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Rivera and Reeves

Author: Meseidy Rivera and Rachel Reeves

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Forget the media talking points—“Rivera and Reeves” is where the spin stops and the real talk begins. We tackle the news, politics, and cultural battles the mainstream wants you to ignore, all from a perspective that values truth, freedom, and common sense. Delivered with wit, humor, and a whole lot of coffee, this is the podcast for anyone who refuses to be spoon-fed narratives and is ready to think critically about the world around them. Think of it as coffee with two friends who aren’t afraid to say what you’re already thinking.

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132 Episodes
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Pentagon press briefings just got a major shakeup—and the new faces asking questions might surprise you. Meseidy and Rachel break down the controversial media restrictions at the Department of Defense, Pete Hegseth’s mounting controversies, including “Boat Strike Gate” and the Signal scandal, and the explosive showdown brewing between Candace Owens and Turning Point USA. Plus: why Candace’s conspiracy-driven investigation into Charlie Kirk’s assassination is more dangerous than anyone’s admitting, the real threats being ignored, and one host’s shocking confession about Christmas music that nearly derailed the entire finale.Episode HighlightsPentagon press corps overhaul: Legacy media walks out over new restrictions while right-wing influencers fill the room—but is this swing too far in the other direction?Hegseth under fire: New details emerge on the Venezuela boat strikes and the Inspector General’s report on classified information sharing via SignalCandace vs. TPUSA escalates: Blake Neff announces live debate to address Owens’ accusations point-by-point; Candace responds with conditionsThe cult mechanics at play: How Candace’s investigation tactics mirror prototypical cult behavior and why her followers can’t see itReal threats being ignored: Why obsession with conspiracy theories distracts from the actual rise in left-wing political violenceUpgradeSupport Rivera and Reeves for early, ad-free episodes! Get full videos, crystal-clear audio, and exclusive content a day before YouTube. Join now to stay ahead and help us stay independent. Upgrade today!Get 30% off for 1 yearFollow Us On Youtube!YouTubeGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters0:00 Intro & Episode Overview2:02 January 6th Pipe Bombing Arrest6:05 Pentagon Press Corps Shakeup Explained10:40 Who’s Actually in the Room Now?14:22 The Problem With Softball Questions19:26 CNN’s Elitist Response21:50 New Details on Venezuela Boat Strikes24:56 Signal Gate: Hegseth’s IG Report28:43 Candace Owens vs. TPUSA: The Full Story34:40 Blake Neff’s Challenge & Video Response37:06 Candace’s Response: Why She Won’t Go In Person42:09 The Cult Mechanics Explained47:23 Real Threats Being Ignored53:06 Final Thoughts on the Debate54:06 Christmas Music Segment (Pure Chaos)1:02:00 Season Finale Wrap-UpSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Minnesota’s billion-dollar fraud scandal finally breaks into mainstream coverage—and the timing couldn’t be worse for Tim Walz’s gubernatorial hopes. We break down the largest social program fraud in U.S. history, the DC National Guard shooting by an Afghan national that prompted Trump to suspend asylum, and why Tennessee’s special election has both parties panicking. Plus: Pete Hegseth’s “double tap” controversy gets the New York Times fact-check treatment, and Melania’s White House Christmas decorations prove elegance still exists in Washington. No spin, no excuses—just the stories the legacy media keeps burying.Episode HighlightsDC Attack Exposes Vetting Crisis: Afghan national shoots two West Virginia National Guard members near White House; one killed, sparking immediate asylum suspension$1 Billion Minnesota Fraud Scandal: Somali community members convicted in massive social program abuse while Tim Walz deflects responsibility ahead of governor’s raceTennessee’s Warning Shot: Special election in Trump+22 district becomes unexpectedly competitive as Democrat Afton Bain floods Nashville with progressive messagingMedia Does Actual Journalism: New York Times fact-checks Washington Post’s Hegseth “war crime” claims in rare display of editorial rivalryChristmas at the White House: Melania’s elegant holiday decorations stand in stark contrast to last year’s tap-dancing Broadway extravaganzaUpgradeSupport Rivera and Reeves for early, ad-free episodes! Get full videos, crystal-clear audio, and exclusive content a day before YouTube. Join now to stay ahead and help us stay independent. Upgrade today!Get 30% off for 1 yearFollow Us On Youtube!YouTubeGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Reflections02:56 Current Events and News Updates05:34 Shooting Incident and Its Implications08:34 Discussion on Immigration and Vetting Processes11:28 Minnesota Fraud Scandal Overview14:33 Investigative Journalism and Political Accountability17:17 Cultural Challenges and Assimilation Issues20:03 Social Safety Net Abuse and Its Consequences23:01 Conclusion and Future Implications30:36 The Oversight of Pandemic Assistance Fraud33:44 Race Sensitivity and Political Accountability36:29 Whistleblowers and Corruption in Minnesota39:26 The Impact of Political Fear on Crime Reporting42:17 Cultural Dynamics and Community Responsibility45:23 Immigration, Assimilation, and Community Dynamics51:27 Tennessee Special Election: A Shift in Political Landscape01:03:34 The Numbers Game in Elections01:07:02 The Impact of Transplants on Local Politics01:08:11 Venezuela Boat Strike Controversy01:16:40 Christmas Traditions and First Ladies01:25:05 Media Narratives and Political HealthSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
When Democrats tell the military to defy the commander-in-chief and Trump responds with “seditious behavior,” you know things are getting spicy. Meseidy and Rachel break down the bizarre congressional video urging service members to refuse “unspecified illegal orders,” new Fox News polling showing economic concerns at Trump’s doorstep, and the Epstein files claiming another Democrat. Plus: the real origin story of Thanksgiving (spoiler: it wasn’t the pilgrims), holiday traditions, and why you should never confuse hot Jamaican peppers with sweet ones. Consider this your pre-Turkey Day reality check.Episode HighlightsDemocrats’ controversial video urging military to defy Trump’s “illegal orders”—but what orders exactly?Trump’s Truth Social response, calling it “seditious behavior punishable by death” sparks fresh controversyFox News poll reveals troubling economic numbers: 76% rate national economy as “not so good or poor”Stacey Plaskett’s awkward defense of her Epstein connections on CNN and the House floorThe untold history of Thanksgiving: how a women’s magazine editor lobbied for 17 years to create a unifying national holidayThanksgiving disasters, Southern casseroles, and why stovetop stuffing is absolutely validUpgradeSupport Rivera and Reeves for early, ad-free episodes! Get full videos, crystal-clear audio, and exclusive content a day before YouTube. Join now to stay ahead and help us stay independent. Upgrade today!Get 30% off for 1 yearFollow Us On Youtube!YouTubeListen For Free at 6pmGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Thanksgiving Anticipation and Personal Preferences03:09 Podcast Schedule and Holiday Break05:55 Current Events and Thanksgiving Discussions08:50 Political Reactions and Military Orders11:43 Democratic Messaging and Military Concerns14:43 Trump’s Response and Political Climate17:43 Economic Concerns and Voter Sentiment24:59 Self-Inflicted Challenges and