#273 - John Sweeney - Alexei Navalny: Putin's Enemy Explained

Jan 23, 2021

John Sweeney, an investigative journalist known for his fearless reporting on Russia, dives into the tumultuous world of Alexei Navalny, Putin's most notable critic. He unveils the harrowing details of Navalny's poisoning and his bold return to Russia, emphasizing the growing support for his cause. Sweeney shares insights into Navalny’s charismatic leadership, innovative activism, and his battle against corruption. The discussion also touches on the future of Russia, exploring the interplay of digital influence and resistance against tyranny.

01:12:51

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ANECDOTE

Navalny’s Defiance

Alexei Navalny has been poisoned, imprisoned, and attacked with acid and paint, yet remains defiant.
He even released drone footage of Putin’s mansion, showcasing his audacity.

question_answer

ANECDOTE

The Fate of Putin Critics

John Sweeney recounts meeting three Russians critical of Putin: Anna Politkovskaya, Natasha Estemirova, and Boris Nemtsov.
All three, journalists and/or politicians, were subsequently shot dead, highlighting the danger Navalny faces.

insights

INSIGHT

Navalny’s Calculated Return

Navalny’s return to Russia coincided with Trump's departure and Biden's arrival, maximizing impact.
His video release about Putin’s palace, complete with a “hooker bar”, further intensifies the challenge.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

The Bravery of Alexei Navalny Against Kremlin Oppression

01:32 • 3min

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The Dangerous Gamble: Navalny vs. Putin

04:45 • 5min

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The Charisma and Struggles of Alexei Navalny

10:01 • 24min

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Resistance Against Tyranny: The Navalny Saga

34:07 • 28min

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A Glimpse into the Future of Russia: Resistance and Power Dynamics

01:01:51 • 4min

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Digital Influence and Political Repression in Russia

01:05:26 • 6min

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Adventures in Ukraine and Reflections on Russian Culture

01:11:21 • 4min

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#3460

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Thought reform and the psychology of totalism

a study of "brainwashing" in China

Robert Jay Lifton

This book, first published in 1961, is an analysis of the experiences of fifteen Chinese citizens and twenty-five Westerners who underwent brainwashing by the Chinese Communist government. Lifton outlines eight criteria for thought reform, including Milieu Control, Mystical Manipulation, Demand for Purity, Confession, Sacred Science, Loading the Language, Doctrine over person, and Dispensing of existence. The book explores the thematic pattern of death and rebirth, accompanied by feelings of guilt, that characterizes the process of thought reform and discusses its broader implications for the study of extremism and totalism.

#158

• Mentioned in 81 episodes

Animal Farm

George Orwell

Published in 1945, 'Animal Farm' is a novella that allegorically represents the Russian Revolution and the subsequent rise of Stalinism. The story begins with Old Major, a boar, inspiring the animals of Manor Farm to rebel against their human oppressor, Mr. Jones. After the rebellion, the animals rename the farm 'Animal Farm' and establish a utopian society based on the principles of equality and solidarity, known as Animalism. However, as time passes, the pigs, led by Napoleon and Snowball, consolidate power and gradually corrupt the original ideals, leading to a dystopian regime that mirrors the oppressive human rule they initially rebelled against. The novel critiques totalitarianism and the corrupting nature of power, reflecting Orwell's experiences and views on the Soviet Union under Stalin's rule.

#303

• Mentioned in 49 episodes

Nineteen Eighty-Four

George Orwell

Published in 1949, 'Nineteen Eighty-Four' is a cautionary tale set in a future where the world is divided into three totalitarian super-states: Oceania, Eurasia, and Eastasia. The novel follows Winston Smith, a minor functionary in the Ministry of Truth in Oceania, who begins to question the all-pervasive authority of the Party and its leader, Big Brother. Winston's rebellion, fueled by his forbidden love affair with Julia and his interest in the mysterious Brotherhood, ultimately leads to his capture and brutal reeducation by the Thought Police. The novel explores themes of mass surveillance, censorship, and the manipulation of truth, serving as a powerful warning about the dangers of unaccountable governments and the erosion of individual freedom and dignity.

#3349

• Mentioned in 8 episodes

A Man for All Seasons

Robert BOLT

The play, written by Robert Bolt, depicts the final years of Sir Thomas More, the 16th-century Lord Chancellor of England. It explores More's principled stance against King Henry VIII's desire to divorce Catherine of Aragon and his refusal to sign the Oath of Supremacy, declaring Henry the Supreme Head of the Church of England. The play delves into themes of conscience, identity, and the conflict between personal beliefs and political pressures. It follows More's journey from his position of power to his eventual execution, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his principles despite the severe consequences.

The Useful Idiot

John Sweeney

John Sweeney's "The Useful Idiot" is a fictional work set during Stalin's era, exploring the themes of propaganda, manipulation, and the spread of misinformation. The novel likely follows characters navigating the complexities of Stalinist Russia, facing challenges related to political repression and the pervasive influence of state-controlled narratives. The story probably highlights the dangers of unchecked power and the vulnerability of individuals caught in the web of political intrigue. Through fictional characters, the novel may offer insights into the historical context of Stalin's regime and the impact of propaganda on society. The book's title suggests a focus on individuals who unwittingly serve the interests of authoritarian regimes.

Stalin and His Hangmen

Donald Rayfield

This book by Donald Rayfield delves into the lives of Stalin's loyal assassins, including Felix Dzerzhinsky, Vyacheslav Menzhinsky, Genrikh Yagoda, Nikolai Yezhov, and Lavrentiy Beria. It examines their roles in Stalin's consolidation and maintenance of power, drawing on newly released archival material. The book provides a chilling portrayal of totalitarianism and its lasting impact.

The Compatriots

Irina Borogan

Andrei Soldatov

This book delves into the intricate history of Russian émigrés, detailing their influence on both Russia and the West. It explores how these individuals have been used by the Russian state for espionage and influence while also being a source of vulnerability. The narrative spans from the early 20th century to the era of Putin's Russia, highlighting the evolving dynamics between the Kremlin and its diaspora.

#54199

A Life on Our Planet

My Witness Statement and a Vision for the Future

Jonnie Hughes

David Attenborough

In this book, Sir David Attenborough shares his lifetime of wisdom, detailing the decline of the natural world and offering solutions for a sustainable future. The book is divided into three parts: a personal witness statement, an exploration of future challenges, and a vision for transforming society into a sustainable one.

John Sweeney is an investigative journalist and a writer.

There is a fascinating and incredibly dangerous poker game going on in Russia at the moment. The establishment versus the newcomer.

Expect to learn why Navalny is galvanising such support, how he survived poisoning with novichok, how he convinced one of his own assassins to admit to trying to kill him and why he once nearly became a pirate...

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Extra Stuff:

Navalny's YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsAw3WynQJMm7tMy093y37A

Buy Useful Idiot - https://amzn.to/3936FEz

Listen to Hunting Ghislaine - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/hunting-ghislaine-with-john-sweeney/id1539949999

Follow John on Twitter - https://twitter.com/johnsweeneyroar

Get my free Ultimate Life Hacks List to 10x your daily productivity → https://chriswillx.com/lifehacks/

To support me on Patreon (thank you): https://www.patreon.com/modernwisdom

Get in touch. Join the discussion with me and other like minded listeners in the episode comments on the MW YouTube Channel or message me...

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