https://www.spreaker.com/show/middle-theoryenPoliticsCopyright Micah Hankshttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/39b454e47a5a8b7aedacb2921676043f.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/show/middle-theoryFri, 16 Jun 2023 12:25:02 +0000Micah HanksMicah Hanksfeeds@spreaker.comMental Forays into the Radical Center.trueepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/exit-strategy-08-30-21--46321503baa92175-eb8a-4775-ba3b-989cbd1aa1b4Wed, 01 Sep 2021 01:17:11 +0000Micah HanksThis week, as the deadline for withdrawal from Afghanistan arrives, we survey the current situation as Biden's exit strategy unfolds overseas, as well as the recent power situation resulting from Hurricane Ida. 2623afghanistan,biden,hurricaneida,isil,lousiana,taliban,uswithdrawalfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/deadlines-08-23-21--46220581803510e7-e538-4fa2-849f-150574432394Tue, 24 Aug 2021 17:19:10 +0000Micah HanksThis week, as the deadline for U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan looms nearer, we look at the challenges the Biden Administration faces as the Taliban warns of potential "consequences." 3425afghanistan,alqaeda,biden,isil,taliban,uswithdrawalfromafghanistanfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/afghanistan-withdrawal-syndrome-08-16-21--46131042edb2645b-4631-4de6-9c9a-fef7f1dba3b0Tue, 17 Aug 2021 18:03:46 +0000Micah HanksThis week, as chaos erupts in Afghanistan following the withdrawal of U.S. forces and the sudden encroachment of the Taliban, we analyze the Biden Administration's actions and responses to the situation. 4227afghanistan,bidenadministration,campdavid,haiti,taliban,usmilitary,withdrawalfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/climate-code-red-08-09-21--46046894d310ad63-33bd-47d4-aa51-f49c412a2b7eWed, 11 Aug 2021 02:17:55 +0000Micah HanksFollowing the release of a new IPCC report on climate, we look at what experts from around the world have called a "code red" for our planet, and the factors involving politics, science, and other elements in the climate debate.2894andrewcuomo,barackobama,climatechange,covid19,ipcc,newyorkfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/of-masks-and-mandates-08-02-21--4595034568010237-9e75-4604-bdcd-4c5b8bad8e0aTue, 03 Aug 2021 12:44:34 +0000Micah HanksPublic outcry and confusion ensue after the CDC reverses its public recommendations on wearing masks, and mandates may be on the horizon as President Biden moves toward requiring coronavirus vaccinations among federal employees.5265coronavirus,covid,freedom,individualrights,infrastructure,joebiden,mandate,masks,pandemic,vaccinefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/look-at-the-numbers-07-26-21--45861772cebae94d-adc6-44ae-8ed2-64857b67c4b1Tue, 27 Jul 2021 17:52:28 +0000Micah HanksThis week, we look at the numbers as COVID-19 infections rise among America's unvaccinated. As the "Summer Outbreak" ensues, what does the data really say?3415afghanistan,ai,china,covid19,pandemic,russiafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/spywary-07-19-21--457807065f70d0f5-0517-4146-b30b-90cc4ca2445bWed, 21 Jul 2021 02:32:33 +0000Micah HanksThis week, we examine the widespread surveillance of journalists with the aid of military spyware, as well recent hacking efforts that led to an official response from the Biden Administration. 3189biden,californiawildfires,china,covid19,hacking,pegasusspyware,spywarefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/afghanistan-leaving-the-forever-war-07-12-21--45694593153a44b9-1680-4c75-b44e-c0bc8997e62fWed, 14 Jul 2021 14:27:34 +0000Micah HanksAs the United States makes its exit from the "Forever War" in Afghanistan, we look at the problems the country may face, and why history shows that choosing to leave is both the "least worst" and the only right choice. 2890falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/independence-day-07-05-21--4558835924e6b665-3b42-4602-ae6a-91ad693572ccMon, 05 Jul 2021 22:56:57 +0000Micah HanksThis week, we examine the foundations of the American celebration of Independence Day, its relationship to 21st-century American politics, and the influence of the coronavirus pandemic. 2988allisonmack,billcosby,ccp,china,donaldrumsfeld,donaldtrump,independencedayfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/strike-two-06-28-21--45500518b269af67-89a3-4822-8eac-3133c6714f9eTue, 29 Jun 2021 21:34:20 +0000Micah HanksThis week we examine Joe Biden's second military action since taking office, its similarity to the actions of past administrations, and how this compares with shifting political alliances in our culture and popular dialogue. 3410airstrikes,glenngreenwald,iran,joebiden,miami,samharris,supremecourt,syriafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-most-dangerous-scenario-06-21-21--4539856065b3892b-0c9c-4f6b-b58a-2081af2c0c04Tue, 22 Jun 2021 14:27:06 +0000Micah HanksThis week we analyze U.S. President Joe Biden's meeting with Vladimir Putin, the media responses, and what one foreign policy scholar called the "most dangerous scenario." 3486falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/g7-the-country-club-06-14-21--453132991a967e7c-9f79-42ea-ba1b-4034dab06527Tue, 15 Jun 2021 16:27:20 +0000Micah HanksThis week we examine the recent G7 Summit and responses to the meeting between world leaders over their goals toward unifying against threats from Russia and China. 2777benjaminnetanyahu,china,g7summit,israel,joebiden,kammalaharris,vladimirputinfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-rise-of-ransomware-06-07-21--45219332d2c8d942-b77b-426d-aafc-a85747158f2eTue, 08 Jun 2021 18:23:38 +0000Micah HanksThis week, with ransomware incidents on the rise, we examine how the world economy can be affected by cybercrime, and what various countries are doing to prevent such attacks. 2687biden,bipartisanship,infrastructureplan,joemanchin,kamalaharris,ransomware,trumpfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/conflicting-theories-06-01-21--45138826d2bdefc6-b974-42b2-991e-475cf9232c68Wed, 02 Jun 2021 16:52:30 +0000Micah HanksConflicting theories about the origins of COVID-19 continue to make news, with U.S. politicians pushing for investigations into whether it originated from a lab in Wuhan, China. 2998covid,lloydaustin,memorialday,originsofcovid19,tedcruzfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/state-sponsored-hijacking-05-24-21--450350135594553d-2276-4ad7-9986-110068dc46daTue, 25 May 2021 17:48:51 +0000Micah HanksControversy ensues over international laws being broken during the forced landing by the Belarusian military of a Ryanair commercial airliner carrying a dissident journalist. 2587belarus,biden,bitcoin,coronavirus,covidlaborigin,ether,putin,ryanair,statesponsoredhijackingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/eruption-israeli-palestinian-conflict-05-17-21--4489682636fbc331-51da-446c-b10a-88ec01f31c59Tue, 18 May 2021 17:45:31 +0000Micah HanksConflict has erupted again between Israel and Palestine, resulting in Israel's controversial choice in striking a residential building where Hamas operations purportedly were taking place. 2702falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/zucked-05-10-21--44771451f1ec7d90-78ef-481c-bb7f-7332dd70824aWed, 12 May 2021 12:49:01 +0000Micah HanksThis week, we look at the problems arising from Facebook's Oversight Board refusing to make decisions for the company about the ongoing ban of Donald Trump from its platform. 2671donaldtrump,facebook,gasshortage,markzuckerberg,oversightboard,pipeline,zuckedfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/celebrity-in-chief-05-03-21--4462505663a67952-06f1-4c2e-9c69-b8e97ae60271Tue, 04 May 2021 13:30:23 +0000Micah HanksThis week, we look at the phenomenon of the "celebrity politician", as well as how celebrity culture is influencing politicians who aren't famous before they enter office.2828andrewyang,caitlinjenner,celebrity,covid19celebritypolitician,joebiden,matthewmcconaughey,therockfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/guilty-as-charged-04-26-21--445151233106012a-ace4-4b6f-8209-060fad79546bTue, 27 Apr 2021 15:48:05 +0000Micah HanksThis week, as former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin is found guilty of all charges related to the death of George Floyd, we look at the impact this case has had on society, its cultural significance, and the variety of responses to the...2973covid19,derekchauvin,georgefloyd,joebiden,secondamendmentfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/closing-arguments-04-19-21--4439899233d005a2-9676-4e27-aa4f-5d59b10966edMon, 19 Apr 2021 21:54:08 +0000Micah HanksClosing arguments are made in the trial of Derek Chauvin, as people in Minneapolis and around the country prepare for the announcement of the verdict. 3240covid19,derekchauvin,georgefloyd,georgewbush,joebiden,minneapolisfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cause-for-pause-04-14-21--44345686d1e53955-92e9-4a97-a376-a19429c9b9e3Thu, 15 Apr 2021 14:10:06 +0000Micah HanksThis week, the use of the Johnson & Johnson one-shot COVID-19 vaccine is paused, raising questions and concerns, as well as setbacks for President Biden's vaccination effort. 3248falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/deadly-force-04-06-21--442440475abc1258-4734-4fd0-b21f-e48a71510e99Wed, 07 Apr 2021 17:05:40 +0000Micah HanksAs the trial of Derek Chauvin proceeds, we look at statements from police and medical professionals who call the death of George Floyd the result of "deadly force." 2716falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-the-press-03-29-21--441166738ff31160-f529-4342-b2c3-26b612cfb146Tue, 30 Mar 2021 15:18:32 +0000Micah HanksThis week, President Biden's first press conference raises eyebrows as reporters asked the commander-in-chief about immigration, the filibuster, foreign policy, and more.3818filibuster,foreignpolicy,georgia,immigration,jimcrow,joebiden,pressconference,votingrightsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/takes-one-to-know-one-03-22-21--44017736cc057c1d-9e18-431e-be2c-654698fff2bfTue, 23 Mar 2021 15:30:34 +0000Micah HanksThings heat up between the United States and Russia, as statements by President Joe Biden during a recent ABC interview raise bipartisan concerns about U.S. foreign policy. 2571atlanta,boulder,china,covid19,foreignpolicy,joebiden,russia,shooting,vladimirputinfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-cuomo-connundrum-03-17-21--43950562a07b7b09-eb3a-44f5-9c18-352d34e0d517Thu, 18 Mar 2021 17:04:41 +0000Micah HanksThis week, we look at the ongoing scandal surrounding New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, and the uneasy position where it has left Democratic leaders including President Biden and Vice President Harris. 3040biden,covid19,cuomo,harrisfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/talk-of-the-crown-03-08-21--43814315ec7987f7-8cc2-4bea-98b4-b77b297a4a26Tue, 09 Mar 2021 18:36:54 +0000Micah HanksThis week, the British Royal Family is placed under renewed public scrutiny following a "bombshell" interview with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. 2798britain,cdc,freedom,harryandmeghan,oprah,royalfamily,talkofthecrownfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/first-strike-03-02-21--437232884ca9c531-1624-458c-aac4-d22b7fa93416Wed, 03 Mar 2021 17:34:13 +0000Micah HanksIn the first military action of his Presidency, Joe Biden orders an airstrike on Syria which results in backlash from Congressional Democrats.2901andrewcuomo,congress,cpac,deepstate,donaldtrump,firststrike,joebiden,syriafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cointelpro-confessions-02-24-21--436364555d96bff7-a7a7-4d14-be77-b7e90cea0016Thu, 25 Feb 2021 15:33:41 +0000Micah HanksThis week, in addition to news we look at recent developments regarding the assassination of Malcolm X, a deathbed confession, and its alleged relationship to the intelligence community's COINTELPRO operations. 