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
Aug 15, 2024 • 59min
Part Two: Louis van Schoor: The Deadliest Security Guard in History
Louis van Schoor, a notorious figure infamous for his predatory actions as a security guard during apartheid, shares his chilling story. His daughter, Sabrina, grapples with her father's dark legacy, torn between loyalty and the horror of his crimes. They discuss the systemic failures that allowed such brutality to occur, and Sabrina reveals the complexities of their fraught relationship amid societal prejudices. Dark humor meets grim reality as they navigate the haunting legacy of violence intertwined with personal trauma.
Aug 13, 2024 • 1h 2min
Part One: Louis van Schoor: The Deadliest Security Guard in History
Molly Conger, an insightful commentator on social issues, and Louis Van Schur, the infamous security guard tied to a string of murders in apartheid South Africa, share a chilling conversation. They delve into the dark legacy of colonial violence and the normalization of brutality in policing. The discussion reveals the troubling history of private security forces operating without accountability. Engaging anecdotes and stark reflections highlight how societal dynamics and personal choices intertwine in the face of violence.
Aug 10, 2024 • 3h 13min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 142
The hosts dive into the deadly world of mosquitoes, blending humor and facts. They discuss their role as disease vectors and the impact on human health. Strategies for mosquito control and the ecological implications of past methods are explored. The conversation takes a twist with historical insights into labor movements in Peru, highlighting anarchism's influence. They navigate complex immigration policies while linking them to societal violence and anti-Semitism debates. Community solidarity and the importance of local bookstores wrap up the lively discourse.
Aug 9, 2024 • 47min
Do We Really Need to Talk About Kevin?
Explore the disturbing world of right-wing extremism and the personal stories intertwined within it. Discover the manipulation of quotes, including a misattributed Voltaire line, and delve into the chaotic life of a family isolated in a West Virginia compound. Uncover the fallout from radical ideologies and the real-life implications of extremist movements. Plus, delve into alarming parental interventions concerning obsessively dangerous behaviors. It's a deep dive into complexities that lurk behind twisted ideologies.
5 snips
Aug 8, 2024 • 47min
Part Two: Blue Dawn: A Right Wing Fantasy of Leftist Revolution
Dive into a satirical exploration of the bizarre world painted in 'Blue Dawn', where Twitter mobs determine justice. Discover the contrasting views on victimhood in political narratives and how they twist the truth. Unearth chilling stories of arson attacks tied to victim culture and delve into complex cultural clashes. Enjoy hilarious speculations on Trump as a secretive warrior with a quirky militia. This podcast weaves humor, personal anecdotes, and critical insights into today’s ideological battleground.
Aug 6, 2024 • 1h 2min
Part One: Blue Dawn: A Right Wing Fantasy of Leftist Revolution
Garrison, an author who dives into right-wing fantasies around leftist revolutions, joins the conversation with astute commentary. They explore the humorous absurdities of contemporary right-wing literature and critique its portrayal of leftist politics. The discussion navigates chaotic political landscapes, from a fictional narrative involving an anarchist mob to the bizarre implications of nationalized healthcare. With wit and satire, they unravel the complexities of victimhood, identity, and the surreal elements shaping today’s political discourse.
14 snips
Aug 3, 2024 • 2h 54min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 141
This week features a dive into the historical impact of the Olympics, unraveling their ancient Greek roots and the politicization of events like the 1936 Berlin Games. The podcast also critiques the humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid Biden's policies and examines the U.S.'s complex ties to Israel. On a lighter note, humor emerges from exploring LGBTQ dynamics at the Republican National Convention through Grindr, highlighting unexpected connections within a charged political atmosphere.
8 snips
Aug 1, 2024 • 60min
Part Four: The RFK Jr. Episodes
RFK Jr., a controversial environmental activist and vaccine skeptic, dives deep into his tumultuous legacy. He discusses the intricate balancing act of his public persona against troubling personal realities, including his complicated family dynamics. The conversation critically examines the dangerous impact of vaccine misinformation that he has propagated, linking it to public health crises like the measles outbreak in Samoa. With a mix of serious insights and humor, the episode highlights the urgent need for accountability and critical thinking in vaccine discourse.
Jul 30, 2024 • 59min
Part Three: The RFK Jr. Episodes
Dive into the chaotic life of RFK Jr., from his bizarre profession as a rat-eater to his wild adventures in Peru. Explore the psychological impact of historical trauma on his political journey. The discussion reveals a mix of reckless behavior and privilege within the Kennedy family, touching on their dark legacy and the controversial Moxley murder case. With a blend of humor and poignant reflections, the narrative uncovers both personal struggles and environmental activism amid a turbulent political landscape.
Jul 27, 2024 • 2h 51min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 140
This week, the chaos of the 2024 Republican National Convention is hilariously dissected, featuring technological mishaps and bizarre parallels to Stephen King tales. Delve into the theatrical atmosphere where political rhetoric meets entertainment, complete with a Kid Rock rally that electrifies the crowd. A serious look at the school-to-prison pipeline and its alarming realities intertwines with lighter discussions about asparagus festivals. Also, explore the critical state of trans rights and healthcare amid shifting legal landscapes and advocacy efforts.
