Josh breaks down and reacts to Tucker's strange speech at America Fest 2025. Give a listen.

This time we cover a particularly chaotic week in politics with major news stories abounding. We discuss a horrific massacre of Jews at Bondi Beach in Australia, highlighting the rising antisemitism and tensions in Western countries. We delve into issues of terror, the necessity of a Jewish state, and the shifting discourse around antisemitism and multiculturalism. We also reflect on the legacy of Norman Podhoretz, a shooting at Brown University, the continued immaturity of Candace Owens, and a surprising interview between Susie Wiles and Vanity Fair. Join us as we explore these pressing matters and reaffirm the importance of standing against hatred and embracing courage.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:58 Horrific Antisemitic Massacre in Australia

03:37 Rising Anti-Semitism in the West

05:35 Media and Public Discourse

18:07 The Necessity of Zionism

23:32 Identity and Conflict: Hanukkah Attack

24:09 Nationalism vs. Multiculturalism

25:51 Assimilation Challenges in the West

26:56 Islamic Terrorism and Western Values

28:22 The Double Standards in Cultural Criticism

31:04 Candace Owens' Controversial Statements

33:53 Jewish Identity and Self-Defense

34:12 Trump Administration's Internal Conflicts

37:33 Jewish Pride and Resilience

This week, we break down the latest news, starting with the attempted Netflix–Warner Bros deal and how Paramount has since changed the equation. What does this mean for the future of Hollywood and American culture? Then we reflect on the hypocrisy of Tucker Carlson as he visits Doha and makes a shocking purchase. Listen below. 

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Housekeeping

00:39 Netflix's Attempted Acquisition of Warner Brothers

01:52 Paramount's Counter Moves and Ellison's Involvement

02:51 Netflix's Strategic Position and Market Impact

05:21 Shareholder Dynamics and Potential Outcomes

11:05 Historical Context and Business Strategies

13:25 Cultural Implications of the Merger

18:04 The Future of Hollywood and Media Consumption

20:48 The Downfall of Unified Culture

21:45 Gen Z's Relationship with Social Media

23:39 The Resurgence of Analog Media

25:36 American Involvement in Israeli Politics

26:48 Tucker Carlson's Controversial Visit to Qatar

28:44 The Hypocrisy of Nationalism

33:58 The Luigi Mangione Trial and Other American Issues

36:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This week we discuss the administration’s Venezuela plan. What is going on and why now? And how does it connect to other major immigration stories from the past week? Then we move on to a new poll from the Manhattan Institute that finally gives us some concrete data on what young Republicans are thinking. 

00:00 Welcome and Introduction 

00:38 Venezuela's Political Turmoil

04:54 US Military Operations in South America

06:48 Drug Trafficking and US Policies

16:04 Fraud and Welfare Issues in Minnesota

27:04 Government Intervention and Economic Strain

28:05 Multicultural Challenges and Somali Communities

29:36 The Manhattan Institute Report on the Republican Party

30:24 Key Findings from the new Manhattan Institute GOP Poll

32:13 Young Republicans and Online Radicalization

34:25 Support for Political Violence and Conspiracy Theories

38:29 George W. Bush's Surprising Popularity Among New Republicans

41:30 The Future of Young Republicans and Political Trends

46:43 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

In this week’s episode we dive into the complicated discussions around the leaked 28 point Russian peace deal before analyzing the differences between Russia-Ukraine versus Gaza-Israel. Nathan gives the rundown on the strange happenings of the military attorney general scandal in Israel. And lastly, we muse on the future of the now-almost-former congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene. Give a listen.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:15 Russia-Ukraine Peace Agreement Controversy

03:32 Media's Role in War Perception

05:47 Comparing Israel and Ukraine's War Efforts

09:30 Israel's Legal and Military Challenges

14:40 Controversial Resignation of Israel's Military Attorney General

29:27 The Israeli War and Its Societal Impact

30:35 Mohammed bin Salman's Visit to Washington

31:01 The Abraham Accords and Saudi-Israeli Relations

34:16 US Designation of the Muslim Brotherhood as a Terrorist Organization

36:36 Marjorie Taylor Greene's Resignation and Political Impact

42:14 The Role of Congress and Local Governance

50:35 Trump's Influence and Political Dynamics

55:17 Conspiracy Theories and Anti-Establishment Sentiments

56:18 Concluding Thoughts on Political Developments

This week we reflect on Zohran Mamdani’s victory in the NYC mayoral election. What will he get done? What does this win mean for the future of American politics? What happens to the Jews when everyone on both sides turns against them? Give a listen and don't forget to share.

