#818 - Mike Schmidt

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Exploring Racism in Criminal Justice Through Personal Experiences

  • Discussion centers on racial disparities in the criminal justice system.
  • Personal anecdotes illustrate systemic issues experienced in Wisconsin.
  • The conversation highlights the importance of understanding statistics in race relations.
• 00:09:38

  Critique of Racial Bias in Criminal Justice System

  • The discussion highlights systemic racial bias in criminal justice assessments.
  • Participants argue that the criteria for dangerousness unfairly targets Black individuals.
  • A defense attorney reflects on the challenges of representing clients in a flawed system.
• 00:19:53

  The Competitive Nature of Law Enforcement and Its Consequences

  • The podcast discusses the competitive mindset prevalent in law enforcement.
  • Concerns are raised about unethical practices for winning cases.
  • The impact of police interactions on public perception and respect is examined.
• 00:34:46

  Police Violence and Racial Disparities in Justice System

  • Discussion highlights issues of police violence during high-speed chases.
  • Racial disparities in incarceration rates and foster care are emphasized.
  • Proposed solutions to crime, like gardening, are criticized as ineffective.
• 00:43:19

  Examining Gender Politics and Leadership in Modern Society

  • Discussion on the public perception of male feminists and their communication styles.
  • Insights into the pressures and challenges faced by political leaders today.
  • Exploration of age and appearance biases in political candidacy, particularly for women.
• 00:50:02

  Unpacking Political Power and Scrutiny in Modern America

  • Discussion highlights the impact of unchecked power in political offices.
  • Examines the scrutiny faced by recent U.S. presidents, especially Obama.
  • Considers the health and charisma of political figures like Hillary Clinton.
• 00:56:36

  Discussion on Concussions, War Crimes, and Political Figures

  • Post-concussion syndrome and its implications were explored in detail.
  • The conversation shifted to George Bush and Dick Cheney's controversial actions.
  • Legal accountability for war crimes was debated, highlighting jurisdiction complexities.
• 01:03:44

  Examining Executive Powers in Criminal Justice and Pardons

  • Governors have significant power over clemency and pardons in some jurisdictions.
  • Controversial pardons have been granted throughout history, affecting public trust.
  • Political dynamics influence clemency decisions, raising questions about fairness.
• 01:11:16

  Exploring Nixon's Legacy and Government Surveillance Culture

  • Discussion on Nixon's character and its implications on government trust.
  • Humorous anecdotes about cheating in golf reflecting broader ethical concerns.
  • Insights into modern surveillance tactics and their historical roots in government actions.
• 01:17:50

  Discussion on Political Corruption and Cultural Commentary

  • The Whitewater scandal was tied to corrupt real estate ventures by politicians.
  • Dick Cheney's Halliburton connection raised questions about political ethics and profits.
  • Cultural appropriation and colonialism were humorously linked to modern media and films.
• 01:25:45

  Discussion on Sports Endorsements and Impact of Athletic Performance

  • The conversation highlights the extreme earnings of top golfers and athletes.
  • A humorous analysis of the physical impacts of sports injuries was discussed.
  • The discussion touched on endorsement deals and their significance in sports.
• 01:31:20

  Discussion on Golf, NASCAR, and the Nature of Sports

  • The financial success of golfers and their endorsements is highlighted.
  • NASCAR's origins in bootlegging races is discussed humorously.
  • The adrenaline and technical aspects of Formula One racing are explored.
• 01:36:52

  Analyzing Changes in DUI Laws and Their Implications

  • Discussion on how DUI field tests have shifted legal limits over the decades.
  • Concerns about the reliability of sobriety tests and their evolving standards.
  • Highlighting inequalities in legal representation for DUI cases based on socioeconomic status.
• 01:49:30

  The Flaws in the Criminal Justice System and Its Experts

  • The criminal justice system is criticized for being ineffective and unjust.
  • Expert witnesses often biased, leading to skewed outcomes in trials.
  • Historical context shows a lack of improvement in justice systems over time.
• 02:00:53

  Controversial Views on Prison Dynamics and Sociopathy

  • Discussion on sexual dynamics and relationships within prison environments.
  • Exploration of sociopathy and its implications in criminal behavior.
  • Debate on the nature vs. nurture argument regarding criminality.
• 02:12:08

  Exploring Comedy, Criminal Justice, and Iconic Music Videos

  • Discussion revolves around George Michael's influence and significance in music.
  • Insight into the challenges of the criminal justice system and personal experiences.
  • Highlights the vibrant comedy scene and competitive dynamics in stand-up.