The West Wing Thing
Each week hosts Dave Anthony and Josh Olson watch and then discuss an episode of The West Wing. And when you're done, join us on our new podcast, The Audit on The Lever
S8 E1 · Tue, October 18, 2022
Come listen to The Audit
The West Wing Thing is finished! Come check out our new thing, The Audit! https://the.levernews.com/podcasts/#the-audit
S8 E1 · Thu, September 22, 2022
Special Appendix Episode - What's the deal with Louise Mensch? w/Special Guest Arthur Tiersky
Enough people asked us for the whole story, so here it is - Josh & Dave's full history with Vladimir Putin's most fearsome foe.
S7 E25 · Wed, August 31, 2022
THE GRAND FINALE w/Very Special Guest Briahna Joy Gray
We did it. We finished it, and we're not dead.
S7 E24 · Mon, August 29, 2022
It's finally here!
The one you've been waiting for! Will it live up to your expectations?
S7 E23 · Tue, August 23, 2022
Institutional Memory w/Special Guests Nima Shirazi & Adam Johnson from Citations Needed
With only one episode left to go, the boys are joined by the hosts of one of the very great Citations Needed to enjoy the cast's bout with senior-itis. Will CJ stay on at the White House or go on to make a fortune helping a billionaire whitewash his reputation? And will he or won't he? Time is running out for Bartlett to pardon Toby. Plus - Havinq vanquished the K-Hive, we turn our attention to Ana Kasparian.
S7 E22 · Mon, August 22, 2022
Oops
Uh oh
S7 E21 · Wed, August 17, 2022
The Last Hurrah w/Special Guests Pete D'Alesandro & David Sirota
Pete & Dave team up to join Josh & Dave as they marvel at one of the most West Wingy moments in the history of The West Wing. Plus - Is there life after Wang? All is revealed!
S7 E20 · Mon, August 15, 2022
A Very Special Thing w/Very Special Wil Anderson
They did it. Those crazy bastards. They went and did it. One time and one time only... The Newsroom
S7 E19 · Mon, August 08, 2022
Transition w/Special Guest Wil Anderson
Wil Anderson comes back to wish us well, only to discover America has rendered all of his jokes moot.
S7 E18 · Mon, August 01, 2022
Requiem w/Special Guests Vida & Trevor from Champagne Sharks
It's the beginning of the new Santos administration, and being a good Democrat, he's lining his administration with Republicans. Our friends T&V make swing by to tell Josh & Dave how much they'll miss them, and we force them to stay and watch an episode of The West Wing. We are bad people.
S7 E16 · Mon, July 25, 2022
Election Day Parts 1&2 w/Special Guest Katie Halper
Katie Halper returns to say adios to Josh and Dave and endure not just one but TWO godawful seventh season episodes. Josh & Donna finally do the deed, Leo croaks, and Santos wins the presidential election, and it's STILL awful.
S7 E15 · Mon, July 18, 2022
Welcome To Wherever You Are w/Special Guest Luke Savage & a cameo from Blaire Erskine
We continue to wind down with one more visit from our old friend Luke Savage to discuss the dumbest scene ever on The West Wing and to say goodbye to us forever. Also, our NEW friend Blaire Erskine stops by to tell us about her experience discovering the most wonderful people on social media, the K-Hive!
S7 E14 · Wed, June 29, 2022
Two Weeks Out w/Special Guest Jared Yates Sexton
Not sure if you heard, but the Supreme Court shot down Roe last week, so we asked our friend Jared to drop by and talk about whether or not that will have any meaningful impact. And since we're awful, we made him watch another episode of The West Wing. Who's got the briefcase?
S7 E13 · Mon, June 27, 2022
The Cold w/Special Guest Tom Sexton
Our old pal Tom Sexton stops by to say a find farewell, and we force him to watch another episode of the fucking West Wing. This is the one where Donna finallty acts on all those years of abuse and misogyny and.... for fuck's sake, are you kidding? Hey, did you hear about Roe? That happened after we recorded this. Sorry.
S7 E12 · Mon, June 20, 2022
Duck and Cover w/Special Guest Gareth Reynolds
Will the California nuclear power plant blow up, taking most of Southern California with it? Or will the problem just go away? Who could possibly guess? Also, Josh challenges Dan Pfeiffer to a steel cage wrestling match.
S7 E11 · Mon, May 30, 2022
Internal Displacement w/Special Guest Ashley Stevens
Someone or other is having an affair or something, and there's a nuclear war brewing between China and Russia or somesuch shit... Also, even after all those farewell tears AND a new Diesel Boots song... we have a brand new Psaki Bomb. How is this even possible!
S7 E10 · Mon, May 23, 2022
Running Mates w/Special Guest Lisa Curry
Lisa Curry joins Josh and Dave to bag on Bill Maher, say goodbye to Jen Psaki, and watch an episode of The West Wing with Josh. BECAUSE DAVE FUCKING FORGOT TO DO HIS HOMEWORK!
S7 E9 · Mon, May 16, 2022
The Wedding w/Special Guest Will Menaker
The West Wing finally steps up and challenges Seinfeld - this week's episode is a show about nothing. But don't worry - Will Menaker is here to help us fill the void.
S7 E8 · Mon, May 09, 2022
Undecideds w/Special Guests Trevor & Vida from Champagne Sharks
After six and a half seasons, the entirely white writers of the West Wing FINALLY do an episode that touches on racial issues, and it ROCKS even harder than you'd expect it to.
S7 E7 · Mon, May 02, 2022
The Debate w/Special Guest Matt Christman
It's the most incredible hour of television you've ever seen! This week.... the legendary LIVE DEBATE. We hate to break it to you... it's not good.
Bonus · Mon, April 25, 2022
Trial of the Chicago 7 w/Special Guest Bilge Ebiri
It's our special Trial of the Chicago 7 episode, in whichthe great film critic Bilge Ebiri joins us to battle for the streets of Chicago and the hearts and minds of liberals. Plus, Danny Bessner stops by to talk about being an eyewitness to history.
