Ruthless Podcast: Episode Summary Title: Desperate Times For Democrats + Trump Plays Hardball With Putin
Hosts: Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, John Ashbrook
Release Date: August 15, 2025

1. Opening Remarks and Setting the Tone

The episode kicks off with Michael Duncan expressing frustration with liberal beliefs, emphasizing a return to reality regarding societal issues. He states, “Welcome back to the real world... it does not happen” (00:00). John Ashbrook reinforces this sentiment, critiquing the liberal media's portrayal of President Trump's interactions with Vladimir Putin.

2. Chevron Advertisement Segment

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3. Fun Time Friday: Nostalgia and College Memories

Josh Holmes introduces the segment “Fun Time Friday,” where the hosts reminisce about their college days, specifically discussing the creation of Jungle Juice—an alcoholic concoction popular among students. John Ashbrook shares humorous anecdotes about mixing large quantities of alcohol, likening himself to Walter White (02:58).

4. Crime and Public Perception in Washington D.C.

The hosts delve into recent developments in Washington D.C., highlighting federal crackdowns on crime. Josh Holmes references previous episodes that discussed the fallout over D.C. federalization and new CNN statistics indicating a decrease in American drinking habits (04:12).

Michael Duncan underscores the shift in public opinion, stating, “you can punch cops and get away with it... that does not happen” (05:22). The conversation criticizes liberal approaches to law enforcement and public safety, arguing that Democrats have failed to effectively manage crime, leading to a resurgence of issues in the capital.

5. Highlighting Democratic Failures: Focus on Chuck Schumer

The discussion shifts to Democratic leaders, particularly Chuck Schumer. John Ashbrook criticizes Schumer’s effectiveness, mocking his performance and suggesting his prolonged tenure has rendered him ineffective: “He's like a speed bag... You could walk with him all day” (16:43).

Michael Duncan adds, “I love seeing criminals get the shit kicked out of [the cop in the sandwich incident]... That's what I support,” (28:12) reinforcing their stance on strong law enforcement.

6. Trump-Putin Summit: Analyzing Foreign Policy

Josh Holmes provides an in-depth analysis of the anticipated meeting between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. He outlines the historical context, noting, “Putin invaded Crimea when Barack Obama was president... invaded the rest of Ukraine when Joe Biden was president” (43:02). The hosts praise Trump’s approach to foreign policy, highlighting his willingness to engage directly with adversaries to broker peace.

Comfortably Smug emphasizes Trump’s credibility, stating, “He is competent and capable of following through on his threats” (41:04). The discussion contrasts Trump’s direct methods with what they perceive as the ineffective and overly bureaucratic approaches of Democratic leaders like John Kerry and Samantha Power.

7. Democratic Fantasy Football: A Satirical Take

In a humorous segment, the hosts engage in a "Democrat Fantasy Draft," assigning football positions to various Democratic politicians. For example:

• Josh Holmes drafts Jasmine Crock, praising her on-field abilities while recommending dropping Chuck Schumer, whom he describes as “shifty” and “tired” (62:35).
• John Ashbrook selects Pete Buttigieg, lauding his “competence” and “scat back” skills (60:44).
• Michael Duncan opts for Zoran Mumdani and drops Beto O’Rourke, criticizing his performance in Texas showdowns (61:48).

This segment serves as a satirical critique of Democratic leadership, portraying them as ineffective players in the political arena.

8. Mutant Rabbits: A Bizarre News Segment

The hosts discuss a sensational news story reported by the New York Post about mutant rabbits in Fort Collins, Colorado. These rabbits allegedly exhibit “black tentacles” growing from their heads due to a rare virus (53:56). The conversation blends humor and skepticism, with Michael Duncan sarcastically suggesting, “You see this? This is real” (54:45).

Comfortably Smug and John Ashbrook mock the absurdity of the situation, suggesting exaggerated measures like shooting the affected rabbits. The segment highlights the hosts' penchant for blending humor with current events, regardless of their credibility.

9. F15 Ejection Incident: Military Misadventures

An incident involving a tourist accidentally ejecting from an F15D Eagle is discussed. Josh Holmes describes how the tourist, named Sean Charles Dunn, mistakenly used the ejection handle on the tarmac, resulting in his unplanned exit before the plane took off (65:32). The hosts ridicule the mishap, suggesting the tourist was irresponsible and highlighting the dangers of such actions.

Michael Duncan humorously advises, “If you see a dude with horns, shoot it,” (55:46), underscoring their disdain for seemingly foolish behavior.

10. Closing Remarks: Emphasizing American Strength

In their concluding remarks, the hosts reaffirm their support for President Trump's policies, particularly his hardline stance against Vladimir Putin. They criticize the Democratic leadership for perceived weaknesses and incompetence, asserting that Trump’s strength and competence are what America needs.

Josh Holmes summarizes, “There is nobody that can explain the Trump Doctrine and call AOC fat in the same episode” (69:17), encapsulating the episode's blend of political critique and humor.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Michael Duncan (00:00): “Welcome back to the real world... it does not happen.”
• John Ashbrook (00:14): “Let me preview exactly what the liberal media is gonna say... It doesn't happen.”
• John Ashbrook (28:14): “I think we need to start making examples which...”
• Josh Holmes (43:02): “Putin invaded Crimea when Barack Obama was president... invaded the rest of Ukraine when Joe Biden was president.”
• Comfortably Smug (41:41): “He's a deal maker. Yes, he wants things to get done.”
• Michael Duncan (55:46): “If you see a dude with horns, shoot it.”

Conclusion

This episode of the Ruthless Podcast combines political analysis with humor and satire, primarily focusing on the perceived failures of the Democratic Party and lauding President Trump’s approach to foreign policy. The hosts use a mix of serious commentary and light-hearted segments to engage listeners, reinforcing their conservative viewpoints while entertaining with anecdotes and humorous takes on current events.

Note: Timestamps correspond to key moments in the episode for reference.