AMERICA'S DECLINE; Can it be reversed? - #908

America now faces the consequences of its moral decline. Can the nation be saved? Savage compares the biblical story of Noah's Ark and the flood to the personal and societal upheaval in America today. He discusses current fears of an impending apocalypse due to global events like the Russia-Ukraine conflict and domestic unrest.He draws parallels between Noah's effort to build an ark to preserve life and the necessity for individuals to create personal 'arks' to maintain inner peace amidst chaos. He urges listeners to seek peace and kindness in their daily lives and to prepare spiritually for turbulent times.

The New Yorker described Savage as, "a marvellous storyteller, a quirky thinker, and an incorrigible free-associator. He sometimes sounds less like a political commentator than like the star of a riveting and unusually vivid one-man play." Listen to these beloved tales from the master storyteller on this extraordinary episode. He reminisces on his tough teachers, life for the working class in Queens, the tight-knit communities of yesteryear, and the human condition. First, listen about the no-nonsense Irish Geometry teacher who would be fired in today's woke schools; his father's friend who moved into middle class only to suffer a sad fate; Louie who taught him to straighten nails with his own hands; the tale of The Jar, and many more. He explores the unpredictable nature of life as the year draws to a close. Please share this remarkable episode with your friends and loved ones!

Savage discusses "The Women Who Flew for Hitler," a book about Hitler's heroic women pilots. He uses their stories to delve into how nationalism and patriotism, when detached from moral integrity, can evolve into racism and zealotry. He highlights the stark differences between two pilots and their contrasting beliefs and actions during Nazi Germany. Savage links these historical lessons to contemporary issues in America, emphasizing the importance of maintaining moral integrity in nationalism and patriotism.

President Trump has signed an order to reclassify cannabis, moving it from Schedule I to Schedule III drug. Savage discusses the impact of high THC marijuana on adolescent brain development and public health with Laura Stack, founder of Johnny's Ambassadors. Laura shares her personal tragedy of losing her son, Johnny, to suicide after he developed cannabis-induced psychosis. The conversation addresses the normalization and legalization of marijuana, its connections to mental health issues, increased potency in modern cannabis products, and its negative effects on youth, including psychosis, violence, and addiction. They discuss how emergency rooms nationwide have been plagued by 'scromiting' a debilitating condition that triggers episodes of relentless nausea, abdominal pain and severe vomiting in chronic weed users. Learn how profits are being prioritized over the health of the people. They also touch on political influences and the need for more public education to combat the growing epidemic of marijuana-related harms among teenagers.

Savage addresses the troubling proliferation of hate and rage on social media and its role in driving engagement, while traditional media declines. He discusses the shocking violence,  including the murder of Rob Reiner and his wife by their own son, a massacre of innocent Jews by two Muslims, and the unexplained killings at Brown University. He questions why such events are becoming more frequent. Savage explains how hate has become commercialized and speculates what role marijuana may play in the rise of violence and psychosis.

Savage discusses the recent upset victory in Miami, where a Democrat was elected mayor for the first time since 1977. Savage examines potential reasons for this outcome, such as deportations, cost of living, and shifts in voter sentiment. He criticizes the Trump-backed candidate's campaign and offers his perspective on the broader trends indicating an increase in socialist leanings and dissatisfaction with MAGA policies. Savage stresses how economic conditions will shape upcoming elections.

Savage explores the concept that strength and weakness are interconnected, inspired by attending his mother Rachel's memorial service. He reflects on his personal experiences, including the struggles of caring for his disabled brother and the societal issues of modern America. Using personal anecdotes and biblical references, he emphasizes that true strength comes from acknowledging one's limitations and finding power in faith and from God. He then shares his journey into radio, highlighting how crying out to God and perseverance helped him succeed despite numerous challenges. He concludes with the notion that vengeance should be left to God, and in weakness, one can find true strength.

Savage analyzes the recent Tennessee special election which was closer than usual in the Republican stronghold state. What does this mean for the GOP in 2026? Savage warns against arrogance, greed in challenging economic times. He cautions that hubris could jeopardize future elections. He appeals to President Trump to heed his cautions, emphasizing the need for a focus on economy and humility. He also stresses the importance of environmental conservation, citing historical conservation efforts by Teddy Roosevelt as a benchmark. 

Savage speaks with Joel Pollak about his new role as the Opinion Editor for the California Post, a soon-to-be-launched West Coast offshoot of the New York Post. Pollak emphasizes the publication's mission to present alternative viewpoints often suppressed in California, particularly those critical of the current Democratic leadership. The conversation also touches upon Gavin Newsom's political career, his controversial podcast with conservative guests, and his presidential aspirations. Pollak outlines his plans to bring together prominent Californian voices and think tanks to offer fresh perspectives on governance. The discussion concludes with speculation about future political contenders for the 2028 Presidential Election and the future of California and beyond.

Savage reprises some of his best Thanksgiving specials of the past on this special holiday podcast! First, he explores the dread some have around the dinner table at the holidays. From 2006, hear why it's actually masculine to cook according to cultures around the world. Then, hear Savage's Thanksgiving sermon and the myths around Thanksgiving from 2019. In a 2012 broadcast, Savage laments the lost art of conversation and the declining work ethic in America.