deGRIFTify

In today's episode Thomas and Joel discuss the Straight of Hormuz and other seaways. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects.   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

Thomas and Joel discuss the recent election in Hungary and its implications. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects.   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

Thomas and Joel discuss the state of President Trump's war on Iran. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

Thomas and Joel discuss the state of President Trump's war on Iran, its objectives, and its outlook. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

Thomas and Joel discuss the recent reassignment of various military assets.  Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

A rambling and by no means exhaustive discussion of ICE, its grifts, its harm to the American public, and its future. Thanks for listening. https://www.ft.com/content/c74170d3-237d-459c-8642-bfd71530897d - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

In today's episode Thomas and Joel discuss the basic tenets of foreign policy in the United States and briefly compare and contrast the present administration's with those of previous Presidents. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

President Trump has lately declared his intention of putting Greenland under US control, one way or another. His reasons for doing so are varied, but the reasoning behind it is related to his view on the balance of trade between the US and foreign countries. In today's episode Thomas and Joel discuss these only subtly related topics. [citations] https://www.piie.com/blogs/realtime-economics/2025/origins-us-trade-deficit-and-futility-tariffs - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg      

Boy howdy, did we ever not see the Trump administration's capture of Maduro coming. In this episode Thomas and Joel assess the geopolitical implications of recent events and speculate what might happen next. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

Thomas and Joel give their predictions for 2026 in this year-end episode. Topics range from Venezuela and Ukraine to more domestic issues. Happy holidays, and thanks for listening! - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects.   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

In today's episode Thomas discusses the so-called K-Shaped Economy and fields a few predictions for 2025. Happy holidays! -   An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

In today's episode Thomas and Joel walk through five conspiracy theories related to recent news and discuss the merits of each.  Thanks for listening. -   An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg        

A brief overview of how No Child Left Behind and the doctrine of Whole Word Reading failed a generation. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects.   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

What is the U.S.'s interest in Venezuela, and why should you care? Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg      

In today's mini episode, Thomas braves the unmedicated pain of a broken toe to highlight three issues among the present mediascape muddle. Which are more distraction than crisis? Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

Thomas and Joel broadly describe voter suppression and discuss some of the methods that have been employed in Texas. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects.   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg      

In this episode Thomas and Joel briefly discuss the history and operation of the American Israeli Political Action Committee. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects.   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

In this episode (recorded 10/20) Thomas and Joel briefly discuss the history of mass protest in America including the recent No Kings protest. Thanks for listening.  - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

In this episode (recorded October 13th) Thomas and Joel discuss recent protests at the ICE facility in Portland, OR. Thanks for listening. -    An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg      

In this mini-episode Thomas and Joel discuss the recent reveal of clandestine CIA operations in Venezuela. Thanks for listening. -   An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

The price of living goes up, while wages remain the same. All the while, the quality of services and entertainment decreases. What's a person to do? Thomas and Joel provide advice and commentary. Thanks for listening. -

In this episode Thomas and Joel discuss two current events - the government's failure to pass a budget and Secretary Hegseth's recent meeting with flag officers of every branch of the military.  Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

Russian drones and MiGs, oh my! On today's episode Thomas and Joel discuss the political motivations for the recent pattern of incursions into European nations' airspace. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects.   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

We're back, after something of a hiatus. In today's episode Thomas and Joel discuss how the Trump administration has been shaping the narrative in two ways. First, relating to recent press releases about autism. Second, by deleting archival information from the internet. Thanks for listening. -   An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects.     [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

Thomas and Joel discuss what kinds of issues and what sorts of messaging could be effective in the lead up to the next presidential election. Thanks for listening. -  An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects.  

Thomas is angry about the recent meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska. We also discuss Democratic messaging and possible paths forward. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

The Trump administration has obtained a green light from the Supreme Court to shutter the Department of Education. In today's episode we talk about what that might mean for you. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

The Trump administration is preparing to gut the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. In today's episode we talk about why we think that's a bad idea.  Thanks for listening. - https://www.nasa.gov/value-of-nasa/  An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

Doing something slightly different, we each picked two pieces of good news that we heard recently and talked about it. Recorded 6/17. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

It's 2025, and we're still talking about Jeffrey Epstein. On today's episode Thomas and Joel chat about why that's good. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects.   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

Some things we hate about the BBB, now that it has been signed into law. This is by no means an exhaustive list and should be considered highlights at best. Thanks for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. "The cold war of the 21st century isn't fought with weapons, and it isn't waged between countries; it's with information, between people. Whether you know it or not, you're already a belligerent! Learn how to cut to the core of the issues, sift through the nonsense, and see what each side's true goals are. And if you think we're wrong, tell us why. We'll tell you why we aren't (unless we are)." - T & J [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

Ages ago (on the 9th of April, 2025) we recorded an unscripted episode about "the American Dream," what it means or ought to mean, whether it exists, and if so, where it can be found. We're hosting it as a very special July 3rd episode, mostly because nothing else we've attempted recently has been passible. Cheers. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. Though no episode of deGRIFTify can really be called scripted, every week Thomas and Joel record a conversation intended to travel to unexpected places. Sometimes these conversations become episodes. The episodes tagged as [unscripted] are the result of this process. We hope that you will enjoy this occasional break from the ordinary pace and structure of your podcast listening, but if you find it not to your liking, then by all means please skip ahead. As always, thank you for listening. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg        

Hot takes and projections in light of the recent American "intervention," plus the usual context and grifts. Thanks for listening. -  An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

Returning to the subject of the war in Ukraine. Thomas gives an overview of modern Ukrainian history and contextualizes the conflict in its context. We tackle several overarching narrative grifts that are pervasive in contemporary coverage of the crisis. As always, thank you for listening. Send your questions, comments, and feedback to [email protected] - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. "The cold war of the 21st century isn't fought with weapons, and it isn't waged between countries; it's with information, between people. Whether you know it or not, you're already a belligerent! Learn how to cut to the core of the issues, sift through the nonsense, and see what each side's true goals are. And if you think we're wrong, tell us why. We'll tell you why we aren't (unless we are)." - T & J [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/  Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg  Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac  Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

Final episode of our congressional grift cycle. Send us stuff at [email protected]. Thanks for listening! Wilson-Hayes matrix https://drive.google.com/file/d/1z7nwk3NzVjai-hQb2k2KiyLLsjGyH0y9/view?usp=sharing -   An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

Working independently, we each came up with five major problems related to the Congressional branch of the government. In this episode we discuss "Gerrymandering," what it is, how it affects you, and to a very limited extent what sort of things might be done about it. Now soliciting feedback, comments, and requests at [email protected]. If there's something you'd like us to cover then ask, and we'll look into it. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [cites] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Budget_Enforcement_Act_of_1990 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jobs_and_Growth_Tax_Relief_Reconciliation_Act_of_2003 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statutory_Pay-As-You-Go_Act_of_2010 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2023_United_States_debt-ceiling_crisis#Agreement [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

Working independently, we each came up with five major problems related to the Congressional branch of the government. In this episode we discuss "Gerrymandering," what it is, how it affects you, and to a very limited extent what sort of things might be done about it. Thomas & Joel's top 5: I. Gerrymandering II. Term limits, "auto-filibuster" III. Insider trading, PAYGO IV. "Nepo-reps," no-tax-increase pledges V. Weakness, tax complexity ratchet - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

The One Big, Beautiful Bill and consequences will be a disaster for (etc.) Recorded 05-22. Catching up on some editing; sorry for the delay.   - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg    

With an initial digression into the latest twist in our collective tariff troubles.  We get numerous dates wrong in this episode, though usually only slightly. Sorry. USA foreign aid data table https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1uBdYn-IWa_WYU-U_zIZmHW3BRRp0u1Xi/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=115775887288997073359&rtpof=true&sd=true  (populated from https://foreignassistance.gov/data) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suez_Crisis  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Six-Day_War  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yom_Kippur_War  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Egypt%E2%80%93Israel_peace_treaty  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yitzhak_Rabin  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Intifada  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Intifada  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AIPAC - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac Transitional sound effects, heavily distorted Robin Huw Bowen - Y Fwyalchen, from the 2015 album Iaith Enaid https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Y_Fwyalchen_-_Robin_Huw_Bowen.ogg  

TL;DR nothing ever happens unless there's mass mobilization.   An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. - "The cold war of the 21st century isn't fought with weapons, and it isn't waged between countries; it's with information, between people. Whether you know it or not, you're already a belligerent! Learn how to cut to the core of the issues, sift through the nonsense, and see what each side's true goals are. And if you think we're wrong, tell us why. We'll tell you why we aren't (unless we are)." - T & J   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac  

What we're expecting, what's coming down the pipe. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. "The cold war of the 21st century isn't fought with weapons, and it isn't waged between countries; it's with information, between people. Whether you know it or not, you're already a belligerent! Learn how to cut to the core of the issues, sift through the nonsense, and see what each side's true goals are. And if you think we're wrong, tell us why. We'll tell you why we aren't (unless we are)." - T & J   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac

A DOGE episode, recorded April 10th.  Though no episode of deGRIFTify can really be called scripted, every week Thomas and Joel record a conversation intended to travel to unexpected places. Sometimes these conversations become episodes. The episodes tagged as [unscripted] are the result of this process. We hope that you will enjoy this occasional break from the ordinary pace and structure of your podcast listening, but if you find it not to your liking, then by all means please skip ahead. As always, thank you for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. "The cold war of the 21st century isn't fought with weapons, and it isn't waged between countries; it's with information, between people. Whether you know it or not, you're already a belligerent! Learn how to cut to the core of the issues, sift through the nonsense, and see what each side's true goals are. And if you think we're wrong, tell us why. We'll tell you why we aren't (unless we are)." - T & J     [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac

Two seemingly unrelated subjects, potentially joined by the question "How's it different when you're rich?" Though no episode of deGRIFTify can really be called scripted, every week Thomas and Joel record a conversation intended to travel to unexpected places. Sometimes these conversations become episodes. The episodes tagged as [unscripted] are the result of this process. We hope that you will enjoy this occasional break from the ordinary pace and structure of your podcast listening, but if you find it not to your liking, then by all means please skip ahead. As always, thank you for listening. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. "The cold war of the 21st century isn't fought with weapons, and it isn't waged between countries; it's with information, between people. Whether you know it or not, you're already a belligerent! Learn how to cut to the core of the issues, sift through the nonsense, and see what each side's true goals are. And if you think we're wrong, tell us why. We'll tell you why we aren't (unless we are)." - T & J     [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac  

Why is soft power in the interest of individual Americans, not just us collectively? What is 'intelligence' in the geopolitical context? These and other questions.   -  An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. "The cold war of the 21st century isn't fought with weapons, and it isn't waged between countries; it's with information, between people. Whether you know it or not, you're already a belligerent! Learn how to cut to the core of the issues, sift through the nonsense, and see what each side's true goals are. And if you think we're wrong, tell us why. We'll tell you why we aren't (unless we are)." - T & J   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac  

Soft Power. What is it good for?  Absolutely...something. - An increasingly complex world is one that is increasingly filled with scams, tricks, and grifts. deGRIFTify is a discussion podcast intended to cut through some of that haze. Hosts Thomas and Joel summarize contemporary issues by identifying hidden interests, highlighting contradicting narratives, and drawing comparisons between familiar and unfamiliar subjects. "The cold war of the 21st century isn't fought with weapons, and it isn't waged between countries; it's with information, between people. Whether you know it or not, you're already a belligerent! Learn how to cut to the core of the issues, sift through the nonsense, and see what each side's true goals are. And if you think we're wrong, tell us why. We'll tell you why we aren't (unless we are)." - T & J   [licensing] https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ Intro, edits in volume only Skimel - Double tracked distorted electric guitar playing chords.ogg https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_tracked_distorted_electric_guitar_playing_chords.ogg Outro, edits in volume only Claude Reid - Acoustic Jazz Quartet no1 (métronome à 100 ) accompagnement.flac https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acoustic_Jazz_Quartet_no1_(m%C3%A9tronome_%C3%A0_100_)_accompagnement.flac