00:00 Start and Podcast Overview

00:20 Historic Mayoral Election in New York

01:55 Discussion on Socialism and Its Impact

04:50 Challenges and Policies of the New Mayor

08:11 Political Dynamics in New York State

10:29 Cultural and Demographic Shifts in New York

21:04 Global Influence on New York Politics

30:09 The American Dream and Political Rhetoric

30:48 Social Justice versus Resistance 

32:38 Electoral Strategies and Affordability

33:46 Recent Elections and Democratic Strategies

34:45 The Unique Politics of New York City

43:54 The Role of International Issues in Local Politics

47:49 Heritage Foundation and the Continued Carlson/Fuentes Fallout

51:58 Assimilation and American Values

58:39 Concluding Thoughts on Political Divides

This week we dive into significant economic news, starting with the Federal Reserve's recent decision to cut the interest rate, especially considering recent job cuts by major companies. What do the economic woes have to do with Tucker Carlson, Nick Fuentes, Zohran Mamdani, Marx and de Tocqueville? Click play to find out. 

00:20 Federal Reserve Cuts Interest Rates

01:50 Impact of AI on Employment

02:34 Stock Market Concerns and Overvaluation

05:42 Tucker Carlson and Nick Fuentes Discussion

12:44 Rise of Populism and Economic Discontent

14:51 Tucker Carlson's Controversies

20:05 New York Election and Its Implications

22:17 Historical Context of New York Mayoral Elections

22:31 Impact of Winning with Less Than 50%

22:54 Challenges and Expectations for the New Mayor

23:02 Debate on Socialist Policies

23:43 The Future of the Democratic Party

24:06 Radical Ideologies and Their Implications

24:37 Economic Realities and Policy Impacts

40:05 Social Media's Role in Political Polarization

42:12 Concluding Thoughts on American Democracy

We're back! This week we discuss the recent return of the final living Israeli hostages. How President Trump pulled it off, what this means for Israel and what may happen going forward. Plus: did this war put a strain on Jews living abroad?

00:55 Recap of Recent Events in Israel and Gaza

02:36 The Hostage Deal and Ceasefire

07:37 Trump's Role in the Middle East Negotiations

12:53 The Future of Gaza and International Relations

26:31 Challenges and Controversies in the Ceasefire

29:17 The Power of Propaganda in Conflict

31:29 Political Reactions and Public Sentiment

32:48 The Rise of Anti-Zionism in Politics

34:21 Global Anti-Semitism and Historical Context

37:50 The American Jewish Experience

42:48 The Role of Israel in Jewish Identity

45:33 Modern Anti-Semitism and Its Implications

In this episode, we continue with the horrible fallout surrounding the murder of Charlie Kirk, and the roles played by prominent media figures like Candace Owens and Tucker Carlson. We take a philosophical turn, examining the influence of gnosticism on modern politics and the state of public discourse. Take a listen.00:46 Charlie Kirk's Murder: Timeline and Evidence03:29 Conspiracy Theories and Media Reactions06:08 Debates on Charlie Kirk's Legacy13:59 Media Accountability and Independent Journalism20:28 Listener Email: Labels and Political Discourse26:23 Intellectual Rigor in Progressive Ideology27:29 Right-Wing Intellectualism and Media Perception34:09 Gnosticism and Modern Political Thought42:52 Trump's UK Visit and International Politics44:40 Economic Policies and Inflation49:25 Support for Israel Among Gen Z51:12 Concluding Thoughts and Listener Feedback

We reflect on the legacy of Charlie Kirk and what this means for Conservatism and America.

In this episode we start with an overview of the People's Conference for Palestine in Detroit, Hasan Piker being invited to The New Yorker Festival and the Coldplay controversy. What does this all this mean for the future of America and how has social media played a role in creating this culture? Then we continue with some recent moves by Trump and conclude with answering a listener question about the reason for the second amendment today. Take a listen, you don't want to miss this!