Economic Recovery28:42 Youth Perspectives on Government Involvement29:35 Epstein Transparency and Political Fallout33:37 Defending the Indefensible: Political Damage Control41:41 The Origins of Thanksgiving: A Unifying Holiday45:45 The Origins of Thanksgiving47:00 Thanksgiving Food Traditions49:53 Cultural Differences in Thanksgiving Celebrations51:16 Thanksgiving Mishaps and Memories58:38 Thanksgiving Recipes and Preparations01:02:56 Thanksgiving Family Traditions and CelebrationsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Is the GOP fighting the right battles? With the midterms approaching and Trump’s messaging under scrutiny, we’re breaking down what’s really driving Gen Z’s political nihilism—and it’s not what you think. Amanda joins Meseidy to dissect the affordability crisis, the H1B visa debate, healthcare time bombs, and why both parties are missing the mark with young voters. From Fuentes to tariffs to 50-year mortgages, we’re cutting through the noise to ask: can Republicans win on economics, or are they too busy fighting culture wars no one cares about?Episode HighlightsGen Z isn’t socialist or conservative—they just want change: Why young voters are open to radically different solutions and what that means for 2026The H1B visa debate exposed Trump’s messaging problem: Breaking down the real issue versus the nationalist backlashHealthcare is the new abortion: Why ACA subsidies will dominate the midterms and Republicans aren’t ready50-year mortgages and stimulus checks: When did the GOP become the party of gimmicks instead of solutions?The Fuentes-Tucker circus is really about 2028: How neocons are weaponizing controversies to undermine JD Vance’s futureUpgradeSupport Rivera and Reeves for early, ad-free episodes! Get full videos, crystal-clear audio, and exclusive content a day before YouTube. Join now to stay ahead and help us stay independent. Upgrade today!Get 30% off for 1 yearFollow Us On Youtube!YouTubeGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Intro: Where’s Rachel?02:35 The Democrat civil war that wasn’t07:09 Who’s fighting for MAGA after Trump?11:36 What does Gen Z actually want?18:26 The affordability crisis no one’s solving26:03 Peter Thiel was right about millennials and socialism32:25 Trump’s foreign student visa comments42:43 The H1B debate: nationalism vs. pragmatism55:10 Why Trump’s “everything is great” messaging is backfiring1:00:46 50-year mortgages and stimulus checks: GOP gimmicks?1:09:24 Healthcare will decide the midterms1:20:37 MSNBC’s diversity ad disasterSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
It’s Election Day, and if you’re not already stress-eating, you will be by tonight. Rachel and Meseidy break down the Heritage Foundation’s disastrous week responding to Tucker Carlson’s Nick Fuentes interview, analyze why New York is about to elect a CAIR-backed socialist as mayor, and give their brutally honest predictions for Virginia, New Jersey, and New York races. Spoiler: Republicans had all the momentum after Trump’s win—and somehow managed to fumble it. Press play before the results come in.Episode HighlightsHeritage Foundation’s leadership crisis: Kevin Roberts’ controversial statement and the fallout that followedZoran Mondani’s socialist playbook: How CAIR funding and youth appeal could reshape Democratic politicsElection Day predictions: Virginia, New Jersey, and New York races analyzed with brutal honestyThe Republican messaging problem: Why economic issues are losing to personality-driven campaignsUpgradeSupport Rivera and Reeves for early, ad-free episodes! Get full videos, crystal-clear audio, and exclusive content a day before YouTube. Join now to stay ahead and help us stay independent. Upgrade today!Get 30% off for 1 yearFollow Us On Youtube!YouTubeGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 - Intro and Election Day Setup04:30 - Heritage Foundation Crisis: Tucker, Fuentes, and Kevin Roberts20:29 - The Real Issue: Young Men and Conservative Messaging28:51 - Zoran Mondani’s Socialist Surge in NYC40:52 - CAIR Funding and Mondani’s Real Backers45:15 - Virginia, New Jersey, and Tonight’s Elections53:16 - 2028 Preview: Obama, Newsom, and the Democratic Bench59:46 - Final Predictions and Wrap-UpSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
This episode and comments are open to everyone—we want to hear from you. If you value this work, consider becoming a paying subscriber.When 70% of Americans distrust the Democratic Party, should conservatives celebrate? Rachel and Meseidy unpack a bombshell study revealing how progressives are repackaging socialism with economic populism. Then, they tackle the Tucker Carlson-Nick Fuentes interview that’s dividing the right. Is platforming extremists without pushback a free speech issue or a wisdom problem? A raw, unfiltered conversation about the horseshoe effect threatening both parties—and why discernment matters more than ever.Episode HighlightsThe Democrat Brand Crisis: A new study shows 70% of Americans view Democrats as out of touch—but the real story is who makes up that 70%Socialism’s Rebrand: How DSA-backed candidates are dropping identity politics for economic populism inspired by pre-2020 Bernie SandersTucker’s Nick Fuentes Problem: Why platforming extremists without challenging their record creates dangerous revisionist historyThe Woke Right Warning: How the right risks repeating the left’s mistake by ignoring fringe movements until it’s too lateAmerica First or Authoritarian First?: Unpacking Nick Fuentes’ admiration for China, Stalin, and what his vision of “America First” actually meansUpgradeSupport Rivera and Reeves for early, ad-free episodes! Get full videos, crystal-clear audio, and exclusive content a day before YouTube. Join now to stay ahead and help us stay independent. Upgrade today!Get 30% off for 1 yearFollow Us On Youtube!YouTubeGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters0:00 Intro: 70% of Americans Distrust Democrats—But There’s a Catch8:29 The Semaphore Study: Socialism’s Rebrand Strategy14:22 Democratic Socialists Are Coming to Your State26:01 Tucker Carlson’s Nick Fuentes Problem33:04 Why the Interview Wasn’t Journalism37:42 Nick Fuentes’ Actual Record on Race, Women, and Religion42:08 “America First” or Authoritarian Admiration?50:37 What Christians Should Know About Fuentes’ Theology58:26 The Horseshoe Effect: How the Right Risks Repeating the Left’s Mistakes1:04:31 Why Discernment Matters More Than Free Speech Absolutism1:09:05 Final Thoughts and Listener FeedbackSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Meseidy flies solo this week as Rachel scores last-minute access to Speaker Johnson’s daily press conference at the Capitol. We’re on day 28 of the government shutdown, with federal workers going unpaid, SNAP benefits on the chopping block, and trash piling up at national parks. Meanwhile, the Democrats and Republicans are pointing fingers while real Americans suffer the consequences.But it’s not all chaos: Trump is in Asia wrapping major trade deals with Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam—all building to a critical summit with China’s Xi Jinping. The stakes? Getting China to buy U.S. soybeans again after purchasing zero this year, leaving American farmers with one of their biggest harvests and nowhere to sell it.⚡ SPECIAL ACCESS NOTE: Due to today’s schedule changes, we’re making this episode available to EVERYONE on Substack—including the video and comments section—normally reserved for paid subscribers on publication day. Free subscribers usually wait until the next day when it hits YouTube. Consider this our way of rolling with the chaos. 