Episode Summary: Armstrong & Getty On Demand – "You Can't Order Human Beings Without Onions"

Release Date: February 24, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
Description: The official, On-Demand podcast of The Armstrong & Getty Show! Accept no substitutes!

1. Navigating the High-Severity Flu Season

Timestamp: 02:03 – 04:04

The episode opens with a discussion on the formidable flu season affecting 23 states, classified as a high severity period by the CDC—the first of its kind in seven years. Officials report approximately 19,000 flu-related deaths this season, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Joe Getty shares a personal anecdote, recounting extensive travels via airports, planes, and other public transport without experiencing typical flu symptoms. Curious and concerned, he mentions researching his symptoms online and self-diagnosing potential flu infection.

Ashley Kinetti empathizes, noting how the relentless flu season has impacted individuals and families. There's a humorous yet relatable exchange about the challenges of maintaining health amidst widespread flu activity.

Notable Quote:

Joe Getty (03:13): "Wow. I just did a little trip. So I was in airports, I was on planes, I was in Ubers, I was in restaurants, etc. And I don't feel I have a sore throat today and a couple other symptoms I won't mention. Anyway, I googled them and it says unmentionable symptoms."

2. The AP Stylebook Under Fire

Timestamp: 04:03 – 12:04

The hosts delve into a heated critique of the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, arguing that it has shifted from a nonpartisan journalistic guide to an instrument promoting a specific ideological agenda. They highlight several controversial changes, such as capitalizing "Black" when referring to race—a deviation from traditional usage.

Ashley Kinetti asserts that the AP Stylebook now weaponizes language to push a progressive worldview, causing a rift in American journalism. She cites the banning of terms like "illegal immigrant" and "alien," labeling these directives as racist and unnecessary.

Joe Getty agrees, expressing surprise and frustration over these changes, which he believes undermine journalistic objectivity and alienate conservative audiences.

Notable Quotes:

Ashley Kinetti (07:33): "The AP is as bad as the Southern Poverty Law center or the, you know the the former not NAACP. No that's not it. I was a card carrying member of the ACLU. That's it. Yes. They're awful."

Joe Getty (10:43): "Yeah, right. So they're trying to, to, to push it out as opposed to reflect on a change."

The conversation further critiques the AP's stance on transgender terminology, asserting that the Stylebook's guidelines are out of touch with biological realities and contribute to societal confusion.

3. Elon Musk’s Controversial Memo to Government Employees

Timestamp: 12:04 – 39:34

Transitioning to workplace dynamics, Joe Getty brings up Elon Musk's memo instructing government employees to list five justifications for their roles, hinting at potential job cuts or resignations for non-compliance.

Ashley Kinetti and Joe Getty discuss the absurdity and impracticality of this directive, questioning its effectiveness and the likelihood of employees genuinely responding. They speculate on the memo's intent, suggesting it may be a form of trolling or a test of employee loyalty.

The hosts lament the overreach of such management tactics, debating the feasibility of justifying one's job responsibilities in a bureaucratic environment. They also touch on the broader implications for government efficiency and employee morale.

Notable Quotes:

Joe Getty (27:05): "I personally know people and work in the federal government who have made their lists that if you haven't heard this news story, Elon put that out to all federal employees. You gotta, you gotta write him an email, send it to him. The five things you did last week that show that your, your job is necessary and then I don't know."

Ashley Kinetti (28:11): "Well, no, it's not. I mean in principle it's wonderful, but, it's just, it's silly because even the department's heads Trump appointed are saying no, don't do that."

4. Public Opinion on Transgender Athletes in Sports

Timestamp: 39:34 – 34:02

The discussion shifts to the contentious issue of transgender athletes competing in women's sports. Joe Getty references polling data from the New York Times indicating that approximately 80% of Americans oppose the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's competitions.

Ashley Kinetti and Joe Getty explore the societal and cultural divisions this issue has fostered. They analyze the statistics, noting overwhelming bipartisan support for their stance, and criticize media portrayal of the controversy as more balanced than the data suggests.

The hosts argue that a small, vocal minority has disproportionately influenced public discourse, leading to widespread misconceptions and heightened tensions around gender identity and sports.

Notable Quotes:

Joe Getty (33:39): "But overall 79% call it 80 since it's within the plus or minus. 80% of Americans think transgender athletes should not be allowed to compete in women's sports. 80%. It's an 80-20 issue. I mean it's not even flipping close."

