Summary of "I’ve Had It" Podcast Episode: "The Stupid Era"

Release Date: March 18, 2025
Hosts: Jennifer Welch and Angie “Pumps” Sullivan
Episode Title: The Stupid Era

Introduction and Opening Remarks (02:58 - 03:11)

After dismissing initial advertisements, Jennifer Welch and Angie Sullivan kick off the episode with their trademark humor. They introduce the theme "The Stupid Era," setting the stage for a candid discussion about various societal frustrations.

Common Pet Peeves: Express Lane Etiquette (03:11 - 04:52)

Angie expresses her annoyance with shoppers who misuse express lanes in grocery stores, undermining the system intended to save time for those with fewer items.

Notable Quote:
Angie (03:56): "They are cheaters, they're frauds. They need to get in the long lane and leave the express lane out of it."

Jennifer shares her preference for self-checkout to avoid such inconveniences, recounting an experience where a checker addressed a shopper's misuse of the express lane positively.

Notable Quote:
Jennifer (04:00): "I've had it with the war on science."

The "Stupid Era": War on Science and Anti-Intellectualism (04:52 - 07:02)

Jennifer delves into her frustration with the declining respect for scientific expertise, dubbing the current period "the stupid era." She criticizes the spread of misinformation, particularly regarding vaccines and environmental issues, and laments the public's susceptibility to unfounded theories propagated online.

Notable Quotes:
Jennifer (04:58): "We are living in the stupid era."
Jennifer (04:58): "The diminishing respect of expertise really bothers me."

Angie echoes these sentiments, highlighting the lack of accountability for those who spread scientific misinformation.

Critique of Public Figures and Bigotry (07:03 - 13:22)

The hosts move on to critique prominent public figures who propagate misinformation and bigotry. Jennifer lambasts Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene for their reckless comments and policies, emphasizing the real-world consequences such as increased measles cases.

Notable Quotes:
Jennifer (05:07): "Dipshit Marjorie Taylor Greene suggested that people throw measles parties to infect children so that they would get immunity."
Jennifer (09:40): "The American public being so stupid that they think if somebody has money... they must be good people."

Angie supports this critique, pointing out the lack of shame among certain groups and the superficial facade they maintain, masking underlying prejudices.

Importance of Women in Leadership (14:04 - 17:29)

Jennifer and Angie discuss the critical role women play in leadership positions. They reference studies showing that men's decisions improve when they seek advice from women, attributing this to women's comprehensive analysis and risk assessment skills.

Notable Quotes:
Angie (14:04): "If there were more women at the top, there'd be a lot less of all these other problems..."
Jennifer (14:28): "Having women on shareholder boards and in positions of power in government is incredibly helpful."

They argue that increased female representation in corporate and governmental roles can mitigate issues like sexual harassment and hostile work environments.

Rising Misogyny in Schools and Online (17:02 - 19:54)

The conversation shifts to the troubling rise of misogyny among youth, both in schools and on online platforms. Jennifer cites studies indicating a significant concern among teachers about boys absorbing toxic views from influencers like Andrew Tate, leading to unsafe environments for girls.

Notable Quotes:
Jennifer (17:27): "Teachers are witnessing a disturbing rise in misogyny in schools."
Jennifer (19:27): "Young boys and young men are getting horrible information online."

They emphasize the importance of parental involvement in monitoring and guiding children's online activities to prevent the internalization of harmful ideologies.

Guest Appearance: Drew Aalo (21:00 - 56:17)

Drew Aalo, host of the "Comment Section" podcast and author of the New York Times bestseller "Loud," joins Jennifer and Angie to discuss her experiences combating bigotry and misogyny online.

Experiences with Online Misogyny and Bigotry

Drew shares her encounters with misogynists and bigots, explaining how she confronts them with assertive and unapologetic responses. She highlights the interconnectedness of various forms of bigotry, tracing them back to white supremacy.

Notable Quotes:
Drew (24:24): "When I approach bigots, I'm mean as fuck. Whatever they did, I double it and give it to the next person."
Drew (25:35): "Most forms of bigotry lead back to white supremacy."

Strategies for Dealing with Bigots

Drew advocates for direct confrontation rather than engaging in debates, emphasizing that some individuals are unwilling to change their views. She believes in standing firm against oppression without compromising her principles.

Notable Quotes:
Drew (34:24): "I'm mean as fuck. ... Whatever they did, I double it and give it to the next person."
Drew (35:38): "That's how I handle it. I'm mean as fuck."

Discussion on White Supremacy and Intersectionality

Drew discusses how systemic structures perpetuate various forms of discrimination, including racism, homophobia, and transphobia. She stresses the importance of dismantling these structures by addressing white supremacy at its core.

Notable Quotes:
Drew (25:35): "All forms of bigotry lead back to white supremacy."
Drew (33:16): "Please don't stop with me is what I always tell people."

Call to Action: Advocacy and Allyship (52:10 - 57:06)

Jennifer and Angie emphasize the necessity of active allyship and advocacy, especially from marginalized groups and their allies. They encourage listeners to speak out against oppression, support each other, and promote inclusive values.

Notable Quotes:
Jennifer (54:13): "Women like yourselves are extremely essential in times like this."
Angie (58:10): "We gotta be loud, especially in Trump's America."

Drew underscores the impact of collective efforts in fighting systemic injustices, highlighting the importance of diverse voices in leadership and activism.

Closing Remarks (57:06 - 59:07)

The episode concludes with heartfelt acknowledgments of each other's efforts in combating bigotry. The hosts and Drew reiterate the importance of solidarity, education, and persistent advocacy in overcoming the challenges of "The Stupid Era."

Notable Quotes:
Jennifer (56:44): "You're so close. You're so close. Oh, my God, you're so close."
Angie (58:49): "What the patriotism that this country needs right there."

This episode of "I’ve Had It" offers a critical examination of societal issues underpinning what the hosts describe as "The Stupid Era." Through a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and incisive commentary, Jennifer Welch, Angie Sullivan, and guest Drew Aalo dissect the erosion of scientific respect, the rise of bigotry, and the essential role of women and allies in leadership positions. The conversation underscores the urgent need for collective action, informed advocacy, and unwavering support for marginalized communities to navigate and overcome the pervasive challenges of the current socio-political landscape.