The "What's Going On?" Podcast

Send a textThe fellows debate the U.S. becoming more deeply involved in a Middle East conflict, calling it a “war of choice” tied to Israel and pointing to shifting official explanations. They connect today’s tensions to U.S. history in Iran, arguing that democracy requires participation and that non-participation has enabled fascism and weakened checks on presidential power, with Republicans and the courts failing to restrain Trump. The conversation covers naval attacks, drone strikes, evacuations, embassy closures, and plans to ramp up wartime production, along with concerns about rising gas and food prices, global isolation, and the risk of wider escalation involving China or North Korea. They also raise fears of terrorism, possible nuclear use, a return of the draft, and war being used to disrupt midterms.Support the show

Send a textFellows React to Trump’s State of the Union: Decorum, Lies, Voting Restrictions, and the Fragility of DemocracyThe fellows discuss President Donald Trump’s State of the Union as a hype-filled production marked by lies, name-calling, and grandstanding, criticizing Republicans as complicit, fearful puppets who have ceded power to Trump. They debate whether Democrats should maintain decorum or forcefully confront falsehoods, citing past breaches like the Obama-era “you lie” incident and supporting recent outbursts and protest signs such as Al Green’s. The group condemns Trump’s posts and rhetoric, argues he is pushing stricter voting rules and attacking mail-in voting despite numerous failed lawsuits, and warns democracy is fragile, noting claims that 72% of the world lives under authoritarian rule. They express concern over expanded detention and immigration enforcement, urge organizing beyond voting, demand accountability, and emphasize activism and protecting democracy ahead of the midterms.Support the show

Send a textThe Impact of Inflation on Everyday Life | What's Going On PodcastIn this week's episode, hosts Mike and Tom dive into the effects of inflation on utilities, healthcare, and energy costs, highlighting the struggles of lower-income families. They also explore issues of housing affordability, including the rising costs of building homes and the disparity between wages and housing prices. The duo shares insights on post-COVID economic pressures, increased tariffs, and the challenges of the labor market. Tune in for an engaging discussion on how inflation is shaping our economy.Support the show

Send a text This week’s conversation centers around the Federal Agents in Minneapolis who shot and killed Alex Pretti. The fellas again discuss Trigger Happy Policing as they describe the Agents' actions. They discuss how the Trump Administration immediately sought to make the narrative its own.  They discuss the Administration's hypocrisy on the Second Amendment and the Federal Agent’s lack of compassion.Support the show

Send a textIn this episode, Keith, Mike, and Tom engage in a lively and passionate discussion about the New World Order, focusing specifically on Canada's Prime Minister's speech at the World Economic Forum. They start the episode by discussing the possibility of internet blackouts in the United States. The episode ends with Mike sharing a relatable story from his high school days and how the importance of self-confidence and the value of always doing your best will prepare you for life’s challenges ahead.https://youtu.be/flsgJe8mN-A?si=k96ef2TEiqzZ_kcuSupport the show

Send a textIn this episode, Keith, Mike, and Tom engage in a spirited discussion about police conduct and training, focusing on a specific shooting involving an ICE officer and a woman named Renee Good. They agree that the shooting was a result of trigger-happy policing and poor adherence to standard law enforcement protocols and criticize the media and the Trump Administration for their portrayal of the incident. The conversation also touches on the importance of independent thought, the dangers of media control, and the value of math education in developing critical thinking skills. The hosts conclude by calling on parents to prioritize math education to help their children develop logical problem-solving skills.Support the show

Send a textEconomic Impact of Inflation and Tariffs: What's Going On?In this episode of the What's Going On Podcast, the hosts discuss the state of the economy, focusing on the effects of inflation and tariffs on the prices of everyday goods. They reflect on the phrase 'It's the economy, stupid' from Bill Clinton's 1992 campaign and its relevance today. The conversation dives into personal experiences with rising grocery prices and the broader implications for the average household. The hosts critique the current administration's handling of tariffs and discuss potential political strategies for the upcoming elections. They also touch on the concept of a 50-year mortgage, fast food economics, and introduce the term 'K economy' for future exploration. Join the conversation and stay informed about the economic issues impacting your life.Support the show

Send a textUS Insurrection Act, Social Tensions, & Jay-Z's Super Bowl Strategy | What's Going On PodcastThis week's episode delves into the implications of Trump's administration policies, military deployments, and the impact of government shutdowns on citizens. The discussion covers the government's fascist tendencies, a debated gun-related incident in Dearborn, Michigan, and the potential for uprisings and insurrections in the current political climate. The group also touches upon Jay-Z's efforts to give a voice to underserved communities through his selection of artists like Bad Bunny for major events, and the economics behind performance exposures. The conversation wraps up with insights into the Insurrection Act of 1807 and its modern relevance, emphasizing the deployment of military forces during civil unrest. Lastly, the episode hints at the increasing encroachment on civil liberties and speculates on future political upheavals.Support the show

