Chapo Trap House

Séamus Malekafzali, a guest commentator and podcaster, joins the discussion on pressing global issues. He critiques Trump’s proposed Gaza peace plan and reveals its harsh realities. The talk dives into the potential for regime change in Venezuela and examines ICE’s aggressive tactics in Chicago. On a lighter note, they discuss Bari Weiss's influence at CBS and Tyler Cowen's controversial praise of AI-generated actors, raising questions about ethics and creativity in the digital age.

In this engaging discussion, Memo Torres, a Los Angeles reporter for L.A. TACO, shares his transition from food coverage to exposing the grim realities of ICE raids. He sheds light on the rising scale of these operations and the harrowing experiences faced by those detained, including systemic neglect and community fears. Memo provides essential advice for undocumented individuals on staying safe and highlights the importance of grassroots efforts in resisting ICE actions, emphasizing resilience and solidarity within affected neighborhoods.

Dive into the horror-filled hilarity of punks vs. zombies with a comedic twist in classic films. Explore the chaos following a zombie gas leak in 'Return of the Living Dead' and its punk archetypes. Discover the terrifying remake of 'The Blob,' where a motorcycle-riding bad boy faces a town-threatening monster. Expect visceral descriptions of grotesque scenes, clever commentary on government containment, and a nihilistic ending. It's a wild ride through horror's dark humor and unforgettable, stomach-churning moments!

Will Menaker, host and co-creator of Chapo Trap House, delves into the absurd world of right-wing weather conspiracy theories. He highlights bizarre claims like chemtrails and 'the sky is wrong,' reflecting on personal experiences with climate change, from Hurricane Sandy to shifting New York winters. Menaker critiques the politicization of disasters, especially during the Trump era, and discusses how conspiracies target meteorologists and local infrastructure. He emphasizes the need for collective action in the face of climate catastrophes.

Zue Jernstedt, a former U.S. Army soldier and volunteer with the Global Sumud Flotilla, shares her journey delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. She discusses the challenging conditions aboard the veteran crew’s sailboat, including nighttime sailing avoidance and recent attacks that damaged their vessel. Zue explains the flotilla's mission to create a humanitarian corridor and highlights the importance of their cargo, from baby formula to medical supplies. Personal reflections detail her transformation from soldier to activist, urging international solidarity.

Brendan James, co-host of Blowback and occasional producer, joins the crew to discuss Eric Adams's exit from the NYC mayoral race, sparking a critique of his public moments. They explore Adam Jentleson’s centrist PAC and its questionable strategies, along with a hilarious debate over whether Halloween decorations are 'evil.' Trump’s announcement to release Amelia Earhart files gets mocked, while they dive into Peter Thiel’s bizarre lectures on the Antichrist, revealing the surreal characters in attendance and their far-flung ideas.

Journalist Will Sommer from The Bulwark dives into the chaotic aftermath of Charlie Kirk's assassination. He discusses MAGA's dramatic response, framed as a revival at Kirk's memorial, featuring a campaign-style eulogy by Trump. The conversation explores wild conspiracies around the shooting, including claims of no exit wound and speculations on Israel's involvement. Sommer also addresses the ideological factions vying for Kirk's legacy, along with their influence on right-wing media, and the contentious debates over his supposed conversion to Catholicism.

Pablo Torre, a sharp journalist and host of "Pablo Torre Finds Out," joins the conversation to discuss the eerie political consequences of Charlie Kirk's assassination. They dive into the NFL's hidden collusion, starting with Deshaun Watson and revealing connections to billionaires and Hollywood's dark side. The chat highlights the ongoing struggle in player labor rights, comparing modern athlete contracts to historical labor dynamics. With humor and insight, they tackle quirky topics, including Kawhi Leonard's peculiar $28 million tree-planting gig.

Derek Davison, a Senior Foreign Policy correspondent known for his insights at American Prestige and Foreign Exchanges, joins the discussion on rising international tensions. They dive into Trump's controversial proposal to rename the Department of Defense to the Department of War. The conversation also explores an aborted Navy SEAL mission in North Korea, America’s military strategies in Venezuela, and the complexities of U.S. relationships with India and China. Additionally, Davison critiques the echoes of past interventions and the absurdities of current military narratives.

Brendan James, a returning guest known for his insightful takes on gaming culture, joins the conversation to explore the groundbreaking impact of Metal Gear Solid. They dive into its complex narrative, highlighting the duality of humor and serious themes. The pair discuss character dynamics, especially between Solid and Liquid Snake, and unpack memorable moments like the intense sniper battle with Sniper Wolf. They also reflect on Otacon’s emotional depth, intertwining real-world political references that enrich the game's storytelling.