Normally Podcast: Olympic Gold Pride, Newsom’s “I Can’t Read” Act, and NYC Subway Chaos

On this episode of Normally, Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz react to a disturbing security incident at Mar-a-Lago and the broader pattern of escalating threats against public officials—stories that vanish from the headlines far too quickly.

Then it’s time for a much-needed palate cleanser: Team USA’s Olympic hockey triumph, with both the men’s and women’s teams winning gold in overtime against Canada. Mary Katharine and Karol break down the gritty, emotional win—complete with missing teeth, family legacy, and the powerful tribute to fallen NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his family that had fans tearing up worldwide. Plus: the small controversy over Kash Patel celebrating with the team… and why most normal people don’t care.

From there, the hosts turn to Gavin Newsom’s latest “I’m just like you” routine, including the eyebrow-raising “I can’t read”/SAT score messaging and what it signals about his larger political rebrand—and media protection. They also dig into Bernie Sanders’ inability to answer a basic follow-up question about why the U.S. produces more successful businesses than Europe, and why “tax the billionaires” is not a plan.

Finally, Normally tackles the viral New York City debate no one should have to have: is urinating on a crowded subway car just part of urban life now? The hosts explain why “stop noticing” isn’t governance, and why normal people are done being told to accept dysfunction as compassion.

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