😉Episode HighlightsRachel gets Capitol access: Last-minute invitation to Speaker Johnson’s press conference as the government shutdown enters day 28Shutdown impact escalates: Federal workers unpaid, SNAP benefits at risk, national parks overwhelmed, and airport delays mountingTrump’s Asia trade push: New deals with Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam—plus crucial summit with China’s Xi JinpingSoybean crisis explained: China has bought zero U.S. soybeans this year during one of the biggest harvests, devastating American farmersUnfiltered episode preview: The bizarre Pig War of 1859 and Trump’s White House lawn UFC fight compared to Teddy Roosevelt’s boxing matchesUpgradeSupport Rivera and Reeves for early, ad-free episodes! Get full videos, crystal-clear audio, and exclusive content a day before YouTube. Join now to stay ahead and help us stay independent. Upgrade today!Get 30% off for 1 yearUnFiltered 015 | The "Boar War" and UFC on the White House Lawn — How Trump Channels Teddy RooseveltMeseidy and Rachel ReevFollow Us On Youtube!YouTubeListen For Free at 6pmGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Episode Changes02:52 Government Shutdown Impact06:11 Behind the Scenes: Unfiltered Episode Teasers08:36 Historical Anecdotes: The Pig War11:58 Modern Absurdities: UFC on the White House Lawn15:39 Conclusion and Call to ActionSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Meseidy and Rachel dive deep into the unfolding scandal surrounding Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner—a progressive darling whose deleted Reddit posts and controversial Nazi-adjacent tattoo have Democrats scrambling. From his anti-work communist manifestos to his involvement with socialist paramilitary groups, Platner’s past is catching up with his political ambitions. The hosts contrast the left’s defense of Platner with their relentless attacks on Republicans like Pete Hegseth, exposing the glaring double standard in American politics. They also tackle Virginia attorney general candidate Jay Jones’s text message scandal, Abigail Spanberger’s defensive interviews, and Jen Psaki’s bizarre comments about JD and Usha Vance. With Bernie Sanders still warning about oligarchy after 32 years and progressives embracing candidates they would have canceled last year, this episode reveals the left’s desperate strategy heading into 2026.Episode HighlightsMaine’s Nazi Problem: Progressive Senate candidate Graham Platner faces dual scandals—deleted Reddit posts revealing communist sympathies and a chest tattoo closely resembling the Nazi SS Totenkopf symbol used by concentration camp guardsSocialist Militia Leader: New reporting exposes Platner’s role recruiting for and training members of the Socialist Rifle Association, a far-left paramilitary group, during the 2020 unrestThe Double Standard: While Pete Hegseth faced weeks of scrutiny over a Jerusalem cross tattoo falsely labeled as extremist, Democrats are defending Platner’s actual Nazi-adjacent imagery as a “drunk mistake”Virginia’s Violence Problem: Attorney General candidate Jay Jones continues his campaign despite text messages joking about killing political opponents and their children, with Democratic leaders refusing to call for his withdrawalThe New Progressive Playbook: As younger, more radical candidates like Platner and Mom Donnie gain traction, Democrats are abandoning their purity tests in favor of a “win at any cost” mentality that mirrors Trump’s political strategyUpgradeSupport Rivera and Reeves for early, ad-free episodes! Get full videos, crystal-clear audio, and exclusive content a day before YouTube. Join now to stay ahead and help us stay independent. Upgrade today!Get 30% off for 1 yearFollow Us On Youtube!YouTubeGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates04:03 The Rise of Graham Platner09:48 Controversial Reddit Posts and Political Implications19:36 Tattoo Controversy and Public Perception22:48 The Politics of Forgiveness25:51 The Changing Landscape of Political Accountability29:20 The Extremes of Political Ideology30:59 Grassroots Movements and Political Dynamics38:03 The Role of Media in Political Scrutiny43:55 The Reckless Politics of Jay Jones46:56 Normalizing Political Violence50:58 The Rise of New Political Candidates54:10 The Importance of Affordability in Politics56:47 Critique of Political Rhetoric and Media01:03:30 The Ongoing Fight Against OligarchySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Buckle up, friends—this episode is PACKED. Rachel and Meseidy dive into the chaos of New York’s mayoral race where Zuhair Mondani is about to take the wheel (gulp), break down a terrifying discovery about a Hamas-linked illegal immigrant who lied his way into Louisiana, and dissect the “No Kings” protests that somehow managed to be both massive and completely aimless. Oh, and we’ve got to talk about that AI poop video Trump posted because, yes, that’s where we are as a country. From Caroline Levitt’s legendary “your mom” clapback to the Huffington Post, to Karine Jean-Pierre’s delusional book tour, to the rare earth deal with Australia that nobody’s talking about—we’re covering it all. Plus: why the shutdown messaging battle is harder for Republicans than it should be, what the Democrat party’s radical restructuring actually looks like, and why Rachel simultaneously loves and hates everything about this administration’s communication style. It’s exhausting, it’s infuriating, it’s occasionally hilarious, and honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way.Episode HighlightsMondani’s Terrorist-Linked Imam Photo-Op - New York’s mayoral frontrunner poses with a Brooklyn imam connected to the 1993 World Trade Center bombing while refusing to condemn Hamas, and somehow Democrats think this is fine.Louisiana’s October 7th Participant - A Palestinian national who participated in the October 7th attacks lied on his visa application, waltzed into the US during the Biden administration, and was finally caught when Trump’s team started re-vetting applications.The “No Kings” Protest Data Drop - American University researchers reveal the typical DC protester was a 44-year-old white woman who heard about it on Instagram and literally couldn’t name a policy issue motivating her—just “Trump.”Caroline Levitt’s “Your Mom” Heard ‘Round the World - The 27-year-old White House Press Secretary responds to a Huffington Post hit piece setup with the most millennial comeback in political history, and honestly, we’re here for it.The Poop Video Discourse - Trump posts an AI video of himself dropping waste on protesters and somehow this becomes a 48-hour news cycle while the rare earth minerals deal with Australia gets completely ignored.UpgradeSupport Rivera and Reeves for early, ad-free episodes! Get full videos, crystal-clear audio, and exclusive content a day before YouTube. Join now to stay ahead and help us stay independent. Upgrade today!Get 30% off for 1 yearFollow Us On Youtube!YouTubeGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Busy Day at the White House03:02 Demolition and Controversy06:02 Trump’s National Guard Win09:05 New York Mayoral Race11:50 Mondani’s Controversial Connections17:32 Democratic Party Dynamics22:22 No Kings Protest Overview32:51 Protests and Participation Dynamics34:59 The Role of Trump in Political Mobilization36:11 Violence and Protest Rhetoric38:20 Signs of Discontent: Analyzing Protest Messages41:48 Counter-Protests and Public Engagement44:36 Understanding the Impact of Leadership on Protests47:44 The Permission Structure for Violence49:58 Funding and Organization of Protests54:25 Media Representation and Political Messaging01:02:46 The Impact of AI in Political Discourse01:07:48 Democratic Party Dynamics and Internal Struggles01:08:43 Humor and Controversy in Political Communication01:16:38 Policy vs. Style: Evaluating Trump’s Administration01:22:16 Global Politics and Future ImplicationsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Grab