Shows
The Review SquaredLooking Out Quite PuzzledThis episode, the 11th of the season, marks the final episode recorded live in studio until the fall and this week has everyone looking out to various things quite puzzled.
The segments this week are:
Gideon explaining how Arizona will have a flat income tax rate after all, as the state Supreme Court threw out a referendum on it
John discussing a recent charitable gala with Habitat for Humanity and Rose Law Group in the metaverse (and what the metaverse and NFTs are)
Haley talking about the resignation of the NCAA President Mark Emmert and some of...2022-05-2654 minThe Review SquaredJackie Robinson DayThe panel is missing Gideon on the 10th episode of the season and switches the regular segment order around a bit.
The stories this week are:
Haley talking about Jackie Robinson and his legacy on the 75th Jackie Robinson Day, marking the day when he broke the color barrier in baseball
John discussing the issue of men who have sex with men not being able to donate blood, as a national blood shortage gets worse
Kirsten continuing her series on incels with another incel dictionary segment and taking a look at Elliot Rodgers' views on both...2022-05-2451 minThe Review SquaredStatelessness, Starting Up and Starbucks (w/ Tori Gantz)The panel is missing Kirsten on the 9th episode of the season but is joined in the last segment by State Press politics reporter and fellow Blaze member, Tori Gantz.
The stories this week are:
John discussing a recent PBS NewsHour story on statelessness and how it affects people's lives
Haley giving a rundown of some of the highlights of the MLB's long-awaited opening day
Gideon and Tori explaining the Starbucks unionization campaign, both locally in Arizona and the larger context (for more on the national context Tori provided, see this episode of NPR's Up First po...2022-04-1152 minThe Review SquaredWe're All April Fools (w/ Rithwik Kalale)The 8th episode of the season was recorded on a day of jokes and with people who rarely take themselves seriously, but is not a joke itself. The panel this week, minus John, was joined by Rithwik Kalale, friend of the pod and fellow Blaze member. The stories this week are:
Gideon explaining the recently signed into law anti-trans bills in Arizona, SB 1138 (bans doctors from providing gender confirmation surgery to minors) and SB 1165 (bans transgender girls and women from women’s sports at all academic levels)
Rith talking about E3, the gaming expo, getting cancelled this year an...2022-04-1154 minThe Review SquaredLotus and the Apocalypse (w/ Austin Davis)The 7th episode of the season is mostly an interview with ASU student (also a returning Review Squared guest), poet and homeless outreach organizer Austin Davis. The stories this week are:
The panel interviewing Austin Davis about his recent book of poetry "Lotus and the Apocalypse" and his work with AZ Hugs for the Houseless
Kirsten continuing her multi-part series on incels (those who identify as "involuntarily celibate") by introducing the background of Elliot Rodgers
This episode was recorded on March 25th. You can find Austin on Twitter @Austin_Davis17 and on Instagram @austinwdavis1. His latest book "L...2022-04-1153 minThe Review SquaredCommunities, for WorseThe 6th episode of the season mostly focuses on those seeking to tear at the very fabric of healthy communities for all as Ethan (this episode marking his official departure from the show for the rest of the season) and Haley are out. The stories this week are:
Gideon looking into recent changes to a bill in the Arizona House, HB 2161, a controversial bill that in its original form was criticized for forcing teachers to out gay and transgender students
John talking about the new Hulu series "The Dropout", which is based on the story of Elizabeth Holmes a...2022-04-0649 minThe Review SquaredChild Abuse in the Name of Combatting "Child Abuse"Gideon and Haley are the only panelists on the 5th episode of the season but such is life sometimes. The stories this week are:
Gideon talking about a letter from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott calling for the state's child welfare agency to investigate any medical treatments provided to transgender teens as child abuse
Haley taking a look at the response in sports across the world to the escalating Russian-Ukrainian War
Our quick takes filler segment at the end: Gideon discussing the reappearance from exile of disgraced ex-Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko & Haley discussing the Cronkite School's (journalism school at...2022-04-0645 minThe Review SquaredThe Education Episode (w/ Cami Parrish)Gideon and John are the only regular panelists on the 4th episode of the season and are joined by local journalist, fellow Blaze Radio member and the Co-Executive Editor of the Downtown Devil, Cami Parrish for an episode almost entirely focused on education funding in Arizona. The stories this week are:
Gideon giving brief updates on two Arizona legislative bills mentioned on this show previously
Cami and John leading a discussion on what exactly the education funding cap is and what is meaningful about Arizona hitting it on March 1st (hint: lots of money for public schools becomes...2022-02-1352 minThe Review SquaredTo a Better Future For AllThe panel (minus Ethan) is back with a surprisingly high mix of hope for the future in the stories on the 3rd episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Gideon explaining HB 2674, a bipartisan bill meant to tackle Arizona's housing shortage through zoning reform
John talking about the efforts Afghan women are making to push back against the Taliban's prohibitions on women participating in education and the workforce
Kirsten discussing exploitation in true crime and the case of Brooke Preston's death, in light of Dead Asleep, a controversial new Hulu documentary about it
Haley taking a l...2022-02-1153 minThe Review SquaredThe World is a Bit of a MessThe panel is smaller (with Gideon and Haley out) on the 2nd episode of the season and COVID once again being the leading discussion topic as the world continues to be a bit of a mess. The stories this week are:
John talking about a bill in the Arizona Legislature that would make vaccine mandates harder to enforce and a bit about COVID in Arizona generally
Ethan discussing the situation in Ukraine as Russia builds moves troops near its border
Kirsten taking a look at the case of Lauren Smith-Fields' death
This episode was recorded on January 28t...2022-02-1053 minThe Review SquaredBe Safe, Be SmartThe panel (minus Ethan) marks our 2nd anniversary on Blaze and is back to our usual business on the 1st episode of the fifth season. The stories this week are:
Gideon and John talking about the omicron variant of COVID and what's going on there (Gideon doing a general overview, John focusing on cases in children)
Kirsten discussing the case of Irene Luevano's disappearance and death
Haley taking a look at the NCAA's policy changes concerning transgender athletes
This episode was recorded on January 21st. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press" by Betty Davis, the trans...2022-01-2356 minThe Review SquaredVigilantism and the American Right (w/ Wallace Milner)The panel is joined by Wallace Milner, a political science and history student at Portland State University on the 11th and final episode of the season to talk a bit about the history of right wing vigilantism in the United States, how it relates to current events and some other related topics. This episode was recorded on December 16th. You can find Wallace's writing in Reform and Revolution's magazine at reformandrevolution.org and Know Your Enemy can be found wherever you get podcasts. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press" by Betty Davis and the outro is "We A...2021-12-181h 12The Review SquaredRERUN: Kind of Odd, Don't You Think?The panel is off this week, as many of us are traveling home or just taking a much needed break. This is season 3, episode 17 from May of 2021. We'll be back in about a week with our last episode of 2021.