3012berniesanders,blackpanthers,cointelpro,donaldtrump,fredhampton,malcolmx,mittromney,nationofislam,populism,ronpaulfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/end-of-an-era-02-17-21--435308371e6b55b5-7f66-4844-a288-4e57cd900128Thu, 18 Feb 2021 17:31:12 +0000Micah HanksThis week, with the passing of conservative radio personality Rush Limbaugh, we look at the significance of his career on American politics and the rise and fall of Donald Trump. 3751acquittal,capitolsiege,donaldtrump,impeachment,rushlimbaughfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-s-left-for-the-right-02-10-21--434080748801f8bc-095a-42e6-aca0-a119dc7c6cdbThu, 11 Feb 2021 21:01:37 +0000Micah HanksAs a second attempt at the impeachment of Donald Trump leads off, we look at opening arguments and new information about January's siege on the Capitol.3221falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-cult-of-trump-02-02-21--43269104bbf75f68-a676-4002-a173-00d1dfb7f062Wed, 03 Feb 2021 15:38:53 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at upsets within the GOP as Bush-era Republicans announce their departure from the party, which some call the "Cult of Trump."3899bushrepublicans,cultoftrump,donaldtrump,gamestop,gop,joebiden,robinhood,superbowlfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/executive-hors-d-oeuvres-01-27-21--43154604a92dd3c1-5f9c-4bf3-9935-ff700c3179edThu, 28 Jan 2021 01:08:47 +0000Micah HanksThis week we examine the first few days of Joe Biden’s presidency, and the high volume of executive orders it has produced.3374bidenadministration,doomsdayclock,executive,joebidenfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/last-call-01-19-21--4301774689054e5c-4361-469b-9e37-0404ab9e3c8cTue, 19 Jan 2021 22:49:47 +0000Micah HanksWith less than 24 hours left in Donald J. Trump's presidency, we reflect on the changes that have taken place in the last four years, and what they mean for the future. 38632021,capitolhill,democratparty,donaldtrump,inauguration,joebiden,kamalaharris,republicanpartyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/final-daze-01-11-21--42901837eb78a3a5-5daa-4be6-aa88-e75c08cd9f0fTue, 12 Jan 2021 16:03:24 +0000Micah HanksIn the "final daze" of Donald Trump's administration, the atmosphere is tense as new calls for his removal from office ensue following the siege on the U.S. Capitol Building. 478325thamendment,capitolbuilding,donaldtrump,finaldaze,impeachmentfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-last-stand-01-06-21--428200262e17807d-0d4c-4912-8b35-37d89f9f81a5Wed, 06 Jan 2021 23:20:02 +0000Micah HanksAs we kick off a new year, chaos ensues in Washington as protesters flood the Capitol Building, interrupting the Senate's Electoral College Certification. 2706electoralcollege,joebiden,mikepence,protest,trump,washington,washingtondcfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-blind-spot-12-21-20--426164817747e97d-0117-46c5-83a5-24e140988d30Tue, 22 Dec 2020 17:47:30 +0000Micah HanksThis week as we conclude the unprecedented year that has been 2020, we look at issues surrounding the White House as the arrival of the new administration in January approaches.3323chrischristie,donaldtrump,geraldorivera,joebiden,michaelflynn,mikepence,reliefbill,sidneypowell,williambarrfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/12-14-20-pardon-me--424887818cdd0ea3-733c-44dd-bed1-f7e51599016fMon, 14 Dec 2020 21:44:22 +0000Micah HanksAs speculation ensues about whether Donald Trump will issue pardons during his final days in office, many are weighing in on whether Wikileaks founder Julian Assange may be on the list.2771assange,covid19,donaldtrump,hacking,presidentialpardon,russia,vaccine,wikileaksfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-vice-presidents-12-08-20--42406807cb434416-7d8f-4263-8825-b03545dc423fWed, 09 Dec 2020 22:47:56 +0000Micah HanksThis week, we examine Vice President-elect Kamala Harris's ambitions, and what some Democratic insiders are saying about their former boss and her role in the forthcoming Biden Administration.2783bobdylan,covid19,election2020,joebiden,kamalaharris,rudygiuliani,vicepresidentfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/information-warfare-11-30-20--4227173630cf83fc-bc1c-4dad-9245-aebe365f2d2dWed, 02 Dec 2020 03:48:38 +0000Micah HanksArizona, Pennsylvania, and other states continue to be a source of confusion and controversy in the aftermath of the 2020 Election as the coronavirus pandemic ensues. 3189arizona,biden,election2020,electionfraud,libertarian,pandemic,trumpfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/thanksgiving-in-quarantine-11-24-20--4216422576aabebe-88cb-4503-b42f-440ceeb5c83dWed, 25 Nov 2020 18:20:25 +0000Micah HanksAs the holidays arrive in midst of the 2020 pandemic, we look at how travel and family gatherings are being affected this Thanksgiving. 3093cdc,covid19,donaldtrump,election2020,holidaytravel,joebiden,quarantine,randyquaid,thanksgiving,vaccinesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-great-concession-11-16-20--4202025036563160-9a03-41a8-a120-8604e1681605Tue, 17 Nov 2020 13:49:33 +0000Micah HanksControversy ensues as President Trump refuses to concede the election to Joe Biden, amidst continued calls of voter fraud and the President's claim that the election was rigged.3272donaldtrump,election,joebiden,nationalreview,voterfraudfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/after-the-storm-11-10-20--41926941d6d6f1b7-9067-4921-9d5f-1bb19cbae965Wed, 11 Nov 2020 20:27:25 +0000Micah HanksWith the 2020 election behind us and Joe Biden the projected winner, we examine what the results really tell us about the election and the American people.4274donaldtrump,election2020,joebiden,kamalaharris,lostinagallup,mediabias,mikepence,polling,voterfraud,wjosephcampbellfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/election-2020-11-03-20--41781509b8058531-fbba-4a70-ab3e-c797fff2ab59Tue, 03 Nov 2020 20:34:48 +0000Micah HanksElection Day has finally arrived... and we analyze all of the news leading up to this highly anticipated election between incumbent Donald Trump, and Democratic challenger Joe Biden. 4266democrat,donaldtrump,election2020,facebook,glenngreenwald,jamescarville,joebiden,polls,republican,socialmedia,twitterfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/invasion-of-the-ballot-snatchers-10-26-20--416684871b5ba662-1ce5-4af6-ae72-422eb325943cTue, 27 Oct 2020 19:45:52 +0000Micah HanksWith just one week until the U.S. Presidential Election of 2020, we look at the final debate performance and factors that could lead to an upset on November 3rd.3245amyconeybarrett,biden,covid19,election2020,michigan,pennsylvania,polls,swingstates,trumpfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/october-surprises-10-19-20--41555224b655f650-3cf3-405d-87fb-3df9ae7f5e65Tue, 20 Oct 2020 17:19:10 +0000Micah HanksAs the 2020 Presidential Election fast approaches, we discuss "dueling town halls," the controversy surrounding Hunter Biden's laptop and its possible connections to Russian Intelligence.4445conspiracy,donaldtrump,election2020,fbi,hunterbiden,joebiden,johnratcliffe,russianintelligence,townhallfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/grin-and-barrett-10-12-20--41441292cd82d30e-5f4b-4eb3-b242-12d8ef0bdda3Tue, 13 Oct 2020 16:10:23 +0000Micah HanksThis week we recap the 2020 Vice Presidential Debate, along with commentary on the beginning of controversial Senate Confirmation Hearings for prospective Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett. 3323amyconeybarrett,donaldtrum,election2020,joebiden,kamalaharris,mikepence,vicepresidentialdebatesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/potus-positive-10-05-20--4133348464935503-7c32-4b92-a973-8d402e9a4898Tue, 06 Oct 2020 21:00:12 +0000Micah HanksIn the aftermath of the debacle that was the first Presidential Debate of 2020, our focus shifts to the developing story involving President Donald Trump's contracting COVID-19, and what that means as America, and the rest of the world, continue to...2997covid19,debate2020,election2020,mikepence,potus,whitehousecovid19outbreakfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/poll-dancing-09-28-20--41207283f94bb699-8dbb-4b0f-804e-3c50a504e90dTue, 29 Sep 2020 13:50:43 +0000Micah HanksAs the first Presidential Debate of 2020 fast approaches, we look at civil unrest in America as the polls continue to show a wide gap between candidates Joe Biden and Donald Trump.3533amyconeybarrett,breonnataylor,debate,donaldtrump,election2020,joebiden,kentucky,protest,ruthbaderginsburgfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-critical-hour-09-21-20--41066427c3235382-1d01-4f56-bbc2-822bc5b22823Tue, 22 Sep 2020 17:04:25 +0000Micah HanksFollowing the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, questions about her successor add a new layer of complexity to the heated 2020 Election. 2686falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/toxicity-09-14-20--409171178c2e5c29-a0e4-48a1-9149-2a102b376bcdTue, 15 Sep 2020 17:07:24 +0000Micah HanksFollowing confirmation of the poisoning of Russian opposition figure and anti-corruption activist Alexei Navalny, we look at international dynamics on the eve of the Russian elections. 2441alexeinavalny,coronavirus,donaldtrump,germany,joebiden,novichok,russia,uselection,vladimirputinfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-heat-is-on-09-07-20--407804056d5a0b48-5e8a-4ec2-bb34-74c056ce8dc3Tue, 08 Sep 2020 19:04:26 +0000Micah HanksThis week in addition to election news, we examine the devastating wildfires in California, and how record temperatures are leading to widespread power shortages. 2862authentic,californiawildfires,donaldtrump,election2020,joebiden,julianassange,kentuckyderby,portland,protest,rochester,spithood,usopenfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/protest-nation-08-31-20--40636450b411f294-31ae-49a5-ac21-853ac4364ab0Tue, 01 Sep 2020 16:24:31 +0000Micah HanksThis week we recap the RNC Convention and other news, before turning our attention to a special report on the recent protests in Kenosha, Wisconsin following the police shooting of Jacob Blake. 4502falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/un-vention-2020-dnc-082420--404871730e7219ad-e765-447d-8f94-28b50d13839bTue, 25 Aug 2020 14:33:49 +0000Micah HanksThis week we recap the main themes presented during the 2020 DNC virtual convention and its formal choice of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominees. 2790californiawildfires,coronavirus,dnc,election2020,flintwatercrisis,joebiden,kamalaharris,stevebannonfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/vp-for-a-vp-08-16-20--403953804106225c-cdca-4945-a621-563c2eb69b06Tue, 18 Aug 2020 23:44:24 +0000Micah HanksThis week, we analyze the news leading up to Joe Biden's selection of Kamala Harris as his running mate for his bid for President in the 2020 Election. 2786democraticnationalconvention,donaldtrump,election2020,handsanitizer,joebiden,johnboehner,kamalaharris,millieweaverfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/blast-in-beirut-08-11-20--40272855974e8664-9b13-4362-9dbd-851221f7faabTue, 11 Aug 2020 20:14:15 +0000Micah HanksA recent devastating explosion in Lebanon's port city capital of Beirut has raised questions over the country's leaderhip, and the role that the international community will play in providing aid moving forward.2801beirut,covid19,donaldtrump,election2020,joebiden,lebanon,politics,protest,russia,seattle,vladimirputinfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/delayed-reaction-08-03-20--40158921ca441b45-9baf-4cbe-a658-a663786f314cWed, 05 Aug 2020 19:40:50 +0000Micah HanksAs President Trump floats the idea of delaying the 2020 election, questions over the use of private data by the DHS and security concerns surrounding the TikTok app take center stage. 2879delayedreaction,dhs,donaldtrump,election2020,joebiden,kamalaharris,politico,portlandprotests,tiktokfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/rights-vs-riots-07-27-20--400222606ba1fa8d-ae96-4cf0-8012-8fad1c85c468Tue, 28 Jul 2020 18:31:17 +0000Micah HanksThis week, as violent protests continue around the United States, we look at the controversial deployment of federal authorities to locations like Portland, Oregon, and the justification for this given by the DHS. 2848dhs,federalauthorities,federallawenforcement,georgefloyd,joebiden,kamalaharris,medicalmask,portland,riot,seattle,violentprotestsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/contact-tracing-07-20-20--39887144345709d2-3997-4b17-9c6c-1e02b20e2c15Tue, 21 Jul 2020 19:50:38 +0000Micah HanksAs questions loom over the use of federal law enforcement to curb protests in Portland and other places, we look at the fine line between contact tracing technologies and the erosion of privacy. 3324contacttracing,covid,johnlewis,nakedathena,pandemic,portland,protest,traderjoesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/antiscience-the-truth-behind-the-mask-07-13-20--39763753a9659b49-bbc1-4eaf-ae93-ba052539f642Tue, 14 Jul 2020 17:56:24 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at antiscientific biases, how politics on both the left and the right can influence them, and why medical masks have become a political statement in America. 3269anthonyfauci,antiscience,coronavirus,election2020,medicalmask,pandemic,politicsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/who-was-jeffrey-epstein-06-06-20--376581223e865c0e-e4dd-4e14-a5b7-84204b3ecf7cWed, 08 Jul 2020 15:17:08 +0000Micah HanksWith the arrest of Jeffrey Epstein associate and former girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell, we examine questions about the late sex offender's fortune, whether he was as rich as some claim, and Epstein's possible connections to the intelligence community.3501donaldtrump,epsteindidntkillhimself,filthyrich,ghislainemaxwell,jeffreyepstein,soleimanifalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/common-sense-in-the-age-of-covid-06-29-20--35301332f2ff193e-3bca-4b58-9722-dce47099fc9aThu, 02 Jul 2020 01:17:46 +0000Micah HanksThis week we examine claims against the accuracy of former U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton's new book, and the ongoing struggle communities are facing in the age of the COVID-19 pandemic.3581brettweinstein,covid19,election2020,intellectualdarkweb,joebiden,johnbolton,pandemic,whofalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/got-tolerance-06-22-20--32690448dae32eee-f72d-4f1b-ab4e-2985282d3ff7Tue, 23 Jun 2020 18:27:32 +0000Micah HanksThis week as the quest for social justice ensues in America, we look at striking a balance between conflict and tolerance, and the controversies surrounding late-night hosts Jimmy Kimmel and Jimmy Fallon. 3580biden,forgiveness,jimmyfallon,jimmykimmel,socialmedia,supremecourt,tolerance,trumpfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/autonomy-or-anarchy-06-17-20--314621968bafff16-9e77-4987-bff8-0b0b7e204287Wed, 17 Jun 2020 16:12:36 +0000Micah HanksThe Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone in Seattle has aroused controversy over what some call a "takeover" by political activists in the city. But has media reporting on the situation been accurate, and does it represent autonomy, anarchy, or something else?4763anarchy,autonomy,capitalhillautonomouszone,chaz,donaldtrump,georgefloyd,joebiden,news,policereform,politics,seattle,socialissuesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-age-of-dissent-06-08-20--30154527d63a550a-aff1-45e7-9318-d148c3029101Wed, 10 Jun 2020 14:33:49 +0000Micah HanksThis week continues our analysis of the public response to George Floyd's killing and opposition by military leaders to President Donald Trump's desire to deploy the military in curbing violence during protests.4737antifa,blacklivesmatter,donaldtrump,dwaynejohnson,fbi,georgefloyd,insurrectionact,minneapolis,nypd,protestfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/justice-for-george-06-03-20--29025369d95236ad-960f-41de-97d5-91c1ad03d36aWed, 03 Jun 2020 16:04:10 +0000Micah HanksThis week we discuss the tragic killing of George Floyd, the historic social unrest that has resulted, and how political leaders have responded to protests now occurring around the world. 6178blacklivesmatter,donaldtrump,georgefloyd,insurrectionact,martiallaw,nationalguard,protest,riots,timmcmillanfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chief-of-gaffe-05-25-20--28393998823eec5d-d1b8-4c05-a0a2-380a676edf09Tue, 26 May 2020 22:39:21 +0000Micah HanksAs America slowly begins to reopen in the midst of COVID-19, controversy surrounds recent remarks made by presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden and President Donald Trump. 2710covid19,donaldtrump,gaffe,joebiden,joescarborough,statesovereignty,thebreakfastclub,usconstitutionfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-is-obamagate-mt-051820--27817938dac9e81d-f4b1-4670-88ab-0b9a7419ccccTue, 19 May 2020 22:42:41 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at the alleged "Obamagate" scandal, the claims behind it, what they actually mean, and the "righteous quibbling" that has resulted. 3225barackobama,donaldtrump,election2020,jamescomey,joebiden,michaelflynn,obamagate,williambarrfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/spy-claims-05-11-20--27445796a2096685-5220-4061-849c-ccfc8dcca707Wed, 13 May 2020 01:09:57 +0000Micah HanksAs the media begins to speculate about the origins of the coronavirus outbreak, we analyze and compare contrasting views expressed by U.S. Intelligence and the scientific community. 4053ahmaudarbery,coronavirus,covid19,donaldtrump,election2020,joebiden,pandemic,spyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/spy-vs-sci-05-05-20--2744580784fa9f9f-d7c1-451a-a76d-894e01094d6cWed, 06 May 2020 01:43:53 +0000Micah HanksThis week, spy games ensue as intelligence agencies are pressed by American politicians to dig up information from foreign sources on the coronavirus. 3073falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/04-27-20-project-manhattan--2744580018670d48-9555-4cc8-8361-1d848e47db49Tue, 28 Apr 2020 21:00:32 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at doctors and medical professionals who are laying out a strategic plan to combat COVID-19, and the timescale for producing an effective vaccine. 3145coronavirus,covid19,disinfectant,lockdown,manhattanproject,newyork,tarareade,trump,vaccinefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/04-21-20-liberty-or-death--27445812c3c8dea4-b0ef-4745-90dd-7d533f2d8ce4Wed, 22 Apr 2020 15:26:12 +0000Micah HanksWhile the federal government weighs options on reopening the economy, protests erupt as Americans proclaim "Liberty or Death," arguing that their rights are being infringed upon in the midst of the coronavirus lockdowns.3295constitution,coronavirus,covid19,donaldtrump,election2020,libertyordeath,lockdown,martiallaw,northkorea,pandemic,protest,statesovereignty,williambarrfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/04-13-20-red-dawn--27445810c512ae87-e82e-4c18-bfd3-6584120678f5Tue, 14 Apr 2020 21:41:57 +0000Micah HanksThis week Bernie and Obama endorse Biden, while a controversial series of emails dubbed "Red Dawn" illustrates America's slow response to the COVID-19 outbreak. 4210authoritarian,barackobama,berniesanders,coronavirus,covid19,donaldtrump,endorsement,joebiden,pandemic,reddawnfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/04-06-20-deadly-nonsense--27445799a2089609-a8fc-4b0d-bb0b-6e340c8ec781Tue, 07 Apr 2020 17:17:59 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at U.S. intelligence reports indicating that China is concealing information on the coronavirus, ever-changing reports about the use of medical masks, and other bad or conflicting information in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. 4270borisjohnson,cdc,china,coronavirus,deadlynonsense,donaldtrump,ericweinstein,joebiden,joeexotic,joerogan,netflix,tigerking,whofalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/03-31-20-buying-time--274458185b096920-4933-4135-97c0-398759eff5e2Wed, 01 Apr 2020 18:29:01 +0000Micah HanksAs Washington passes the CARES Act, buying time for Americans who are out of work and stuck at home, we look at the economic effects of the pandemic situation, and the usual partisan spin presented by politicians and the media. 4351bailout,caresact,coronavirus,covid19,donaldtrump,flatteningthecurve,nancypelosi,pandemic,socialdistancing,stevebannonfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/03-23-20-flattening-the-curve--27445823ebbd4d8c-390c-43dc-9709-8ab1f6d84b9eWed, 25 Mar 2020 15:17:19 +0000Micah HanksAs the coronavirus pandemic situation continues we look at "flattening the curve" and speak with people in affected areas like New York, and look at partisanship in Washington that could be harmful to Americans in need.  5120coronavirus,flatteningthecurve,pandemic,partisanship,stimulus,washingtonfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/03-18-20-social-distancing--27445808f36e50ca-1c24-4041-9163-d505615843aeThu, 19 Mar 2020 18:48:20 +0000Micah HanksAs the 2020 COVI-19 pandemic continues, we look at human psychology in response to the spread of the coronavirus and "social distancing." 4485coronavirus,coronavirustaskforce,covid19,flu,mortalityrate,pandemic,panicbuying,socialdistancing,trumpadministrationfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/03-10-20-infodemic-covid-19--2744581778d7ecd4-59d8-4791-8204-7bb036ac857bWed, 11 Mar 2020 17:49:05 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition, we look at the latest developments with the COVID-19 coronavirus, as the World Health Organization announces the virus has reached pandemic scale.3715berniesanders,coronavirus,covid19,donaldtrump,election2020,joebiden,pandemic,worldhealthorganizationfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/03-05-20-biden-country--2744581638770a24-a253-4f47-a753-b1ca5a3543c2Thu, 05 Mar 2020 22:15:14 +0000Micah HanksFollowing an explosive Super Tuesday turnout, Joe Biden reemerges as the front runner in the 2020 Democratic Primary race. 42862020,bernie,biden,bloomberg,donald,election,elizabeth,joe,michael,sanders,super,trump,tuesday,warrenfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/02-25-20-silence-is-golden--27445834da7e4855-fc2c-4d5e-9d18-20b365301ca1Wed, 26 Feb 2020 00:16:46 +0000Micah HanksAs Election 2020 continues, former President Obama is keeping quiet as an increasingly divisive group of Democratic candidates fight for the nomination. 3570falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/02-19-20-beg-your-pardon--274458350e72c7aa-888e-4102-8f22-0a4856097cf8Thu, 20 Feb 2020 01:01:07 +0000Micah HanksThis week, clemency has been granted to a number of criminal associates of Donald Trump, and news surfaces that Wikileaks founder Julian Assange was also allegedly offered a pardon... for a price. 39062020,assange,bannon,bill,blagojevich,democratic,donald,election,julian,maher,pardon,primaries,rod,roger,steve,stone,trumpfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/02-12-20-alternate-realities--274458277343e906-3179-4dd3-a10b-3811fc2706ceThu, 13 Feb 2020 03:58:13 +0000Micah HanksThis week the mainstream media reports on the Democratic Primaries from an alternate dimension, and Trump takes a victory lap after his acquittal by Senate Republicans.3191falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/02-04-20-gaslighting--27445956a0f34491-e73b-4d88-8107-ae7192b4d4c7Wed, 05 Feb 2020 16:33:47 +0000Micah HanksThis week as the Iowa Caucus implodes, an influential podcaster becomes the latest victim of "Cancel Culture" courtesy of Gaslighting by the mainstream media. 4273bernie,cancel,caucus,cnn,culture,donald,fake,gaslighting,iowa,joe,limbaugh,news,rogan,rush,sanders,trumpfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/01-30-20-got-impeachmilk--2744596852cbb0e2-9c63-467a-9e73-c38f02c62090Wed, 29 Jan 2020 22:38:02 +0000Micah HanksThis week, "Impeachmilk" and other bizarre ideas are on the table as the bizarre rules and hidden secrets of the Senate Impeachment are revealed.3311bryant,got,impeachment,impeachmilk,kobe,mcconnell,milk,mitch,mitt,romney,senatefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/01-23-20-two-s-company--2744582038b689c3-491a-4645-8b74-8914e5a57009Thu, 23 Jan 2020 23:25:36 +0000Micah HanksThis week, political hijinks in advance of the Iowa Caucus lead to a Democratic Debacle, and Double Trouble as the New York Times endorses two candidates. 