The Bunker – News without the nonsense

Emma Casey, author of 'The Return of the Housewife,' dives into the world of 'cleanfluencers' and the modern-day implications of domestic ideals. She discusses how social media shapes our perceptions of housework and contrasts joyful cleaning portrayals with feelings of inadequacy. Casey explores the psychological impacts of cleanfluencing, gender imbalances in domestic labor, and the revival of traditional housewife roles. With wit and insight, she prompts a reevaluation of these dynamics and their effects on women's empowerment today.

What if your neighbour was a Russian spy? In 2010, the FBI arrested ten deep-cover agents living quiet suburban lives across North America, their true identities hidden even from their own children. Today on The Bunker, Alex von Tunzelmann is joined by Shaun Walker, author of The Illegals, to take a closer look at one of the most shocking espionage operations in modern history and what it reveals about Putin’s spy games.• We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to https://Indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit.Buy The Illegals: Russia's Most Audacious Spies and the Plot to Infiltrate the West through our affiliate bookshop and you’ll help fund The Bunker by earning us a small commission for every sale. https://bookshop.org/’s fees help support independent bookshops too.www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Alex von Tunzelmann. Producer: Liam Tait. Audio editor: Tom Taylor. Managing editor: Jacob Jarvis. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cindy Yu, a journalist and China commentator, dives into the intense U.S.-China trade rivalry sparked by Trump’s tariffs. She discusses how these policies affect American consumers and the global market, challenging the idea that only China bears the cost. The conversation touches on shifting perspectives between cooperation and competition, and China’s strategies to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia while navigating ongoing tensions. Insights on the implications for American manufacturing sentiments add depth to this complex trade landscape.

Joining the conversation is Bob Goodson, a Silicon Valley veteran and co-author of 'Like: The Button That Changed The World'. He explores the surprising origins and evolution of the Like button, detailing how it's transformed our social interactions into a dopamine-driven addiction. Goodson discusses the ethical implications of social media, the rapid pace of technological innovation, and the future of mind-monitoring tech. With his rich insights, he paints a picture of how this simple button shapes our behaviors and society today.

Rafael Behr, a Guardian columnist and political analyst, joins Jacob Jarvis to dissect current political events. They analyze the ongoing chaos surrounding Trump's tariffs and the intricate tensions in U.S.-China trade relations. Behr sheds light on Britain’s diplomatic strategies amid a crisis in its steel industry. The conversation highlights the challenges the UK faces with China and the evolving political landscape. Additionally, they address the complexities of recent deportation cases and the ramifications for political activism and voter sentiment.

Robert E. Kirsch and Emily Ray, experts in doomsday prepping, delve into the fascinating phenomenon of people preparing for catastrophic events. They discuss the roots of this trend in American culture, exploring motivations from nostalgia for self-sufficiency to reactions against neoliberalism. The conversation touches on the psychological allure of survivalism, the transformation of homes into fortresses in today's political climate, and the importance of community resilience in facing societal challenges.

In this insightful discussion, Mike Berners-Lee, a professor at Lancaster University and author of 'A Climate of Truth,' dives deep into the climate polycrisis. He emphasizes the power of radical honesty in confronting the crisis and the manipulative tactics of the fossil fuel industry. Berners-Lee highlights the urgency of public awareness and personal accountability in changing the narrative. He also debunks common myths about renewable energy and insists that reducing energy consumption should be our primary focus for a sustainable future.

Ben Makuch, an independent national security reporter for The Guardian US, dives into the implications of Donald Trump's recent national security shake-up. They dissect the alarming influence of conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer on Trump’s decisions. The conversation explores how political loyalty is superseding expertise, raising risks for U.S. military operations. Makuch also highlights the erosion of trust between the U.S. and its allies, framing these changes as a potential shift towards authoritarianism that echoes historical fascism.

Emile Chabal, a Professor of Contemporary History at the University of Edinburgh, delves into the fallout from Marine Le Pen’s conviction for embezzlement. They discuss how this verdict could signify the decline of the Le Pen dynasty or spark a political rebirth. The conversation highlights perceptions of corruption in France, the challenges facing her party, and the broader implications for political dynamics amidst changing voter sentiments. Chabal also contextualizes these trends within a wider European political landscape.

Trump's tariffs are stirring global economic chaos, hinting at the decline of globalization. Keir Starmer is poised to respond in a significant speech on supporting local businesses. Meanwhile, protests against Trump could reshape political landscapes ahead of the midterms. The podcast also critiques the oversaturated celebrity podcast scene, calling for fresh voices to emerge. In a heated political climate, tensions in Israeli politics highlight complex narratives and ongoing conflicts that demand scrutiny.