Countdown with Keith Olbermann
iHeartPodcasts
“Countdown With Keith Olbermann,” the landmark news and commentary program that reordered the world of cable news, returns as a daily podcast. Olbermann’s daily news-driven mix will include his trademark “Special Comment” political analysis, the tongue-in-cheek “Worst Persons In The World” segment, and his timeless readings from the works of the immortal James Thurber. The man who turned SportsCenter into a cultural phenomenon will broaden the content to include a daily sports segment, a daily call for help for a suffering dog, and a remarkable series of anecdotes covering a career that stretched from covering the 1980 Olympic Miracle on Ice a month after his 21st birthday, to anchoring the 2009 Presidential Inauguration and the 2009 Super Bowl pre-game show in a span of just twelve days, to rejoining ESPN as a “rookie” baseball play-by-play man at the age of 59.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 18, 2025 • 1h 3min
KIRK DIED BECAUSE OF TRUMP'S RHETORIC; KIMMEL CANCELLED AS DISNEY FOLDS - 9.18.25
The discussion delves into the troubling consequences of Trump's rhetoric, tying it to recent acts of violence and the culture of political intimidation. It highlights the tragic case of Charlie Kirk, emphasizing the dangers created by toxic political discourse. The podcast also examines the fallout from Jimmy Kimmel's suspension and the broader economic challenges facing late-night television amid corporate pressures. Additionally, there's a tribute to Robert Redford's impactful career, blending nostalgia with personal anecdotes.
Sep 18, 2025 • 17min
BULLETIN: BOB IGER, ABC AND DISNEY FOLD TO FASCISTS, SUSPEND KIMMEL - 9.17.25
The podcast dives into the controversial suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! after his comments on Charlie Kirk's assassination. It examines how political pressures from the FCC and Nexstar influenced ABC's decision. Olbermann highlights the dangers of censorship and discusses Bob Iger's capitulation to these forces. The conversation also touches on the troubling precedent this sets for free speech and the implications for late-night commentary. Expect sharp insights and a critical view on the state of media and democracy.
19 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 1h 15min
KILMEADE: KILL THE HOMELESS. AND THE WORST ATTACKS ON KIRK? BY FUENTES AND LOOMER - 9.15.25
A morning news anchor faces public outrage over shocking comments advocating extreme measures against the homeless. The discussion highlights the dangerous implications of such rhetoric in today's political climate. The conversation also touches on the leadership vacuum in U.S. authoritarian movements and critiques right-wing influencers who mask radical beliefs. Media scandals, political accountability, and the hypocrisy in corporate media further complicate the landscape. This podcast delivers a deep dive into controversial topics shaping current discourse.
7 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 60min
TRUMP DOESN'T REALIZE RUSSIA HAS ATTACKED POLAND - 9.11.25
The discussion kicks off with a sharp critique of the former president's failure to grasp the implications of Russia's drone attack on Poland. Historical parallels highlight the dangers of ignoring international threats. The podcast then dives into pressing energy demands on the U.S. electric grid, suggesting propane as a cleaner alternative. Reflecting on 9/11, it examines the emotional and political repercussions over two decades, and explores media integrity amidst a landscape of political betrayal and journalistic compromises. A mix of humor lightens the weighty themes.
Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 9min
VANCE MUST RESIGN. AND JOHNSON IS STILL CLAIMING TRUMP WITNESSED EPSTEIN - 9.8.25
The Vice President faces harsh criticism for advocating military actions against migrants. As speculation swirls about Trump's alleged ties to Epstein, political hypocrisy takes center stage. Media manipulation is called out when Trump gets booed at the U.S. Tennis Open and major networks choose not to air the truth. Discussions dive into the influence of AI in film restoration and the biases seen in media coverage. Finally, a humorous anecdote about an encounter with Mickey Mantle highlights the intersection of sports and politics.
4 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 1min
TRUMP ISN'T DEAD. AND HE'S MAKING SURE, NEITHER IS HIS EPSTEIN SCANDAL - 9.4.25
The podcast dives into the enduring fallout from the Epstein scandal, particularly its implications for Trump. It critiques his political maneuvers and the shadowy attempts to control the narrative surrounding released documents. The discussion also highlights Trump's peculiar public absence and the intertwining of misinformation with right-wing media narratives. Additionally, it examines controversial political alliances and the hypocrisy within both media and political circles, revealing how these dynamics shape public perception and accountability.
Sep 1, 2025 • 1h 10min
THE TRUMP DEATH RUMOR WAS ENTIRELY TRUMP'S FAULT - 9.1.25
The hosts dive into the whirlwind of health rumors surrounding a certain prominent figure, dissecting how misinformation can spiral out of control. They question the silence from the White House, suggesting it only fuels speculation about leadership stability. The podcast also touches on the strange nexus between Trump’s reported health and the media's role in shaping narratives. Additionally, there's a humorous exploration of a potential crisis in baseball involving Tommy John surgeries, alongside a farewell to a beloved figure—plenty of thought-provoking discussions!
8 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 1h 5min
TRUMP MIGHT AS WELL HAVE SHOT THOSE KIDS IN MINNEAPOLIS HIMSELF - 8.28.25
The podcast dives into the serious implications of gun violence in America, critiquing political responses to recent tragedies. It condemns the rhetoric surrounding crime while urging for real accountability in leadership. With a focus on the moral failures of public figures, the conversation highlights how fear-mongering overshadows necessary gun control measures. Humorous insights are also shared on the media’s sensationalism and the transformation of conservative influencers, making for a thought-provoking yet entertaining exploration of today's political climate.
Aug 25, 2025 • 56min
IS TRUMP DYING OR IS HE JUST FINE? ANYBODY GONNA ASK? - 8.25.25
The podcast dives into the swirling speculation surrounding Donald Trump's health, questioning whether he’s facing a serious crisis or just chronic venous insufficiency. It critiques the media's focus on his deteriorating appearance compared to Joe Biden’s past cognitive concerns. The discussion brings to light Trump’s alarming physical changes and political tactics, highlighting the odd disconnect in coverage. Alongside serious topics, there's humor woven in regarding political scandals, consumer culture, and even a look at historical baseball conduct.
Aug 21, 2025 • 1h 15min
BILL BARR AND JAMES COMER RE-IGNITE TRUMPSTEIN COVER-UP - 8.21.25
In a whirlwind discussion, revelations from Bill Barr and Jamie Comer reignite the Trumpstein cover-up debates. Barr's claims of ignorance on Epstein's files get called out, hinting at more concealed truths. Meanwhile, Trump’s stalling tactics in Ukraine come under scrutiny, raising concerns about Russian influence. The podcast doesn’t shy away from humor, introducing the delightful moniker 'Pee Wee German' for Stephen Miller. Additionally, Karoline Leavitt's latest verbal slip-ups add comedic relief to the serious political commentary.
