Colette Shade, author of "Y2K: How the 2000s Became Everything," delves into the cultural impact of the early 2000s. She discusses how nostalgia intertwines with modern disillusionment faced by millennials, contrasting their optimistic youth with the harsh realities of adulthood. The conversation highlights the lasting effects of globalization and the 9/11 event on millennial identity, while also exploring the shift in political engagement post-2008 recession. Shade's insights illuminate the complexities of a generation shaped by rapidly changing societal conditions.

Brandon Wolf-Hunnicutt, an associate professor of history at California State University, Stanislaus, dives deep into the tumultuous political landscape of 1960s Iraq. He discusses the February 1963 coup and the ideological shifts of Abdul-Karim Qasim, who defied Pan-Arab nationalism. The conversation highlights the intricate alliances between the Ba'athists and communists, alongside the U.S.'s fluctuating support. Wolf-Hunnicutt paints a vivid picture of how these power struggles were intertwined with oil interests and regional tensions.

Ryan Grim, a seasoned investigative journalist and co-founder of DropSite News, joins Yann Philippin from the European Investigative Collaborations to unveil fascinating insights about U.S. government funding in journalism. They discuss the implications of such funding on integrity, especially with organizations like the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) that are pivotal in exposing global corruption. Their conversation tackles funding dilemmas, censorship issues, and the future of journalistic independence amidst financial ties.

Van Jackson, a senior lecturer in international relations at Victoria University of Wellington and author of 'Grand Strategies of the Left,' joins to discuss cutting-edge foreign policy strategies. He critiques traditional U.S. grand strategies like neoliberalism and primacy, urging a shift towards progressive approaches. Jackson shares insights on evolving leftist ideologies amidst geopolitical changes, delving into the connection between political theory and real-world applications, and challenges faced within the national security framework.

Michael Franczak, a research fellow at the International Peace Institute and Columbia University lecturer, delves into the political legacy of Jimmy Carter. He discusses Carter's rise from a peanut farmer to the presidency, highlighting his groundbreaking human rights policies. The influence of the Trilateral Commission on Carter's foreign policy is examined, shedding light on the interplay between economics and politics. Franczak also reflects on how Carter shaped youth culture and the evolution of the Democratic Party during the 1970s.

Brandon Wolf-Hunnicutt, an associate professor of history and author of 'The Paranoid Style in American Diplomacy,' explores Iraq's turbulent political climate pre-World War II. He discusses the rise of anti-British sentiment and the pivotal 1958 coup, comparing it with Nasser’s actions in Egypt. The conversation delves into oil's strategic importance during WWII and how it reshaped Western relations with Iraq, highlighting the American shift in dominance following the war. Tune in for captivating insights into this complex history!

In this discussion, Justin Boyd, a talented television writer known for his work on Fear the Walking Dead, delves into Stanley Kubrick's enigmatic film, Eyes Wide Shut. They explore its unique holiday setting and its status as an 'end of history' work. The conversation dives into Kubrick's cinematic legacy, contrasting the sources' Austro-Hungarian roots with a dreamlike New York atmosphere. The intriguing development story of the film and the obsessive nature of Kubrick's filmmaking process also take center stage, revealing the complexities behind this iconic piece.

Eleanor Janega, a medieval historian and author known for her insights on women's roles in history, dives into the fascinating origins of Christmas. She discusses the holiday's evolution from ancient winter festivities to modern celebrations. Janega reveals how traditions like gift-giving and the Christmas tree emerged, while debunking myths of their pagan roots. The interplay between St. Nicholas and Santa Claus is explored, alongside the significant roles of Mary and the Three Kings. It's a captivating journey through medieval festivities and their lasting impact on today's Christmas.

Brandon Wolf-Hunnicutt, an associate professor of history and author, delves into the complex history of 20th century Iraq and its relationship with Western powers. He explores the Hashemite monarchy and the rise of anti-colonial sentiments. The discussion highlights the origins of Iraq's communist movement and the 1920 uprising against British rule, while also examining how oil politics shaped national identity. Wolf-Hunnicutt underscores the diverse roles of ethno-sectarian communities and critiques misconceptions about U.S. interventions in Iraq.

Jake Werner, acting director of the East Asia Program at the Quincy Institute and a US-China relations expert, shares insights on the current tensions between the US and China. He discusses Biden's complex strategy of both collaboration and aggression towards China, contrasting it with Trump's legacy. The conversation also highlights the shifting dynamics of regional alliances and the challenges posed by trade upheaval, domestic manufacturing shortages, and climate change. Werner provides a thought-provoking overview of US hegemony in a changing global landscape.