Best Checkered Thoughts Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 223: The Empire Strikes First, Part II — ‘Abundance’ Pablum as Counter to Left Populism 1:25:52

4h ago1:25:52

1:25:52

“Can Democrats Learn to Dream Big Again?,” wonders Samuel Moyn in the New York Times. “The Democrats Are Finally Landing on a New Buzzword. It’s Actually Compelling,” argues Slate staff writer Henry Grabar. “Do Democrats Need to Learn How to Build?,” asks Benjamin Wallace-Wells in The New Yorker. For the past few months, news and editorial rooms ha…

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S1 Ep23: The Air Raid with Parker Kelley: Milestone NCAA House Settlement APPROVED + More Thoughts on Potential 5+11 CFP Format (6-8-25) 47:20

3d ago47:20

47:20

Episode 23 of The Air Raid with Parker Kelley features breaking news of the NCAA House Settlement getting approved over the weekend. Is this a good or bad thing for college athletics? Plus, there is more buzz on the Michigan vs NCAA saga. The 5+11 College Football Playoff format is gaining traction, according to multiple reports. Parker shares his …

1
Ep 115 - Bourbon Barrel Bliss: Exploring 608 Brewing's Imperial Stouts 58:15

6d ago58:15

58:15

Send us a text Dive into the dark, boozy world of barrel-aged beers as Mike welcomes his brother Brian, a professional brewer, to sample six high-octane offerings from 608 Brewing in La Crosse, Wisconsin. With ABVs ranging from 14.1% to a staggering 17.6%, this isn't your average beer tasting! The brothers carefully work through each imperial stout…

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Ep 222 - The Empire Strikes First Part I: Party Elites Who Lost to Trump (Twice) Blame Everyone But Themselves 1:21:29

7d ago1:21:29

1:21:29

In Ep. 222, "The Empire Strikes First Part I: Party Elites Who Lost to Trump (Twice) Blame Everyone But Themselves," we detail how our media allows the same party flacks who got the Dems into this mess, control over the narrative of how to get them out. With guest UC-Berkeley professor Jake Grumbach.…

1
S1 Ep22: The Air Raid with Parker Kelley: Greg Sankey Makes Headlines at SEC Media Days + Future of CFP (6-2-25) 50:35

10d ago50:35

50:35

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey made headlines last week during media days in Destin, Florida. Parker shares his thoughts on all that was said as well as his perspective on the future of the College Football Playoff. What is Parker's favorite format? Also, is the transfer portal the biggest issue in the sport? Finally, you won't want to miss the good …

1
Ep 114 - Beyond the Label: What Happens When You Drink Outside Your Comfort Zone? 44:47

13d ago44:47

44:47

Send us a text What happens when craft beer enthusiasts dive into mystery brews from across America? This episode takes you on a flavorful journey as Mike and his brother Brian, an experienced homebrewer, sample eight diverse beers from a Beer of the Month Club subscription. The brothers work their way through a carefully arranged tasting flight, s…

1
S6 Ep5: Chasing Checkers w/ Chase McCabe: Ryan Blaney, Alex Bowman 46:58

14d ago46:58

46:58

This week, Chase McCabe gives his thoughts on the Coke 600 and Chastain's win, plus Ryan Blaney joins in studio! You'll also hear a chat with Alex Bowman and Nashville Superspeedway's Katie Myers.By 102.5 The Game

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Episode 221: Anti-Science Mugging on the Right and the Ascent of American Anti-Intellectualism 1:08:10

14d ago1:08:10

1:08:10

In this episode we detail demagogues' favorite faux populist schtick of taking scientific studies out of context and mocking them, often with help from mainstream media. with guest Brenda Ekwurzel, director of climate science for the Union of Concerned Scientists.

