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
44 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 1h
Part One: What's New With Andrew Tate?
What’s the latest with Andrew Tate? The hosts dive into his ongoing legal troubles, including serious charges and his questionable philanthropy claims. They express frustration over his controversial appeal, particularly among young men, contrasting it with the outrage from critics. The discussion mixes humor with serious critiques of Tate’s dangerous persona while navigating the complex relationship of his family with the political landscape. Expect engaging banter alongside a deep dive into the legal labyrinth and implications of his public image.
14 snips
Apr 19, 2025 • 3h 24min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 178
Spencer Jordan, a rank-and-file member of the Urbanor Workers Union, discusses the ongoing union strike that is shaking the foundations of workplace dynamics. He reveals the emotional toll of prolonged negotiations and management's resistance, highlighting the vital role of community solidarity in the fight for fair labor practices. Spencer shares insights on the power of collective action, the challenges of organizing in non-profits, and the broader implications of strikes for democratic workplaces, all while emphasizing the importance of worker rights and dignity.
16 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 2h 10min
CZM Rewind: The Andrew Tate Story (Part 3 & 4)
Ian Johnson, Cool Zone Media's supervising producer and editor, joins Robert and Sophie to dissect the captivating saga of Andrew Tate. They explore Tate's controversial rise to fame, his questionable business ethics, and strategies that exploit vulnerable young audiences. The discussion delves into his manipulative tactics, the appeal of his persona, and the societal implications of his messaging. The conversation is both critical and lighthearted, reflecting on the cultural impact of influencers like Tate while addressing the challenges posed by their ideologies.
28 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 1h 56min
CZM Rewind: The Andrew Tate Story (Part 1 & 2)
Dive into the complex world of Andrew Tate, exploring his controversial fame and the implications of his persona on social media. The discussion unveils his legal troubles, the mythopoetic men's movement, and critiques of modern masculinity. Insights into historical figures like Robert Bly add depth, while humorous takes on fairy tales showcase the evolving narratives of manhood. Delve into the darker side of Tate's empire, highlighting the ethical concerns of the cam girl industry and manipulative tactics used in his business ventures.
Apr 12, 2025 • 2h 47min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 177
In this engaging discussion, Ellie Ureman, a trans political comedy creator, Lex McMiniman from Teen Vogue, and labor activist Mark Medina delve into the pressing challenges faced by trans youth and immigrant workers. They analyze the media's portrayal of trans identities through the lens of Vivian Wilson's Teen Vogue cover and the fight for labor rights amidst state repression. The conversation highlights the importance of solidarity, community action, and creative storytelling in advocating for social justice and resilience in the face of adversity.
39 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 1h 20min
Part Two: Alfred Hugenberg: The Elon Musk of Weimar Germany
Amanda Montell, author of "Coltish," sheds light on the enigmatic Alfred Hugenberg, a media mogul who shaped propaganda during WWI and aligned with the Nazis. They discuss how Hugenberg manipulated public sentiment to prolong the war and enabled Hitler's rise amid political chaos. Montell dives into the dark sides of nationalism and colonialism, exploring Hugenberg's aspirations for African expansion and his morally ambiguous decisions. The conversation intriguingly parallels Hugenberg's ambition with contemporary figures, sparking reflections on power and ethics in today's landscape.
70 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 1h 14min
Part One: Alfred Hugenberg: The Elon Musk of Weimar Germany
Amanda Montell, author of "Cultish" and a cults expert, joins the discussion about Alfred Hugenberg, a key player in the rise of Nazi Germany. They explore his morally ambiguous political strategies, drawing unsettling parallels to modern entrepreneurship. Their conversation highlights Hugenberg's unification efforts and his complex relationship with nationalism and anti-Semitism. With humor and insights, they delve into the dangers of aggressive nationalism and the societal impacts of his actions in a transformative era.
Apr 5, 2025 • 3h 6min
It Could Happen Here Weekly 176
Andrew Sage, an expert on Latin American anarchism, delves into the fascinating history of anarchism in Uruguay and its implications for social movements and labor dynamics. Jamie Loftus, a librarian, sheds light on the alarming impacts of federal budget cuts on library funding, emphasizing their crucial role in supporting marginalized communities. Together, they explore the intersection of community resilience, anarchist thought, and the pressing need for advocacy in the face of systemic challenges and misinformation affecting public services.
Apr 4, 2025 • 42min
How ICE Is Targeting Students for Deportation
In a gripping discussion, the hosts explore how targeted deportations are disrupting academic freedom and activism, especially for students involved in pro-Palestine protests. They delve into alarming doxing campaigns and the chilling effects on free speech within educational institutions. Legal battles faced by students underscore the complexity of immigration laws and the emotional toll of deportation threats. The episode highlights the intersection of social media and government surveillance, raising critical questions about civil rights for non-citizens.
38 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 55min
Part Two: The Grifters Behind The Fake Autism 'Cure' Industry
Delve into the troubling world of the fake autism 'cure' industry, where desperate parents are often exploited. Hear about shocking scams, including a doctor selling spoiled blood to prey on families. The dangers of dubious therapies like chelation and hyperbaric oxygen treatment are critically examined, revealing their harmful effects. With a blend of humor and insight, the hosts unpack the emotional toll on families navigating these unproven 'cures,' highlighting the urgent need for accountability in a field rife with deception.
