Armstrong & Getty On Demand: "The Best Thing To Do--Get Another Panda!"
Release Date: November 22, 2024
Host: Armstrong & Getty
Published by: iHeartPodcasts
Episode Overview
In this engaging episode of the Armstrong & Getty On Demand podcast titled "The Best Thing To Do--Get Another Panda!", hosts Armstrong and Getty delve into a variety of topical discussions ranging from media criticism to the impact of video games on children. Skipping the usual advertisements and non-content segments, the duo provides insightful commentary with their characteristic humor and sharp wit, making the episode both informative and entertaining for listeners who haven't tuned in.
Rosie O'Donnell's Reaction to Mika and Joe's Visit to Trump
The episode kicks off with a heated discussion about Rosie O'Donnell's reaction to Mika and Joe Biden visiting Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Armstrong opens the topic with a mix of incredulity and amusement.
Armstrong (00:05): "I think the best thing to do would be get another Panda. It's one more thing. Armstrong and Getty. One more thing."
The hosts express their disbelief at O'Donnell’s response, questioning the logic behind praising actions that contradict previous criticisms. Getty highlights the inconsistency in her stance.
Getty (12:34): "She's right about that one part, but I don't blame the viewers who have reacted that way."
The conversation underscores the polarized nature of political alliances and public reactions, emphasizing how quickly opinions can shift in the media landscape.
Morning Joe: Declining Viewership and Media Shift
Transitioning from celebrity reactions, Armstrong and Getty move to analyze the declining viewership of Morning Joe, a popular cable news program. They scrutinize the reasons behind its dip in ratings despite high production costs.
Armstrong (15:20): "Monday 6am Hour of Morning Joe had 113,000 viewers in demo... the next day after their big announcement, 81,000. That's a pretty big drop off in one day."
Getty draws parallels with other media companies experiencing subscriber losses, suggesting a broader trend of instability within traditional news outlets.
Getty (16:45): "And I guess Scarborough and Mika talked yesterday about we might be done in a year and Mika said we might be done tomorrow."
They debate whether the fall of Morning Joe signifies a larger decline in cable news' relevance, especially in comparison to the explosive reach of digital platforms like Joe Rogan’s podcast.
Armstrong (18:10): "With Joe Rogan having 75 million views versus Morning Joe's 80,000... change is inevitable."
This segment highlights the shifting dynamics of media consumption, where digital and on-demand platforms are rapidly overshadowing traditional cable formats.
The Role of Video Games in Child Development
Shifting gears, the hosts explore the impact of video games on children, specifically discussing a game called Planet Zoo that is popular with Getty’s son. Armstrong shares his ambivalence about video games, reflecting on his own upbringing and contrasting it with modern gaming trends.
Getty (22:05): "I know I've read a lot of the studies and all that sort of stuff, but I just don't feel like television did any damage to me. So I don't know where I am on video games."
Armstrong elaborates on the educational benefits of Planet Zoo, praising its complexity and ability to teach business management skills through gameplay.
Armstrong (24:30): "It's like running a business, keeping track of visitors, managing exhibits, hiring people... it's fascinating."
They discuss how such games can stimulate critical thinking and problem-solving skills in children, contrasting it with more violent or less structured gaming experiences.
Getty (29:50): "It gets your brain going in so many different directions that are necessary to understand the world and business."
The conversation also touches on the potential for integrating AI into educational games, envisioning even more sophisticated learning tools for future generations.
Humorous Banter and Light-Hearted Moments
True to their style, Armstrong and Getty infuse the episode with humor, particularly when brainstorming playful and absurd scenarios related to the topics discussed. For instance, when joking about the potential dark turns of video games, Armstrong humorously suggests:
Armstrong (27:15): "If he ever gets tired of the zoo, there's Ho Palace where you're running a brothel... Candy hurt her ankle so she can't hang upside down from the pole anymore."
Getty quips back with a laugh, demonstrating their effortless chemistry and ability to keep discussions lively and relatable.
Conclusion: Embracing Change and Innovation
Wrapping up the episode, Armstrong and Getty reflect on the importance of adaptability in both media consumption and parenting. They emphasize embracing new technologies and platforms while maintaining critical perspectives on their impacts.
Armstrong (35:00): "Change is inevitable. We just have to figure out how to navigate it without losing sight of what's important."
This thoughtful closing underscores the episode’s central themes of evolution, whether in media landscapes or in the tools and games shaping the minds of the younger generation.
Key Takeaways
- Media Evolution: Traditional cable news faces declining viewership as digital platforms gain dominance.
- Political Reactions: Public figures' inconsistent stances can influence audience perceptions and trust.
- Educational Gaming: Video games like Planet Zoo offer valuable learning experiences, fostering business acumen and critical thinking in children.
- Adaptability: Embracing technological advancements while critically assessing their impacts is crucial in today's fast-paced world.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Armstrong (12:34): "She's right about that one part, but I don't blame the viewers who have reacted that way."
- Armstrong (15:20): "Monday 6am Hour of Morning Joe had 113,000 viewers in demo... the next day after their big announcement, 81,000."
- Getty (22:05): "I know I've read a lot of the studies and all that sort of stuff, but I just don't feel like television did any damage to me."
- Armstrong (24:30): "It's like running a business, keeping track of visitors, managing exhibits, hiring people... it's fascinating."
- Getty (29:50): "It gets your brain going in so many different directions that are necessary to understand the world and business."
- Armstrong (35:00): "Change is inevitable. We just have to figure out how to navigate it without losing sight of what's important."
Final Thoughts
"The Best Thing To Do--Get Another Panda!" is a testament to Armstrong and Getty's ability to tackle diverse topics with depth and humor. Whether dissecting the pitfalls of modern media or exploring the constructive facets of gaming, the hosts provide listeners with valuable insights and plenty of laughs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in contemporary media trends, parenting in the digital age, or simply enjoying a well-rounded conversation between two seasoned radio veterans.