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...
Jul 30, 2024•52 min•Ep. 259
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)...
Jul 23, 2024•41 min•Ep. 258
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 S...
Jul 16, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 257
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 Coun...
Jul 09, 2024•57 min•Ep. 256
James Keys and Tunde Ogunlana a recent decision from the U.S. Supreme Court which places presidents above the law and other decisions which 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 decis...
Jul 02, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 255
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-lik...
Jun 25, 2024•56 min•Ep. 254
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). E...
Jun 19, 2024•59 min•Ep. 253
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 (P...
Jun 11, 2024•36 min•Ep. 252
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, particu...
Jun 04, 2024•59 min•Ep. 251
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 ...
May 28, 2024•57 min•Ep. 250
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 bat...
May 21, 2024•55 min•Ep. 247
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...
May 14, 2024•56 min•Ep. 248
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 ...
May 07, 2024•52 min•Ep. 247
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 C...
Apr 30, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 245
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 ...
Apr 23, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 245
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 Disreg...
Apr 16, 2024•46 min•Ep. 244
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 th...
Apr 09, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 243
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 ...
Apr 02, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 242
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 adminis...
Mar 26, 2024•56 min•Ep. 241
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 an...
Mar 19, 2024•58 min
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...
Mar 12, 2024•59 min
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...
Mar 05, 2024•59 min
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 natio...
Feb 27, 2024•54 min
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) P...
Feb 20, 2024•1 hr 1 min
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)...
Feb 13, 2024•1 hr 1 min
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 twi...
Feb 06, 2024•57 min
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 hap...
Jan 30, 2024•56 min
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 ‘caret...
Jan 23, 2024•54 min
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 New...
Jan 16, 2024•57 min
(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 T...
Jan 09, 2024•59 min
