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What Does It Mean? with John Dempsey
Is There Life Beyond Earth? Astronaut Tom Jones Weighs In on Breakthrough Discovery
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In this episode of What Does It Mean?, retired NASA astronaut and planetary scientist Tom Jones joins John Dempsey to discuss the James Webb Space Telescope’s detection of possible biosignatures on the distant exoplanet K2-18b. Jones explains what the discovery of certain gases could mean for the search for extraterrestrial life and why it's such a groundbreaking moment in astronomy. He also shares insights from his new book Space Shuttle Stories and reflects on the legacy of human spaceflight.
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Inside Operation Greylord: The Undercover Mission That Shook Cook County
44:25|Terry Hake joins John Dempsey to share the incredible true story of how he went undercover in Operation Greylord, exposing widespread corruption in Chicago’s court system. As a young assistant state’s attorney turned FBI operative, Hake helped convict dozens of crooked judges, attorneys, and officials, at great personal cost. This gripping conversation explores the emotional toll, the courtroom drama, and the lasting impact of one of America’s biggest corruption busts.Tariffs, Rates, and Reckoning: George Lucaci on the Trump Economy
30:12|Wall Street veteran George Lucaci joins John Dempsey to break down the economic volatility of Trump’s second term. From the president’s tariff threats and attacks on Fed Chair Jerome Powell to the long-term dangers of rising national debt, Lucaci explains what’s driving the markets—and what could derail them. It’s a candid, wide-ranging conversation about interest rates, inflation, and whether trickle-down economics was ever more than a myth.Andy Shaw on Trump, Media, and the Future of Politics
01:00:18|Legendary Chicago political reporter Andy Shaw joins John Dempsey for a candid conversation about Trump’s rise, the fractured state of American media, and the political future of figures like Brandon Johnson and JB Pritzker. From insider stories at ABC7 to his thoughts on housing, polarization, and what Democrats get wrong, Shaw pulls no punches. Plus: a personal story about marijuana at the 2004 DNC and life in retirement between Michigan and Mexico.Why Trump’s Base Stays Loyal—Even When It Hurts Them
35:27|Political scientist David McLennan joins John Dempsey to unpack why Donald Trump’s base remains loyal—even when his policies hurt them. They discuss emotional politics, the recent Medicaid-cutting “Big Beautiful Bill,” and the future of the GOP after Trump. Plus: Why Senator Thom Tillis bowed out and what it means for 2026.The Courage to Ask — Paul Quinn on Getting What You Want
29:56|In this episode of What Does It Mean?, John Dempsey talks with author, actor, and corporate coach Paul Quinn about the power of asking for what you want in life. Quinn shares insights from his new book, The Big Ask, including why so many people fear asking and how to overcome that resistance with courage and clarity. Packed with real-life stories and practical tools, this conversation offers a roadmap to unlocking personal and professional breakthroughs.From Tea Party to Trump Critic: Joe Walsh on Politics, Regret, and the Road Ahead
32:23|John Dempsey sits down with former congressman and presidential candidate Joe Walsh for an unflinching conversation about his political transformation from Tea Party firebrand to outspoken critic of Donald Trump. Walsh discusses the personal and professional cost of turning against the MAGA movement, his disillusionment with the Republican Party, and his frustrations with a Democratic Party that he believes has lost touch with working-class voters.Rory’s Redemption: A Masters for the Ages
32:38|John Dempsey stopped by John Howell's podcast "As I Was Saying" to relive Rory McIlroy’s dramatic victory at the 2025 Masters. The two discuss McIlroy’s emotional journey, his long-awaited Grand Slam, and the tournament’s unforgettable moments. They also weigh in on the state of professional golf, the culture at Augusta, and the future of the game.Ted Rossman on Tariffs, Credit Card Debt, and the Cost of Living
21:40|John Dempsey speaks with Ted Rossman, Senior Industry Analyst at Bankrate.com, about how rising tariffs and inflation are affecting American consumers. Rossman explains why current market volatility feels different from past crises and offers practical advice for managing personal finances during uncertain times. From credit card debt to side hustles, this episode is packed with insights to help listeners stay financially resilient.