TRASHFUTURE

Séamus Malekafzali, a keen observer of geopolitics and Middle East affairs, joins to discuss pressing issues surrounding Iran. He delves into the dynamics of recent protests, tracing their evolution from economic grievances to mass demonstrations. The conversation highlights the influence of Reza Pahlavi and the challenges of disorganization amid violent repression. They critique European hypocrisy in addressing human rights while benefiting from oligarch money, underscoring the complexities of alliances and the societal fallout from sanctions and mismanagement.

Abi Thorn dives into the complex landscape of trans healthcare in the U.K., marking critical developments. The discussion shifts to the concerning advances of global fascism and the U.K. government's ambiguous ties to controversial media voices. An intriguing segment introduces a concept called 'soul computing' and its implications on personal agency. The hosts also critique the perils of augmented reality and harmful algorithmic recommendations, questioning the impact of memory outsourcing on our sense of self.

Jana Silverman, a Professor of International Relations at UFABC in Brazil and DSA International Committee co-chair, dives deep into U.S. intervention in Venezuela. She unpacks the historical roots from the Monroe Doctrine to modern covert operations, revealing how economic interests drive foreign policy. The conversation touches on the challenges of legitimacy in media portrayals, Trump's unpredictable influence, and the implications of military hegemony. Jana speculates on Venezuela's future and critiques how interventions affect regional stability and global dynamics.

We've unlocked a bonus episode from earlier in the year to publish this week, and we hope your holidays are great. One more thing... we get Gregk Foley from the brand new Bloodwork Podcast on to talk about a company that can only be understood as "weaponised geoguessr." Also, Euan Blair's tie up with Louis Mosley (who could have seen that coming!) and a mural of horrors goes up in Kingston. Get more TF episodes each week by subscribing to our Patreon here!   TF Merch is still available here!   *MILO ALERT* Check out Milo’s tour dates here: https://www.miloedwards.co.uk/liveshows Trashfuture are: Riley (@raaleh), Milo (@Milo_Edwards), Hussein (@HKesvani), Nate (@inthesedeserts), and November (@postoctobrist)

The hosts dive into a variety of sharp topics, from a cheeky analysis of cancel culture to a humorous take on societal embarrassments. They tackle the dissonance in corporate AI adoption versus frontline experiences and poke fun at the absurdity of extensive AI use. Delving into hunger strikes related to Palestine Action, they challenge media perspectives and discuss the moral implications of activists’ sacrifices. The conversation balances humor and serious critique, highlighting contemporary social issues and the dynamics of public empathy.

Transport expert Gareth Dennis returns to discuss the intricacies of UK rail and infrastructure policy. He critiques the bureaucratic delays stalling Leeds' transport projects and highlights the UK government's shift from construction to endless studies. The conversation delves into funding cycles and urgent issues like driver shortages impacting supply chains. Despite challenges, Gareth and the team find a glimmer of hope in Green Party momentum while lampooning Labour's outdated car-centric policies.

Patrick Wyman, a historian and podcaster focused on the fall of the Roman Empire, delves into the collapse of the western Roman Empire. He discusses what life was like during this decline, drawing parallels to modern issues. Wyman highlights how Roman advisers were disconnected from reality and how AI now serves a similar purpose by filtering the truth. He vividly illustrates the detachment of emperors in Ravenna, shedding light on the consequences of ignoring real problems. Tune in for a fascinating look at history and its relevance today!

The hosts dive into the media consolidation chaos of 2025, with Paramount and Netflix battling over Warner Bros' remains. They critique studios for mishandling new IP, and question the reliance on AI to replace creative instincts. Warner's tumultuous history is examined alongside the potential fallout from mergers, like price hikes and lower pay. The Ellisons' cinematic ambitions are discussed, highlighting contrasts between private equity and traditional movie culture. Wacky kung fu anecdotes add a humorous twist to their serious industry analysis.

The hosts dive into Nigel Farage's controversial youth, revealing his troubling flirtation with far-right politics that has surprised the media. They riff on Bashar al-Assad's curious ties with Russian celebrity culture, and Fred Durst's failed attempts at obtaining a Russian passport. The absurdity of Trump receiving a FIFA Peace Prize gets a good laugh, while the dangers of gamifying news through prediction markets are dissected. The dynamic interplay of politics and media credulity is explored in relation to Farage's enduring influence.

Dan Boeckner, a Canadian musician known for his work with Wolf Parade and Handsome Furs, shares his insights on AI's encroachment into the music scene. He debates the merits of tools like Suno, questioning if they really democratize creativity or just churn out mediocre results. The discussion ventures into wild ideas about audience-controlled AI performances and the implications of Warner Music's recent settlement with Suno. Ultimately, they explore the precarious balance between technology and artistic integrity in a rapidly evolving landscape.