Matt Bracken and James Howard Kunstler #1258

Nov 27, 2025

James Howard Kunstler, a novelist and social critic known for his insights on society, and Matt Bracken, a Navy SEAL author and historian, join forces to dive into intriguing topics. They discuss Kunstler's latest novel, Look, I'm Gone, set during JFK's assassination, exploring its cultural connections. The duo also debates Bitcoin's viability, Europe's political turmoil, and the fragility of the housing market. Additionally, they reflect on the influence of Catcher in the Rye and the alternate history of early America's visitors. A thought-provoking conversation packed with insights!

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ANECDOTE

Novel Set During Kennedy Assassination

James Howard Kunstler describes his novel set in 1963 about a 12-year-old boy during the Kennedy assassination.
The book features a fictionalized J.D. Salinger and blends coming-of-age misadventures with historical detail.

ANECDOTE

Personal Memory Of Kennedy Coverage

Matt Bracken recalls his early memory of the Kennedy assassination and its national impact.
He vividly remembers the funeral procession and young John F. Kennedy Jr.'s salute on television.

INSIGHT

Coinage Shows Money's Changing Nature

Kunstler highlights how real silver coinage in 1963 made small cash meaningful and portable.
He connects coinage changes to the broader shift from commodity money to fiat currency in the 1960s–70s.

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