THIS IS REVOLUTION ＞podcast

THE MAU MAU HOURE: ISRAEL, LEBANON, AND IRAN ft. C. Derick Varn Nov 03, 2024

Pascal discusses Israel's escalating conflict in the middle east. Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

The Champagne Room 10/29/24: Nick Cannon Gushes Over Candice Owens and Fresno Wants to Lock up a 6 Year Old Oct 31, 2024

This one was rough, but worth it. Enjoy and share. Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 658: TITANS OF CAPITAL: HOW CONCENTRATED WEALTH THREATENS ALL OF HUMANITY ft. PETER PHILIPS Oct 31, 2024

Get Peter's book here: https://a.co/d/hAtLLq0 In Titans of Capital, Peter Phillips, a political sociologist, poses three key research questions: To what extent do the wealthy influence—or even dominate—decision making that affects all of us in society? Who are the most powerful people? And how does the accumulation of capital work? Networks of wealthy individuals have evolved since the COVID-19 pandemic, and Titans of Capital shows how the financial investments of transnational elites threaten human rights and the future of the planet. Private capital investments serve as the primary operating funds for international arms sales, private prisons, and other socially negative activities. These investments fuel the continued use of carbon-based energy leading to amplified global warming and climate change. Military spending is a critical component of continued wealth concentration and political power in the world. Spending on arms and intelligence is a required aspect of maintaining global power and control. Dealing with Russia, China, Iran and other “rogue” states is a continuing agenda for agents of the world power elites. Propaganda machines in Western capitalist governments serve to protect elite wealth by promoting military conflicts to open new regions for economic investment. Phillips warns that while continued concentration of global capital increases the profits enjoyed by the global economy’s “Titans,”, it also increases global inequality, starvation, and civil unrest, threatening the lives of the hundreds of millions of people living in extreme poverty. It is imperative to ask how we can reverse the concentration of Titan wealth and revitalize grassroots democracy unbridled by extreme wealth. Identifying 117 global Titans by name and exposing the networks and interests that unite them provides readers opposed to militarism and committed to economic equality with crucial tools to directly engage the power elite who endanger life on earth. Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

POP LIFE ft. JASON MYLES Ep. 34: EXORCISM FILMS, PATRIARCHY, AND NEOLIBERAL REALISM w/ Conan Neutron & Dr. Touré F. Reed Oct 30, 2024

Introduction

The exorcism genre holds a unique place in horror, often drawing on themes of innocence, spiritual warfare, and patriarchal power structures. While its narratives are typically formulaic, revolving around a “possessed” figure (often a young girl) and priests arriving to cast out the demon, the genre also reflects broader societal anxieties about bodily autonomy, religious authority, and family dynamics. Many exorcism films lean heavily on cultural tropes, with a few standing out for their engagement with more complex themes or departures from genre norms.

Today, we’ll explore five significant exorcism films, from iconic classics to new interpretations, analyzing how each interacts with the genre’s conventions and challenges them to varying degrees. Here’s our list:

The Exorcist

William Friedkin’s The Exorcist (1973) is the foundational work of exorcism horror, causing a stir for its visceral portrayal of demonic possession and controversial religious imagery. The infamous production faced numerous setbacks, often seen as reflecting the turmoil depicted onscreen. This film’s critical reception and lasting impact reveal how effectively it tapped into societal anxieties of the 1970s.

Exorcist III

Written and directed by The Exorcist author William Peter Blatty, Exorcist III (1990) continues the narrative with a fresh perspective, emphasizing psychological horror over shock value. Blatty’s direction draws on philosophical themes, creating one of the genre’s most introspective entries. Many consider it a more layered and, in some ways, superior work to Friedkin’s original.

The Exorcism of Emily Rose

The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005) marks a genre revival that experiments with the "based on a true story" approach. This film combines courtroom drama with horror, exploring themes of faith, science, and institutional power. It questions societal definitions of sanity and the legitimacy of religious experiences in a secular world, creating a nuanced discussion on mental health and belief.

Late Night with the Devil

The newest on our list, Late Night with the Devil (2023), departs from genre norms by framing possession within the setting of a fictional 1970s talk show. This film is a genre-bending take, blending exorcism horror with cultural satire on sensationalized media, reminiscent of the era’s late-night television programming. It plays with the exorcism format while commenting on the media as a modern “exorcist,” claiming to expose dark secrets.

Il Demonio (The Demon)

As one of the earliest entries in exorcism horror, Il Demonio (1963) is an Italian film often overlooked. It visualizes the exorcism genre’s gendered dynamics, with a narrative that intersects spousal abuse, mental illness, and patriarchal control. The film uses demonic possession as a metaphor for the internalized violence faced by women under societal and marital oppression, offering a critical lens on traditional power structures.

These films offer a window into not only horror but broader social and cultural anxieties. Each one engages with themes of power, authority, and the societal “other,” reminding us of the genre’s unique capacity to critique and unsettle dominant narratives.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE Ep. 63: Do You Have An Obligation To View Terrible Things Online? Oct 29, 2024

Discourse around the Palestinian genocide suggests that we have a moral obligation to 'not look away' from gory and horrifying images, Stefan assess if these claims have any merit.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 657: MORNINGSIDE: THE 1979 GREENSBORO MASSACRE AND THE STRUGGLE FOR THE SOUL OF AMERICA ft. Aran Shetterly Oct 28, 2024

Get Aran's book here: https://a.co/d/ayUF4sV On November 3, 1979, as activist Nelson Johnson assembled people for a march adjacent to Morningside Homes in Greensboro, North Carolina, gunshots rang out. A caravan of Klansmen and Neo-Nazis sped from the scene, leaving behind five dead. Known as the “Greensboro Massacre,” the event and its aftermath encapsulate the racial conflict, economic anxiety, clash of ideologies, and toxic mix of corruption and conspiracy that roiled American democracy then—and threaten it today. In 88 seconds, one Southern city shattered over irreconcilable visions of America’s past and future. When the shooters are acquitted in the courts, Reverend Johnson, his wife Joyce, and their allies, at odds with the police and the Greensboro establishment, sought alternative forms of justice. As the Johnsons rebuilt their lives after 1979, they found inspiration in Nelson Mandela’s post-apartheid Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Martin Luther King Jr’s concept of Beloved Community and insist that only by facing history’s hardest truths can healing come to the city they refuse to give up on. This intimate, deeply researched, and heart-stopping account draws upon survivor interviews, court documents, and the files from one of the largest investigations in FBI history. The persistent mysteries of the case touch deep cultural insecurities and contradictions about race and class. A quintessentially American story, Morningside explores the courage required to make change and the evolving pursuit of a more inclusive and equal future. Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: PRIVATE EQUITY IN COLLEGE SPORTS AND LEFTISTS IN LAW ENFORCEMENT? Oct 27, 2024

Should private equity help form a super conference? If so what does that mean for college athletics?

Also, should leftists infiltrate law enforcement?

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 656: WHAT'S LEFT OF METAL ft. DAVID BURKE Oct 24, 2024

