The Left Hook - You're in the File

On *The Left Hook* with host Mark Bland, guest Drew Pinson dives into a dynamic mix of politics, pop culture, and personal insights. Aired on CBS Radio, the episode kicks off with Bland’s enthusiasm for fall and Halloween, proposing a spooky-themed special featuring mystics and haunted locations. The conversation shifts to pop culture, with Pinson defending Almond Joy in a nostalgic candy bracket debate, highlighting the show’s recurring “Tournament of Pop Culture” segment. The discussion takes a serious turn as Bland and Pinson tackle political controversies. They criticize President Donald Trump’s leadership, likening it to a chaotic, transactional approach that destabilizes institutions. A focal point is the controversy surrounding Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, whose anti-vaccine stance and misinformation have prompted over a thousand HHS employees to demand his resignation. The hosts lament the politicization of health policy, with Pinson comparing RFK Jr.’s actions to “bombing for peace.” The episode also addresses the Epstein files, with survivors compiling their own client list due to the Justice Department’s inaction. Bland and Pinson question Trump’s dismissal of the files as a hoax, speculating on the lack of accountability even if incriminating evidence emerges. They express frustration over Trump’s influence, with Pinson noting the exhaustion of living under his prolonged political presence. Lightening the mood, the hosts debate wrestling, with Bland questioning AEW’s HBO Max deal and advocating for a direct-to-consumer model, while Pinson defends AEW’s appeal to adult fans. They wrap up with a lively discussion on the 2025 song of the summer, championing Chappell Roan’s *Pink Pony Club* over Billboard’s pick. *The Left Hook* blends humor, nostalgia, and sharp political commentary, engaging listeners with its eclectic mix.