your coffee and buckle up because this episode is a wild grab bag of everything happening right now. We’re doing the weave—connecting all the random chaos from Chicago ICE operations and leaked text threads to Pentagon press passes and the ever-expanding gold takeover of the White House.Mercedes breaks down what’s really happening with ICE in Chicago (spoiler: the headlines aren’t telling you the whole story), and we dive deep into those leaked Young Republicans messages versus actual calls for political violence from people running for office. Rachel gets fired up about the media’s selective outrage, and we both try to figure out where we stand on the Pentagon’s new press restrictions. Plus, we’re tracking the continued gilding of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue—and yes, it’s spreading beyond the Oval Office now.If you’re tired of pearl-clutching double standards and want the full context the legacy media won’t give you, this one’s for you. Also, there’s a cat pillow involved. You’ll see.Episode HighlightsChicago ICE Operations: The Full Story - What really happened with that car accident and pit maneuver that the media conveniently left out of their headlines.Pentagon Press Pass Drama - Why legacy media outlets are walking out over new access restrictions, and whether it’s actually the attack on press freedom they’re claiming it is.The Leaked Text Thread vs. Jay Jones - Gross racist messages from nobodies get wall-to-wall coverage while a Virginia AG candidate’s violent fantasies get defended by Democrats.Media Selective Outrage Masterclass - Tim Kaine performs Olympic-level mental gymnastics trying to justify why Jay Jones doesn’t need to drop out of the race.The Gilding Has Escaped - Trump’s gold obsession has officially breached containment and is now spreading through the White House breezeway (and we’re here for it).UpgradeSupport Rivera and Reeves for early, ad-free episodes! Get full videos, crystal-clear audio, and exclusive content a day before YouTube. Join now to stay ahead and help us stay independent. Upgrade today!Get 30% off for 1 yearFollow Us On Youtube!YouTubeGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 - Intro & Bernie’s Sombrero03:37 - What Really Happened in Chicago08:12 - The 30-Minute Chase & Crowd Response11:11 - Misleading Headlines & Missing Context15:17 - Portland Antifa Blocks ICE Vehicles18:22 - Governor Pritzker Threatens Prosecution23:06 - Pentagon Press Pass Controversy28:17 - The Spicer vs. Hanna Debate31:58 - Physical Restrictions & Information Handling35:25 - The Federalist Calls Out Media Hypocrisy36:43 - Leaked Young Republicans Text Thread39:03 - Strategic Reporting & Charlie Kirk42:51 - Nobody’s vs. Virginia AG Candidate45:30 - Tim Kaine Defends the Indefensible51:52 - The News Nation Town Hall Showdown56:24 - The Denouncement Game59:32 - Blue Sky Celebrated Charlie’s Death1:01:08 - The Gilding Has Escaped1:02:15 - Will He Guild the Entire White House?1:05:18 - Outro & Wrap-UpSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
From McDonald’s to making world peace — Trump just did THAT. While the president was brokering Middle East peace deals and reuniting hostages with their families, progressives back home couldn’t even bring themselves to say his name. We’re breaking down Trump’s whirlwind trip to Israel and Egypt, the ICONIC reception he got from the Knesset (standing ovations for days), and the absolutely surreal moment he asked them to pardon Bibi. Plus, the hostage reunion videos that had us ugly crying, why three real estate developers just accomplished what career diplomats couldn’t, and the deafening silence from the “ceasefire now” crowd who suddenly have nothing to say.But wait, there’s more! We’re diving into the National Guard deployments that nobody’s talking about, the ICE operations propaganda war, and how DHS just turned an SNL skit into their best recruitment ad yet. Gavin Newsom continues to be the worst, Democrats are trying to rebrand a historic peace deal as “just a ceasefire,” and we’re getting real about what happens when you have leaders who actually know how to close a deal.Buckle up — this one’s packed.Episode HighlightsThree Real Estate Developers Broker World Peace - Trump, Kushner, and Witkoff met directly with Hamas leadership in Egypt to close the Gaza peace deal — proving that sometimes you need dealmakers, not diplomats.The Hostage Reunions That Broke Us - Twenty hostages returned home after years in Hamas captivity, including the iconic couple from the motorcycle video and a father whose youngest daughter didn’t recognize him.The Ceasefire Crowd Goes Silent - Progressives who spent two years screaming about Palestine can’t even acknowledge the peace deal or say Trump’s name — almost like it was never really about peace.From SNL Mockery to DHS Recruitment Gold - The administration flipped Tina Fey’s Kristi Noem impression into a legitimately badass ICE operations ad that has people ready to enlist.The National Guard Deployments No One’s Discussing - Memphis has National Guard troops dealing with crime, and unlike Portland and Chicago, nobody’s talking about it — probably because it’s actually working.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone elseNext Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works BetterFor Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.YouTubeReady to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:Hours of early access before everyone elseDedicated ad-free podcast feed on SubstackFull video episodes right in your feedMonthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere elseCommunity access with people who actually think for themselvesGet 30% off for 1 yearThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Presidential Arrival02:37 Gaza-Israel Peace Deal and Hostage Release06:15 Trump’s Reception in Israel08:25 Negotiations and Diplomatic Strategies11:19 The Role of Real Estate Developers in Diplomacy14:19 Criticism of Trump’s Peace Declaration17:09 Humor and Highlights from Trump’s Speech19:55 Bibi’s Legal Troubles and Trump’s Support23:13 Conclusion and Reflections on the Event28:59 The President’s Popularity and Global Perception30:35 Middle East Peace Negotiations: A New Approach32:44 Hostage Situations and Humanitarian Concerns38:02 Reunions and Emotional Responses39:13 The Silence of Activists and Political Responses41:27 Internal Conflicts in Gaza47:17 Political Reactions to Peace Deals53:37 The Role of Social Media in Political Discourse56:52 Breaking News and Domestic Issues57:47 National Guard Deployments and Protests59:08 Crime and the National Guard’s Role01:02:24 Political Implications of Crime Management01:05:05 SNL Skit and Political Satire01:07:28 DHS and ICE Operations01:09:31 Media Manipulation and Public Perception01:12:41 Political Rhetoric and Authoritarianism01:16:00 Protests and Public SentimentSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Trump just pulled off what Biden couldn’t in two years—and the media is absolutely melting down about it. We’re breaking down the Israel-Gaza peace deal announcement, why the Nobel Peace Prize suddenly matters again, and how Democrats are literally trying to arrest elected officials for... doing their jobs?Plus, we’re diving into the National Guard drama in Chicago and Portland (spoiler: federal law still exists, guys), the ACA healthcare disaster that’s about to hit Americans RIGHT before midterms, and oh yeah—California might just hand the House back to Democrats with Prop 50.And if that wasn’t enough, we’ve got the WILDEST interview meltdown you’ve ever seen from California gubernatorial candidate Katie Porter. Seriously, you have to see this woman lose it on camera. It’s equal parts horrifying and revealing about how Democrats actually view you.Buckle up—this one’s a ride.Episode HighlightsTrump’s Peace Deal Speedrun – While Obama got a Nobel Prize for “hope,” Trump just brokered peace agreements in seven conflict zones in less than a year, including the Israel-Gaza deal that Biden couldn’t touch in two years.The National Guard Showdown – Texas National Guard troops are staged outside Chicago after federal judges played games with deployment orders, and Democrats are screaming “authoritarianism” while literally ignoring federal law.Healthcare Sticker Shock Incoming – ACA subsidies are expiring and healthcare costs are about to spike 75% for millions of Americans RIGHT before midterms—and MTG is sounding the alarm while Congress plays chicken.California’s House Heist – Prop 50 is polling dangerously close to passing, which would wipe out the five seats Republicans just gained in Texas and potentially hand the House back to Democrats in 2026.Katie Porter’s Meltdown – California’s gubernatorial candidate had an absolute breakdown on camera when a reporter dared to ask her actual questions, revealing the entitled, condescending rage that’s been bubbling under the surface all along.