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It's News to Us

It's News to Us

By It's News to Us

Commentary on today’s news and events—with plenty of humor mixed in. Sometimes accompanied by guests from the worlds of music and politics.
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Gavels, Gamblers, and Gears

It's News to UsApr 25, 2024

00:00
01:08:51
Gavels, Gamblers, and Gears

Gavels, Gamblers, and Gears

The historic criminal trial of former President Trump, accused of orchestrating a conspiracy to influence the 2016 election via hush money payments. The significant unionization at Volkswagen's Chattanooga plant, a landmark decision for workers' rights. The guilty plea of a former Marine in the January 6 Capitol riot.The NBA's ban of Jontay Porter for gambling violations. The groundbreaking high-speed rail project linking Las Vegas to Los Angeles, set to revolutionize travel by 2028.

Plus, guest Ana Friedberg from the project Friedberg.

Apr 25, 202401:08:51
Election Woes and Legal Throws

Election Woes and Legal Throws

This week… the GOP's dance with Russian propaganda, migrants turning the tables, and the unending saga of Donald Trump's legal labyrinth. We're not stopping there; Ted Cruz's reelection jitters, a Wyoming wolf's bar-hopping misadventure, and a Hollywood-worthy $30 million heist. And, we uncover the bizarre tale of "zombie cicadas." 

Apr 09, 202455:17
Swipe Left on Liberty: The TikTok Ban

Swipe Left on Liberty: The TikTok Ban

Dive into the digital deep end with us as we explore the U.S. government's latest tech target: TikTok. With lawmakers on a mission to possibly ban the app, American teens might have to find new ways to avoid eye contact at dinner.

Plus, a peek into Princess Kate's vanishing act and AI's awkward phase of being, well, kinda racist.

Mar 20, 202455:27
Millions, Misdeeds, and Media Mayhem

Millions, Misdeeds, and Media Mayhem

Donald Trump's bank account is feeling lighter than his hairdo after a New York judge slapped him with a $355 million penalty for inflating his wealth.


And former FBI informant Alexander Smirnov is accused of fabricating a bribery scheme involving President Joe Biden and Hunter Biden. Plus, the FCC is putting its foot down on AI-generated robocalls, and George Santos is suing Jimmy Kimmel over some Cameo video pranks.

Feb 20, 202452:52
Guest: Jason Lamb, and more

Guest: Jason Lamb, and more

The courts have ruled against Donald Trump, declaring he cannot claim presidential immunity to avoid prosecution for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. This pivotal decision not only puts Trump's legal strategy in jeopardy but also primes the stage for a potential Supreme Court battle that could redefine the scope of executive power. 


Plus, a critical Atlantic Ocean current system is showing early signs of collapse, Ozzy takes on Kayne West, and guest Jason Lamb, author of the book NoMeansNo: From Obscurity to Oblivion, which details the journey of the best punk and most influential bands you’ve probably never heard of.

Feb 13, 202401:04:49
Crowns, Courts, Crisis, and Guest Jefferey Everett

Crowns, Courts, Crisis, and Guest Jefferey Everett

Multifaceted designer, illustrator, and writer, Jefferey Everett. Under the alias Rockets are Red, Jeffrey has crafted designs for bands like Social Distortion, Flogging Molly, Foo Fighters, Jason Mraz, Flight of the Conchords, Gaslight Anthem, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, The Bouncing Souls, New Found Glory, A Day to Remember, among others.


Plus…


King Charles III is donning his bravest face as he embarks on a cancer treatment journey, proving that even monarchs aren't immune to life's curveballs.


Switching scenes to the U.S. Supreme Court, where the legal drama over Donald Trump's ballot eligibility turns into an episode of "Law & Order: Presidential Unit." Thanks to a long-forgotten constitutional clause, we're on the edge of our seats waiting to see if insurrection is a no-go for presidential hopefuls.


