Vicky Osterweil

Mia chats with Vicky Osterweil, a writer and organizer renowned for her incisive insights on fascism and social movements. They delve into the shocking Tesla car bombing incident, linking it to historical political violence. Discussion highlights include the 'strategy of tension' in America, the absurdities of modern political chaos, and the rise of extremist ideologies. They also explore how neoliberalism fosters dependency and the power of grassroots movements in empowering communities to combat oppression.

Vicky Osterweil, an author and writer known for her book 'In Defense of Looting', joins the conversation to unpack the political climate during Trump's second term. They discuss the alarming rise of fascism and mass deportations, emphasizing the importance of grassroots movements. Vicky critiques how health is weaponized against marginalized communities, advocating for resilience and community organizing. As they reflect on existential joys, the duo urges listeners to find everyday revolutionary actions that foster hope and change in challenging times.

This week, artist and musician Precious Child shares their experiences with far-right harassment and the challenges of online censorship. David Roth dives into the highlights and ethical concerns from the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), revealing the future of AI toys for children. Meanwhile, Vicky Osterweil discusses the provocative concept of "Years of Lead Paint," connecting it to contemporary political crises and the persistent threats facing marginalized communities. These discussions blend humor, urgency, and insightful commentary on art, technology, and activism.

In this captivating discussion, artist Precious Child shares their journey as a musician facing far-right backlash for their exploration of gender and identity. Journalist David Roth reflects on the wild innovations showcased at CES, including AI toys that spark ethical debates about child companionship. Writer Vicky Osterweil draws provocative connections between historical and modern political violence, underscoring the urgency for activism in the contemporary landscape. Together, they tackle pressing social issues with insight and humor.

Shuli Branson, a writer and teacher from New York, Carla Joy Bergman, an artist and mother from Canada, and Vicky Osterweil, a writer from Philadelphia, delve into the power of collective media in the face of upheaval. They discuss their experiences in anarchist activism and the vital role of solidarity in writing. The guests reflect on the challenges of fragmentation in media, the symbolism of crows in resilience, and the crucial nature of grassroots movements in cultural activism. Their insights highlight the need for collaborative creativity in contemporary society.