Discussion Forum—A Way with Words, a fun radio show and podcast about language

I'm sure I'm not the only one bothered by this one. I have heard it used by friends, family, and even a politician (although I can't at the moment remember which one). Sometimes, users even add a third "is".

Does anyone know where this phrase originated, and what are your substitution ideas to avoid its awkwardness. How about, "The point is..."?