Gary and Shannon

'The Economy of Language'

HOUR 1 (06/24) – Gary & Shannon discuss whether another fire and another out-of-town trip will create any political problems for Mayor Karen Bass, why Europe is dealing with record-breaking heat, LAUSD's decision to limit screen time for younger students, and the growing parent backlash against classroom technology. Plus, whatever happened to the white picket fence, and what our taller fences say about modern life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's Not Even Hidden

HOUR 2 (06/24) – Gary & Shannon examine new reports showing major Gavin Newsom donors later received political appointments and discuss why legal doesn't always mean it looks good.They also break down a staggering $6.5 billion healthcare fraud crackdown featuring luxury cars, yachts, beach resorts, and one provider who somehow billed more counseling hours than exist in a day.Plus, Encino residents want answers about a mysterious orange stream running through their neighborhood, and they then explore whether being an "otrovert" finally explains why some people prefer one-on-one conversations over crowds and group identities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Democratic Socialists Are Coming for 2028

HOUR 3 (06/24) – Gary & Shannon cover the latest developments from the Boyle Heights warehouse fire, the start of the Palisades Fire jury trial, a 5.6 earthquake in Northern California, and FIFA's decision to mandate hydration breaks for players.In #SwampWatch, they discuss the growing influence of Democratic Socialists following major wins in New York City, President Trump's push to pass the SAVE Act, conflicting claims over Iran's willingness to allow nuclear inspections, and whether today's AI chatbots are politically biased or simply telling users what they want to hear.Plus, comedian and parenting expert Justin Worsham joins the show to explain why youth sports may be one of the best investments parents can make and tackles the surprisingly divisive question of whether parents should be allowed to enjoy a drink, or even a joint, while watching their kids play.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

That Sounds Like the Worst High Ever

HOUR 1 (06/23) - Elmer prepares for a real-life five-day silent retreat complete with no talking, no laughing, and no eye contact. Shannon declares it "the worst high ever," Gary wonders what exactly needs clearing out of Elmer's head, and then things somehow get even worse when a man jumps into a vault toilet to retrieve his sunglasses and ends up needing paramedics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can We Just Put the Milk Back?

HOUR 2 (06/23) - The saga of the Reflecting Pool continues as President Trump blames vandalism for the algae and dead ducks, but Gary & Shannon wonder who's really at fault.Listener talk-backs keep pouring in about Elmer's upcoming five-day silent retreat, California moves to eliminate "sell by" dates, and Shannon asks, "So this is what they're up to in Sacramento?"Plus, Gary & Shannon get candid about choosing stories for the show, why people are increasingly avoiding bad news, and how nonstop tragedy can overwhelm our brains.They eventually circle back to the silent retreat, where one writer said the experience nearly broke her brain and made time feel like it had completely stopped.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.