00:29 People's Conference for Palestine in Detroit

01:33 Radical Rhetoric and Media Attention

02:10 Why do Westerners Justify Violence?

08:12 Influence of Ideologies and Education

15:04 Mainstreaming Extremist Views like Hasan Piker

20:09 Coldplay and the Impact of Social Media on Public Discourse

34:58 The Peer Pressure Effect of the Internet

35:50 DC Sues Trump Over Police Control

39:30 Trump's Political Strategy and Legal Moves

42:38 US Denies Visa to Palestinian Authority at UN

55:34 The Debate on Gun Laws and the Second Amendment

Today we start with a somber mention of the tragic school shooting in Minneapolis. Moving on to politics, we explore President Trump's controversial recent moves, including potentially removing a Federal Reserve governor, deploying the National Guard in American cities, purchasing shares in Intel, and raiding John Bolton's home. Finally, we touch on international news with Charles Kushner's letter to France regarding antisemitism and end with some lighter commentary on Taylor Swift's engagement and its cultural impact. Join us for a detailed analysis and discussion on these pressing matters and don’t forget to send an email to responsapodcast@gmail.com with any questions or requests! 

00:22 Tragic School Shooting

02:01 Political Violence Must be Condemned 

04:58 Trump's Recent Moves and Federal Reserve Controversy

07:16 Constitutional and Legal Implications

25:05 Trump's Deployment of the National Guard

30:31 Rising Crime in Chicago and State's Rights

31:24 The Precedent of Federal Intervention

33:07 The Insurrection Act and Political Posturing

35:07 Trump's Executive Order on Flag Burning

38:45 Free Speech and Legal Precedents

44:14 Trump's Controversial Moves: Intel and John Bolton

50:15 International Affairs: Charles Kushner and France

52:03 Celebrity Culture: Taylor Swift's Engagement

Today we dive into the Russia-Ukraine peace talks involving Trump, Putin, and Zelensky. We also analyze the NY Times coverage of the Democratic Party's voter registration crisis, exploring why millions are leaving the party for the Republicans. Take a listen now! 

Don’t forget to like, subscribe and leave us a rating. Send us an email at responsapodcast@gmail.com 

00:25 Developing News: Russia-Ukraine Peace Prospects

01:21 Trump's Diplomatic Efforts and European Involvement

02:31 Challenges and Preconditions for Peace Talks

09:39 Historical Context: Russia's Relations with the West

21:21 The Role of NATO and European Security

23:24 The Complexity of National Identities and Statehood

26:52 Reflections on European Defense and Cold War Legacy

31:32 Democratic Party's Voter Registration Crisis

33:33 Ideological Shifts in the Democratic Party

34:25 Republican Party's Diverse Ideological Spectrum

37:09 Trump's Broad Appeal and Normalcy

44:41 Online Influence and Political Perception

50:35 Listener Email and Final Thoughts

In today’s episode, we tackle some of the week’s most consequential, and contentious, stories. First, we break down Prime Minister Netanyahu’s decision to occupy Gaza, unpacking the strategic stakes, the pushback from within Israel, and the backlash abroad. Then, we turn to the rise of right-wing antisemitism and the spread of bizarre conspiracy theories online, tracing the emergence of what we’re calling Critical Religion Theory and how it’s reshaping political discourse. Finally, we examine Donald Trump’s recent moves on the economy, his intervention with the D.C. Police, and his maneuvers involving the Kennedy Center - analyzing the use of executive power to shape politics.

00:21 Netanyahu's Decision to Occupy Gaza

02:00 Historical Context and Military Operations

03:25 Global and Domestic Reactions

04:58 The Greater Israel Plan Debate

06:55 Challenges and Criticisms of Netanyahu's Leadership

10:58 Josh's Commentary Magazine Article | Critical Religion Theory 

11:20 Rise of Right-Wing Conspiracy Theories

12:11 Tucker Carlson and Online Influence

13:47 Critical Religion Theory Explained

21:59 Infighting Among Right-Wing Figures

30:21 Nick Fuentes, Conspiracy Logic and is Tucker Carlson isolated? 

