It's mid-century a go go here on the podcast of the decline of civilization as we talk of Mad Men and of James Brown.

First we talk with RJ Smith, author of The One: The Life and Music of James Brown, the new critically celebrated definitive biography of the Godfather of soul music.  We speak of his journey putting together the life of James Brown and how Brown

Then we speak with the bravest panel ever assembled on the internet: two entertainment experts who do not like Mad Men. Author Kathy Charles, and blogger Emily Yoshida discuss how the hype on the most beloved show by media in history leaves them nothing but cold.

And reflections on the nature of truth amidst the collapse of civilization.  

We talk of entertainment disasters and the foodie Tower of Babble with our guests this week.

First, our roundtable of entertainment intellectuals look at why, with all the money and expertise in Hollywood, do things so often come out so bad. We hash out the case study of Smash with our guests Rushfield Babylon stalwart Jim Gibson and TVguide.com's Executive Editor Denise Martin.

Then we take a visit into the farthest reaches of foodie culture with the co-inventor of the McNuggetini Alie Ward, co-host of the Cooking Network's Unique Sweets show, and expert in food exotic.  We discuss her journey as a viral food sensation, the annoyingness of Foodies and whether carrot cake is a dessert.

And as, ever, big thoughts about the collapse of civilization from your host, Richard Rushfield, editor of RushfieldBabylon.com.

This week we look at the secret world of American Idol and the importance of singing competitions in the fabric of our society.  Our guests from across the vast spectrum of Idoldom:

• Jim Cantiello: Veteran Idol chronicler for MTV and backstage correspondent of the XFactor.

• Ashley Ferl: American Idol's famed Crying Girl, now a grown up Crying Woman. 

• Leesa Bellesi: The stunning tale of the founder of AI Ministries, which has served the needs of a scores of Idol contestants and their families.

Plus: profound thoughts and interstitial music!