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S6 Ep5: Talking Calcio EP. 8 (05-26-25) 1:10:57

16d ago1:10:57

1:10:57

In this edition of Talking Calcio, Nick Frazier and Claudio Villalobos recap the last three matches for Nashville SC. Nashville drew 0-0 with DC United at home, Which continued their unbeaten streak. DC United gave Nashville a difficult task as the boys in gold tried to break down the switch of tactics. Claudio shared his thoughts on what stood out…

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S1 Ep21: The Air Raid with Parker Kelley: Tennessee, Vandy's Future with the SEC + CFP Moving to Straight-Seeding Format (5-25-25) 53:30

18d ago53:30

53:30

A special Memorial Day Weekend episode of The Air Raid with Parker Kelley features Parker's reaction to the passing of a new state bill that has Tennessee and Vandy's SEC membership status in limbo. Also, the College Football Playoff recently announced that they were moving to a straight-seeding format. Is this a good or bad thing? Plus, so much mo…

1
PFL Interview with Thad Jean and Jason Jackson 13:02

19d ago13:02

13:02

The PFL is coming back to Nashville on June 12 at Municipal Auditorium. Undefeated Thad Jean takes on former Champ, Jason Jackson. The two trade some trash talk in an interview with Chase & Big Joe.By 102.5 The Game

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Ep 113 - Hops, Malts, and Memories: A Brotherly Beer Adventure 50:59

20d ago50:59

50:59

Send us a text What happens when brothers reunite to taste forgotten beers? That's exactly what unfolds as Mike welcomes his brother Brian—known affectionately as "the mad scientist"—to the Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast for a unique tasting experience. Together, they crack open a time capsule in the form of unopened Beer of the Month Club boxes that …

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News Brief: NPR Asks Starving Palestinian Living On Rubble to Denounce Hamas, Co-Sign His Own Ethnic Cleansing 23:08

20d ago23:08

23:08

In this News Brief, we we break down an object lesson in racist US-Israeli national security state toadyism, double standards, and runaway condescension.

1
S6 Ep4: Chasing Checkers - All-Star Reaction + Brad Keselowski, Ryan Preece & Ricky Stenhouse Jr. 47:26

21d ago47:26

47:26

This show is PACKED. Chase McCabe reacts to a wild All-Star Race from North Wilkesboro and Brad Keselowski, Ryan Preece and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. all join the show.By 102.5 The Game

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Astrobiodefense: Biological Threats and the Next Frontier 3:09:28

26d ago3:09:28

3:09:28

This Commission meeting, Astrobiodefense: Biological Threats and the Next Frontier, was held on May 8, 2025. The focus of this meeting will be to provide the Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense with a better understanding of how to strengthen international astrobiodefense and planetary protection efforts through: (1) current government astrobiodefe…

1
2025 State of Biodefense - Remarks by Dr. Asha M. George 1:07:45

26d ago1:07:45

1:07:45

The Commission's May 8, 2025 meeting began with Executive Director Dr. Asha M. George delivering the first annual State of National Biodefense address. The increasing biological threat and uncertainty surrounding federal biodefense programs and capabilities necessitates a clear-eyed examination of the threat and US efforts to address critical capab…

1
S6 Ep2: Chasing Checkers - Texas Recap + Ross Chastain 46:55

26d ago46:55

46:55

Ross Chastain Joins, plus Chase McCabe recaps Texas.By 102.5 The Game

1
S6 Ep3: Chasing Checkers - Kansas Reaction + Bubba Wallace 44:56

26d ago44:56

44:56

Chase McCabe brings another edition of Chasing Checkers with driver Bubba Wallace as his guest. Also, he gives his thoughts on Kyle Larson's dominant performance at Kansas.By 102.5 The Game

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Ep 112 - Brothers, Brews, and Honest Reviews at Checkers Tavern 20:24

27d ago20:24

20:24

Send us a text Pull up a barstool and join Mike, the Northwoods Beer Guy, and his brother Brian, the "Mad Scientist of brewing," as they embark on a craft beer adventure at Checkers Tavern in Warrensburg, Missouri. Against a backdrop of live music and lively bar ambiance, the brothers share honest, straightforward evaluations of local brews with th…

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S1 Ep23: Talking Calcio EP. 7 | (05-14-25) 1:12:56

28d ago1:12:56

1:12:56

In this edition of the Talking Calcio podcast, Nick Frazier and Claudio Villalobos discuss Nashville SC's big 2-1 Charlotte FC win this past Saturday. Later in the episode, Nick and Claudio broke down Nashville's attacking style through the midfield and the flanks. What's the biggest test this Nashville team is about to face going up against New Yo…

1
S1 Ep20: The Air Raid with Parker Kelley: CFP Expanding to 16 Teams? + PK's Post-Spring Top 25 (5-13-25) 1:00:39

30d ago1:00:39

1:00:39

This episode of The Air Raid with Parker Kelley features Parker discussing recent reports of the College Football Playoff expanding to 16 teams in 2026 and beyond. Is there a chance the proposed format could be better than the current? Also, there has been plenty of discussion surrounding the SEC playing a nine-game conference schedule. Why hasn't …

1
S1 Ep22: Ring Knowers: Backlash Reaction (05-11-25) 31:40

1M ago31:40

31:40

Connor Nute and Christian Skelton react and break down the results of WWE Backlash in St. Louis, including reaction to John Cena vs Randy Orton and more!By 102.5 The Game

1
Ep 111 - From Cocktails to CranFest: A Northern Wisconsin Journey 46:28

1M ago46:28

46:28

Send us a text Ever wonder if those ready-to-drink cocktails are actually worth your time? This episode takes you on a journey through five different canned cocktails that might change how you stock your cooler this summer. Mike (fighting through a springtime bug) and Suzy start by revisiting their experience at Between the Bluffs beer festival, hi…

1
S1 Ep21: Talking Calcio EP.6 | (05-08-25) 1:11:54

1M ago1:11:54

1:11:54

In this episode of Talking Calcio, Nick Frazier and Claudio Villalobos react to Nashville SC’s recent couple of matches as they tied 1-1 in Atlanta, leaving two points on the table. What is it about BJ Callaghan’s system that is allowing his defenders to be in scoring opportunities? Later in the episode, Nick and Claudio recapped the Round of 32 ma…

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News Brief: Baltimore Uprising 10 Years on: PR Co-option vs Genuine Reform 36:49

1M ago36:49

36:49

In this News Brief we are joined by Taya Graham and Stephen Janis of The Real News Network to discuss their new documentary, "Freddie Gray: A Decade of Struggle" about the lessons, pitfalls and genuine reforms stemming from the 2015 Baltimore Uprisings. You can watch the documentary here: therealnews.com/freddie-gray-the-…ng-10-years-later…

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S1 Ep19: The Air Raid with Parker Kelley: Michigan Suspends Sherrone Moore, Georgia Lands 5-Star QB Commit (5-6-25) 46:26

1M ago46:26

46:26

The Connor Stalions' saga continues in Ann Arbor, and Parker Kelley reacts to the self-imposed two-game suspension for Sherrone Moore. There has been talk between Nick Saban and President Donald Trump of a potential executive order pertaining to NIL. What is the likelihood this order gets put into place? Georgia lands a huge commitment from five-st…

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Ep 110 -The Northwoods Beer Guy discovers hidden gems at La Crosse's premier beer event 19:24

1M ago19:24

19:24

Send us a text Step into the vibrant world of Wisconsin's craft beer scene as the Northwoods Beer Guy and friends explore the Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine and Cheese Festival in La Crosse. This on-location adventure captures the excitement of discovery as Mike and his crew of familiar podcast voices sample their way through dozens of unique offeri…

1
S1 Ep1: Chasing Checkers - 043025 48:48

1M ago48:48

48:48

Chase McCabe returns to talk some racing! Jamie Little from Fox Sports joins, plus Chase gives his thoughts on the Dega drama between Joey Logano and Austin Cindric. Chase also talks Fairgrounds with GM Anthony Tate.By 102.5 The Game

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Episode 220: The Power of Thought-Terminating Bad Guy Labels 1:21:06

1M ago1:21:06

1:21:06

"American Extremists Aiding Radicals Across Border," trumpeted the Detroit Free Press in 1919. "707 Illegal Aliens Arrested in Checkpoint Crackdown," reported the Los Angeles Times in 1987. "87 Bronx gang members responsible for nine years of murders and drug-dealing charged in largest takedown in NYC history," announced the New York Daily News in …

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S1 Ep18: The Air Raid with Parker Kelley: 2025 NFL Draft Recap, Shedeur Sanders' Slide, More Spring Transfer Portal News (4-28-25) 47:36

