Cool People Who Did Cool Stuff

Laurie Penny, an insightful author and journalist known for her sharp commentary on feminism, dives deep into the complex legacy of Mother Jones. Penny explores the discrepancies between Jones' legendary image and the truth of her life, revealing uncomfortable truths about her views and actions. The conversation weaves through historical misrepresentations and the racial dynamics within labor movements, painting a vivid picture of the struggles faced by immigrants and marginalized groups. Penny’s critique offers a fresh lens on activism and the narratives we uphold.

Margaret, an astute reader and critic, dives into Kurt Vonnegut's '2 B R 0 2 B,' a classic sci-fi tale critiquing eugenics. She explores the chilling themes of voluntary death in a dystopian society, unraveling how a seemingly perfect existence can lead to emotional chaos. The podcast showcases dark humor through a dialogue between a painter and an orderly, highlighting absurdities in societal norms about life and death. Listeners are left contemplating morality and the weight of existence in our modern landscape.

Cody Johnston, a commentator, dives into the fascinating intersection of German revolutionaries and American abolitionism. He unpacks the legacy of the 48ers in Texas, tracing their contributions and community-building efforts against slavery. The conversation highlights the role of German-language newspapers and the cultural significance of Cincinnati as an abolitionist hub. Johnston also reflects on the radical journey of figures like August Willich, illustrating the solidarity between immigrant groups and the black community in their struggle for freedom.

Margaret talks to Cody Johnston about how a bunch of German revolutionaries joined the movement against American slavery.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Margaret reads you a classic sci-fi tale of a marriage on Mars gone wrong.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Margaret finishes talking with Caitlin Durante about the first "Madame Secretary," who burned her political capital to keep the US border open and save Jewish children.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Margaret talks with Caitlin Durante about the first "Madame Secretary," who burned her political capital to keep the US border open and save Jewish children.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Margaret reads you a science fiction story about space unions and family ties.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Margaret finishes talking with Courtney Kocak about how a bunch of self-styled anarchist gnomes helped collapse a government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Margaret talks with Courtney Kocak about how a bunch of self-styled anarchist gnomes helped collapse a government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.