Comedians Tyler Snodgrass and Danny Maupin are building the ultimate country music playlist one song a time. Each week the hosts research and discuss a different boot-stompin' country banger that they believe is so good it might convert a country music hater, often with the help of a comedian guest. And then the song of the week is added to their public playlist!
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Bringing you the best highlights from today's top Sports News. Cleveland Style. Cover art photo provided by David Beatz on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/@_davidgavi
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Our Laibies, Alannah and Sarah, take on America, the world, and a bottle of wine. And no, it's not a real word.
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National Security Law Today brings legal experts discussing the hot topics and current issues in the world of national security law right to your phone. Get information and advice for lawyers, law students or interested parties who want to dig deeper into the law that protects the country.
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Myanmar’s Rare Earth Frontier: Power and Politics Along China’s Border with Timothy McLaughlin (Part 1)
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21:15In Myanmar’s remote Kachin State, a rebel militia now controls one of the world’s most strategic mineral frontiers. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa speaks with journalist Timothy McLaughlin about the Kachin Independence Army’s takeover of the Pangwa region—rich in rare earth minerals vital to wind turbines, electric vehicles, and advanced…
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Where Energy Policy Is Headed Next with Tyler O’Connor (Part 2)
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27:04In Part 2 of this two-part episode, Elisa continues her conversation with Tyler O’Connor, Partner at Crowell & Moring and former Energy Counsel to the House Energy & Commerce Committee, to explore the evolving role of the National Defense Authorization Act. Together, they break down how the NDAA is expanding the Department of Energy’s reach, creati…
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Where Energy Policy Is Headed Next with Tyler O’Connor (Part 1)
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24:13A new wave of energy legislation is changing the incentives–and the direction–of U.S. energy policy. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa sits down with Tyler O’Connor, Partner at Crowell & Moring and former Energy Counsel to the House Energy & Commerce Committee, to unpack the recently passed “One Big Beautiful Bill.” They discuss how the leg…
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89: "Straight Tequila Night" by John Anderson
52:06
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52:06This week Tyler and Danny add the No. 1 hit "Straight Tequila Night" to their Ultimate Country Playlist. They also discuss Neotrad hitmaker John Anderson's impressive but sometimes overlooked career. Check out our Patreon! Check out our new merch store! Instagram: @TakeThisPodandShoveIt For everything else click HERE! Want to create your own great …
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Balancing Innovation and Nonproliferation in the Nuclear Age with John A. Lauder
32:25
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32:25This week, Elisa is joined by John A. Lauder—former CIA official, arms control negotiator, and current Senior Fellow at the Wisconsin Project on Nuclear Arms Control—to examine the tension between nuclear innovation and nonproliferation. From the postwar promise of Atoms for Peace to today’s AI-fueled energy demands, they unpack the rising interest…
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The Legal Edge in the Critical Minerals Race with Brian Egan
33:56
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33:56In the race for critical minerals, legal frameworks are becoming as important as supply chains. This week, Elisa is joined by Brian Egan, Partner at Skadden and former Legal Adviser at the State Department and National Security Council, to unpack the legal complexities behind securing minerals from foreign—and often unfriendly—nations. From sanctio…
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88: "We Have Fed You All For 1000 Years" by Willi Carlisle
1:03:02
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1:03:02This week Tyler and Danny discuss Willi Carlisle's incredible new album, Winged Victory, and add its opening tack to our Ultimate Country Playlist. "We Have Fed You All For 1000 Years" (sometimes written as 'A Thousand') is a powerful union song over 100 years old, attributed to "an unknown proletariat." In Carlisle's hands it is a barn burner that…
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Fueling the Grid: The Cost of Falling Behind in Nuclear with Dr. Koroush Shirvan (Part 2)
26:23
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26:23In Part 2 of their two-part discussion, Elisa and Dr. Koroush Shirvan of MIT’s Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering explore how small-scale reactors compare to other green alternatives, why the U.S. continues to trail global leaders, and what policy and infrastructure gaps must be addressed to move forward. They also discuss rising energy …
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Fueling the Grid: The National Stakes of Nuclear Energy with Dr. Koroush Shirvan (Part 1)