Plus, a tale of teenage tomfoolery turns serious with a 17-year-old's swatting spree goes awry, a sleep apnea machine is more nightmare than dream-catcher, and more.

Feb 06, 202401:07:26
Trump's Legal Fall and Vince McMahon's Career Stall

Trump's Legal Fall and Vince McMahon's Career Stall

First up, we examine the landmark legal battle involving former President Donald Trump and writer E. Jean Carroll, where Trump is ordered to pay a staggering $83.3 million in defamation damages. We then pivot to the shocking developments in Vince McMahon's career, following serious allegations that have led to his resignation from TKO, and more.

Jan 30, 202401:02:17
Political Retreats, AI Threats, and Medical Feats

Political Retreats, AI Threats, and Medical Feats

A bombshell about AI impacting 40% of jobs and deepening inequality. Plus, more AI news in New Hampshire with a Biden deepfake robocall asking voters not to show up at the polls. And for a dose of hope, we explore a groundbreaking cancer vaccine making strides in clinical trials.

Jan 23, 202401:05:57
Doc Coyle of Bad Wolves and The Latest Headlines

Doc Coyle of Bad Wolves and The Latest Headlines

Guest Doc Coyle from rock group Bad Wolves, and all the latest headlines, including: Adam Schiff's bold plan to transform American democracy and the controversial decision by some states to skip summer food assistance for children.

Jan 16, 202401:36:25
Supreme Decisions, Sky Holes, and Sip Savers

Supreme Decisions, Sky Holes, and Sip Savers

We start at the Supreme Court, where justices are deciding DJT's 2024 ballot fate. 

Then, we're shifting gears to the latest Boeing 737 Max debacle. With a side of the plane missing mid-flight, it's a new take on 'extra legroom.' 

Then, we're stirring into Starbucks' new initiative to get customers to BYOC (Bring Your Own Cup). It's part environmental crusade, part logistical puzzle. How will this play out in the drive-thru line? 

And, we'll delve into the Biden administration's proposed rule change for gig workers. From Uber to DoorDash, the employment landscape might be in for a seismic shift.

Jan 09, 202457:46
Guest: Oxymorrons and More

Guest: Oxymorrons and More

Congress is buzzing about UFOs – sorry, we mean "UAPs" (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena). Chuck Schumer and Senator Mike Rounds are leading the charge to declassify top-secret government UFO files, but it seems like not everyone is on board. 

A wild twist in the saga of conspiracy kingpin Alex Jones. He's offering $55 million to the Sandy Hook families he wronged with his outrageous claims.


Plus, Rudy Giuliani takes another legal hit for his election antics in Georgia, and guests Oxymorrons join the conversation to promote their debut album, Melanin Punk.

Dec 26, 202301:08:28
The Gavel, the Gobble, and the Grand Old Party

The Gavel, the Gobble, and the Grand Old Party

Let's kick off with Donald Trump's legal tango in Colorado, where he dances away with a court win. It's like watching a reality show, but the stakes are actual democracy, and the drama is disappointingly real.

Moving on to the Capitol, where Congress miraculously avoided a government shutdown. It's like watching a group of toddlers successfully bake a cake – messy, surprising, and you're just relieved the house didn't burn down.

And then, there's Joe Biden, hitting 81. In the White House, that's less 'elder statesman' and more 'antique with experience'. It's like your grandfather running a marathon – impressive, but you're slightly concerned for his wellbeing.

Speaking of wellbeing, Trump's health update is in! He's reportedly in excellent health, which, considering his lifestyle, is as baffling as finding out that Bigfoot is not only real but also your pilates instructor.

On to the courts, where the 8th Circuit's decision on the Voting Rights Act has us wondering if they're trying to make legal history or just confuse historians in the future.

Finally, we've got Biden pardoning turkeys, because nothing says 'American politics' quite like sparing two birds from becoming dinner. It's a tradition that's as whimsical as it is utterly, delightfully bizarre.

