How Matt and Shane’s Secret Podcast Mixes Comedy and Politics

Republican and Democrat politicians yelling at each other in a debate.

Does comedy belong in politics? How do comedians handle real-world affairs? In an episode of Matt and Shane’s Secret Podcast, co-hosts Matt McCusker and Shane Gillis discuss interweaving political topics into their comedic routines. They also note how some politicians used the COVID-19 pandemic as a campaign tool. Continue reading to learn more about comedy and politics intermixing.

What the Houthi Red Sea Attacks Mean for Global Trade

A cargo ship parting the ocean.

What do the Houthi Red Sea attacks mean for global trade? What sparked the attacks? Will there be long-term effects on the world economy? Houthi rebels’ targeted attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea have disrupted one of the world’s busiest trade routes. To avoid the assaults, more commercial vessels are taking detours, which is raising shippers’ operational costs and disrupting the global supply chain. Keep reading for a background on the Houthi attacks and how they may affect the world economy.

Vivek Ramaswamy’s Political Positions: From Curiosity to Creed

Vivek Ramaswamy speaking on stage at an event.

Is Vivek Ramaswamy a libertarian? How have his political positions changed over time? What influenced them? In an episode of The Shawn Ryan Show podcast, Vivek Ramaswamy discussed the background that helped shape his political positions. He also talked about where he stands on the issues now and what he would do as president. Keep reading for an overview of Vivek Ramaswamy’s political positions.

Why Political Predictions Shouldn’t Be Made From Polls

An image of a presidential candidate below "Who will you vote for" on a smartphone.

How useful are political polls if you’re trying to make election predictions? What else can be learned from them? Political polls collect information on how Americans are thinking about political issues and candidates. However, they should be taken with a grain of salt, as results aren’t always accurate. Here’s a look at the usefulness of polls when making political predictions.

The World Economic Forum 2024: Takeaways & Critiques

The logo for the World Economic Forum.

What was discussed at the World Economic Forum 2024? What are the biggest critiques around the gathering of elites? In January, global leaders in the public and private sectors converged at the World Economic Forum in Davos Switzerland to talk about issues like the economy, geopolitical conflicts, and the environment. While it’s brought about some meaningful change, its participants are often skittish around sensitive topics. Here’s a background on what Davos is and this year’s key takeaways.

The Rise of the Religious Right in America (Kristin Du Mez)

The sun beaming on the Christian cross and the American flag.

How are the election and presidency of Ronald Reagan connected to American Christianity? Who popularized the religious right? In Jesus and John Wayne, history and gender studies professor Kristin Du Mez traces the link between politics and evangelical Christianity in America. She lays out the roots of the religious right and how it entered the mainstream in the 1980s. Continue reading to learn about the rise of the religious right in America.

Trump and Christianity: Why Did Evangelicals Elect Him?

Trump and Christianity: Why Did Evangelicals Elect Him?

What’s the relationship between Donald Trump and Christianity—especially evangelicalism? Why do so many Christians endorse him? In Jesus and John Wayne, Kristin Du Mez traces the development of evangelicals’ conception of masculinity since the 1900s, outlining how the genteel masculinity of Victorian-era Christianity transformed into the militaristic masculinity that led evangelicals to embrace Trump wholeheartedly. Read more to get Du Mez’s take on the intriguing link between Donald Trump and Christianity.

What Are Elon Musk’s Political Beliefs? Breaking Them Down

What Are Elon Musk’s Political Beliefs? Breaking Them Down

What are Elon Musk’s political beliefs? Why does Musk criticize “woke culture”? On the Lex Fridman Podcast, Elon Musk discusses his views on modern politics and the current war between Ukraine and Russia. He also clarifies his political identity, citing both conservative and liberal views as inspiration. Continue reading to learn more about Musk’s views on important political topics in the world.

NPR: Netanyahu Sticks to Gaza Mission Amid Harsh Realities

NPR: Netanyahu Sticks to Gaza Mission Amid Harsh Realities

What does Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu say about Israel’s presence in Gaza? What are the consequences for Gaza’s civilian population as a result of the Israeli military activities? On NPR, Netanyahu discussed his commitment to Israel’s mission in Gaza. The NPR News Now episode also explored the impacts of Israel’s persistent military presence in Gaza and the critical consequences for Gaza’s civilian population, with high casualty counts and resource limitations adding to their plight. Continue reading for a summary of this podcast episode from NPR News Now.