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone elseNext Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works BetterFor Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.YouTubeReady to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:Hours of early access before everyone elseDedicated ad-free podcast feed on SubstackFull video episodes right in your feedMonthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere elseCommunity access with people who actually think for themselvesGet 30% off for 1 yearThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context02:57 Breaking News: Peace Deal in the Middle East06:03 Trump’s Diplomatic Efforts and Peace Negotiations08:56 Domestic Issues: National Guard Deployments11:58 Federal Law vs. State Law15:12 Sanctuary Cities and Immigration Policies17:55 Chicago’s Executive Order and Federal Enforcement22:40 The Enforcement Dilemma: ICE and Local Law Enforcement25:31 Confrontations and Community Reactions30:56 Federal vs. Local Authority: A Legal Tug-of-War35:43 The Insurrection Act: A Tool for Federal Enforcement?40:34 Healthcare and Immigration: The ACA Debate49:23 The Cost of Healthcare: A Double-Edged Sword50:02 Political Landscape and Midterm Challenges52:00 Redistricting and Its Implications53:59 California’s Prop 50 and Its Consequences56:27 Katie Porter: A Controversial Figure01:08:43 Political Violence and Rhetoric01:09:52 Closing Thoughts and Future PlansSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Welcome to another episode of Rivera and Reeves where we tackle the biggest news stories with zero filter and maximum memes. This week, Meseidy and Rachel team up with foreign policy extraordinaire Amanda Peterson to break down Trump’s Israel-Gaza peace deal (or is it?), Bibi’s White House visit, and why Hamas keeps hitting snooze on ending their own so-called “genocide.”Then we pivot to Secretary Hegseth’s epic smackdown of out-of-shape generals, the media’s predictable Hitler comparisons, and why telling military officers to do a pull-up is apparently controversial in 2025.But wait—the real star of this episode? The Great Sombrero Meme War. Trump posts a spicy AI meme, Hakeem Jeffries throws a struggle session press conference with Maxine Waters nodding in the background, and JD Vance just grins his way through the chaos. We break down why Republicans are winning the meme game and why Democrats are still trying to Brad their way back to relevance with academic think pieces nobody reads.Spoiler alert: The sombrero wins. It just does.Episode HighlightsThe Peace Deal That May Not Bring Peace - Trump and Bibi announce a 20-point Gaza plan while Hamas leadership is literally locked in their Qatar hotel rooms deciding whether to stop their own “genocide.”Tony Blair: Your New Middle East Peace Czar - Why the former UK Prime Minister is chairing the “Board of Peace” and what Jared Kushner’s investment fund has to do with the whole thing.Hegseth’s No-BS Military Makeover - The Defense Secretary tells generals to stop being fat, ditch the pronouns, and maybe do some actual PT—and the media compares it to Hitler.Sombrero-Gate Breaks the Internet - Trump posts an AI meme of Hakeem Jeffries in a sombrero, Democrats hold a struggle session press conference, and we explain why this is actually effective political messaging.Why the Meme Game Is the New Political Battlefield - From Brat Summer to chubby JD Vance faces, we break down why Republicans are dominating online messaging while Democrats keep writing Atlantic think pieces nobody reads.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone elseNext Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works BetterFor Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.YouTubeReady to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:Hours of early access before everyone elseDedicated ad-free podcast feed on SubstackFull video episodes right in your feedMonthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere elseCommunity access with people who actually think for themselvesGet 30% off for 1 yearThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Israel-Palestine Situation03:05 The Peace Deal Negotiations09:31 Details of the Proposed Agreement12:57 Hamas’s Response and Regional Dynamics16:52 Trust Issues and Future Implications24:22 Turkey’s Role and International Relations27:14 Understanding the Dynamics of Israeli Command Structure29:38 The Geopolitical Landscape: Russia, China, and Military Strategies33:10 The Shift in Military Warfare: Drones and Modern Defense41:03 Hegseth’s Speech: A Call for Military Reform54:34 The Debate on Military Standards and Fitness55:58 The Subversion of Tradition56:57 The Military and Gender Norms57:37 Modernism vs. Postmodernism in Politics58:28 The Political Meme Game01:00:25 The Sombrero Meme Controversy01:05:18 The Role of Humor in Politics01:11:03 The Evolution of Political MessagingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Rachel and Meseidy dive into the wildest superintendent scandal you’ve ever heard: a decorated Olympian, multiple doctorates, and... wait for it... a deportation order. How did Iowa’s largest school district manage to hire an illegal immigrant who may or may not have invented half his resume? Spoiler: Nobody did a background check because that would be racist, apparently.Then we’re heading to “war-ravaged” Portland (Trump’s words, not ours), where the National Guard is deploying to protect ICE facilities from protesters with laser pointers and a lot of feelings. Democrats say it’s fine, everything’s fine, look at these bubbles! Meanwhile, officers are boarding up windows and dodging projectiles. Totally normal stuff.Plus: Trump brands literally everything (Trump RX, anyone?), veterans and mental health, and why Rachel and Meseidy accidentally showed up with matching nails. Because if you’re going to discuss federal law enforcement, you might as well look cute doing it.Episode HighlightsTrump RX Launches Mid-Government Shutdown Drama President Trump announces a direct-to-consumer drug buying website with Pfizer in what may be the most strategically timed announcement ever, considering Democrats are currently screaming about ACA funding.The Iowa Superintendent Who Wasn’t Supposed to Exist Ian Andre Roberts—Olympian, multiple doctorate holder, and superintendent of Iowa’s largest school district—gets arrested by ICE after fleeing in his government vehicle, exposing a hiring process that apparently skipped the “is this person here legally?” question.Resume Fraud Gets an Olympic Gold Medal Turns out Roberts claimed degrees he didn’t have, may have been born in Ghana OR Brooklyn (depending on which interview you read), and nobody bothered to verify any of it because his resume was just that impressive.