4844falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/01-14-20-iran-smacks-back--27445801c82ae499-1e2e-4f43-9840-ef74a45981beWed, 15 Jan 2020 22:33:15 +0000Micah HanksTensions rise as Iran retaliates following last week's eventful U.S. strike that killed Qassem Soleimani, and world leaders weigh the prospect of reimposing UN sanctions. 3771bernie,force,iran,nations,sanders,soleimani,space,trump,unitedfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/01-07-20-war-nerves-the-soleimani-strike--2744583213a94673-6df9-49c1-a419-1e3272992bdcWed, 08 Jan 2020 02:23:40 +0000Micah HanksTensions rise in the Middle East in the aftermath of a recent U.S. drone strike that killed Qasem Soleimani, an Iranian major general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. 51513,amendment,bush,donald,first,george,hw,iran,qasem,soleimani,tehran,trump,war,worldfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/12-28-19-era-of-orwell--274458152249c797-0675-45f5-b0f1-fec377b58efeSat, 28 Dec 2019 23:26:00 +0000Micah HanksAs 2019, and an entire decade draws to a close, we look at cultural trends and events in relation to George Orwell's influential novel, 1984, and its impact on Western thought. 50391984,2019,campbell,cold,donald,drone,george,joseph,newspeak,orwell,russia,star,surveillance,trump,war,warsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/12-20-19-house-rules--274459557afdf26a-cdd7-4e2a-ba67-27f1be45d2d1Fri, 20 Dec 2019 21:23:03 +0000Micah HanksThis week we examine the historic impeachment of Donald Trump, activist Greta Thunberg's selection as TIME "Person of the Year," and Boris Johnson's election win in the UK. 3695falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/12-02-19-london-bridge-attacks-redux--27445963b870a727-e0ad-443c-86af-30e183d50e48Mon, 02 Dec 2019 18:27:48 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at the recent stabbing attacks at London Bridge, and why attempts at regulation only make problems with terrorism threats more problematic. 3652bill,bridge,britain,college,cosby,debt,donald,fishmongers,great,hall,loan,london,norad,terrorism,trump,washingtonfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/11-25-19-code-burisma--27445958f093ffd8-bb53-4979-9150-42b3361cb29aWed, 27 Nov 2019 18:23:22 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at an apparent shift toward the center by many 2020 Presidential hopefuls, and key moments in the recent impeachment hearings in Washington.3892falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/11-19-19-when-in-rome--274459629b58eb85-2522-4454-98e6-c7582574c13fWed, 20 Nov 2019 15:20:24 +0000Micah HanksAs the 2019 impeachment proceedings continue, we take a look at its historic roots in ancient Rome, and the rationale the Founding Fathers gave for it in the United States. 4674ancient,ben,caesar,dave,donald,epstein,ides,impeachment,jeffrey,julius,kanye,malkin,march,michelle,of,rome,rubin,shapiro,trump,westfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/11-12-19-the-new-american-civil-war--274458055046c41e-fb3d-4911-b342-5b174dd1f1d1Wed, 13 Nov 2019 23:37:09 +0000Micah HanksThis week we examine one publication's concerns about a new "Civil War", and the science behind why Americans are more polarized than ever.4616falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10-05-19-of-madness-and-prophets--274458197444fa023f264805b521c69fc0e6db35Wed, 06 Nov 2019 13:28:10 +0000Micah HanksThis week, as we ponder the words of the "Mad Prophet" Howard Beale of Network fame, we look at Epstein updates and Election news in advance of 2020. 3713falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10-28-19-baghdadi-down--274458371c3be0d1cc2e4f7f8a70aad2a3695472Tue, 29 Oct 2019 20:34:04 +0000Micah HanksThis week on the podcast, we look at "zombie" politics in America, and the operation that led to the recent takedown of the leader of ISIL, as announced by the Trump administration.4332falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10-22-19-lynch-pinning--274458394d35b7573477431caf5782ae4826a3cbWed, 23 Oct 2019 00:01:09 +0000Micah HanksThis week Tulsi Gabbard becomes a target as Hillary Clinton weighs in on the 2020 Election, and historical perspectives are offered relating to Donald Trump's use of the word "lynching." 3659falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10-16-19-message-to-the-midwest--274459547b157de60b104848a4a4323a0a182ba4Thu, 17 Oct 2019 19:00:46 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at shifting attitudes among Americans in response to the recent Democratic Debate, and whether the Democratic message is one that voters in the Midwest can get behind. 4164falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10-11-19-the-drudge-retort--27445821026904265ef549189161999c21a9c93bFri, 11 Oct 2019 22:06:28 +0000Micah HanksThis week, we look at how the opinions of leading conservative media personalities like Matt Drudge are swaying public opinion in favor of Donald Trump's impeachment. 3817falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10-01-19-bullshit-a-theory--274458336f82f82a96ae44b8a56f8f07e28e03d1Wed, 02 Oct 2019 00:52:53 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of the podcast, we examine one professor's "Theory of Bullshit", the downfall of media in the Internet Age, and the ongoing saga of the attempt to impeach Donald Trump.4897falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/09-25-19-ukraine-calling--27445964331c3ad55221489d8d40f013d48cea5dWed, 25 Sep 2019 21:25:36 +0000Micah HanksThis week, impeachment proceedings ensue in the aftermath of a phone call between Donald Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky. 4339falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/09-17-19-locked-and-loaded--27445949e914eb1d9dae486e874b26249a4d3a0fWed, 18 Sep 2019 19:50:09 +0000Micah HanksOn this episode, we compare modern political life to Ancient Rome and look at Donald Trump's complicated relationship with the Middle East.3686falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/09-11-19-democracy-in-peril-in-the-shadow-of-9-11--27445957d2e4ca54878e4e16ac1e8dfa41da53fcThu, 12 Sep 2019 01:54:28 +0000Micah HanksThis week, on the eighteenth anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, we look at the divided attitudes in our country, and the notion that Democracy in America is failing. 3775falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/09-06-19-domestic-terrorism-the-war-of-the-words--27445959535942928b9d497db5bd9800929cf915Fri, 06 Sep 2019 18:09:25 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of the program, we look at how words are being weaponized in American political debate, and the ever-evolving definitions of "domestic terrorism."5226falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/08-31-19-the-divided-states-of-america--274459533f2568df0f8f4fd0a0655a8def93a0abSat, 31 Aug 2019 20:53:03 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of the program, we look at what ratings tell us about who Americans are paying attention to in the media, and how controversial reporting along partisan lines keeps us divided, and may mislead the public. 3998falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/08-22-19-of-tyranny-transhumanism-and-terrorism--274458295c3a861042cd440fa1b7a9aa2c74e1a9Thu, 22 Aug 2019 19:52:17 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at how the tech industry is reshaping the military-industrial complex, Jeffrey Epstein's bizarre transhumanist beliefs, and the recent riots in Hong Kong which China has compared to "terrorism." 3998falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/08-11-19-suicided--27445814467eeeea696242398477960e55bfdfd5Sun, 11 Aug 2019 16:01:21 +0000Micah HanksThis week, in light of the news about "apparent" reports of the billionaire sicko and sex offender Jeffery Epstein's "presumed" death by "apparent" suicide, we lead off by revisiting an FBI bulletin that raises concerns about what happens when the...5060falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/08-04-19-shooting-in-the-sun-city--27445966753de32a46624276a63a265e85470dc9Sun, 04 Aug 2019 22:53:34 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at the tragic shootings in El Paso, Ohio, and California, along with analysis and reports that began to emerge online in their aftermath. 6214falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/07-25-19-can-you-repeat-the-question--27445960566fec9848dc4fd98fcd473f8c0f8b8dSun, 04 Aug 2019 22:05:21 +0000Micah HanksThis week we analyze Robert Mueller’s “historic testimony” before Congress… which despite the continued partisan debate, turned out to be anti-climactic at best.  5147falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/07-11-19-epstein-s-isle-of-scandal-and-conspiracy--27445826a4d8c38c965645c28202aab5f122ddeaSun, 04 Aug 2019 21:59:34 +0000Micah HanksThis week we examine information about the ongoing Jeffery Epstein scandal, which includes disturbing allegations about the Carribean island he owned, and his possible ties to intelligence agencies. 4816falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/07-02-19-debates-diplomacy-and-distractions--274458308cdc570d616548ab9a0ee01c398071daSun, 04 Aug 2019 21:56:32 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we look at the recent Democratic Debates, and the distractions in America that are taking away from more substantive discussion and debate. 4377falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/06-23-19-iran-so-far-away--27445932078dfe6c1e1f479c8bf93af4c5c807abSun, 04 Aug 2019 21:53:33 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, in addition to news about Facebook’s new Libra cryptocurrency, we examine the latest developments between the U.S. and Iran, and why sanctions without diplomacy is not a viable strategy. 4410falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/06-16-19-its-always-sunny-in-saudi-arabia--274459351271a13212304457810d86d56014b0bcSun, 04 Aug 2019 21:49:05 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at a controversial arms deal with Saudi Arabia, for which Donald Trump is citing a “National Emergency” in order to bypass Congress. 4176falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/06-06-19-d-day-75--27445831374899d0b0db4f038d3cdabf748c0be6Sun, 04 Aug 2019 21:43:08 +0000Micah HanksThis week’s podcast looks at the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the beach landing at Normandy in 1944, the events of which dramatically shifted the outcome of the Second World War. 3999falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/05-31-19-delicious-irony--2744593720615d43706d4f3f80d528f67b27ab07Sun, 04 Aug 2019 21:34:52 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, Robert Mueller’s statement before the media stirs controversy, as the partisan debate over the interpretation of his Special Council Report continues. 4700falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/05-26-19-freedom-of-the-press-in-peril--274459443b879b79016943fcae677d02595a09daSun, 04 Aug 2019 21:23:04 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, Julian Assange’s critics chime in on why the recent indictments brought against the whistleblower could present serious problems for journalists around the world. 4247truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/05-19-19-justice-for-all--27445939
This week, we begin with a look at items in the news including an "update" on the ongoing saga of Ben Shapiro's swift departure from a recent BBC interview, as well as how one Democratic pollster has argued that Trump's approval rating is one of the most consistent of any U.S. President in history. We then turn our att]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1781Sun, 19 May 2019 18:12:39 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of Middle Theory, we cover a campaign stop with Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, after which we weigh in on the economic implications of socialism.  This week, we begin with a look at items in the news including an "update" on the...
