Behind the Bastards

Dive into the chaotic life of Thomas Kinkade, where art meets scandal in ways you wouldn't expect. Discover his massive fraud and unsettling personal crimes that contradicted his image as the 'Painter of Light.' Marvel at the absurd lengths Kinkade went to market his work, from charming evangelical collectors to his tumultuous private life. Explore the dark side of commercial success in art, revealing how Kinkade exploited faith for profit while grappling with addiction and legal issues. It’s a wild ride through creativity, controversy, and capitalism!

Join artist and writer Randy Milholland as he delves into the tangled legacy of Thomas Kinkade, the 'Painter of Light' and notorious con-man. They explore the contrast between Kinkade's charming, nostalgic art and the criticisms surrounding his ethics and commercial success. Discover how his troubled past influenced his work and reshaped American culture, while Milholland spices up the conversation with humor and satire. Plus, a whimsical imagining of an absurd buddy comedy featuring historical figures adds a unique twist to the discussion.

This week dives into the chaotic 1968 Democratic Convention, drawing parallels with current activism. The Yippies' counterculture resistance shines through as they combine political action with a lively lifestyle. The tension between protesters and police during this historic event is palpable, with reflections on violence and community safety. Personal accounts illuminate the struggles faced by activists today, while discussions of modern protest dynamics add depth to the analysis. Humor weaves through critiques of political gatherings, blending serious commentary with lighthearted insights.

Dive into the intriguing relationship between U.S. media and the rise of European fascism. Explore how early American media romanticized dictators and failed to grasp the dangers of Nazism. Discover the media's historical biases and misrepresentations, especially towards vulnerable communities. It's a compelling look at how journalism can both challenge and propagate authoritarianism, all while maintaining a humorous banter that keeps the conversation engaging and thought-provoking.

In this engaging conversation, Michael Swain—a historian and best friend of the host—dives into the failures of liberal media during the rise of fascism in the 1920s and 30s. They discuss how media normalization of violence directly contributed to the acceptance of fascist ideologies. The duo also critiques the media's legacy as a defender of democracy, drawing parallels to current events. Swain highlights the ongoing issues of biased reporting and the implications of sensationalism, making it clear that understanding historical media patterns is crucial for today's global challenges.

The podcast dives into unsettling historical instances of political violence, from assassination attempts to the Nixon administration's reactions. It explores Arthur Bremmer's disturbing diary, shedding light on the psyche of would-be assassins. Environmental activism takes center stage with a passionate discussion on preserving green spaces in urban settings. Additionally, political transformations are examined, particularly JD Vance and Peter Thiel's shifts toward neo-reactionary ideologies, revealing intricate power dynamics and cultural critiques.

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.

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.

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.

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.