FIND REVOL PRESS BOOKS HERE: https://www.revolpress.com/ In this episode of THIS IS REVOLUTION podcast, we delve into the intricate and often contradictory relationship between heavy metal and the political left. For decades, heavy metal has been both celebrated for its rebellious ethos and criticized for tolerating reactionary practices, from casual misogyny to far-right ideologies. Yet, as David Burke's compendium from Revol Press, What’s Left of Metal, argues, there exists within metal a powerful current of leftist social critique, challenging capitalist systems, authoritarian structures, and the commodification of culture. Metal, Burke and his contributors assert, is more than an outlet for rebellion; it is a space where leftist politics and radical critiques of power can thrive. As the compendium notes, “metal is a space where the contradictions of modern life—alienation, repression, and exploitation—are confronted head-on, yet it is also a culture that has often been co-opted, commodified, and neutralized by the very systems it seeks to challenge.” (What’s Left of Metal). This duality raises important questions: how does metal retain its radical potential while being recuperated into mainstream culture? Is there a leftist core to metal’s ethos of resistance, or is the genre too compromised by its reactionary tendencies? And as metal becomes more culturally legitimate in the Global North, what’s truly left of metal’s subversive edge? Our conversation today with David Burke will explore these questions, focusing on the intersection of metal and leftist politics, the genre’s potential to contribute to revolutionary praxis, and how metal’s critique of society can be weaponized for the left in the contemporary moment of permanent crisis. Burke’s collection challenges us to think critically about the role of extreme music in leftist organizing and cultural production, as well as how left commentators, metal musicians, and scholars can engage more deeply with metal's revolutionary potential. Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 655: EXAMINING THE P.DIDDY CASE AND OTHER SHENANIGANS ft. CHAMPAGNE SHARKS Oct 23, 2024

LISTEN TO CHAMPAGNE SHARKS HERE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/champagne-sharks/id1242690393

Welcome to another episode of THIS IS REVOLUTION>podcast, where we explore the deeper political and social dynamics behind current events. Today, we’re diving into the recent indictment of once-revered hip hop mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs on federal racketeering charges. Combs, once celebrated for his entrepreneurial prowess and impact on hip hop culture, is now facing serious accusations of running an elaborate criminal enterprise centered on human trafficking, abuse, and sexual exploitation.

The charges against Combs are shocking but reflect the darker realities lurking behind the glamor of the entertainment industry. As outlined by the justice.gov indictment, Combs is accused of forcing women into "Freak Offs"—elaborate sex performances orchestrated through coercion, violence, and manipulation. He allegedly used narcotics, financial dependency, and physical threats to control his victims, echoing the practices of global human trafficking networks. This brings to mind a broader and more disturbing reality: are we confronting this issue with the seriousness it demands, or are we only shocked when such allegations involve a high-profile celebrity?

While the focus is on Combs now, we must also recognize that these charges are not isolated to one individual. The exploitation of women and their commodification through violence, coercion, and control is a pervasive and deeply entrenched issue in capitalist society—one where power dynamics are exploited to maintain control and assert dominance. These behaviors are happening right now in some corners of the world and for years they’ve been glorified in the hip hop community. It’s just pimping, and as the song says, it ain’t easy.

Is hip hop having a “mask off” moment? With the Combs and Young Thug trials, do these legal proceedings have a negative effect on the genre or the way it’s perceived? Rap music, once thought to embody “realness” in the case of Young Thug, is being challenged on its authenticity. It’s never really been fantasy escapism, but “the unreported news” of the inner city told by the people that lived it. In the case of Young Thug, is this all a lie now? Is it what people like Gerald Horne and Stanley Crouch have viewed? A minstrel show of underclass troupes?

In the case of Combs, the pimp has been a glorified figure for some time in Black urban life. Isn’t Puffy nothing more than a modern iteration of Max Julien in The Mack?

Today, we will discuss the nature of these crimes, the structural realities that enable them, and what this case reveals about our collective attitudes toward abuse, celebrity culture, and power. Are we finally waking up to the harsh realities of human trafficking, or do we still turn a blind eye until a famous name is attached to it?

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE EP. 62: The Modern Man: Identity, Gender, and Social Dynamics Oct 22, 2024

Welcome to "Philosophy for the People" with Stefan Bertram. In this episode, Stefan explores the intricate concept of masculinity in the contemporary world. With co-host Ben absent, Stefan takes a deep dive into the evolving identity of men, the diminishing gender gap, and the role of feminism in reshaping male self-perception.

Amidst personal anecdotes and humorous reflections, Stefan addresses the complexities of gender equality and the societal shifts that have brought men and women closer than ever in terms of rights and opportunities. He delves into the historical context of gender roles, highlighting how the past decades have redefined what it means to be a man or a woman.

