QAA Podcast

Olivier Jutel, a communication studies lecturer at the University of Otago, dives into the complex world of disinformation. He critiques the framing of online conflicts as 'information warfare' and explores how this narrative distracts from deeper political issues. Olivier addresses the influence of tech firms and military interests on public perception, the historical context of disinformation campaigns, and the challenges posed by modern misinformation. He advocates for a shift towards true democratic governance in addressing these pressing issues.

This week, the hosts delight in high-quality cinema experiences while poking fun at poor recordings. They explore Ari Aster's 'Eddington', a chaotic satire on youth navigating pandemic life and social media. The conversation reflects on character archetypes in modern films and critiques the somber portrayal of America. The team dives deep into the challenges of representing trauma in art and how it resonates with contemporary audiences. Join them for a humorous yet insightful journey through film appreciation.

The hosts dive into the tangled relationships between Trump and Epstein, highlighting absurd political responses and bizarre birthday notes. They humorously critique the hypocrisy of wealthy figures embroiled in scandal, examining Trump's peculiar affinity for Epstein. The conversation also touches on the chaos within Congress regarding Epstein's files, revealing a disconnect between political figures and their constituents. A mix of humor and sharp analysis illuminates the strange dynamics and absurdities surrounding this complex topic.

Dive into the delightful madness of plushie obsession as the hosts hilariously explore the allure of collectible toys like Labubu. Their witty banter reveals the competitive nature of consumerism, reflecting on how these whimsical items grip hearts across all ages. The quirky tales of creative encounters and the absurdity of collaborations with giant brands like Coca-Cola keep the laughs coming. Join them for a fun ride through the world of collectibles and the culture that surrounds it!

The hosts dive into the controversial legacy of Jeffrey Epstein, questioning the FBI and DOJ's handling of the case and the implications of their claims about his infamous client list. They explore the fallout from the DOJ's memo, which leaves even staunch supporters feeling skeptical. Discussions touch on political loyalty amidst growing disillusionment and missed opportunities for transparency. With humor and sharp critique, they shed light on the societal consequences of ignoring the darker elements tied to this high-profile scandal.

The hunt for a liberal version of QAnon leads to surprising discoveries. Explore the Alt National Park social media accounts, born from resistance but evolving into something peculiar. Meet the 4 AM Club, where spiritual TikTok women think they've awakened to a new reality post-2024 election. The podcast humorously dissects how these online movements mimic conspiracy culture, questioning if quirky interpretations can offer real resistance against political challenges. Can playful park rangers and spiritual seers truly change the narrative?

Explore the historical roots of the backlash against transgender rights as the hosts investigate the early gender clinic era. Discover the impact of pioneers like Christine Jorgensen on public perception and medical practices in the late 1940s. Uncover the struggles for autonomy faced by trans individuals against a backdrop of cultural narratives and backlash politics. The podcast delves into significant setbacks in transgender healthcare during the 1970s, alongside the resilience and advocacy efforts that shaped the queer community in the 1980s.

Join Spencer Barrows, co-host of the insightful Cursed Media podcast, as he dives into the labyrinth of the contemporary backlash against transgender acceptance. He and fellow host Liv Agar dissect the historical evolution of trans medicine, uncovering both progress and resistance. They explore the chilling influence of backlash politics on trans rights and delve into the complexities of gender identity therapy. Adding humor, they share engaging anecdotes about sex education and the importance of independent media in fostering curiosity and critical thought.

Join a lively discussion that combines humor and poetry at a unique Red Pill Poetry Night. The hosts critique modern poetry's superficiality while navigating complex themes with wit. Dive into whimsical insect-themed verses and the societal reflections they evoke. The playful banter keeps the atmosphere light as they explore R.K. Gandhi's intriguing work. Don't miss the hilarious takes on cultural nihilism and artistic integrity, showcasing the power of poetry to challenge the status quo.

Elaine Mokhtefi, an American anti-imperialist writer and activist, shares her remarkable journey from protesting segregation to fighting for Algerian independence. She recounts her personal experiences with CIA surveillance and the chilling tactics of COINTELPRO against movements like the Black Panthers. Mokhtefi reflects on the complexities of revolutionary alliances, the psychological impact of colonization, and the transformative role of technology in activism. Her book 'Algiers: Third World Capital' serves as a testament to her lifelong commitment to justice.