Nov 21, 202351:18
Testimonies, Trials, and Takedowns

Testimonies, Trials, and Takedowns

We're slicing through the legalese to bring you the skinny on Trump's New York testimony — a spectacle where the only thing shorter than the answers are the judge's patience.

Switching gears, we unpack the saga of Sam Bankman-Fried, the crypto wunderkind turned cautionary tale, whose courtroom drama could fill a ledger thicker than his now-defunct FTX's balance sheets.

And a deep dive into the digital dismantling of a website that's caused quite the stir for House Speaker Mike Johnson.

Nov 07, 202356:15
Johnson's Rise, Powell's Surprise, and Biden's AI Prize

Johnson's Rise, Powell's Surprise, and Biden's AI Prize

This week: Rep. Mike Johnson's ascension to House Speaker — a man so enigmatic, even Russian TV can't resist being charmed. Meanwhile, Trump attorney Sidney Powell's courtroom revelations are serving more twists than a pretzel stand. And, in the realm of tech, President Biden strides forward, laying the groundwork for AI's future — ensuring robots serve us, not the other way around.

Oct 31, 202301:03:04
From Gavel Bangs to Political Twangs: A Symphony of Scandals

From Gavel Bangs to Political Twangs: A Symphony of Scandals

A Federal Judge drops the mic with a sassy gag order on a certain politician.

Rep. Jim Jordan is trying to round up his Republican pals for support, but with Rep. Steve Scalise's unexpected exit stage left, will he hit the right note or fall flat?

George Santos is facing the music. With a whopping 23 charges against him, including the classic hits "Wire Fraud" and "Identity Theft," it seems he's charting on the "Top Legal Troubles" list. But wait, there's a remix - he allegedly fibbed to the Federal Election Commission.

Oct 17, 202355:56
From Mideast Conflict to Courtroom Chaos

From Mideast Conflict to Courtroom Chaos

Guest: BandLab Artist of the Month, When The Sun Sets

Plus: the recent Israel-Gaza conflict took a grim turn as Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, initiated an attack of unparalleled magnitude last Saturday. This offensive is labeled the most devastating Israel has seen in the last half-century. Tragically, over 900 lives in Israel have been lost. Concurrently, the Palestinian territories, including Gaza and the West Bank, report nearly 687 casualties.

In a twist of international espionage and politics, former President Donald Trump's previous sharing of classified intelligence with Russian officials has been spotlighted, especially in light of the recent Hamas assault on Israel. The question lingers: Did Trump's intel leak play a role?

Lastly, we switch gears to Trump's current legal battles. Drawing parallels to the notorious Fyre Festival's strategies, Team Trump appears to be banking on chaos rather than clarity.
Oct 10, 202359:08
Real Estate Roulette, Shutdown Showdown, and Political Puzzles

Real Estate Roulette, Shutdown Showdown, and Political Puzzles

Former President Donald Trump made a courtroom cameo. With hair as defying as his defense, the trial kicked off with potential consequences that could send some of his prized real estate properties into the "you're fired" zone.

The government shutdown is officially...not happening. With a temporary deal in place, they've managed to keep the lights on... at least until November 17th. Consider it the legislative equivalent of "we'll just order pizza for now."

Lastly, the House Republicans seem to be taking notes from 'Game of Thrones' – but with less dragons and more drama. As some plot to oust Matt Gaetz, Gaetz himself is making moves against Kevin McCarthy. Who will remain standing when the music stops?

Oct 04, 202301:01:03
Biden's Bind, Autoworker Uproar, and Gaetz's Governor Gamble

Biden's Bind, Autoworker Uproar, and Gaetz's Governor Gamble

First up, we tackle the curious case of Hunter Biden, who seems to have taken multitasking to a whole new level. He's been indicted for the "possession of a gun while using narcotics." But are the charges bogus?

Next, the "United Auto Workers Strike," where an army of autoworkers is causing quite the commotion. 13,000 workers across GM, and Ford factories are demanding better treatment.