S7 E6 · Mon, April 18, 2022
The Al Smith Dinner w/Special Guest Lisa Curry
It's All Abortion All The Time! as the West Wing gang takes on America's ickiest issue. The suspense is killing us! Who will win the election? The vaguely pro-choice Democrat, or the vaguely pro-choice Republican?
S7 E5 · Mon, April 11, 2022
Here Today w/Special Guest Pete D'Alessandro
At long last! Tobey stands revealed! Heads must roll! We're joined by our pal Pete D'Allessandro to discuss the most notorious episode in West Wing history.
S7 E4 · Mon, April 04, 2022
The Leak
In an effort to shine a light on stories the mainstream media avoids, Josh and Dave discuss the recent Academy Awards, and a thing that happened at them. Plus - did not see this coming - The West Wing comes down on the wrong side of Intelligent Design. Also - Is this the final Psaki Bomb?????
S7 E3 · Mon, March 28, 2022
Message of the Week w/Special Guest Alex Fumero
Once again, we dive into the surreal universe where Republicans are hard to beat in California, and Democrats have a lock on the Latino vote.
S7 E2 · Mon, March 21, 2022
Mommy Problem w/Special Guests Derek Davison & Daniel Bessner of American Prestige
This week's episode goes out with love to Michael McFaul, who is very much not worse than Hitler.
S7 E1 · Mon, March 14, 2022
The Ticket w/Special Guest Kath Barbadoro
At long last, we begin the dreaded FINAL SEASON of The West Wing. Will Josh & Dave make it across the finish line? Only time will tell.
S6 E28 · Mon, March 07, 2022
The Hillary Clinton Master Class Grand Finale w/Special Guests Briahna Joy Gray and Katie Halper
Briana and Katie join Josh and Dave to wrap up The Hillary Thing by watching Hillary and Huma discuss the meaning of life. Plus: That amazing victory speech! Plus plus: Lee Camp stops by to talk about the demise of RT, and how opposing war makes you a Commie.
S6 E27 · Mon, February 28, 2022
The Hillary Clinton Master Class Part 4 w/Special Guests Ashley Stevens & Meagan Day
This week, it's all about sexism and ambition. Ashley Stevens & Meagan Day join us as Hillary explains how she managed to persevere in the face of the horrific misogyny of sexist pigs like Bernie Sanders. Also, some war stuff, more COVID ranting, and Josh's head explodes.
S6 E26 · Mon, February 21, 2022
The Hillary Clinton Master Class Part 3 w/special guests Tom Sexton & Aaron Thorpe
Josh & Dave are joined by their pals from The Trillbillies Workers' Party to learn negotiation skills from the master herself. Plus, Shanti Singh stops by to breakdown the school board recall in San Francisco, and to help us prove that Lee Fang is an idiot.
S6 E25 · Mon, February 14, 2022
The Hillary Clinton Master Class Part 2 w/special guests The Reply Guys
Julia Claire & Kate Willett join Josh & Dave as Hillary explains public speaking and how to handle hecklers.
S6 E24 · Mon, February 07, 2022
The Hillary Clinton Master Class Part 1 w/special guests Amber A'Lee Frost and Catherine Liu
The first of our multi-part examination of Hillary Clinton's version of If I Did It. We really will do anything to avoid going back to The West Wing.
S6 E23 · Mon, January 31, 2022
Meet our free floating agent of chaos!
Dave and Josh aren't emotionaly there yet, so season 7 isn't happening this week. Instead, Brian Siano - our amazing research dude in Philly - pops by for a visit. Plus, fun with the Supreme Court!
S6 E22 · Mon, January 24, 2022
2162 Votes w/Special Guest Walker Bragman
SIX SEASONS DOWN! We're almost there, folks. Walker Bragman joins us to dissect the thrilling climax to the DNC storyline. Who will the Democratic presidential nominee be?
S6 E21 · Mon, January 17, 2022
Things ACTUALLY Fall Apart w/Special Guest Kate Willett
Impossible space shuttle problems, decent Republicans, and the horrors of a contested Democratic convention. It's a very special science fiction episode of The West Wing!
S6 E21 · Mon, January 17, 2022
Things Fall Apart w/Special Guest Kate Willett
Impossible space shuttle problems, decent Republicans, and the horrors of a contested Democratic convention. It's a very special science fiction episode of The West Wing!
S6 E20 · Mon, January 10, 2022
In God We Trust w/Special Guest James Fritz
Comedian James Fritz joins Josh and Dave to talk about God, children, ice cream, and the awesome January 6 celebration, with a special appearance by West Wing superfan Lin-Manuel Miranda. Plus, an interview with social epidemiologist Justin Feldman about his terrific piece on the Biden administration and Covid, which you can read here: https://jmfeldman.medium.com/a-year-in-how-has-biden-done-on-pandemic-response-88452c696f2
S6 E19 · Mon, January 03, 2022
Ninety Miles Away w/Special Guest Gareth Reynolds
Cuba Libre! Soft core 90s porn! Brian Dennehy! All this, AND we take on the Don't Look Up non-controversy.
S6 E18 · Mon, December 27, 2021
La Palabra w/Special Guest Eddie Pepitone
We force the great comedian Eddie Pepitone to watch his first ever episode of your favorite show, then laugh at his howls of anguish. Plus - did we just hear the stupidest line of dialogue ever spoken on The West Wing?
S6 E17 · Mon, December 20, 2021
A Good Day w/Special Guest Matt Stoller
Matt Stoller returns to discuss THE most important issue facing mankind today. We're talking about the deficit, of course. Here's Matt's piece on the FDA creep responsible for the rapid test shortage: https://mattstoller.substack.com/p/the-mustached-villain-behind-the
S6 E16 · Mon, December 13, 2021
Drought Conditions w/Special Guest Jennifer Briney
Jen Briney from Congressional Dish joins us to witness a truly massive return to Sorkinian misogyny on this week's episode. Plus, Josh cries while reading his acceptance speech.
S6 E16 · Mon, December 06, 2021
Freedonia
After weeks of running away from the job, Josh and Dave are back to discuss the latest episode of the show that must not be named.
