Armstrong & Getty On Demand: Episode Summary

Title: Oooohhh...You're the Smart, Sophisticated One!? Release Date: July 21, 2025 Host/Authors: Jack Armstrong & Joe Getty Podcast Platform: iHeartPodcasts

In this incisive episode of Armstrong & Getty On Demand, hosts Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty delve into the intriguing juxtaposition between the perceived intelligence of New York Times readers and their belief in unconventional phenomena such as pet psychics. Through sharp wit and critical analysis, the duo dissects a specific New York Times article on pet psychics, exploring themes of rationality, credibility, and societal beliefs.

Perceived Intelligence vs. Beliefs in the Absurd

00:04 – 00:54

Joe Getty opens the conversation by challenging the notion that New York Times readers, often deemed "smart and sophisticated," paradoxically endorse beliefs in psychics and pet psychics. He muses:

"If New York Times readers are the ones that are smart and sophisticated compared to the rest of us... why are there so many articles about psychics and even pet psychics and so many people who believe in that crap?"
— Joe Getty [00:22]

Jack Armstrong counters with humor, highlighting the irony of New York Times promoting such content:

"Armstrong and Getty. One more thing. If I was gonna work up a big belch to follow that, but it was too much even for me."
— Jack Armstrong [00:08]

Critique of Progressive Claims on Evidence-Based Decisions

00:54 – 02:12

The discussion shifts to a critique of Nate Silver's take on the cancellation of Stephen Colbert's show, where Silver attributes progressives as the group valuing "evidence-based decisions." Armstrong expresses disbelief:

"Progressives have very carefully assessed the evidence and decided on thumbs up."
— Jack Armstrong [02:12]

Joe Getty counters the stereotype, arguing that conservatives prioritize facts and figures, suggesting a misrepresentation by Silver.

The New York Times and Pet Psychics

02:12 – 04:34

Joe Getty narrates his personal encounter with a pet psychic featured in the New York Times:

"I took my dog to a psychic, and I think it worked. When I look into my dog's soulful brown eyes... In other words, a dog."
— Joe Getty [02:34]

The hosts humorously discuss the authenticity and necessity of such services, with Armstrong sharing his skepticism:

"A dog. Yeah. I think Buddy is the perfect name for a dog... Might as well just give him that name."
— Jack Armstrong [02:46]

Evaluating the Pet Psychic Experience

04:03 – 07:06

Getty recounts the pet psychic's insights into his dog Buddy's thoughts and desires, questioning the validity of such claims:

"Buddy had some wild requests like, I want to ride on a big boat... Aware of mortality and boating."
— Joe Getty [05:42]

Armstrong parodies Buddy's supposed sophistication, emphasizing the absurdity:

"Buddy, old buddy the boater. He is a unique dog. And your money is well invested with this pet communicator."
— Jack Armstrong [07:29]

The Economics and Ethics of Pet Psychics

07:06 – 09:59

The conversation delves into the motivations behind pet psychics, suggesting financial incentives and exploitation:

"She went to vet school and still thought, you know, I'll bet there's more money in ripping off these morons..."
— Joe Getty [03:12]

Getty further critiques the lack of tangible benefits, highlighting the dubious nature of the services offered.

Humorous Takeaways and Final Thoughts

09:59 – 10:26

Wrapping up, Armstrong and Getty use humor to underscore their skepticism:

"An ocean voyage and some bullcock. That's what I long for. Wow."
— Jack Armstrong [09:59]

They collectively mock the credibility of pet psychics, reinforcing the episode's central theme of questioning societal beliefs despite professed intelligence.

Conclusion

In "Oooohhh...You're the Smart, Sophisticated One!?", Armstrong and Getty adeptly navigate the tension between intellect and irrational beliefs. Through witty banter and critical examination, they shed light on the contradictions within educated circles, particularly those aligned with esteemed publications like the New York Times. The episode serves as both a humorous critique and a call for greater skepticism in the face of pseudoscientific claims.

Notable Quotes:

• Joe Getty [00:22]: "If New York Times readers are the ones that are smart and sophisticated compared to the rest of us... why are there so many articles about psychics and even pet psychics and so many people who believe in that crap?"

• Jack Armstrong [02:12]: "Progressives have very carefully assessed the evidence and decided on thumbs up."

• Joe Getty [05:42]: "Buddy had some wild requests like, I want to ride on a big boat... Aware of mortality and boating."

• Jack Armstrong [07:29]: "Buddy, old buddy the boater. He is a unique dog. And your money is well invested with this pet communicator."

This episode is a must-listen for enthusiasts of sharp social commentary, blending humor with critical insights into contemporary societal trends.