“War-Ravaged Portland” Gets the National Guard Trump deploys troops to protect ICE facilities in Portland after months of attacks, boarded windows, and laser pointers aimed at helicopters—but sure, everything’s totally fine according to Oregon’s governor doing a TikTok tour.Radical Empathy vs. Federal Law Iowa school board chair calls for “radical empathy” for the superintendent who lied about his credentials, fled from ICE, and had an illegal firearm—because apparently following the law is less important than feelings.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone elseNext Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works BetterFor Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.YouTubeReady to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:Hours of early access before everyone elseDedicated ad-free podcast feed on SubstackFull video episodes right in your feedMonthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere elseCommunity access with people who actually think for themselvesGet 30% off for 1 yearThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Current Events and Humor03:33 Trump’s Drug Buying Website Announcement06:31 Mental Health Crisis Among Veterans08:57 Illegal Immigration and the Iowa Superintendent Incident17:35 State Communication Failures and Background Checks21:57 The Role of Consulting Firms in Hiring Practices26:25 Media Narratives and Public Perception31:04 Diversity in Hiring and Accountability36:21 Protests and Public Response to Law Enforcement42:13 National Guard Deployment in Portland42:33 Trump’s National Guard Deployment and Its Implications46:03 Media Narratives and Public Perception48:25 Contrasting Perspectives on Portland’s Situation53:58 The Ongoing Tensions and Safety Concerns01:00:00 Legal Battles and Political Dynamics01:01:59 Future Prospects and Broader ImplicationsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
We’re breaking down the “anti-ICE” bullets, the sniper setup, and why Gavin Newsom’s timing with his anti-ICE rhetoric is chef’s kiss perfectly awful. Plus, Rachel and I are DONE with the gaslighting about left-wing violence – especially now that even The Atlantic admits what we’ve been saying all along.And don’t even get us started on Jimmy Kimmel’s pathetic non-apology while Google literally admits they censored Americans at Biden’s behest. Meanwhile, JD Vance is out here telling people they can “go straight to hell” and we’re absolutely here for it. Oh, and Trump’s new presidential photo display? Controversial doesn’t even begin to cover it.Your new favorite podcast just delivered another episode of pure, unfiltered truth. You’re welcome.Episode HighlightsDallas ICE Sniper Attack Breakdown - Joshua Jean fired “anti-ICE” inscribed bullets from an apartment rooftop, proving this wasn’t random violence but targeted political terrorism.The Atlantic Finally Admits Left-Wing Violence Surge - For the first time in 30+ years, a major left-leaning publication acknowledges that far-left attacks now outnumber far-right ones.Google Confesses to Biden Administration Censorship - Internal attorneys admit the company caved to direct pressure from Biden himself, removing over 1 million COVID videos and deplatforming major conservative voices.JD Vance’s “Go Straight to Hell” Moment - The Vice President delivered a fiery response to critics questioning his facts about the ICE shooting, and we’re absolutely living for this energy.Trump’s Gilded Presidential Photo Trolling - The new White House breezeway display features an auto-pen signing Biden’s signature, and the media meltdown is exactly what you’d expect.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone elseNext Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works BetterFor Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.YouTubeReady to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:Hours of early access before everyone elseDedicated ad-free podcast feed on SubstackFull video episodes right in your feedMonthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere elseCommunity access with people who actually think for themselvesGet 30% off for 1 yearThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes04:25 Discussion on ICE Field Office Shooting09:53 Analysis of Media Reporting and Misinformation15:36 Context of Violence Against ICE Agents20:51 Political Rhetoric and Its Consequences28:04 The Complexity of Violence and Martyrdom28:57 The Impact of Graphic Violence in Media31:29 Rising Political Violence: A Shift to the Left33:47 The Atlantic’s Surprising Admission on Political Violence36:31 Antifa: Designation and Its Implications40:56 JD Vance’s Strong Response to Violence47:58 Jimmy Kimmel’s Non-Apology and Media Hypocrisy52:55 The Humor in Politics53:50 Critique of Media and Political Figures54:54 Censorship and Free Speech Concerns58:00 Government Pressure on Social Media59:51 The Impact of Censorship on Individuals01:01:36 Comparing Political Reactions to Censorship01:03:43 The Role of Media in Political Narratives01:05:59 The Shift in Political Messaging01:07:03 The Controversy Surrounding Kamala Harris01:09:46 Trump’s Political Maneuvering01:11:41 The Symbolism of Presidential Imagery01:14:06 A Lighthearted Moment in Politics01:16:44 Closing Thoughts and Future EpisodesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Starting off with Trump making Macron walk to the UN (and yes, world leaders apparently have each other on speed dial), to the Jimmy Kimmel controversy that's costing Disney half of its affiliates, we're breaking down what's really happening.But the real meat of this episode? Our deep dive into Charlie Kirk's memorial service that had 200,000 people trying to attend, world leaders sharing the gospel, and the left absolutely losing their minds over what they're calling "Christian nationalism." Spoiler alert: they have no idea what they're talking about, and we're here to set the record straight. Additionally, we'll explain why Erica Kirk's speech about forgiveness went viral and why that terrifies progressives more than anything else.Episode HighlightsMarco Rubio Turned Preacher - The Secretary of State delivered one of the clearest gospel presentations at Charlie Kirk's memorial, leaving everyone wondering if he missed his calling as an evangelist.Stephen Miller's "Controversial" Speech - The left is calling it Nazi propaganda, but we break down why his message about Western civilization and builders vs. destroyers hit exactly the right note.Trump's Honest Moment About Enemies - The President admitted he doesn't like his political opponents and maybe Erica Kirk could convince him otherwise, sending the media into another meltdown over basic human honesty.Erica Kirk's Powerful Forgiveness - Charlie's widow forgave her husband's assassin in front of 64,000 people, and progressives are so uncomfortable with real Christianity they're calling it "performance art."The Great Christian Nationalism Panic - We expose why the left is terrified of Christians being politically active and why their "theocracy" fears reveal how disconnected they are from actual faith communities.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties00:57 Work-Life Balance and Productivity04:02 Home Renovations and Personal Projects06:43 Current Events and Political Commentary09:51 Health Concerns and Medication Discussions14:34 Media and Entertainment Industry Updates18:55 Media Representation and Predictability19:44 Violence and Censorship in Media21:43 Assassination Attempts and Political Violence23:24 Memorials and Public Gatherings25:32 Highlights from the Memorial Service27:17 Political Speeches and Gospel Messages31:58 The Balance of Faith and Politics36:18 Stephen Miller's Controversial Speech44:24 Trump's Presence and Memorial Etiquette45:13 Analyzing Trump's Speech and Human Moments47:59 The Role of Humor in Serious Contexts50:21 Public Reactions to Erica Kirk's Speech53:57 Understanding Christian Nationalism and Media Narratives56:45 The Disconnect Between Media and Reality59:54 The Importance of Faith in Politics01:04:49 The Revival of Christianity in America01:07:30 Cultural Perspectives on Christianity01:13:42 The Need for Representation in SocietyNew ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone elseNext Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works BetterFor Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.YouTubeReady to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:Hours of early access before everyone elseDedicated ad-free podcast feed on SubstackFull video episodes right in your feedMonthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere elseCommunity access with people who actually think for themselvesGet 30% off for 1 yearThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
