The With Jay Burke Show

70. How Curiosity Ended the Search for the Most Mysterious Song on the Internet

In the ’80s, an unnamed song recorded off a German radio show vanished into obscurity—only to resurface decades later and spark one of the internet’s most captivating mysteries.
 
Join us as we dive into the story of The Most Mysterious Song on the Internet, exploring how it drew a community of online sleuths together in a relentless search. From wild theories to an unexpected breakthrough, discover how human curiosity ultimately solved a mystery that felt destined to remain unsolved.
 
Further Exploration:
Curiosity Ends the Search for The Most Mysterious Song on the Internet - From A View From the Top of the World Substack
The Most Mysterious Song on the Internet - Tales From the Internet
 
 

69. What if Life Has No Meaning? What if That’s the Best Part?

In this episode, I sit down with Joe C., a chemistry teacher by day and existentialism junkie by night, to dive deep into the mind-bending world of Sartre, Kierkegaard, and what it really means to live with freedom and anxiety hanging over our heads. We break down the whole existential package—freedom, choice, and that constant, nagging search for meaning—especially in a world that feels more chaotic with every passing day.
But it’s not just all highbrow philosophy. We get personal, swapping stories about fatherhood, teaching, and how those big, abstract ideas show up in the most real parts of life. We explore how being a parent shapes your perspective on freedom, and how navigating the chaos of the classroom often feels like a mini-existential crisis in itself.
Whether you’ve gone down the existential rabbit hole before or you’re just curious about what it all means, this episode will hit home. It’s about finding clarity in the mess of everyday life, and rethinking what it really means to live on your own terms.
 
Further Exploration:
Joe C. - The Story of...Podcast
Click the link and check out Joe's podcast: The Story Of...
The Story of... Twitter Page
The Story of...Game Changing Inventions (w/Jay Burke)
 

68. Presidential Power and Myths: Cypher, The Cynical Historian's Take on America's Biggest Misconceptions

In this episode, Jay is joined by Cypher, the creator of The Cynical Historian YouTube channel, to debunk some of the biggest myths surrounding U.S. presidents. From George Washington to Abraham Lincoln, Cypher unpacks the truth behind legendary misconceptions that have shaped the American view of the presidency.
They explore myths like Washington’s supposed uncontroversial presidency, Lincoln’s role as the “Great Emancipator,” and the common belief that debates like the 1960 Kennedy-Nixon face-off changed election outcomes. Cypher also sheds light on how myths about presidential power, control over the economy, and war decisions have been misunderstood over time.
Tune in for a candid, eye-opening discussion about history’s messy truths and the stories we tell about those who’ve held the highest office in the land
 
Further Exploration:
Check out the Youtube channel - The Cynical Historian 
Join The Cynical Historian on Patreon
Check out his Twitter page here
Check out his Twitch page here
Check out his Discord here

The Untitled Project 2025 Podcast: Ep. 4. The Reckoning: Project 2025's Legacy and Fallout

In the gripping finale of The Untitled Project 2025 Podcast, hosts Jay Burke (The With Jay Burke Show), Brandon (FDR’s Wheelchair), Smith (The Story Of...Podcast), unpack the long-term costs of the conservative blueprint that could reshape America. From dismantling the Department of Education to expanding the death penalty, our panel dives deep into the broader social, legal, and economic ramifications of Project 2025. We explore the potential impacts on marginalized communities, law enforcement, public education, and the role of federal oversight in securing civil rights. With critical insights and candid reflections, we close this series by asking: What kind of future does Project 2025 really hold for America? Tune in for a thought-provoking conclusion to our deep dive into the most polarizing agenda in modern governance.
 
