Best Checkered Thoughts Podcasts (2025)

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News Brief: NPR Asks Starving Palestinian Living On Rubble to Denounce Hamas, Co-Sign His Own Ethnic Cleansing 23:08

9m ago23:08

23:08

In this News Brief, we we break down an object lesson in racist US-Israeli national security state toadyism, double standards, and runaway condescension.

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Astrobiodefense: Biological Threats and the Next Frontier 3:09:28

3d ago3:09:28

3:09:28

This Commission meeting, Astrobiodefense: Biological Threats and the Next Frontier, was held on May 8, 2025. The focus of this meeting will be to provide the Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense with a better understanding of how to strengthen international astrobiodefense and planetary protection efforts through: (1) current government astrobiodefe…

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2025 State of Biodefense - Remarks by Dr. Asha M. George 1:07:45

3d ago1:07:45

1:07:45

The Commission's May 8, 2025 meeting began with Executive Director Dr. Asha M. George delivering the first annual State of National Biodefense address. The increasing biological threat and uncertainty surrounding federal biodefense programs and capabilities necessitates a clear-eyed examination of the threat and US efforts to address critical capab…

1
Ep 112 - Brothers, Brews, and Honest Reviews at Checkers Tavern 20:24

3d ago20:24

20:24

Send us a text Pull up a barstool and join Mike, the Northwoods Beer Guy, and his brother Brian, the "Mad Scientist of brewing," as they embark on a craft beer adventure at Checkers Tavern in Warrensburg, Missouri. Against a backdrop of live music and lively bar ambiance, the brothers share honest, straightforward evaluations of local brews with th…

1
Ep 111 - From Cocktails to CranFest: A Northern Wisconsin Journey 46:28

10d ago46:28

46:28

Send us a text Ever wonder if those ready-to-drink cocktails are actually worth your time? This episode takes you on a journey through five different canned cocktails that might change how you stock your cooler this summer. Mike (fighting through a springtime bug) and Suzy start by revisiting their experience at Between the Bluffs beer festival, hi…

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News Brief: Baltimore Uprising 10 Years on: PR Co-option vs Genuine Reform 36:49

12d ago36:49

36:49

In this News Brief we are joined by Taya Graham and Stephen Janis of The Real News Network to discuss their new documentary, "Freddie Gray: A Decade of Struggle" about the lessons, pitfalls and genuine reforms stemming from the 2015 Baltimore Uprisings. You can watch the documentary here: therealnews.com/freddie-gray-the-…ng-10-years-later…

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Ep 110 -The Northwoods Beer Guy discovers hidden gems at La Crosse's premier beer event 19:24

17d ago19:24

19:24

Send us a text Step into the vibrant world of Wisconsin's craft beer scene as the Northwoods Beer Guy and friends explore the Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine and Cheese Festival in La Crosse. This on-location adventure captures the excitement of discovery as Mike and his crew of familiar podcast voices sample their way through dozens of unique offeri…

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Episode 220: The Power of Thought-Terminating Bad Guy Labels 1:21:06

19d ago1:21:06

1:21:06

"American Extremists Aiding Radicals Across Border," trumpeted the Detroit Free Press in 1919. "707 Illegal Aliens Arrested in Checkpoint Crackdown," reported the Los Angeles Times in 1987. "87 Bronx gang members responsible for nine years of murders and drug-dealing charged in largest takedown in NYC history," announced the New York Daily News in …

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Ep 109 - From Mead to IPA: A Journey Through Unexpected Flavors 1:05:07

26d ago1:05:07

1:05:07

Send us a text What happens when two beer enthusiasts taste their way through seven wildly different craft beverages in a single sitting? A flavor journey that spans continents, traditions, and brewing philosophies. Mike and Jim kick off with excited chatter about the upcoming Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine and Cheese Festival before diving into the…

1
Ep 219: How Elites Concern Troll 'Waste' to Gut Social Welfare and Divide the Working Class 1:15:34

26d ago1:15:34

1:15:34

"Poverty plan hit for fraud, waste," reported the Associated Press in 1966. "Study says government waste is unbelievable,” insisted United Press International in 1983. "Beneath Trump’s Chaotic Spending Freeze: An Idea That Crosses Party Lines," announced The New York Times in January of this year. It’s an argument that dates back decades, even cent…