Bonus · Wed, December 01, 2021
Special mini Crooked Media episode w/Special Guest Briahna Joy Gray
We HAD to do it - Briahna Joy Gray joins us for a deep dive into Crooked Media's very weird West Wing video. If you must see it, here's the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2eHe0GHC_6c
Bonus · Mon, November 22, 2021
Mayor Pete Doc special w/Special Guest Luke Savage, plus a Special Appearance from Alex Press
Josh and Luke did it so you - and Dave - don't have to. We watched the entire Mayor Pete documentary. We walk Dave through every horrifying moment. Plus, Alex Press stops by to give us an update on the IATSE vote.
Bonus · Mon, November 15, 2021
Hiatus!
No show this week, kiddies, but we'll be back in seven days with a very special one. In the meantime, take a walk down Memory Lane with some of Diesel Boots' greatest WWT hits... plus - something new! Even when we're giving you nuthin', we give you sumthin'!
S6 E14 · Mon, November 08, 2021
The Wake Up Call w/Special Guest Amber A'Lee Frost
We're joined by Chapo Trap House's Amber A'Lee Frost to discuss the Cold War, Belarus, sexy ladies, and the joy of feeding Skittles to cows.
S6 E13 · Mon, November 01, 2021
King Corn w/Special Guest Pete D'Alessandro
The best goddam Pete in Democratic politics returns to discuss Iowa, corn, and the difference between Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Plus: Everyone gets horny. Also: Is Matt Yglesias the stupidest human being to ever make a nickel as a pundit? Seriously - is there something wrong with his fucking brain?
S6 E12 · Mon, October 25, 2021
365 Days w/Special Guest Jared Yates Sexton
We're joined by recovering West Wing fan Jared Sexton to discuss what may be the Rosetta Stone of West Wing episodes. Plus, we learn that not all American contractors in Latin America work for the CIA. America is good!
S6 E11 · Mon, October 18, 2021
Opposition Research w/Special Guest Tom Sexton
In which we discover that no one on the West Wing writing staff knows what an activist is. Plus - Dave comes up with the world's greatest podcast.
S6 E10 · Mon, October 11, 2021
Faith Based Initiative
Brand new West Wing writer Bradley Whitford takes on the third rail of American politics - gay marriage.
S6 E9 · Mon, October 04, 2021
Impact Winter w/Special Guest Prof. Adolph Reed
The great Prof. Adolph joins us to do something no other guest has done... or, to be precise, to NOT do something every other guest has done. Also - our old pal Josh Androsky stops by to explain the LA City Council's unprecedented attack on democracy, and what you can do to stop it. To help out in LA: https://www.hugo2022.com Find your councilmember: https://neighborhoodinfo.lacity.org LA Council president Martinez: https://www.nury-martinez.com
S6 E8 · Mon, September 27, 2021
In The Room w/Special Guest Meagan Day
Penn & Teller join the West Wing kids to send a powerful message about the horrors of flag burning. Plus - THREE Psaki Bombs!
S6 E7 · Mon, September 20, 2021
A Change Is Gonna Come w/Special Guest Daniel Bessner
The West Wing kids accidentally cause an international incident between Taiwan and the Chinese, and our pal Daniel Bessner explains it all to us.
S6 E6 · Mon, September 13, 2021
The Dover Test
Weirdest episode ever? Might just be. Matt Santos wins one for the insurance industry, and Leo defends corporate malfeasance in India. Or something like that.
S6 E4 · Mon, September 06, 2021
The Hubbert Peak w/Special Guest Briahna Joy Gray
We made Briahna Joy Gray apologize for killing Roe V Wade, then we punished her by making her watch a super annoying episode of The West Wing. And that's saying something. Plus, the most adorable college love story ever, and some other stuff.
S6 E3 · Mon, August 30, 2021
Liftoff w/Special Guest Lee Camp
Lee Camp joins us to watch CJ's first day as the second most important human being on the planet.
S6 E2 · Mon, August 23, 2021
Third Day Story w/Special Guest Shanti Singh
Jed's solved the Middle East problem, but those pesky Republicans are standing in the way with some truly insane demands. Also, whither Leo?
S6 E1 · Mon, August 16, 2021
NSF THURMONT/THE BIRNAM WOOD w/Special Guest Abby Martin
We kick off the 6th season with this deep dive into The West Wing's Middle East solution with Abby Martin, and a special report on the California recall with Shanti Singh. Plus, Josh reads Vogue's amazing Jen Psaki profile to Dave.
S5 E22 · Mon, August 09, 2021
Season 5 wrap up W/Special Guest Prof. Richard D. Wolff
We felt bad abandoning you for a week, so it's an extra special one for you. We asked the great economist Professor Richard D. Wolff to check our homework on Talking Points, the dreaded NAFTA episode we covered a few weeks ago. We also got the real deal from our good friend Pete D'Alessandro, who was on the ground in Ohio for Nina Turner. Plus, a particularly annoying Psaki Bomb.
S5 E21 · Mon, July 26, 2021
Gaza & Memorial Day w/Special Guest Derek Davison
It's a two part season finale, as the West Wing gang decides it's time to get serious and fix Israel!
S5 E20 · Mon, July 19, 2021
No Exit
No exit, indeed. The West Wing kids are locked up in a zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz..... Nothing happens. So Josh and Dave talk about some other shit, including the depraved orgy known as the White House Correspondents Dinner. Don't worry, folks - next week's will make up for this shit show.
S5 E19 · Mon, July 12, 2021
Talking Points
The West Wing kids take on NAFTA, ten years after it happened. And STILL manage to get it wrong. Plus, Hunter Biden's shitty art.
S5 E18 · Mon, July 05, 2021
Good Things Happen In Philly w/Special Guest Susan Saxe
This was supposed to be about the episode titled "Access," but pretty much nothing happens in it, so we thought we'd celebrate some of the amazing stuff that's happening in Philadelphia with activist Susan Saxe, and talk about the amazing docuseries PHILLY D.A.
S5 E17 · Mon, June 28, 2021
The Supremes w/Special Guests Thomas Frank & Katie Halper
This is it, folks. West Wing episode one you've been waiting for. The most Bartlett-y solution ever. We had to bring in the big guns for this one, and we almost broke them. You can thank us for the grueling work we do by joining our Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/TheWestWingThing
Bonus · Mon, June 21, 2021
Vamping
This week, it’s all Thing, no Wing as Josh and Dave vamp for an hour. Screw you. The dog ate our homework.
