Alex Sammon

In this engaging conversation, Alex Sammon, a politics writer at Slate, dives into the explosive rise of avocado consumption in the U.S. and its profound effects on Mexico. He highlights how aggressive marketing transformed the avocado into a superfood while revealing dark undercurrents like environmental destruction and violence linked to organized crime. Sammon also shares stories of community resilience, detailing how local people banded together to protect their resources from exploitative practices, emphasizing the dire need for sustainable consumption in the avocado industry.

Alex Sammon, a politics writer at Slate, dives into America's avocado obsession and its profound impact on Mexico. He explores the avocado's transformation into a superfood, driven by savvy marketing. However, this popularity comes with troubling realities, including environmental degradation and violence linked to drug cartels. Sammon also highlights local resistance efforts against harmful practices, showcasing community struggles for water and the fight to protect their land. The episode underscores the urgent need for reevaluation of avocado consumption in light of its adverse effects.

Alex Sammon, Slate politics writer, discusses the division within the Democratic Party over Israel policy. The podcast explores the strained relationship between progressives and the party, the influence of the Israel lobby, and the potential consequences of APAC's growing power.