This week, we begin with a look at items in the news including an "update" on the ongoing saga of Ben Shapiro's swift departure from a recent BBC interview, as well as how one Democratic pollster has argued that Trump's approval rating is one of the most consistent of any U.S. President in history. We then turn our att]]>5665truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/05-12-19-the-iron-triangle--27445948
Happy Mother's Day to all you mothers out there... and after looking at a bit of the history of the holiday (and critically examining how corporate it, like so many other holidays, has become, we look at recent news pertaining to conservative firebrand Ben Shapiro, who has been a recent item of discussion after allegedly]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1776Sun, 12 May 2019 23:42:46 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we look at the "Iron Triangle," and the reasons that corruption in various agencies of government persist as a result of bureaucracy. Happy Mother's Day to all you mothers out there... and after looking at a bit of the...
Happy Mother's Day to all you mothers out there... and after looking at a bit of the history of the holiday (and critically examining how corporate it, like so many other holidays, has become, we look at recent news pertaining to conservative firebrand Ben Shapiro, who has been a recent item of discussion after allegedly]]>3953truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/05-04-19-barr-wars-episode-two-the-empire-bites-back--27445941
This week on Middle Theory, we lead off with the news about a controversial mural of George Washington that one town says is "traumatizing" their students... in this era of safe-spaces and trigger warnings, are there nonetheless some instances where calls for removal of such historical]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1773Sat, 04 May 2019 22:36:45 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of Middle Theory, things get heated between old friends in Washington, as communications between Attorney General William Barr and Special Counsel Robert Mueller take center stage.  This week on Middle Theory, we lead off with the...
This week on Middle Theory, we lead off with the news about a controversial mural of George Washington that one town says is "traumatizing" their students... in this era of safe-spaces and trigger warnings, are there nonetheless some instances where calls for removal of such historical]]>5437truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/04-26-19-ratsnakes--27445942
Leading off this week, Joe Biden has officially announced that he's running for president, and his official campaign announcement video sells his ideas on fear and loathing... specifically the tragic events at Charlottesville, WV, which involved a white nationalist rally that resulted in the deat]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1768Sat, 27 Apr 2019 00:30:48 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of Middle Theory, we talk with Vincent Cefalu, a former undercover ATF agent, whistleblower, and author of the forthcoming book Ratsnakes about his time with the agency. Leading off this week, Joe Biden has officially announced that...
Leading off this week, Joe Biden has officially announced that he's running for president, and his official campaign announcement video sells his ideas on fear and loathing... specifically the tragic events at Charlottesville, WV, which involved a white nationalist rally that resulted in the deat]]>4833truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/04-20-19-barr-wars--27445950
This week we lead off 4/20/19 with a breakdown of the latest statistics in relation to marijuana use in America, along with attitudes towards its legalization, and various stigmas that remain about it. We also examine the ways the Federal laws conflict with State laws with regard to marijuana, and what this means for proponents]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1765Sat, 20 Apr 2019 22:38:36 +0000Micah HanksThis week we celebrate 4/20 with a look at the political upheaval following Attorney General William Barr's release of the controversial Mueller Report.  This week we lead off 4/20/19 with a breakdown of the latest statistics in relation to marijuana...
This week we lead off 4/20/19 with a breakdown of the latest statistics in relation to marijuana use in America, along with attitudes towards its legalization, and various stigmas that remain about it. We also examine the ways the Federal laws conflict with State laws with regard to marijuana, and what this means for proponents]]>5005truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/04-12-19-the-straight-dope-assange-is-out--27445946
We lead off with an election update... Israel's election, that is, where Benjamin Netanyahu has performed well despite corruption charges. Also, the "secret life" of actress Audrey Hepburn suggests her past work as part of the resistance during wartime. Elsewhere, Covington High School student Nick Sandema]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1759Sat, 13 Apr 2019 15:39:06 +0000Micah HanksThis week, after taking a look at the biology behind politics and partisan attitudes, we present an update on the recent arrest of Julian Assange on behalf of the United States. We lead off with an election update... Israel's election, that is, where...
We lead off with an election update... Israel's election, that is, where Benjamin Netanyahu has performed well despite corruption charges. Also, the "secret life" of actress Audrey Hepburn suggests her past work as part of the resistance during wartime. Elsewhere, Covington High School student Nick Sandema]]>5908truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/04-07-19-tribal-warfare--27445836
Leading things off, newly released photos from early U2 spy plane missions are now helping archaeologists... and on the subject of "spy games," we touch on how Prince William was recently tapped by British intelligence for a brief stint on the streets... well, sort of. We also explai]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1756Sun, 07 Apr 2019 23:52:07 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we look at how modern "tribalism" influences political attitudes, as well as recent controversies involving 2020 Presidential hopeful and former Vice President Joe Biden.  Leading things off, newly released photos from...
Leading things off, newly released photos from early U2 spy plane missions are now helping archaeologists... and on the subject of "spy games," we touch on how Prince William was recently tapped by British intelligence for a brief stint on the streets... well, sort of. We also explai]]>5922truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/03-30-19-chicagoland--27446007
As we lead off, we take a look at a recent report which found that federal spending is at an all-time high... much like it has been over the course of the last several U.S. presidencies. While things are business as usual in Washington, we also check in on the outcome of the M]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1753Sun, 31 Mar 2019 15:42:27 +0000Micah HanksThis week, bizarre connections begin to arise between several high-profile court cases in "Chicagoland," affected by the controversial decision by authorities to drop charges against actor Jussie Smollett.  As we lead off, we take a look at a recent...
As we lead off, we take a look at a recent report which found that federal spending is at an all-time high... much like it has been over the course of the last several U.S. presidencies. While things are business as usual in Washington, we also check in on the outcome of the M]]>4920truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/03-24-19-the-boy-crisis--27445995
Well, it was an interesting weekend full of eventful news, that ended up being less eventful than everyone expected... that's a good summary of the findings of Robert Mueller and his team's long-awaited report on possible collusion with Russia during the 2016 election.

Moving on to other topics, why was the li]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1750Mon, 25 Mar 2019 14:05:52 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we look at the problems young boys and their families face, in a discussion with Warren Farrell, Ph.D., author of The Boy Crisis.  Well, it was an interesting weekend full of eventful news, that ended up being less...
Well, it was an interesting weekend full of eventful news, that ended up being less eventful than everyone expected... that's a good summary of the findings of Robert Mueller and his team's long-awaited report on possible collusion with Russia during the 2016 election.

Moving on to other topics, why was the li]]>6125truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/03-19-19-black-budgets-and-missing-money--27445997
Leading off this week, we remember the "glory days," back when friends and neighbors could sit together and enjoy a cup of Cowboy Juice while not necessarily agreeing on everything all the time. These days, that kind of honest and simple disagreement will get you banned on socia]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1746Wed, 20 Mar 2019 00:47:01 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at the history and evolution of political correctness, as well as the allegation that there are trillions of dollars that are missing or otherwise being "hidden" by the U.S. Government.  Leading off this week, we remember the "glory...
Leading off this week, we remember the "glory days," back when friends and neighbors could sit together and enjoy a cup of Cowboy Juice while not necessarily agreeing on everything all the time. These days, that kind of honest and simple disagreement will get you banned on socia]]>6732truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/03-08-19-five-years-malaysia-airlines-flight-370--27448727
On this edition of the program, we lead off with news in the area of government surveillance, with the recent report that the NSA may be ending its long-running phone surveillance program, first revealed to the public by whistleblower Edward Snowden. In related news, another famous whistleblower, Chelsea Manning, is loo]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1743Fri, 08 Mar 2019 21:34:16 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of Middle Theory, we look in-depth at the facts pertaining to Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 on the fifth anniversary of the plane's disappearance.  On this edition of the program, we lead off with news in the area of government...
On this edition of the program, we lead off with news in the area of government surveillance, with the recent report that the NSA may be ending its long-running phone surveillance program, first revealed to the public by whistleblower Edward Snowden. In related news, another famous whistleblower, Chelsea Manning, is loo]]>5246truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/03-02-19-mixers-and-fixers--27448726
We lead off with some bad news for beer drinkers: tests of 20 different alcoholic beverages found evidence of the toxic agent found in a common weedkiller. However, levels were low enough that we shouldn't be concerned... should we?