S5 E16 · Mon, June 14, 2021
Eppur Si Muove w/Special Guest Savannah LaMaison
Muppets and the relationship between female sexual fantasies and genital stimulation. It doesn't get any better than this, folks!
S5 E15 · Mon, June 07, 2021
Full Disclosure w/Special Guest Pete D'Alessandro
This week, we zero in on an episode that gives us some fascinating insights into the very weird politics of West Wing writer and all around freak Lawrence O'Donnell as the West Wing gang takes on school vouchers.
S5 E14 · Mon, May 31, 2021
An Khe
Josh and Dave celebrate Memorial Day the Wanglord way. Leo learns a hard lesson about politics that every five year old already knew. Lots of yelling.
S5 E13 · Mon, May 24, 2021
The Warfare of Genghis Khan w/special guest Noah Kulwin
There's a new nuclear power in the world, and the West Wing kids have one day to figure out who it is as the show's slow transformation into 24 proceeds apace.
S5 E12 · Mon, May 17, 2021
Slow News Day w/Special Guest Marianne Williamson
2020 Presidential candidate Marianne Williamson joins us to discuss what is easily one of the most quintessential and pernicious episodes of The West Wing, the one where they go after Social Security. For more on Marianne's candidate summit, go here: https://www.candidatesummit.com
S5 E11 · Mon, May 10, 2021
The Benign Prerogative w/Special Guest Aaron Thorpe
Carcrash Johnson from the Trillbillies returns to help us survive a deep dive into the world of mandatory sentencing minimums and the tragic tale of a rich kid whose parents can't buy his way out of a drug sentence.
S5 E10 · Mon, May 03, 2021
The Stormy Present w/Special Guest Felix Biederman
This week's episode deals with a Saudi uprising, so who better to come on and scream in horror but Chapo Traphouse's own Felix Biederman?
S5 E9 · Mon, April 26, 2021
Abu el Banat w/Special Guests Katherine Krueger and Will Menaker
Just because it's a lousy episode of The West Wing doesn't mean you're not getting another great episode of The West Wing Thing! Our pals Will & Kath come back to help us dissect our favorite show, and to discuss their end of life plans. Special thanks to Nancy Pelosi for her amazing sacrifice. We talk a bit at the end about the Discourse Blog, a worker-owned co-op for culture and news from the left. Highly recommended. To subscribe, go here: discourseblog.com/subscribe
S5 E8 · Mon, April 19, 2021
Shutdown w/Special Guest Briahna Joy Gray and an appearance from Adam McKay
Briahna Joy Gray returns for an epic dissection of one of the weirder West Wing episodes. PLUS we're joined by Adam McKay to discuss the explosion of outrage over his comments about Adam Sorkin's political leanings. Call in sick to work today, folks - this one is packed to the gills with goodness! Bad Faith: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bad-faith/id1531192509 Death At The Wing: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/death-at-the-wing/id1558869948
S5 E7 · Mon, April 12, 2021
Separation of Powers w/Special Guest Tom Sexton
This is it, folks. This is the episode where The West Wing Thing pisses the shoe. AND a new Misogyny Rundown song from the great Diesel Boots. Plus - GET US THAT SUTTER SCRIPT!!!!
Bonus · Fri, April 09, 2021
Special bonus crossover episode - RUMBLE w/Michael & Us hosts Luke Savage & Will Sloan
Aaron Sorkin is this week's guest on Michael Moore's Rumble podcast, and it's so absolutely bonkers that we had to bring in Luke and Will to hold Dave down as he listens for the first time. Here's the Jamie Kennedy article referenced in this episode. https://www.thedailybeast.com/comedian-jamie-kennedy-on-how-he-ended-up-in-the-anti-abortion-propaganda-film-roe-v-wade
S5 E6 · Mon, April 05, 2021
Disaster Relief w/Special Guest Robin Marie Averbeck
Robin Marie Averbeck joins us to discuss porn, Airforce One's ability to transcend the laws of physics, Bruce Springsteen, and why women watch The West Wing. Dave gets real angry at one or two points.
S5 E5 · Mon, March 29, 2021
Constituency of One w/Special Guest Amy Westervelt
We're joined by journalist and podcaster Amy Westervelt to discuss the fact that coal is the only source of energy in the West Wing universe. Also, Josh Androsky stops by to discuss what's happening in Echo Park and how it ties into West Wing Brain. Many resources this week: Street Watch LA https://streetwatchla.com Groundgame LA https://www.groundgamela.org Selah https://www.selahnhc.org DSA https://www.dsausa.org NolympicsLA https://nolympicsla.com Knock LA https://knock-la.com https://www.curbed.com/2021/03/echo-park-homeless-camp-lapd.html
S5 E4 · Mon, March 22, 2021
Han w/Special Guest Daniel Bessner
Danny Bessner returns to discuss North Korea, lighting, and the dumbest thing Donna has ever said on The West Wing. Except not, apparently.
S5 E3 · Mon, March 15, 2021
Jefferson Lives w/Special Guest Rebecca Bitton
Josh and Dave are joined by Rebecca Bitton to make sense of the post-Sorkin, post-assassination, post-25th amendment, post kidnapping West Wing world.
S5 E2 · Mon, March 08, 2021
The Dogs Of War
Josh and Dave grapple with the realities of a Sorkin-less universe. Less misogyny, perhaps, but even more racism!
S5 E1 · Mon, March 01, 2021
7A WF 83429 w/Special Guest Aaron Maté
Aaron Maté joins us to usher in the new era of West Wing, as we greet our new overlords, and clean up the mess Aaron Sorkin left when he took off. And, of course, a new theme song from Diesel Boots!
S4 E23 · Mon, February 22, 2021
Twenty Five W/Special Guests Katie Halper & Matt Taibbi
We're joined by the hosts of the great Useful Idiots podcast to say goodby to Aaron Sorkin, as we discuss the Great Man's final episode of The West Wing. We also break down some fashion Don't, and discuss how to stalk and terrify women into marrying you.
