It Could Happen Here

A chilling targeted assassination of a Minnesota Democrat reveals the dangerous intersection of political extremism and religious fanaticism. The brutal attack, disguised as law enforcement, sparks a discussion on the implications of political violence in society. Delving into personal branding and the struggles of the private security industry, the episode critiques inflated credentials in a high-demand market. It also unravels disturbing conspiracy theories linked to anti-abortion terrorism, emphasizing the growing threats against public officials.

Theo Henderson, host of We The Unhoused, brings insight into the struggles of the unhoused community in LA, especially amid protests. He discusses how police aggression heightens vulnerabilities for those without homes. Henderson highlights the intersection of immigration enforcement and homelessness, revealing how undocumented individuals are often cut off from critical support due to fear of repercussions. He calls for compassionate approaches and systemic change to combat stigmas and injustices faced by these marginalized groups.

The hosts dive deep into the implications of a massive budget bill, unveiling alarming funding for border enforcement and detention facilities. They critically assess how immigrant communities are impacted by restrictive policies and discuss the disturbing growth of the detention budget surpassing that of federal prisons. Healthcare inequalities come to light with cuts to vital programs, and the chilling effects of a national voucher program on public education are explored. Activism against these changes is deemed essential as the political landscape shifts.

Dana El Kurd, a Palestinian researcher and writer, dives deep into the intricacies of Palestinian politics. She discusses the legitimacy crisis facing Palestinian leadership and how international actors influence this struggle. El Kurd highlights the urgent call for change in U.S. foreign policy regarding Palestine and the implications for the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The conversation also touches on the challenges arising from the Oslo Accords and the necessity for genuine political dialogue to revitalize Palestinian governance and representation.

Delve into the life of Lizzie M. Holmes, an anarchist feminist who navigated the tumultuous waters of labor organizing in Chicago. Discover her resilience in the face of adversity and the socio-political movements she influenced. The struggles of a minister serving marginalized communities spark discussions about the failings of charity in combating poverty. Additionally, explore the impact of early radical literature, especially women's contributions, on today's societal challenges and the pursuit of social change.

Margaret Kiljoy, an experienced organizer and activist, shares her insights on running effective meetings. She emphasizes the importance of structure, clear roles, and fostering inclusive environments for collaboration. The discussion dives into strategies for grassroots organizing, the significance of humility, and the mechanics of empowerment in decision-making. They also humorously critique the life of the Liver King, exploring the absurdities of internet fame while shedding light on pressing political issues like immigration and the implications of recent legal changes.

In a lively discussion, hosts delve into the DOJ's controversial denaturalization efforts, drawing parallels to historical practices. They passionately criticize a proposed budget deemed a 'genocide budget' for its focus on mass deportation and cuts to essential services. The chat also covers recent controversies like the Diddy trial and the impact of new tariffs on global supply chains. Additionally, they tackle the public's disapproval of ICE actions and highlight the struggles of notable figures facing Islamophobia in politics, sparking important conversations around civil rights.

The podcast dives into the controversial rise and fall of the Liver King, whose obsession with raw organ consumption leads to bizarre antics and health concerns. The hosts humorously dissect his arrest for terroristic threats and the impact of his erratic behavior on his health and public image. They explore the absurdity of viral confrontations, while critiquing current health culture. Amid comedic observations, they reflect on ego death and the reality behind the Liver King's extravagant persona, speculating on his precarious future.

Margaret Killjoy, a writer, podcaster, and activist, joins the conversation to share her insights on running effective meetings that sustain democratic practices. She delves into essential roles within meetings, such as stack takers and vibes checkers, and their impact on group dynamics. Margaret emphasizes the importance of hospitality, discussing how food can enhance engagement. The talk also explores various meeting formats like spokescouncils and fishbowls, highlighting how they promote inclusivity and collective decision-making in community organizing.

Mia chats with Margaret Killjoy, an experienced organizer renowned for her insights on meeting strategies and facilitation. They dive into the essentials of running effective meetings that contribute to a democratic society. Topics include how to structure meetings for productivity, the importance of clearly defined roles, and selecting the right venues. Margaret shares practical advice on fostering inclusivity, avoiding common pitfalls, and enhancing communication using alternative methods to traditional rules. This conversation is a guide to mastering the art of organization.