This week has been absolutely WILD, and we're breaking down all the chaos for you. Jimmy Kimmel's show got the boot from major networks after his tone-deaf comments about Charlie Kirk's assassination, and honestly? It's about time there were consequences. We're diving deep into the text messages between the alleged assassin and his roommate (because these 22-year-olds clearly thought they were criminal masterminds), plus we're calling out Obama for his ridiculous comments about "extremism" - the audacity! Rachel nearly had a coronary over the media's desperate attempts to humanize a literal assassin, and we're not here for any of it. The gaslighting has been STRONG this week, but we're cutting through all the BS to give you the truth. Buckle up, friends - this one's a doozy!Episode HighlightsJimmy Kimmel Gets the Axe - Two major media groups pulled his show indefinitely after his disgusting comments about Charlie Kirk's assassination, and he's refusing to apologize like the stubborn Hollywood elite he is.The Assassin's Text Messages - We break down the bizarre text exchange between Tyler Robinson and his roommate that reads like a bad Breaking Bad fanfiction, complete with "my love" and references to his grandfather's rifle.Obama's Audacious Comeback - The former president had the nerve to lecture about "extremism" and division while conveniently forgetting his own administration's legacy of racial tension and government overreach.Media's Sick Humanization Campaign - CNN panels are literally trying to paint the assassin as a troubled romantic who killed for love, and we're calling out this demonic narrative for what it is.JD Vance's Presidential Moment - The VP delivered exactly the kind of passionate, truth-telling response this country needed instead of milk-toast unity platitudes.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone elseNext Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works BetterFor Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.YouTubeReady to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:Hours of early access before everyone elseDedicated ad-free podcast feed on SubstackFull video episodes right in your feedMonthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere elseCommunity access with people who actually think for themselvesGet 30% off for 1 yearThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context Setting02:06 The Assassination of Charlie Kirk03:02 Jimmy Kimmel's Controversial Comments05:25 Media Reactions and Public Discourse11:20 The Role of the FCC and Media Regulations18:45 Consequences of Kimmel's Remarks26:57 The Broader Implications of Free Speech28:41 Media Polarization and Misinformation30:48 Free Speech and Government Regulation32:51 Cultural Reactions to Violence and Comedy35:34 The Impact of Political Assassination39:49 Public Accountability and Cancel Culture43:36 Disney's Cultural Dilemma45:50 The Assassination Case of Charlie Kirk56:10 The Complexity of Exoneration59:24 Investigating Connections and Motives01:02:01 Media Narratives and Public Perception01:05:59 The Role of Ideology in Violence01:08:53 Political Responses and Accountability01:11:41 Youth Influence and Cultural Impact01:14:40 The Need for Justice and Unity01:18:35 Positive Change and Community SupportSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
On today's episode, Meseidy and Rachel dive headfirst into the chaos surrounding Charlie Kirk's assassination, tackling the conspiracy theories, wild speculation, and downright irresponsible content that's been flooding social media. From questioning the "official narrative" to dissecting Candace Owens' inflammatory accusations against Israel, the hosts aren't holding back. They're serving up some much-needed critical thinking in a world where everyone wants answers right now and influencers are monetizing tragedy faster than you can say "clickbait thumbnail." Warning: This episode contains strong opinions, frustrated sighs, and a plea for people to stop outsourcing truth to social media personalities. Also, it's usually way more fun than this, we promise.Episode HighlightsConspiracy Theories vs. Critical Thinking - Mercedes and Rachel break down why immediate assassination conspiracy theories are dangerous and explain why law enforcement can't dump all evidence publicly without compromising prosecution.The Candace Owens Controversy - A detailed analysis of Candace Owens' inflammatory episode featuring accusations against Israel, including why the hosts believe she's monetizing Charlie Kirk's death with eight mid-roll ads and donation requests.Discord Evidence and Potential Co-conspirators - Discussion of the digital forensic evidence showing Tyler Robinson may have had accomplices who knew about the assassination beforehand through group chats.Bill Ackman "Intervention" Debunked - The hosts examine and refute claims about a supposed dinner where Bill Ackman allegedly threatened Charlie Kirk over his Israel stance, including official responses from Turning Point USA staff.Outsourcing Truth to Influencers - A passionate plea for Christians and conservatives to stop blindly trusting social media personalities and to seek discernment through faith rather than confirmation bias loops.New ScheduleWe've completely restructured how we deliver content because you deserve better than the old system. Here's exactly how it works now and what it means for you:4:00 PM (Sometimes Earlier) - Paid subscribers get full episode (audio + video) ad-free on Substack6:00 PM - Free audio with ads goes live for everyone elseNext Day - Full video episode hits YouTube with our fresh new brandingWhy This Schedule Works BetterFor Paid Subscribers: You get the content when you want it, how you want it, without interruptions. While everyone else is reacting to breaking news, you're already three steps ahead in the analysis.For Free Listeners: You still get the full episode, just with a small delay and some ads. Fair trade for free content.For YouTube Viewers: You get the visual experience and can easily share segments. Plus, every view helps us build toward our goals.YouTubeReady to Upgrade?Paid subscribers get:Hours of early access before everyone elseDedicated ad-free podcast feed on SubstackFull video episodes right in your feedMonthly Unfiltered Episodes (subscriber favorite - the gloves come off)Exclusive video content you won't find anywhere elseCommunity access with people who actually think for themselvesGet 30% off for 1 yearThe bottom line: While everyone else is waiting for yesterday's news, you'll already be analyzing tomorrow's headlines.Your subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Get R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context Setting03:00 Q&A Session on Charlie Kirk's Assassination06:08 Official Narrative and Conspiracy Theories09:10 Critical Thinking on Government Involvement11:59 Media's Role in Information Dissemination14:52 Investigation Insights and Evidence18:02 Societal Implications of Violence21:06 Discussion on Political Ideologies24:26 The Role of Online Communities26:35 Legal Implications of Foreknowledge29:46 Conclusion and Future Considerations43:04 Conspiracy Theories and Influence46:31 The Impact of Social Media on Public Discourse50:46 Navigating Grief and Public Reactions55:44 Questioning Allegations and Media Narratives01:01:38 The Role of Trust in Information Consumption01:07:41 Finding Stability in Uncertainty01:10:29 The Dangers of Speculation and Conspiracy01:18:49 The Responsibility of InfluencersSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