S4 E22 · Mon, February 15, 2021
Commencement w/Special Guest Branko Marcetic
We're joined by Branko Marcetic to break down the penultimate Sorkin episode and talk about the very incredibly good relationship between the Bartlett administration and the press, and how it reflects the very incredible good relationship between the press and the Biden administration. Plus, stalking and misogyny and Chekhov's No Bottle. Here's the piece we discuss on the show: https://jacobinmag.com/2021/02/for-profit-cable-news-misinformation-trump-cnn
S4 E21 · Mon, February 08, 2021
Life On Mars w/Special guest David Sirota
Donna is perplexed by a bird, and we encounter some peak West Wing Brain as the great man's tenure winds down. Only two more Sorkin episodes!
S4 E20 · Mon, February 01, 2021
Evidence of Things Not Seen
Josh and Dave fly naked this week. Misogyny, stalkerish behavior, two thousand dollar checks, and Michael Meyers all make appearances.
S4 E19 · Mon, January 25, 2021
Angel Maintenance w/special guest Ashley Stevens
A brief chat about the slow news week we just had, then we dive into a white knuckle episode of The West Wing. Will everyone die in a fiery plane crash? Who could possibly guess how this episode turns out?
S4 E18 · Mon, January 18, 2021
Privateers w/Special Guest Tanya Turner
We're joined by the Trillbilly's Tanya Turner to discuss Aaron Sorkin's courage in pointing out that whistle blowers are terrible people.
S4 E17 · Mon, January 11, 2021
Red Haven's On Fire w/Special Guest Wyatt Cenac
Slow news week. Not much to cover. Wyatt stopped by to talk sports.
S4 E16 · Mon, January 04, 2021
The California 47th w/Special Guest Aaron Thorpe
The gang flies to Orange County to help Rob Lowe exit the show gracefully. Plus, FUCK THE FRENCH, AM I RIGHT? THOSE GODDAM COWARDS!!!!
S4 E15 · Mon, December 28, 2020
Inauguration Pt 2: Over There w/Special Guest Daniel Bessner
Daniel Bessner is back for Inauguration Part 2, as we dive deep, deep, deep into Aaron Sorkin's rewrite of Rwandan genocide.
S4 E14 · Mon, December 21, 2020
Inauguration Part 1 w/Special Guest Daniel Bessner
We're joined by Bernie Sanders' foreign policy advisor to explain why Aaron Sorkin's handling of the genocide in Rwanda is less brilliant than you might think. Plus - Jed Bartlet, Contra-lover!
S4 E13 · Mon, December 14, 2020
The Long Goodbye/Past Tense
In the middle of recording, a transporter accident sends Josh and Dave into a mirror universe where they find themselves hosts of The Star Trek Thing, a podcast in which Josh & Dave break down every episode of every Star Trek series and dissect them for their good politics. In this world, we're all still at brunch.
S4 E12 · Mon, December 07, 2020
Guns Not Butter w/Special Guest Rob Rousseau
The gang deals with an important foreign aid bill that will go nowhere, a situation with a soldier on foodstamps that will go nowhere, and the fact that voters are stupid, and only people who can read read the New York Times.
S4 E11 · Mon, November 30, 2020
Holy Night w/Nathan J. Robinson
Jewish gangsters! SATs! Israeli hardware stores AND the world famous, beloved Whiffenpoofs! Life doesn't get better than this. Here are the two articles Nathan wrote that we referenced in the show. https://www.currentaffairs.org/2019/03/the-obama-boys https://www.currentaffairs.org/2020/10/what-happens-in-the-west-wing/
S4 E10 · Sun, November 22, 2020
Arctic Radar W/Special Guest Amber A'Lee Frost
Heavy on the misogyny this week, plus Star Trek content, AND Josh does a reading of some hot and steamy West Wing fanfic. This week has everything!
S4 E9 · Mon, November 16, 2020
Swiss Diplomacy
The West Wing gangs yoks it up over how backwards and stupid everyone who's not white and American is. Also, Josh and Dave discuss how right and proper it is to wish death on anyone who lives in a state your candidate didn't win.
S4 E8 · Mon, November 09, 2020
Process Stories w/Special Guest Nando Vila
It's our first post-election episode, and we welcome the brave new world of bipartisanship and civility with... well, not gonna lie... another episode of The West Wing Thing. Nando Vila joins us to explain the few tiny things Aaron Sorkin doesn't quite understand about the coup in Venezuela, and boy, oh boy, is this one horny!
S4 E7 · Mon, November 02, 2020
Election Night w/Special Guest Briahna Joy Gray
One day before Election Day in America, it's Election Night on The West Wing. So we brought back West Wing hate-watching champ, the amazing Briahna Joy Gray to have our last vigorous political discussion before we all go back to brunch on Wednesday. All this AND a very special, one time only Election Day theme song from the great Diesel Boots! And, be sure to check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheWestWingThing
S4 E6 · Mon, October 26, 2020
Game On w/Special Guest Briahna Joy Gray
We swear on a stack of bibles, we only asked her to watch ONE episode! The great Briahna Joy Gray joins us to discuss the 114 episodes of West Wing she's watched in the last week, and to talk about Jeb Bartlett's final debate. Also, Star Trek is better than Star Wars. Also also! If you're so inclined, check out our new Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/TheWestWingThing Also also also! Check out our West Wing Thing Reunion Thing! https://vimeo.com/470708483
Bonus · Wed, October 21, 2020
West Wing Thing Reunion Thing Special Announcement!
Well, we had to do something, right? We went completely overboard with a special video presentation of our West Wing Thing Reunion Thing, with special guests Amber A'Lee Frost and Felix Biederman of Chapo Trap House. It's a massive chunk of entertainment AND the announcement of our Patreon. Here's the link to the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheWestWingThing And here's the link to the video: https://vimeo.com/470708483
S4 E4 · Mon, October 19, 2020
Debate Camp w/Special Guests Leslie Lee III & Jack Allison from Struggle Session
It's flashback time as the gang struggles with what to do with a right wing black guy who doesn't seem to actually exist. If you want to do something that matters, sign up and help Nithya Raman kick the Pelosi/Clinton - endorsed ass of David Ryu in LA CD 4. This is VERY important, folks! https://www.nithyaforthecity.com/signup
S4 E3 · Mon, October 12, 2020
The Red Mass w/Special Guest Trevor Beaulieu from Champagne Sharks
Now that America has, for the first time in history, assassinated a foreign official, what's next? Also, why don't people understand they owe Democrats their vote?
