Behind the Bastards

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

Kate Bertasch, Executive Director of the Digital Defense Fund, shares crucial insights on safeguarding digital privacy for abortion access amid shifting political landscapes. She discusses the potential dangers of digital surveillance, particularly regarding period trackers and personal communications. Bertasch emphasizes practical strategies for maintaining privacy, navigating healthcare concerns, and building reliable support networks to protect rights. The conversation sheds light on the intersection of technology and reproductive health, urging proactive measures for individuals seeking secure access to care.

Molly Conger, a keen commentator on political narratives, joins the discussion to dissect Newt Gingrich's alternate history novel. They humorously speculate on a scenario where the Nazis invade Tennessee, mixing historical analysis with wit. The conversation touches on Gingrich's controversial legacy, his polarizing rhetoric, and even his quirky writing style. They also explore generational differences in pop culture, and delve into the absurdity of time travel, making for a hilarious and intriguing exploration of how alternate histories can reshape our perceptions.

Sophie hilariously critiques Marjorie Taylor Greene's book, filled with absurd takes on education and history. The hosts share amusing anecdotes from book signings alongside playful discussions about hot dogs and political commentary. They explore the impact of public perceptions on controversial figures and the absurdities of current social issues, all while balancing humor with serious insights. With plenty of laughter, they dissect the strange world of celebrity politics and its influence on modern literature.

Talia Lavin, author of 'Wild Faith,' explores the Christian right's growing impact on American politics, highlighting the troubling ties between extremism and traditional political actors. Julia Serano, author of 'Whipping Girl,' dives into the evolution of transgender discourse, discussing the significance of terms like 'cis privilege' and the experiences of transgender individuals in today's society. Both guests examine the complexities of modern ideologies and their implications on personal freedoms and community safety.