Behind the Bastards

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.

Dive into the fascinating dynamics of a controversial Canadian election, where shifting voter sentiments and key figures like Trudeau and Carney shape the landscape. Explore the collapse of the old economy, the complexities of international trade, and the rise of nationalism. The podcast delves into anarchism as a possible antidote to current political systems, contrasting it with cosmopolitan ideals. Plus, enjoy a humorous critique of media narratives through the lens of the popular series Andor, paralleling rebellion themes with real-world challenges.

Pol Pot and his friends are now in charge of Cambodia and in a remarkably short period of time they manage to kill two million people. Including a leftist academic from the UK who thought the Khmer Rouge was rad. Here's how!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Robert continues the story with young Pol Pot's years in France where he and his friends radicalize themselves in what has to have been the deadliest book club of all time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this insightful discussion, writer and podcaster Andrew Ti delves into the extraordinary life and troubling ideologies of Pol Pot. They explore how a seemingly quiet kid transformed into a dictator, driven by radical beliefs that led to devastation in Cambodia. The podcast also touches on the cultural shadows and historical factors that influenced his rise, alongside humorous musings on disparate topics like Ben Affleck's infamous tattoo. It's a compelling blend of dark history and light-hearted banter that keeps listeners engaged.

Join historian Mike Duncan, known for his engaging podcasts on revolutions and Roman history, and philosopher-comedian Michael Burns as they discuss the unsettling parallels between fiction and reality, particularly in the context of a Martian revolution. They unpack the implications of corporate dominance, the role of community organization in overcoming systemic challenges, and explore the rise of authoritarianism and online extremism. With a mix of humor and critical insights, they examine how today's political climate mirrors historical upheavals and the importance of collective action.

Dive into the bizarre world of Andrew Tate and his digital empire. Discover the strange cult-like community he's built, preying on vulnerable young men. The discussion hilariously contrasts lighthearted topics, like a LeBron James Ken doll, with darker themes of manipulation and exploitation. Uncover the twisted financial schemes and toxic ideologies surrounding modern pickup artistry. Hear about the alarming methods used to control followers, echoing historical cults. It's a wild ride blending humor with critical insight into today's troubling influencers.

What’s the latest with Andrew Tate? The hosts dive into his ongoing legal troubles, including serious charges and his questionable philanthropy claims. They express frustration over his controversial appeal, particularly among young men, contrasting it with the outrage from critics. The discussion mixes humor with serious critiques of Tate’s dangerous persona while navigating the complex relationship of his family with the political landscape. Expect engaging banter alongside a deep dive into the legal labyrinth and implications of his public image.

Spencer Jordan, a rank-and-file member of the Urbanor Workers Union, discusses the ongoing union strike that is shaking the foundations of workplace dynamics. He reveals the emotional toll of prolonged negotiations and management's resistance, highlighting the vital role of community solidarity in the fight for fair labor practices. Spencer shares insights on the power of collective action, the challenges of organizing in non-profits, and the broader implications of strikes for democratic workplaces, all while emphasizing the importance of worker rights and dignity.

Ian Johnson, Cool Zone Media's supervising producer and editor, joins Robert and Sophie to dissect the captivating saga of Andrew Tate. They explore Tate's controversial rise to fame, his questionable business ethics, and strategies that exploit vulnerable young audiences. The discussion delves into his manipulative tactics, the appeal of his persona, and the societal implications of his messaging. The conversation is both critical and lighthearted, reflecting on the cultural impact of influencers like Tate while addressing the challenges posed by their ideologies.