Show Notes:01:13 – Project 2025: An OverviewA concise overview of Project 2025, its origins, and the vision for reshaping federal government functions.
02:26 – The Long-Term Costs of Project 2025Our hosts dive into the broader societal, legal, and economic impacts of Project 2025, focusing on how it may affect education, civil rights, and governmental structures.
37:14 – Milton Friedman and the Legacy of School ChoiceA deep dive into Milton Friedman’s enduring influence on education policy and how Project 2025 seeks to advance school choice and privatization.
41:55 – Public Service Loan Forgiveness and Education DebtA discussion on the proposed elimination of Public Service Loan Forgiveness and its potential consequences for public sector workers and students.
55:45 – Project 2025: Law Enforcement and Legal SystemsAn analysis of how Project 2025 proposes to change law enforcement and the legal landscape, with a focus on the dismantling of federal agencies and harsher sentencing laws.
01:15:50 – The Problem with Too Many WritersA humorous reflection on the logistical challenges of coordinating this multi-part series, particularly with so many voices contributing.
01:17:40 – Impact on Workers' RightsA critical look at how deregulation and other aspects of Project 2025 could erode workers' rights and labor protections.
01:31:16 – Agenda 47: Trump's PlaybookA final discussion tying Trump’s Agenda 47 to the broader objectives of Project 2025 and what it means for the future of American politics.
 
Further Exploration:
Project 2025 The Presidential Transition Project - Mandate for Leadership
American Civil Liberties Union - Project 2025 Explained
The Heritage Foundation - Project 2025
Democracy Forward - The People's Guide to Project 2025
The Center For American Progress - Project 2025: Exposing the Far Right Assault on America
I read the full 900-page Project 2025 manifesto – here’s why it matters, Rachel Leingang, The Guardian

Untitled Project 2025 Podcast: From Roe to Russia - Populism, Fascism, and the Global Impact of Project 2025

In the Penultimate episode of The Untitled Project 2025 Podcast, hosts Jay Burke (The With Jay Burke Show), Brandon (FDR’s Wheelchair), Smith (The Story Of...Podcast), and Mr. Beat from the YouTube channel of the same name,  dissect the far-reaching implications of Project 2025—the conservative initiative poised to reshape the U.S. federal government. The conversation navigates the project’s ideological roots, connections to movements like the Christian Right, and the ripple effects it could have on democracy both domestically and abroad.
From the overturning of Roe v. Wade to the strange dynamics of U.S. foreign policy toward Russia and China, the panel explores how populist rhetoric, nationalism, and shifting political norms are reshaping global alliances. They draw parallels between American populism and the rise of far-right movements across Europe, including Germany’s AfD.
Is Project 2025 just another partisan strategy—or a prelude to a larger shift in global governance? What lessons can history teach us about the rise of strongmen and the erosion of democratic institutions? Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the political tides reshaping the future.
Show Notes:
00:00 – Introduction & Hosts and Overview of The Untitled Project 2025 Podcast
Jay introduces the hosts—Smith, Mr. Beat, and Brandon—and provides a high-level overview of Project 2025, discussing its goals, origins, and the conservative agenda to reshape U.S. governance.
03:09 – Debate on Project 2025's Impact and Global ReactionsThe conversation shifts to the potential domestic and international repercussions of Project 2025. The hosts explore U.S. foreign policy, military strategy, and ideological inconsistencies toward Russia and China, as well as voter sentiments and historical parallels.
41:13 – Racism & Immigration in Europe & The Role of Nationalism and ReligionThe panel discusses the intersection of immigration, racism, and nationalism in Europe, comparing it with similar issues in the U.S. They explore how religion plays a role in shaping political ideologies on both continents.
53:21 – Populism and Political ShiftsThe conversation dives into the rise of populism, its potential to breed authoritarianism, and how economic instability fuels these political shifts. Comparisons are drawn between leaders like Trump and Bolsonaro and their impact on democratic institutions.
01:13:13 – The Power Dynamics of the SenateA deep dive into the power structures in the U.S. Senate and the influence of key political figures like Mitch McConnell. The discussion also touches on the role of the Supreme Court and the long-term impact of judicial appointments.
01:32:48 – The Legacy of 9/11 and Its ImpactThe episode concludes with reflections on 9/11's lasting impact on U.S. foreign policy and governance, and how it continues to shape national security priorities and political discourse.
 