Also, the recent return of Alex Jones to]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1740Sat, 02 Mar 2019 23:55:38 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of Middle Theory, we offer commentary on the recent appearance of Alex Jones on Joe Rogan's podcast, as well as the media event that became Michael Cohen's testimony before Congress. We lead off with some bad news for beer drinkers:...
We lead off with some bad news for beer drinkers: tests of 20 different alcoholic beverages found evidence of the toxic agent found in a common weedkiller. However, levels were low enough that we shouldn't be concerned... should we?

Also, the recent return of Alex Jones to]]>6736truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/02-24-19-thirteen-questions-steps-to-self-improvement--27448799
Leading off this week, there's the old saying that goes, "you become the things you hate." That may never have been truer than in the Internet Age, where many who build reputations for themselves through various online platforms do so by engaging in attacks that foment controversy... but how muc]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1737Sun, 24 Feb 2019 20:02:42 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory we address "manufactured controversies" in society, along with a conversation with Darren Grimes and Adam Loyal about their new "Thirteen Questions" Podcast.  Leading off this week, there's the old saying that goes, "you...
Leading off this week, there's the old saying that goes, "you become the things you hate." That may never have been truer than in the Internet Age, where many who build reputations for themselves through various online platforms do so by engaging in attacks that foment controversy... but how muc]]>6425truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/02-17-19-the-united-states-of-emergency--27448678
As we lead off, we ask, "how did things ever get so weird?" Although there are plenty of simple answers to this question, politically-speaking (especially in relation to Donald Trump's presidency), could it be that there are actually deeper problems here? We also look at some of the tone-deafness shown by Elizabeth Warren, a 2]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1607Mon, 18 Feb 2019 04:03:06 +0000Micah HanksThis week, we look at Donald Trump's recent declaration of a National Emergency, along with the precedent for the decision, and it's possible implications. As we lead off, we ask, "how did things ever get so weird?" Although there are plenty of...
As we lead off, we ask, "how did things ever get so weird?" Although there are plenty of simple answers to this question, politically-speaking (especially in relation to Donald Trump's presidency), could it be that there are actually deeper problems here? We also look at some of the tone-deafness shown by Elizabeth Warren, a 2]]>4794truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/02-09-19-the-complexifier--27448808
As we lead off this week, a disturbing report out of Massachusetts about an alleged human trafficking attempt leads us down the rabbit hole into allegations against a church founded in South Korea in 1964, the World Mission Society Church of God, and allegations about the organization's cu]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1603Sat, 09 Feb 2019 21:09:01 +0000Micah HanksThis week, a scandal involving Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos and the "complexifier" of his Washington Post ownership leads to legitimate questions about the Amazon company's deep-state associations.  As we lead off this week, a disturbing report out of...
As we lead off this week, a disturbing report out of Massachusetts about an alleged human trafficking attempt leads us down the rabbit hole into allegations against a church founded in South Korea in 1964, the World Mission Society Church of God, and allegations about the organization's cu]]>6525truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/01-30-19-the-philosopher-the-pastor-and-the-podcaster--27448688
With the Federal Government finally open for business again (for now), we lead off with a bit of discussion about public intellectual and podcaster Sam Harris, who has made the bold decision to change the name of his "Waking Up" podcast (see the show notes below for more on this). We ar]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1597Fri, 01 Feb 2019 02:32:34 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory we are joined by atheist philosopher Keith Parsons and retired pastor Paris Donehoo for a sit-down conversation about finding common ground, and restoring common decency. With the Federal Government finally open for...
With the Federal Government finally open for business again (for now), we lead off with a bit of discussion about public intellectual and podcaster Sam Harris, who has made the bold decision to change the name of his "Waking Up" podcast (see the show notes below for more on this). We ar]]>6813truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/01-24-19-fake-news-anti-science-and-democracy--27448749
A Note to Our Listeners: The majority of this program was recorded on January 24, with an addendum in our weekly "wrap up" section to allow coverage of breaking news about a temporary end to the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. Hence, early portions of this episode will reflect covera]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1589Sat, 26 Jan 2019 17:22:08 +0000Micah HanksThis week after fact-checking media coverage of contentious events in Washington, we are joined by Michael J. Thompson, co-editor of the book Anti-Science and the Assault on Democracy. A Note to Our Listeners: The majority of this program was...
A Note to Our Listeners: The majority of this program was recorded on January 24, with an addendum in our weekly "wrap up" section to allow coverage of breaking news about a temporary end to the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. Hence, early portions of this episode will reflect covera]]>8004truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/01-18-19-secrecy-and-the-fourth-estate--27448707
On this historic day that marks the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, here in the present day, the U.S. government has now been shut down for a month, and as the stalemate ensues, Trump and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi have played tit-for-tat in a back and forth that is beginning to look a lot m]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1584Sat, 19 Jan 2019 17:25:25 +0000Micah HanksThis week we look at the history of government secrecy since the end of World War II, the reasons for it, and the role of the press and other organizations in promoting transparency.  On this historic day that marks the signing of the Treaty of...
On this historic day that marks the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, here in the present day, the U.S. government has now been shut down for a month, and as the stalemate ensues, Trump and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi have played tit-for-tat in a back and forth that is beginning to look a lot m]]>6236truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/01-12-19-shutdown--27446003
Kicking things off this week, it's been tough times for government employees, hundreds of thousands of whom haven't received paychecks in the new year. Hence, a number of bar tabs are probably still open in Washington... in light of this, Micah discusses some of the stigmas associated with alcohol consumption, the health risks and benefits, and its relation]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1571Sat, 12 Jan 2019 16:53:35 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we look at the details behind what has led to the longest U.S. government shutdown in history.  Kicking things off this week, it's been tough times for government employees, hundreds of thousands of whom haven't...
Kicking things off this week, it's been tough times for government employees, hundreds of thousands of whom haven't received paychecks in the new year. Hence, a number of bar tabs are probably still open in Washington... in light of this, Micah discusses some of the stigmas associated with alcohol consumption, the health risks and benefits, and its relation]]>5799truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/01-05-19-gop-civil-war--27448706
Happy New Year, first of all... and as we look at what's happening in the news, Micah begins with some discussion of holiday reading, and what we consider "higher literature" by today's standards. Does the writing of novelist Stephen King, who many call our era's American "master storyteller", qualify?]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1566Sun, 06 Jan 2019 19:15:48 +0000Micah HanksOn this first edition of Middle Theory for 2019, a rift is growing in the GOP, with vocal opposition to Donald Trump following an op-ed by newly elected Utah Senator Mitt Romney.  Happy New Year, first of all... and as we look at what's happening in...
Happy New Year, first of all... and as we look at what's happening in the news, Micah begins with some discussion of holiday reading, and what we consider "higher literature" by today's standards. Does the writing of novelist Stephen King, who many call our era's American "master storyteller", qualify?]]>5610truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/12-22-18-syria-withdrawal-syndrome--27448809
They say things happen in threes... and for the third time this year, a partial government shutdown has occurred. This occurred largely due to a failure between Trump and Congress to find agreement on proper funding allocation for his controversial "border wall" between the United States and Mexico. However, looking more dee]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1562Sun, 23 Dec 2018 17:59:14 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we look at Trump's sudden decision to withdraw troops from Syria, and the resulting resignation of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis.  They say things happen in threes... and for the third time this year, a partial government...
They say things happen in threes... and for the third time this year, a partial government shutdown has occurred. This occurred largely due to a failure between Trump and Congress to find agreement on proper funding allocation for his controversial "border wall" between the United States and Mexico. However, looking more dee]]>6269truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/12-17-18-santa-claus-rally-boom-or-bust--27448730
As we kick things off, we look at the relevance historical studies has to our understanding of the human condition. Micah begins with a few observations in relation to the book Going to the Sources: A Guide to Historical Research and Writing, and the way that historical research is conducted, before comparing this to themes like postmod]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1559Tue, 18 Dec 2018 01:59:15 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we look at the idea of the "Santa Claus Rally," and dire economic forecasts for the future of the American economy.  As we kick things off, we look at the relevance historical studies has to our understanding of the human...
As we kick things off, we look at the relevance historical studies has to our understanding of the human condition. Micah begins with a few observations in relation to the book Going to the Sources: A Guide to Historical Research and Writing, and the way that historical research is conducted, before comparing this to themes like postmod]]>5921truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/12-11-18-george-h-w-bush-s-new-world-order--27448729
Leading things off this week, we spend a moment looking at Taoism, which has been on Micah's mind after a recent conversation he had with history professor and podcaster-extraordinaire Daniele Bolelli, host of The Drunken Taoist and History on Fire podcasts. W]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1556Tue, 11 Dec 2018 21:45:39 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we look at the life and political career of George Herbert Walker Bush, his notable achievements, his idea of a "New World Order," and his influence on foreign policy throughout the decades.  Leading things off this week,...
Leading things off this week, we spend a moment looking at Taoism, which has been on Micah's mind after a recent conversation he had with history professor and podcaster-extraordinaire Daniele Bolelli, host of The Drunken Taoist and History on Fire podcasts. W]]>6967truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/11-30-18-the-nightmare-before-christmas--27448732On this edition of Middle Theory, we lead off with a few anecdotes on MMA fighting (and podcasters who talk about it), as well as the concept of becoming “cursed with knowledge,” before touching on the latest appearance of North Sentinel Island in the news, after a tourist was shot and killed]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1552Sat, 01 Dec 2018 00:06:05 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, the pieces begin falling together in relation to the ongoing Russia probe, following Michael Cohen's recent guilty plea in relation to lies he told before Congress.  On this edition of Middle Theory, we lead off with a few...On this edition of Middle Theory, we lead off with a few anecdotes on MMA fighting (and podcasters who talk about it), as well as the concept of becoming “cursed with knowledge,” before touching on the latest appearance of North Sentinel Island in the news, after a tourist was shot and killed]]>5897truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/11-17-18-immigration-a-history-of-intolerance--27448742
Nietzche (yeah, that guy again) famously wrote in his Human, All Too Human, "With a torch in my hand, the light of which is not by any means a flickering one, I illuminate this nether world with beams that cut like blades. It is war, but war without powder and smoke, without warlike attitudes, without pathos and c]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1547Sun, 18 Nov 2018 17:11:53 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we examine the issue over immigration, the Central American migrant caravans, and America's dark history of intolerance toward foreigners.  Nietzche (yeah, that guy again) famously wrote in his Human, All Too Human, "With...
