Parallax Views w/ J.G. Michael

Victor Pickard, a renowned media policy expert and author, dives into America's troubled media landscape, particularly during the Trump era. He discusses the corrosive impact of media oligarchy on democracy and highlights the rise of news deserts as a threat to civic engagement. Pickard advocates for public funding of media and explores how reforming local journalism could restore integrity. The conversation also critiques sensationalized coverage and emphasizes the urgent need for ethical journalism to empower informed citizens.

Arno Rosenfeld, a reporter for The Forward, shines a light on the controversial Project Esther by the Heritage Foundation. He discusses how the project positions pro-Palestinian activism as a source of antisemitism, linking it to high-profile figures like George Soros. Rosenfeld critiques the project's conspiracy-laden approach, noting the divergence from traditional Jewish institutions in combating antisemitism. The conversation also navigates the complexities of Jewish identity and the evolving political landscape, urging a nuanced understanding of these sensitive issues.

In this fascinating discussion, Michael Meeropol, son of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, advocates for his mother's exoneration. He reveals insights from a newly declassified NSA memo purportedly proving Ethel's wrongful conviction for espionage. The conversation delves into the complexities of the Rosenberg case, including the controversial role of Judge Kaufman and the emotional journey of their sons. Meeropol emphasizes the ongoing quest for justice against systemic injustices amidst the chilling climate of the McCarthy era.

You're Listening to Parallax Views https://parallaxviews.podbean.com/ Support the Show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/parallaxviews On this edition of Parallax Views, Nikolas Schreck of the controversial cult deathrock/experimental band Radio Werewolf returns to discuss Wally George. For those unfamiliar, Wally George was the host of The Hot Seat, a popular talk show that aired in Southern California in the 80s into the 90s and even the 2000s before his passing. Dubbed the "Father of Combat TV", George provided a carnival-esque show which revolved around his shouting matches with various guests. On-air he presented himself as a conservative firebrand, complete with a John Wayne photo on his desk and an enlarged picture of a Space Shuttle blasting off behind him with the word "USA #1" written beneath. He'd bring on guests he deemed "sickos" and "freakos" including Satanists, marijuana legalization proponents, and, of course, liberals. In other words, Wally George pioneered the "Own the Libs" schtick/gimmick of Bill O'Reilly, Glenn Beck, and figures today like Ben Shapiro as well as being a precursor to the combative-and-chaotic talk show trash TV format of shows programs like the Jerry Springer Show. In recent years, there's been comparisons made between Wally George and President-elect Donald Trump, with most pointing out how both used a vulgar, combative style to appeal to their audiences. In fact, in 2016 Talking Points Memo referred to Wally George as the "Archeo-Trump". Nikolas Schreck, who was a practicing occultist whose band Radio Werewolf courted controversy, was a perfect fit for Wally George's The Hot Seat and he became a multi-time guest on the program. As such, Nikolas will be able to share his insight into Wally George and his audience. Some of those insights reveal George to be a consumate entertainer with a great deal of talent in terms of being able to provide a circus-like spectacle to his audience. However, Nikolas also notes a dark side to the kind of politics-as-entertainment Wally George brought to the table. In addition to Wally George and the parallels between Wally George and Donald Trump, Nikolas and I will also discuss the Satanic Panic and his analysis of how it connects to QAnon. As someone who was in the thick of the Satanic Panic, Nikolas has a great deal to say on this subject and will detail how he and his former wife have been targetted by QAnon. We will also discuss his analysis of Trump and MAGA, the vulgarian showbiz of GOP politics, the broken American male and the misogyny of right-wing influencers like Andrew Tate, the degeneration of American political discourse, why Schreck views Trump more as a Boss Tweed figure than a fascist, and much, much more.

Nina Burleigh, an award-winning investigative journalist and bestselling author, dives into the chaotic potential of a second Trump presidency and the bizarre dynamics of the modern GOP. She discusses her insightful piece, 'Trump 2.0: Here Comes the Night,' and reflects on the grotesque excesses of contemporary politics detailed in her Substack blog, American Freakshow. Nina also previews her new novel, Zero Visibility Possible, which tackles themes of disinformation and societal madness in today's America.

Journalist Patrick Hilsman, known for his work on conflicts in Syria and Ukraine, discusses leaked documents suggesting secret dealings between Assad's regime and Israel. These documents raise questions about the authenticity of regional alliances, especially regarding Hezbollah and Iran. Hilsman delves into the intriguing Israel-Russia relationship, particularly the influence of Israeli drone technology on Russian military tactics. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of Israel's export of surveillance technologies to authoritarian regimes, hinting at complex geopolitical relationships.

In this lively discussion, Matthew Petti, a contributor at Reason Magazine, shares insights into the bizarre surge of drone sightings in New Jersey. He draws intriguing parallels to historical UFO phenomena and highlights the sensational media claims, including wild theories about Iranian motherships. Petti unpacks the public's panic and its historical echoes, reminding listeners of the 'windshield pitting epidemic.' He also explores the broader implications of such narratives on national security and the delicate balance of digital freedom amid rising technology.

Matthew Petti, assistant editor at Reason Magazine and Fulbright Fellow, dives into pressing issues in the Middle East. He discusses the current state of Syria and the U.S. stance towards its new regime. The conversation critiques the narrative surrounding Jolani and HTS, questioning their portrayal. Petti analyzes Iran's tightening grip in the region and the challenges it faces, and shares insights on Turkey's ambitions post-Assad. The dialogue reflects on the resilience of the Palestinian identity amid political exclusion and ongoing violence.

George Meneshian, an Athens-based policy analyst specializing in the Caucasus and MENA regions, dives deep into the complexities of Syria's shifting political landscape. He discusses the potential fall of Bashar al-Assad and its implications, including the rise of the HTS and the challenges of regional stability. Meneshian analyzes Turkey's ambitions and the impact on Armenia and Azerbaijan, while also exploring how recent events, including the Hamas attack, have reshaped dynamics for Palestinians and Israel in the region.

In this engaging discussion, James W. Carden, a Middle Eastern politics expert and former U.S. State Department advisor, warns of escalating tensions with Iran fueled by neoconservative ideologies. He explores the implications of the Assad regime's overthrow, Israel's dynamic with Turkey, and the potential for conflict in Syria. Meanwhile, international relations analyst Eldar Mamedov delves into the effects on Armenia and Azerbaijan, analyzing the shifting power balance in the Caucasus and the fragile alliances forming against a weakened Iran.