It Could Happen Here

In this talk, Dr. Kaveh Hoda, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist, dives into the dangerous misinformation surrounding hepatitis B vaccines and the impact of anti-vaccine figures within health agencies. He clarifies the transmission routes of hepatitis B, particularly during childbirth, and argues against Trump's push to delay vaccinations, warning that it jeopardizes public health. Dr. Hoda also critiques the confusion stemming from Trump's medical comments and emphasizes the importance of staying updated on vaccinations.

Delve into the chilling world of Russia's elite, where suspicious deaths abound. From oligarchs poisoned with frog venom to unsettling family tragedies, the narrative uncovers a pattern of bizarre and sudden demises. The invasion of Ukraine exposes the dark consequences of war, including sabotage and a surge in illicit arms trading. As the investigation unfolds, connections to Kremlin corruption and Putin's overarching influence come to light, revealing the unsettling truths behind the headlines.

Delve into the manipulation of tragedies by politicians and media, revealing how partisan narratives often overshadow the true motivations behind mass shootings. Examine the phenomenon of copycat attacks fueled by online communities, and discover the unequal media coverage between high-fatality incidents and lesser-known ones. Unpack the alarming implications of using shootings as political tools, including the potential rise of authoritarian measures in response to perceived threats. This discussion highlights the complex relationship between violence and ideology.

The hosts dive into the controversial Riyadh Comedy Festival, where comedians allegedly compromise their integrity for royal appearances. They explore the tangled ties of organizers to the Saudi regime and discuss the grim reality of human rights abuses. The financial allure for performers sparks a lively debate on ethics, highlighted by reflections from Bill Burr. They distinguish between performing for locals and legitimizing the government’s image. The episode concludes with a satirical nod towards authoritarian comedy festivals, leaving listeners amused yet contemplative.

Journalist Raven from Unraveled discusses alarming ICE raids in Chicago, sharing firsthand experiences from the protests where she was injured. The conversation dives into a traffic stop killing, the terrifying daily life for residents under federal scrutiny, and systemic targeting of marginalized communities. Raven highlights the military tactics used against protesters and the shocking realities inside detention facilities. The discussion raises critical questions about the implications of these actions, likening them to ethnic cleansing.

Dive into a spine-tingling tale perfect for spooky season! The story revolves around family pressures and the sinister Kushtuka legend, revealing a chilling supernatural threat. As tensions rise at Hank's lodge, stolen artifacts come into play, leading to a brutal attack that forces a daring escape across the tundra. Confrontations and moral dilemmas unfold amidst the backdrop of cultural theft. Themes of violence and community protection are intricately woven, leaving listeners with haunting metaphors to ponder.

Vicky Osterweil, a cultural politics expert, discusses how media manipulation influences public perception, particularly surrounding Trump and corporate responses from Disney. Attorney Maura Meltzer-Cohen analyzes legal implications of recent Antifa memos and their impacts on free speech. Tangent Wiggy shares insights on frontline union organizing in the Inland Empire. Meanwhile, Dr. Kaveh Hoda and psychiatrist Tyler Black dive into the ambiguous links between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and autism, stressing the importance of informed medical choices.

The discussion dives into the nuances of the government shutdown narrative, revealing misleading frames by Republicans. There’s a deep exploration of the Pentagon's renaming as the War Department and the implications of deploying troops in U.S. cities amid protests. The conversation also highlights recent ICE raids in Chicago and new border wall construction under questionable waivers, while a National Security memo sparks concerns about political violence and surveillance on ideological grounds. Activism faces scrutiny as government tactics evolve.

Maura Meltzer-Cohen, a dedicated abolitionist attorney from New York, shares her insights on the implications of recent executive orders for free speech. She discusses how these orders don’t change laws but can increase state repression. Mo highlights the normalization of violence through rhetoric and the targeting of nonprofits under the 'Antifa' label. They also explore practical harms of policing, the precarious position of activists, and why fighting back legally often leads to success in court.

Dr. Tyler Black, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, and Dr. Kaveh Hoda, a medical doctor and host, dive into the controversy surrounding Tylenol and its supposed link to autism. They discuss findings from a large Swedish study that debunks the acetaminophen-autism connection and the evolving nature of autism diagnoses. Highlighting the impacts of fear-based messaging on pregnant individuals and autistic communities, they underscore the importance of informed decision-making in medical care during pregnancy, while also addressing potential misinformation in the wake of this debate.