Varn Vlog

Uncover the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with me and esteemed guest Mason Herson-Hord, director of the Institute for Social Ecology. Together, we'll navigate the often misunderstood narratives and ideologies that have shaped this historical struggle. From the deep-seated roots of Zionism to the rise of grassroots resistance movements, this discussion offers an enlightening perspective on the events and figures that have influenced the region's political evolution.In a series of candid conversations, we trace the contours of power and politics, dissecting the Six-Day War's transformative impact, the emergence of local Palestinian councils during the First Intifada, and the fusion of extremist ideologies within Israeli mainstream politics. It's a journey through the decades, examining the interplay of socio-economic factors, the fracturing of Zionist unity, and the rise of new voices challenging established narratives. Our dialogue scrutinizes the influence of figures like Meir Kahane and Yitzhak Rabin, as well as the implications of the second Intifada on current political stances.Our exploration culminates with a present-day analysis of the strategies employed by groups like Hamas, the concerning trends among Israeli youth, and the shifting attitudes within the American Jewish community towards Zionism. As we grapple with the international complexities of this conflict, the importance of grassroot movements and the power of community action are emphasized. Join us for a thought-provoking episode that not only sheds light on a deeply entrenched conflict but also inspires active participation in the pursuit of a just and lasting peace.We discuss this article: https://strangematters.coop/israel-gaza-war-genocide/Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon

Reflect on the pages of history with us as we unravel the complexities of the Soviet Union's past alongside the insightful minds from Cosmonaut Magazine—Donald , Christian, and Connor . Our engaging discussion takes us through the ideological and economic tensions of the Russian Revolution, shining a light on the nuances of the New Economic Policy and the philosophical struggles within the Bolshevik party. We promise you a deeper understanding of the significant historical shifts and the moral implications of Stalin's leadership, challenging long-held narratives with a critical eye.Join our conversation as we explore the broader canvas of Marxist ideologies, state power, and the practicalities of managing a socialist economy. We'll tackle controversial topics, such as the historiography of Stalin and the paradoxes of anti-war sentiments, with a careful examination of the interrelations between global events and the shifting tides within communism. Our guests from the Cosmo Pod podcast bring fresh perspectives to these discussions, making this episode an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the geopolitical repercussions that continue to shape contemporary issues.As we conclude this thought-provoking voyage, we delve into the societal impacts of war and the lingering psychological legacy of the 20th century's traumas. The series wraps up with reflections on the balance between individual rights and state power, critiques of economic planning in the Soviet context, and the ideological shifts that have occurred within the left. Prepare to leave with a profound understanding of the complexities and human costs of revolutionary change, courtesy of our esteemed guests and their compelling contributions to this series.Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon

Embark on a journey into the chilling depths of Michael Shea's weird fiction with the insightful Danny Anderson as our guide. As we unravel Shea's unique spin on cosmic horror, you'll discover how this master of the macabre carved out a space that's both hauntingly familiar and alarmingly otherworldly. Together, we illuminate the dark corners of class struggle and revolution woven into the fabric of Shea's narratives, and celebrate the unorthodox heroes that populate his tales. This episode promises to draw you into a discussion that's as profound as it is unsettling, showcasing the enduring power and relevance of Shea's stories in today's weird fiction landscape.Danny and I navigate through Shea's metafictional world, where the barrier between the real and the imagined thins to a mere wisp, and the monstrous entities of Lovecraftian lore take on an almost palpable presence. We delve into the craft of Shea's storytelling, reflecting on his portrayal of characters shaped by raw experience rather than literary convention, and how this lends a gripping authenticity to his work. Through our conversation, you'll appreciate the finesse with which Shea balances gritty social commentary with the ineffable horror of the unknown, challenging you to reconsider the very nature of horror narrative.As we cap off our exploration, we pay homage to Shea's intricate narrative voice and the haunting themes that stitch his work together. Delving into the power of witnessing, the complexities of class dynamics, and the subversion of Lovecraft's cosmic indifference, we uncover the layers that make Shea's fiction resonate so deeply. And as we acknowledge the impact of authors like T.E.D. Klein and Caitlín R. Kiernan, we also tip our hats to Mark Fisher's critical insight, offering a fresh perspective on the weird and the eerie a decade after his influential essay. Prepare to be captivated by a conversation that not only celebrates a literary maestro's legacy but also plunges into the philosophical undercurrents of horror and humanity.Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon

What do the Australian political landscape and the struggle for social justice look like under the microscope? Join us on a journey that traverses the fascinating contours of Australian politics, history, and culture, guided by our esteemed guest, Farron. A thorough exploration awaits, from the complexities of maintaining ethnic identity in Australia to the rise of evangelicalism and the impact of American culture on Australian politics. In the course of our engaging and enlightening discourse with Farron, we pull back the curtain on Australia's unique political economy and the intricate tapestry of class dynamics influenced by settler colonialism and racial nuances. We probe the depths of Australia's position as a core periphery in the global capitalist system and the tug-of-war between aligning with the US or China. We also bring to light the state of leftist traditions and social movements in Australia, from the inspiring indigenous struggles against racism and colonialism to the ongoing debate surrounding the Uluru statement from the heart. As we channel our exploration to its finale, Farron generously shares a selection of recommended readings and resources to further enrich your understanding of the pulsating world of Australian politics and culture. Among these are books such as "New Britannia" and "White Possessive," and the engaging podcast, "Crimes of Class." Don't miss out on this profound and enlightening discourse that presents an in-depth understanding of the socio-political dynamics of Australia. Your perspective on Australian politics, history, and culture will never be the same again.Dave Eden is a Brisbane-based communist writer and podcaster who authors the blogs With Sober Senses and The Word From Struggle Street. He costs the anti-capitalist podcast Living The Dream  with Jon Piccini.Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon

Ever wondered how the political landscape of Ireland shapes its global presence? Get ready to unravel the complexities of Irish politics with our guest, Professor Nicholas Kiersey, an acclaimed expert on the matter. We kick off our conversation with a fresh perspective on the recent events in Ireland, the seismic shift in public consciousness during the 2008 economic crisis, and its aftermath. Together, we analyze the cultural influences and the perceptions of economic virtue in Ireland, and how these have been shaped by historical and contemporary events. In the throes of our discussion, we navigate through the influence of the Irish Labour Party, its alignment with the Brahmin left, and how neoliberalism has altered the political scene in Ireland. We draw parallels with center-left parties across Europe and the Americas, examining Brexit's ripple effect on Ireland's relationship with the EU, and the unique role Irish immigrants play in East Asia's teaching realm. We also grapple with the challenges faced by the left, the absence of a parallel economy in Ireland, and the broader implications of these on the global stage. As we wrap up, our discourse takes a fascinating turn towards the Occupy movement in Ireland, with riveting insights from guest speaker Occupy IR Theory. We dissect the current state of global affairs, the war, and the use of RICO charges. What's more, we delve into the evolving Dublin cityscape, the generational shift, class politics, the housing crisis, and the transformation of Sinn Fein, all painting a comprehensive picture of Irish politics. Join us for this riveting exploration that promises an in-depth understanding of Irish politics and its global implications. You wouldn't want to miss it!Nicholas Kiersey is a Professor of Political Science at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. His research addresses austerity, biopolitics, and the crises of the neoliberal capitalist state. He is currently working on a book about socialist governmentality, and the cultural political economy of the end of capitalism.Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon

Ready to peel back the layers of the complex world of Marxism? Brace yourselves for a spirited exploration of the 'warm' and 'cold' streams of Marxism, as Chris N, Jason N, and I traverse the arcane terrain of political determinism, volunteerism, and the revolutionary ideas that underpin Ernst Bloch's theory.  We'll grapple with the works of Alvin Gouldner and Enzo Traversoc as well decoding inherent contradictions, and dissect the nuanced humanist and deterministic tendencies within Marxism.We'll also dive into the stormy waters of Marxism's relationship with liberalism, and the philosophical and scientific tension that brews within its core. How has Karl Marx's posthumously published work influenced the interpretation of Marxism? We'll tackle this, and delve deeper into the roles of Engels and Bernstein in molding the understanding of this theory. We also dare to explore the current state of the left, its flirtation with liberalism, and dissect the rise of Bernie Sanders against the backdrop of a faltering labor movement.Finally, we'll confront the thorny issues of socialism's relevance in today's society. Will Marxism's claim to shape the world ever be fully realized? We'll sift through these questions, examining the impact of the 'warming cold' and 'lukewarm morass' on the current state of the world. Join us on this thought-provoking journey through Marxism's myriad interpretations, its challenges, and its potential relevance in a world grappling with the imminent fallout of capitalism's failures.Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon

Prepare yourself for a mind-expanding conversation with Matt and Alex from the Long 70s podcast. We're rewinding time, unlocking the secrets of an era that stretched from 1968 to 1984/85 and has left far-reaching impacts on our world today.From the emergence of new left politics to the influence of the cultural Cold War, we unravel the dynamics that shaped the late 60s and 70s. We shine a spot light on the role of media, the existence of aliens and delve into the world of post-modernism. We also uncover the work of cultural critic Christopher Lasch and his unique application of Foucault's ideas to American culture.To wrap up our journey through this transformative era, we reflect on the cultural messaging in popular cinema, the rapid pace of technological progress and the early days of the internet. As we dissect the legacy of the 70s and its influence on our present, we also explore how this era continues to haunt our culture today. So, tune in, and let's take a trip down memory lane, discovering the untold stories of the long 70s.Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon

Think you know everything about immigration policies under the Biden administration? Buckle up, because we're about to challenge your beliefs with our guest Dan Melo, as we explore the often turbid waters of these policies. We’re pulling back the curtain on the striking similarities to the Trump era and how political distractions have overshadowed the need for viable solutions to pressing issues. Have you ever considered the economic implications of climate change on immigration? We peel back the layers on this complex issue and shine a spotlight on the influence of climate change as a key driver for global migration. We also reveal the sobering realities of economic exploitation in the immigration saga and how we could be facing an impending crisis if left unaddressed. Brace yourselves as we expose the shocking connection between US foreign policy in Central America and the ongoing narco policy. We analyze how our actions have perpetuated the current state of affairs and delve into the uncomfortable topics of reparations, immigration, and detention centers. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a broader understanding of these complex issues and hopefully, a renewed perspective on how we can tackle the challenges of immigration.Daniel is a public sector immigration lawyer in the American Southeast who primarily works with refugees and is the son of a migrant himself. He is the author of "Borderlines" (Zer0 Books 2021).Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon

Daniel of "What is Politics" returns.Have you ever wondered about the intricacies of left-right political realignments, or the paradoxes of Maoism? Do you find the dynamics of power and authority in political systems as intriguing as we do? Then you're in the right place. Joined by the creator of the "What is Politics?" YouTube channel, we navigate the complex terrain of political ideologies, from the birth of the Russian Social Democratic Party to the perplexing support of China for the Khmer Rouge. We delve into the enigmatic letters of Marx, contemplating his evolving viewpoints on peasant socialism, and traverse the convoluted maze of geopolitical strategies driven by the hunger for power.Buckle up as we dissect the racial wealth gap, affirmative action, and the roles elite institutions play in perpetuating inequality. Our discussion takes us through the complexities of race and identity in America and Canada, highlighting the harmful assumptions and stereotypes that still linger. We critique left-wing ideologies and policies, emphasizing the need for more thoughtful and inclusive strategies to address discrimination in all its forms. Our conversation also touches on the curious world of diversity statements in academia and their connection to class.We cap off this episode by exploring the power and impact of language in shaping our understanding of the world. We share insights on how language can be used as a tool to forge meaningful connections and promote productive discussions. Whether you're a political science enthusiast, an avid follower of global events, or someone who appreciates thoughtful discussions, this episode promises to serve you a rich feast of insights. So, join us in this enlightening journey through political ideologies, race, class, and the power of language.Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon

Are we so entranced by the vision of an egalitarian society that we overlook who truly stands to benefit from social justice movements? Today, we're lifting the lid on the influence of elites in these movements with Fredrik deBoer, author of the intriguing book, "How Elites Ate the Social Justice Movement”. Together, we examine the glaring disparity in representation within the progressive left and the intriguing evolution of language and terminology in activism, tracing how academia and media have embraced this shift.The ever-evolving social justice landscape navigates us through controversial waters of cancel culture, and its impact on academia and society at large. We grapple with its origins, the fear it incites, and its potential to foster insincerity and distortion in political discourse. Our conversation further delves into the disparity in college admissions, the rise of safetyism in American culture, and the debatable dominance of trauma talk, questioning the societal consequences these trends may bring. We conclude our discourse by illuminating the inequalities in the education system, the significance of vocational training, and the shift in political ideologies. Examining the cyclical absorption of revolutionary fervor into the comfort of American middle-class life, we challenge the notion of social justice as we know it. With Freddie's unique insights, we hope to spark a thought-provoking dialogue about the pursuit of social justice in our society. Join us on this intellectual journey and prepare to have your perspectives challenged.Fredrik deBoer is the author of the "Cult of Smart" (All Points Book 2020) and "How Elites Ate the Social Justice Movement" (Simon & Schuster 2023). We discuss the limits of the social justice movement, its near hegemony in elite discourse, and the problems of cultural capital meeting an orientation for justice.Send us a text Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to BitterlakeSupport the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnIntro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @varnvlogblue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.socialYou can find the additional streams on YoutubeCurrent Patreon at the Sponsor Tier: Jordan Sheldon, Mark J. Matthews, Lindsay Kimbrough, RedWolf, DRV, Kenneth McKee, JY Chan, Matthew Monahan, Parzival, Adriel Mixon