Behind the Bastards

Engaging with audience questions, the hosts blend humor and personal insights while discussing kratom and responsible consumption. They reflect on their podcasting journey, including their transformation from conservative roots to engaged journalism. Whimsical debates emerge over Warhammer favorites and thoughtful dissection of societal issues shines through. With anecdotes about firearms and career growth during the pandemic, they highlight the challenges of securing guests and the importance of mental wellness for artists.

Robert and Sophie engage with listener questions, tackling everything from the complexities of covering controversial figures to the moral ambiguities they face. They share humorous insights about potential podcast guests and discuss awards for the film 'Critics Are Healing.' The conversation moves to their journey from writing to podcasting while reflecting on war zone journalism and playful topics like hypothetical Spice Girl names. All of this sprinkled with a lively appreciation for their fans and the quirky joys of open dialogue.

Robert Evans, a frequent guest known for his insightful historical commentary, dives into an array of intriguing topics. He shares lighthearted yet serious anecdotes about assassination attempts against Mussolini, linking these to modern political ideologies. The discussion highlights the absurdities of early 20th-century politics, the complexities of anarchism, and the philosophical dilemmas surrounding violence in social change. Additionally, Evans humorously reflects on dating app fatigue and the role of creativity during the holiday season, weaving in personal growth and community-building themes.

Kevin MacDonald, a former senior officer in the Irish Defence Forces with extensive experience in peacekeeping, shares gripping insights from his time in Lebanon. He discusses the challenges and complexities faced by UN peacekeepers and the critical role of unarmed observers in fostering peace. MacDonald also reflects on the ongoing territorial negotiations in the region and the deeply emotional experiences during military operations. His narrative captures the interplay of cultural understanding and military strategy in a conflict-ridden landscape, highlighting both personal and historical contexts.

Explore Woody Guthrie's profound influence on folk music as a force for social change. Delve into his life during the Great Depression, revealing personal struggles and his evolution as an artist. Discover the intersection of his music with themes of rebellion and justice, especially in the context of contemporary punk culture. The narrative also touches on Guthrie's evolution through WWII and the lasting legacy of iconic songs like 'This Land is Your Land,' originally critiquing American ideals. It's a fascinating blend of history, music, and personal storytelling.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.