33:22 Trump and the Federal Reserve

38:15 Trump's Tariff Policies

43:04 Trump's Use of Executive Power

51:59 Trump decides to host the Kennedy Center Awards

In this episode we delve into two major news stories. First, the recent tragic shooting in Manhattan and what this means for the future of America’s cities. Moving on, we address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, debating the complex issues of aid distribution, media portrayal, and international political reactions. How does the media lie and what does Israel do moving forward? And is there a connection between Sydney Sweeney and Israel?? Take a listen. 

00:27 Breaking News: Manhattan Shooting Incident

08:57 Mental Health and Policy Changes

10:20 Trump's Executive Order on Involuntary Commitment

15:59 Gaza Famine Reports and Media Coverage

30:25 Political Reactions and International Implications

36:58 France's Limited Leverage in the Israel-Hamas Conflict

37:22 Israel's Political Capital and the Gaza War

38:42 Contradictions in Civilian Movement and War Ethics

39:12 Hamas and the Misuse of Humanitarian Aid

39:53 International Responses and Misconceptions

43:22 Media Influence and the CNN Effect

47:12 Historical Context and the Two-State Solution

52:39 Media Bias and the Perception of Israel

01:02:01 Thoughts on Israel's Position

01:05 Is Sydney Sweeney a Nazi? 

In this episode we dive into current events about the Federal Reserve and Jerome Powell’s tensions with  President Trump. We discuss how independent agencies act outside the power of checks and balances. 

We also covers the geopolitical crisis in Syria, focusing on the Druze community, and Israel’s strategic and humanitarian response. 

We then delve into a meta-discussion on Issues of deep state influence, independent agencies, what happens when protests are fake, the hypocrisy of human rights NGO’s and some conspiracy theory fun! Take a listen. 

Send an email to responsapodcast@gmail.com 

00:22 Federal Reserve and Jerome Powell's Controversies

01:50 Constitutional Background and Federal Reserve Independence

02:39 Executive Power and Historical Context

06:50 Federal Reserve's Dual Role and Historical Policies

16:20 Trump's Influence and Federal Reserve's Independence

19:10 Centralized Banking and Historical Comparisons

30:33 Israel and Syria Discussion

35:18 The Role of Protests and Social Media Manipulation

37:32 The Fake Generational Divide in American Jewry

40:29 US Influence on Israeli Politics

43:00 The Syrian Conflict and Israel's Strategic Interests

52:28 Supreme Court Cases Impacting American Society

58:48 Conspiracy Theories and Anti-Orwellian Wins 

In this episode of the Response Podcast, Josh and Nathan delve into the latest controversies and conspiracy theories surrounding the recently released Jeffrey Epstein files. They discuss the promises made by the Trump administration for government transparency and the resulting disappointment when the files revealed nothing new.

The conversation shifts to broader implications, exploring how conspiracy theories, such as those involving the Mossad, arise in environments of mistrust towards political elites. The hosts examine how both right-wing and left-wing populism have contributed to a fragmented American political landscape.

Additionally, the podcast covers recent political developments in Israel, including the potential collapse of Netanyahu's coalition over draft laws, and discusses the impact of international diplomacy between Israel, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.

Finally, they touch on the current economic climate, including Trump's new executive order to allow private equity investments in 401(k) plans.

Send an email to responsapodcast@gmail.com with questions and comments! 01:00 Epstein Files and Government Transparency03:18 Turning Point USA and Conservative Movement05:36 Pam Bondi's Role and Public Reaction08:33 Conspiracy Theories and Social Media Influence10:01 Deep State and Government Accountability11:10 Mossad Theories and Epstein Connections19:40 Populism, Elites, and Political Philosophy34:15 The Impact of Conspiracy Theories35:01 Foreign Influence and Misinformation36:33 Qatar's Role in Spreading Conspiracy Theories37:43 The Elite's Credibility Crisis39:26 The Role of Social Media in Misinformation40:47 Historical Context of Ideological Subversion45:11 The Left vs. Right Elite Debate46:31 The Populist Ideology and Its Consequences48:34 The Future of American Society58:22 Current Events in Israel01:08:19 Economic News and Policies

In this episode of the Responsa Podcast, hosts Josh Appel and Nathan Meyer delve into the recent political developments including the passage of Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill'. This landmark legislation, which passed on July 4th, brings massive tax cuts extending the Trump 2017 tax cuts, increased standard deductions, higher SALT deductions, and significant tax benefits for social security payers. The bill sparks discussions on its potential to increase America's debt and criticisms about its fiscal responsibility. We also covers Elon Musk's announcement to spearhead a new political movement, the America Party, in response to Trump's policies. 

