It Could Happen Here

In this engaging discussion, Tommy Espinoza, a union steward for the National Association of Letter Carriers, sheds light on the relentless challenges postal workers face in the fight for rights amid capitalism. Poet Emily Gorchinski shares her thought-provoking piece "The Age of Cowards," exploring themes of societal despair. Political commentator Bridget Todd recounts her firsthand experiences from Trump's inauguration, conveying the atmosphere of political uncertainty. Together, they reflect on the importance of solidarity and resilience in activism.

A recent incident involving a Nazi salute sparks a deep dive into its historical significance and modern implications. The discussion critiques how media shapes our perception of symbols and actions, often leading to disengagement with real issues. Parallels are drawn between protests in Brazil and the U.S., emphasizing the limitations of violent insurrection. The importance of grassroots organizing is highlighted, advocating for genuine community engagement over superficial online activism. It's a call for meaningful dialogue and action against oppressive structures.

Bridget Todd, a D.C. resident and activist, shares her firsthand experiences of the inauguration and its aftermath. She discusses the return of the Proud Boys and the implications for societal stability. The conversation reflects on the evolving landscape of activism, especially post-January 6th, emphasizing the need for meaningful engagement. Todd critiques the ineffectiveness of mockery in political discourse and highlights the struggles faced by service workers during this tumultuous period, blending personal reflections with broader societal impacts.

Margaret Killjoy, co-host of the Live Like The World is Dying podcast, shares vital insights on wildfire evacuation and preparedness. She emphasizes the rising threat of wildfires and the importance of proactive planning. Listeners learn practical tips for creating an effective go bag, including essentials for pets and people. Personal stories highlight the bond between humans and animals during emergencies, while expert advice on safety gear ensures everyone is ready to face unexpected challenges.

Emily Gorcenski, a poignant poet known for her reflections on politics, shares a powerful new poem inspired by the current socio-political landscape. The conversation explores the unsettling rise of authoritarianism and its echoes from history, drawing vital parallels with the Weimar Republic. Gorcenski discusses the urgent need for radical change and active engagement in social issues. They also dive into the decay of American democracy, the frustrations of modern protest movements, and the importance of fostering hope amid cultural challenges.

Tommy Espinoza, a former letter carrier and union steward for the National Association of Letter Carriers, dives into the historical and contemporary struggles of postal workers. He shares insights on the limitations of striking and the transformative impact of the 1970 national strike. Espinoza discusses inequities in labor laws, the challenges injured workers face, and the importance of union solidarity. With a mix of personal stories and serious grievances, he emphasizes collective action and the need for community awareness to improve working conditions for postal employees.

Journey into a futuristic Spain, grappling with fascist rule and the resilience of a Catalonian resistance. Reflect on how local culture intertwines with horror storytelling while navigating the complexities of communication. Discover a community thriving in extreme heat, showcasing historical struggles and personal tales of bravery. Explore the Aragonosaurus as a revolutionary symbol, alongside quirky sponsorships and chilling legends. Experience survival amidst chaos through the eyes of a field reporter, unraveling deep emotional battles and bonds formed in warfare.

This week, artist and musician Precious Child shares their experiences with far-right harassment and the challenges of online censorship. David Roth dives into the highlights and ethical concerns from the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), revealing the future of AI toys for children. Meanwhile, Vicky Osterweil discusses the provocative concept of "Years of Lead Paint," connecting it to contemporary political crises and the persistent threats facing marginalized communities. These discussions blend humor, urgency, and insightful commentary on art, technology, and activism.

Mia chats with Vicky Osterweil, a writer and organizer renowned for her incisive insights on fascism and social movements. They delve into the shocking Tesla car bombing incident, linking it to historical political violence. Discussion highlights include the 'strategy of tension' in America, the absurdities of modern political chaos, and the rise of extremist ideologies. They also explore how neoliberalism fosters dependency and the power of grassroots movements in empowering communities to combat oppression.

David Roth, a sports writer with insights into technology's impact, joins the panel to dissect the latest absurdities from CES 2025. They humorously critique the bizarre intersection of luxury surveillance and essential tech, tackle the moral dilemmas of biometric monitoring, and poke fun at outlandish safety products. The discussion also highlights the eerie resemblance between some innovations and horror themes, while examining how technology may undermine genuine human connections. A wild ride through the future of tech, complete with laughs and sharp observations!