Lazy and complacent episode in a usually fine podcast
This is usually a really classy podcast, but not today’s discussion from McTague and James Marriott. It was supposedly about the politics of popular culture but actually it was about the podcast offerings of Joe Rogan, Lex Freedman et al. Remarkably, there was no discussion at all of what really defines these podcasts, which is their essentially blokey character. Instead we were treated to a celebration of their freedom and spontaneity, said to draw listeners in preference to the plodding broadcast mainstream or, even worse, progressive lefty platforms which try to police your speech. Fine to take this view, but not fine to present it as a serious discussion of popular culture. Why stop short of exploring the gender dynamics of these podcasts? Interestingly, McTague and Marriott talk about podcasts as things listen to at home, alongside “your wife” while you both get on with things. And their political advice to Kemi Badenoch is to get on these podcasts “and just sit there, smoke a cigar and open a can of beer and talk”. Really. I don’t think Helen would have put up with this apology for a serious analysis.
quentinskinnerfan via Apple Podcasts · Great Britain · 11/18/24
More reviews of These Times
This has rapidly become my “must listen” politics and history podcast. The dynamic between the hosts is perfect - calm, intelligent and illuminating discussions that weave history, economics, politics and culture together. Don’t stop!
JimTicks via Apple Podcasts · Australia · 06/05/23
No other podcast synthesises history, politics and economics so brilliantly. Tom and Helen pull you back and make you see current events from the widest perspective—it’s almost apocalyptic in its scope.
Yitzack21 via Apple Podcasts · Great Britain · 05/22/24
Intelligent, devoid of bombast and gimmick. A very fine podcast.
Patmartin via Apple Podcasts · Great Britain · 06/20/24
Do you host a podcast?
Track your ranks and reviews from Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more.