Matt Gaetz is flirting with the idea of running for Florida Governor. Which is odd because he usually only flights with things that are underage.

Sep 19, 202356:17
From Boardroom to Courtroom: Presidential Pit Stops

From Boardroom to Courtroom: Presidential Pit Stops

Trump takes his signature "You're Fired" to new heights with a surrender dance on racketeering charges. 

And speaking of hot seats, Giuliani – yes, "Tough on Crime" Giuliani – is waltzing into a 13-count indictment.

And FUN!!!

Aug 29, 202348:47
Grifts, Gavels, Web Glitches and White House Whispers

Grifts, Gavels, Web Glitches and White House Whispers

"The Blind Side" Revisited: Remember Michael Oher, the NFL giant who became an inspiration on and off the field Theres an update to the story.

Also, Justice and Grifts: Hold onto your gavels as we uncover the controversy surrounding Clarence Thomas. Is he truly "corrupt as hell"?

Then, a Mystery Document Unveiled: Ever had a website glitch reveal more than it should? We're digging into the Georgia court website's accidental slip-up publishing potential Trump charges.


Aug 15, 202359:09
The Commander-in-Controversy, Florida's Classroom Cold War, & Mitch's Unplanned Sing-Along

The Commander-in-Controversy, Florida's Classroom Cold War, & Mitch's Unplanned Sing-Along

First, Trump's latest legal 'oopsie' concerning the 2020 election as he faces indictment number 11,000. Then, we're off to Florida, where the Sunshine State is throwing some serious shade on AP Psychology. Lastly, good ol' Mitch McConnell, got serenaded with a chorus of 'Retire!' during a speech.

Aug 08, 202359:28
Ticketmaster Tango and From Books to Booty Smacks

Ticketmaster Tango and From Books to Booty Smacks

Republican-led states: rolling back the alcohol service age... for teens. Plus, a Houston school district is turning their libraries into disciplinary centers. Shh, no talking or the paddle comes out.

Also, The US Department of Justice is stepping into the spotlight with a potential lawsuit against Live Nation/Ticketmaster. Is it for their outrageous service fees, or are they just mad that they weren't invited to the Taylor Swift concert?

Aug 01, 202355:52
Hollywood Standoffs, Vanishing Debt, and Presidential Powder

Hollywood Standoffs, Vanishing Debt, and Presidential Powder

In Tinseltown, it's lights, camera, and strike! Also, $39 billion in student loans were wiped out, but it’s not what it seems. Plus, some of the white stuff found in The White House. All of that is part of a News Roundup, and then we’ll jump into The Lighter Side.

Jul 19, 202351:57
Supreme Letdown

Supreme Letdown

The Supreme Court concluded the October Term 2022 by issuing its final disappointing decisions. Also, a World Famous INTU “News Roundup.”

Jul 06, 202345:59
Bud Light Busts, Titanic Tumbles, Russian Rumbles, and Billionaire Brawls!

Bud Light Busts, Titanic Tumbles, Russian Rumbles, and Billionaire Brawls!

Bud Light sales have been going down faster than your Wi-Fi during a Netflix binge. The Titanic Five met their oceanic end in an 'instant implosion'. Swinging our attention to Russia, where the Wagner Revolt is stirring up more buzz than a vodka-infused beehive. And brace yourselves, the billionaire brawl we've all been waiting for. Musk and Zuckerberg are now 'dead serious' about fighting in the UFC. I mean, if we can't get a Facebook 'Dislike' button, at least we can potentially see Zuck getting a black eye.

Jun 27, 202301:01:08
The Art of the Steal… of Classified Documents

The Art of the Steal… of Classified Documents

Welp. Someone is facing 37 federal charges. Whoops.
Jun 13, 202354:28
M.A.G.S. and News Roundup

M.A.G.S. and News Roundup

A news roundup of the week’s biggest stories and guest M.A.G.S.

