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
Dec 22, 2024 • 1h 38min
Behind the Bastards Presents: Sixteenth Minute (of Fame)
Alyssa Grenfell, an ex-Mormon content creator and author, shares her unique insights into Mormon culture and its transformation in the digital age. She discusses the rise of Mormon influencers and the tension between traditional values and modern lifestyles. The conversation explores the challenges faced by ex-Mormon creators as they navigate their narratives online, the role of social media in reshaping identities, and the financial dynamics behind content creation in this niche. Alyssa's personal journey adds a compelling layer to the discussion.
Dec 21, 2024 • 2h 56min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 161
Andrew Sage, an advocate for anarchism, dives into the rich tapestry of anarchism in Paraguay, tracing its roots from colonial histories to contemporary youth movements. He discusses influential figures like Rafael Barrett and highlights significant events, including the 1931 libertarian revolution. Sage also examines the enduring resilience of Paraguayan anarchists fighting for freedom and social justice despite historical repression. The conversation branches into the Kurdish struggle for democracy amidst civil war, showcasing the global relevance of these movements.
37 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 58min
Part Three: P. Diddy: A Life in Crimes
The rise and fall of Bad Boy Records unveils the lavish yet risky lifestyle of Diddy. A deep dive into his restaurant Justin's showcases a mix of legal chaos and entrepreneurial ambition. Celebrity culture in the 90s brings humor and controversy to the forefront, revealing dark undercurrents of power dynamics. Disturbing allegations surface, exposing troubling behaviors in the industry. Meanwhile, Diddy's personal life reveals tumultuous relationships and legal troubles, highlighting the stark contrast between public persona and private reality.
40 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 55min
Part Two: P. Diddy: A Life in Crimes
Diving into the infamous East Coast-West Coast rap rivalry, the discussion highlights Diddy's controversial role during this chaotic era. Serious allegations of sexual assault against a prominent producer showcase the darker undercurrents of the music industry. The chilling dynamics of power, manipulation, and violence reveal the hidden truths behind celebrated personas like Tupac and Biggie. With a blend of humor and gravity, they explore how memories are distorted by ego and substance use, ultimately reflecting on the lasting impact of these events on hip-hop culture.
49 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 57min
Part One: P. Diddy: A Life in Crimes
Greazy Wil, a Grammy-winning audio engineer known for his collaboration with Killer Mike, shares insights into the controversial life of Sean "P Diddy" Combs. They discuss Diddy's turbulent transition from a rough upbringing to a business mogul while confronting dark allegations. The conversation highlights Diddy's complex legacy, juxtaposing personal struggles with the glamorous yet perilous world of hip-hop. Humor punctuates their reflections on fame, ambition, and the chaotic moments in the music industry, including a harrowing charity event that turned disastrous.
Dec 15, 2024 • 1h 55min
Behind the Bastards Presents: Weird Little Guys
Dive into the chaotic life of Frank Sweeney, a con artist with ties to the American Nazi Party, whose deceptions ranged from bizarre claims of military service to a botched bank robbery. Discover his tumultuous years behind bars, marked by connections to organized crime and a notorious prison escape. The chilling tale of a family's harassment through disturbing postcards reveals the dark side of obsession. Explore quirky characters and eccentricities in culture that remind us to embrace the oddities of life.
24 snips
Dec 14, 2024 • 2h 44min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 160
Garrison Davis, a frequent commentator on political and social issues, joins the conversation to discuss various pressing topics. They delve into the controversial nomination of Kash Patel for FBI Director, analyzing his questionable past. The complexities of the Syrian conflict, the moral implications of inflation, and the art of grassroots organizing also take center stage. Listeners will be intrigued by personal stories of radicalization and the ethical dilemmas surrounding economic strife, all wrapped in humor and insightful critique.
14 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 55min
Part Two: The Vioxx Scandal: How Big Pharma Killed More Americans Than Vietnam
Discover the shocking Vioxx scandal where Merck's deceptive marketing led to skyrocketing fatalities. Explore the ethics of celebrity endorsements in promoting dangerous drugs and the miscommunication in medical journalism. Unearth the tragic consequences faced by patients like Bob Ernst due to manipulated trial data. Delve into the broader implications for pharmaceutical accountability as profits overshadow safety. The discussion also humorously touches on foodborne illnesses, proving that even serious topics can have a lighter side!
21 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 58min
Part One: The Vioxx Scandal: How Big Pharma Killed More Americans Than Vietnam
Dr. Kaveh Hoda, a healthcare expert and medical doctor, delves into the scandal surrounding Vioxx, revealing how Merck knowingly released a drug that led to fatal heart attacks. The discussion uncovers the troubling history of Big Pharma prioritizing profits over patient safety. They explore the rushed development of Vioxx, the marketing tactics that obscured its risks, and the overall shift in societal trust towards pharmaceutical companies. Hoda's insights highlight the ethical dilemmas in drug promotion and the implications for public health.
Dec 8, 2024 • 2h 4min
Behind the Bastards Presents: Better Offline
Ellen Hewitt, a Bloomberg Technology reporter known for her insights on Sam Altman and OpenAI, dives into pressing issues in the tech landscape. She discusses the critical role of journalism in holding tech giants accountable amid growing distrust. The conversation also explores Google's internal struggles with search performance and the ethical dilemmas at OpenAI, spotlighting Sam Altman's leadership crisis. Hewitt emphasizes the need for community action against digital darkness and reflects on the complex narratives surrounding AI advancements.
