Ep. #539: John Kasich, Oliver Stone

In *Chasing the Light*, Oliver Stone recounts his first 40 years, from his complicated childhood to his experiences in Vietnam and his rise in Hollywood. The memoir offers insights into the making of iconic films like *Platoon*, *Midnight Express*, and *Scarface*, and explores his personal struggles and triumphs.

Thomas Frank's "The People Know" offers a concise yet insightful history of anti-populism in America. He examines the recurring attempts to discredit and undermine populist movements, revealing the strategies employed by elites to maintain their power. Frank's analysis highlights the enduring tension between the interests of the ruling class and the aspirations of ordinary citizens. The book provides a valuable historical context for understanding contemporary political struggles. It's a compelling read for anyone interested in the history of populism and its ongoing relevance in American politics.

In this book, Thomas Frank explores the transformation of Kansas from a state with a radical past to a stronghold of conservative politics. He argues that the culture wars have allowed the Republican Party to capture the populist language of social class, presenting themselves as the embodiment of working-class anti-elitism. Frank analyzes how conservatism, once associated with class privilege, became the creed of many ordinary Americans, particularly in Kansas, where workers and farmers support policies that often harm their own economic interests. The book critiques the role of the Democratic Party in neglecting its traditional support base, such as organized labor, and how this neglect has contributed to the rise of conservative politics[1][2][4].