 
Further Exploration:
Project 2025 The Presidential Transition Project - Mandate for Leadership
American Civil Liberties Union - Project 2025 Explained
The Heritage Foundation - Project 2025
Democracy Forward - The People's Guide to Project 2025
The Center For American Progress - Project 2025: Exposing the Far Right Assault on America
I read the full 900-page Project 2025 manifesto – here’s why it matters, Rachel Leingang, The Guardian

Untitled Project 2025 Podcast: Ep. 2: Project 2025 in Action – From Blueprint to Battlefield

In Episode 2 of The Untitled Project 2025 Podcast, hosts Jason, Brandon, and Mr. Beat move from theory to action, exploring how the principles behind Project 2025 could reshape the U.S. government. This episode dives into the implications of the proposed Schedule F, which aims to overhaul federal employment protections, and the potential revival of the Spoils System.
Recorded the week after the Democratic National Convention, Mr. Beat shares his firsthand experience from the DNC, offering insights into the event’s atmosphere and discussions surrounding Project 2025. The conversation also traces the historical rise of the Christian right in American politics and examines the influence of think tanks like the Heritage Foundation in crafting conservative policy agendas.
Whether you’re new to the topic or looking for a deeper understanding of how Project 2025 could shape America’s future, this episode provides a balanced and detailed analysis of the evolving political landscape.
 
Show Notes: The Untitled Project 2025 Podcast - Episode 2
00:00 - IntroductionThe episode kicks off with a reflection on societal challenges and sets the stage for an in-depth discussion on the latest developments surrounding Project 2025.
01:12 - Unpacking Project 2025: From Theory to ActionJason, Brandon, and Mr. Beat explore how the principles of Project 2025 could translate into government actions, focusing on the transition from policy ideas to implementation.
02:17 - Inside the Democratic National ConventionMr. Beat shares firsthand insights from his experience at the Democratic National Convention, discussing the atmosphere, key moments, and the mention of Project 2025 by various speakers.
45:15 - The Spoils System and Civil Service ReformThe hosts delve into the historical context of the Spoils System and its potential revival through Project 2025's proposed Schedule F, which could reshape federal employment protections.
46:27 - The Rise of the Christian RightJason and the hosts discuss the historical rise of the Christian right in American politics, tracing its influence from the 1980s to its role in shaping the policies within Project 2025.
01:03:12 - Think Tanks and Political InfluenceThe conversation shifts to the role of think tanks like the Heritage Foundation in shaping policy agendas, comparing their past influence with their involvement in Project 2025.
 
Further Exploration:
Project 2025 The Presidential Transition Project - Mandate for Leadership
American Civil Liberties Union - Project 2025 Explained
The Heritage Foundation - Project 2025
Democracy Forward - The People's Guide to Project 2025
The Center For American Progress - Project 2025: Exposing the Far Right Assault on America
I read the full 900-page Project 2025 manifesto – here’s why it matters, Rachel Leingang, The Guardian

Untitled Project 2025 Podcast Ep. 1: Tracing the Path to Project 2025: What Led Us Here?

In the inaugural episode of the "Untitled Project 2025 Podcast," hosts Jay Burke (The With Jay Burke Show), Brandon from FDR’s Wheelchair, Smith from The Story Of Podcast, and Mr. Beat from the YouTube channel of the same name, dive deep into the complex web of Project 2025.
This educational series aims to break down the nearly 900-page document that lays out a roadmap for the next conservative administration in the U.S. government. The episode explores the main tenets of the project, including its focus on implementing Unitary Executive Theory, restructuring federal agencies, and the potential impact on American democracy and governance.
From the influence of think tanks like the Heritage Foundation to the implications of using the Insurrection Act, the hosts dissect the historical context and contemporary challenges that Project 2025 poses. Whether you're new to the topic or well-versed in political discourse, this episode provides a balanced, in-depth look into what could shape the future of the American political landscape.
 
