Chapo Trap House

Seth Harp, an author and journalist focused on U.S. military and intelligence operations, dives deep into the complex world of 'zero units' and the ramifications of the National Guard shooting in D.C. He shares insights on Afghan veterans' struggles after resettlement, the dark side of CIA and JSOC operations, and past instances of extrajudicial killings. The conversation also touches on political fallout, implications of military orders, and the troubling mental health narratives of combat-exposed veterans, providing a gripping look at the intersection of violence and policy.

Comedian Sarah Squirm, known for her upcoming HBO special 'Live + In the Flesh,' dives into zany topics. She chats about the odd dynamics of Trump meeting New York's Zoran Mamdani, pondering whether the ex-president is starstruck or simply nostalgic. The conversation veers into Trump’s desire to revive 'Rush Hour' and stories from the White House pool, including a hilarious take on fecal incidents. Sarah also shares embarrassing personal anecdotes about, yes, shitting herself. Prepare for laughs and a sharp political critique!

Ed Zitron, a tech journalist known for his insights on AI and big tech, joins the discussion to unravel the complex finances behind companies like OpenAI. He reveals how high inference costs pose risks for tech firms and criticizes the unrealistic scaling ambitions of data centers. Zitron warns that a few power users could bankrupt AI companies, while also lamenting the overhyped potential of consumer-facing AI. As a humorous twist, he shares amusing dating advice from Bill Ackman, rounding out a conversation that blends serious analysis with levity.

Historian Greg Grandin, an expert on U.S.–Latin American relations, returns to discuss the escalating tensions surrounding Venezuela. He dives deep into the War on Drugs, revealing how it has been manipulated for violence and intervention. Grandin connects U.S. oil interests to foreign policy, critiques the Monroe Doctrine's enduring influence, and examines the complexities of Venezuelan politics, including Chávez's use of Bolivar's legacy. The conversation also touches on potential chaos from U.S. regime change efforts and the implications for the region.

Journalist Jasper Nathaniel returns from the occupied West Bank, sharing harrowing accounts of settler violence during olive harvest season. He recounts a shocking attack on an elderly woman, revealing the inadequate response from the Israeli military. Nathaniel discusses the broader dynamics of escalating violence and U.S. government indifference towards American victims. He also highlights how international attention can help deter further assaults and shares the personal stories that give a human face to the conflict. A gripping exploration of the realities faced on the ground.

Progressive New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani discusses his campaign's final sprint and his primary victory over Andrew Cuomo. He critiques Cuomo's desperate tactics and emphasizes the importance of grassroots canvassing to connect with voters. Zohran shares plans to protect New Yorkers from federal overreach and reform the NYPD while prioritizing rent control in his first 100 days. The conversation touches on the need for legal protections for immigrants in New York and includes a spirited prediction for the Knicks' season.

This call-in show dives into an array of intriguing topics. Hosts unpack predictions for a potential Trump second term and joke about Andrew Cuomo's post-political life options. They explore what contemporary literature should be shared with kids and nostalgically recommend classics. The conversation takes a quirky turn with gossip about John Fetterman and Jair Bolsonaro's mall adventures. Plus, cultural critiques on Saudi Arabia's art investments and reflections on the legacy of Warren Zevon add depth to the lively discussions.

Join sports-data expert Jon Bois, known for his engaging video essays at Secret Base, as he discusses a fascinating new series on mound charging in baseball. Bois delves into the history of baseball brawls, showcasing memorable incidents like Kyle Farnsworth vs. Paul Wilson. The conversation also touches on the quirks of NYC politics, including Curtis Sliwa's unusual proposals for parades and his controversial comments about the Jewish community. Plus, hear insights on Shohei Ohtani's historic run and the decline of spectacle sports.

Ryan Grim, editor at DropSite, and Jeremy Scahill, investigative journalist and co-founder of The Intercept, dive deep into the recent ceasefire in Gaza. They analyze why this ceasefire might differ from past ones and what it means for the region's future. The discussion touches on media coverage, including the controversy over images of malnourished children in Gaza and connections between pro-Israel figures and mainstream media narratives. They emphasize the importance of independent reporting and fact-based journalism in today’s landscape.

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.