Armstrong & Getty On Demand: "Listen Here You Scabby Hag"

Release Date: June 12, 2025
Host: Jack Armstrong & Joe Getty
Description: The official, On-Demand podcast of The Armstrong & Getty Show! Accept no substitutes!

Introduction

"Armstrong & Getty On Demand" kicked off their episode "Listen Here You Scabby Hag" from the George Washington Broadcast Center at [03:17]. Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty immediately dive into the day's headlines with their trademark blend of humor and candid commentary.

Current Events and Political Commentary

Middle East Tensions and US Policy:
The hosts discuss the United States' strategic withdrawal, noting, "The US has begun evacuating non-essential staff from embassies and military bases throughout the Middle East as tensions rise with Iran" ([05:23]). Armstrong speculates on potential military actions, saying, "We could see explosions at the nuclear site in Tehran, possibly with Israel's active involvement" ([05:31]).

Trade Talks with China:
Armstrong highlights Trump's announcement regarding the conclusion of trade talks with China: "Trump announced a successful end to trade talks with China today" ([05:47]). They critique the negotiation tactics, with Joe Getty adding, "If you're familiar with sales techniques, that's Trump doing something I'm sure he's done many times" ([05:53]).

Homelessness and Aging Population:
A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the alarming rise in homelessness among seniors. Getty references an NPR report stating, "In the 90s, the average age of a homeless person was 30. Now it's 50. Recently, people aged 50 and older have increased from 10% to over half of the homeless population" ([30:07]). Armstrong disputes the NPR explanation, arguing, "Housing is extremely expensive virtually all over the country" ([34:54]). They further debate the root causes, with Armstrong asserting, "It's mostly a drug problem. A lot of those older homeless people are drug casualties" ([33:50]).

Political Figures and Elections:
The duo doesn't shy away from critiquing prominent political figures. They discuss Andrew Cuomo's mayoral bid in New York, with Getty sarcastically stating, "Andrew Cuomo is the best choice. He's better than a communist" ([08:01]). Armstrong expands, "Brandon Johnson in Chicago is a union hack, a Marxist, a moron" ([09:00]). Their commentary underscores a broader critique of Democratic policies and representatives.

Tribute to Brian Wilson

News of Brian Wilson's Passing:
At [17:35], Joe Getty shares the breaking news of Brian Wilson's death: "News broke while we were on the air yesterday that Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys had died at age 82" ([17:35]). This leads into a heartfelt tribute to the legendary musician.

Brian Wilson's Legacy and Struggles:
The hosts delve deep into Wilson's life, highlighting his musical genius and personal battles. Armstrong reflects, "He was the Beach Boys to a great extent. His brother Dennis Wilson said, no, Brian is the Beach Boys" ([19:13]). They discuss his innovative contributions, such as creating "Good Vibrations" largely on his own while the band was on tour ([23:58]). Getty adds, "Brian Wilson was one of pop's most gifted and idiosyncratic studio auteurs" ([20:22]).

Personal Turmoil and Mental Health:
The conversation shifts to Wilson's struggles with mental illness and his tumultuous relationship with his father and psychiatrist Eugene Landy. Getty narrates from a New York Times obituary, "His father had long tormented him physically and emotionally. One form of punishment was forcing Brian to stare into the empty socket of his glass eye" ([22:41]). They discuss Landy's unethical practices, including taking songwriting credits and financial gain from Wilson's work.

Final Thoughts and Reflections

Military Parades vs. Protests:
Towards the end of the episode, Armstrong and Getty discuss President Trump's stance on protests related to military parades. Armstrong states, "The President absolutely supports peaceful protests" ([44:13]), but later controversially suggests, "We'll be cracking heads. First Amendment will die tomorrow at noon" ([45:07]).

Upcoming Protests:
Getty brings up the "No Kings, No Crowns" protest scheduled for Flag Day, expressing concern over potential clashes with military parades. "They're hoping to take back the flag and patriotism from the evil Republicans with the No Kings, No Crowns protest" ([47:33]).

Personal Anecdotes and Humor:
The hosts sprinkle personal stories and humor throughout, such as Getty recounting his son's excitement over an Omaha Steaks delivery ([53:32]) and Armstrong joking about turning into a "scabby hag" ([38:47]).

Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty share their final thoughts, blending serious commentary with their signature humor. Armstrong muses about the importance of congressional action on immigration laws, while Getty reflects on the challenges facing the nation.

Notable Quotes

• Armstrong on Trump's Trade Talks: "If you're familiar with sales techniques, that's Trump doing something I'm sure he's done many times." ([05:55])

• Getty on Homelessness Trends: "First of all, in the 90s, the average age of a homeless person was 30. Now it's 50." ([30:07])

• Armstrong on Brian Wilson's Genius: "His later career was really innovative, much like how the Beatles upped the ante with Sergeant Pepper’s after Pet Sounds." ([19:01])

• Getty on Protests and Parades: "Trump just did an hour plus press conference. Remember the old guy who did like one in four years? Anyway, he said this." ([44:37])

Conclusion

"Listen Here You Scabby Hag" provided listeners with a blend of sharp political analysis, heartfelt tributes, and the unique comedic interplay between Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty. From dissecting current events and political dynamics to honoring the legacy of Brian Wilson, the episode offered a comprehensive and engaging discourse for those both familiar and unfamiliar with the show.