Politics, Pop Culture, and the Death of Fun :: Ep 46 Circling the Drain Podcast

On this episode of Circling The Drain, Johnny B, Jay Harper, and Jim talk about how political division has seeped into every corner of entertainment and media. They trade stories from talk radio, debate Trump’s influence on patriot events, and unpack why fans are turning on artists who get too political from the stage.

The guys also reminisce about women who changed rock (Linda Ronstadt, Ann and Nancy Wilson, Amy Lee), underrated girl and boy bands, and classic film stars and directors. They hit on the Morgan Wallen and Jason Aldean controversies, the 250th celebration tied to Trump, CMA Fest politics, and how talk radio and cable news are burning people out. It’s part nostalgia, part media critique, and part “can we please just enjoy a show again?”

Includes:

– Behind-the-scenes stories from talk radio and WTN

– How politics hijacked July 4th and the 250th celebration

– Country music’s culture war: Jason Aldean, Morgan Wallen, Beyoncé, CMA/ACM awards

– Why conservative talk radio has become an echo chamber

– Classic crushes and icons: Linda Ronstadt, Bridget Fonda, Cher, Marilyn Monroe

– Film noir, Turner Classic Movies, and Spielberg’s new UFO film

– Trace Adkins, Taylor Sheridan, and dream casting for Yellowstone-style shows

Timed Highlights:

0:00 Lioness, Linus and dad-joke cold open