Is the problem bad messaging—or is it something deeper? When legacy media starts copying podcasters and still can’t win back trust, what does that tell you?

The fellas—Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook—get into it as they break down a media landscape that’s clearly shifting, a government fight that’s hitting real people, and a growing gap between what’s being said… and what’s actually happening.

From CNN experimenting with a more “authentic” look to ongoing fallout from DHS funding issues, the conversation keeps circling back to one thing: credibility.

And if audiences don’t trust what they’re hearing anymore… where do they go?

In this episode…
CNN tests new formats but struggles with audience trust
DHS funding fight impacts TSA workers and travelers
Hack Madness returns and spotlights media figures
Cuba debate highlights contrast between messaging and reality

PLUS, A BAR BUILT TO “MONITOR THE SITUATION”… WITH NO WORKING SCREENS?!

We also sit down with Senator Bill Cassidy for a grounded look at what’s happening in Washington and how it’s affecting everyday Americans.

Special Guest: Senator Bill Cassidy
• DHS funding and TSA disruptions ✈️
• Healthcare affordability and policy priorities 🏥
• Stop Insider Trading Act in Congress 💼
• Louisiana Senate race and voter concerns 🇺🇸
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ruthless Podcast

Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan and John Ashbrook

Why CNN’s Demise is Accelerating

MAR 24, 2026102 MIN
Ruthless Podcast

Why CNN’s Demise is Accelerating

MAR 24, 2026102 MIN

Description

Is the problem bad messaging—or is it something deeper? When legacy media starts copying podcasters and still can’t win back trust, what does that tell you? The fellas—Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook—get into it as they break down a media landscape that’s clearly shifting, a government fight that’s hitting real people, and a growing gap between what’s being said… and what’s actually happening. From CNN experimenting with a more “authentic” look to ongoing fallout from DHS funding issues, the conversation keeps circling back to one thing: credibility. And if audiences don’t trust what they’re hearing anymore… where do they go? In this episode… CNN tests new formats but struggles with audience trust DHS funding fight impacts TSA workers and travelers Hack Madness returns and spotlights media figures Cuba debate highlights contrast between messaging and reality PLUS, A BAR BUILT TO “MONITOR THE SITUATION”… WITH NO WORKING SCREENS?! We also sit down with Senator Bill Cassidy for a grounded look at what’s happening in Washington and how it’s affecting everyday Americans. Special Guest: Senator Bill Cassidy • DHS funding and TSA disruptions ✈️ • Healthcare affordability and policy priorities 🏥 • Stop Insider Trading Act in Congress 💼 • Louisiana Senate race and voter concerns 🇺🇸 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices