Time To Say Goodbye

Hello! Today we talk about Trump’s bid to create a sovereign wealth fund by investing in private companies, the parallels these actions have to his shakedowns of elite universities and Zohran’s attempt to throw up 135 on the bench press. We also talk about the “Badasses,” a group of Democrats who are trying to blend suburban mom vibes with their former careers in the CIA and military. Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit goodbye.substack.com/subscribe

Jessica Dai, a UC Berkeley PhD student and writer, and Ben Recht, a Berkeley professor in electrical engineering, dive into the nuanced realm of AI culture. They scrutinize the priorities of major AI companies and the concept of alignment, questioning if profit motives overshadow ethical considerations. The duo discusses the ethical challenges surrounding AI decision-making, content moderation, and the emotional impacts of AI on users. Their insights probe how big tech influences societal norms, reflecting on the evolving relationship between technology and humanity.

Hello,This week, we have a long talk with an author we both have admired for a while, Jonathan Mahler. His new book, The Gods of New York: Egoists, Idealists, Opportunists, and the Birth of the Modern City: 1986-1990, is a chronicle of how a four year stretch in New York City laid down the groundwork for a new city, one that fully separated itself from its working class roots and any notion of civic unity for a fractured, polarized, and atomized city that gave rise to everyone from Donald Trump to Al Sharpton to Larry Kramer to Spike Lee. Really really good book and a great guest. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit goodbye.substack.com/subscribe

The discussion dives into the Gilded Age and its parallels with modern politics. Marjorie Taylor Greene's controversial remarks about Gaza spark debate on her appeal and the 'horseshoe theory' in political ideologies. The speakers explore the intricacies of political rhetoric and the impact of figures like Greene in today’s polarized landscape. They also address voter disconnection from parties and the emotional toll of ongoing humanitarian crises while highlighting the importance of authenticity in this digital age.

In this discussion, Jeremy Konyndyk, President of Refugees International and veteran humanitarian operator, sheds light on the acute famine crisis in Gaza. He explains the intricate challenges of delivering aid amidst conflict and infrastructure destruction. The conversation highlights the vital role of public opinion in influencing humanitarian efforts, while examining U.S. foreign policy's impact on the situation. Listeners gain insight into the urgent need for grassroots advocacy, revealing both the horrors of the crisis and paths to meaningful action.

Patrick Hultgren, a veteran Green Beret and college roommate of Jay Caspian Kang, dives into the sartorial choices of ICE agents on the streets. He dissects the absurdity of 'operator cosplay'—civilians mimicking military looks—and critiques the masked presence of federal agents, sparking debate about law enforcement ethics. The duo also shares humorous insights about tactical gear's increasingly prominent role in parenting. Hultgren’s unique perspective sheds light on the intersection of military aesthetics and the complexities of immigration enforcement.

The conversation delves into how the Epstein scandal is shaking up right-wing politics and Trump’s defenses. It explores the uneasy intersection of conspiracy theories and elite accountability. Moving to climate concerns, the hosts discuss the recent catastrophic floods on the East Coast and the apathetic political response to climate change. The discussion emphasizes the need for more effective environmental narratives that resonate with public concerns amidst the escalating climate crisis.

Delve into the intriguing scenarios surrounding Zohran's potential mayoral reign in New York City. The hosts tackle media scrutiny, political talent, and the Democratic party's transformation. They also humorously critique surf fishing ethics while cleverly linking personal anecdotes to broader societal trust issues. A discussion on college admissions brings forth the complexities of race and privilege, complemented by a satirical take on media sensationalism and name trends. Political charisma, scrutiny, and the absurdity of faculty meetings add an entertaining twist.

Leigh Claire LaBerge, a CUNY professor and author of 'Fake Work,' shares her insights on the absurdities of corporate culture and her nostalgic reflections on the late '90s. She talks about the need for humor in leftist discourse, the pressures young workers face today, and the challenges of navigating New York's shifting political landscape. LaBerge also critiques the blind optimism in technological advancements, drawing parallels to the Y2K panic, and emphasizes the importance of relatable critiques in making progressive ideas more accessible.

Sohrab Ahmari, an Iranian-American writer and founding editor of Compact Magazine, dives deep into the evolving anti-war sentiment among American conservatives, especially in the age of Trump. He discusses the disconnect between the interventionist rhetoric and the working-class concerns of Trump supporters. The conversation highlights internal struggles within the administration, changing conservative views on military action, and the historical context of anti-war sentiments. Ahmari also examines class dynamics and the implications for future Republican strategies.