The panel, minus Ethan and Kirsten, come back from a brief hiatus on the 17th (and final) episode of the third season, just to go on a longer one for the summer. This episode is also Alejandro's last as a member of the panel, he will be missed. The stories this week are:
Gideon updating everyone on...2021-12-1055 minThe Review SquaredGoofing Off (w/ Vaughan Jones)The panel (minus John) goofed off this week with local reporter, verified on Twitter person and Blaze alum Vaughan Jones on the 10th episode of the season. The main activity this week: completing a Pixar tier list. Come and listen to the panel's hot and not so hot takes on Pixar movies as we celebrate Kirsten and Ethan's birthday.
This episode was recorded on December 3rd and is the last live recorded episode of 2021. You can find Vaughan on Twitter, they're @vjonesradio there and you can find their reporting on the Phoenix NPR affiliate KJZZ. The intro...2021-12-0650 minThe Review SquaredThe Discontented (w/ Nick Sanchez)The whole panel is back for a dive into public discontent with the 9th episode of the season and is joined by Nick Sanchez, the Blaze Radio News Director. The stories this week are:
Gideon explaining "Striketober" and how its spirit is finally hitting Arizona with a impeding strike at Sky Harbor Airport and a unionization push at a Mesa Starbucks
John taking a look at the recently concluded Kyle Rittenhouse trial and the judge who presided over it, Bruce Schroeder
Kirsten discussing the ongoing fraud trial for disgraced Theranos founder and CEO, Elizabeth Holmes
Nick taking a l...2021-11-2259 minThe Review SquaredBritney is Free at LastGideon and Kirsten are the only ones in for the 8th episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Gideon taking a look back at the now ended conservatorship over Britney Spears at the start of the episode and talking about Arizona being said to hit a rather dubious record: the only state where COVID was the leading cause of death at the end of the episode
Kirsten discussing the disappearance and death of Hailey Dunn in Colorado City, Texas
This episode was recorded on November 12th. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press" by B...2021-11-1354 minThe Review SquaredRERUN: How to Finally Be OK with Yourself...Director's note: we did an episode this week, forgot to record it. We're sorry. To make up, enjoy one of favorite episodes ever from a year ago.
Because we couldn't stop doing bonus podcast episodes this time last year, one of the og friends of the pod, (now former) Blaze Radio Music Director, musician in local band Cablebox (among lots of other things) and local reporter, Vaughan Jones hosts this episode about self-discovery of their identity as non-binary in what they titled "How to Finally Be OK with Yourself After Existing for 21 and 1/2 Years." The panel (Gideon...2021-11-1033 minThe Review SquaredThe Crossover Episode (w/ Nicole Pinter)CW for Nicole's segment at the end of the show: sexual assault
The whole panel (including Ethan!) is back for a jam-packed 7th episode of the season, where Nicole Pinter (co-host of Blaze shows The Future is Female and Hypothetically Speaking) joins as a guest panelist to bring about one of the greatest crossover episode showdown in the history of Blaze crossover episode showdowns. The stories this week are:
Gideon explaining congressional and legislative redistricting, specifically looking at Arizona
John talking about embattled Arizona U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema being confronted (again) in an airport
Ethan t...2021-11-0155 minThe Review SquaredThe John and Kirsten HourJohn and Kirsten are all by themselves for the 6th episode of the season. The stories this week are:
John talking about Alec Baldwin fatally shooting Halyna Hutchins, the director of photography on the set of the movie "Rust" with a prop gun, along with a viral incident of shaming a high school girl for her homecoming dress that led to a TikTok trend discussing "Boomer hate"
Kirsten discussing the issues with sensationalism and reckless speculation in true crime media online (focusing on the Gabby Petito case)
This episode was recorded on October 22nd. The intro music...2021-10-2753 minThe Review SquaredThe Review Squared Season 4 PromoBlaze Radio continues to force us to make a promo for our show as a condition of broadcasting it, so enjoy this prescription for the 4th season of The Review Squared. Music is by lesfm from Pixabay.2021-10-2600 minThe Review SquaredWe Live in a SocietyAfter a week's hiatus, the panel is back for the 5th episode of the season where we are reminded once again that we live in a society full of controversy and uncertainty. The stories this week are:
Gideon taking a look at the vaccine mandate for employees of Arizona's public universities at the start of the episode and leading an impromptu discussion of the controversy surrounding Dave Chappelle's latest Netflix comedy special at the end of the episode
John talking about the new FX show about the Monica Lewinsky scandal, Impeachment: American Crime Story
Kirsten discussing some recent...2021-10-1857 min
The Review SquaredRERUN: A Conversation with Janelle SalangaThis episode contains some strong language. This is a rerun of season 2, episode 18 from the end of December 2020 because the panel is taking a much needed break this week. If you're an ASU student, have a restful fall break. If you are not, all the same, stay well. New, live episodes will resume next week (October 18th) at 7pm MST on Blaze Radio.
On the last of three parts of our holiday special and the season 2 finale, journalist Janelle Salanga is on once again as a guest panelist to talk with the panel (Gideon, Kirsten, John, Alejandro a...2021-10-081h 19The Review SquaredIt's the Remix to CorruptionThe panel is bigger once again, with our regular contributor Ethan Pelland back talking about international affairs on this episode as everyone focuses on corruption, both of the political and moral kind on the 4th episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Gideon discussing the recent conviction of R. Kelly on sex trafficking charges and racketeering
John talking about the recent increase in unruly flight passengers in the US
Ethan explaining the persecution of attorney Steven Donziger because he was the lawyer for the winning side of a court case that led to a massive settlement...2021-10-0455 minThe Review SquaredLies, Disappearances and the Police (w/ Sarah Nelson)Gideon and Kirsten are joined this week in really good discussions by Sarah Nelson, a public policy student at ASU on the 3rd episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Gideon taking one (hopefully) final look at the Maricopa County "audit" as the report about it is released that leads to a discussion on voting rights
Kirsten giving updates on the case of Gabby Petito and leading a discussion on "missing white woman syndrome"
Sarah discussing a story of a recent death of a man in police custody in downtown Phoenix and some parts of the Dep...2021-09-2656 minThe Review SquaredIt is All at Least a Little DisappointingIt's a small panel this week but the stories are still big as always and are all disappointing (or even tragic, depending on what you think) on the 2nd episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Gideon tackling both the intro story about SRP's controversial decision to expand a natural gas-burning power plant and the final story about Nicki Minaj venturing into anti-vaxx tweeting in the most ridiculous way possible
John discussing "the teens these days" stealing random stuff from their schools as a part of a TikTok trend
Kirsten taking a look at a still deve...2021-09-1949 minThe Review SquaredMake Us Your Leader (Please Don't)The panel makes a long-awaited return to being live in the studio and asks to become the Supreme Ruling Council in the season premiere of the 4th season. This episode is Haley's final episode this season as a regular member of the panel (she will be missed) and Ethan will be on the show biweekly this season (at least we have Ethan around sometimes). The stories this week are:
Gideon looking into the national debate about COVID restrictions and school board politics colliding here in Arizona
John discussing Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer publicly criticizing the decision to...2021-09-1259 min
The Review SquaredKind of Odd, Don't You Think?The panel, minus Ethan and Kirsten, come back from a brief hiatus on the 17th (and final) episode of the season, just to go on a longer one for the summer. This episode is also Alejandro's last as a member of the panel, he will be missed. The stories this week are:
Gideon updating everyone on the latest twists of the ongoing Arizona ballot audit ordered by the State Senate.
John discussing the recent CDC guidance which said vaccinated people do not have to wear a face mask.
Alejandro reviewing Olivia Rodrigo's new album, SOUR.
Haley talking about...2021-05-2255 minThe Review SquaredBallot Audits, Newsroom Pay and Indie FilmThe discussions were big even as half of the panel (Ethan, Kirsten and Haley) are away on the 16th episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Gideon explaining the ongoing Arizona ballot audit ordered by the State Senate.
John discussing a NewsGuild pay equity study that showed massive racial and gender pay disparities in Gannett owned newsrooms and what it showed about pay at the Arizona Republic.
Alejandro talking about blockbusters like Mortal Kombat crowding out independent film.
This episode was recorded on April 30th. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press" by Betty...2021-05-0459 minThe Review SquaredWho Matters? What Matters?An important aspect of any story is the answer to the questions of "Who matters?" and "What matters?" and the panel takes stock of that as John and Haley are away on the 15th episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Gideon talking about the push by Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich to resume executions and the death penalty more broadly.
Ethan taking a look at the announcement of a U.S. withdrawal deadline from Afghanistan and what that means.
Kirsten discussing an upcoming STARZ documentary, "Confronting a Killer" and the broader issue of...2021-04-1957 minThe Review SquaredWhat's Past is Present and FutureThings that have happened lead to things that are happening (and more to come) and these stories this week are no exception as Alejandro is away on the 14th episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Gideon taking a look at the failed attempt to unionize Amazon warehouse workers in Bessemer, Alabama and how it may just be getting started, all the same.
John talking about Tucker Carlson coming under fire (once again) for using white nationalist rhetoric.
Ethan explaining the ongoing blockade in Yemen and some background information of the conflict.
Kirsten discussing the case...2021-04-1354 minThe Review SquaredInfrastructure WeekKirsten is away on the 13th episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Gideon taking a look at one aspect of President Joe Biden's infrastructure plan: public transit funding.
John talking about the various investigations and allegations surrounding Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz.
Ethan giving updates on the aftermath of the Myanmar coup and how the military is cracking down on any opposition.
Alejandro highlighting some activists fighting anti-trans legislation across the country. You can follow everyone mentioned on Instagram: Chase Strangio, Raquel Willis, Chris Mosier, Schuyler Bailar and Alok Vaid-Menon.
Haley going through the top 10 mome...2021-04-0646 minThe Review SquaredMask Off?This episode is full of the panel mostly discussing mask off moments, both literal and figurative as Ethan and Alejandro are away on the 12th episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Gideon giving another update on Arizona COVID news, about the expansion of vaccine eligibility to all people in Arizona who are 16 and older, the lifting of any COVID restrictions on businesses and ending the ability for counties and cities to place mask mandates by Gov. Doug Ducey.
John talking about a scandal at a Chicago area hospital over giving COVID vaccines to those who...2021-03-3153 minThe Review SquaredTragedyDifficult conversations and some switching of the wires with segment hosts happen as Gideon is away on the 11th episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Ethan discussing the mass shooting in Atlanta that killed eight people, including six Asian women and a bystander along with the context of other recent anti-Asian hate crimes. If you have the money to spare and are willing to give, the gofundmes for some of the families left behind are https://gofund.me/6653b648 and https://gofund.me/0dd50115. Also, you can support other causes in the AAPI community here, h...2021-03-2159 min
The Review SquaredThe Spring Break Special: Tier ListsThe panel on The Review Squared (and all students at ASU) did not have a spring break, so we decided to take a break from our routine episodes and Alejandro took charge of this podcast exclusive episode with returning guest Vaughan Jones (og friend of the pod, Blaze Music Director, reporter at NPR affiliate KJZZ, among loads of other things) to host The Spring Break Special, where we spent time making two tier lists. The first tier list discussed in this episode is on Spider-Man movies and the second is on boxed cereals. You can follow Vaughan on Twitter...2021-03-151h 19The Review SquaredSen. Sinema's Moment in the SunOnly Alejandro, Gideon and Haley are on 10th episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Gideon taking a look at the COVAX program and African countries starting to get COVID vaccines.
Alejandro talking about a collaboration between Blue Wire and Wynn Resorts to build a podcast studio in their Las Vegas hotel.
Haley sharing news about a business venture between Sue Bird, Chloe Kim, Simone Manuel and Alex Morgan called TOGETHXR, a media outlet focused on women's sports. And she also mentions the big local sports story of the week: JJ Watt signing with the Arizona C...2021-03-0952 min
The Review SquaredThe Messy Call-In EpisodeTechnical difficulties reign (like how most of what Gideon said never being heard on air or on the recording either) and callers call in on this 9th episode of the season. The stories this week are:
Kirsten discussing the role of "web sleuths" in true crime.
Alejandro talking with the panel about the decision by ASU to move the vast majority of classes to in-person sessions in the fall.
Ethan briefly explaining the first Syrian air strikes ordered by the Biden administration.
John sharing a story of a reporter under fire over a tweet that many saw as...2021-03-0939 minThe Review SquaredThe Review Squared Season 3 PromoAs a show on Blaze Radio, we are once again required to make a promo ad for this season. This is our season 3 promo, coming as we enter our second year as a show. The music is "Soaring" by Patricia Taxxon.2021-02-2100 minThe Review SquaredFueled by RageIt was a maddening week with Ethan gone and this 8th episode of the season is fueled by rage that brings us all far too close to profanity (in Alejandro's case, actually brings him there). The stories this week are:
Gideon giving a general overview of the situation in Texas in the preceding (the bitter winter storm, power outages, water failures, Ted Cruz fleeing all of it). You can find out how to help out (or receive help) in Texas with this article, "How to help and get help in Texas as the winter storm causes power outages"...2021-02-2155 minThe Review SquaredBritney Spears and Media AccountabilityThis is the 7th episode of the season, with John and Ethan out and contains:
Gideon giving another Arizona COVID numbers update and news of increased supply of COVID vaccine doses incoming
Kirsten explaining a bit about the case of Elissa Lam, given the new Netflix documentary "Crime Scene: The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel"
Alejandro talking about the New York Times' new documentary "Framing Britney Spears" and media accountability
Haley discussing what "Olympic sports" and "revenue sports" are at colleges and the struggle of the former
This episode was recorded on February 12...2021-02-1457 minThe Review SquaredRoundupsContent warning for Kirsten's segment: sexual assault.
This is the 6th episode of the season and contains:
Gideon giving a roundup of news from the Arizona State Legislature (stories: State Senate attempting to hold Maricopa County Board of Supervisors in contempt, potential expansion of school vouchers and new state level protections for pregnancy discrimination)
John talking about a viral incident of a grocery store in Florida where almost no one was wearing masks
Ethan taking a look at the coup in Myanmar, what led to it and what it means
Kirsten explaining the cold case of V...2021-02-0756 min
The Review SquaredStonks!On the 5th episode of the season, the panel has a jam packed episode after a rather bizarre week. Gideon breaks down the situation surrounding the sub-Reddit WallStreetBets and the stock market, John talks about the many controversies surrounding Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, Ethan takes a look at the background of Biden's Iran envoy Robert Malley, Kirsten explains a bit of the case of Scott Falater, Alejandro talks about the cancellation of Cochella and Stagecoach music festivals due to COVID along with the experience of concert going and Haley discusses the problem of concussions in the soccer...2021-02-0156 min
NewsdiveThe Blinken Episode (feat. Ethan Pelland & Gideon Kariuki)Sam and Shane are joined by student journalists, Ethan Pelland and Gideon Kariuki, hosts of The Review Squared. Together, the four go over the recent Senate confirmation hearing of newly appointed Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, and have a wide-ranging conversation about U.S. foreign policy.2021-01-281h 21The Review SquaredThe Review Squared One Year SpecialOn the 4th episode of the season, we took a break from the normal routine to celebrate one year on air as Ethan is away. We share our favorite moments of being on the air one year and the panel recounts how we got drawn into being on the show. This episode was recorded on January 22nd. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press" by Betty Davis and the outro is "We Are Heading to the East" by springtide. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on the show, announcements about our future and m...2021-01-2557 minThe Review SquaredThe Joys of JanuaryOn the 3rd episode of the season, we returned to Blaze Radio as John was away. Gideon takes a look at Arizona Governor Doug Ducey's education plan in the 2021 budget, Ethan breaks down nuclear arms control as the New START Treaty expires, Kirsten explains the controversy of the Netflix documentary Night Stalker and a bit about the story behind it, Alejandro talks about what has brought him joy during quarantine with the panel and Haley discusses the Arizona Interscholastic Association's (AIA) choices on whether to have a winter sports season. This episode was recorded on January 15th. The intro...2021-01-1754 min
The Review SquaredA Conversation with Austin DavisThis episode contains some strong language.
On the 2nd episode of the season, we sat down with fellow ASU student and poet Austin Davis to talk about his poetry and his work with the houseless in metro Phoenix. If you want to purchase The World Isn't the Size of Our Neighborhood Anymore, you can find it on Amazon here (or take the ISBN to search for it and order it online from a local bookstore!) and if you want Celestial Night Light you can find it at Ghost City Press. To conatct Austin, you can find him...2021-01-1158 minThe Review SquaredWe're Already Being Told to Move On?The Review Squared is back for its third season and a new year. Most of this longer than usual 1st episode is Gideon talking with the panel about everything surrounding the pro-Trump mob that descended on the US Capitol on January 6th. Other segments in the episode include Haley discussing the reaction in the sports world to the Capitol insurrection, John takes a look at the story around "SoHo Karen" and her interview with Gayle King, and Kirsten breaks down the case of the still unsolved Las Cruces Bowl Massacre. If you or anyone you know has any information...2021-01-111h 25
The Review SquaredA Conversation with Robert EvansThis episode contains some strong language.
On the 16th episode of our season and the first of three parts of our holiday special, the panel (minus John and Ethan) talks to conflict journalist Robert Evans about his work and journalism more broadly. You can find Robert's podcasts Uprising and Behind the Bastards wherever you get podcasts. You can also follow him on Twitter, he's @IwriteOK over there. This episode was recorded on December 17th. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press" by Betty Davis and the outro is "We Are Heading to the East" by springtide. D...2020-12-221h 06
The Review SquaredThe 1st Annual Review Squared Holiday Music SpecialOn the 17th episode of our season and the second of three parts of our holiday special, journalist Janelle Salanga joins the panel (minus Ethan) as a guest panelist as we talk about all about our takes and favorites among holiday songs of this time of year. You can find Janelle on Twitter, they're @janelle_cpp over there. This episode was recorded on December 18th. The intro music is "The Christmas Song" by Nat King Cole and the outro is the instrumental version of "Christmas Time is Here" by the Vince Guaraldi Trio. We own absolutely none of the...2020-12-2252 min
The Review SquaredA Conversation with Janelle SalangaThis episode contains some strong language.
On the 18th episode of our season, the last of three parts of our holiday special and the season finale, journalist Janelle Salanga is on once again as a guest panelist to talk with the panel (minus Ethan) about Public Media for All, and on diversity, equity and inclusion in journalism more generally. You can find Janelle's Substack here, The Objective here (Janelle's recent Q&A with J.C. Polk and Ernesto Aguilar about Public Media for All too) and Janelle on Twitter, they're @janelle_cpp over there. This episode was...2020-12-221h 19The Review SquaredTrue Crime in Pop Culture and the State of AffairsOn the 15th episode of our season, we continue the long tradition of taking the conversation where we did not expect it to go and Kirsten is still around for the month with John and Alejandro away. Kirsten talks about recent true crime references in pop culture (D.B. Cooper and the Loki trailer, a song on Taylor Swift's new album evermore), Gideon takes a look once again at the coronavirus in Arizona and Ethan discusses President-elect Biden's cabinet picks for the Defense and State Departments. This episode was recorded on December 11th. The intro music is "Dedicated to...2020-12-1458 minThe Review SquaredWelcome Back Kirsten, Amid EverythingOn the 14th episode of our season, friend of the pod and the host of fellow Blaze Radio podcast "Crime Brulee," (among other things) Kirsten Dorman joins us once again as a guest panelist for the rest of December as John and Ethan are absent. Kirsten talks about the case of Emilie Morris, Gideon takes a look at stories of monoliths and Sen. Mark Kelly being sworn in, Alejandro discusses Warner Brothers decision to release all of their 2021 movies on HBO Max given COVID (and movie theaters shutting down), and Haley does a rundown of ASU's men's and women's b...2020-12-0859 minThe Review SquaredTechnical Difficulties and GrievancesOn the 13th episode of our season, we experience technical difficulties as John and Ethan are away. Gideon takes a look at recent results from phase 3 human trials of COVID-19 vaccines, Alejandro makes a case against inaction from Gov. Doug Ducey on pandemic response and against President-elect Joe Biden fundraising for his presidential transition, and Haley gives an update about high school sports and COVID-19, along with news of a new arena for ASU hockey (and some other sports). This episode was recorded on November 20th. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press" by Betty Davis and the...2020-12-0357 minThe Review SquaredThe Grand Canyon State is a TrainwreckOn the 12th episode of our season, all roads (stories) lead to Arizona as Ethan is away. John explains his time covering the protests outside the Maricopa County tabulation center during election week, Gideon takes a look at the increase in COVID-19 numbers locally, Alejandro discusses his relationship with being from Arizona and Haley talks about high school football in Arizona and how COVID is affecting the season. You can take a look at and subscribe to unsnackable (the Substack mentioned by Alejandro) here. This episode was recorded on November 13th. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press"...2020-11-1650 minThe Review SquaredBONUS: How to Finally Be OK with Yourself...Because we can't stop doing bonus podcast episodes, one of the og friends of the pod, Blaze Radio Music Director, and musician in local band Cablebox (among lots of other things), Vaughan Jones hosts this episode about self-discovery of their identity as non-binary in what they titled "How to Finally Be OK with Yourself After Existing for 21 and 1/2 Years." The panel (Gideon, Ethan, Alejandro and Haley) and Vaughan talk about identity, self-discovery and friendship in the conversation that follows. You can follow Vaughan on Twitter, they're @vjonesradio over there. If you have something you want to share about yourself...2020-11-0732 minThe Review SquaredOn the Election, Conflict and Journalism TodayOn the 11th episode of our season, one of the og friends of the pod, Blaze Radio Music Director, and musician in local band Cablebox (among lots of other things), Vaughan Jones joins as a guest panelist for the second time in a month while John is out. Gideon talks about (still being determined) election results along with the debunked conspiracy theory of "sharpiegate" and pro-Trump protesters at the Maricopa County tabulation center, Ethan takes a look at the clashes between the national government and Tigray People's Liberation Front in Ethiopia's Tigray region, Alejandro discusses journalists and self-care with...2020-11-0759 minThe Review SquaredBolivia and Assange, Ariana Grande New AlbumOn the 10th episode of our season (with John out), Gideon, Ethan and Haley sat with journalist, press freedom advocate and host of Newsdive, Sam Carliner to talk about what is going on in Bolivia and the Julian Assange extradition trial. Gideon talked about the War of the Worlds radio incident from 1938 and Alejandro reviewed Ariana Grande's new album "Positions" with a slightly altered panel (Gideon, Haley and Alejandro). This episode was recorded on October 30th. The radio play mentioned, Whose Dying is now available on SoundCloud, both part 1 and part 2. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press" b...2020-11-051h 00The Review SquaredBONUS: Trump and Biden on Foreign PolicyIn this podcast exclusive episode, Gideon, Ethan and Haley sat with journalist, press freedom advocate and host of Newsdive, Sam Carliner to talk about some of the differences between the U.S. presidential candidates Joe Biden and incumbent president Donald Trump on foreign policy. This episode was recorded on October 30th. The music is "We Are Heading to the East" by springtide. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on the show and more, both are now @review_squared.2020-11-0300 min
The Review SquaredEthan Pelland Takes on the WorldOn the 9th episode of our season, Ethan takes over most of the show to recap a very eventful week on the world stage as Haley is absent. Gideon discusses increasing COVID case numbers leading to a record daily high; Ethan recounts multiple stories including: the return to democracy in Bolivia with the presidential election, the ongoing Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict, the U.S. State Department thinking about designating some prominent NGOs like Amnesty International, the U.S. signing the (anti-abortion clause containing) Geneva Consensus Declaration with some countries that have poor records on women's rights and the huge anti-police brutality pro...2020-10-2651 minThe Review SquaredThe Vaughan Jones Show*On the 8th episode of our season, one of the og friends of the pod, Blaze Radio Music Director, and musician in local band Cablebox (among lots of other things), Vaughan Jones joins as a guest panelist while John is absent. Important and sad note about a regular panelist: Madison Young has left the regular panel officially as of this episode. We will miss her and hope you continue to follow her great work at The State Press, like this recent video.
Gideon takes a look at early voter turnout and the continuing sight of long lines...2020-10-1859 min
The Review SquaredBONUS: A Conversation With Vaughan JonesIn this bonus and short podcast exclusive episode, the panel hot seated and had a conversation with one of the og friends of the pod, Blaze Radio Music Director, and musician in local band Cablebox (among lots of other things), Vaughan Jones on anything that came to mind. From hot dogs being sandwiches, to sports, to their music and more, we hit many of Vaughan's bases (at least we hope). You can follow Vaughan on Twitter, they're @vjonesradio over there. This episode was recorded on October 16th. The music is "We Are Heading to the East" by springtide. Don't fo...2020-10-1820 minThe Review SquaredThe Review Squared Season 2 PromoYes, we're about halfway through our 2nd season, but we finally had to do a promo for Blaze Radio. Enjoy it!2020-10-1600 minThe Review SquaredA Friend, a Mystery and EnemiesOn the 7th episode of our season, friend of the pod and the host of fellow Blaze Radio podcast "Crime Brulee," (among other things) Kirsten Dorman joins as a guest panelist as Madison and John are absent. Kirsten talks about the Dyatlov Pass incident and a recent update to the case; Gideon takes a look at the jailing of the hotelier and subject of the movie "Hotel Rwanda," Paul Rusesabagina in Rwanda, Ethan analyzes the ongoing Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict, Alejandro thinks out loud about productivity in midst of a global pandemic and Haley discusses the mistakes of referees in sports...2020-10-1159 minThe Review SquaredCA Electric Cars, No Closing AZ Again, Afganistan Peace (?), Megan Thee Stallion and the Pac-12 is BackOn the 6th episode of our season, we return to actually airing on Blaze Radio with John absent. Madison talks about California's new order to phase out gas-powered cars by 2035; Gideon discusses Gov. Doug Ducey's insistence that no business restrictions will be placed again, even as COVID cases are starting to go up in some counties; Ethan breaks down the ongoing Afghanistan withdrawal and peace talks; Alejandro criticizes the response from many quarters to the shooting of Megan Thee Stallion this summer in light of Tory Lanez's new album and Haley breaks down the return of Pac-12 sports in...2020-09-2757 minThe Review SquaredMoving OnWe're officially reaffiliating with Blaze Radio on the 5th episode of the season with Madison and Haley out. Gideon discusses the recent moves to ban TikTok and WeChat in the U.S., John talks about recent changes made to the semester schedule by ASU, Ethan analyses the recent deals between Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain and Alejandro thinks about Lady Gaga's recent album Chromatica and becoming disillusioned by artists through their career. This episode was recorded on September 18th. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press" by Betty Davis and the outro is "We Are Heading...2020-09-2151 minThe Review SquaredCOVID on Campus, the ICC, "My Truck" and NFL FansWe're back for the 4th episode of the season with John and Madison out. Gideon discusses COVID numbers on campus and responses by students and different universities, Ethan talks about sanctions applied to ICC officials, Alejandro reviews BRELAND's EP, and Haley takes a look at the response to a unity display at a Chiefs and Texans game. This episode was recorded on September 11th. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press" by Betty Davis and the outro is "We Are Heading to the East" by springtide. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on...2020-09-151h 06The Review SquaredFires & Being on FireWe're back for the 3rd episode of the season with Ethan and John out and a new name for the show, The Review Squared! Madison talks about wetland wildfires in Brazil, Gideon discusses the effects of smoke and increasing numbers of wildfires in California and the West, Alejandro reflects on listening to familiar music in difficult times, and Haley has a conversation with the panel on what makes a sports icon. This episode was recorded on September 4th. The intro music is "Dedicated to the Press" by Betty Davis and the outro is "We Are Heading to the East"...2020-09-0855 min
The Review SquaredThe Police EpisodeOn our 2nd episode of the season, Madison was out and we talked a lot about policing and the discussion around policing in the U.S. John looks at the context of the Kenosha, Wisconsin shooting from a local perspective, Gideon talks about the charges Portsmouth, Virginia Police filed on politicians and local activists for "conspiracy to injure a monument," Ethan discusses the U.S. demanding compensation from Sudan for terrorist attacks, Alejandro makes a case of media accessibility and criticized the handling of Kenosha shooter by some media outlets, and Haley recounts a week of Black Lives Matter...2020-08-301h 21The Review SquaredBack to School, I Guess!This episode contains some strong language.
We're back for season 2 of The Review! This week in the podcast exclusive season premiere, the whole panel talks about coming back to school (Arizona State University) in the middle of a pandemic and other things like prisoner firefighters not being available because of COVID outbreaks. This episode was recorded on August 21st. Music: https://www.purple-planet.com. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on the show and more, both are now @review_squared.2020-08-261h 06The Review SquaredAn Awful Week for Cronkite & The New York TimesIn the second of two special episodes this week, the panel (minus John, Madison and Ethan) discusses the allegations of racism and homophobia against the (at the time of recording) incoming dean of the Cronkite School, Sonya Duhé, some other journalism controversies from Cronkite News and The New York Times and objectivity. Listener note: ASU later revoked the offer for Duhé's to be dean, after the show was recorded. You can find Lewis Raven Wallace's The View from Somewhere wherever you get podcasts. Music: https://www.purple-planet.com. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for up...2020-06-101h 10The Review SquaredGeorge Floyd and UnrestIn the first of two special episodes this week, the panel (minus John, Madison and Ethan) talks about the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the unrest that followed and police brutality more generally. Black lives matter. For more on police abolition, listen to Episode 20 of the podcast Justice in America, from The Appeal, where activist Mariame Kaba explains it. Music: https://www.purple-planet.com. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on the show and more, both are now @review_squared.2020-06-101h 12The Review SquaredDeconstructing The Review and Our First Year in CollegeOn our twelfth and final episode of the first season, the panel (minus John and Madison) talks about their favorite segments of the first season, the story of how this show came to be and our takeaways/advice from a year in college. We're thankful for your listening through the entire first season and we hope to resume regular weekly episodes live on Blaze Radio and wherever you get podcasts in September. Music: https://www.purple-planet.com. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on the show and more, both are now @review_squared.2020-05-031h 44The Review SquaredThis Is a Story All About How...On our eleventh episode, Madison was out. Gideon, John and Ethan discuss the controversies and debates of the USG-Tempe elections, Alejandro talks about the protests against stay at home orders in Michigan, and Haley gives a rundown of the highlights of the WNBA draft and Taiwan resuming pro baseball games without in-person crowds. Music: https://www.purple-planet.com. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on the show and more, both are now @review_squared.2020-04-1959 minThe Review SquaredDemocracy, Baseball and ASUOn our tenth episode, Madison, John and Alejandro were absent. Gideon talks about the mess and controversy of an election in Wisconsin happening in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ethan takes a look at creeping authoritarianism in the pandemic, and Haley discusses an MLB proposal to move baseball to Arizona and Florida, the Coyotes laying off much of their staff and new recruits for ASU sports. We once again recorded this show via Zoom and we apologize for any quality issues with the audio, we are working out how to make it better. Music: https://www.purple-planet.com...2020-04-1243 minThe Review SquaredA Rough Time ContinuesOn our ninth episode, we're talking about different aspects of the continuing pandemic. Madison, John and Ethan were absent. Gideon takes a look at the coronavirus response by state and local government in Arizona, Alejandro discusses his personal experience so far under social distancing, and Haley reminds us sports (sort of) are still happening and talks about practicing journalism in the pandemic. We once again recorded this show via Zoom and we apologize for any quality issues with the audio, we are working out how to make it better. Also, apologies for the later than usual upload, it has...2020-04-0959 minThe Review SquaredCheck, Response and Dua LipaOn our eighth episode, Madison, John and Haley were gone. Gideon talks about the federal stimulus checks, Ethan discusses the wider stimulus bill and the foreign policy decisions the U.S. is making during the pandemic, and Alejandro reviews Dua Lipa's new album Future Nostalgia. We once again recorded this show via Zoom and we apologize for any quality issues with the audio, we are working out how to make it better. Music: https://www.purple-planet.com. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on the show and more, both are now @review_squared.2020-03-3157 minThe Review SquaredThe Coronavirus Hits HomeOn our seventh regular episode, the panel (minus Madison and John) talks about how changes made because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) have been affecting them, students at ASU generally and some of the responses to it from wider society. We once again recorded this show via Zoom and we apologize for any quality issues with the audio, we are working out how to make it better. Also, a fact check, this is not longer than the 20,000 Questions episode, apologies for the error. Music: https://www.purple-planet.com. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on...2020-03-231h 23
The Review SquaredVoting Rights: A FightIn a special (& long) episode of The Breakdown, Gideon talks about the fight over voting rights in the U.S. and is joined by Ethan and Alejandro. This is the first time we recorded a show via Zoom and we apologize for any quality issues with the audio, we are working them out. We are sad to say that because the coronavirus (COVID-19) is shutting down lots of places across the country and at Arizona State, we were left with no choice but to suspend the Blaze Radio live show for the rest of the academic year. The Review...2020-03-191h 19
The Review Squared20,000 QuestionsIn our first podcast exclusive episode, the panel took a break from our normal routine to do an extended version of Dorm Dispatches. John and Ethan were away as we talked about ourselves and gave hot takes mostly based off of some questions Haley and Gideon put together. This episode aired live on Periscope Monday night (3/2) and the video is on our Twitter. Normally, The Review airs live on blazeradioonline.com every Friday at 8pm MST. Regular episodes will resume in two weeks, on Friday 3/20. Announcement: watch out for a podcast exclusive episode of The Breakdown talking about voting...2020-03-031h 26The Review SquaredThe Review Feb. 28th 2020On our sixth episode, Madison and Ethan were out, and chaos was in! We had not one, not two, but four guest panelists walk in. For our stories this week: Gideon updates us on coronavirus (producer's note and correction: the experts were dead wrong at the time, wear a mask!), John talks about crime on the Chicago public transit system, Alejandro discusses Lady Gaga's new music, and Haley continues her muti-week analysis into each division of Major League Baseball with the NL Central. Special thanks to Elsa Hortareas, Spencer McClure, Kirsten Dorman and Christopher Weddigen for being our last...2020-02-2954 minThe Review SquaredThe Review Feb. 21st 2020On our fifth episode, Gideon discusses a bill in the Arizona Legislature that would make it harder for transgender women to participate in school athletics, Madison talks about how this year is on track to be the hottest on record, Ethan analyses the Iranian parliamentary elections and US-Iran relationship, John recounts his experience covering a Donald Trump rally for Blaze News, Alejandro discusses The Farewell and diversity in film, and Haley continues her muti-week analysis into each division of Major League Baseball with the AL West. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on the...2020-02-2456 minThe Review SquaredThe Review Season 1 PromoOur initial promo for Blaze Radio got rejected, but after addressing their complaints we tried again. This is what came of it. Enjoy.2020-02-2100 minThe Review SquaredThe Review Feb. 14th 2020On our fourth episode, Haley and John are absent. As for everyone else: the whole panel talks about Valentine's Day, Gideon explains the media and political elite response in Kenya to the recent death of former President Daniel arap Moi, Madison talks about floral waste and coral reef damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, Ethan explains the ceasefire in Afghanistan that may lead to a U.S. troop withdrawal, and Alejandro discusses musicians tackling anxiety in their music. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on the show and more, both are now @review...2020-02-1656 minThe Review SquaredThe Review Feb. 7th 2020On our third episode (and Madison's debut episode!), Gideon talks about the fight over rideshare fees at Sky Harbor, Madison shares some bright news on carbon emissions, Ethan does a primer on the current situations in Syria and Venezuela, John discusses the fallout of a recent Gayle King interview question about Kobe Bryant, Alejandro talks about journalism being owned by businesses that are not interested in journalism, and Haley starts her muti-week analysis into each division of Major League Baseball. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on the show and more, both are now...2020-02-1052 minThe Review SquaredThe Review Jan. 24th 2020On our premiere episode, John gives a rundown of the headlines of the day, the panel talks about some ASU stories and a little bit about their own lives, Gideon talks about the growing controversy around sex education in Arizona, Ethan catches us up on international news, Alejandro brings everyone to speed on the turmoil around the Grammys and Haley runs through some of the biggest sports stories of the week. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for updates on the show and more, both are now @review_squared.2020-01-2549 min