It Could Happen Here

The hosts share hilarious holiday plans and discuss their news fatigue. They dive into listener questions, trading embarrassing childhood stories, including Robert's unforgettable rafting mishap that resulted in a makeshift outfit. There's a sneak peek into Robert's upcoming sequel and a commitment to cover Canadian politics. The group lists their favorite media from 2025 and voices concerns about corporate censorship in the industry. They reflect on personal radicalization moments and highlight modern examples of dual power, all wrapped up with playful banter.

Margaret shares a poignant tale about rebuilding a ruined peach orchard and the deep emotional ties between characters. The narrator's reunion with Lane unearths years of absence and hidden pain. Through the enchanting Monkey King story, questions of immortality and betrayal surface. A life-altering decision leads to reflections on loyalty and sacrifice. Amidst anger and regret, a hopeful vision for regeneration emerges, suggesting collaboration to plant new beginnings. Expect insights into emotional storytelling and the art of craft.

In this engaging discussion, Father Elias Cornejo, a Jesuit priest and coordinator at Fe y Alegría, shares insights on the critical role of faith-based support in aiding migrants in Panama. He discusses the challenges of providing shelter and humanitarian aid, stressing the importance of dignity and mutual aid. The conversation tackles media portrayals that dehumanize migrants and emphasizes the ongoing nature of migration, urging listeners to get involved and support initiatives that empower those in need.

Discover the harrowing experiences of migrants stuck at the Lajas Blancas reception center, often trapped for months due to a $60 barrier. Hear firsthand accounts of fear, mistreatment, and the struggle for basic rights in Panama. Delve into the complexities of U.S. policies impacting their journeys and the solidarity demonstrated by local shopkeepers. Exploring the challenges faced in Mexico, from kidnappings to a flawed asylum system, the podcast highlights the desperate motivations that drive migrants to take life-threatening risks.

In this discussion, Erika Pinheiro, a legal expert from Alotrolado, unpacks the complexities surrounding Temporary Protected Status and the hurdles migrants face in the U.S. She emphasizes the limitations and risks tied to undocumented travel while illuminating the desperate journeys of Venezuelans and African migrants navigating the Darién Gap. The emotional trials of parenthood during perilous treks, and the harsh realities of survival, are also explored, shedding light on the resilience and hope that drive these individuals forward despite immense challenges.

Discover the resilience of the Emberá community in Bajo Chiquito as they welcome waves of migrants. Hear about the local response to health crises and the limited government support they face. Women leaders play a vital role in coordinating aid and ensuring safety for newcomers. The cultural significance of education and traditional ceremonies shines through as the community faces modernization. Daily acts of solidarity offer hope, while the rising dangers in the region raise urgent calls for state responsibility.

Margaret Killjoy, an accomplished author, reads her captivating short story and shares insightful commentary on its themes and structure. She explores the contrast between peaceful rural life and sudden violence as characters face an impending attack. Aiden’s emotional journey leads to a moral standoff with bandit leaders, and the tension escalates into a gripping battle. Amidst chaos, love and survival emerge as central themes, culminating in heartfelt reconciliations. Expect thought-provoking reflections on storytelling and the human experience.

In this insightful discussion, various migrant voices share their perilous journeys through the Darién Gap—one of the world’s most treacherous migration routes. They reveal the harrowing conditions they faced, including contaminated water and dangerous terrain. Personal testimonies illustrate why they left their homes, from political crises to the dream of better futures. The resilience and solidarity among migrants shine through as they navigate immense challenges, all while hoping for acceptance and opportunity in their new lands.

The discussion dives into the controversial Abundance movement, exposing its ties to Peter Thiel and the Koch Brothers. Ideas like desalination and skyscraper farms are presented as utopian visions but are critiqued for their deregulated nature. The movement is portrayed as a Trojan horse for right-wing ideologies disguised as progressive solutions. Market power dynamics are analyzed, highlighting how corporate interests manipulate housing and pricing. Ultimately, the podcast warns against the corporate takeover of democracy and advocates for alternative, community-focused futures.

In this engaging discussion, Dana El Kurd chats with Ben Lorber, a Senior Research Analyst at Political Research Associates and co-author of Safety Through Solidarity. They delve into current antisemitism trends and the troubling embrace of pro-Palestine rhetoric by prominent far-right figures. Ben critiques the ADL's alignment with power and calls for stronger, intersectional Jewish institutions. Their exploration highlights how antisemitic conspiracy theories are weaponized in political discourse and the perils of conflating activism with extremism.