

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

May 7, 2022 • 4h 27min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 33
All of this week's episodes of It Could Happen Here put together in one large file.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 5, 2022 • 1h 7min
Reading: Unintended Consequences
Robert is joined by Karl from InRange TV for a discussion and reading of the book, Unintended Consequences.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11 snips
May 3, 2022 • 1h 23min
Part Three: John Wayne: A Dude Who Sucked
Francesca Fiorentini joins to dissect the complex legacy of John Wayne, a Hollywood icon who embodied traditional masculinity yet held controversial views. They candidly examine Wayne's racism and his influence on American culture during the Vietnam War. The conversation contrasts his heroic film roles with his problematic off-screen actions, humorously addressing the absurdity of his legacy. With a touch of satire, they also explore how modern portrayals of masculinity diverge from Wayne's outdated ideals, revealing the enduring impact of his character.

Apr 30, 2022 • 4h 25min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 32
Nicholas Scott, a PhD candidate specializing in Latin American history, brings his expertise on the Chilean revolution and Cordones to the conversation. They dive into the often-overlooked Cordones movement and its implications during Allende’s presidency. Scott discusses Santiago's social fabric in the 1960s, the role of worker movements, and the rise of Christian democracy. The dialogue also touches on labor resistance leading up to 1973 and the evolving political landscape amidst significant social changes in Chile.

14 snips
Apr 28, 2022 • 1h 31min
Part Two: John Wayne: A Dude Who Sucked
Francesca Fiorentini joins the discussion on the controversial life of John Wayne, exploring his tumultuous relationships and the stark contrast between his patriotism and draft evasion during WWII. She humorously recounts Wayne’s drunken antics and the chaotic production on set, while addressing the troubling representation of women in his films. The conversation also critiques Wayne's absurd casting choices, highlighting a notorious role as Genghis Khan, and wraps up with a nod to the importance of mental health awareness.

22 snips
Apr 26, 2022 • 1h 26min
Part One: John Wayne: A Dude Who Sucked
Francesca Fiorentini joins the discussion to dissect the complex legacy of John Wayne, revealing the darker sides of his larger-than-life persona. They humorously navigate Wayne's intense embodiment of hyper masculinity and its lasting influence on American culture. The conversation peels back the layers of Wayne’s childhood and familial struggles, exploring themes of villainy and nostalgia. They also reflect on the evolution of masculinity, shedding light on the romanticized American ideals and the often troubling realities behind them.

Apr 23, 2022 • 3h 38min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 31
The podcast delves into the tragic Atlanta shooting incident, enhancing awareness of systemic violence against marginalized communities. It discusses Texas's political struggles impacting local retailers, and the intersection of immigration policies with labor dynamics. Historical contexts explore capitalism, racism, and misogyny, all tied to violent acts. Additionally, the challenges faced by transgender individuals accessing hormone replacement therapy are examined, revealing the complexities of healthcare and societal stigma surrounding gender identity.

Apr 21, 2022 • 1h 14min
The Audubon Guy Was A Monster
David Bell discusses John Audubon, a naturalist and racist monster. They touch on managing expectations, frustrations of drawing birds, Audubon's controversial and deceptive practices including reliance on slavery, and the Audubon Society's attempts to address their racist history.

22 snips
Apr 19, 2022 • 1h 5min
Part Three: That Time Britain Did A Genocide in Ireland
Robert is joined by Prop for part three of our series on the Great Hunger. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 16, 2022 • 3h 34min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 30
In this discussion, Ukrainian journalist and anarchist Romeo Kokriatsky shares gripping firsthand accounts of the ongoing war in Ukraine. He sheds light on the devastating atrocities faced by civilians, including mass graves, and critiques Russian propaganda tactics that misrepresent the conflict. Kokriatsky emphasizes the psychological toll on communities and the critical need for accurate information. He draws parallels between current events and historical fascism, urging listeners to recognize the urgency of the Ukrainian crisis and the importance of global solidarity.


