Behind the Bastards
Cool Zone Media and iHeartPodcasts
There’s a reason the History Channel has produced hundreds of documentaries about Hitler but only a few about Dwight D. Eisenhower. Bad guys (and gals) are eternally fascinating. Behind the Bastards dives in past the Cliffs Notes of the worst humans in history and exposes the bizarre realities of their lives. Listeners will learn about the young adult novels that helped Hitler form his monstrous ideology, the founder of Blackwater’s insane quest to build his own Air Force, the bizarre lives of the sons and daughters of dictators and Saddam Hussein’s side career as a trashy romance novelist.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 27, 2025 • 3h 11min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 201
In this discussion, Andrew Sage, a Trinidad and Tobago–based commentator, shares insights on the impacts of U.S. strikes on Venezuela and how they ripple through regional politics. He delves into the complex historical ties between Trinidad and the U.S., and the precarious balancing act Trinidad faces amidst disputes over Guyana's oil and Venezuela's claims. Andrew also cautions about the potential violations of international law due to these military actions and their threat to local fishermen, highlighting the growing regional instability.
19 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 1h 7min
Part Two: Buford Pusser: The Worst Sheriff Ever
Dan O'Brien, a witty writer and comedian, dives into the controversial life of Buford Pusser, the notorious sheriff with a violent past. They dissect Pusser's mythos, highlighting his questionable war on crime and the chilling murder of his wife, Pauline, which he may have orchestrated. O'Brien and the host explore Pusser's rise to power, the ambiguity surrounding his violent exploits, and how he became a celebrity despite dark allegations. The discussion also touches on the legacy of this infamous figure and the cultural complexities of venerating such a controversial character.
30 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 1h 2min
Part One: Buford Pusser: The Worst Sheriff Ever
In this engaging discussion, writer Dan O'Brien, known for his work with Last Week Tonight and Cracked, joins to dissect the tale of Buford Pusser. They explore how the 1973 film 'Walking Tall' immortalized Pusser as a mythic lawman, while also critiquing its glorification of vigilante justice. The conversation dives into bizarre family lore, Pusser's troubling childhood, and his chaotic early adulthood, including a wild bear story and a life-altering car crash, revealing the complex reality behind the legendary figure.
Sep 20, 2025 • 4h 2min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 200
Bridget Todd, a journalist and D.C. statehood advocate, sheds light on the implications of D.C.'s governance, emphasizing how the lack of statehood has allowed federal overreach and the complexities surrounding immigration enforcement. Thistle (Travis Tyler), a community organizer from St. Louis, shares insights about mentoring youth in group homes and restoring community trust to prevent violence. The discussion also dives into the chaotic nature of modern political violence and community resistance against federal actions.
23 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 1h 23min
Part Six: How Heinrich Himmler Went From Nerdy Boy To Master of the SS
Explore the bizarre world of Heinrich Himmler, from his nerdy beginnings to becoming the master of the SS. Discover the SS’s odd attempts to replace Christmas with pagan traditions. Learn how Himmler’s fascination with the occult shaped his leadership and influenced the SS’s practices. Uncover the twisted marriage rituals introduced by Himmler to de-Christianize relationships, along with his wild genealogical ambitions. Delve into the early steps towards the horrific mass deportations initiated under his regime.
30 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 1h 8min
Part Five: How Heinrich Himmler Went From Nerdy Boy To Master of the SS
Heinrich Himmler’s journey from awkward boyhood to his sinister role in the SS unfolds in surprising detail. The podcast humorously contrasts Texas soccer taboos with Himmler's ascent amidst Nazi power struggles. Explore the absurdity of racial identity as it critiques far-right ideologies, all while reflecting on Himmler's twisted recruitment tactics. Delve into his political maneuvers, shifting loyalties, and the dark evolution of a man who embraced both the occult and brutality, reshaping Germany's dark future.
7 snips
Sep 13, 2025 • 3h 14min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 199
Dana El Kurd, a political science professor and expert on Palestinian politics, discusses the intricate challenges of Palestinian statehood and the implications of international recognition efforts. Cooper Quinton, a malware researcher at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, dives into essential digital hygiene practices, particularly for activists and journalists facing spyware threats. Their insights shed light on pressing issues like community activism, the impact of crime discourse, and the rise of technological surveillance that endangers civil liberties.
57 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 1h 11min
Part Four: How Heinrich Himmler Went From Nerdy Boy To Master of the SS
Dive into the bizarre journey of Heinrich Himmler, from a nerdy boy to the chilling leader of the SS. Explore the absurd origins of Nazi ideology and the strategic propaganda that bolstered Himmler’s rise to power. Discover his obsession with creating a knightly order paralleling the Knights Templar and how his identity struggles shaped extremist beliefs. Delve into the dark legacy of figures like Lanz von Liebenfels and the disturbing connections between historical fascism and modern tech ideologies. It’s a wild blend of humor and horror!
60 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 9min
Part Three: How Heinrich Himmler Went From Nerdy Boy To Master of the SS
Join comedian and political commentator Jason Petty as he delves into the eerie transformation of Heinrich Himmler from a nerdy boy to the SS's master. The discussion highlights Himmler's fascination with the German occult and how fantasy intertwined with his radical ideologies. They also touch on his complex relationships, particularly with Marga Seagroth, revealing troubling views on women and race. Humorous comparisons to modern absurdities keep the conversation engaging, showcasing the often bizarre intersections of history and identity.
Sep 6, 2025 • 2h 54min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 198
Raven, a journalist from Unraveled in Chicago, dives into the murky waters of political conspiracies and grassroots movements. They discuss how the 2020 uprisings reshaped narratives and the rise of both left and right-wing conspiracy theories, notably 'Blue Anon'. The conversation highlights the challenges of reporting amidst misinformation, especially regarding ICE's presence in Chicago. Raven emphasizes community resistance against oppressive tactics and how local activism intersects with broader political dynamics, all while stressing the urgency of truthful dialogue.
