Jess & John Pod

In this episode, Jess and John discuss the impact of climate disasters on local communities, emphasizing the importance of mutual aid in times of crisis. They share personal experiences from recent flooding in West Virginia and the formation of mutual aid networks to support affected individuals. The conversation also touches on John's Emmy win for a documentary piece, the political landscape in America, and the rise of Zohran Mamdani as a significant political figure. They explore the implications of wealth inequality and the recent Big Beautiful Legislation, highlighting the need for systemic change and community solidarity.

Jessica Burbank and John Russell go over the best memes and reactions from the Elon Musk-Donald Trump break up.Follow us:@jessandjohnpod

Jessica Burbank and John Russell interview content creator and traveling nurse, Alexis Hinkley. She shares her journey from a privileged upbringing in Issaquah, Washington, to becoming a frontline healthcare worker. She discusses the challenges faced by nurses, the impact of COVID-19, and the systemic issues within the American healthcare system, including the lack of unions and the influence of insurance companies. Alexis emphasizes the need for universal healthcare and highlights the importance of community support and empathy in addressing societal inequalities.Follow her work at https://www.tiktok.com/@travelingnurseHosts: Jessica Burbank and John RussellProducer: Gabi SchulteFollow @jessandjohnpod

Is America heading for a class war—or a political awakening?In this episode of The Jess and John Podcast, the hosts break down the growing class divide in America, sparked by the controversial Big Beautiful Legislation (BBL) and its impact on social services. They tackle the aging leadership of the Democratic Party, why youth engagement is more urgent than ever, and what the latest polling in Iowa reveals about the rise of populist candidates.From the Israel-Palestine conflict to punk rock backyard shows by the All-American Rejects, this conversation connects politics, culture, and the power of grassroots movements in shaping the future.Watch and share!Follow us at:jessandjohnpod.substack.com@jessandjohnpod

In this episode of the Jess and John pod, hosts Jess and John discuss various topics including the Luigi Mangione case, cultural trends like recession hair, the dynamics within the Democratic Party highlighted by David Hogg's situation, and the need for a labor party in America. They also critique Pete Buttigieg's political positioning and the broader implications of wealth distribution in the current political landscape. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of government bureaucracy, the political will needed to address societal issues, and the erosion of rights under the current administration. They discuss the implications of white supremacy in immigration policies, the corruption within the Trump administration, and the absurdity of reality TV politics. The conversation culminates in a critique of FEMA's new direction and the potential consequences of these changes on disaster response.Follow us at jessandjohnpod.substack.com

EXCLUSIVE: Jessica Burbank sits down with Nathan Sage, who is stepping up as the Democratic challenger to take on Republican Sen. Joni Ernst in her bid for a third term. He talks about his working class roots and his path to to the campaign trail.Learn more @jessandjohnpod

Jess and John discuss the news of the day plus, Jess talks with co-founder of the Student Debt Collective, Astra Taylor, about student debt, economic populism, and the fight for public education as a basic right.Learn more: debtcollective.org

Join Jessica Burbank and John Russell for a special May Day episode where they talk with "Big Friggin" Mike Francingue and Eric Blanc about labor politics in today's anti-worker environment.You can find more from Mike Francingue on TikTok @michaelfrancingue and from Eric Blanc at https://www.laborpolitics.com/Episode is produced by: Gabi SchulteOpen animation and logo design by: Biso Sarraf

Jess & John react to this week's biggest news stories, including the alleged arrest of a Wisconsin judge, accused by the FBI of obstructing an ICE arrest.Show notes:https://www.axios.com/2025/04/25/fbi-arrests-judge-wisconsin-hannah-dugan-kash-patelhttps://generalstrikeus.com/https://www.theholler.co/p/34000-showed-up-for-bernie-and-aoc?r=4pli8t&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