Nietzche (yeah, that guy again) famously wrote in his Human, All Too Human, "With a torch in my hand, the light of which is not by any means a flickering one, I illuminate this nether world with beams that cut like blades. It is war, but war without powder and smoke, without warlike attitudes, without pathos and c]]>7456truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/11-10-18-when-big-dogs-bite-back--27448745
It's been a bad week for Alec Baldwin, the actor, SNL Trump impersonator in-chief, and occasional Hollywood Hot-Head. After news of an altercation between Baldwin and an NY commuter over a parking spot, it was announced on Tuesday (as election results were rolling in) that Baldwin's nascen]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1542Sat, 10 Nov 2018 16:55:22 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we look at the big issues following the recent U.S. Midterm Elections, including protests, clashes with media personalities, and the "resignation" of Jeff Sessions.  It's been a bad week for Alec Baldwin, the actor, SNL...
It's been a bad week for Alec Baldwin, the actor, SNL Trump impersonator in-chief, and occasional Hollywood Hot-Head. After news of an altercation between Baldwin and an NY commuter over a parking spot, it was announced on Tuesday (as election results were rolling in) that Baldwin's nascen]]>6339truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/11-02-18-election-2018-dear-young-people--27448811
The American election 2018 is right around the corner... and most of us probably agree that there are far more interesting things we'd like to talk about. Which is why we first look at the politics of conspiracy theories, before turning our attention to how Iran attempte]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1535Sat, 03 Nov 2018 03:11:37 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, with the 2018 American Midterm Elections around the corner, we look at one of the most concerning issues pertaining to the election: why young people (and many others) aren't voting.  The American election 2018 is right...
The American election 2018 is right around the corner... and most of us probably agree that there are far more interesting things we'd like to talk about. Which is why we first look at the politics of conspiracy theories, before turning our attention to how Iran attempte]]>5845truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10-24-18-sex-gender-language-and-truth--27448746
As we lead off this week, we attempt to get into a "spooky" mood in the final days leading up to Halloween 2018. However, it seems we got the kind of "scare" this week none had expected or hoped for after it was reported that possible explosive devices had been sent to a number of former Democratic politicia]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1530Thu, 25 Oct 2018 20:44:29 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, the issue of transgender rights takes center stage, after a Trump administration memo became public which seeks a new legal definition of gender.  As we lead off this week, we attempt to get into a "spooky" mood in the...
As we lead off this week, we attempt to get into a "spooky" mood in the final days leading up to Halloween 2018. However, it seems we got the kind of "scare" this week none had expected or hoped for after it was reported that possible explosive devices had been sent to a number of former Democratic politicia]]>6777truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10-21-18-cover-up-khashoggi--27448819
Most of us are tired of politics by now, and so after an opening mantra that looks at reasons for being thankful in the Western World (peppered with a few of Nietzsche's aphorisms), we look at some of the best of the worst political campaign ads that have aired in 2018.

Then later in the program, we shift our attentio]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1527Mon, 22 Oct 2018 00:18:11 +0000Micah HanksThis week we delve into the sordid circumstances surrounding the disappearance and subsequent confirmation of the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Most of us are tired of politics by now, and so after an opening mantra that looks at reasons for...
Most of us are tired of politics by now, and so after an opening mantra that looks at reasons for being thankful in the Western World (peppered with a few of Nietzsche's aphorisms), we look at some of the best of the worst political campaign ads that have aired in 2018.

Then later in the program, we shift our attentio]]>6593truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10-13-18-dragonfly-the-great-firewall-of-china--27448812
Micah is fresh back from the Southeast this week, where he spent several days moving from location to location while trying to outrun Hurricane Michael. Upon returning, we begin our survey of news and events by looking at backlash from anarchists in New York after a Republican club scheduled a]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1524Sun, 14 Oct 2018 20:55:17 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of Middle Theory, we look at Google's decision to bring its search engine services to China with its "Dragonfly" project, and the broader history of censorship in the East.  Micah is fresh back from the Southeast this week, where he...
Micah is fresh back from the Southeast this week, where he spent several days moving from location to location while trying to outrun Hurricane Michael. Upon returning, we begin our survey of news and events by looking at backlash from anarchists in New York after a Republican club scheduled a]]>5962truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10-03-18-kavanaugh-search-and-destroy--27448735
In light of recent news in the United States, things are feeling particularly divided as of late. Hence, looking back to the times of the American Founding Fathers, we often see that concerns over political partisanship contributing to division among the populace was something]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1520Wed, 03 Oct 2018 18:37:36 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, the ongoing controversy surrounding Supreme Court Nominee Brett Kavanaugh reaches critical mass, following testimony from one of his accusers and an ensuing FBI investigation.  In light of recent news in the United States,...
In light of recent news in the United States, things are feeling particularly divided as of late. Hence, looking back to the times of the American Founding Fathers, we often see that concerns over political partisanship contributing to division among the populace was something]]>7653truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/09-26-18-the-killing-joke--27448772
This week we lead off with a look at how the changing environment of political correctness in America today is not only affecting cultural attitudes, things we say, and how we say them, but also how this relates to comedy and satire. Are things that were once]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1515Wed, 26 Sep 2018 17:32:05 +0000Micah HanksThis week we examine the fine line between humor and insensitivity in the comedy industry, as entertainer and Netflix host Norm Macdonald lands in hot water after defending some of his colleagues who had fallen from grace.  This week we lead off with...
This week we lead off with a look at how the changing environment of political correctness in America today is not only affecting cultural attitudes, things we say, and how we say them, but also how this relates to comedy and satire. Are things that were once]]>6161truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/09-19-18-he-too-kavanaugh-accused--27448825
This week we begin our foray into the nonpartisan center with a few updates pertaining to Hurricane Florence, which includes analysis of some of the more unusual news items pertaining to the historic storm. Among these were claims of price gouging in North Carolina, reports of looting in various affec]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1505Thu, 20 Sep 2018 01:09:45 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, the controversy surrounding Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh reaches full-tilt, following a series of accusations of sexual misconduct against him.  This week we begin our foray into the nonpartisan center with a few...
This week we begin our foray into the nonpartisan center with a few updates pertaining to Hurricane Florence, which includes analysis of some of the more unusual news items pertaining to the historic storm. Among these were claims of price gouging in North Carolina, reports of looting in various affec]]>6322truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/09-11-18-flight-93--27448793
On this edition of Middle Theory, Micah discusses his recent visit to Regina, Saskatchewan in Canada, and the Justice for our Stolen Children Camp there. The encampment was established as a protest following the deaths of Colten Boushie and Tina Fontaine, in addition to problems in the child welfare system a]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1501Wed, 12 Sep 2018 22:08:02 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we remember the crash of United Flight 93, and the other lives lost during the September 11th, 2001 terror attacks on the anniversary of the date. On this edition of Middle Theory, Micah discusses his recent visit to...
On this edition of Middle Theory, Micah discusses his recent visit to Regina, Saskatchewan in Canada, and the Justice for our Stolen Children Camp there. The encampment was established as a protest following the deaths of Colten Boushie and Tina Fontaine, in addition to problems in the child welfare system a]]>7055truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/09-06-18-the-galindez-file--27448743
Have you ever felt like you've been caught in a political echo chamber? Well before you attempt to escape, maybe you should consider the latest studies, which suggest that listening to opposition can make partisanship even worse (once again, we recommend instead that you just listen to]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1493Wed, 05 Sep 2018 06:16:54 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, in addition to news and current events we examine the historical circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Columbia University Professor Jesús Galíndez in 1956.  Have you ever felt like you've been caught in a...
Have you ever felt like you've been caught in a political echo chamber? Well before you attempt to escape, maybe you should consider the latest studies, which suggest that listening to opposition can make partisanship even worse (once again, we recommend instead that you just listen to]]>6325truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/09-01-18-john-mccain-the-last-maverick--27448762
As we say so long to the month of August (and bid welcome back to those who have been "unplugged" for the last several weeks), Micah takes a moment to remind us how bad things could be... and in ancient Rome, that's precisely how things were. Public insults in ancient Rome often were so volatile that they made today's w]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1489Sat, 01 Sep 2018 18:24:07 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of Middle Theory, we remember the life and political career of the influential Arizona Senator John McCain, who passed away on August 25, 2018.  As we say so long to the month of August (and bid welcome back to those who have been...
As we say so long to the month of August (and bid welcome back to those who have been "unplugged" for the last several weeks), Micah takes a moment to remind us how bad things could be... and in ancient Rome, that's precisely how things were. Public insults in ancient Rome often were so volatile that they made today's w]]>7794truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/08-23-18-takedown--27448791
The oft-quoted, "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it" is generally attributed to Enlightenment philosopher Voltaire... although the phrase actually has its origins in the early 20th century. First appearing in a book titled, "The Friends of Voltaire," the misattributed fictional quote]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1484Fri, 24 Aug 2018 19:12:50 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, the "takedown" of Trump associates Michael Cohen and Paul Manafort could point to illegal actions by the President himself.  The oft-quoted, "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say...
The oft-quoted, "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it" is generally attributed to Enlightenment philosopher Voltaire... although the phrase actually has its origins in the early 20th century. First appearing in a book titled, "The Friends of Voltaire," the misattributed fictional quote]]>5663truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/08-18-18-resistance-civil-disobedience--27448826
And we have liftoff... but before our stewardesses are able to make it around and serve up cocktails, our appetizer this week features a bit of Thoreau, who in his 1849 essay Resistance to Civil Government wrote, "to speak practically and as a citizen, unlike t]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1480Sat, 18 Aug 2018 17:52:05 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory we look at the ongoing "Battle for the Web," as well as concepts of civil disobedience, the ways that government is changing our values, and how we can aspire to change government for the better. And we have liftoff... but...
And we have liftoff... but before our stewardesses are able to make it around and serve up cocktails, our appetizer this week features a bit of Thoreau, who in his 1849 essay Resistance to Civil Government wrote, "to speak practically and as a citizen, unlike t]]>6631truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/08-10-18-agents-of-chaos--27448810
Kicking things off, after all of our salutations and celebratory greetings are all cared for, we launch into our discussion with a look at director Christopher Nolan's modern classic film, The Dark Knight, as we ruminate on its political meaning in the modern fracas that is the current political climate in the United States. This lea]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1476Sat, 11 Aug 2018 01:44:05 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we look at the chaos surrounding Alex Jones' recent ban from social media, and its possible long-term repercussions.  Kicking things off, after all of our salutations and celebratory greetings are all cared for, we launch...
Kicking things off, after all of our salutations and celebratory greetings are all cared for, we launch into our discussion with a look at director Christopher Nolan's modern classic film, The Dark Knight, as we ruminate on its political meaning in the modern fracas that is the current political climate in the United States. This lea]]>8035truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/08-01-18-calm-before-the-storm-whistleblowing-in-the-wind--27448827
It's time for a system reset... what does it truly mean to be a "centrist," and what does a program like Middle Theory seek to achieve in offering a non-partisan perspective on news, current events, politics, and social commentary?

