The John Fugelsang Podcast

Latest Episodes:

We're Still Here with Simon and Julie Jun 20, 2026

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In this episode, John is joined by the insightful Simon Moya Smith and Julie Francella as they delve into the powerful intersection of Indigenous culture and contemporary issues. They reflect on their recent participation in the James Beard Awards in Chicago, highlighting the significance of Indigenous foodways and the importance of storytelling in creating spaces that honor Native traditions. Simon and Julie share their experiences of moderating discussions on sovereignty, environmental justice, and the reclamation of Indigenous narratives, emphasizing the need for recognition and respect for Indigenous rights. The conversation also touches on the ongoing struggles against colonization, the complexities of citizenship, and the fight for land rights. As listeners call in, Simon and Julie offer insights into the resilience of Indigenous communities and the urgent need for broader awareness of their histories and struggles.

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Obama’s Presidential Center Celebration and the Trump Tidal Wave of Turmoil Jun 19, 2026

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This time - John's monologue reflects on the triumphant opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, with a star-studded day of speeches and performances. He then points out Trump's foreign policy blunders and reflects on how the Obama administration's Iran deal has been overshadowed by Trump's chaotic approach to international relations. Then, Reverend Barry Lynn adds a unique perspective, discussing the intersection of religion and politics, and the need for solidarity among diverse faith communities. And finally, Dr. Christian Green, an advocate for voting rights and civic engagement, shares his experiences and the challenges faced by marginalized communities in exercising their right to vote. The conversation touches on the ongoing threats to democracy, including voter suppression tactics that disproportionately affect Black, Latino, and low-income voters.

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Intel Without Treason - War Without Reason Jun 18, 2026

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Today - John discusses Trump's wishy washy flip flopping on selecting Jay Clayton as his nominee to serve as the Director of National Intelligence. But then, the confirmation hearing was abruptly canceled after Trump ordered him not to appear before the Senate unless they pass the voter purge bill AKA the SAVE Act. He also talks about the details of the Memorandum of Understanding between Iran and the United States - which were released late in the day, confirming to many that this Great Deal is indeed worse than the JCPOA. Then, Bob Cesca returns and they chat about the redistricting efforts in Georgia and the challenges faced by progressive movements in today's climate. Next, John welcomes back author Brad Meltzer, and they talk about his latest kids book called "Ordinary People Change The World Series: I Am Teddy Roosevelt". Then winding it up, Desimber Rose and Dillon Naber Cruz AKA The God Squad joins the show to speak with listeners and explore the intersection of politics and religion.

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JD Vance: Drowning in the Dirty Reflecting Pool of Regrets Jun 17, 2026

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John this time discusses JD Vance who continued his media tour - selling another theoretical ceasefire with Iran as anything but an American strategic loss of lives, time and money. He also talks about the disastrous waste of tax-payer money Trump spent on renovating the reflecting pool and then having it turn green with algae soon after. Then, he interviews the founder and CEO of the National Democratic Training Committee - Kelly Dietrich. She shares her expertise on the current political climate and the importance of grassroots movements in shaping the future of the Democratic Party. Next, he speaks with Allison Butler who is the Director of the Media Literacy Certificate Program in the Department of Communication at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she teaches courses on critical media literacy and representations of education in the media. They talk about the complexities of media representation and the challenges faced by women in the public eye. She argues that visibility does not equate to power, and that women are often portrayed through patriarchal lenses that diminish their complexity. And then lastly, John jokes with Keith Price and they take calls from listeners about living life in the hellscape of Trumpland.

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The Confusing Clown Chaos of Commercial Cage-Fights and Ceasefire Compromises Jun 16, 2026

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In this episode of The John Fugelsang Podcast, John dives into the spectacle of the recent White House UFC event, where he talks about the implications of violent entertainment in politics. He shares his controversial support for the event as a form of harm reduction, arguing that it distracts MAGA supporters from targeting marginalized communities. He also discusses Trump's recent claims about a supposed deal with Iran, which turns out to be nothing more than a memorandum of understanding that changes little. Then, he's joined by Professor Corey Brettschneider and they explore the constitutional implications of recent political maneuvers, including the alarming attempts to suspend habeas corpus and the use of the postal service to influence voting rights. Then lastly, comedian Rhonda Hansome adds her insights on the current state of racism in America, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities while addressing the absurdity of the political landscape. Together, they tackle the cultural ramifications of the slugfest and its reflection on American society.