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22:32As pressure mounts to modernize America’s energy systems, nuclear power is back on the table. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa is joined by Dr. Koroush Shirvan, nuclear expert and professor in MIT’s Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering, to break down the fundamentals of nuclear energy and its potential role in national security. T…
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Catch-up and Mustard 9: Tyler and Danny's Songs of the Summer
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50:50The Take this Pod and Shove It boys are back and talking their essential songs of the summer. They curate a Summertime playlist on the spot featuring songs from Zach Top, Alan Jackson, Jimmy Buffett (of course) and more! Got some quintessential summer/beach/vacation listening that we missed? Shoot us a message over on Instagram @takethispodandshove…
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The Role of Judge Advocates General in Providing Legal Advice to the Military
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55:12The recent dismissal of the Judge Advocates General of the Army and Air Force has raised new questions about the role of independent legal advice in the U.S. military. This week, we’re airing a special rebroadcast of our May 28th live program on the role of Judge Advocates General in advising military leadership and upholding the law of armed confl…
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From Pipelines to Prisoners: Mitigating Risk Before Crisis Strikes with Kieran Ramsey (Part 2)
20:42
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20:42In Part 2 of their conversation, Elisa and Kieran Ramsey, Chief Investigative Officer at Global Reach and former FBI Special Agent, explore how companies can better prepare their people and operations for high-threat environments. From travel security to cultural blind spots, they discuss why planning, awareness, and proactive leadership are key to…
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From Pipelines to Prisoners: Security in the Energy Sector with Kieran Ramsey (Part 1)
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25:44As global demand for energy surges, so do the risks for those working to meet it. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa is joined by Kieran Ramsey, Chief Investigative Officer at Global Reach and former Director of the FBI’s Hostage Recovery Fusion Cell, to explore the dangers facing energy professionals operating abroad. Together, they examine…
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What the Grid Powers—and Why Resilience Starts with People with Jonathan Snodgrass (Part 2)
23:24
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23:24As energy demands surge, protecting the U.S. power grid has become a national security imperative. In Part 2 of their conversation, Elisa and Dr. Jonathan Snodgrass of Texas A&M examine the next layer of challenges facing America’s electric grid—from the need for trained personnel to the importance of critical load prioritization. They discuss how …
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What the Grid Powers—and What Happens If It Fails with Jonathan Snodgrass (Part 1)
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25:34Is our grid capable of supporting our energy needs? In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa is joined by Dr. Jonathan Snodgrass of Texas A&M to break down what the electric grid is, who maintains it, and how its vulnerabilities could impact national security. From critical military systems to daily necessities like transportation and groceries, t…
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After some time away, we are back with one of the biggest country songs of all time! This week we finally add a Kenny Rogers track to our Ultimate Country Playlist, and we of course had to feature "The Gambler," a song that inspired a quintology of made-for-TV Westerns. Plus, you KNOW we discuss the possibility of opening our very own Kenny Rogers …
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Ports, Power, and China’s Strategy in Africa with Paul Nantulya
42:48
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42:48China’s growing presence in African port development is shifting global power dynamics. This week, Elisa is joined by Paul Nantulya of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies to examine China’s growing influence across the continent’s maritime infrastructure. Drawing from his recent study, they discuss how port investments tie into China’s long-ter…
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Fixing the Framework: The Information Crisis and Its Democratic Cost with Barbara McQuade (Part 2)
34:52
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34:52As misinformation fuels mistrust, the challenge ahead is restoring shared civic ground. In Part 2 of their conversation, Elisa is joined by Barbara McQuade, Professor at the University of Michigan Law School and former U.S. Attorney, to examine the legal, cultural, and educational solutions that could help strengthen democratic stability. Drawing f…
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The Information Crisis and Its Democratic Cost with Barbara McQuade (Part 1)
27:37