Taking to the microphone this week in a "solo]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1472Thu, 02 Aug 2018 17:18:35 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we focus on the modern "whistleblower" phenomena, as well as its history in U.S. Government, and conspiracy theories associated with alleged whistleblowers today.  It's time for a system reset... what does it truly mean to...
It's time for a system reset... what does it truly mean to be a "centrist," and what does a program like Middle Theory seek to achieve in offering a non-partisan perspective on news, current events, politics, and social commentary?

Taking to the microphone this week in a "solo]]>7380truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/07-22-18-drag-me-to-helsinki--27448748
This week on Middle Theory, we begin with a look at the controversy associated with fraudulent charges made to users of the popular Uber App, who find that a so-called 'vomit charge' has been erroneously added to their bill. Also on the subject of fraud, we look at allegations made against Elon Musk recently, following his explosive at]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1462Tue, 24 Jul 2018 17:56:33 +0000Micah HanksThis week, we examine the fallout after Donald Trump's embarrassing appearance at the 2018 Helsinki Summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.  This week on Middle Theory, we begin with a look at the controversy associated with fraudulent charges...
This week on Middle Theory, we begin with a look at the controversy associated with fraudulent charges made to users of the popular Uber App, who find that a so-called 'vomit charge' has been erroneously added to their bill. Also on the subject of fraud, we look at allegations made against Elon Musk recently, following his explosive at]]>7342truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/07-15-18-the-universal-basic-income-debate--27448755
From the outset, we begin by looking at a few historical instances where great minds--specifically Greek philosopher Plato and folk singer Bob Dylan--express the merits of centrism in their personal philosophies. This leads us to some discussion about the general volatility in media today, and the way commentat]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1457Mon, 16 Jul 2018 17:46:47 +0000Micah HanksOn this episode, we look at the concept of Universal Basic Income and explore what would be required for such a system to succeed in changing society in beneficial ways.  From the outset, we begin by looking at a few historical instances where great...
From the outset, we begin by looking at a few historical instances where great minds--specifically Greek philosopher Plato and folk singer Bob Dylan--express the merits of centrism in their personal philosophies. This leads us to some discussion about the general volatility in media today, and the way commentat]]>9393truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/07-09-18-the-modern-dialectic--27448823
Kicking things off this week, the ongoing saga of YouTube call-outs and rebuttals takes the center stage, as Joe Rogan appears to somewhat regretfully respond to Alex Jones' recent accusation that the powers that be have "gotten to him," and hence (in Alex's mind) why th]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1454Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:22:35 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, we address issues in the ongoing "Modern Dialectic" that include the death penalty, philosophy in American education, and the announcement of Donald Trump's latest Supreme Court pick.  Kicking things off this week, the...
Kicking things off this week, the ongoing saga of YouTube call-outs and rebuttals takes the center stage, as Joe Rogan appears to somewhat regretfully respond to Alex Jones' recent accusation that the powers that be have "gotten to him," and hence (in Alex's mind) why th]]>7741truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/06-29-18-the-high-court-rules--27448829
As we kick things off this week, we begin by examining a recent attack made against YouTube talk host Dave Rubin by his former associates The Young Turks, and its similarity to a recent "warning" by conspiracy theorist Alex Jones to his friend Joe Rogan about forthcoming EU legislation that could ban memes.

Then getting to the M]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1451Sun, 01 Jul 2018 21:58:34 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, a slew of recent Supreme Court developments have raised questions, and controversy, in the era of Donald Trump.  As we kick things off this week, we begin by examining a recent attack made against YouTube talk host Dave...
As we kick things off this week, we begin by examining a recent attack made against YouTube talk host Dave Rubin by his former associates The Young Turks, and its similarity to a recent "warning" by conspiracy theorist Alex Jones to his friend Joe Rogan about forthcoming EU legislation that could ban memes.

Then getting to the M]]>7094truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/06-20-18-keep-on-riffin-in-a-free-world--27448828
On this edition of the podcast, Reverend Oakley (who is paradoxically also our resident secularist) joins Micah for a "riffin'" discussion on philosophy, as it applies to issues being faced in America today. For those who aren't aware, "riffin'" is a term Micah borrows both fr]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1448Wed, 20 Jun 2018 19:55:37 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of Middle Theory, a combination of issues and current events are addressed, within the broader discussion of free speech in America, issues with the education system, and identity politics.  On this edition of the podcast, Reverend...
On this edition of the podcast, Reverend Oakley (who is paradoxically also our resident secularist) joins Micah for a "riffin'" discussion on philosophy, as it applies to issues being faced in America today. For those who aren't aware, "riffin'" is a term Micah borrows both fr]]>6248truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/06-15-18-bourdain-parts-unknown--27448767
We pick up where we left off last week with an examination of the mysterious "illness" that U.S. diplomats, first in Cuba, and now in China, claim to have been afflicted by while working at foreign embassy locations. Some in the medical community have expressed skepticism over the claims, an]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1445Sun, 17 Jun 2018 15:15:17 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, the loss of celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain sparks a conversation about societal issues with depression and cooperative efforts toward the prevention of suicide.  We pick up where we left off last week with an examination...
We pick up where we left off last week with an examination of the mysterious "illness" that U.S. diplomats, first in Cuba, and now in China, claim to have been afflicted by while working at foreign embassy locations. Some in the medical community have expressed skepticism over the claims, an]]>9381truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/06-06-18-grill-bill-volume-1--27448754
As we're kicking things off on this week's program, we start off with questions about recent scientific studies that argue there are far greater health concerns associated with alcohol consumption. How does this compare with similar studies that have gone back and forth on the health benefits--or concerns--associated with coffee consumption? And]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1442Thu, 07 Jun 2018 20:22:00 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, a recent TODAY show appearance has placed former president Bill Clinton at the heart of the #MeToo debate.  As we're kicking things off on this week's program, we start off with questions about recent scientific studies...
As we're kicking things off on this week's program, we start off with questions about recent scientific studies that argue there are far greater health concerns associated with alcohol consumption. How does this compare with similar studies that have gone back and forth on the health benefits--or concerns--associated with coffee consumption? And]]>8181truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/05-31-18-hitler-myths-conspiracies-and-reality--27448763
Beforehand, we discuss an interesting series of events in relation to the Internet Archive and it's "Wayback Machine," which allows web users to scan archived versions of websites and other online content that may no longer appear]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1439Fri, 01 Jun 2018 01:39:40 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, in addition to news and commentary on current affairs, we provide an in-depth look at the historical mystery of Adolf Hitler's death, which spawned decades of conspiracy theories about his possible escape at the end of...
Beforehand, we discuss an interesting series of events in relation to the Internet Archive and it's "Wayback Machine," which allows web users to scan archived versions of websites and other online content that may no longer appear]]>7096truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/05-25-18-fear-of-the-dark--27448788
Before we get to that part of the discussion, Micah is joined by Matthew Oakley, filling in for Mr. McNonymous, who joins us to discuss trending news which includes recent shooting events in parts of America, as well as news pertaining to the arrest of Hollywood producer (]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1436Sat, 26 May 2018 20:55:59 +0000Micah HanksOn this edition of Middle Theory, we examine the cultural phenomenon that is "The Intellectual Dark Web," a loosely-knit group of individuals who engage in debate and discourse pertaining to freedom of speech.  Before we get to that part of the...
Before we get to that part of the discussion, Micah is joined by Matthew Oakley, filling in for Mr. McNonymous, who joins us to discuss trending news which includes recent shooting events in parts of America, as well as news pertaining to the arrest of Hollywood producer (]]>7638truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/05-16-18-the-mueller-probe-year-one--27448785
Continuing our discussion from last week about the so-called "Intellectual Dark Web" referenced in a New York Times opinion piece, we look at some of the ways the new intellectual movement in America is coming to fruition thanks to the likes of educators like Bret Weinstein, psychologist Jord]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1432Thu, 17 May 2018 13:03:12 +0000Micah HanksOn this episode, we mark one full year since the beginning of the Mueller Probe, with the release of thousands of pages of Trump Tower meeting transcripts by the Senate Judiciary Committee. Continuing our discussion from last week about the so-called...
Continuing our discussion from last week about the so-called "Intellectual Dark Web" referenced in a New York Times opinion piece, we look at some of the ways the new intellectual movement in America is coming to fruition thanks to the likes of educators like Bret Weinstein, psychologist Jord]]>5675truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/05-11-18-exit-iran-enter-north-korea--27448759
Before getting to the crux of the matter though, we tackle a number of pressing issues, including McNON’s]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1429Sat, 12 May 2018 22:04:41 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, President Trump has the spotlight as he withdrew the United States from the Iranian nuclear deal, and the long-awaited meeting with North Korea looms near. What does this spell for US Foreign Policy going forward, and how...
Before getting to the crux of the matter though, we tackle a number of pressing issues, including McNON’s]]>6425truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/05-04-18-the-president-the-porn-star-and-the-payoff--27448786
As we kick things off, we begin by looking at the Empire's response to the celebratory "May Fourth" holiday, which is popularly associated with Star Wars. Are we being told the ENTIRE truth about the Rebel Alliance and their aims and objectives? Also, is the secretive order known as the Jedi actua]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1426Sun, 06 May 2018 01:07:55 +0000Micah HanksThis week on Middle Theory, as "Rudolph" Giuliani takes the place as President Donald Trump's new attorney, new questions arise in the continuing Robert Muller probe... will it ever end? As we kick things off, we begin by looking at the Empire's...
As we kick things off, we begin by looking at the Empire's response to the celebratory "May Fourth" holiday, which is popularly associated with Star Wars. Are we being told the ENTIRE truth about the Rebel Alliance and their aims and objectives? Also, is the secretive order known as the Jedi actua]]>8084truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/04-27-18-the-vanguard--27448794
Before tackling a range of issues sweeping from the Middle East to disturbing news of cult-activity out of upstate New York, the conversation this week begins on a lighter note, as Chris and Micah discuss one of the world’s most beloved, yet regionally complex, dish]]>https://www.middletheory.com/?p=1423Sat, 28 Apr 2018 23:17:21 +0000Micah HanksOn this episode of the Middle Theory podcast, we look at the disturbing allegations of human trafficking and slavery pertaining to Albany-based NXIVM, a group led by a self-help guru who calls himself "The Vanguard." Before tackling a range of issues...
Before tackling a range of issues sweeping from the Middle East to disturbing news of cult-activity out of upstate New York, the conversation this week begins on a lighter note, as Chris and Micah discuss one of the world’s most beloved, yet regionally complex, dish]]>9692truefull