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Trillionaire Welfare Queen Jun 15, 2026

Show notes

John’s monologue this time is about Elon Musk being the earth’s first trillionaire welfare queen. Next, he interviews election consultant Jen Johannsen on the Democratic party and her work with political candidates. Then finally, a recap of the week with TV's Frank Conniff on Trump getting booed at the Knicks game and his on camera walk out with Kristen Welker on Meet the Press.

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Special Interviews for the Weekend Jun 13, 2026

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Robert Parkinson * Insha Rahman * Brad Lander * Steven Beschloss

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Despite the Joke and the Diet Coke - When You Suffer a Stroke You Cannot Stay Woke Jun 12, 2026

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John talks about Trump’s repeated declarations of imminent deals with Iran, questioning the credibility of his statements as he seems increasingly detached from reality. He highlights Trumps bizarre behavior during public appearances, including falling asleep on stage and his weird drugged demeanor. John also discusses Trumps new nominee for Director of National Intelligence, Jay Clayton. And if you're wondering what intelligence experience Clayton has that qualifies him to oversee your country's entire intelligence apparatus, the answer is... he went on CNBC this week and hinted that California elections might be rigged. Next, Ann Larson, author of "Clean Up on Aisle Five," joins the conversation, shedding light on the struggles of grocery workers during the pandemic and the systemic issues of poverty and exploitation in the food industry. Together, they explore the implications of corporate greed and the urgent need for a living wage for essential workers. Then, Simon Moya Smith and Julie Francella, return for another edition of "We're Still Here". One of the standout moments in the episode is the discussion around the upcoming House of Smoke and Ash event, organized by the James Beard Foundation. This indigenous culinary event showcases the rich foodways and traditions of native chefs, emphasizing the importance of food sovereignty and the need for greater recognition of indigenous contributions to our culinary landscape.

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Nipples, Nightmares, and National Security: The Trump-Epstein Chronicles Episode 8647 Jun 11, 2026

Show notes

John discusses inflation reaching a three-year high, and Trump saying that he “loves inflation”. This emphasizes the disconnect between political rhetoric and the realities faced by everyday Americans struggling with rising costs. He also talks about the shocking new revelations surrounding Trump's alleged connections to the Epstein files. he dissects the implications of the recent New York Times bombshell that links Trump to child abuse allegations, highlighting the panic within the White House as officials scramble to protect him rather than the victims. Then, Bob Cesca returns to chat about Trump's new version of inflation, the ceasing of the ceasefire in Iran, and the new bombshell report on the Epstein files meeting in the Situation Room. Next, former pastor Desimber Rose joins John to discuss the role of media in shaping public perception, critiquing how certain narratives are constructed and the impact they have on political discourse. Then finally, John welcomes the insightful Dr. Tracy Pearson, who shares her expert analysis on the implications of Trump’s remarks and the broader context of his administration's policies. The conversation turns to the ongoing challenges within the Republican Party, particularly regarding candidates like Graham Platner, who are navigating the tricky waters of MAGA politics.

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Lies, Losses, and Lunacy PLUS Dementia, Delusions, and Dermatitis Jun 10, 2026

Show notes

John discusses the ongoing political landscape, including the House's narrow passage of a $70 billion immigration funding bill, and the implications of Trump's recent statements about Iran and his foreign policy blunders. The conversation takes a deeper turn as John welcomes education advocate and AFT President Randi Weingarten, who shares her insights on the need to ban screens in classrooms for young children and the dangers of AI in education. Next, Brian Derrick, co-founder of Oath, joins the conversation to discuss the state of the Democratic Party and the importance of strategic political giving. He sheds light on the generational divide within the party and the growing demand for candidates who are willing to fight for progressive values. Derek highlights the enthusiasm among grassroots donors for candidates who challenge the status quo, emphasizing the critical role that down-ballot races play in shaping the future of American politics. Then finally, comedian Keith Price joins the mix, bringing his unique comedic perspective on the current political climate and the absurdities that abound in Trumpland.

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