Send a textGambling Scandal, Government Shutdown, and the State of America | What's Going On PodcastIn this week's episode, Keith, Mike, and Tom, engage in a dynamic discussion covering multiple topics. They examine a recent gambling scandal involving NBA figures like Chauncey Billups and the broader implications of this controversy. Additionally, they discuss the ongoing government shutdown, its impact on American workers, and the potential long-term consequences. The hosts also touch on the effectiveness of recent protests and the challenges of political gerrymandering. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of current events and their ramifications on society.Support the show

Send a textFrom Sports Recaps to Political Debates: Michigan's Looming Gubernatorial Race & Social IssuesIn this week's episode, Keith, Michael, and Tom cover a wide range of topics, kicking off with a detailed discussion of the Detroit Tigers' performance in the ALDS and their prospects for next season. The conversation then shifts to the 2026 Michigan gubernatorial race, examining potential candidates like Lieutenant Governor Garland Gilchrist, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, and former Mayor Mike Duggan. Broader national issues are also touched upon, including the ongoing federal government shutdown, a controversial police raid in Chicago, and the implications of nationalism and civil unrest. The trio further explores advocacy and protest efforts against authoritarianism in Michigan. Tune in for a lively and informative discussion on sports, politics, and social issues.Support the show

Send a textKeith, Mike, and Tom dive into a lively discussion covering the Detroit Tigers' current state, including AJ's management style and the team's performance. They then shift focus to the Detroit Lions' recent games and playoff prospects, expressing cautious optimism. The conversation later transitions to the Detroit Pistons' upcoming basketball season and the challenges in the NBA. Additionally, the trio critically analyzes the contentious topic of Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance amidst political and cultural controversies. Conversations on the implications of the ongoing government shutdown and healthcare subsidies provide a socio-political angle, while a final segment delves into the impact of cell phones and social media on students' education and development.Support the show

Send a textWide-Ranging Discussions: Current Events, Sports, and H-1B Visa ControversiesIn this episode, Mike and Tom, joined by guest Waymund Hicks, delve into various pressing topics, starting with a local and national tragedy—the church shooting in Grand Blanc, Michigan. They criticize the President's reaction and commend local leadership in Michigan. The discussion transitions to sports, highlighting the Detroit Lions' season and the Detroit Tigers' postseason challenges. They then explore the financial and ethical complexities surrounding H-1B visas, including the impact on domestic and international workers. Other topics include potential government shutdowns, the impact of materialism on children, and the influence of social media and AI. The episode concludes with reflections on the broader implications of these issues, particularly the rise of fascism and its historical context.Support the show

Send a textIn this week's episode, the fellows dive deep into the Project 2025 and its implications for American democracy, especially in light of the recent shooting of Charlie Kirk. They explore Kirk's extreme right-wing views, media and political reactions, and broader social issues like the rise of fascism, systematic racism, and political divisiveness. The conversation touches on the execution of Project 2025 and its potential for civil unrest, expressing frustration with current leadership while stressing the importance of maintaining democratic principles. Join Keith, Mike, and Tom as they navigate through the complex political landscape and share their thoughts on the future of American democracy.Support the show

Send a textThis episode is a blend of sports, social issues, and education, providing a thought-provoking dialogue.They discuss the NFL careers of Shedeur and Shiloh Sanders, touching on the challenges and biases they face and the Manning family's legacy. The conversation takes a deeper turn as the trio examine issues of racial bias and opportunities in the NFL, paralleling it with past events involving Colin Kaepernick. Switching gears, the hosts explore the recent controversy in tennis involving Taylor Townsend and her opponent's post-match comments. They discuss the emotional toll on athletes and the pressures they face in high-stakes gamesFurthermore, they explore the impact of tariffs on inflation and the broader implications for the economy.Finally, the episode takes a look at Tom's journey as a substitute PE teacher and his efforts to engage students in activities like tennis and swimming. Join the insightful and diverse conversation in this thought-provoking episode!Support the show

Send a textIn this episode, Keith, Mike, and myself discuss recent developments with the National Guard in Washington DC, the potential for civil unrest, and the erosion of democratic norms. They draw parallels with historical events, such as the Kent State shootings and fascism in 1939 Germany. They also touch on the economic impact of high-priced sports subscriptions and reflect on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Lastly, they debate the relevance of Dr. Seuss books in modern children's literature and highlight the importance of diverse representation in children’s literature. Join the passionate discussion as the hosts navigate these complex and thought-provoking topics.Support the show

Send a textAnalyzing the Detroit Mayoral Election: Sheffield vs. Kinloch | What's Going On PodcastIn this episode of the What's Going On Podcast, hosts Thomas Corley, Keith Pickens, and Michael Miller dive into the intricacies of the upcoming Detroit mayoral election. They discuss the rise of two main contenders: seasoned politician Mary Sheffield, who finished the primaries with 51% of the vote, and Pastor Solomon Kinloch, who garnered 17%. The team explores Kinloch's challenges in gaining political and financial support while navigating Sheffield's political advantages. The conversation covers voter trust, turnout, community demographics, the role of corruption in politics, and the importance of voter participation. Featuring local insights and national comparisons, this episode provides a robust analysis of the election dynamics in Detroit. Don't miss it!Support the show

Send a textIn this episode of the What's Going On podcast, hosts Thomas Corley, Keith Pickens, and Michael Miller engage in an animated discussion about legendary Detroit sports figures, including Tommy Hitman Hearns, Willie Horton, and Dave Bing. They debate the toughest sport, considering contenders like boxing, football, and triathlons. The conversation turns to contemporary issues, focusing on the impact and fairness of transgender athletes competing in gender-specific categories. This episode mixes nostalgia, sports admiration, and hot-button topics in a barbershop-style conversation.Support the show

Send a textIn this week's episode of the What's Going On Podcast, hosts Thomas Corley, Keith Pickens, and Michael Miller delve into the perceived weaknesses of the Democratic Party and their use of media. The discussion highlights how Democrats need to strengthen their message to counter the Republicans, especially under Donald Trump's influence. The second part of the episode shifts focus to the 'Save the Children's' segment, where the hosts share personal insights on teen mental health, emphasizing the importance of parental guidance and communication in today's digital age.Support the show

Send a textAnalyzing the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' and Its ImpactIn this episode of the What's Going On podcast, hosts Thomas Corley, Keith Pickens, and Mike Miller delve into the effects and controversies surrounding the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' recently signed into law by President Donald J. Trump. The hosts discuss the bill's provisions, including changes to the child tax credit, standard deductions, and its anticipated impact on Medicaid and SNAP. They also cover broader issues like immigration, border security, and clean energy policies. Tune in to hear their insights, opinions, and some startling projections about the future.Support the show

Send a textJoin Thomas Corley, Keith Pickens, and Michael Miller in the latest episode of The 'What's Going On' podcast, where they dive deep into the US foreign policy, specifically focusing on the military actions in the Israel-Iran conflict. They scrutinize the rationale behind America's involvement and its broader implications on global peace and security. The discussion then shifts to the conditions in Gaza and the international community's response, posing questions about humanitarian responsibilities. To conclude, the 'Save the Children' segment emphasizes the importance of educating future generations about democratic values, civic responsibilities, and fostering inclusive, non-divisive relationships. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation that's sure to make you reflect on today's pressing issues.Support the show

Send a textJoin Thomas Corley, Keith Pickens, and Michael Miller on the What's Going On Podcast as they explore the significance of Juneteenth, its historical context, and personal experiences of celebrating this vital part of American history. The Fellas Conversation also delves into the conflict in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of democracy and the role of participation among young people. Tune in for informative discussions and heartfelt insights.Support the show

Send a textJoin Thomas Corley, Keith Pickens, and Mike Miller in this episode of the What's Going On podcast as they discuss the 2025 NBA Finals featuring the next generation of superstars and the transition of power in the league. They delve into the controversy around peaceful protests in LA versus insurrection and emphasize the importance of democracy. The conversation also highlights Coco Gauff's influence on young tennis players and the importance of community programs in fostering talent. Tune in to stay informed and inspired!Support the show

Send a textJoin hosts Thomas Corley, Keith Pickens, and Mike Miller in this week's episode of the What's Going On Podcast as they delve into pressing issues. The discussion kicks off with Tulsa Mayor's announcement of a $105 million reparations plan for the descendants of the 1921 race massacre. The hosts then shift focus to the Department of Justice's current challenges under the Trump administration, highlighting concerns around its transformation and weaponization. The episode concludes with an in-depth conversation about Michigan's educational system, tackling low state rankings in reading and math, and potential strategies to improve them. Tune in for insightful perspectives on these critical topics.https://nextcity.org/urbanist-news/the-weekly-wrap-tulsa-105-million-reparations-planhttps://www.npr.org/2025/05/19/g-s1-66906/trump-civil-rights-justice-exodushttps://www.detroitchamber.com/mackinac-policy-conference/2025-mackinac-policy-conference/2025-agenda/#wednesday-agendaSupport the show

Send a textThe Official - TrailerMuch like Marvin Gaye's 'What's Going On' album from 1971. This stream of consciousness will cover politics, music, sports, and culture. Each episode includes segments like 'Make Me Wanna Holler', where we delve into world or local matters that concern the team, and 'Save the Children', focusing on impactful subjects for young people. Think of casual, relatable discussions you’d overhear in a barbershop. Our podcast delivers commentary with a non-pundit vibe.Hosted by Thomas Corley, Keith Pickens, and Michael Miller. Welcome to the What's Going On Podcast.Support the show