1M ago47:36

47:36

Episode 18 of The Air Raid with Parker Kelley features Parker recapping the storylines of the 2025 NFL Draft. What can we learn about the state of college football from the results of the draft? Arguably, the biggest storyline of the weekend was the slide of Shedeur Sanders. What does Parker make of the situation? The show concludes with more sprin…

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S1 Ep20: Talking Calcio Ep. 5 (04-28-25) 1:06:05

1M ago1:06:05

1:06:05

In this episode of Talking Calcio with Nick Frazier and Claudio Villalobos, the guys discussed Nashville SC’s 7-2 win and the records made in matchday 10. Under BJ Callaghan, Nashville SC has had 6 goals come from defenders. What is it with Callaghan’s system that has unlocked this secret cheat road in goal production from his back line? Later in t…

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S1 Ep19: Draft Night in Nashville: Night 2 (04-25-25) 3:03:36

2M ago3:03:36

3:03:36

Chase McCabe and Joe Rexrode take you through rounds 2 and 3 of the NFL Draft, with analysis of who the Titans draftBy 102.5 The Game

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Ep 109 - From Mead to IPA: A Journey Through Unexpected Flavors 1:05:07

2M ago1:05:07

1:05:07

Send us a text What happens when two beer enthusiasts taste their way through seven wildly different craft beverages in a single sitting? A flavor journey that spans continents, traditions, and brewing philosophies. Mike and Jim kick off with excited chatter about the upcoming Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine and Cheese Festival before diving into the…

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S1 Ep18: Draft Night in Nashville (4-24-25) 4:26:49

2M ago4:26:49

4:26:49

Jared Stillman, Derrick Mason, Chris Sanders, and Trevor Matitch take you through the 1st round of the 2025 NFL DraftBy 102.5 The Game

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S1 Ep17: The Air Raid with Parker Kelley: OutKick's Chad Withrow Joins the Show to Talk the Latest in College Football (4-23-25) 36:06

2M ago36:06

36:06

OutKick's Chad Withrow joins Parker Kelley to talk the very latest in college football.By 102.5 The Game

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Ep 219: How Elites Concern Troll 'Waste' to Gut Social Welfare and Divide the Working Class 1:15:34

2M ago1:15:34

1:15:34

"Poverty plan hit for fraud, waste," reported the Associated Press in 1966. "Study says government waste is unbelievable,” insisted United Press International in 1983. "Beneath Trump’s Chaotic Spending Freeze: An Idea That Crosses Party Lines," announced The New York Times in January of this year. It’s an argument that dates back decades, even cent…

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S1 Ep17: Adam Vingan Interviewing Yvonne Muldoon of Aer Lingus 10:19

2M ago10:19

10:19

By 102.5 The Game

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S1 Ep16: The Air Raid with Parker Kelley: Nico to UCLA, Spring Portal News + Updates, Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter Jersey Retirement, Tribute to Lee Corso (4-20-25) 50:44

2M ago50:44

50:44

Episode 16 of The Air Raid with Parker Kelley features Parker diving into the latest news and updates regarding the spring transfer portal window. Nico Iamaleava officially commits to UCLA, but is there a positive spin to this situation? Parker also reacts to Fran Brown's latest comments regarding star receiver Trebor Pena entering the transfer por…

1
S1 Ep16: Ring Knowers: WrestleMania 41 Special 44:06

2M ago44:06

44:06

Connor Nute and Christian Skelton get you set for WrestleMania 41, including Night 1 and 2 breakdownsBy 102.5 The Game

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Ep 108 - Sip, Discuss, Repeat: Two Beer Guys and Seven Boulevard Brews 1:11:40

2M ago1:11:40

1:11:40

Send us a text When we stepped into Boulevard Brewing Company during our Kansas City visit, we knew we were in for something special. What we didn't expect was just how masterfully this brewery has honed their craft across such diverse beer styles. Having brought back seven distinct bottles to sample, we're taking you on a flavor journey that showc…

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Ep 218: The Siren Song of Rallying Around a 'Common Enemy' to Promote Progressive Causes 1:13:21

