Embedded

Zach Mack's father, a bold thinker with unconventional beliefs, shares his ten predictions that sparked a family bet. The discussion reveals stark contrasts between his bold forecasts and the current political landscape, particularly around Trump and Biden. Tensions around differing beliefs within the family come to a head, especially concerning identity acceptance. Their heartfelt conversations reveal both emotional complexities and a glimmer of hope for reconciliation as they navigate love, judgment, and understanding amidst their diverging perspectives.

A reporter bets his father on politically apocalyptic predictions, leading to a deep dive into familial ideological divides. The discussion reveals how conspiracy theories strain relationships, highlighting generational patterns and stubbornness. Emotional dialogues between father and child shed light on the challenges of addressing misinformation and the quest for understanding amidst conflicting beliefs. Insights from a political scientist emphasize the psychological roots of these convictions, making the journey toward connection both poignant and hopeful.

In a captivating discussion, reporter Zach Mack shares his journey investigating his father's dive into conspiracy theories. He reveals their emotional struggle as they clash over radical beliefs, with Zach fearing his father’s radicalization while his dad believes Zach is misinformed. Their unique bet of $10,000 over predictions for 2024 adds tension to their dynamic. By exploring deeply held beliefs and societal fears, they navigate the challenges of understanding contrasting perspectives within their family. Can they bridge their ideological divide?

Zach Mack and his dad are living in separate realities, and it's tearing their family apart. Like so many Americans, Zach's dad has gotten swept up in conspiracy theories. After years of circular arguments, the father challenged his son to a bet: $10,000 on ten politically apocalyptic predictions that would all happen in 2024.In this three-part series, we follow Zach on an intimate journey to bring his father back from the rabbit hole. All episodes will be available for NPR+subscribers on February 21 and for all listeners on February 23.To listen to this series sponsor-free and get early access, sign up for Embedded+ in Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Sean Roberts, a renowned professor at George Washington University and author on Uyghur issues, joins Rob Schmitz, an NPR reporter with extensive coverage of the Uyghur crisis. They delve into the rich cultural identity of the Uyghur people, discussing their traditions, music, and the oppressive challenges they face in China. The conversation highlights the impact of the 9/11 attacks on China's policies, the harsh realities of detention camps, and the resilience of the Uyghur community amid efforts to erase their existence.

Explore the gripping journey of the Kuchar family struggling against geopolitical pressures while trying to share their story. Delve into Sabar Baghda's complex role as a businessman caught between aiding Uyghurs and facing mistrust. Uncover the moral turmoil of individuals surveilling their own community under China's oppressive regime. Learn about the psychological impacts of navigating identity and allegiance within a state of control. The discussion culminates in reflections on identity and heritage amidst adversity, emphasizing the power of journalism.

Abdullatif Kucar, a Uyghur father and vocal advocate for his community, recounts his heart-wrenching journey to reunite with his children, taken by state-run boarding schools amidst Chinese government oppression. He shares the emotional toll of separation and the stranglehold of surveillance that complicates his search. The podcast dives into the psychological scars faced by Uyghur children and highlights the broader implications of these experiences on identity and resilience. Kucar's relentless quest exemplifies a father's love against a backdrop of geopolitical strife.

Emily Feng, NPR's dedicated China correspondent, dives deep into the harrowing story of Abdullatif Kucar, a Uyghur man searching for his wife and children detained by the Chinese government. She highlights the oppressive realities faced by Uyghurs in Xinjiang, revealing the emotional toll of their separation. The podcast also touches on the historical context of the Uyghur struggle against oppression and the deceptive narratives surrounding the detention camps. Personal testimonies and leaked documents provide a poignant look into their plight.

This is the story of a people being erased, one family at a time. For almost a decade, the Chinese government has been detaining hundreds of thousands of ethnic Uyghurs in what critics call a systematic attempt to dismantle their culture. And since the beginning, NPR correspondent Emily Feng has reported on these detentions, which were described by the United Nations as possibly constituting crimes against humanity. In this three-part series, Emily follows one man desperately trying to reunite with his wife and children. Along the way, she uncovers surprising new details about some of the Uyghurs enabling this massive surveillance state. To listen to this series sponsor-free and support NPR, sign up for Embedded+ in Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Explore the gripping case of Sergeant Joshua Abate, caught in the crosshairs of military ethics after January 6. Hear contrasting courtroom arguments about his actions and the implications for the Marine Corps. The podcast scrutinizes extremism within military ranks and the efforts to define it amidst political tensions. Delve into the impact of oaths and shifting politics on military integrity. Personal stories and testimonies unfold the struggle between individual beliefs and collective responsibility in a transforming military culture.