The "What's Going On?" Podcast

What’s Going On: A “War of Choice,” Israel, and the Risks of Escalation

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2505768/open_sms] The fellows debate the U.S. becoming more deeply involved in a Middle East conflict, calling it a “war of choice” tied to Israel and pointing to shifting official explanations. They connect today’s tensions to U.S. history in Iran, arguing that democracy requires participation and that non-participation has enabled fascism and weakened checks on presidential power, with Republicans and the courts failing to restrain Trump. The conversation covers naval attacks, drone strikes, evacuations, embassy closures, and plans to ramp up wartime production, along with concerns about rising gas and food prices, global isolation, and the risk of wider escalation involving China or North Korea. They also raise fears of terrorism, possible nuclear use, a return of the draft, and war being used to disrupt midterms. Support the show [https://buy.stripe.com/fZu9AT5DIfjm4Sn1SN3AY00]

Deconstructing Hype: Truth and Lies in the State of the Union 2026

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2505768/open_sms] Fellows React to Trump’s State of the Union: Decorum, Lies, Voting Restrictions, and the Fragility of Democracy The fellows discuss President Donald Trump’s State of the Union as a hype-filled production marked by lies, name-calling, and grandstanding, criticizing Republicans as complicit, fearful puppets who have ceded power to Trump. They debate whether Democrats should maintain decorum or forcefully confront falsehoods, citing past breaches like the Obama-era “you lie” incident and supporting recent outbursts and protest signs such as Al Green’s. The group condemns Trump’s posts and rhetoric, argues he is pushing stricter voting rules and attacking mail-in voting despite numerous failed lawsuits, and warns democracy is fragile, noting claims that 72% of the world lives under authoritarian rule. They express concern over expanded detention and immigration enforcement, urge organizing beyond voting, demand accountability, and emphasize activism and protecting democracy ahead of the midterms. Support the show [https://buy.stripe.com/fZu9AT5DIfjm4Sn1SN3AY00]

It's the Economy Stupid - Part 2

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2505768/open_sms] The Impact of Inflation on Everyday Life | What's Going On Podcast In this week's episode, hosts Mike and Tom dive into the effects of inflation on utilities, healthcare, and energy costs, highlighting the struggles of lower-income families. They also explore issues of housing affordability, including the rising costs of building homes and the disparity between wages and housing prices. The duo shares insights on post-COVID economic pressures, increased tariffs, and the challenges of the labor market. Tune in for an engaging discussion on how inflation is shaping our economy. Support the show [https://buy.stripe.com/fZu9AT5DIfjm4Sn1SN3AY00]

CBP Shot and Killed Alex Pretti

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2505768/open_sms]  This week’s conversation centers around the Federal Agents in Minneapolis who shot and killed Alex Pretti. The fellas again discuss Trigger Happy Policing as they describe the Agents' actions. They discuss how the Trump Administration immediately sought to make the narrative its own.  They discuss the Administration's hypocrisy on the Second Amendment and the Federal Agent’s lack of compassion. Support the show [https://buy.stripe.com/fZu9AT5DIfjm4Sn1SN3AY00]

Internet Blackouts, The New World Order and a lesson of Self-Confidence

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2505768/open_sms] In this episode, Keith, Mike, and Tom engage in a lively and passionate discussion about the New World Order, focusing specifically on Canada's Prime Minister's speech at the World Economic Forum. They start the episode by discussing the possibility of internet blackouts in the United States.  The episode ends with Mike sharing a relatable story from his high school days and how the importance of self-confidence and the value of always doing your best will prepare you for life’s challenges ahead. https://youtu.be/flsgJe8mN-A?si=k96ef2TEiqzZ_kcu Support the show [https://buy.stripe.com/fZu9AT5DIfjm4Sn1SN3AY00]