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Is Kamala Harris's surge in the polls the sign of a new political era? Join Barbara Barnett and Jimmy Dailey on Let's Talk TV Live as we celebrate Kamala Harris officially becoming the vice presidential nominee alongside Tim Walz. We reflect on her dynamic campaign and the significant support she’s receiving from both people all over the political spectrum, showcasing a hopeful shift towards unity.

Additionally, we discuss JD Vance's limited influence, Olympic controversies, and Jimmy’s thoughts on the Arch of the Scythe trilogy, offering a rich blend of political and pop culture insights.

From Josh Shapiro's pivotal role in Pennsylvania to the fictional military coup in the new Sundance film "War Game," we explore the intricate dynamics of political strategy and alignment. Reflecting on Shapiro's oratory prowess reminiscent of Barack Obama, we delve into the strategic importance of his position as governor. The episode also revisits the impactful 80s movie "The Day After," drawing parallels with today's political climate. Kamala's confident handling of hecklers and the enthusiastic support from her diverse base paint a vivid picture of her campaign’s momentum.

Desperate Trump tweets, RFK Jr.’s bizarre antics, and the potential future of third-party politics round out a lively discussion. We highlight the backlash faced by an Olympic athlete, the merits of inspirational underdog movies, and the dystopian themes of the "Scythe" trilogy. As the Democratic Party faces electoral challenges and shifts towards moderation, we express optimism for upcoming anti-gerrymandering legislation. Excitement builds as we prepare for election day, planning yard signs and poll work, while sharing personal stories from past elections. Tune in for a compelling episode that intertwines the evolving political landscape with television and pop culture.

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Have you ever wondered how a simple Zoom meeting could turn the tide in a political campaign? Join us as Barbara Barnett and her semi-regular co-host Jimmy Dailey, aka Jerome Wetzel, take us through the whirlwind world of current politics. Barbara shows off her rare Apple Ultra watch and dives into the dynamic fundraising efforts of Kamala Harris, spotlighting diverse support groups like Jewish Women for Kamala. Jimmy, despite facing recent job loss, shares his unwavering support, showcasing the resilience and dedication of Kamala’s community. Expect some laughs with amusing political memes and a discussion on the growing coalition backing Kamala as we highlight the enthusiasm fueling her campaign.

The intricacies of race and politics in America come to the forefront as we explore how public figures like Kamala Harris and J.D. Vance navigate their mixed-race identities. A hilarious SNL sketch about Beyoncé’s racial identity offers a lens into shifting public perceptions, while Trump’s contentious appearance at the National Association of Black Journalists reveals his defensive reactions and the media’s portrayal of these moments. This chapter underscores the complex interplay of race, identity, and contemporary political discourse, offering poignant insights and reflections.

Our final segment shifts gears to potential vice-presidential candidates and the broader political landscape. We delve into the intersection of anti-Semitism and political criticism, the charisma of Mark Kelly and Waltz, and the strategic importance of engaging with Fox News. Admire the public speaking skills of figures like Pete Buttigieg and Josh Shapiro and consider the impact of a double woman ticket in future elections. Wrapping up, we introduce Senator Gary Peters of Michigan, highlighting his growing relevance and potential influence in shaping the political scene. Get ready for a thought-provoking and engaging discussion that covers all the bases.

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What happens when the Democratic Party pulls off a seamless transition with Biden stepping down and Harris stepping up? Prepare for an electrifying discussion as Jimmy Dailey and Barbara, unpack this bold move, which effectively took the wind out of Trump's sails post-convention. We question if this was a masterstroke of premeditation or just a fortunate turn of events, and marvel at the unprecedented unity within the Democratic ranks. Meanwhile, don't miss my side story about settling into Pittsburgh and gearing up for the Confluence sci-fi and fantasy convention.

Amidst the political upheaval, we navigate the rollercoaster of emotions and the promise of change hovering on the horizon. Our deep dive into potential vice-presidential candidates—Shapiro, Kelly, Whitmer, and Beshear—reveals their strengths and weaknesses, with a special nod to Kelly's impressive dual background as an astronaut and military man. We emphasize the crucial role a VP pick plays in rallying the electorate and giving the ticket a competitive edge.

Switching gears, we recap the Republican National Convention with a mix of humor and critique. From Mark Kelly’s antics in a gorilla suit to Elon Musk's trolling escapades, we leave no stone unturned. We also take a critical look at JD Vance’s foreword in “Dawn’s Early Light,” dissecting its radical conservative agenda and the contradictions in Vance’s own story. Ending with a comparison of the Democratic and Republican strategies, we draw intriguing parallels to TV dramas like "The Boys" and "The West Wing," making for a compelling and thought-provoking episode.

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(with apologies to Marshall McLuhan)

We are back!
Barbara and Jim are back to talk about TV and politics in the midst of the Republican National Convention and the Biden Electability crisis. We'll also talk about "The Boys" (no spoilers), "West Wing," "Battlestar Galactica" and "The Good Fight."

Love to hear what you think in the comments. And please spread the word!!
If you'd like to attend a live taping of next week's show (on Zoom) email me at Barbara@BarbaraBarnett.com.

Please visit my website for more information about The Bram Stoker nominated The Apothecary's Curse, Alchemy of Glass and Chasing Zebras.

Please visit the It's All Been Done Radio Hour, Jim's home on the Interwebs.

Follow me on Twitter @B_Barnett.

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Originally part of the Original Let's Talk TV Live Brodcast on BlogTalk Radio. Enjoy this classic episode from a few years ago while you're waiting for new episodes to drop!

Have you ever wondered how TV medical dramas have mirrored and shaped society's view of healthcare over the decades? Join us as we sit down with Wally Podrazic from the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago. Wally, a renowned pop culture and television history expert, shares his vast knowledge and fascinating insights from his co-authored book, "Watching TV: Six Decades of American Television." Together, we explore the universal appeal of medical shows, their blend of soap opera elements, and the critical role of the Museum of Broadcast Communications in preserving this genre's legacy.

Travel back in time as we trace the captivating evolution of medical TV dramas from the 1950s to the 1980s. We'll discuss iconic series like "I Love Lucy," the educational "Medic," and the serious "Ben Casey" and "Dr. Kildare" of the 1960s. Experience the lighter yet impactful tones of "Hennessy" and hear about personal favorites and unforgettable episodes that have left an indelible mark on viewers. Wally and I share our love for these classic series, highlighting their varied storytelling styles and timeless appeal.

Our conversation takes a deeper turn as we discuss the profound societal impact of these shows. Learn how medical dramas tackled controversial social issues, reflected societal attitudes, and even influenced career choices. We'll explore how "MASH" uniquely blended comedy and drama to portray the harsh realities of war and how "Emergency" brought emergency medicine into the spotlight. This episode promises a nostalgic and insightful journey through the history and influence of TV medical dramas, shedding light on their role in shaping both television and society.