Armstrong & Getty On Demand: "Other Peoples Pain Keeps Me Going" – Detailed Summary

Release Date: January 21, 2025

In the episode titled "Other Peoples Pain Keeps Me Going," hosts Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty delve into a range of current political and social issues with their characteristic blend of humor and critical analysis. Broadcasting live from the Abraham Lincoln radio studio at the George Washington Broadcast Center, Armstrong and Getty tackle topics from immigration policies and media portrayals to presidential pardon powers and cybersecurity concerns. This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and notable moments from the episode.

1. Immigration Policies and Asylum Seekers

The episode opens with a heated discussion on the impact of recent immigration policies under the Trump and Biden administrations.

• Joe Getty criticizes the cancellation of asylum appointments, highlighting the plight of migrants like the woman in Juarez, Mexico:

  "[00:25] Joe Getty: These new policies already having an impact. This asylum seeker in Juarez, Mexico, breaking down... thousands of migrants like her are in limbo. Nice job, ABC News finding one person crying."

• Jack Armstrong counters by emphasizing the legitimacy of the woman's distress:

  "[00:48] Jack Armstrong: NPR had the same crying gal. No, she's not a nut. She's not a nut at all..."

The hosts argue that the app introduced by the Biden administration for asylum applications was flawed, leading to administrative chaos and emotional distress among migrants.

2. Media Portrayal of Migrants' Emotions

Armstrong and Getty critique major news outlets for their selective portrayal of migrant experiences.

• Joe Getty mocks the media's focus on individual suffering while ignoring broader issues:

  "[01:35] Joe Getty: Did you see the New York Times? Over the weekend, 85% of Americans want criminal illegals booted..."

• Jack Armstrong reinforces this point by pointing out the lack of coverage on more severe migrant-related tragedies:

  "[01:51] Jack Armstrong: ABC and NPR didn't do a lot of airing of the tears of the relatives of people slain by Venezuelan gang members..."

3. Presidential Pardon Powers and Political Ramifications

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing the controversial use of presidential pardon powers by both Trump and Biden administrations.

• Joe Getty expresses disdain for the notion of preemptive pardons, especially when aimed at family members:

  "[25:23] Joe Getty: Is there an innocent explanation for someone to seek preemptive pardons for family members?... it's weird."

• The hosts explore the implications of such actions, suggesting that preemptive pardons may be perceived as admissions of guilt:

  "[26:36] Jack Armstrong: Would you see that as essentially an admission of guilt?"

  "[26:39] Joe Getty: I certainly would view it that way. Millions of Americans would view it that way."

• They also touch upon the potential for abuse of pardon powers in future administrations, emphasizing the need for reform.

4. Cybersecurity and Common PIN Vulnerabilities

Shifting gears, Armstrong and Getty address cybersecurity concerns, specifically focusing on commonly used four-digit PINs that are susceptible to hacking.

• Jack Armstrong lists the top ten ill-advised PIN numbers, emphasizing the risks:

  "[15:11] Jack Armstrong: So there you go, your top ten Ill advised pins... 1, 2, 3, 4."

• Joe Getty humorously admits to using the same PIN across various platforms, highlighting the absurdity of the issue:

  "[15:24] Joe Getty: I've got the same four number PIN for everything I do... I've had the same four numbers for 25 years."

This segment serves as both an informative warning and a comedic take on personal cybersecurity practices.

5. IRS Tax Reporting Changes

The hosts discuss the Internal Revenue Service's new regulations requiring increased tax reporting for online sales.

• Jack Armstrong explains the shift in thresholds for the 1099-K tax form:

  "[11:09] Joe Getty: Got him. Threshold is that?"

  "[12:11] Jack Armstrong: The IRS is going to phase in the change, setting the $5,000 threshold for last year, $2,500 for this year, and $600 for 2026."

• Joe Getty voices skepticism about the practicality of these lowered thresholds:

  "[13:28] Joe Getty: I don't think it's realistic to get down to those levels."

The discussion highlights concerns about the administrative burden on small businesses and individuals engaged in online commerce.

6. Pop Culture Commentary: The Bob Dylan Movie

Armstrong and Getty diverge into a spirited conversation about the recently released Bob Dylan movie, critiquing both the film and the musician's public persona.

• Joe Getty shares his disappointment with live performances, referencing Dylan's less-than-stellar showtimes:

  "[20:22] Joe Getty: It was one of the worst things I've ever seen."

• Jack Armstrong contrasts his experience with the cultural impact of Bob Dylan:

  "[20:52] Jack Armstrong: I'm a guitar player. I'm not doing that. That's a rare guy."

• The hosts lament the disconnect between Dylan's musical legacy and his contemporary reception, illustrating their struggle to connect with the artist's current relevance.

7. Final Thoughts and Light-Hearted Banter

As the episode winds down, Armstrong and Getty share final observations and engage in playful banter.

• Joe Getty highlights a humorous headline about Trump dancing to "YMCA" with a sword, sparking laughter and casual commentary.

• The hosts briefly touch upon various political figures and upcoming events, maintaining their signature irreverent tone.

• They conclude with a nod to their audience, encouraging listeners to visit their website for more content and to submit topics for future discussions.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "Other people's pain is what keeps me going."
  Joe Getty [02:01]

• "You got to stop rewarding people for acting like children."
  Jack Armstrong [03:06]

• "If you know somebody who's not 1099 in their babysitter, is there like a percentage you get when the IRS busts."
  Jack Armstrong [16:59]

• "Millions of Americans would view it that way."
  Joe Getty [26:39]

• "I'm a guitar player. I'm not doing that. That's a rare guy."
  Jack Armstrong [20:52]

Conclusion

In "Other Peoples Pain Keeps Me Going," Armstrong and Getty offer a critical lens on contemporary political issues, media practices, and societal behaviors. Through incisive commentary and sharp wit, they challenge prevailing narratives and encourage listeners to question the status quo. Whether dissecting immigration policies, debating the ethics of presidential pardons, or poking fun at pop culture phenomena, the hosts maintain a compelling and engaging discourse that provokes thoughtful reflection and entertained critique.