Time To Say Goodbye

John Ganz, a writer and host of the Substack 'Unpopular Front', dives deep into the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a significant figure in GOP circles. He discusses the complexities of gun violence and the oversimplification of policies surrounding it. Ganz critiques how internet subcultures encourage radicalization and examines the political fallout and strategies the right might employ in response to the tragedy. The conversation also touches on the stakes of debate culture and the challenges of principled political discourse.

This week dives into the chaotic ICE raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia, revealing the clash between immigration policies and American manufacturing aspirations. The conversation critiques the ineffective Democratic strategy and the rising authoritarian sentiment explored in an Ezra Klein op-ed. Attention shifts to Chicago, where the potential deployment of the National Guard raises concerns about community safety. Amid political dilemmas, the excitement of NFL season unfolds, exploring how sports gambling intertwines with social issues and fan engagement.

In this engaging discussion, Jonathan M Berman, an assistant professor and author of 'Anti-Vaxxers: How to Challenge a Misinformed Movement', dives into the intricate history of anti-vaccine movements. He reveals how political polarization and personal freedom narratives have shaped vaccine skepticism over time. The conversation also highlights the implications of recent public figures' rhetoric on vaccination policies, the media's role in public perception, and the fragile relationship between scientific truth and journalism amidst societal pressures.

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.