Jessica Burbank and John Russell react to the news of the week. Plus interview with journalist Jose Olivares explains recent reporting that a secret deal with Bukele is allegedly driving Trump’s surge in El Salvador deportations.Read here: https://www.dropsitenews.com/p/secret-bukele-trump-deal-grenasProduced by: Gabi SchulteIntro animation by: Biso SaraffChapters:00:00 Introduction to the Class Divide Podcast06:06 The Rise of Fascism and Political Response09:59 The Role of Journalism in the Current Climate13:59 Tech Monopolies and Antitrust Cases20:26 Antitrust Leadership and Corporate Influence25:36 The State of American Capitalism31:04 Emerging Political Candidates in the Midwest39:36 Challenges for Democratic Candidates in Iowa41:59 The Future of the Democratic Party: A Working-Class Agenda45:01 Iowa's Unique Political Landscape and Voter Expectations48:02 Candidate Introductions: Abdul Al-Sayed's Vision51:00 Healthcare and Economic Insecurity: A Call to Action53:53 The Role of Celebrity Culture in Politics01:00:06 Critique of Billionaire Culture01:01:57 Harvard's Prestige and Cultural Impact01:03:10 Free Speech and University Accountability01:06:27 The Role of Harvard in Political Resistance01:08:49 Introduction to Jose Olivares and El Salvador's Situation01:09:11 Human Rights Abuses in El Salvador01:10:07 Conditions in Bukele's Prisons01:12:50 Due Process and Immigrant Rights01:14:01 Political Implications of Immigrant Detention01:15:28 The Future of Immigration Policy01:19:12 The State Secrets Privilege and National Security Negotiations01:20:07 The Security State Post 9/11 and Domestic Surveillance01:21:02 Bukele's Anti-Gang Crusade: Political Theater or Reality?01:22:58 Negotiations with MS-13: The Dark Side of Bukele's Governance01:24:44 The Fallout of Bukele's Pact with MS-1301:26:09 Extradition and Corruption: The U.S. and Bukele's Administration01:28:39 The Strongman Image: Trump and Bukele's Law and Order Narrative01:30:56 The Role of History in Current Political Dynamics01:32:39 The Future of Resistance and Political Mobilization

Jessica Burbank and John Russell react to President Trump hitting pause on most tariffs.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context of the Podcast01:04 Trump's Tariffs and Market Reactions05:52 The Role of Billionaires in Economic Manipulation12:02 The Impact of Tariffs on the Working Class18:09 The Future of Automation and Economic Control24:08 The Need for a Democratic Economy30:12 Immigration and Economic Policy37:01 The Importance of Due Process40:37 The Two-Tiered Justice System42:42 Political Polarization and Free Speech45:28 Taxation and Immigrant Contributions47:10 Protests and Political Movements50:30 The Need for a Working-Class Agenda52:43 Small Actions, Big Impact53:10 Elon Musk and the Gaming Controversy56:13 Wealth Inequality and Billionaires57:58 Stock Market Dynamics and Tariffs

Jess & John discuss President Trump's tariff announcements and react to listeners "horrible bosses" stories.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and New Format02:39 Discussion on Tariffs and Their Implications20:08 Elon Musk's Influence in Politics24:47 Cory Booker's Filibuster and Its Impact33:57 The Emergence of a New Labor Party40:16 Local Control vs. State Overreach48:15 The Threat to Federal Unions55:43 The Need for Political Change56:58 Horrible Bosses: Real Stories from the Workplace01:03:42 Sicko Mode and Bad Bosses01:04:07 Tulsi Gabbard: A Wild Card Boss01:05:32 Personal Encounters with Tulsi Gabbard01:06:33 The Mean Boss Archetype01:10:20 Navigating Toxic Work Environments01:12:59 The Importance of Unionization01:14:14 Shitty Jobs and Worker Exploitation01:18:04 The Reality of Labor Conditions in America

Jessica Burbank interviews lawyer Rachael Cohen after she quit over Donald Trump’s growing influence over U.S. law.Watch on YouTube: To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

A bombshell report in the Atlantic reveals how White House security officials accidentally included the outlet’s editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, in a group chat where they discussed war plans. The chat included National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz, Vice President Vance, Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, DNI Tulsi Gabbard, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe—joined by top Trump insiders, including Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and hardline strategist Stephen Miller, signaling the inner circle's deep involvement.Read the full story here.Also, John details how he stopped by Colorado to attend one of Bernie Sanders and AOC’s “Fight the Oligarchy” tour rallies and the new change in the Overton window regarding the populist momentum the country is feeling amid Trump’s second term in office.Production note: A big thanks to Biso Sarraf for our sick new open!Hosts: Ka (Jessica) Burbank and John Russell Producer: Gabi Schulte Follow us @jessandjohnpod To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

Ka (Jessica) Burbank and John Russell discuss the latest news this week:* Schumer and GOP budget passage* Mahmoud Khalil* Colorado Worker Bill SB 25-005* Bernie Sanders Oligarchy Tour* Conservatives rage over…Love is Blind?* Listener mailbag!Follow Jess & John Pod for more Produced by: Gabi Schulte To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

Ka (Jessica) Burbank and John Russell discuss the implications of Biden's policy decisions and how they paved the way for the GOP's proposed anti-working class budget with Stephen Semler author of the Polygraph substack. Follow on x, YouTube, instagram and tikok for more: @jessandjohnpodProduced by: Gabi Schulte To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