M.A.G.S. stands as the solo alias of Elliott Douglas, an artist originally from Buffalo but now based in Los Angeles. With a remarkable ability to effortlessly traverse various genres, his music effortlessly blends funky garage vibes with refreshing alt-pop melodies that captivate listeners from the get-go.
Jun 06, 202301:06:42
GUEST: Barak Zilberberg for President

GUEST: Barak Zilberberg for President

Las Vegas resident Barak Zilberberg announced his official run for 2024 US Presidency. A self-made entrepreneur, real estate investor and philanthropist, he’s a lifelong Republican out to change the party and move it forward.

Also, the latest in the ongoing George Santos chaos.
May 19, 202301:00:34
Bullets and Ballots: Navigating Gun Violence in America

Bullets and Ballots: Navigating Gun Violence in America

We delve into recent American mass shootings and examine possible solutions to the epidemic. Like the controversial Texas bill proposing to train third graders in the use of battlefield tourniquets. Plus, we examine studies that reveal a correlation between decreased violent crime rates and various gun control measures.

May 09, 202354:13
AI-Apocalypse, Disney VS DeSantis, and The Offspring’s Todd Morse

AI-Apocalypse, Disney VS DeSantis, and The Offspring’s Todd Morse

A pioneering researcher and the so-called “Godfather of AI,” Geoffrey Hinton, quit his role at Google so he could more freely speak about the dangers of AI. Then, the latest in Disney VS. DeSantis. Also, punk rock legend Todd Morse, the bassist for The Offspring, debuts new music.


May 03, 202355:06
Bribes, Badges, and Boot Scootin' Bans

Bribes, Badges, and Boot Scootin' Bans

From Gavels to Gucci….. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas' decades-long luxury gift-gate, sponsored by your friendly GOP mega donor! Then, buckle up for a buddy-cop adventure gone wrong, with two men who dared to open a secret NYPD branch in the Big Apple, all for the Chinese government! And finally, we'll take a trip to Montana, where TikTok dances have been outlawed, and residents are mourning the loss of their 15 seconds of fame.

Apr 18, 202355:36
The Donald's in the Doghouse

The Donald's in the Doghouse

Will the Stormy seas subside, or is this just the first of many legal tsunamis on the horizon? We're navigating the Trump legal monsoon, from Stormy Daniels to Georgia's investigation into Trump's 2020 election interference and his 11,780-vote treasure hunt, to Special Counsel Jack Smith's probe into Trump's classified material handling and potential FBI obstruction.

Apr 05, 202357:06
TikTok Takedown, Idaho's Itchy Trigger Fingers, and Grand Jury Gossip

TikTok Takedown, Idaho's Itchy Trigger Fingers, and Grand Jury Gossip

Imagine a world without viral dance challenges (a tragedy or a blessing?): the unprecedented potential ban on TikTok. And... In Idaho the governor has signed a bill allowing execution by firing squad – a step back in time or an Old West reenactment gone wrong? Then, we sit down for an exclusive interview with a former grand juror in the Southern District of New York, the same district that charged Michael Cohen.


Mar 28, 202356:29
Stormy Days, French Frays, and Anti-Woke Woes

Stormy Days, French Frays, and Anti-Woke Woes

First up, we dive into the Trump Tower of turmoil as The Don faces possible criminal charges in New York for a hush-hush payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. Is this a hailstorm DJT can weather?

Next, we take a trip across the pond to France, where civil unrest is as common as baguettes and berets. Will the French find a way to say "c'est la vie" to the situation?

Finally, we zoom back to the States for a legal showdown in the Sunshine State. A court has rejected Governor Ron DeSantis' Anti-Woke law. Will this ruling stir up a hurricane of controversy?

Mar 21, 202357:56
From Silicon Valley to Silicon Alley-oops

From Silicon Valley to Silicon Alley-oops

With tech startups being one of their main sources of business, the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank has sent shockwaves through the industry.  Looks like tech brows now have to sell their ping pong tables to make rent.

