the bill of rights
From teen diplomat to exhausted president to the “Madman from Massachusetts” in Congress, John Quincy Adams made his entire life a protest against slavery and corruption. He believed public service was a duty—not a grift—and proved it by outworking, outthinking, and outlasting everyone around him. He wasn’t here to charm you. He was here to do the damn work.
Now it's your turn. Stand up. Speak out. Do the work that matters. Tune in now!
buck wild
The Buck Wild Playlist is the rowdy, no-filter bonus corner of The Buck Starts Here where hosts Kyle and Eric ditch the measured analysis for pure, unhinged chaos.
This is presidential history turned up to eleven: savage roasts, brutal scoring systems, wild tangents, and zero-holds-barred takes on America's most forgettable, frustrating, and flat-out bonkers commanders-in-chief. From epic policy fails and personal disasters to the biggest historical cop-outs (looking at you, "states' rights"), Buck Wild episodes crank the humor, crank the side-eye, and deliver the kind of raw, laugh-out-loud commentary that makes even the dullest antebellum drama feel like a roast battle.
Think of it as the after-hours edition—where the economist's spreadsheets get thrown out, the history nerd goes feral, and every president gets judged without mercy or myth-making. Perfect for fans who love the main feed's sharp insights but crave the extra layer of irreverent, high-energy madness.
Part of the The Buck Starts Here family from China Shop Productions, Buck Wild drops sporadically as bonus mayhem. Hit play if you're ready for presidential history served straight-up savage, hilarious, and buck wild.
john quincy adams
From teen diplomat to exhausted president to the “Madman from Massachusetts” in Congress, John Quincy Adams made his entire life a protest against slavery and corruption. He believed public service was a duty—not a grift—and proved it by outworking, outthinking, and outlasting everyone around him. He wasn’t here to charm you. He was here to do the damn work.
Now it's your turn. Stand up. Speak out. Do the work that matters. Tune in now!
James Monroe
James Monroe, America’s fifth president, was a Revolutionary War veteran, key diplomat, and the mind behind the Monroe Doctrine. As the last Founding Father to hold office, Monroe’s legacy includes expanding U.S. influence, navigating the complexities of slavery, and leading during the so-called Era of Good Feelings—which wasn’t as peaceful as it sounds. His presidency shaped the future of American politics, foreign policy, and the nation’s struggle with its own ideals. Dive into Monroe’s fascinating life and impact with The Buck Starts Here podcast.
James Madison
James Madison: The OG Big Brain of American Democracy
James Madison—brilliant thinker, reluctant wartime leader, and the guy who had to flee when the British set the White House on fire. His presidency was a whirlwind of war, economic chaos, and some serious "well, that escalated quickly" moments. From masterminding the Constitution to barely surviving the War of 1812, Madison’s legacy is a mix of genius, struggle, and one badass First Lady who quite literally saved history. Was he a visionary or just in way over his head? Press play and find out.
thomas jefferson
Thomas Jefferson—freedom fighter or hypocrite in chief?
Eric and Kyle dig into the life of the man who wrote about liberty… but also owned slaves. From the Louisiana Purchase to his complicated relationship with Sally Hemings, Jefferson’s story is full of contradictions that’ll make your head spin. You won’t want to miss this one.
John adams
Meet John Adams—America’s second president, a founding father who was never one to keep quiet. Born in Braintree, Massachusetts, he didn’t inherit power but fought his way to the top with intellect, determination, and a knack for making enemies.
After losing the election to Jefferson, Adams set a vital precedent by stepping aside peacefully, showing that democracy was bigger than any one leader. Adams didn’t just leave behind a legacy; he left an indelible mark on American history.
George Washington
In these inaugural episodes, we’re taking a deep (and quirky) dive into George Washington—the “Father of His Country” and America’s first president, our reluctant leader.