S4 E2 · Mon, October 05, 2020
College Kids w/Special Guest Virgil Texas
Bad Faith and Chapo Trap House's Virgil Texas joins us for some West Wing tax wonkery. Recorded as Trump entered Walter Reade. We take no responsibility for the events of the 10,000 news cycles that will have happened since then. All Hail President Pence! And be sure to check out Bad Faith, with Virgil and Briahna Joy Gray!
S4 E1 · Mon, September 28, 2020
20 Hours In America w/Special Guests Tarence Ray & Tom Sexton
It's the first episode of Aaron Sorkin's last season! New episodes! New theme song! New explosions of incoherent rage! Old guests! Josh & Dave paddle down the river of the 4th season premiere, and get jumped by Tom and Terence from The Trillbilly Workers Party.
S3 E20 · Mon, September 21, 2020
Posse Comitatus w/Special Guest Wil Anderson
It's our third season finale, we're joined by the brilliant and hilarious Wil Anderson, and all we can say is... Aaron Sorkin. Boy, I don’t know.
S3 E19 · Mon, September 14, 2020
We Killed Yamamoto w/Special Guest Katie Halper
The gang gets into a 24-style moral quandary as we force yet another person we admire tremendously to watch The West Wing with us. This is starting to feel abusive.
S3 E18 · Mon, September 07, 2020
The Black Vera Wanglord
The kids deal with the most devastating attack ad in the history of the world, and we learn more about CJ's inability to act normal around attractive men. Also, if you want to know what the real west wing staff makes, go here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/July-1-2020-Report-FINAL.pdf
S3 E17 · Mon, August 31, 2020
Enemies, Foreign and Domestic w/Special Guest Ashley Stevens
We introduce our guest, educator and activist Ashley Stevens, to the joys and horrors of The West Wing, with an episode about WMDs and FDR, and now we feel really bad.
S3 E16 · Mon, August 24, 2020
Stirred, plus a trip to the mailbag
After whipping through this dud of an episode, Josh and Dave hit the mailbag.
S3 E15 · Mon, August 17, 2020
The U.S. Poet Laureate w/Special Guest Rachel Larris
Professional Sorkin hater Rachel Larris joins us to talk about THAT episode. Our new theme song finally tells you the truth about us, and Josh's Joe Kennedy III rant closes out this very special episode of Josh And Dave Try To Get Canceled.
S3 E14 · Mon, August 10, 2020
Dead Irish Writers w/Special Guest Mary Kate O'Flanagan
Only Aaron Sorkin could write an episode of The West Wing about Ireland without including a single Irish character. We rectify that by talking to an actual leprechaun.
S3 E13 · Mon, August 03, 2020
Hartsfield’s Landing w/Special Guest Josh Androsky
Is it possible? A West Wing Thing without the Misogyny Rundown? Don't worry, though - the kids make it up with a stirring defense of NAFTA and some very weird pranks. Plus, Josh Androsky, Comms director for Nithya Raman, drops by and we force him to watch an episode. Because that's what we do to people we love. https://www.nithyaforthecity.com
S3 E12 · Mon, July 27, 2020
Night Five
Is it possible that this week's Misogyny Rundown is the worst ever? And that it's not even the worst thing about this episode?
S3 E11 · Mon, July 20, 2020
The Two Bartlets w/Special Guest Luke Savage
Luke Savage returns as the kids go to Puerto Rico to discuss Affirmative Action with CJ's dad.
S3 E10 · Mon, July 13, 2020
10,000 Airplanes w/Special Guest Oliver Willis
Dave and Josh welcome Oliver Willis to witness one of the more jaw dropping episodes of your favorite show. Learn why we can't have nice things as Jed and the Wingnut kids do their best to ensure that cancer doesn't get cured. Also, here's a link to free-floating agent of chaos Brian Siano's article referenced in the episode: https://www.briansiano.com/2015/04/04/science-and-public-relations-skeptic-v-7-no-1-1999/
S3 E9 · Mon, July 06, 2020
H. Con-172
The most explosive plot in West Wing history comes to a shattering climax. You won't believe your ears.
S3 E8 · Mon, June 29, 2020
Bartlet For America
We love Bartlet so much we've been walking around in a daze for two weeks. Plus, the things we do to women. AND an all new segment with an all new song from Diesel Boots. What more could you ask for, folks?
S3 E7 · Mon, June 22, 2020
The Women Of Qumar w/Special Guest Savanna LaMaison
This episode takes the Misogyny Rundown to whole new heights. Our special guest, sex worker Savanna LaMaison, helps us break down some of its awfulness.
S3 E6 · Mon, June 15, 2020
The Indians in the Lobby w/Special Guest Wasté Win Young
This week, the West Wing skates over the Death Penalty and "Indian" affairs as only the West Wing can. Also - if you want some truly inane and absurd entertaining with no redeeming social merit whatsoever, join Josh, Dave, Diesel Boots, Gareth, Will and Matt for a screening of The Apple. We promise absolutely NO West Wing content: https://vimeo.com/428161678/c92c70b811
S3 E5 · Mon, June 08, 2020
Gone Quiet
In which the show gets too sexy, and Diesel Boots graces us with a newer and even timelier version of our theme song.
S3 E4 · Mon, June 01, 2020
War Crimes w/Special Guest Tarence Ray from Trillbilly Worker's Party
Head hunters, gods, war crimes, pennies and the birth of The Newsroom. This one's got it all!
S3 E3 · Mon, May 25, 2020
On The Day Before
This week, the West Wing takes on the Israel Palestine conflict, where to get C4, and fashion tips.
S3 E2 · Mon, May 18, 2020
Ways and Means w/Special Guest Amber A'Lee Frost
Amber joins us from her deep dive into Aaron Sorkin. This one's epic, folks!