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27:37Changes in how we share and receive information are reshaping democratic stability. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa sits down with Barbara McQuade, Professor at the University of Michigan Law School and former U.S. Attorney, to examine how disinformation, digital echo chambers, and the decline of civic infrastructure are reshaping public …
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How Sextortion Is Undermining the Workforce of Tomorrow with Paul Raffile
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21:05A growing number of teenage boys in the U.S. are being targeted by large-scale financial sextortion schemes. This week, Elisa sits down with cybercrime expert Paul Raffile to uncover the scale and tactics behind this global blackmail operation, how social media platforms are enabling it, and what it means for the future of America’s workforce. From…
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Tariff Tactics: How Presidents Shape Trade Law with Kathleen Claussen
43:46
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43:46Tariffs have been shaping American policy since 1792, but the legal framework behind them is anything but settled. This week, Elisa is joined by Professor Kathleen Claussen of Georgetown Law to unpack the constitutional authority for imposing tariffs, how presidents have used emergency powers to reshape trade policy, and why legal challenges contin…
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Elemental Power: In a Digital Age, Oil Still Reigns with Mark Mills (Part 2)
24:16
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24:16(Part 2 of 2) This week, Elisa and Mark Mills explore the growing energy demands of digital infrastructure, and why hydrocarbons remain central to global energy forecasts. They examine the intersection of technology, defense readiness, and long-term energy strategy in an era defined by rising demand and complex supply chains. Mark Mills is founder …
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86: "Time" by Tobacco City, w/ Caleb Doyle
56:52
56:52
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56:52This week we are joined by music writer Caleb Doyle (of Nightswimming music blog) to discuss Chicago alt country band Tobacco City. We add the Tobacco City song "Time" from their excellent 2025 album Horses to our Ultimate Country Playlist. Check out our playlist and the entire Horses album! Check out our Patreon! Check out our new merch store! Ins…
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Elemental Power: The U.S. Mining Gap and the Global Stakes with Mark Mills (Part 1)
25:45
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25:45Behind every battery lies a complex web of minerals, mining, and global politics. In Part 1 of this two-part discussion, Elisa is joined by Mark Mills, founder and executive director of the National Center for Energy Analytics, to explore how—and why—America’s mining and processing capabilities have fallen behind. Together, they break down which mi…
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Elemental Power: Rebuilding Trust in Nuclear with Dr. Jeff Waksman (Part 2)
27:20
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27:20As energy needs skyrocket and climate pressure mounts, the conversation around nuclear is shifting—from fear to feasibility. In Part 2 of their discussion, Elisa and Dr. Jeff Waksman dive into the historical baggage, policy bottlenecks, and environmental considerations shaping nuclear’s future. They explore common misconceptions about reactor safet…
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85: "Small Town Saturday Night" by Hal Ketchum
41:03
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41:03This week Danny and Tyler add Hal Ketchum's 90's boot-scootin', slice-of-life banger "Small Town Saturday Night" to the Ultimate Country Playlist. Also we talk about Jurassic Park for some reason. Check out our Patreon! Check out our new merch store! Instagram: @TakeThisPodandShoveIt For everything else click HERE! Want to create your own great pod…
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Elemental Power: Rethinking Nuclear—The Rise of Microreactors with Dr. Jeff Waksman (Part 1)
29:46
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29:46Nuclear energy is back in the spotlight as policymakers and innovators look for faster, cleaner, and more reliable energy solutions. This week, Elisa is joined by Dr. Jeff Waksman, Program Manager at the Department of Defense’s Strategic Capabilities Office, to explore Project Pele—an initiative designed to fast-track the development of mobile nucl…
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Elemental Power: Feeding AI—The Growing Burden of Data and Energy with Vijay Janapa Reddi (Part 2)
25:05
25:05
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25:05As AI continues to evolve, what must be done to balance innovation with security and sustainability? In Part 2 of their discussion, Elisa and Dr. Vijay Janapa Reddi dive into the growing energy demands of AI systems, their role in national security, and the challenges of ensuring responsible development. They discuss how AI’s reliance on vast amoun…
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Elemental Power: The Building Blocks of AI with Vijay Janapa Reddi (Part 1)
25:45
