Episodes

  • A Century of Hollywood Politics - Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    A Century of Hollywood Politics - Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    May 7 2025
    17 mins
  • Shedeur Sanders and Politics - Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    Shedeur Sanders and Politics - Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Apr 30 2025
    The NFL draft is not just a sporting event; it's a reflection of society's deepest currents. Shedeur Sanders, the Big 12's Player of the Year, found himself entangled in this complex web as he navigated unexpected challenges despite his accolades and high-profile mentorship from his father, the legendary Deion Sanders. This episode uncovers the intricate politics and perceptions within professional sports, drawing parallels between Shedeur's experience and the pitfalls faced by politicians. We explore how the echo chambers surrounding influential figures can distort reality, often leading to their downfall.

    Through Shedeur's story, we venture into broader societal issues, questioning the current state of media and free speech. By examining historical figures like Napoleon, we spotlight the dangers of living in insulated environments, where sycophants and echo chambers reign supreme. This engaging discussion encourages listeners to seek out opposing viewpoints, stay grounded, and hold leaders accountable. We unravel the threads that weave through sports, politics, and media, highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping a more informed and balanced world.
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    16 mins
  • One World Government? HG Wells Was Wrong - Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    One World Government? HG Wells Was Wrong - Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Apr 23 2025
    Literature has shaped history and society in ways that often go unnoticed. Join us for a captivating discussion with Jack Atherton as we unravel the profound influence of literary giants like Harriet Beecher Stowe, Charles Dickens, and Upton Sinclair, who courageously highlighted societal injustices through their powerful narratives. With a spotlight on H.G. Wells, we explore his audacious vision of a one world government and socialist ideals that left a significant mark on early 20th-century political thought. By examining the historical context of these ideas and the consequences of socialism and nationalism in Europe, we draw connections to the political dynamics of today. Discover how historical insights can illuminate our understanding of power, corruption, and governance in the modern era.
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    14 mins
  • Trump's Discount Tariffs - Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    Trump's Discount Tariffs - Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Apr 3 2025

    Jack Atherton talks about Trump's reciprocal tariffs and their profound repercussions on the U.S. economy in our latest episode. We'll guide you through the eye-opening tariff chart that President Trump used to spotlight the substantial barriers American goods face in markets like China and the European Union. Our discussion promises to unravel how these tariffs are not just about trade wars but a strategic move aimed at re-industrializing America and fortifying the middle class. Unpack the contradictions of U.S. aid recipients imposing tariffs on American imports and explore the potential for reshaping trade relations with countries like Canada, Mexico, and Israel through more equitable practices.

    Join us as we address the complexities of manufacturing and labor costs in America amidst fierce global competition. Examine the factors driving companies to relocate from union-heavy states and the critical role of domestic labor agreements. As a pro-union advocate, I'll highlight the essential need for collaborative efforts between management and labor unions to sustain business operations without pushing them overseas. This episode emphasizes the necessity for balanced and constructive negotiations to keep the American workforce competitive and maintain a healthy economic ecosystem in the face of international pressures.
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    13 mins
  • Shakespeare's Advice for Trump - Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    Shakespeare's Advice for Trump - Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Apr 2 2025
    Tariffs could be the Trojan horse that reshapes America's economy, but are they a boon or a blunder? Today, we delve into President Trump's impending announcement on tariffs, connecting the dots between his bold economic strategies and the timeless wisdom of Shakespeare. As we unpack Trump's policies on securing borders and reviving economic growth through tax and regulatory cuts, we examine the delicate dance of tariffs, questioning whether they are a strategic masterstroke or a potential misstep. Shakespeare's lessons on power and unpredictability offer a unique lens to assess the potential impact of these tariffs on the global stage, and how they might transform America's middle class.

    Get ready for a riveting conversation that combines history, literature, and contemporary politics. With reciprocal tariffs in the spotlight, we'll explore how Trump's plans could either revive American manufacturing or sow seeds of global economic anxiety. From the intricacies of predatory trade practices to the power of reciprocity, we weigh the pros and cons of wielding tariffs like a giant's club. As we navigate this landscape, we'll question whether the unpredictability that Trump champions is a formidable weapon or a treacherous path. Tune in to hear how these elements come together while keeping a keen eye on both allies and rivals in the international arena.
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    15 mins
  • The Politics of Envy - Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    The Politics of Envy - Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Mar 26 2025
    Jack Atherton journeys back to ancient Athens, recounting tales like the ostracism of Aristides, to uncover how envy has been wielded as a political weapon. Our discussion navigates through the resilience of capitalism in Western societies, juxtaposed against the backdrop of Marxist allure and communist revolutions in agrarian nations. We further dissect the influence of Marxist thought in modern academia and media, while contrasting the philosophies of Barack Obama and Donald Trump on hard work and government intervention. Elon Musk emerges as a modern embodiment of this age-old struggle, facing envy despite his groundbreaking contributions.

    In a shift towards optimism, Jack enlightens us with encouraging data on young people’s growing engagement in politics. His insights shine a light on the hopeful trajectory of future generations, providing a refreshing counterbalance to the political challenges we face. Together, we celebrate the core American values of opportunity and entrepreneurship, underscoring their vital role in shaping a prosperous future. This episode is both a critique of envy’s enduring legacy and a celebration of youthful vigor, promising rich discussions to inspire our listeners.
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    12 mins
  • Bringing Good Jobs Back Home - Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    Bringing Good Jobs Back Home - Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Mar 19 2025
    Forty years ago, I was just another aspiring journalist submitting my master's thesis at Columbia, never imagining that I'd share an anniversary with Donald Trump. Back then, Trump was a rising real estate developer and an unexpected advocate for American workers, voicing concerns about jobs vanishing overseas. His warning of a "huge sucking sound" resonated with my own exploration of job loss in New York City's garment district, a subject close to my heart, given my family's immigrant roots. This episode takes you through my journey from a corporate lawyer to a truth-seeking journalist, all while navigating the shifting tides of America's economic landscape.

    Join us as we untangle the complex web of politics, economics, and social changes that have reshaped American manufacturing and the middle class. Our conversation highlights the stories of immigrant communities who built their lives and industries in the U.S., only to face the realities of offshoring and global competition. From a chance encounter with Trump and his unexpected support for Vietnam veterans to the broader implications of trade policies, we offer historical insights and personal anecdotes that reveal the far-reaching impacts of these economic shifts. Listen in to understand how these transformative events have left lasting marks on our present and what they mean for the future of American industry.
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    15 mins
  • How Art Became Woke - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    How Art Became Woke - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Mar 12 2025
    Could Donald Trump be the unlikely catalyst for a new cultural renaissance? This episode challenges the conventions of modern art by exploring its complex relationship with politics and cultural values. Jack critically examines how reducing "woke" government funding could lead to an artistic golden age, echoing the shared truths of early Christian art, the human-centric focus of the Renaissance, and the Romantic era's celebration of individual expression. Our discussion highlights the Overture Awards, a prestigious platform for high school talent, as a beacon of hope for a cultural revival steered by youth embracing traditional American values.
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    13 mins