It Could Happen Here

All of this week's episodes of It Could Happen Here put together in one large file.  When Care Workers Organize Behind Myanmar's Devastating Earthquake Trump's Concentration Camps in El Salvador How Strikes Build Democratic Workplaces  Executive Disorder: White House Weekly #12 You can now listen to all Cool Zone Media shows, 100% ad-free through the Cooler Zone Media subscription, available exclusively on Apple Podcasts. So, open your Apple Podcasts app, search for “Cooler Zone Media” and subscribe today! http://apple.co/coolerzone  Sources/Links: When Care Workers Organize https://www.instagram.com/friendspdxunionnetwork/ https://friendspdx.org/donate Behind Myanmar's Devastating Earthquake https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/up-to-700-myanmar-muslims-killed-in-quake-hit-mosques-weakened-by-neglect.html https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/30/world/asia/myanmar-earthquake-aftershocks-airstrikes.html https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/myanmar-juntas-aerial-attacks-continue-despite-post-quake-ceasefire/ https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/myanmar-junta-shoots-chinese-earthquake-aid-convoy-rcna199233 https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/07/world/asia/myanmar-earthquake-aid.html https://www.reuters.com/article/economy/myanmar-lashes-out-at-quotchocolate-barquot-foreign-aid-idUSSP172535/ https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/lives-updates-quake-death-toll-rises-to-3600-junta-suspends-tourist-visa-after-quake-private-us-field-hospital-in-naypyitaw-and-more.html https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/guest-column/global-response-to-myanmar-earthquake-shines-light-on-strategic-rivalries.html https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/live-updates-death-toll-exceeds-3500-hundreds-in-urgent-need-of-quake-aid-juntas-airstrikes-still-rage-on-and-more.html https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/world/live-updates-death-toll-rises-to-3471-quake-relief-teams-must-obey-junta-us-pledges-additional-7-million-in-quake-relief-and-more.html https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/resistance-forces-capture-indaw-town-after-months-of-fighting/?sfnsn=scwspmo https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-junta-airstrikes-kill-over-30.html Trump's Concentration Camps in El Salvador https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogLw7I2BWO0 https://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/14/el-salvador-president-return-wrongly-deported-trump-00289234 https://documentedny.com/2025/04/14/ice-bukele-cecot-tren-de-aragua-el-salvador-new-york-deported/ How Strikes Build Democratic Workplaces  https://gofund.me/9ce38160 https://www.instagram.com/urban_ore_workers/ Executive Disorder: White House Weekly #12 https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/14/investing/us-stock-market/index.html https://finance.yahoo.com/news/live/trump-tariffs-live-updates-china-signals-readiness-for-talks-if-us-shows-respect-amid-numbers-game-191201017.html https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/04/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-ensures-national-security-and-economic-resilience-through-section-232-actions-on-processed-critical-minerals-and-derivative-products/ https://www.npr.org/2025/04/15/nx-s1-5355896/doge-nlrb-elon-musk-spacex-security https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/16/temu-cuts-us-ad-spend-drops-in-app-store-rank-after-trump-tariffs-.html https://www.reuters.com/technology/us-issues-export-licensing-requirements-nvidia-amd-chips-china-2025-04-16/ https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/dispatch-border-wall  https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/interior-department-transferring-federal-land-army-border-wall/story?id=65702870  https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/military-mission-for-sealing-the-southern-border-of-the-united-states-and-repelling-invasions/ https://www.bbc.com/news/live/cwy03j9vddlt?post=asset%3Aaff18753-80c9-4445-963e-03b9438ef121#post https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/national-media-release/dhs-issues-waiver-expedite-new-border-wall-construction-california https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/04/08/2025-05992/determination-pursuant-to-section-102-of-the-illegal-immigration-reform-and-immigrant-responsibilitySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The discussion dives into the troubling implications of potential detention facilities in El Salvador, alarming many about current policies. It also highlights the deportation of activists, casting a spotlight on injustices faced by green card holders. Autism takes center stage as they critique harmful narratives from public figures. The episode shifts gears with a light-hearted take on tariffs impacting trade, particularly with China, raising concerns over broader economic consequences. Throughout, they navigate the intersection of joy, activism, and personal well-being.

Spencer Jordan, a rank-and-file member of the Urban Ore Workers Union, dives into how strikes serve as a powerful tool for fighting against the rising authoritarianism in the workplace. They discuss the vital role of collective action and its ripple effects on broader labor rights. Jordan shares personal experiences from their journey in union organizing, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and community support during strikes. The conversation also highlights innovative strategies to maintain morale and advocate for equitable workplace changes.

Gare and James uncover alarming developments in El Salvador's prison expansion plan, revealing a potential relocation of U.S. citizens to overseas detention centers. They explore the inhumane conditions faced by immigrants at an infamous confinement facility. Political dynamics surrounding these detentions are critiqued, highlighting collusion with gangs and human rights implications. The discussion also addresses Trump's portrayal of immigrants as threats and the ethical concerns of such policies, illuminating urgent legal dilemmas within the immigration system.

The podcast delves into the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar, revealing the critical situation in Sagaing and the government's obstruction of aid. Accounts from survivors highlight their struggles and resilience amidst chaos. The discussion touches on unusual solidarity between Buddhist and Muslim communities in the wake of tragedy. Geopolitical tensions are explored, as foreign support contrasts sharply with ongoing violence and military actions. Grassroots efforts to mobilize aid showcase the community's determination despite challenges from the ruling junta.

Explore the struggles faced by care workers striving for fair pay and better working conditions. Discover the powerful mentorship initiative at Friends of the Children and how it supports at-risk youth. Hear first-hand accounts of the emotional challenges in caregiving and the importance of empathy. Learn about the ongoing unionization efforts that are transforming the industry, the triumphs and frustrations faced in bargaining, and the community's role in advocating for change.

Margaret reads a captivating chapter exploring the complex emotions of diverse characters facing a changing world. Themes of resilience emerge as they confront mystical challenges, including a frantic quest to save a friend from a dangerous curse. Amid chaos, their efforts lead to a devastating conclusion, prompting deep discussions about loss, resurrection, and ethical dilemmas. The narrative blends humor with tension in their relationships, culminating in heartfelt dialogues that reflect on love and uncertainty, all while foreshadowing future developments.

Lex McMenamin, News and Politics Editor at Teen Vogue, discusses the importance of genuine trans representation in media, particularly through a cover story on Vivian Wilson, Elon Musk's daughter. Ella Ureman, a comedian and host of a trans political show, adds humor and personal anecdotes about the complexities of transitioning. Mark Medina highlights the struggles of immigrant workers and the vital role of independent unions in promoting solidarity. Together, they explore activism, resilience amidst repression, and the intersection of culture and politics in today’s society.

The conversation dives into the chaotic world of tariffs, examining their impact on global trade and U.S. industries. There's a critical look at the IRS sharing data with ICE and the effects on immigrant communities. The military budget increase raises concerns about its implications for jobs and recruitment, while racial disparities in policing are also discussed. The episode wraps up with a sharp critique of political narratives surrounding immigration and economic policies, highlighting the urgency for change in current practices.

Join Andrew and James as they dive into the fascinating world of Esperanto, a global language crafted to foster unity beyond imperialism. Discover its rich legacy through the visionary life of L.L. Zamenhof. Learn how Esperanto influenced the anarchist movement, especially post-World War I, and the resistance it faced in places like France. The discussion also tackles critiques of the language, its evolution, and its relevance today. Plus, explore the intersection of language and cultural identity in our modern world.