Ashley Kinetti (34:02): "And yet, you know, it's funny. Just as an aside, I heard a really interesting podcast with a libertarian type author who's talking about the kind of the dumb side of tribalism and how it makes you do and say things that you probably shouldn't be proud of when you know we're all countrymen and we ought to be cooperating and you know, forming coalitions."

5. Reflections on Celebrity and Public Figures

Timestamp: 42:19 – 43:15

The hosts briefly touch upon the passing of renowned singer Roberta Flack, reflecting on her contributions to music and her legacy. They express sadness over her death and acknowledge her impact on the jazz and soul genres.

Notable Quotes:

Ashley Kinetti (42:41): "What are we doing?"

Joe Getty (43:03): "As I was saying, the nation is reeling from the loss of the great Roberta Flack and it's right that we take a moment to reflect on her life."

6. Motivating Through Personal Stories and Effort

Timestamp: 43:15 – 47:15

Shifting focus to personal development, Ashley Kinetti shares an inspiring story about her friend Brian Campbell, a professional golfer who overcame setbacks to win a PGA Tour event after seven years of perseverance. This narrative serves to highlight the importance of relentless effort and dedication in achieving success.

Joe Getty adds his perspective on encouraging his own children to strive for excellence, emphasizing that talent alone is insufficient without substantial effort. They discuss the misconception that successful individuals are merely born talented, underscoring the critical role of hard work and persistence.

Notable Quotes:

Ashley Kinetti (46:44): "Two quick bits of wisdom. Number one, the thing that takes more effort than anything else is to appear effortless takes a tremendous amount of effort. Secondly, one of the great pianists, I can't remember which one, Rubenstein, one of those guys, somebody once said to him, I would give my life to play piano. I would give my life to play the piano like you do. And he said, I did."

Joe Getty (45:17): "Anywho. Oh, we got to get this joke on. We got a joke from Greg Gutfeld that I know some of our audience will like. And it's not. It's not my sort of joke, but here you go."

7. Light-Hearted Banter and Closing Remarks

Timestamp: 47:15 – End

As the episode nears its conclusion, Ashley Kinetti and Joe Getty engage in light-hearted banter, sharing jokes and playful critiques about media portrayals and public figures. They maintain a balance between serious discussions and humor, providing listeners with both insightful commentary and entertainment.

The episode wraps up with a reflection on the importance of resilience and maintaining a balanced perspective amidst societal challenges.

Notable Quotes:

Joe Getty (47:16): "And most of us, even given the talent by God to be that artist, musician, golfer, whatever, wouldn't put in the time that it takes to ever utilize it."

Ashley Kinetti (48:58): "Music experience of a lifetime? Country superstar Keith Urban will be performing live on the brand new Top Shelf Country Cruise set in sail February 2026."

Conclusion

In "You Can't Order Human Beings Without Onions," Armstrong & Getty navigate through pressing societal issues, including public health concerns, media influence, workplace dynamics, and cultural debates surrounding gender and sports. The hosts blend critical analysis with personal anecdotes and humor, offering listeners a comprehensive and engaging exploration of contemporary topics.

Key Takeaways:

• The severity of the current flu season and its widespread impact.
• Controversial shifts in the AP Stylebook and their implications for journalism.
• The impracticality and potential ramifications of Elon Musk's memo to government employees.
• Overwhelming public opposition to transgender athletes in women's sports.
• The significance of effort and perseverance in achieving personal and professional success.

Notable Quotes:

Joe Getty (03:13): "Wow. I just did a little trip. So I was in airports, I was on planes, I was in Ubers, I was in restaurants, etc. And I don't feel I have a sore throat today and a couple other symptoms I won't mention. Anyway, I googled them and it says unmentionable symptoms."

Ashley Kinetti (07:33): "The AP is as bad as the Southern Poverty Law center or the, you know the the former not NAACP. No that's not it. I was a card carrying member of the ACLU. That's it. Yes. They're awful."

Joe Getty (33:39): "But overall 79% call it 80 since it's within the plus or minus. 80% of Americans think transgender athletes should not be allowed to compete in women's sports. 80%. It's an 80-20 issue. I mean it's not even flipping close."

For those interested in more in-depth discussions and a variety of topics, "Armstrong & Getty On Demand" continues to deliver engaging content that resonates with a broad audience.