Novara Media

Blindboy, the enigmatic Irish artist and podcaster known for his unique storytelling and masked persona, dives deep into the intertwining histories of Ireland and Palestine, revealing their shared struggles against colonial forces. He addresses the misappropriation of anti-colonial songs by the far-right in Ireland and critiques societal attitudes toward masculinity and mental health. With a blend of humor and history, Blindboy encourages greater emotional literacy and authentic connections in a rapidly changing world.

In this discussion, Harsha Walia, co-founder of 'No One is Illegal' and author of *Border and Rule*, dives deep into the escalating funding for ICE and the community's fightback against harsh migration laws. She emphasizes the interconnectedness of borders, capitalism, and systemic racism, arguing for a radical reassessment of labor and human rights. Walia also explores the complexities of migration in relation to indigenous rights and advocates for movements that promote solidarity and transformative justice against oppressive systems.

Karen Hao, a tech reporter and author of 'Empire of AI', delves into the hidden costs of the AI industry. She explores the traumatic realities of content moderation and draws striking parallels between OpenAI's evolution and historical entities like the British East India Company. Hao discusses the ethical dilemmas faced by engineers turned advocates, emphasizing the need for transparency. The conversation touches on grassroots activism, encouraging communities to engage with major tech companies and democratize AI resources for societal benefits.

In a thought-provoking exploration, the hosts delve into who handles cleaning in an ideal society, intertwining discussions on domestic chores with class politics and gender dynamics. They unpack the cultural meanings of cleanliness versus tidiness, revealing its emotional implications. The impact of historical standards on modern views surfaces, alongside the evolution of household technologies that shaped women's roles. Energetic songs about cleaning are celebrated, reflecting themes of liberation amid societal pressures. A multi-layered conversation that challenges perceptions of domestic labor!

Eskandar Sadeghi, an expert on Iranian politics and author of Revolution and its Discontents, delves into the complex history and current tensions between Israel and Iran. He highlights the fragile ceasefire and the potential for renewed conflict, considering U.S. involvement and the implications of military tactics. Sadeghi also discusses Iran's internal dynamics, the impact of sanctions on its citizens, and the strategic alliances with China and Russia. The conversation emphasizes how global geopolitics intertwine with local realities, affecting both nations profoundly.

Quinn Slobodian, a Canadian historian and author of 'Hayek's Bastards', shares insights on the far-right's ideologies reshaped by neoliberalism. He delves into their fixation on collapse, race, and the controversial narratives surrounding intelligence. Slobodian critiques how these ideas manifest in personal relationships and wider economic motivations, while exploring the influence of figures like Elon Musk on modern politics. He questions the future of capitalism in light of growing inequalities and the end of Fukuyama’s 'end of history' narrative.

Michael A. McCarthy, an associate professor at UCSC and author of 'The Master’s Tools,' dives into how financial deregulation has eroded democracy. He discusses the untapped power of the working class as owners of assets, advocating for their control over economic decisions. McCarthy critiques cryptocurrency’s false promise of equity and highlights the need for democratically-run institutions that prioritize community needs. With insights on financial activism and reform strategies, he envisions a future where the working class reclaims their financial sovereignty.

Joseph Stiglitz, a Nobel Prize-winning economist and former chief economist of the World Bank, delves into the disturbing collapse of American democracy and the roots of inequality. He critiques the Obama administration's missed opportunity during the 2008 crisis, arguing for accountability among financial institutions. The conversation also explores the impacts of globalization, the shift away from post-war stability under neoliberalism, and China's unique market socialism, offering insightful lessons for the West on economic strategy and human capital.

Jo Guldi, an Associate Professor of History at Southern Methodist University, delves into the fascinating history of land struggles globally. She discusses the enduring conflict over land ownership since agriculture's dawn and how these disputes shape today's socio-political landscape. Topics include the impacts of historical land reforms, the evolution of occupancy rights, and the role of grassroots movements in empowering communities. Guldi advocates for rethinking land governance and participatory democracy as solutions to ongoing disparities.

Ahmed Alnaouq, a Palestinian journalist and author, shares his heart-wrenching story of losing 21 family members in an Israeli airstrike while he was in the UK. He discusses the deep emotional toll of war on mental health in Gaza and highlights the urgent need for mental health support. Alnaouq reflects on the significance of education and storytelling, particularly through the 'We Are Not Numbers' initiative, to foster resilience amid trauma. He draws parallels between the struggles in Gaza and apartheid South Africa, advocating for global solidarity.