S3 E1 · Mon, May 11, 2020
Season 3 Premiere - Manchester Parts 1 & 2
It's the third season of The West Wing Thing, and we start off with the bang made by Josh and Dave crashing into the rocks of the two part season premiere.
S2 E21 · Mon, May 04, 2020
Are you there God, it’s me, Jed? w/Very Special Guest David Sirota
It's the second season finale as we dive deep into Two Cathedrals with the one and only David Sirota! And don't worry - we'll be back next week.
S2 E21 · Mon, April 27, 2020
18th & Potomac
The West Wing tackles Haiti as only the West Wing can - by pretending America never did anything bad in Haiti. Hilarity ensues. Plus - If you like Diesel Boots' songs for our show, you can now buy any and all of them straight from the source! https://collynmccoy.bandcamp.com/releases
S2 E20 · Mon, April 27, 2020
The Fall's Gonna Kill You w/Special Guest Tom Sexton from the Trillbilly Workers Party
Recorded as LA was being shut down, Josh and Dave romp through a piquant and heady brew of misogyny and stupid right wing tax plans with Trillbilly Tom Sexton.
S2 E18 · Mon, April 20, 2020
17 People
In which Tobey takes days to figure out the bleeding obvious, Sam and Ainsley argue the ERA, and we offer up an assignment for any one of our diligent listeners to take on.
S2 E19 · Mon, April 20, 2020
Bad Title Rising
The importance of always telling truth, and always laughing at how silly women and their concerns are. Plus, we talk about that Aaron Sorkin interview in the New York Times, and Josh rants about the “Film By” credit.
S2 E17 · Mon, April 13, 2020
The Stackhouse Fillibuster w/Special Guest Matt Stoller
Matt Stoller joins us to explain why we don’t like Hamilton, which neither of us have seen. But he's right. He also explains why what we do here matters. Plus, we talk about a dopey episode of The West Wing.
S2 E16 · Mon, April 13, 2020
Somebody's Going To Emergency, Somebody's Going To Jail w/Special Guest Luke Savage
Luke Savage returns just in time to watch The West Wing get everything about NAFTA wrong. Trigger Warning - this episode contains Don Henley content. Proceed accordingly.
S2 E14 · Mon, April 06, 2020
The War At Home
This week, the West Wing takes on the very serious problem of progressives who are just whiny children who don't understand the realities of politics. Plus - will Ainsley pee on the president's rug?
S2 E15 · Mon, April 06, 2020
Ellie
Ha ha ha ha! People who smoke pot always want to eat stuff. Ha ha ha ha ha! Plus a very special rewrite of The West Wing that fixes everything.
S2 E13 · Mon, March 30, 2020
Bartlet's Third State of the Union
What is it with women and paint, and why must they constantly sit in it?
S2 E12 · Mon, March 23, 2020
The Drop In
In which we ask the very wonderful and brilliant Alex Press to watch her very first episode of West Wing, then force her to talk about it.
S2 E11 · Mon, March 16, 2020
The Leadership Breakfast
A good deal of time is spent discussing pancake syrup, but we ignore all that to discuss how The West Wing kids are always losing.
S2 E10 · Mon, March 09, 2020
Noël
A very special episode, in which we take a break from discussing the terrible effect of The West Wing's politics, and talk about it's equally terrible impact on mental health.
S2 E9 · Mon, March 02, 2020
9/11 Special w/Special Guest Matt Christman
In light of recent events, we put together this special 9/11 episode of The West Wing Thing with special guest, Chapo Trap House's Matt Christman. Let's talk Isaac & Ishmael, folks!
S2 E8 · Mon, February 24, 2020
Galileo w/Special Guests Katherine Krueger & Will Menaker
Katherine Krueger and Chapo Trap House's Will Menaker loved it so much, they came back this week to discuss a very smarty pants episode of The West Wing.
S2 E7 · Mon, February 17, 2020
Shibboleth w/Special Guests Katherine Krueger & Will Menaker
West Wing superfans Katherine Krueger and Chapo Trap House's Will Menaker join us to set us straight on the greatest television show in history.
S2 E6 · Mon, February 10, 2020
The Portland Trip
In which Josh (the one on The West Wing, not our beloved co-host) explodes in a fit of misogynistic rage. Hilarity ensues.
S2 E5 · Mon, February 03, 2020
The Lame Duck Congress
"The Lame Duck Congress" In which Sorkin explains the reasons why it's wrong for a politician to do their job.
S2 E4 · Mon, January 27, 2020
And It's Surely To Their Credit
"And It's Surely To Their Credit" Bartlet comes perilously close to getting laid, and the great John Larroquette gets to say what the rest of us are thinking.
S2 E3 · Mon, January 20, 2020
In This White House
"In This White House" Everybody's favorite Good Republican finally comes to The West Wing. It's Ainsley Hayes, folks! This is how you government!
S2 E2 · Mon, January 13, 2020
The Midterms
"The Midterms" Josh finally explodes, but then Dave blows up even more. THE most iconic scene in the history of the show
S2 E1 · Mon, January 06, 2020
Season Premiere: In the Shadow of Two Gunmen w/Special Guest John Rogers
Episodes 1&2 In the Shadow of Two Gunmen We're back! And we're joined by TV writer/producer John Rogers, creator of LEVERAGE, who explains - among other things - that it's possible to run a TV series withOUT screwing your writers out of money.
S1 E24 · Mon, October 07, 2019
What Kind of Day Has It Been? w/Special Guest Luke Savage
Episode 22 “What Kind of Day Has It Been?” It's the action packed finale of the first season of The West Wing, and we celebrate by talking with Luke Savage, whose Current Affairs article HOW LIBERALS FELL IN LOVE WITH THE WEST WING is the seminal work in the field. We'll be taking a brief break, but we'll be back shortly with season 3 of The West Wing Thing, in which we discuss season 2 of The West Wing. Confused? Ask Dave. He'll explain.