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Ep 108 - Sip, Discuss, Repeat: Two Beer Guys and Seven Boulevard Brews 1:11:40

1M ago1:11:40

1:11:40

Send us a text When we stepped into Boulevard Brewing Company during our Kansas City visit, we knew we were in for something special. What we didn't expect was just how masterfully this brewery has honed their craft across such diverse beer styles. Having brought back seven distinct bottles to sample, we're taking you on a flavor journey that showc…

1
Ep 218: The Siren Song of Rallying Around a 'Common Enemy' to Promote Progressive Causes 1:13:21

1M ago1:13:21

1:13:21

"Senate Weighs Investing $120 Billion in Science to Counter China," trumpeted The New York Times in 2021. "A New Economic Patriotism Can Help Unite Our Divided Congress," argued Newsweek in 2023. "US cedes ground to China with ‘self-inflicted wound’ of USAid shutdown, analysts say," cautioned The Guardian in 2025. In recent years, we’ve been expose…

1
Ep 107 - Unexpected Flavor: When Sours Surprise and Honey Harmonizes 56:27

1M ago56:27

56:27

Send us a text A familiar voice returns to the Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast as Brian rejoins Mike after a long absence since appearances on episodes one and two. Their reunion brings a diverse lineup of six unique beers that take listeners on a journey from the shores of Hawaii to the heartland of Wisconsin. The duo kicks off with Kona Brewing's Big…

1
Ep 106 - In every sip, there's a story waiting to be discovered 59:48

2M ago59:48

59:48

Send us a text Venture into the fascinating world of barrel-aged beers as Mike and BK embark on a tasting journey that reveals just how varied and complex these special brews can be. From the moment they crack open their first beer – a velvety chocolate mint stout that transforms dramatically as it warms – to the surprising discoveries in Mobcraft'…

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News Brief: Dem Leaders, 'Free Speech' Warriors Mostly Shrug as Trump Disappears Political Dissidents 28:09

2M ago28:09

28:09

In this public News Brief, we discuss the media and high-profile Democratic Party leaders and 'Free Speech' crowd's muted—or, in many cases, completely silent—response to the greatest attack on free speech in recent memory: Trump's kidnapping and disappearing of Palestinian solidarity students.

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Ep 105 - Beyond the Barrel: Exploring Central Waters Brewing's Lesser-Known Beers 56:41

2M ago56:41

56:41

Send us a text When it's time to explore a brewery's full range, sometimes you discover surprising variance in quality – and Central Waters certainly delivered that experience. While renowned for their stellar barrel-aging program, what happens when these expert bourbon-barrel wizards venture into lighter, everyday beer styles? Mike and Jim bravely…

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Episode 217: A.I. Mysticism as Responsibility-Evasion PR Tactic 1:03:20

2M ago1:03:20

1:03:20

“Israel built an ‘AI factory’ for war. It unleashed it in Gaza,” laments the Washington Post. “Hospitals Are Reporting More Insurance Denials. Is AI Driving Them?,” reports Newsweek. “AI Raising the Rent? San Francisco Could Be the First City to Ban the Practice,” announces San Francisco’s KQED. Within the last few years, and particularly the last …

1
Ep 104 - Angry Leprechauns: The Quest for Flavorful Irish Beer 50:16

2M ago50:16

50:16

Send us a text What happens when you put six Irish beers in front of two craft beer enthusiasts? A St. Patrick's Day adventure that reveals the surprising truth about Irish craft beer. The Northwoods Beer Guy and his co-host embark on a post-holiday tasting journey through various Irish beer styles, from dry stouts to red ales and beyond. Starting …

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News Brief: Trump's Hollow Working Class Aesthetics and How Unions Can Lead a Real Resistance 33:11

2M ago33:11

33:11

In this Citations Needed News Brief interview, we're joined by Rutgers professor Eric Blanc to discuss his new book "We Are The Union," and lay out how any meaningful resistance to Trump and Trumpism has to be grounded in a growing, strong, confrontational labor movement.

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News Brief: Israel Kills Over 400 in 12 Hrs, Media Unsure if This Counts as Violating the 'Ceasefire' 19:35

2M ago19:35

19:35

In this News Brief, we detail the struggle to continue framing Israel as a reluctant, defensive peace-seeking party despite its openly genocidal rhetoric and acts.