In this episode, Ka (Jessica) Burbank and John Russell chat about what they’ve been working on.Jess’s recent work: John’s latest work: Thanks for reading Jess & John Pod! This post is public so feel free to share it.In this episode, Jess and John explore various political themes, including election security, the implications of cybersecurity breaches, and the realities faced by Haitian migrants in America. They also discuss the impact of economic conditions on communities, investigate rumors in Springfield, Ohio, and reflect on the need for political accountability and the influence of corporations on daily life. The conversation highlights the importance of cultural activism and the potential for change in the political landscape.Follow and share! @jessandjohnpod Produced by: Gabi Schulte , The Daily Scroll To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

https://www.freedonziger.com/Follow us @jessandjohnpod To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

In this episode, Jessica Burbank and John Russell explore the historical context of fascism in America, drawing parallels to modern political movements as well as react to Elon Musk’s “Nazi” salute during Trump’s inauguration. They also discuss the rise of fear and insecurity as tools for authoritarianism, the implications of the two-party system, and the importance of grassroots organizing and community engagement in combating these trends. Thanks for reading Jess & John Pod! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.Hosts: Jessica Burbank and John RussellProducer: Gabi SchulteFollow us at @jessandjohnpodInsta | TikTok | YouTube: @jessandjohnpod To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

NOTE: OK, so that was the shortest ban ever? We recorded this pod where Jessica Burbank and John Russell discuss their thoughts on the Tik Tok ban leading up to the fateful day, but then…it came back online!We have an updated episode on that coming up but wanted to share this conversation with you anyways!Hosts: Jessica Burbank and John RussellProducer: Gabi SchulteFollow us at Jess & John PodInsta | TikTok | YouTube: Jess & John Pod To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

In this episode, independent journalist Ken Klippenstein discusses the release of a controversial manifesto and the media's response to it. He critiques the mainstream media's gatekeeping and their relationship with law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of transparency and public interest. The conversation also delves into the legal dynamics surrounding the case, public sentiment towards the shooter, and the internal communications of United Healthcare. Klippenstein highlights the role of independent journalism in providing a voice for ordinary people and critiques the concept of sanctioned news, advocating for a more open and honest media landscape. Follow his work at Ken Klippenstein Follow us at Jess & John Pod Insta | TikTok | YouTube: @jessandjohnpod To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

In this episode, Jess and John dive into the explosive fallout from the alleged murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson by Luigi Mangione. They dissect the failures of a profit-driven healthcare system—rising care denial rates, corporate greed, and the crushing toll on working-class lives—while making the case for Medicare for All as the only viable path forward.The duo doesn’t shy away from the cultural rot underpinning it all, from the soulless conformity of 'beige society' to media narratives that protect the ruling class. They tackle how the press spins violence against CEOs while ignoring the systemic violence inflicted on everyday people. This conversation challenges listeners to reject sensationalist distractions and confront the bigger picture of exploitation, inequality, and the urgent need for systemic change.Hosts: Jessica Burbank and John Russell Producer: Gabi Schulte Follow us at: @jessandjohnpod To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

Hey ya’ll! We hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving!Thanks for all the love and support so far! Here’s episode 2.Description: Jessica Burbank and John Russell react to a recent Pod Save America episode where top campaign aides for Kamala Harris reflect on what went wrong during the 2024 election cycle after losing to Donald Trump. Also, is Bernie Sanders hinting at starting a 3rd party?Hosts: Ka (Jessica) Burbank and John RussellProducer: Gabi Schulte | The Daily Scroll To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

Happy Thanksgiving! Team Jess and John pod are releasing this teaser of episode 2, full episode will release this Friday.Description: Jessica Burbank and John Russell react to a recent Pod Save America episode where top campaign aides for Kamala Harris reflect on what went wrong during the 2024 election cycle after losing to Donald Trump.Hosts: Ka (Jessica) Burbank and John RussellProducer: Gabi Schulte The Daily Scroll To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

On today’s episode of Jess & John Pod, Jessica Burbank and John Russell process Donald Trump’s win and discuss how to build a non ruling class coalition moving forward.Hosted by: Jessica Burbank and John RussellProduced by: Gabi SchulteSubscribe and share:jessandjohnpod.substack.comInsta/TikTok/YouTube: @jessandjohnpod To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com

Follow us on:Instagram: @jessandjohnpodTikTok: @jessandjohnpodYouTube: JessandJohnPodAnd anywhere you listen to podcasts To hear more, visit jessjohnpod.substack.com