs (7:22). We also touch on what may be going on with the increase in other common costs, such as student loan debt and child care (19:44), try to reconcile the perceived strength of the economy in general with the struggles of the workers (30:10), and consider how the actions of government and the operation of our capitalist system can play a positive or negative role in addressing this crisis (36:33).
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana take a look at how societal events can reveal the extent that human psychology influences short term stock market activity (00:52) and how people's subjective thoughts about leaders can also have substantial effect on the market and their perception of the economy (17:55). We also discuss the coronavirus and reasons why it has dominated our consciousness even though the flu may be a bigger risk (34:54) and Alan Dershowitz’s dangerous advocacy for an omnipotent president on the Senate floor (50:33)
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana look at the jailing of a University of Minnesota student from China for political tweets (00:53), how this may be the type of thing LeBron James was worried about during the NBA and China controversy (04:02), and wonder if the government’s legal retaliation against CNN and AT&T puts us on a slippery slope towards this (07:30). We also discuss Robert Downey Jr.’s recent comments on the use of blackface in Tropic Thunder (9:40), the presence of “forever” chemicals in the water supply of many Americans (18:20) and the general lack of concern for protecting our environment (20:57), and the disconnect between the so called experts and many members of the public concerning keto diets (34:35).
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana get into how impeachment works generally as a mechanism of our republic and why we have it (01:27), what we think about the actual charges that have been brought (12:08) and whether removal from office is warranted (27:00). We also analyze at some of the narratives being told and strategic plays being made (33:09) and compare aspects of the impeachment trial to the OJ Simpson trial (43:30).
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the “old fashioned” fight over student loan forgiveness between the Secretary of Education and the House or Representatives (01:26) and the potential cancelling of the Worldwide Threat Assessment for a problematic reason (18:48), the revelation that screen time may be stunting the brain development of our youth (32:23), and issues around Hank Azaria’s refusal to continue to voice the Simpson’s character Apu (42:19).
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s fourth book, Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community (00:57), including our reactions to concepts he discussed such as racism being a dominant ideology in America and the backlash that follows progress (07:13). We also discuss what we saw in Dr. King's analysis on the effect centuries of racism has had on blacks and on whites (28:43) and a couple of Dr. King's thoughts on things we need to get to a better place (47:20).
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss our reaction to the revelation that micro plastics are accumulating in our bodies (00:56) and that our cell phones are being used to track our locations whether we know it or not (14:48). We also weigh in on the controversy surrounding the Cleveland Cavaliers coach referring to his players as thugs (26:12) and offer our thoughts on Megxit as a surprising and unconventional response to the unfair scrutiny that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been subjected to (39:32), including the parallel to John Boyega’s response to out of line Star Wars fans.
In this episode, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana look at economic performance in the U.S. from multiple angles, including what we see in the incredible growth of the stock market over the last twenty years (01:25), why the workers are not feeling much of that growth (7:12), how much automation and technology affects outcomes (21:12), whether our larger economic system itself is the problem, the solution, or both (32:48), and how government policy plays a large role in how economic spoils are distributed (41:36).
In this episode, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss what we see in the proposed split of the United Methodist Church and the inevitable tensions between religious beliefs, religious doctrine, and personal and group sensibilities (00:45), what we make of the Australian fires and how climate change may now begin to change nature in ways that more directly affect our lives (16:58), what we see in the controversy surrounding the dofasting app (31:41), and our thoughts on fasting in general (38:14). Listen to your body (46:24)!
In this episode, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana look at the U.S. strike which took out Iranian General Soleimani and discuss whether the decision to act right now made any sense (00:48), whether U.S. leadership is entitled to the benefit of the doubt as to their decision making and motivations (7:31), what we should be doing in the middle east (23:43), and whether Americans have the want to and the leadership to meet challenges that come with being a nation and a superpower (32:48).
In part two of our December 2019 roundup, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss whether it was a big deal for Christianity Today's to call for the removal of President Trump (0:52), how that has exposed an apparent rift between Christians as an interest group and as a moral institution (8:00), and how evangelicals were actually against Trump before they were for him (23:09).
In part one of our December 2019 roundup, James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana discuss the lack of controversy surrounding Nike's release of a modesty swimwear line (1:32), the implications of Iran beginning joint naval drills with America's biggest rivals on the world stage (15:22), and Eddie Murphy's return to SNL and the fallout from that (27:40).
What was the science story of the 2010 decade (1:20)? What entertainment story defined the 2010 decade (10:09)? What was the biggest international news story in the 2010 decade (16:50)? What about the most notable trend in domestic news (27:44)? What will we remember as being significant about social media in the 2010 decade (34:50)? What technology defined the 2010s (47:49)? How about honorable mentions (57:43)? Our predictions for 2020s (1:05:40)?
Are mastery, and opportunity to obtain mastery, overlooked in understanding what makes successful people successful (1:56)? Exceptional analytical intelligence does not itself make an outlier, part 1 (9:16). Exceptional analytical intelligence does not itself make an outlier, part 2 (16:28). How can adversity and timing lead to opportunity (36:54)? How do cultural legacies influence our approach to and interaction with the world (48:11)?
Do people generally use ideological labels to describe their belief system or their club (0:49)? Is this phenomenon getting worse, or do things like social media just show what’s already there (16:25)? Is the United States particularly vulnerable to tribalism and can our system survive it (28:51)? What needs to happen to bring us together (43:09)?
What makes streaming different and what does it mean to me (0:47)? What is in it for the media companies (9:40)? What makes a streaming service worth it (15:41)? Is streaming an example of technology making things better for all stakeholders (24:39)? Are there potential problems (38:23)? Is streaming a good deal for consumers (44:10)?
Are identity politics dead or can they still serve a purpose (0:38)? Is there an obligation to support politicians that look like us, or can beliefs transcend identity (10:43)? Are Bernie’s policies viable (14:49)? Could his movement get him elected and save our economy (18:25)? What’s with the insistence on self identifying as a socialist, and will it cost him (28:34)?
Can Bernie Sanders tell you how not to get shot by the police (0:41)? Would you rather be offered honest advice or empathy, and would rather agitate the system or take control of it (3:23)? Is there room for compromise and understanding in the fight for progress (19:02)? What about introspection (27:32)?
THE NEW GOLDEN AGE - The Coming Revolution against Political Corruption and Economic Chaos
by Ravi Batra
https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781466886452
What about our politics makes Americans hate each other (0:57)? Regardless of the reason, the extreme political polarization is serving the interests of our rivals (24:15). Fake news is driven by demand, but the ability to effectively deliver the supply has made all the difference (33:01). Be careful what you wish for asking Facebook to be the arbiter of truth for political advertisements (47:48).
Even in the face of controversy, LeBron James has never backed down when standing against injustice. Does his unwillingness to discuss the issues in Hong Kong signal a change in approach? Or does the size of the Chinese market, or its distance from the U.S., justify a different approach? (50:01)
The continued existence of America, as a nation of laws and not men, is being threatened. James Keys, Tunde Ogunlana, and Rob Richardson discuss how patriots must call out these threats and work together to answer them. We must keep America America! (1:02:21)