The Gist: "Not Even Mad" with Zee Cohen-Sanchez and Jesse Adams

Release Date: July 24, 2025
Host: Mike Pesca, Peach Fish Productions

Introduction

Mike Pesca kicks off the episode by reminiscing about Hulkamania, drawing parallels between the wrestling phenomenon and current political dynamics. He introduces the theme of the day, "Not Even Mad," setting the stage for a deep dive into the intersections of politics, media, and public perception.

Guests Introduction

• Zee Cohen-Sanchez

  • Role: Executive Director of National Ground Game and Founder of the UN Fuck America Tour.
  • Background: Former Bernie Sanders staffer turned progressive activist committed to effective communication for Democratic victories.

• Jesse Adams

  • Role: Writer for the Washington Examiner and author on Substack as the "Ivy Exile."
  • Background: Former liberal/progressive thinker who shifted towards conservative viewpoints, especially on immigration.

Main Discussions

1. Trump’s Handling of the Epstein Files

Mike Pesca presents recent polling data indicating a significant disapproval of Trump's handling of the Epstein situation:

• Poll Results:
  • 63% of Americans disapprove
  • 20% are undecided
  • 70% of registered voters approve of the administration's handling
  • Among Republicans: 40% approve, 36% disapprove

Jesse Adams comments on Trump's ability to maintain support despite controversies:

"Trump said it himself that he can go out into the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody and they'd still vote for him." (17:04)

Zee Cohen-Sanchez discusses the persistence of conspiracy theories among Trump supporters:

"...there are a lot of people talking to their loved ones on the iPhones, seeing how much better their life would be if they could somehow get here." (17:53)

2. Impact on Trump’s Base

The conversation delves into whether the Epstein scandal is weakening Trump's support:

• Jesse Adams believes the scandal is a critical juncture but not sufficient to dismantle Trump's base entirely.
• Zee Cohen-Sanchez highlights the enduring loyalty of low-information voters, comparing it to the unwavering support seen in past political movements.

Notable Quote:

"There is no way to ever mend it, not end it." — Mike Pesca (47:00)

3. Immigration Policies and Public Perception

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Trump's immigration policies and their reception:

• Jesse Adams predicts limited success in deportation efforts and emphasizes the importance of tangible results for voter perception.
• Zee Cohen-Sanchez analyzes the dual messaging strategy of appearing tough on immigration while avoiding economic repercussions, particularly in the poultry industry.

Key Insight:

"Trump has to think about if the price of chicken nuggets goes up, how much core support is he going to lose." — Zee Cohen-Sanchez (28:37)

4. Defunding Public Broadcasting (PBS and NPR)

The guests critique the recent defunding initiatives targeting public broadcasters:

• Zee Cohen-Sanchez shares her experience working for PBS under Bill Moyers and her disillusionment with perceived biases during the Obama era.
• Jesse Adams argues that the defunding is a self-inflicted wound for NPR, noting a decline in credibility among former listeners.

Notable Quote:

"NPR just destroyed its own credibility and made itself irrelevant to so many of its former fans." — Zee Cohen-Sanchez (51:26)

Goat Grinders

A lighter segment where guests share pet peeves:

• Jesse Adams: Frustrated with Charlie Kirk's restriction of Democrats from Turning Point USA events, highlighting issues around the claimed "free marketplace of ideas."

  "There is a list that exists that that is what I've been told." (52:50)

• Zee Cohen-Sanchez: Dislikes the use of the term "unhoused," advocating for more empathetic language like "homeless."

• Mike Pesca: Shares a personal anecdote about a sawdust explosion, emphasizing the importance of following safety protocols.

Conclusion

Mike Pesca wraps up the episode by acknowledging the contributions of guests Zee Cohen-Sanchez and Jesse Adams. He emphasizes the ongoing political divisions and the challenges in bridging gaps within American society. The episode concludes with a reminder of upcoming segments and producer acknowledgments.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mike Pesca: "Everybody knows that Hulkamania is the strongest force in this universe." (00:53)
• Zee Cohen-Sanchez: "We are not unfucked." (07:53)
• Jesse Adams: "You gotta train. Say your prayers. Eat your vitamins too." (04:07)

This episode of The Gist offers an insightful exploration of current political climates, media credibility, and the intricate relationship between public perception and policy implementation. Through candid discussions and expert opinions, Pesca, Cohen-Sanchez, and Adams unravel the complexities shaping today's America.