Last Podcast on the Left Episode: Side Stories: Squirrel Stories
Hosts: Andrew Zabrowski and Ed Larson
Podcast Description: The Last Podcast on the Left delves into the darkest corners of reality and imagination, exploring everything from demons and serial killers to cults and supernatural phenomena.
Introduction and Political Banter
The episode kicks off with Andrew and Ed engaging in their trademark humorous banter, mocking political figures and the tumultuous atmosphere surrounding election days. They specifically target Jill Stein and the Green Party with sarcastic remarks, setting a lighthearted yet cynical tone for the episode.
Andrew Zabrowski [00:02]: "There's no place to escape to."
Ed Larson [00:08]: "This is the last podcast on the Left side Stories."
Epstein Tapes and Political Conspiracies
The hosts delve into recent revelations about Jeffrey Epstein, focusing on newly surfaced tapes that suggest deeper connections between Epstein and former President Donald Trump. Andrew expresses skepticism about the validity of Epstein's claims, particularly regarding his relationship with Trump, while Ed humorously suggests musical collaborations to amplify the scandal.
Andrew Zabrowski [02:44]: "I have spent the several last days researching the newly revealed or partially revealed Epstein tapes."
Ed Larson [02:46]: "That should be our new national anthem."
Correction on Vincent Price's Sexuality
In a brief interlude, Andrew and Ed correct a previous misconception about the late actor Vincent Price's sexuality. They acknowledge that Vincent Price was indeed bisexual and highlight his contributions to LGBTQ+ advocacy, particularly during the HIV/AIDS crisis.
Andrew Zabrowski [09:45]: "Vincent Price is bisexual."
Ed Larson [09:46]: "He was."
Peanut the Squirrel: A Social Media Tragedy
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the tragic story of Peanut the Squirrel, a beloved social media star with nearly 800,000 Instagram followers. Peanut was euthanized after authorities seized him from his owner, Mark Longo, amid allegations that intertwine animal rescue with the owner's involvement in an OnlyFans account. The hosts discuss the complexities surrounding animal sanctuaries, social media fame, and potential misconduct.
Ed Larson [22:14]: "Social media star Peanut the Squirrel has been euthanized after being seized from a New York home."
Andrew Zabrowski [22:40]: "What did Peanut the Squirrel know?"
They further explore public reactions, including the introduction of "Peanuts Law," a humane animal protection act aimed at preventing the immediate euthanasia of sanctuary animals without a waiting period.
Andrew Zabrowski [30:00]: "So the cops went to like at first people, they're saying that they went in..."
Sovereign Citizens and Legal Anarchy
Andrew and Ed shift focus to the sovereign citizen movement, particularly highlighting a disturbing case in the UK involving the Federal Postal Court. This group, led by Mark Christopher, attempted to kidnap and kill Senior Coroner Lincoln Brooks under baseless accusations of human trafficking. The hosts criticize the ideology behind sovereign citizenships, emphasizing the dangers of such extremist beliefs.
Andrew Zabrowski [38:08]: "I love, you know me, you love your sovereigns... until they get really dangerous."
Ed Larson [44:25]: "Mark Christopher... is taking it upon himself."
Listener UFO Sighting Story
Towards the end of the episode, a listener recounts a personal UFO sighting from March 1998 in Lake Placid, Florida. The story mirrors the famous Phoenix Lights incident, describing a formation of bright lights moving silently across the sky. The hosts discuss the reliability of such memories and the enduring fascination with UFO phenomena.
Andrew Zabrowski [54:50]: "I have a story for the show about a UFO sighting..."
Ed Larson [58:14]: "But what did they look like?"
Conclusion
Andrew and Ed wrap up the episode by reinforcing the importance of critical thinking and skepticism, especially in an era rife with misinformation and conspiracy theories. They encourage listeners to remain vigilant and question the validity of sensational claims.
Andrew Zabrowski [49:34]: "You cannot 110% give in to any single ID."
Notable Quotes:
- Andrew Zabrowski [02:44]: "I have spent the several last days researching the newly revealed or partially revealed Epstein tapes."
- Ed Larson [09:46]: "He was [bisexual]."
- Ed Larson [22:14]: "Social media star Peanut the Squirrel has been euthanized after being seized from a New York home."
- Andrew Zabrowski [38:08]: "I love, you know me, you love your sovereigns... until they get really dangerous."
- Andrew Zabrowski [54:50]: "I have a story for the show about a UFO sighting..."
This episode of Last Podcast on the Left traverses a diverse array of topics, from political satire and high-profile conspiracies to the emotional narrative of a social media animal star and the unsettling rise of extremist movements. Through a blend of humor and serious analysis, Andrew and Ed provide listeners with both entertainment and food for thought, urging discernment in the face of complex societal issues.