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Ep 103 - On Location - Craft Beer Journey: Smoke Brewing Company 24:29

2M ago24:29

24:29

Send us a text When we walked into Smoke Brewing Company in Lee's Summit, Missouri, we were immediately struck by the explosion of St. Patrick's Day decorations covering every inch of the place. "There might be a tipping point when you go over the top," Jim observed, and this brewery was definitely testing those limits with its festive atmosphere. …

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News Brief: The Disappearance of Mahmoud Khalil and the Phony 'Campus Safety' Panic 34:15

2M ago34:15

34:15

In this News Brief, we detail how Center-Left institutions and media have cynically wielded "lived experience" claptrap to assist Trump's overtly fascistic crackdown on dissenting speech.

1
Episode 216: Sunday Morning News Shows and the Problem With 'Agenda Setting' Court Stenography 57:53

2M ago57:53

57:53

“It’s fair to call the deteriorating situation at the US/Mexican border a crisis,” declared NBC’s Meet the Press in 2021. “[CNN anchor Dana] Bash presses Netanyahu on Gaza death toll: 'Is Israel doing everything possible to... avoid civilian casualties?',” boasted CNN’s State of the Union in 2023. “Principle over party… The latest high-profile Repu…

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Ep 102 - On Location -Cheers to Unconventional Brews: Exploring Unique Tastes of The Goat Brewing 47:22

3M ago47:22

47:22

Send us a text Step inside The Goat Brewing with us in this vibrant episode of the Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast! We dive deep into a diverse tasting session featuring ten unique beers that showcase the creativity and innovation of craft brewing. From classic brews like the Black Ruby Oatmeal Stout to bold experiments such as the Gose with Salsa, eac…

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Citations Needed Live Show Beg-a-Thon: Ancient Rome and the False Histories Inspiring Musk & the MAGA World 1:06:10

2M ago1:06:10

1:06:10

In this Beg-a-Thon live show, "Ancient Rome and the False Histories Inspiring Musk & the MAGA World," with guest Dr. Sarah E. Bond, we discuss Sarah's new book, Strike: Labor, Unions, and Resistance in the Roman Empire, and how Elon Musk and everyone in his MAGA orbit appropriate the aesthetics of Rome while understanding almost nothing about the h…

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Ep 101 - On Location From Kansas City with Love: A Boulevard Brewing Experience 40:15

3M ago40:15

40:15

Send us a text Welcome to our mouthwatering adventure at Boulevard Brewing Company in Kansas City, where we've curated an exceptional tasting experience featuring some of their finest barrel-aged brews! Each selection boasts impressive alcohol content, rich flavors, and innovative brewing techniques that set Boulevard apart in today's craft beer ar…

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Ep 100 - Cheers to 100 Episodes: Exploring Stouts and Trivia Galore 1:02:21

3M ago1:02:21

1:02:21

Send us a text Ever wondered how we managed to sample nearly 700 different beers by our 100th episode? Join us as we reflect on this incredible journey, exploring the vast world of stouts with a selection that spans a modest 4.9% ABV to a bold 15.5%. From the sweeter notes of Yoho Brewing's Sakura Mochi Stout to the complex flavors of Prairie Artis…

1
Ep 99 - Sampling Six Unique Brews: A Journey Through Nebraska's Craft Beer Scene 43:33

3M ago43:33

43:33

Send us a text Explore Nebraska's craft beer scene as we dive into unique brews from four breweries, each offering something different. From spicy pickle beers to smooth porters, we highlight the distinct flavors and craftsmanship in Nebraska, encouraging listeners to discover these hidden gems for themselves. • Craft beer serves as comfort during …

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News Brief: Silicon Valley Patronage, How To Subtly Drift Right, and the New Conservative Media Ecosystem 35:09

3M ago35:09

35:09

In this News Brief, we interview journalist and author Eoin Higgins about his new book, "Owned: How Tech Billionaires on the Right Bought the Loudest Voices on the Left," discuss the new model of tech billionaire funding, and detail how some of the biggest names in Left media became MAGA-aligned, Tucker-boosting petty, score-settlers.…

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Ep 98 - We Dive Into Some Russian Imperial Stouts 1:04:51

4M ago1:04:51

1:04:51

Send us a text Embark on a flavorful journey with us as we uncover the secrets behind barrel-aged beers in this episode of the Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast. From the robust Privyet Russian Imperial Stout to the exclusive 15th Anniversary Brewer's Choice blend, we promise you'll learn all about the craftsmanship that makes these brews exceptional. Jo…

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News Brief: Media Continues Painting Musk's Far Right Coup as Good Faith "Cost-Cutting Effort" 24:30

3M ago24:30

24:30

In this News Brief we detail how The New York Times, Washington Post, and CNN took a pathological liar with a clear ideological agenda at his word he's worried about "waste" for the sole reason he’s rich and powerful.