Shifting to Middle Eastern politics, we analyze the implications of Prime Minister Netanyahu's negotiations in Washington regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict, highlighting the debates over hostages and the future of Hamas. We touch on emerging dialogues between Israeli officials and West Bank Sheikhs as a new potential political reorganization for Palestinian representation. Additionally, discussion about Western perceptions, anti-Semitism, and the implications of Elon Musk's AI tool, Grok, becoming a platform for extremist views. 

Please send all comments and questions to responsapodcast@gmail.com 

Check out Josh’s Law and Liberty article here: https://lawliberty.org/what-to-do-when-you-win/

00:17 Overview of the Big Beautiful Bill

00:41 Provisions and Implications of the Bill

02:49 Criticisms and Political Reactions

06:46 Elon Musk's New Political Party

07:25 Fiscal Responsibility and Debt Concerns

17:50 Tariffs and Trade Policies

22:51 Israel and Middle East Politics

34:16 Rubble and Diplomacy: The Palestinian Conflict

35:24 Sanctions on Francesca Albanese

36:24 New Discussions: Israeli and Palestinian Leadership

37:25 Historical Context and Radicalization

38:49 Arab Leaders' Shift in Perspective

42:14 Debating the Future of Palestinian Leadership

45:35 Western Influence and Orientalism

56:59 Grok Controversies and Antisemitism

In this episode of the Responsa Podcast, hosts Josh Appel and Nathan Meyer discuss the concerning decline in American patriotism based on recent polls. The conversation delves into various factors contributing to this trend, including historical shifts, cultural changes, and economic disparities. They examine the impacts of university education, the influence of radical progressivism, and the aftermath of foreign policy failures. Additionally, the hosts explore the nuanced perspectives of both political left and right regarding national pride and identity. The episode concludes with a reflection on the balance between America as an idea and as a nation, followed by a book recommendation that further explores these themes.

For questions, comments and requests please send an email to responsapodcast@gmail.com

00:47 Decline in American Pride

03:02 Historical Perspectives on National Pride

04:28 Influence of Universities and Cultural Shifts

06:24 Impact of the 1960s and Vietnam War

24:21 Cultural Elitism and Historical Comparisons

28:25 The Cultural Revolution and American Parallels

29:46 American Self-Doubt and Right-Wing Critique

30:59 The American Idea and Its Evolution

36:40 Economic and Political Shifts in America

44:43 The Rise of Conspiracy Theories

48:19 The Debate on American Identity

54:03 Book Recommendation: Why Liberalism Failed

In this episode of the Responsa podcast, hosts Nathan Meyer and Josh Appel discuss the unexpected victory of 33-year-old socialist assemblyman Zoran Momani in the Democratic primary for New York's mayoral race, defeating front-runner Andrew Cuomo. They delve into Momani's socialist platform, the implications for New Yorkers, and his views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The conversation then shifts to America's recent strike on Iran's nuclear facilities, the subsequent ceasefire, and the mixed reactions from key political commentators like Tucker Carlson and Candace Owens. Further, they examine the broader geopolitical implications of the strike and its impact on American foreign policy, the Middle East, and Trump's political stance. The episode concludes with an analysis of how social media influences modern politics and the media landscape.00:37 Zohran Mamdani's Shocking Victory01:59 The Implications of a Socialist Mayor06:06 The Role of Social Media in Politics17:43 Zoran's Controversial Views on Israel22:01 The Future of New York Under Zoran37:33 Developments in Iran and US Involvement39:07 Debate on the Success of the Strike40:11 Trump's Political Maneuvering41:16 Ceasefire and Israeli Strategy45:21 Impact on Middle East Relations48:59 American Influence and Global Perspective51:36 Controversial Reactions and Media Response52:54 Tucker Carlson's Criticism59:53 Antisemitism and Media Influence