2M ago1:13:21

1:13:21

"Senate Weighs Investing $120 Billion in Science to Counter China," trumpeted The New York Times in 2021. "A New Economic Patriotism Can Help Unite Our Divided Congress," argued Newsweek in 2023. "US cedes ground to China with ‘self-inflicted wound’ of USAid shutdown, analysts say," cautioned The Guardian in 2025. In recent years, we’ve been expose…

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S1 Ep15: The Air Raid with Parker Kelley: BREAKING NEWS: TENNESSEE VOLUNTERS MOVING ON FROM QB NICO IAMALEAVA (4-12-25) 25:18

2M ago25:18

25:18

Parker Kelley reacts to the news that the Tennessee Volunteers are parting ways with QB Nico Iamaleava.By 102.5 The Game

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S1 Ep15: Talking Calcio Ep. 4 (04-11-25) 1:04:30

2M ago1:04:30

1:04:30

In this edition of Talking Calcio, Nick Frazier and Claudio Villalobos recap the 2-1 defeat Nashville SC suffered on the road against Charlotte FC. What are a few concerns you have for this Nashville side from the performances the last couple of weeks? With Walker Zimmerman presumably out for this weekend's fixture and maybe a couple more after, wh…

1
Ep 107 - Unexpected Flavor: When Sours Surprise and Honey Harmonizes 56:27

2M ago56:27

56:27

Send us a text A familiar voice returns to the Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast as Brian rejoins Mike after a long absence since appearances on episodes one and two. Their reunion brings a diverse lineup of six unique beers that take listeners on a journey from the shores of Hawaii to the heartland of Wisconsin. The duo kicks off with Kona Brewing's Big…

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S1 Ep14: The Air Raid with Parker Kelley: Latest on House Settlement, Transfer Portal Chaos, Texas Tech + USC Recruiting (4-9-25) 39:56

2M ago39:56

39:56

Episode 14 of The Air Raid with Parker Kelley features Parker diving into the latest surrounding the House Settlement. How will it affect college football moving forward? The spring transfer portal is opening soon. How do we fix the transfer portal chaos? To end the show, Parker tells you which teams are heating up in recruiting.…

1
Ep 106 - In every sip, there's a story waiting to be discovered 59:48

2M ago59:48

59:48

Send us a text Venture into the fascinating world of barrel-aged beers as Mike and BK embark on a tasting journey that reveals just how varied and complex these special brews can be. From the moment they crack open their first beer – a velvety chocolate mint stout that transforms dramatically as it warms – to the surprising discoveries in Mobcraft'…

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News Brief: Dem Leaders, 'Free Speech' Warriors Mostly Shrug as Trump Disappears Political Dissidents 28:09

2M ago28:09

28:09

In this public News Brief, we discuss the media and high-profile Democratic Party leaders and 'Free Speech' crowd's muted—or, in many cases, completely silent—response to the greatest attack on free speech in recent memory: Trump's kidnapping and disappearing of Palestinian solidarity students.

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S1 Ep13: The Air Raid with Parker Kelley: NCAA Declines Waiver for Colorado-Syracuse Spring Game, Coach Prime Gets Five-Year Extension, Jeremy Pruitt Sues NCAA, Mike Gundy Suggests Spring Bedlam (4-2-25 ... 41:19

2M ago41:19

41:19

Episode 13 of The Air Raid with Parker Kelley features Parker discussing the NCAA's decision to decline the waiver permitting Colorado and Syracuse to play a spring game against each other. What is the future of spring games? Coach Prime gets a five-year extension with Colorado. Parker explains why Deion Sanders is now one of the highest-paid coach…

1
S1 Ep14: Dax McCarty 8:13

2M ago8:13

8:13

MLS Analyst Dax McCarty joined the episode and shared some of his thoughts about the MLS and Nashville SC. Dax answered an interesting question regarding Nashville winning a trophy in year one of being the head coach of Nashville SC. Listen to hear more.By 102.5 The Game

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S1 Ep13: Talking Calcio Ep. 3 (04-1-25) 27:09

2M ago27:09

27:09

In this edition of the Talking Calcio podcast, Nick Frazier recaps the 2-1 Nashville SC loss. What changes need to be made from now up until Saturday as they take on Charlotte FC? What is the biggest concern with this Nashville SC side when it comes ot scoring? What player is up next if Hany Mukhtar can't convert penalty kicks? How will Nashville r…

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