Show Notes: Untitled Project 2025 Podcast - Episode 1
00:00 - Introduction01:14 - Project 2025: Unveiling the Political BlueprintAn overview of Project 2025, its origins, and the Heritage Foundation's role, exploring its potential impact on American governance and democracy.
39:15 - The Complexities of Immigration PoliciesThe hosts discuss the history of U.S. immigration policies, Project 2025’s focus on stricter measures, and the effects on various sectors.
01:11:13 - Understanding the Broad Powers of Section 253A look into Section 253 of the Insurrection Act, discussing its implications for executive power and civil liberties.
01:17:16 - The Rise of Populism and Economic InequalityAn analysis of the resurgence of populism and economic inequality, and how Project 2025 seeks to reshape governance through a conservative lens.
 
 
Further Exploration:
Project 2025 The Presidential Transition Project - Mandate for Leadership
American Civil Liberties Union - Project 2025 Explained
The Heritage Foundation - Project 2025
Democracy Forward - The People's Guide to Project 2025
The Center For American Progress - Project 2025: Exposing the Far Right Assault on America
I read the full 900-page Project 2025 manifesto – here’s why it matters, Rachel Leingang, The Guardian

63. How 1968 Changed America—and Why We’re Still Feeling It in 2024 with Mr. Beat & Smith

In this episode, we’re diving headfirst into one of the most chaotic, game-changing years in American history—1968. I’m joined by Mr. Beat, historian and YouTuber, along with fellow podcast host Mr. Smith, as we unpack the seismic events that rocked this year. From the Vietnam War and the explosion of anti-war protests, to the heartbreaking assassinations of MLK and Robert F. Kennedy, we explore it all.
We dig into Lyndon B. Johnson’s shock decision to step aside, the rise of civil rights movements, and how moments like the Tet Offensive, broadcasted into living rooms across America, completely shifted public perception. We also get into the Kerner Commission report, and how the racial divides of 1968 still hit hard today. Buckle up—this is a deep dive into a year that forever changed America’s course
 
Further Exploration:
Mr. Beat
You can find his Youtube here. 
His music here.  
He also has several books! The Power of Our Supreme Court and The Ultimate American Presidential Election Book: Every Presidential Election in American History. 
You can find Mr. Beat's Website here
Smith - The Story of...Podcast
Click the link and check out Danny's podcast: The Story Of...
The Story of... Twitter Page
The Story of...Game Changing Inventions (w/Jay Burke)
 

62. Is Faith Greater than Religion? A Thoughtful Conversation with The Beebs

Humans crave structure—it’s practically hardwired into us. But what happens when that structure starts getting in the way of the message?
 
In this episode, I’m joined by Beebs from the Finding Your Way podcast, and we dive headfirst into some big questions: Is faith more important than religion? Can belief exist outside the usual frameworks? Through a mix of humor, personal stories, and real talk, we explore how faith can guide us, ground us, and give meaning in an increasingly chaotic world. Whether you’re spiritual, religious, or just curious, we’re breaking down how belief can go beyond doctrine and become a personal journey. Join us as we explore what faith really means in modern life.
 
Further Information:
Check out Finding Your Way with the Beeb: here.
Follow The Beeb on Twitter

61. Is Free Will Bull$hit? The Truth About Choice

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the age-old debate surrounding free will. Are we truly the captains of our own fate, or are our choices shaped by a complex web of unseen forces—biology, psychology, social norms, and even brain chemistry?
We explore these questions by analyzing philosophical theories from thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Immanuel Kant, while also delving into scientific insights that challenge our traditional understanding of human agency. Through historical and religious examples, including the tale of Judas Iscariot and the legal implications of free will, we confront the very essence of what it means to make decisions in an increasingly deterministic world. Join us as we unpack the mystery of whether free will is real or simply an illusion.
In other words, is free will bullshit?
Further Information:
Check out these videos used in the podcast:
Sartre on Bad Faith - The School of Life
Why We Experience An Existential Crisis - The Philosophy of Jean-Paul Sartre - The Pursuit of Wonder
Neuroscientist: Free Will Is An Illusion | Robert Sapolsky - Light Watkins
Free Will as an emergent abstraction - Brett Hall