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25:45The AI revolution is just beginning, and its future depends on how we shape its systems, data, and ethics today. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa sits down with Dr. Vijay Janapa Reddi, Harvard professor and AI systems expert, to break down the three core categories of AI systems—generative, predictive, and prescriptive—and how they functio…
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Elemental Power: Mining, Markets, and the Critical Minerals Challenge with Tommy Beaudreau (Part 2)
24:45
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24:45(Part 2 of 2) As global demand for AI, battery technology, and clean energy surges, critical minerals have become essential to powering innovation and protecting national security. To kick off our new series exploring the global race for these vital resources, Elisa sits down with Tommy Beaudreau, former Deputy Secretary of the Interior and Partner…
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This week is Tracy Chapman week on the pod! We add her gorgeous and heartbreaking hit "Fast Car" to our Ultimate Country Playlist. Unsure if it's country? Well, after it became a No. 1 country hit with minimal changes when covered by Luke Combs, Rolling Stone named it one of the 200 greatest country songs of all time. Plus, we think it rocks and it…
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Elemental Power: Mining, Markets, and the Critical Minerals Challenge with Tommy Beaudreau (Part 1)
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30:07As global demand for AI, battery technology, and clean energy surges, critical minerals have become essential to powering innovation and protecting national security. To kick off our new series exploring the global race for these vital resources, Elisa sits down with Tommy Beaudreau, former Deputy Secretary of the Interior and Partner at WilmerHale…
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News Roundup: RedNote, Russia, and NSLT's Upcoming Energy Series
9:45
9:45
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9:45This week, Elisa highlights a few of the latest national security headlines, and sets the stage for our upcoming series on the energy grid and the critical minerals essential for AI development. References Check out the Standing Committee on Law and National Security’s latest video series, Strengthening Democracy: A Civics Education Series for Mili…
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We've been waiting to do a Bob Dylan episode for years and the film A Complete Unknown is just the excuse we were looking for! This week Danny and Tyler discuss the late 60's era of Dylan's career where he became a country crooner. Post-electric and pre-religious, this is a beautiful time in Dylan's eclectic catalog. "Country Pie" from Nashville Sk…
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Revisiting the Intricacies of Senate Confirmations with Arnold Punaro
28:35
28:35
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28:35With the confirmations process well underway, we're taking a fresh look at how it all works. Revisiting a conversation from this past December, Elisa sits down with retired Marine Corps Major General Arnold Punaro, a veteran of Capitol Hill and author of If Confirmed: An Insider’s View of the National Security Process. Together, they explore the th…
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Country In Decline: A Look of the Inauguration Performances, w/ Danii Gallegos
57:39
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57:39Last week was the 2025 Inauguration, and of all the terrible things that happened, the most light-hearted had to be the musical performances. These performances included a number of—you guessed it—country acts, including Carrie Underwood, Jason Aldean, Lee Greenwood, and what's left of Billy Ray Cyrus. This week Tyler and Danny are joined by comedy…
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From Gaza to TikTok: Navigating the Year’s First Security Challenges
1:02:59
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1:02:59As 2025 unfolds, the new administration faces its first major national security challenges: preserving a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East and addressing the contentious TikTok legal battle. In this week’s double episode, Elisa first speaks with Brian Egan, former Legal Adviser at the Department of State, to unpack the Gaza ceasefire, the role o…
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It's been 2025 for a couple weeks now, but we're still thinking about these incredible country and Americana albums from last year. In a year where everyone from giant pop stars to indie rock darlings were exploring country sounds it was hard to narrow our favorite albums down to just five. Hear what albums Danny and Tyler chose, and where they ove…
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The TikTok Timer: National Security and the Race to a Ruling with Glenn Gerstell
24:15
24:15
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24:15The Supreme Court has heard the case that could decide TikTok’s fate in the U.S. This week, Glenn Gerstell returns with Elisa Poteat to discuss the national security concerns that sparked the legal challenge and the broader implications of the hearing. Together, they examine ByteDance’s key arguments, the government’s case, and how a ruling could r…
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From 2024 to 2025: The Shifts Reshaping National Security with Harvey Rishikof
43:30
43:30
