
Behind the Bastards
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.
Latest episodes

May 27, 2025 • 41min
Part One: The Throat-Slitting Evangelical Minister of Jamaica
Dive into the chilling tale of Kevin Ontoniel Smith, a Jamaican-Canadian minister whose apocalyptic visions led to throat-slitting chaos during COVID. The hosts humorously dissect his rise from a troubled upbringing to a charismatic yet controversial figure in the evangelical community. Explore the absurdities of fake degrees in religious circles and the paradox of a minister whose public persona starkly contrasts with his dark secrets. With a blend of humor and horror, this story unveils the twisted intersection of faith and fanaticism.

May 24, 2025 • 3h 44min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 183
Dive into the fascinating world of anarchism in Mexico, tracing its roots from history to modern activism. Discover the complexities of the India-Pakistan conflict, particularly the struggles in Kashmir and their human costs. Explore the intriguing dynamics of the Kurdish freedom movement and the impact of Abdullah Öcalan. Enjoy a lively review of Andor's gripping final episodes, reflecting on sacrifice and rebellion. Plus, get insights into contemporary issues surrounding immigration and the urgency for humane treatment of vulnerable populations.

20 snips
May 22, 2025 • 1h 19min
Part Two: Carl Schmitt: The Mind Behind Modern Fascism
Blake Wessler, a keen observer of political ideologies, joins the discussion on Carl Schmitt, whose controversial ideas influenced fascism. They delve into the disillusionment of post-WWI Germany and Schmitt's tumultuous life, revealing his disdain for liberalism and his alignment with Nazi ideologies. The conversation weaves through themes of identity, power dynamics, and the implications of authoritarianism in today's political landscape, all while managing to maintain a humorous take on serious subjects like concentration camps and advertising.

49 snips
May 20, 2025 • 56min
Part One: Carl Schmitt: The Mind Behind Modern Fascism
Explore the life of Carl Schmitt, the legal scholar whose ideas helped shape modern fascism. Delve into his unique critique of liberal democracy and how his philosophical legacy still resonates today. Discover the socio-political tensions of late 19th-century Germany that influenced his far-right shift, alongside his personal struggles with love and identity. Laugh alongside poignant anecdotes as they juxtapose Schmitt's academic pursuits with the broader societal issues of his time, unveiling the complexities of his relationships.

May 17, 2025 • 4h 3min
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All of this week's episodes of It Could Happen Here put together in one large file. The Irish Far Right/Neo-Nazi Movement Trans Fiction, Trans Sports The Refugees Fleeing South Africa's "White Genocide" The Gang Reviews Andor Season 2, Ep. 7-9 Executive Disorder: White House Weekly #16 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: Trans Fiction, Trans Sports https://victoria.monster/ https://thepointmag.com/criticism/entering-history/ The Refugees Fleeing South Africa's "White Genocide" https://support.iraplegalinfo.org/hc/en-us/articles/360057039031-What-is-the-U-S-refugee-resettlement-process https://welcome.us/explainers/us-refugee-admissions-program-suspended-until-further-notice-welcome-corps-terminated https://www.rescue.org/press-release/irc-responds-termination-state-department-grants-refugee-resettlement-program https://2021-2025.state.gov/refugee-admissions/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/02/addressing-egregious-actions-of-the-republic-of-south-africa/ https://www.nytimes.com/article/afrikaner-refugees-trump-south-africa.html https://za.usembassy.gov/refugee-admissions-program-for-south-africans/ https://www.episcopalchurch.org/publicaffairs/letter-from-presiding-bishop-sean-rowe-on-episcopal-migration-ministries/ Executive Disorder: White House Weekly #16 https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/waltham-mass-ice-arrest-boy-left-alone/ https://www.flgov.com/eog/news/press/2025/governor-ron-desantis-highlights-floridas-leadership-immigration-enforcement https://support.iraplegalinfo.org/hc/en-us/articles/360057039031-What-is-the-U-S-refugee-resettlement-process https://welcome.us/explainers/us-refugee-admissions-program-suspended-until-further-notice-welcome-corps-terminated https://www.rescue.org/press-release/irc-responds-termination-state-department-grants-refugee-resettlement-program https://2021-2025.state.gov/refugee-admissions/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/02/addressing-egregious-actions-of-the-republic-of-south-africa/ https://www.nytimes.com/article/afrikaner-refugees-trump-south-africa.html https://za.usembassy.gov/refugee-admissions-program-for-south-africans/ https://www.episcopalchurch.org/publicaffairs/letter-from-presiding-bishop-sean-rowe-on-episcopal-migration-ministries/ https://www.aclufl.org/en/press-releases/new-report-reveals-alarming-conditions-florida-ice-detention-centers https://english.elpais.com/usa/2025-04-01/inhumane-conditions-and-death-at-miamis-krome-migrant-detention-center.htmlSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

17 snips
May 15, 2025 • 1h 17min
Part Two: The Sordid Story of Nature Boy: The Instagram Cult Leader Who Hates Toilets
Dive into the chaotic world of Nature Boy, a cult leader using Instagram to lure followers into a Central American commune. Explore the fine line between enlightenment and exploitation within the black consciousness community. Hear the tale of a man's spontaneous move to Honduras, facing unexpected challenges. Discover the dark side of cult dynamics—manipulation, financial woes, and dire living conditions. Finally, enjoy a lighthearted take on cult creation and the amusing responsibilities that come with leading a following.

14 snips
May 13, 2025 • 1h 6min
Part One: The Sordid Story of Nature Boy: The Instagram Cult Leader Who Hates Toilets
Katy Stoll, a frequent collaborator known for her insightful commentary on Some More News, joins the discussion about the bizarre rise of Nature Boy, an Instagram cult leader against toilets. They delve into the darkly humorous world of modern cults and how social media has reshaped follower dynamics. The conversation touches on Nature Boy's troubling past as a foster child, mental health challenges, and his unorthodox beliefs about hygiene. Expect laughs and critiques as they navigate the strange intersection of influence and absurdity in today's society.

May 10, 2025 • 3h 38min
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All of this week's episodes of It Could Happen Here put together in one large file. Who We Talk About When We Talk About Borders Trans Journalism In the Era of Trump Trump vs. DC: Inside the Takeover You’re Not Hearing About feat. Bridget Todd The Gang Reviews Andor Season 2, Ep. 4-6 Executive Disorder: White House Weekly #15 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: Who We Talk About When We Talk About Borders https://www.patreon.com/posts/127235976?utm_campaign=postshare_creator Trans Journalism In the Era of Trump https://ashevilleblade.com/ https://thefreeradical.org/ https://www.madycast.com/subscribe Executive Disorder: White House Weekly #15 https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-seven-injured-militant-attack-indias-kashmir-india-today-tv-says-2025-04-22/ https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/05/05/trump-defends-toy-tariffs/83455040007/ https://www.tokyoweekender.com/japan-life/news-and-opinion/us-visa-applications-from-japan-require-disclosing-social-media-history/ https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/06/us/politics/trump-libya-migrants.html https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/press-release/2021/07/libya-horrific-violations-in-detention-highlight-europes-shameful-role-in-forced-returns/ https://www.infomigrants.net/en/post/63406/sudanese-war-refugees-recount-libya-horrors https://www.infomigrants.net/en/post/62731/scores-of-bodies-uncovered-in-libyan-mass-graves-linked-to-human-trafficking https://www.context.news/money-power-people/sudans-refugees-face-deadly-game-of-snakes-and-ladders-in-libya https://www.infomigrants.net/en/post/61979/david-yambio-life-in-libya--living-a-nightmare-part-2 https://www.aclum.org/sites/default/files/field_documents/2025-05-07-105954.pdf https://cnnespanol.cnn.com/2025/05/06/eeuu/inteligencia-ee-uu-venezuela-tren-de-aragua-ley-trump-trax https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/judge-blocks-trump-administration-requiring-proof-citizenship-register/story?id=121134512 https://www.foxnews.com/us/california-home-suspect-accused-doxing-ice-agents-raided-searched https://www.axios.com/2025/05/05/israel-gaza-destroy-trump-deal https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/israel-is-heading-for-a-full-occupation-of-gazaand-all-the-risks-it-entails-58516d60 https://www.axios.com/2025/05/04/un-rejects-israel-gaza-aid-plan https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/ship-carrying-activists-aid-gaza-attacked-by-drones-ngo-says-2025-05-02/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

37 snips
May 8, 2025 • 1h 30min
Part Two: Robert Maxwell: How Ghislaine Maxwell's Dad Ruined Science
In this discussion, guest Adam Conover, a comedian and host known for debunking misconceptions, delves into the controversial life of Robert Maxwell. They explore Maxwell's dramatic post-war journey, his rise in scientific publishing, and the ethical dilemmas he created in academia. Conover’s sharp humor highlights the paradox of a man who mixed ambition with dubious practices, affecting science and knowledge access. The conversation also touches on Maxwell’s troubled family life and his complex legacy, especially regarding his daughter, Ghislaine Maxwell.

11 snips
May 6, 2025 • 59min
Part One: Robert Maxwell: How Ghislaine Maxwell's Dad Ruined Science
Adam Conover, host of Factually and known for Adam Ruins Everything, dives deep into the turbulent life of Robert Maxwell, the controversial media mogul and father of Ghislaine Maxwell. They unravel his transformation from a Nazi adversary to a corporate raider who undermined the scientific community. The conversation highlights Maxwell's duplicitous identity, legacy of exploitation, and the haunting influence he had on his daughter's life. Through humor and historical context, they explore themes of power, identity, and morality in a captivating tale.