Grounded with Jon Tester & Maritsa Georgiou

A Watershed Moment

Is this really where the United States of America is right now? In a press conference Friday morning, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox called what we’re living through a “watershed moment.” JT & MG share thoughts on Charlie Kirk’s murder after the political assassination of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman in Minnesota this summer. Where do we go from here as a country? How can we all do better? Plus, a conversation with filmmaker Steven Sawalich and Paul Mitchell co-founder John Paul DeJoria on Case For Kindness, a documentary that highlights the critical need for acts of kindness small and large.

Bright Future

Independent journalist + influencer Aaron Parnas joins Grounded to talk about his unique approach to news, which appeals to audiences young and old. He offers viewpoints on Trump, civics education, Ukraine and his future aspirations. How do we reach the younger generations? How do we fight against social media algorithms? Plus, what Parnas sees as the biggest challenge facing our country today.

New Rules

Former VP of the Pentagon Press Association Kevin Baron joins Grounded to discuss new restrictions on journalists covering the Pentagon. What does this mean for national security? What does this mean for your access to real information? How about the future of a free press? We unpack it all, including new pressure from the Trump administration to prosecute political rivals.

Statute of Limitations

On this mini episode of Grounded, we unpack the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey and its implications. Why now? What’s next? Plus, with the looming possibility of another government shutdown, there's new pressure from the Trump administration to make a deal. We breakdown what it all means.

Closed for Business

We’re officially in the first government shutdown in almost 7 years. While the blame game on Capitol Hill intensifies, federal government websites are adding a new tactic in the fight. We talk to Rep. Jason Crow of Colorado about where negotiations on health care go from here, messaging from the Democratic Party and his concerns about hospitals closing without a fix. As a former U.S. Army Ranger, we also get his take on the administration’s new messaging to top generals and admirals at Quantico. Plus, Jon and Maritsa have a new bet.

Locked Out

While the federal government shutdown drags on, the U.S. House of Representatives remains out of session. That’s a problem for newly-elected Adelita Grijalva, who just won a special election to fill her late father’s seat representing Arizona’s 7th Congressional District. Despite winning two weeks ago, House Speaker Mike Johnson has yet to swear her in. Why do some think this is about Jeffrey Epstein? What has she heard from Speaker Johnson? And what comes next? We ask her in this episode of Grounded. Plus, Jon Tester has JOKES!

Weathering the Storm

If you want to talk about agriculture, the weather, and the government shutdown, you’ve come to the right place. Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-IL), who serves on the House Committee on Agriculture, talks about his transition from being a TV meteorologist to a member of Congress. Sorensen and Tester do a deep dive on issues facing family farms and how to connect with voters of all political stripes in rural America. Plus, what does this ongoing shutdown mean for our weather alert systems?

Pickin’ & Grinnin’

It’s been a wild 10 days for country singer Bryan Andrews, whose new song (and corresponding spicy social media clips) about ICE raids, the Epstein files and economic woes launched him into viral stardom. We chat with Andrews about his decision to get political, the country music industry and what he hears from his rural friends and neighbors. Plus, if your name is Stephen Colbert or Jimmy Kimmel, wait until you hear his ultimate dream. Disclaimer: If you do not like swear words, this is not the episode for you!

Let Them Eat Cake

Historian Heather Cox Richardson returns to Grounded to talk shop with JT & MG. We cover everything from the demolition of the White House East Wing to McKinley parallels to threats of Trump 3.0 in 2028. What is the most surprising thing HCR has seen in the last nine months? What continues to give her hope? Who does she think is getting ready for a 2028 run? It’s a packed show!

Pop Quiz

Influencer Emily Amick, known as Emily in Your Phone, joins Grounded to discuss headlines and why more Americans are getting their news from social media than ever. We chat about a new partnership between the Trump administration and a spyware company, the ongoing government shutdown, SNAP payments and more. Plus, we tackle messaging deficiencies on the left and how people can become more engaged if they feel hopeless and/or overwhelmed. Don't forget to stay for JT's pop quiz.