In this raw and emotional episode, Meseidy and Rachel process the shocking assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Recording just hours after the tragic events unfolded, the hosts grapple with what this means for America, political discourse, and the rising tide of violence targeting those who dare to speak truth on college campuses. From their initial reactions to the media's coverage, from Trump's Oval Office address to the ongoing manhunt - this is an unfiltered conversation about a moment that changed everything. Warning: This episode contains discussion of graphic content and addresses the harsh realities of political violence in America.Episode HighlightsCharlie Kirk's Final Moments - The hosts break down the timeline of events at Utah Valley University and why this assassination represents an attack on the most fundamental American principles.Media Response Analysis - A scathing review of how MSNBC, CNN, and other outlets covered the breaking news, including the shocking on-air reactions that got people fired.Trump's Oval Office Address - Why the president's direct response calling out left-wing rhetoric was exactly what the moment demanded, despite criticism.The Social Media Evidence - From witches' hexes on Etsy to celebration posts getting hundreds of thousands of likes, the disturbing online reaction reveals this isn't "fringe" anymore.What Comes Next - Drawing parallels to the violence of the 1960s and 70s, the hosts wrestle with whether America is heading toward something even worse this time.Listen Ad FreeLove what you’re hearing and want even more? Join us as a paid supporter on Substack! As a subscriber, you’ll unlock ad-free podcast episodes, full access to our archives, and exclusive subscriber-only perks like bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, and our in-the-moment reaction videos. Plus, you’ll be directly supporting our mission to cut through the media spin and deliver sharp, honest analysis every week.Get 30% off for 1 yearYour subscription helps us stay independent and keep creating the content you love. So why wait? Support the show and subscribe today!Podcast NewsAnd exciting news: we've officially launched our YouTube channel as we gear up for video content! We're already over halfway to our goal with over 889 subscribers, but we need to hit 1,000 to unlock monetization. Plus, we need 4,000 total views - so if you have a few minutes, check out the segment videos we've been posting. Every view and subscribe helps us build this thing together!YouTubeGet R&R Merch!Our official merchandise store is NOW OPEN! 🛍️ We've launched with our first four items to get things started, including coffee mugs, oversize t-shirt and a tote bag. You can check out everything available right now.Chapters00:00 Processing Tragedy: The Impact of Political Violence15:37 The Role of Media and Political Rhetoric31:07 A New Era: Reflections on Change and Fear33:50 Navigating the Current News Cycle34:18 Reflections on Historical Turmoil36:17 Comparing Past and Present Turmoil39:31 The Role of Technology in Modern Discourse41:30 The Impact of Media on Public Perception44:07 Reactions to Political Violence47:40 The Complexity of Political Assassination49:28 Updates on the Charlie Kirk Incident01:01:56 The Broader Implications of Political ViolenceSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
we have a packed episode for you today! Rachel is fired up about Trump's late-night meme spree (complete with AI-generated Rosie O'Donnell content that has the White House co-signing), while Meseidy breaks down the US literally blowing up a Venezuelan drug boat and why some Democrats are apparently siding with traffickers. We dive deep into NYC's mayoral race where a literal communist is leading the polls, RFK Jr. going full fire mode in his Senate hearing, and the potential $200 million shakeup that could put Barry Weiss in charge of CBS News.But the real meat of this episode? We're breaking down that Epstein victims press conference from yesterday that everyone's talking about but no one's actually analyzing. After watching the whole thing and doing our homework, we've got some serious questions about the narrative everyone's been running with for years. Spoiler alert: this might not be the pedophile ring story you think it is, and we're not afraid to ask the uncomfortable questions that apparently got other journalists kicked out of the press conference.Plus, Putin and Xi got caught on a hot mic talking about achieving immortality through organ transplants because apparently dictators are just weird sixth-graders with nuclear weapons.Episode HighlightsTrump's Meme Meltdown - Rachel absolutely loses it over the White House resharing Trump's AI-enhanced Rosie O'Donnell content while actual presidential business waitsUS Goes Boom on Drug Boat - Meseidy breaks down the Venezuelan vessel strike that killed 11 people and why Democrat talking heads are more upset about due process than fentanyl traffickingCommunist Runs NYC - The wild NYC mayoral race where Mondani leads the polls and Trump might be playing chess to stop a literal communist takeoverEpstein Press Conference Truth Bomb - We actually watched the whole thing and have serious questions about whether this "pedophile ring" narrative holds up when most alleged victims were adultsBarry Weiss Gets $200M Offer - The Free Press potentially handing CBS the keys while we question if legacy media can actually be saved or if this kills independent journalismWant More Rivera and Reeves? Our paying Substack subscribers get every episode hours earlier (goal: 4 PM), completely ad-free, with exclusive video access. Plus, you get our unfiltered takes, dedicated podcast feed, and access to our community of people who actually think for themselves. Ready to upgrade? We're offering 30% off annual subscriptions - check the link in our show notes.Get 30% off for 1 yearEpisode HighlightsChapters00:00 Trump's Social Media Rants03:29 The Impact of Trump's Online Behavior09:29 US Military Action Against Venezuelan Cartels16:30 Political Reactions to Military Actions21:26 New York Mayoral Race Dynamics21:53 RFK Jr. vs. Senate: A Fiery Confrontation24:19 The Rise of Independent Media: Barry Weiss and The Free Press27:56 CBS News and The Free Press: A Potential Acquisition?34:57 Epstein Victims Speak: A Press Conference Analysis38:45 The Epstein Transparency Act: Challenges and Implications52:11 Clarifying the Epstein Narrative: Victims and Allegations56:25 The Complexity of Sex Trafficking Allegations59:42 Political Theater and Press Conference Dynamics01:05:21 Credibility and Victimhood in the Epstein Case01:10:21 The Role of Political Messaging in Public Perception01:14:38 Hot Mic Moments and Global Leadership DynamicsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/rivera-and-reeves/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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