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Ep 97 - Hello Darkness My Old Friend 52:21

4M ago52:21

52:21

Send us a text This week, the guys continue their exploration of barrel aged beer. They try a number of variations on the classic Russian Imperial Stout, Darkness, by Surly. They also try an anniversary beer to change up the pace! Here is what they try: 1. Darkness 2. Gimme S'more 3. Midnight Manhattan 4. Chocolate Limoncello 5. Double Barrel 6. Co…

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News Brief: Trump's Anti-Migrant Terror PR Strategy, Dr Phil's ICE Reality Show & NYT's MAGA Assist 35:35

4M ago35:35

35:35

In this News Brief, we detail the Trump's administration's strategy of trying to terrorize migrant communities, why it's not working as planned, how The New York Times is manufacturing a pro-mass deportation consensus and how migrant communities and their allies are fighting back. We are joined by Chris from the humanitarian aid organization No Mor…

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Brett Cooper and Walmart 11:59

4M ago11:59

11:59

Today's Episode is a little random. We talk about Brett Cooper's new show starting on the 30th. We talk about Walmart's logo refresh, and we talk about who might buy TikTok in the next 80 some days! Enjoy! --------------- Follow John: https://www.facebook.com/RealJohnStuart http://instagram.com/johnmstuart https://www.youtube.com/@RealJohnStuart/ h…

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Ep 96 - Barrel Aged January Continues 1:08:41

4M ago1:08:41

1:08:41

Send us a text This week, the guys continue their barrel aged January by trying a number of barrel aged beers from Central Waters. Toby joins in on the fun and they are surprised in more ways than one, with these beers. The beers that they sample on this episode are: 1. Milwaukee Two Malted Milk Ball 2. 26th Anniversary with Raspberry & Vanilla 3. …

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News Brief: Media Won't Say a Nazi Salute is a Nazi Salute and How MAGA Became Too Big To Fail 36:00

4M ago36:00

36:00

In this inauguration coverage recap we detail how elite #resistance to Trump is MIA, how grassroots liberals and leftists are working behind the scenes anyway to fight back and why Trump and the billionaires who back him are now, more than ever, simply Too Big To Fail.

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TikTok vs Instagram 20:32

4M ago20:32

20:32

In this episode of Processed with John Stuart, we unpack the TikTok ban, its quick reinstatement, and its impact on apps like CapCut. Join us as we explore the shifting digital landscape, share insights, and set a positive tone for the week ahead. Sources: https://www.theverge.com/2025/1/19/24347358/instagram-edits-capcut-video-app-tiktok-ban? http…

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Ep 95 - 2024 Year in Review and Beer of the Year 1:00:27

4M ago1:00:27

1:00:27

Send us a text This week the guys are joined by Toby and they talk about the 2024 beers that stood out. They also try a few barrel-aged beers and a bourbon to see if they can taste it in a beer. The beers they try are: 1. Goose Island Bourbon County Angels Envy 2 Year Cask Stout 2. Two Roads Brewing Roadsmary's Baby Rum barrel-aged Pumpkin 3. Mob C…

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Episode 215: "Bipartisanship" as High-Minded Rhetorical Cover for Pushing Rightwing Policies 1:11:56

4M ago1:11:56

1:11:56

"Clinton seeks common ground with Republicans," reported the Associated Press in 1994. "Obama hosts dinner, urges bipartisanship," announced the AP again, in 2009. "Resist Trump? On Immigration, Top Democrats See Room for Compromise," stated The New York Times in late 2024. For decades, we’ve heard Democratic policymakers extol the virtues of worki…

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FIRE The Fact Checkers 21:24

4M ago21:24

21:24

This week, we dive into the California wildfires—what’s behind them and how they’re being managed—and Facebook’s shift from fact-checkers to community notes. Plus, a quick reflection on moderation and balance inspired by Proverbs 23. Join the conversation and let’s process it together! Season 1 Episode 2 ----- Sources: https://www.timesnownews.com/…