Also, time to trade in the backpack for a briefcase! Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders approved a bill  eliminating a requirement for children under 16 to obtain state documentation in order to work.

Plus, a couple of airplane hacks: how to get an entire row to yourself while also getting the people in front of you to shut the hell up

Mar 14, 202350:29
Fascists, Funnies, and Four-Day Work Weeks

Fascists, Funnies, and Four-Day Work Weeks

Bernie Sanders wants a four-day work week, meanwhile republicans want to make drag shows a felony. Controversial topics making headlines this week, including Tennessee Republicans voting to make drag shows felonies, the cancellation of the iconic comic strip Dilbert, accusations that Florida Governor DeSantis is a dangerous fascist, and Bernie Sanders' advocacy for a four-day work week.

Feb 28, 202356:51
When Fair and Balanced becomes Fibs and Fallacies

When Fair and Balanced becomes Fibs and Fallacies

Dominion Voting Machines is suing Fox News for defamation. Fox News says they're not worried though - they're pretty sure they can find a way to blame it all on Hillary Clinton. Joe Biden visited Ukraine and pledged $500 million in military aid to the country. In response, President Zelensky said, "Wow, that's a lot of money! Do you take Venmo?"

Feb 22, 202352:18
Week of February 13th, 2023

Week of February 13th, 2023

Biden’s student debt relief program may end in the Supreme Court, US shoots down more unidentified objects, and more.

Feb 14, 202357:39
Week of February 6th, 2023

Week of February 6th, 2023

Republicans are blaming Biden for letting a suspected Chinese spy balloon cross into the US. It happened 3 times during the Trump administration. An earthquake rocks Turkey, and more.

Feb 07, 202354:23
Week of January 30th, 2023

Week of January 30th, 2023

The murder of Tyre Nichols, Trump is apparently on legal notice, why conservatives are accusing the Xbox of being woke and more.

Jan 31, 202355:57
Week of January 23rd, 2023

Week of January 23rd, 2023

A look at Biden and Trump’s classified document scandals, how they’re similar and how they’re different. The 50th anniversary of Roe V. Wade and more.

Jan 24, 202356:10
Week of January 9th, 2023

Week of January 9th, 2023

The 118th Congress is now is session... barely. And Rep George Santos is kinda weird. That and more as It's News to Us returns for 2023.

Jan 10, 202355:04
Week of December 12th, 2022

Week of December 12th, 2022

More classified documents found in Trump’s storage unit, Brittney Griner is swapped for a Russian arms dealer, China loosens COVID restrictions, and a Christmas tree falls on mom.

Dec 13, 202257:38
Week of December 5th, 2022

Week of December 5th, 2022

DJT wants to put a stop to that pesky Constitution and more in our News Roundup. Plus, animal attacks and talking dogs.

Dec 06, 202253:28
Week of November 28th, 2022

Week of November 28th, 2022

What’s happening with the protests in China, more unsurprising election wackiness with the GOP, and more

Nov 29, 202255:49
Week of November 14th, 2022

Week of November 14th, 2022

What the results of the midterm elections mean going forward and more.

Nov 15, 202251:12
Week of November 7th, 2022

Week of November 7th, 2022

Inflation is causing everything to rise, except for our wages… go figure. And more!

Nov 08, 202255:52
Week of October 17th, 2022

Week of October 17th, 2022

January 6th hearings update, the latest with student loan forgiveness, a new proposed rule that would turn all Uber and Lyft drivers into employees instead of contractors, and more.

Oct 18, 202259:14
Midterms and Roundup

Midterms and Roundup

A news roundup including an Ukraine update, what’s going on with the 2022 Midterms, and more.

Oct 11, 202255:47
January 6th Update & Midterms

January 6th Update & Midterms

The latest with the January 6th hearings, a look at the upcoming midterms and more.

Sep 27, 202257:20