Know Your Enemy

Historian Tim Barker and editor/organizer Ben Mabie discuss the radical history of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) in the 1930s, exploring its impact on American labor, the rise of labor militants, and the right-wing fears of a revolutionary upheaval. They delve into the inclusive industrial union approach of the CIO, its response to McCarthyism, and the challenges faced by workers in promoting solidarity amidst a changing political landscape.

Historian David Austin Walsh discusses the relationship between the far right and American conservatism, highlighting connections between mainstream figures like William F. Buckley Jr. and fringe figures like Merwin K Hart. Walsh argues that despite differences, they shared a common enemy and worldview. The conversation explores the historical ties and interactions between various conservative groups, shedding light on the complexities of the conservative coalition.

Matt Sitman, along with a group of former guests, discusses the PBS documentary on William F. Buckley Jr. They question the portrayal of Buckley, the conservative movement, and its relation to Trump. The conversation delves into the challenges of understanding historical figures in modern contexts.

Poet and writer Christian Wiman discusses poetry's connection to reality and the relationship between life and art. He challenges traditional religious narratives and explores the intertwining of faith, illness, and art. The conversation delves into the transformative power of love, the intersection of faith and despair, and the role of poetry in conveying spiritual truths.

Historian Ronnie Grinberg discusses her book on Jewish masculinity and the New York intellectuals, highlighting the impact on Cold War liberalism and neo-conservativism. The conversation explores gender, sexuality, and patriarchy in the intellectual landscape, shedding light on the scholars' deeper motivations. It delves into the development of a secular Jewish concept of masculinity and the challenges faced by women in intellectual circles.

Jewish intellectuals Irving Howe, Irving Kristol, and Daniel Bell from City College in the 1930s are discussed in this podcast. Topics include their influence on American politics and letters, personal rivalries, the history of the left, intellectuals in urgent times, and their relevance to America's right turn.

Writer B.D. McClay discusses why Republicans and the right are obsessed with Taylor Swift, her influence on American culture, and the controversy over leaked phone calls. They explore Taylor Swift Derangement Syndrome, her political stand, and her unique approach to fame and success. The conversation also delves into her musical artistry and comparisons with Bruce Springsteen.

Delve into the multigenerational saga of the Bozell family, from union-busting to Capitol riot participation. Explore the evolution of American conservatism through faith, fanaticism, and redemption. Unpack the legacy of a family marked by tragedy, farce, and decline in the postwar right-wing landscape.

Explore the right's century-long romance with foreign dictators from Kaiser Wilhelm to Mussolini. Discover the link between race science and fear of democracy, the pivot from Nazi revisionism to Cold War, and the consequences of neoconservatism. Unravel the distinction between authoritarianism and totalitarianism, and the potential disaster of a second Trump term.

Matt and Sam explore René Girard's insights on envy through Pope Francis's teachings, discussing the role of Christianity in addressing societal violence and inequality. They touch on Girard's attachment to Christianity, the politics of Jesus, and the looming apocalyptic violence he predicted.