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Ep 94 - Barrel Aged January Starts! 1:22:46

4M ago1:22:46

1:22:46

Send us a text This week, the guys start barrel aged January by comparing two breweries that are in different stages of their barrel programs. The first company is Dangerous Man Brewing and they try four different Russian Imperial stouts that were aged in different barrels. They try the following beers: 1. Russell's Reserve Rye Whiskey 2. Heaven Hi…

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News Brief: NYT Bars Quakers From Using "Genocide" in Ad and Liberal Squeamishness Over the "G" Word 31:08

4M ago31:08

31:08

In this News Brief, we talk to Joyce Ajlouny of the American Friends Service Committee, discuss a recent episode where the New York Times refused to run an AFSC pro-ceasefire ad with the word "genocide" in it, and detail the broader battle within liberalism over labeling the US and Israel's "war" as genocide––and what it would entail if our media d…

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Pilot, Planes, & Drones 19:22

5M ago19:22

19:22

In this pilot episode, John explores airline baggage controversies, a passenger’s bizarre exit onto a plane wing, mysterious UFO sightings in New Jersey, and drone show malfunctions across the U.S. He wraps up with a reflection on Proverbs 4:13 and how to live with purpose. Season 1 - Episode 1 Sources: Spirit And Frontier Airlines Have Admitted Pa…

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Ep 93 - On Location - Two Fathoms Brewing - Winona, MN 43:20

5M ago43:20

43:20

Send us a text This week, the guys go to Two Fathoms Brewing in Winona, MN. This used to be Island City Brewing, but recently they had a name change. We are not sure if the ownership has changed as well or not. They have 9 beers currently on tap and we try them all! Here is what we had: 1. Grandma Glayds's Pickled Pilsner 2. Lawyers, Hops, and Mone…

1
Show Trailer 0:17

5M ago0:17

0:17

The first episode comes out on January 6, 2025! Can't Wait!!

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Ep 92 - Part 2 of Christmas Beers with Jim and Julie 1:18:59

5M ago1:18:59

1:18:59

Send us a text This week, we step of the ABV of some more Christmas beers that we found. Julie was nice enough to join us again and try these beers. We tried the following: 1. Rogue Santa's Private Reserve Mocha Stout 2. Great Lakes Christmas Ale 3. Boulevard Nut Cracker 4. Left Hand Brewing Nitro Candy Cane 5. Thunderhead Brewing Tiny Tim Christma…

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Ep 91 - Trying Christmas Beers with Jim and Julie 1:07:58

5M ago1:07:58

1:07:58

Send us a text This week, the guys try a number of Christmas and winter beers, and they see how they compare to each other and their expectations. Jim's wife Julie sits in and gives us her thoughts on them as well. The beers they try are: 1. Lazy Horse Brewing Salted Caramel Blonde 2. Great Lakes Brewing Cookie Exchange 3. Sam Adams Winter Lager 4.…

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Ep 90 - On Location - Maui Brewing with Suzy - Waikiki Hawaii 43:29

5M ago43:29

43:29

Send us a text This week Mike is joined by his wife Suzy in Waikiki, Hawaii and they stop at Maui Brewing. They discuss a number of places they are going and doing, while trying 8 of their year-round beer offerings. The beers that they try are: 1. Bikini Blonde Lager 2. Pau Hana Pilsner 3. Coconut Hiawa Porter 4. Da Hawaii Life Lite Lager 5. Big Sw…

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Episode 214: Fake Ceasefire Talks and Feigned 'Concern' - How US Media Helped Distance Biden From the Gaza Genocide 1:13:20

5M ago1:13:20

1:13:20

"White House frustrated by Israel's onslaught but sees few options," reports the Washington Post. "White House cancels meeting, scolds Netanyahu in protest over video," announces Axios. "Biden Works Against the Clock as Violence Escalates in the Middle East," asserts The New York Times. Since Oct. 7, 2023, we've heard seemingly endlessly that the B…

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Under the Weather: The Nexus of Climate Change and Biodefense 4:09:13

5M ago4:09:13

4:09:13

This Commission meeting, Under the Weather: The Nexus of Climate Change and Biodefense, was held on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 58 East 68th St., New York, NY 10065. The focus of this meeting was to provide the Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense with a better understanding of: 1) the effects of climate change on human health and one health, 2) t…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Checkered Thoughts Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen