The Situation & The Weekend with Michael Brown

Avsnitt

• 
  9-19-26 The Weekend Hour 1: The Price Was Always There 19.09.2026 37min

  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-19-26 The Weekend Hour 2: Forever is a long time 19.09.2026 37min

  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-19-26 The Weekend Hour 3: The Risk Free  19.09.2026 37min

  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-18-26 - 9am - FINALLY CLEANED UP and School Spending 18.09.2026 28min

  In a scathing critique of Colorado's education system, the speaker takes aim at the state's record-breaking spending on schools, revealing a puzzling paradox: despite a 59% increase in per-student spending over seven years, enrollment has been declining for six years in a row. This raises questions about where the money is going and whether it's actually benefiting students.The speaker delves into the numbers, pointing out that while Colorado's spending is now in the middle of the pack nationally, the state's teacher salaries are still relatively low, and the pension system is eating up a significant portion of the budget. Meanwhile, the state's math scores have improved, but reading scores have flatlined. The speaker argues that the current system is not transparent enough, with districts often hiding behind a wall of spreadsheets to justify their spending.The speaker also critiques the state's bond measures, pointing out that districts often promise to fix buildings but quietly steer the money to the schools that are already thriving. This lack of transparency and accountability is a major issue, as districts are not required to report how much of their spending actually goes into the classroom.If you're concerned about the state of education in Colorado, this episode is a must-listen. The speaker offers a clear and compelling argument for why we need to rethink our approach to education funding and transparency. Join us as we explore the complexities of Colorado's education system and what it means for our kids.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-18-26 - 10am - Denver's Decline & Questionable Victor Marx 18.09.2026 31min

  In a shocking turn of events, the tallest building in Colorado, Republic Plaza, has been taken over by a court-appointed receiver due to the owner, Brookfield, failing to pay the mortgage. But what does this say about the state of downtown Denver? The speaker takes us on a journey to explore the reasons behind the decline of the city's core, from the 16th Street Mall to the current state of affairs.The conversation delves into the impact of the pandemic on office workers and the subsequent decline of retail businesses in the area. The speaker argues that while COVID-19 was a contributing factor, it's not the sole reason for the empty streets. They point to the privately-run neighborhood of Cherry Creek, which has managed to thrive despite the pandemic, as a contrast to the public spaces of downtown Denver. The speaker suggests that the key difference lies in the fact that people live in Cherry Creek and the street is privately owned and maintained.The discussion also touches on the topic of campaign finance and the recent controversy surrounding Victor Marx, a Republican candidate for governor, who has been accused of accepting campaign contributions over the legal limit. The speaker raises questions about the party's ethics and the nomination of candidates who have been involved in questionable practices.If you're interested in understanding the complexities of urban development, campaign finance, and the state of politics in Colorado, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's insightful analysis and thoughts on how to move forward.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-18-26 - 11am - Taxpayer Relief Shots 18.09.2026 34min

  Best part of the week... Taxpayer Relief Shots!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-18-26 - Daily Talkbacks 18.09.2026 1min

  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-17-26 - 9am - Local Sawmill Text and AI Fear 17.09.2026 30min

  This episode is a wild ride, folks. The speaker takes a deep dive into the world of artificial intelligence, but it's not just about the tech – it's about the people behind it, and the power struggles that come with it. You'll hear a fascinating conversation about the intersection of politics, economics, and innovation, all centered around a very real and pressing issue: the future of AI.This episode is a thought-provoking exploration of the AI landscape, where the speaker challenges common assumptions and digs into the facts. You'll hear about the dangers of AI, but not in the way you might expect. The speaker argues that the real issue isn't the tech itself, but rather the power grab that's happening behind the scenes. You'll also hear about the fantasy of a deal between the US and China, and how it's being used to manipulate public opinion.The speaker talks to a young expert in the field, who shares his concerns about the potential risks of AI, but also offers a glimmer of hope. You'll hear about the importance of understanding the information that's going into AI models, and how that affects the decisions they make. The speaker also delves into the world of politics, where you'll hear about a surprising alliance between a socialist senator and a Silicon Valley doomsayer.If you're interested in staying ahead of the curve on the latest tech trends, and you want to understand the human side of the story, this episode is a must-listen. Join the conversation and hear the speaker's take on the complex world of AI, politics, and power struggles.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-17-26 - 10am - Fear Sells and Sports Gambling 17.09.2026 32min

  In this episode, the speaker takes a critical look at the fear-mongering surrounding artificial intelligence and the efforts to regulate it. They argue that the people selling us fear are often motivated by their own self-interest, whether it's politicians, CEOs, or venture capitalists.The speaker discusses how the Chinese Communist Party is also selling fear to the US, and how this fear is often used to justify giving them an advantage in the development of AI. They also touch on the topic of prediction markets, specifically the app Novig, which is being used to circumvent state laws on sports betting. The app's owner, Sidney Sweeney, has been at the center of a controversy over a commercial she appeared in, which some have criticized for objectifying women.The speaker delves into the details of Novig's business model, including its use of federal oversight to operate in states where sports betting is illegal. They also discuss the company's valuation and the fact that many of its investors, including a movie star, stand to gain from its success. The speaker notes that the outrage over the commercial has actually helped to boost the app's marketing budget.If you're interested in learning more about the intersection of AI, politics, and business, and how the people involved are using fear to further their own interests, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's insightful analysis and discussion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-17-26 - 11am - Optiv Leaves Denver for Not the Reason You Think 17.09.2026 29min

