

It Could Happen Here
Cool Zone Media and iHeartPodcasts
It Could Happen Here started as an exploration of the possibility of a new civil war. Now a daily show, it's evolved into a chronicle of collapse as it happens, and an exploration of how we might build a better future. Every day Robert Evans, Garrison Davis, Mia Wong, and James Stout take you on a jaunty walk through the burning ruins of the old world and towards a better one that lays just on the horizon.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 15, 2025 • 40min
From Anti-Satanic Crusaders to Congresswoman: Tracing an Anti-Trans Harassment Campaign
In this insightful discussion, Precious Child, an LA trans artist, shares her experiences with anti-trans harassment that led to censorship by Congresswoman Nancy Mace. They delve into the historical parallels between today’s moral panics and the satanic panic, revealing the vulnerabilities of queer artists. Precious reflects on how art is not just an expression of identity but also a form of activism. The conversation emphasizes the power of community in resisting oppression and the urgent need for mobilization against anti-trans campaigns.

7 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 31min
CES 2025: AI Toys Are Coming For Your Kids
Dive into a world of futuristic childcare products unveiled at CES 2025. The hosts highlight the rise of AI toys and the mixed feelings Generation Z holds towards them, questioning their impact on authentic relationships. They discuss innovative toys like the interactive AI teddy bear, assessing their safety and emotional risks for children. Ethical concerns arise over AI companions and their deep emotional ties to kids, while reflections on CES offer insights into the event's latest highlights and ongoing debates surrounding tech in childhood.

Jan 13, 2025 • 30min
Mutual Aid & the LA Fires
The conversation dives into the devastation caused by the Los Angeles fires and how mutual aid groups quickly mobilize to support affected communities. It highlights the struggles of vulnerable populations in makeshift shelters as they face severe weather challenges. There's a critical examination of the social injustices amplified by these disasters, exposing the inadequacies of government support. Grassroots efforts shine as a beacon of hope, emphasizing community resilience and the need for resource sharing to effectively respond to crises.

Jan 12, 2025 • 31min
CZM Book Club: Cool Zone 2055: A Bestiary of Beasts
Dive into a whimsical future where fascists create bizarre beasts to thwart internationalists. The hosts humorously tackle survival strategies in the absurd Dino War and explore the haunting evolution of hellhounds, born from dark experiments. With dark humor, they discuss the implications of reanimated beings as a workforce. The world of Cool Zone 2055 is filled with intriguing, symbolic creatures that reflect our societal challenges, highlighting the complexities of morality in a fantastical yet relatable setting.

Jan 11, 2025 • 3h 8min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 164
This week dives into a range of fascinating topics, starting with the severe cold outbreak in Los Angeles and its impact on lives. Humor meets insight in a playful courtroom setting discussing freelance journalism. There's a critical look at AI in advertising and its absurdities, with humorous critiques of tech industry innovations from CES. The discussion explores the future of AI, ethical concerns about job losses, and funny contradictions within creative fields. Plus, reflections on political dynamics and humorous speculations on public figures add to the engaging mix.

5 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 45min
CES 2025: Robert and Gare Meet The Literal Devil
Explore the latest innovations from CES 2025, including AI-enabled household robots and groundbreaking prosthetics like the 'Bio Leg.' The conversation humorously reflects on the chaotic atmosphere of tech events while tackling serious topics like community support during wildfires. Critical analyses of social media's influence on modern politics reveal alarming parallels to history. Journey through amusing anecdotes about culinary adventures and the challenges of integrating robotics into everyday life, topped off with insights into the future of AI in music and labor.

12 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 45min
The AI 'Ick': What Big Tech Is Bringing for 2025
Discover the wild world of tech showcased at CES, where attendees find a bizarre mix of innovation and real-world crisis. Explore the contentious landscape of AI in creative fields, balancing authenticity with technological advances. Delve into the implications of AI dominance in corporate communication, where profit could overshadow creativity. Laugh along as flying cars are critiqued for their impracticality. Finally, contemplate the ethical dimensions of AI in human relationships and the quest for machine empathy.

8 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 38min
CES 2025: Listen to AI Executives Laughing At People Losing Their Jobs
Ed Zitron, a sharp media commentator and entrepreneur, brings his insights to the absurdities of AI in entertainment. They humorously dissect the strange AI-generated content showcased at CES 2025, including a bizarre Coca-Cola ad and a chaotic short film. The conversation highlights the disconnect between tech innovations and user needs, while critiquing the lack of empathy for job losses caused by AI. With a mix of humor and critical observation, they question the future of creative expression in an increasingly automated world.

7 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 31min
2025 Predictions
The hosts dive into their bold predictions for 2025, mixing optimism with hints of impending doom. They humorously analyze the potential crossover of reality TV stars like Kim Kardashian into politics. Dark humor surfaces as they speculate whimsically on the possible fates of public figures. Economic worries creep in with inflation and stock market forecasts, while absurd scenarios—like fictional elk liver steaks—are hilariously dissected. Ultimately, they balance lighthearted discussions with serious societal concerns, keeping listeners entertained and engaged.

Jan 6, 2025 • 31min
Q&A 2025
A lively Q&A reveals listener questions and personal anecdotes. Humor flows as gaming successes intertwine with teachings on financial literacy for kids, featuring a cool debit card app. Writers discuss the emotional hurdles of their craft and the power of storytelling. Reflections on political conventions highlight labor issues and personal immigration stories. The absurdity of current events is also tackled, with a nod to a potential general strike by 2028. Plus, a passionate recommendation of the classic film 'The Wicker Man' adds a unique twist!


