My Family Thinks I'm Crazy cover image

My Family Thinks I'm Crazy

Riley Waggaman | Global Panopticon, Russia Today, and Covert Convergence

Aug 8, 2024
Riley Waggaman, a journalist and ex-pat living in Russia, shares his insights on global surveillance and the geopolitical landscape. He discusses his disillusionment with mainstream media after his anti-vaccine stance, opting for independent writing to explore life away from the technocratic grind. The conversation dives into Russia's political intricacies, the impact of major corporations during global conflicts, and the delicate balance of personal freedom in a digital age. Waggaman paints a vivid picture of rural life as a contrast to urban control.
01:39:39

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Riley Waggaman's disillusionment with mainstream journalism led him to write independently, emphasizing the importance of personal freedom and rural living away from societal surveillance.
  • The podcast highlights the contrasting perceptions of Russia, illustrating a vibrant internal discourse that often challenges Western media's portrayal of the nation as a purely oppressive regime.

Deep dives

Gorbachev's Ouster and Emerging Chaos

The recent removal of Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev has led to a significant shift in power dynamics, with tanks seen rolling through Moscow. This upheaval is marked by Vice President Gennady Yanayev declaring himself the acting president, signaling a potential regression from democratic practices. The chaotic conditions expose a lack of transparency and increasing censorship, as the public faces an uncertain future while grappling with widespread economic distress. The atmosphere resembles a surveillance state where people's movements and choices are closely monitored, raising concerns about civil liberties and personal freedoms.

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