  In a shocking move, Optiv, a cybersecurity company, has left its headquarters in downtown Denver, Colorado, and relocated to Leawood, Kansas. But is this a case of Colorado losing a valuable business, or is it a symptom of a larger issue? This episode delves into the world of leveraged buyouts, where private equity firms use borrowed money to buy companies, often leaving them with crippling debt and a high risk of bankruptcy.The speaker discusses the case of Optiv, which was bought by a private equity firm, KKR, in 2017. The company's debt ballooned, and it was forced to sublease office space and lay off employees. But this is not an isolated incident - the speaker reveals that many companies have fallen victim to leveraged buyouts, including Toys R Us, Saks, and Forever 21. The numbers are staggering, with private equity-owned firms accounting for almost half of the largest bankruptcies in the country.The speaker argues that the problem lies not just with the companies themselves, but with the system that allows private equity firms to use borrowed money to pay themselves dividends and advisory fees, while the companies struggle to stay afloat. The speaker also highlights the role of public pension systems, which invest in these firms and often fail to demand better terms.If you're interested in learning more about the complex world of leveraged buyouts and how they're affecting businesses and communities, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's insightful analysis and discussion of the issues at play.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-17-26 - Daily Talkbacks 17.09.2026 3min

  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-16-26 - 9am - HeeHaw the Donkey 16.09.2026 30min

  In a shocking turn of events, a recent incident in Georgia has left many questioning the actions of law enforcement. A 12-year-old girl went missing, and a search party was dispatched to find her. But what happened next is a story that will leave you speechless. A canine officer, accompanied by a police dog, entered a pasture to search for the missing child, but ended up killing a miniature donkey named Hee Haw instead. The incident has sparked a heated debate about police accountability and the use of force.This episode delves into the details of the incident and explores the complexities of the law surrounding police actions. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about his own experience with the FBI, which sets the tone for the discussion. He also touches on the importance of understanding the law and its implications on our daily lives. The conversation is engaging, informative, and thought-provoking, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in law, justice, and current events.The speaker discusses the concept of exigent circumstances, which allows police to enter private property in emergency situations, such as a missing child. However, he also highlights the importance of considering the impact of police actions on individuals and their property. The incident involving Hee Haw raises questions about police training and the use of force, particularly when it comes to family pets.If you're interested in learning more about this fascinating and disturbing case, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's analysis and insights. He shares his expertise and provides context to help listeners understand the complexities of the law and its application in real-life situations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-16-26 - 10am - A Local Sawmill Closure Brings Up A Larger Problem 16.09.2026 32min

  In a world where the rules of the game are changing, a small town in Colorado is facing a big problem. The Montrose Forest Products sawmill, a vital part of the local economy, is shutting down due to a perfect storm of circumstances. The mill's owner, the Niemanns, can't get enough logs to keep the doors open, and the rising cost of diesel fuel is the final nail in the coffin.This episode delves into the complex issues surrounding the sawmill's closure, from the decline of the national forest's timber supply to the impact of the war with Iran on the global fuel market. The speaker takes a closer look at the role of federal regulations and the war in the sawmill's demise, and explores the consequences of not having a working sawmill in the area. The discussion also touches on the importance of active forest management and the need for a more sustainable approach to forestry.The speaker argues that the sawmill's closure is not just a local issue, but a symptom of a larger problem. With the national forest's timber supply dwindling and the cost of diesel fuel skyrocketing, the consequences of not having a working sawmill are far-reaching. The speaker highlights the importance of finding a balance between environmental concerns and economic needs, and explores the potential solutions to this complex problem.If you're interested in learning more about the issues surrounding the Montrose Forest Products sawmill and the impact of federal regulations and the war on the local economy, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's insightful analysis and discussion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-16-26 - 11am - Fees on Selling Wildlife Photography in Colorado? 16.09.2026 32min

  In a shocking turn of events, a wildlife photographer in Colorado is pushing for a permit that would require anyone who sells a photo of the state's wildlife to pay a fee to the state. The proposal has sparked a heated debate about the role of photography and the government's authority over public resources.This episode delves into the world of wildlife photography and the complex relationship between the government and the people who make a living from capturing the beauty of nature. The speaker shares a personal story about a woman who filed a petition to create a permit for wildlife photographers, and the implications it has on the industry. Along the way, the conversation touches on the importance of the First Amendment and the potential consequences of the government setting a price on a photo based on its content.The speaker argues that the proposal is not just about wildlife photography, but about the government's tendency to turn everything into a fee. They point out that this is not a new phenomenon, but rather a habit that has been cultivated over time. The speaker also shares a personal anecdote about a time when they had to pay a fee to exercise their Second Amendment right, and how it's a slippery slope when the government starts charging for something that's supposed to be a fundamental right.If you're interested in learning more about this fascinating topic and the implications it has on our society, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's thoughts on the matter and why they believe this proposal is a threat to our freedom of expression.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-16-26 - Daily Talkbacks 16.09.2026 2min