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43:30As the new year unfolds, how have 2024’s defining national security moments set the stage for what’s ahead? This week, Elisa Poteat is joined by Harvey Rishikof, former chair of the ABA Standing Committee on Law and National Security, for a big-picture review of the past year. Together, they discuss emerging challenges in geopolitics, AI’s growing …
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It's a special BONUS Christmas episode! This week Danny and Tyler discuss Red Simpson's Country Christmas concept album "Truckers' Christmas." We hope you enjoy and we'll see ya in 2025! Check out our Patreon! Check out our new merch store! Instagram: @TakeThisPodandShoveIt For everything else click HERE! Want to create your own great podcast? Why …
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The History and Impact of Recess Appointments with Neil Eggleston
45:16
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45:16How does a centuries-old constitutional power continue to influence the modern balance of government? This week, Elisa speaks with Neil Eggleston, former White House Counsel to President Obama, to delve into the history and controversies surrounding recess appointments. Together, they explore the historical roots of this executive power, landmark c…
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TikTok’s Legal Challenges: National Security, Data, and Foreign Influence with Glenn Gerstell
37:33
37:33
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37:33TikTok’s growing influence and its connections to national security remain hot topics in Washington. This week, Elisa sits down with Glenn Gerstell, former General Counsel of the National Security Agency, to examine the legal battles surrounding TikTok, including a recent D.C. Circuit Court ruling. Together, they unpack the implications of foreign …
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If Confirmed: Arnold Punaro on the Intricacies of Senate Confirmations (Part 2)
30:48
30:48
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30:48(Part 2 of 2) The nominations and confirmations process is a cornerstone of American governance, but how does it actually work? Continuing our discussion on the confirmation process, Elisa sits down with retired Marine Corps Major General Arnold Punaro, a veteran of Capitol Hill and author of If Confirmed: An Insider’s View of the National Security…
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82: "If We Make it Through December" by Merle Haggard
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42:55For our annual Christmas episode, Danny and Tyler add Merle Haggard's hard-timin' working-class classic to the Ultimate Country Playlist. For all the joy it brings, December can still be a pretty rough month. Merle knows your pain, so give this tune a listen! Follow the link below to keep up with which songs are being added to our Ultimate Country …
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If Confirmed: Arnold Punaro on the Intricacies of Senate Confirmations (Part 1)
27:40
27:40
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27:40The nominations and confirmations process is a cornerstone of American governance, but how does it actually work? Continuing our discussion on the confirmation process, Elisa sits down with retired Marine Corps Major General Arnold Punaro, a veteran of Capitol Hill and author of If Confirmed: An Insider’s View of the National Security Process. Toge…
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81: "Gunpowder & Lead" by Miranda Lambert, w/ Dewey Lovett
57:51
57:51
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57:51This week Danny and Tyler are joined by comedian and author Dewey Lovett (new book DRINKSGIVING out now!) to discuss CMA darling Miranda Lambert, and add her revenge banger "Gunpowder & Lead" to our ultimate country playlist! Follow the link below to keep up with which songs are being added to our Ultimate Country Playlist on Spotify https://tinyur…
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From Nominee to Leader: Navigating the Confirmation Process with Erik Swabb
40:27
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40:27From vetting nominees to navigating Senate committees, the process of appointing leaders in the Executive Branch is both intricate and essential. This week, Elisa Poteat welcomes Erik Swabb, Partner at WilmerHale and former General Counsel of the Senate Armed Services Committee, to demystify the confirmation process. Together, they explore how nomi…
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The Presidential Pardon: Controversies and Limits with Helen Bollwerk (RECAST)
1:07:45
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1:07:45This week, Elisa revisits her conversation with longtime former Pardon Attorney, Helen Bollwerk, to unpack the presidential pardoning process. Together, they explore the procedural regulations, judicial precedents, past controversies, and the pressing question of whether a president-elect can pardon himself. Helen Bollwerk served as a pardon attorn…
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This week Tyler and Danny present three classic protest country songs that are [unfortunately] still relevant, especially given the results of last week's election. Likely there are more country tunes that stick it to the Man comin', but in this week please enjoy "Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore" by John Prine, "Oval Room" by Blaz…
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