S1 E23 · Mon, September 30, 2019
Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics
Episode 21 "Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics" In which Josh and Dave hype the other West Wing podcast, attempt to bring back the word “pud,” reveal who can beat Trump in a debate, and discuss what might actually be the worst line ever uttered on The West Wing. And on The West Wing, the gang sacrifices a live cow to the great god Bipartisanship, and we explain why that's dopey.
S1 E22 · Mon, September 23, 2019
Mandatory Minimums
Episode 20 "Mandatory Minimums" Joey Lucas is back, Josh wears his special suit, and the mating habits of emotionally stunted man-boys take center stage. Plus, the dark West Wing past of a Democratic presidential hopeful is laid bare for all to see.
S1 E21 · Mon, September 16, 2019
Let Bartlet Be Bartlet
Episode 19 "Let Bartlet Be Bartlet" In an obvious response to our many criticisms of the show, Leo and the gang determine to buckle down and get real about using the power of the White House to actually get something done.
S1 E20 · Mon, September 09, 2019
Six Meetings Before Lunch
Episode 18 "Six Meetings Before Lunch" Josh argues reparations with a new black character, Sam gaslights Mallory with the help of her father, and Zoe (Note to self - confirm character's name before posting!) tells a lie that might have huge repercussions for the White House.
S1 E19 · Mon, September 02, 2019
The White House Pro-Am
Episode 17. "The White House Pro-Am" This one's got it all - from NAFTA to child slavery. Listen to find out why Dave considers this "the most vile episode of the West Wing that has ever existed”
S1 E18 · Mon, August 26, 2019
20 Hours In LA
Episode 16. "20 Hours In LA" The gang flies West and finds that California does funny things to ladies and their lady brains. Plus, Bartlett lectures them gays on why pragmatic idealism is more effective than actually doing things.
S1 E17 · Mon, August 19, 2019
Celestial Navigation
Episode 15. "Celestial Navigation" Josh relates the events of a typical day in the West Wing, which includes the introduction of a new West Wing tradition - white people explaining to non-white people the best ways to handle racism. Plus, a shout out to the standard bearers of our industry, Pod Save America.
S1 E16 · Mon, August 12, 2019
Take This Sabbath Day
Episode 14. "Take This Sabbath Day" In which the West Wing kids tackle the death penalty in the most West Wing way imaginable, it is discovered that sometimes women have names for commonly associated with men, everyone enjoys the great Karl Malden's final performance as a priest, and Dave finds his happy sound.
S1 E15 · Mon, August 05, 2019
Our Very Special To Kill A Mockingbird episode
Dave and Josh are joined by Chris Wade - Chapo Trap House producer, and co-host of And Introducing to discuss his experience witnessing Aaron Sorkin's version of To Kill A Mockingbird.
Trailer · Fri, August 02, 2019
Teaser - A Very Special West Wing Thing
On Monday - It's a very special West Wing Thing with a very special guest who did a very special thing that we're too chicken to do ourselves.
S1 E14 · Mon, July 29, 2019
Take Out The Trash Day
Dave Anthony and Josh Olson discuss Ep 13, "Take Out The Trash Day," in which several men explain homophobia to CJ.
S1 E13 · Mon, July 22, 2019
He Shall, From Time To Time
It's a brand new season of The West Wing Thing, and Dave and Josh are back! We kick things off with Episode 12, "He Shall, From Time To Time." Everything you ever wanted to know about the State of the Union address! Plus - why CJ has trouble keeping a man.
S1 E12 · Mon, June 10, 2019
Mid-Season Wrap w/Special Guest Susan Saxe
We take a mid-season break with a wrap up. We've struggled through 11 episodes of The West Wing and are joined by activist Susan Saxe to discuss neoliberalism and how the West Wing infected the politics of the Democratic Party.
S1 E11 · Mon, June 03, 2019
Lord John Marbury w/Special Guest Faisal-Azam Qureshi
Episode 11 "Lord John Marbury" The West Wing tackles the complex issue of Pakistan and India in the most simplistic way possible. To discuss the situation, we are joined by our first guest ever - Writer, journalist, and producer of Four Lions, Faisal-Azam Qureshi.
S1 E10 · Mon, May 27, 2019
In Excelsis Deo
Dave Anthony and Josh Olson discuss Ep 10, "In Excelsis Deo," in which the show tackles the serious problem of veteran homelessness in the most shallow fashion possible.
S1 E9 · Mon, May 20, 2019
The Short List
Dave and Josh discuss Ep 9, "The Short List." A Supreme Court justice is picked! He's a Federalist! And in West Wing style, the pick seems to have little to do with issues that the left in America would actually care about.
S1 E8 · Mon, May 13, 2019
Enemies
In episode 8, "Enemies," we experience the joy of the White House trying to pass a banking bill through a Congress that can attach amendments. It is griping.
S1 E7 · Mon, May 06, 2019
The State Dinner
The State Dinner takes a dive into American exceptionalism, Sorkin's take on unions, and the weirdest hurricane ending possible.
S1 E6 · Mon, April 29, 2019
Mr Wills of Ohio
Dave and Josh discuss Episode 6, "Mr Wills of Ohio." Awkward moments dealing with race. Very awkward.
S1 E5 · Mon, April 22, 2019
The Crackpots and These Women
In Episode 5, "The Crackpots and These Women," Josh melts down over something he shouldn't meltdown over and we experience the worst ending yet.
S1 E4 · Mon, April 15, 2019
Five Votes Down
In episode 4,"Five Votes Down" we get to see the exciting mechanics behind passing a gun bill that no one seems to think is good. And Josh Olson finds the greatest visual in the history of television.
S1 E3 · Mon, April 08, 2019
A Proportional Response
In episode 3, "A Proportional Response," the president of the United States wants to kill a lot of people and the White House becomes less white.
S1 E2 · Mon, April 01, 2019
Post Hoc, Ergo Propter Hoc
Post Hoc, Ergo Propter Hoc, in which the left wing gets screwed, the delightful friendship of Sam and the sex worker continues, and a very bad thing happens.
S1 E1 · Mon, March 25, 2019
Pilot
In the pilot of The West Wing, which is titled "Pilot", we meet the staff of the Josiah Bartlet administration. Twitter - @ TheWestWingThi1
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