  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-15-26 - 9am - Aurora Data Centers Water & Power 15.09.2026 31min

  This episode is a wild ride, folks, as our host dives into the world of data centers, AI, and the real issues behind the fear-mongering. Buckle up and get ready to learn something new.In this episode, our host tackles the topic of data centers and their impact on our daily lives. From the water usage to the power grid, our host breaks down the facts and figures, and sets the record straight on what's really going on. You'll hear about the real villains behind the data center debate, and why the fear-mongering is just a decoy. With a healthy dose of humor and a dash of skepticism, our host takes on the topic with his signature style.You'll learn about the real issues behind the data center debate, including the impact on our power grid and the water usage. Our host also shares some surprising facts, like the fact that data centers use less water than California almonds. You'll hear about the real solutions to the problems, and why zoning and permitting are the keys to responsible data center development.So, if you're tired of the fear-mongering and want to get to the bottom of the data center debate, tune in to this episode. Our host will give you the lowdown on what's really going on, and why it's time to stop panicking and start building.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-15-26 - 10am - Saudi Arabia Asking for Help and House Prices 15.09.2026 31min

  This episode is a wild ride, folks, as our host navigates a conversation that's equal parts humorous and insightful. We're talking about everything from the intricacies of OCD to the complexities of international politics, all while trying to give away some Broncos tickets. But don't worry, it's not all fun and games - we dive into some serious topics, like the recent conflict in Yemen and the implications of the US's involvement (or lack thereof).This episode is a thought-provoking discussion that covers a lot of ground. Our host talks about the recent events in the Middle East, including the attack on Saudi oil facilities and the US's response. We also hear about the complexities of the US-Saudi relationship and the potential consequences of the US's decision not to get involved in the conflict. Along the way, our host shares some personal anecdotes and observations that add a touch of humor to the conversation.One of the key takeaways from this episode is the idea that the US's decision not to get involved in the conflict in Yemen may have been motivated by a desire to avoid getting entangled in a messy and unpopular war before the election. Our host also discusses the implications of this decision for the US's relationships with its allies in the region. Meanwhile, we hear about the challenges facing the real estate market in Colorado, where some homeowners are finding themselves underwater on their mortgages.If you're interested in staying up-to-date on current events and hearing some insightful commentary on the complexities of international politics, this episode is a must-listen. Our host's unique perspective and humor make for a engaging and thought-provoking conversation that's sure to leave you feeling informed and entertained.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-15-26 - 11am - Real Estate Hangover 15.09.2026 30min

  **Colorado's Housing Market: A Hangover from the Boom**Are you ready to dive into the latest news about Colorado's housing market? This episode is a must-listen for anyone who's been following the ups and downs of the state's real estate scene. The speaker takes a closer look at the numbers and reveals some surprising insights that might just change the way you think about the market.The conversation starts with a discussion about the state of the housing market in Colorado, where prices are falling and condos are taking the biggest hit. But it's not just about the numbers - it's about the people who are being affected by the market's downturn. The speaker shares a personal story about a couple who bought a condo at the peak of the market and are now struggling to sell it. This is a story that many listeners can relate to, and it's a reminder that the housing market is not just about numbers, but about real people and their financial lives.The speaker also delves into the reasons behind the market's decline, including the impact of interest rates and the changing demographics of the state. It's a complex issue, but one thing is clear: the market is not just a reflection of the state's economy, but also a reflection of its people. The speaker's analysis is insightful and thought-provoking, and it's a must-listen for anyone who wants to understand the intricacies of the housing market.So if you're curious about what's really going on in Colorado's housing market, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's take on the issue. With a mix of personal stories, data analysis, and expert insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to stay informed about the state's real estate scene.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-15-26 - Daily Talkbacks 15.09.2026 2min

  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  9-14-26 - 9am - The 9/11 Cleanup 14.09.2026 31min

  In a powerful and emotional episode, the speaker shares a personal story that highlights the importance of perseverance and dedication in the face of tragedy. This episode delves into the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks and the massive effort that went into recovering and identifying the remains of the victims.The speaker recounts their experience visiting the Fresh Kills landfill on Staten Island, where the World Trade Center debris was processed and searched for human remains. They describe the massive operation, which involved sifting through 1.4 million tons of debris by hand, and the incredible dedication of the workers who stood at the conveyor belts for 10 months, searching for body parts and personal effects. The speaker also shares their own journal entry from January 2002, which details the process and the emotional toll it took on those involved.The episode touches on the often-overlooked stories of the sanitation workers, detectives, and other individuals who worked tirelessly to recover and identify the remains of the victims. The speaker highlights the importance of remembering the human cost of the 9/11 attacks and the sacrifices made by those who worked to bring closure to the families of the victims.This episode is a poignant reminder of the importance of perseverance and dedication in the face of tragedy. If you're interested in hearing the full story and learning more about the aftermath of 9/11, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's personal account and the incredible efforts of those who worked to recover and identify the remains of the victims.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.