Behind the Bastards

In this engaging discussion, actor and comedian Ed Helms dives into the chilling world of David Berg and the Children of God cult. They explore the bizarre practice of 'flirty fishing,' where manipulation masquerades as religious duty. Helms and the host reveal the disturbing dynamics of emotional control and child exploitation within the cult, shedding light on the dark reality faced by its members. The conversation balances the gravity of these topics with humor, making it both enlightening and unsettling.

Actor and comedian Ed Helms, known for his roles in 'The Office' and 'The Hangover,' joins the discussion about the dark legacy of David Berg, founder of the Children of God cult. They delve into the alarming societal blindness towards cult leaders and dissect Berg's troubled upbringing that shaped his controversial beliefs. The conversation highlights how his radical ideology blended charismatic leadership with manipulation, evolving the cult from Teens for Christ to a notorious sect. Ed's insights on the psychological dynamics of authority add depth to this chilling narrative.

Catherine Wells, Director for Lubbock Public Health, discusses the alarming resurgence of measles linked to declining vaccination rates in Texas. Garrison Davis, a political writer, explores the anti-vax movement's roots and its dangerous impact on public health. Dr. Peter Hotez, a pediatrician scientist, critiques misinformation surrounding vaccines, while Dr. David Gorski highlights ethical concerns in vaccine hesitancy. Together, they emphasize the need for trust in local health initiatives to combat skepticism and protect community health.

Matt Lieb, a comedian and co-host of the Sopranos rewatch podcast, brings humor and insight as he dives into the life of Harlan Carter. They discuss Carter's pivotal role in shaping American gun culture and police militarization. The conversation touches on the complex history of gun control, intertwined with themes of racism and societal implications. From the NRA’s evolution to the impact of historical legislation on marginalized communities, the dialogue balances serious issues with insightful banter, examining how past injustices echo in today's gun debates.

Caitlin Durante, a comedian and co-host of The Bechdel Cast, joins the discussion to dissect the U.S. Border Patrol's troubling history. They explore the racial biases of the 1924 Immigration Act and its cruel impact on various immigrant communities. Caitlin and the host humorously juxtapose personal travel tales with serious critiques, highlighting the agency's violent legacy. They dive into migrant experiences and the brutal enforcement tactics used, revealing a dark narrative that intertwines human rights and systemic racism.

This week, Charles McBride, a documentary filmmaker and humanitarian writer freshly returned from Palestine, provides a gripping firsthand account of the worsening conditions in the West Bank. He navigates the controversies surrounding UNRWA and its vital role in supporting Palestinian refugees while exploring the severe impact of military operations on local communities. McBride also addresses the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, contrasting the struggles faced by aid organizations with the urgent need for relief amid international skepticism. His insights reveal a complex interplay of advocacy and resilience in these troubled regions.

Eliza Fraser's shipwreck leads to unexpected survival alongside the Bacchola people, revealing the harsh outcomes of cultural misunderstandings. As narratives intertwine, her embellished tales spark not only sympathy but also controversy and colonial violence. The podcast delves into the duality of her story, exploring how sensationalism shifted public perception and justified historical atrocities against Indigenous populations. It challenges listeners to reflect on the legacy of such narratives and the impact of storytelling in shaping societal attitudes.

Jack O'Brien, co-host of The Daily Zeitgeist, joins to unravel the harrowing tale of Eliza Fraser, whose shipwreck inadvertently sparked a tragic genocide. They humorously navigate myths surrounding her survival, exposing the colonial misconceptions about Aboriginal people. The discussion dives into historical misrepresentation, highlighting the absurdities of explorers' narratives while contrasting them with Indigenous realities. Through laughter and critical analysis, they shed light on humanity’s capacity for misunderstanding and the complex legacy of survival amidst colonial encounters.

Dr. Kaveh Hoda, a doctor and returning guest, discusses the FDA's proposed changes to COVID vaccine guidelines, raising concerns about political interference and public trust. The conversation touches on the ethical dilemmas in vaccine research and the challenges of misinformation. They also reflect on historical events like the Tiananmen Square protests, emphasizing the relationship between workers and students in their struggle for democracy. The episode mixes serious analysis with humor, engaging listeners on complex societal issues.

Langston Kerman, a comedian and writer, dives into the bizarre realm of genetic technologies and de-extinction with a humorous twist. They discuss Dr. George Church's controversial eugenics-related projects and the ethical quandaries surrounding cloning extinct species. The conversation touches on a creepy genetic dating app that leverages personal data, raising serious privacy concerns. Kerman and the hosts also critique the financial motives behind de-extinction initiatives, questioning their true impact on conservation and highlighting the irony of prioritizing profit over genuine ethical responsibility.