Podcast Summary: "Get Ostrich or Die Trying" – Lovett or Leave It
Host: Jon Lovett
Guest: Senator Adam Schiff
Release Date: May 31, 2025

Introduction

In the "Get Ostrich or Die Trying" episode of Lovett or Leave It, Jon Lovett delves deep into the tumultuous political landscape shaped by former President Donald Trump’s actions and the Democratic response. The episode features a compelling interview with Senator Adam Schiff, alongside segments with co-hosts Joe Firestone, Josh Sharp, and Devin Walker, who bring humor and sharp commentary to current events.

Political Analysis

Trump’s Military Parade and Tariff Policies [03:00 - 07:30]

Jon Lovett kicks off the episode by dissecting Trump’s proposed military parade celebrating his birthday, which the Army clarifies is actually commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Continental Army. Jon humorously notes the extravagant costs and logistics, highlighting the misuse of military resources:

“...parade is not a Trump birthday celebration, however, but it is in fact a commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the Continental Army.” ([04:00])

Lovett critiques Trump's tariff strategies, referencing a CNBC reporter’s coinage of the term "taco trade," mocking Trump's inconsistent tariff threats:

“I kick out.” ([03:47])

He further underscores the ineffectiveness of Trump's tariffs, which were blocked by judges, leading to hefty losses:

“...blocked Trump from imposing worldwide and retaliatory tariffs using emergency powers.” ([07:30])

Immigration and Deportation Issues [07:30 - 10:22]

The discussion shifts to immigration, focusing on the harrowing case of Carol Hui, a Missouri mother facing deportation to Hong Kong despite being a U.S. citizen's parent:

“...no one voted to deport moms. We were all under the impression we were just getting rid of the gangs...” ([05:30])

Jon also highlights the Trump administration’s crackdown on wrongful deportations, emphasizing the emotional and social repercussions:

“He is going to be so disappointed in the target pride collection when he gets back.” ([06:00])

RFK Jr. and Public Health Claims [09:04 - 10:59]

RFK Jr. emerges as a controversial figure, with Jon critiquing his removal of the COVID vaccine from the CDC’s recommended schedule and his claims against vaccines:

“It's all part of Trump's campaign promise to revitalize domestic manufacturing of tiny coffins.” ([09:04])

Jon sarcastically remarks on the fabricated sources within RFK Jr.’s reports, highlighting their lack of credibility:

“...all these sources just made up.” ([10:59])

Elon Musk's Departure and J.K. Rowling’s Activism [12:23 - 14:00]

The episode covers Elon Musk’s exit from the Trump administration, with Lovett mocking his departure:

“Don't cry because it's over, barf because it happened.” ([13:00])

J.K. Rowling’s controversial stance on transgender women’s rights in sports is also discussed, with Lovett criticizing her comments and actions:

“She told reporters in Harry Potter, the Goblins are Jews. Unrelated why she would just bring that up out of nowhere.” ([14:00])

Law Firms Cancelling Contracts with Harvard [14:00 - 16:00]

Jon addresses the Trump administration’s directive to cancel federal contracts with Harvard, critiquing the administration's hostility towards educational institutions:

“Trump has a backup plan for all of these law firms. Oh no, it's a swan.” ([12:23])

He underscores the tension between government and academia, emphasizing the importance of institutional resistance.

Technological and Environmental Concerns [16:00 - 21:00]

The conversation shifts to environmental issues, highlighting cross-breeding destructive termite species in South Florida and the rise of driverless trucks in Texas:

“Scientists have reported that two of the world's most destructive, invasive kinds of termites have started cross breeding in South Florida...” ([16:00])

Jon humorously critiques the lack of regulation in driverless technology:

“They just arrive and you're like, where did these bones come from?” ([21:00])

Additionally, the European Space Agency's symbolic message to space and Jeff Bezos’s announcement to launch women into space are discussed with Lovett’s signature humor:

“Not to be outdone, Jeff Bezos announced that Blue Origin will launch another 50 or 60 women into space...” ([21:00])

Interview with Senator Adam Schiff [19:07 - 36:10]

Topic: Trump’s Autocratic Tendencies and Democratic Resistance

Key Discussions:

1. Military Parade as Autocratic Display [25:33 - 27:34] Senator Schiff expresses horror over Trump’s military parade, comparing it to displays by despots like Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin:

   “This is a celebration of the President and his power, and that makes it fundamentally different.” ([25:33])

2. Unrestrained Executive Power [27:34 - 29:35] The conversation delves into Trump’s disregard for separation of powers, with Schiff highlighting alarming examples like unilateral decisions on state flag protocols:

   “I remember during the first impeachment...he is not who we are.” ([31:59])

3. Capitulation vs. Resistance [34:15 - 36:10] Schiff discusses the importance of institutions like Harvard and law firms standing up against Trump’s influence, emphasizing that capitulation only empowers him further:

   “Our press has to be stronger, tougher than that. Our companies can't capitulate.” ([36:10])

Comedic Segments and Audience Interaction [36:10 - 85:18]

The co-hosts—Joe Firestone, Josh Sharp, and Devin Walker—bring levity to the episode with humorous takes on various topics:

1. Roasting Life’s Mysteries [46:23 - 76:09]

   • "Life in the Faust Lane" Segment: Co-hosts present fictional "deals with the devil," such as vegan cheese that makes you hear a baby crying or Los Angeles arc lights only playing Marvel movies.

   “Vegan cheese finally tastes like cheese, but every time you eat it, you hear a baby crying.” ([39:40])

2. Entertainment and Pop Culture [47:00 - 70:13]

   • Tom Cruise's Stunts: Laughing over Cruise’s extreme promotional activities for his movies.

   “He does not want to say any more about that.” ([54:35])

3. Audience Roasting [73:47 - 85:18]

   • "Love it or Leave Grill Marks": Live audience members share stories to be humorously roasted by the hosts, fostering interactive and entertaining dialogue.

   “If your wife won't let you touch her, why do you think a stranger would be interested?” ([79:35])

Throughout these segments, the hosts employ sharp wit and playful banter, keeping the tone engaging and entertaining.

Conclusion and Upcoming Events [85:18 - 88:06]

Jon Lovett wraps up the episode by promoting upcoming events, including a Pride show in Los Angeles featuring notable guests like Joel Kim, Booster Clea Duvall, and Sabrina Wu. He encourages listeners to attend and participate in community fundraisers supporting individuals facing persecution in El Salvador.

“We'll be doing a rally during the day, we'll be doing the event at night. So if you're in D.C. or around D.C. come to the show.” ([73:32])

Notable Quotes

• Jon Lovett on Trump’s Tariffs:
  “I kick out.” ([03:47])

• Adam Schiff on Trump’s Military Parade:
  “This is a celebration of the President and his power, and that makes it fundamentally different.” ([25:33])

• Jon Lovett on Capitol Law Firms:
  “Our press has to be stronger, tougher than that. Our companies can't capitulate.” ([36:10])

• Comedy Segment on Vegan Cheese:
  “Vegan cheese finally tastes like cheese, but every time you eat it, you hear a baby crying.” ([39:40])

Key Takeaways

• Democratic Resistance: The episode underscores the importance of institutional resistance against Trump’s overreach, highlighting successes and ongoing challenges.

• Political Accountability: Emphasizes holding public figures and corporations accountable to preserve democratic integrity.

• Humor as a Coping Mechanism: The comedic segments provide a balanced approach to discussing heavy political topics, making the content accessible and engaging.

• Community Engagement: Promotion of upcoming events and fundraisers illustrates the podcast’s commitment to actionable support and community involvement.

This episode of Lovett or Leave It masterfully blends political analysis with humor, providing listeners with insightful commentary on pressing issues while keeping the atmosphere light and entertaining. Whether you're a political junkie or just seeking some laughs, "Get Ostrich or Die Trying" offers a comprehensive and enjoyable listening experience.