Summary of "Something Wrong With The Podcast" Episode #7

Podcast Information:

• Title: Something Wrong With The Podcast
• Host: Julian Delgado
• Description: A podcast where your intrusive thoughts are said out loud. Every week, Julian discusses “something wrong with the culture” while also being your hilarious unlicensed therapist. Listeners can participate by calling 877-557-SWWP to leave a voicemail and receive advice.
• Episode: SWWP #7 - DOGE, Political Anxiety, Gooner Goon
• Release Date: March 4, 2025

Introduction

In the seventh episode of "Something Wrong With The Podcast," host Julian Delgado navigates through a myriad of topics ranging from political anxieties and social issues to personal struggles shared by listeners. Balancing sharp cultural critiques with humorous therapeutic advice, Julian offers a thought-provoking and engaging conversation for his audience.

Veteran Affairs Funding Cuts and DOGE Implications

Julian opens the episode by addressing a significant issue affecting the Veteran Affairs Department. He discusses how DOGE (a government entity) has implemented major budget cuts, resulting in the loss of approximately 3,000 jobs. This downturn has directly impacted a veteran-owned business founded by a friend of Julian's, leading to its closure despite celebrating its 10th anniversary. Julian emphasizes the broader implications of these cuts on veterans' access to medical care and job services.

• Notable Quote:
  "The Veterans affairs, if you're not aware, political sphere, DOGE is doing a lot of major cuts to save budget, but a lot of those cuts are happening at the expense of people that are doing contract work." [02:45]

Epstein Flight Logs and Political Connections

Julian delves into the controversial topic of Jeffrey Epstein's private jet flight logs, highlighting the presence of notable figures such as Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, Naomi Campbell, Kevin Spacey, and Chris Tucker. He speculates on the nature of these associations, suggesting that Epstein may have used his connections for nefarious purposes, including potential blackmail.

Julian expresses skepticism about the impact of releasing these flight logs, comparing them to the leaked videos of Diddy that significantly altered public perception. He emphasizes the need for transparency but acknowledges the complexities within the private jet community, where appearances on flight logs may not always indicate wrongdoing.

• Notable Quote:
  "I think Epstein, knowing his clientele, knowing the people that he... wanted to record them, wanted to have dirt on them to basically for blackmail purposes." [15:30]

Trump's Political Maneuvers and Relationships

The conversation shifts to Donald Trump's interactions with international figures, particularly his strained relationship with Ukrainian President Zelensky. Julian critiques Trump's behavior during their meetings, describing them as uncomfortable and inefficient, and speculates on the potential implications for U.S. foreign policy.

He also touches upon the association between Trump and the Tate brothers—Andrew and Tristan—who are currently facing legal troubles in Romania. Julian questions the motives behind Trump's possible meetings with them, suggesting that it reflects a concerning trend in political alliances.

• Notable Quote:
  "It sounds like he's living a very, very streamy, like Aiden Ross idealistic world right now, if that makes sense...this is probably very bad for us." [25:15]

Democrats' Identity Crisis and Antonio Delgado's Resignation

Julian transitions to discuss the Democratic Party's struggle to redefine its identity amidst shifting voter demographics. He highlights that the working-class, black, and Hispanic voters are increasingly leaning towards Trump, posing challenges for the Democrats in maintaining their traditional support base.

A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to Julian's brother, Antonio Delgado, the Lieutenant Governor of New York, who has recently announced he will not seek re-election. Julian expresses interest in Antonio's future plans and the potential impact his resignation may have on local politics.

• Notable Quote:
  "The Democrats are just as embarrassing in other ways. They need... a new identity, and they needed it yesterday because it's not Kamala for the next election cycle." [28:50]

Entertainment Segment: Drake's Cancellations and Legal Settlements

Shifting gears to entertainment news, Julian covers Drake's recent cancellation of his remaining tour dates in Australia and New Zealand. He analyzes the logistical and financial ramifications of such cancellations, questioning the scheduling decisions behind the tour and the potential loss for both Drake and his fans.

Additionally, Julian touches upon Drake's legal settlement with iHeartRadio over a dispute involving Kendrick Lamar's diss track "Not Like Us." He speculates on the broader implications of these legal battles for Drake's career and public image.

• Notable Quote:
  "No matter how many of these Drake wins, no matter how many filings he wins or loses... you lost the beef. And you can, you know, you can bat a thousand with these court cases. It doesn't matter." [32:10]

Music Appreciation: Jazz and Modern Rap

Julian shares his personal music interests, highlighting his current fascination with jazz, specifically Les McCann's 1969 album "Much Less." He also praises Larry June's "2 Chains album, Life is Beautiful," commending its lyrical prowess and relatable themes. This segment offers listeners a glimpse into Julian's eclectic taste and the therapeutic role music plays in his life.

Television Spotlight: Apple TV's "Severance"

In his television news segment, Julian enthusiastically reviews the Apple TV show "Severance." He lauds the show's innovative concept of living dual lives through a surgical procedure that bifurcates memory, allowing characters to separate their work and personal selves. Julian particularly applauds director Jessica Lee Gange for her masterful handling of cinematography and set design, noting the absence of CGI in certain pivotal scenes.

• Notable Quote:
  "It's very rare these days to have a show that starts with a boom, live up to the hype, or it doesn't die down, or the content doesn't get diluted." [34:20]

Listener Voicemails: Navigating Intrusive Thoughts and Relationship Advice

Voicemail 1: Coping with Job Loss and Compulsive Behavior

A listener in his late 20s, recently married and unemployed, reaches out for help managing intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, specifically excessive masturbation ("gooning"). Julian offers a blend of humor and practical advice, encouraging the caller to stay active, channel his energy into job hunting, and reserve intimate activities for his marriage.

• Caller Quote:
  "I'm in my late 20s here, about to turn 30, and I recently got married... but I also recently lost my job." [30:14]

• Julian's Response:
  "Idle hands are the devil's workshop... keep those idle hands away from your pecker. Put those hands over here and get to type it. Hit that keyboard, go to work, pick up a book, read." [31:20]

Voicemail 2: Relationship Manipulation Concerns

Another caller seeks advice on deceitfully gaining a girl's affection, asking, "How can I gaslight her into liking me? How can I trick her into being into me?" Julian takes a critical stance against such manipulative tactics, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections and respectful behavior.

• Caller Quote:
  "There's this girl that I just really fuck with and like, I asked her out way back and she... I don't think she's into it." [35:51]

• Julian's Response:
  "Don't get too creepy and obsessive. Sometimes when a girl knows the energy is that you really want them, they are less inclined to want you." [35:58]

Closing Remarks

Julian wraps up the episode by teasing upcoming content and expressing his commitment to continuing insightful and entertaining discussions despite a busy schedule, including an impending trip to Austin, Texas. He encourages listeners to engage with the podcast through donations and topic suggestions, fostering a sense of community and participation.

• Notable Quote:
  "If you just continue to replay this, you will never want a goon again. That could be your fix." [31:50]

Final Thoughts Episode #7 of "Something Wrong With The Podcast" offers a comprehensive exploration of pressing political issues, high-profile scandals, and personal struggles, all delivered with Julian Delgado's signature blend of humor and candidness. Whether dissecting the complexities of governmental budget cuts or providing unconventional therapeutic advice, Julian ensures that listeners are both informed and entertained throughout the episode.