Ruthless Podcast Episode Summary

Episode Title: 🚨 BIG NEWS from the Ruthless Variety Progrum!
Release Date: July 15, 2025
Hosts: Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook
Podcast Description: A variety program where Smug, Holmes, Duncan, and Ashbrook elevate next-generation conservative talk with a blend of insightful analysis and wry humor, tackling the day's news with no holds barred.

1. Major Partnership Announcement with Fox News

The episode kicks off with Michael Duncan breaking the exhilarating news that Fox News has entered into a licensing agreement with Ruthless Podcast. This significant collaboration marks a pivotal expansion for the podcast, integrating it into Fox News' expansive media landscape.

• Suzanne Scott, CEO of Fox News Media, highlighted the synergy of the deal:

  "The Ruthless deal is a natural extension of our powerhouse brand as audiences reshape how they consume quality content." ([00:00])

• Porter Berry, President and Editor-in-Chief of Fox News Digital and New Media, emphasized the alignment with the creator economy:

  "As the creator economy continues to evolve, a spirit that Ruthless has championed from the start allows us to expand our reach." ([00:00])

2. Hosts Celebrate the Milestone

The team expresses immense excitement and gratitude over the partnership, reflecting on their journey and the support from their dedicated audience.

• Michael Duncan shares his overwhelming joy:

  "Oh, man. Dude. Oh, what a dream come true, fellas." ([01:24])

• Josh Holmes humorously compares the moment to being on set with a renowned journalist:

  "I thought I was on set with Tom Brokaw there." ([01:24])

• John Ashbrook acknowledges the listeners' role in reaching this milestone:

  "For our day one listeners, thank you. Your loyalty got us here." ([02:10])

3. Commending Fox News’ Industry Leadership

The hosts delve into the reasons behind choosing Fox News as their partner, lauding the network's dominance and commitment to quality content.

• Comfortably Smug recounts a personal interaction with Fox Network legends, underscoring the cultural fit:

  "It's just like, it's just an incredible, incredible day." ([06:36])

• Michael Duncan praises Fox News as the "gold standard for conservatives" and credits their strategic efforts for surpassing other cable networks:

  "Fox News is the gold standard for conservatives. They are now the number one channel on television, beating ABC, CBS, NBC." ([04:25])

• John Ashbrook enthusiastically adds:

  "Crushing them." ([04:29])

4. Reflecting on the Growth of Ruthless Podcast

The conversation shifts to the podcast's evolution from humble beginnings to a sought-after platform for political discourse.

• Michael Duncan reflects on the podcast's trajectory:

  "We started with something less than a professional product four years ago and have evolved significantly." ([01:33])

• Josh Holmes highlights Fox's genuine interest in their audience, which set Fox apart from other potential partners:

  "They cared about our audience and wanted to learn about our audience." ([03:04])

5. Emphasizing Authenticity and Connection

The hosts stress the importance of authenticity in their content, differentiating Ruthless from other political podcasts that rely on scripted talking points.

• Michael Duncan shares insights into their interviewing style:

  "We ask questions about their personality, not just their stances on issues. This fosters trust and elicits genuine responses." ([09:32])

• Josh Holmes commends Fox News for allowing them to maintain their authentic voice:

  "When we were asked about branding or changes, Fox told us to change nothing and do more of what audiences love." ([05:46])

6. Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Continued Growth

Riding the wave of this major partnership, the hosts discuss the exciting prospects for future content and expansion.

• John Ashbrook announces an increase in episode frequency and more high-profile interviews:

  "You get more episodes every week, more interviews with top players, and more exciting content all over the place." ([02:10])

• Michael Duncan expresses confidence in their path forward:

  "From moment one, there has never been a day where it's not what you see is what you get. We're excited about where it goes from here." ([09:32])

• Comfortably Smug proclaims their status in the podcasting world:

  "One of the reasons why we are the hottest, most influential podcast in the entire world." ([08:35])

7. Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments

The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks to their supporters and reaffirmation of their commitment to delivering quality content.

• Josh Holmes extends gratitude to loyal listeners and acknowledges critics:

  "Thank you to the haters, everyone who doubted us. As an agony of defeat guy, proving people wrong is gratifying." ([08:42])

• John Ashbrook encourages listeners to engage with the podcast:

  "Remember to like and subscribe on YouTube if you haven't yet. Until next time, minions, keep the faith, subscribe, hold the line and own the libs." ([10:22])

• Final Sign-Off:

  "We'll see you Thursday. Stay ruthless." ([10:22])

Key Takeaways:

• Strategic Partnership: Ruthless Podcast's collaboration with Fox News signifies a major milestone, expanding their reach and integrating into a leading media network.

• Audience-Centric Growth: The hosts emphasize that their success is driven by a loyal and engaged audience, whose support has been instrumental in their growth.

• Commitment to Authenticity: Ruthless distinguishes itself by prioritizing genuine conversations and authentic interactions over scripted content, fostering deeper connections with listeners.

• Future Expansion: With Fox News' backing, the podcast is poised to deliver more frequent episodes, high-profile interviews, and diverse content, continuing its trajectory as a premier conservative talk show.

This episode serves as both a celebration of Ruthless Podcast's achievements and a commitment to future excellence, all while maintaining the authentic and irreverent tone that has endeared them to their audience.