Stefan also examines the influence of modern movements and ideologies on male identity, touching upon the rise of incels, the impact of feminism, and the psychological introspection prevalent in today's society. With a critical eye, he questions the traditional notions of manhood and the challenges men face in navigating a world where gender dynamics are continuously evolving.

Tune in to gain insight into the philosophical underpinnings of gender identity and the societal forces shaping the modern man's role in a rapidly changing world.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 654: THE ECUADORIAN CANDIDATE ft. NANDO VILA Oct 21, 2024

Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/5ea23H8o3m0?si=ZqhE9xZnZtsLm3pQ

Welcome to another episode of THIS IS REVOLUTION>podcast, where we go beyond the typical election season chatter to explore the deeper political landscapes shaping our world. As we approach the U.S. presidential election, much of the media will focus on poll numbers, political ads, and electoral horse races. In 2024, politics has become more akin to team sports, where tribal loyalties and spectacle often replace substantive policy debates. But instead of playing the same game, today we’re turning our attention to Latin America, where political struggles reveal more about the urgent global fight for justice and democracy.

Our guest today is Nando Villa, the producer of the documentary The Ecuadorian Candidate, which follows the candidacy of young left-wing economist Andrés Arauz as he runs for the presidency of Ecuador. Arauz faced a formidable opponent in Guillermo Lasso, a wealthy conservative banker. The documentary captures Arauz’s efforts to unite fractured left movements and appeal to the Ecuadorian electorate in the hope of building a progressive future.

This film goes beyond just one election—it highlights the broader struggles of the Latin American left in the face of neoliberal hegemony and the complex political terrain of the region. We’ll dive deep into these themes and ask what lessons can be learned from Arauz’s campaign for those fighting for progressive change around the world.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: NFL MIDSEASON TRADES AND WHY YOU SHOULDN'T EAT SPICY FOOD BEFORE A DATE Oct 20, 2024

J and Mac talk these Midseason NFL moves and more. Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE ft. 61: What's Left of Liberalism? Oct 18, 2024

Stefan goes on a bit of a rant!

Read Ben's substack here: https://benburgis.substack.com/

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 653: The Legacy of Ernest Calloway (pt.1) ft. Paul Prescod Oct 17, 2024

Read Paul's article in Jacobin magazine here: https://jacobin.com/2024/09/ernest-calloway-civil-rights-teamsters Check out our patron exclusive series "The Crisis Papers": https://shorturl.at/A6YJr Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

POP LIFE EP. 33: NO ONE MAKES A RIGHT WING TURN (a J.Myles Rant) Oct 16, 2024

The guest didn't show, so J went on a bit of a rant about the industry around podcast gossip, the year in music 1994, and why Blizzard of OZ is the first hair metal record. Enjoy.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH!

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Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!)

THANKS Y'ALL

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg

Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/

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Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles

Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/

Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

THE CHAMPAGNE ROOM 10/10/24: LIBERAL VOTING ANTHEMS AND NINJAS Oct 14, 2024

The Crüe listens to a voting anthem sung by the cast of Hamilton, then Jason shows a movie (The Lost Empire 1984) and Pascal accidentally ends the stream!

EP. 652: CANADA'S LONG FIGHT AGAINST DEMOCRACY ft. OWEN SCHALK & YVES ENGLER Oct 14, 2024

Get Owen's Book here: https://shorturl.at/F15Sv Canada’s Long Fight against Democracy is a sweeping overview of Canadian-backed coups since 1950. It documents Canada’s contribution to the ouster of over 20 elected governments from Mohammad Mossadegh in Iran to Patrice Lumumba in Congo, Salvador Allende in Chile and Jean Bertrand Aristide in Haiti. As part of subverting democracy, Ottawa has cut off aid and imposed illegal sanctions in the hopes of turning the population against the targeted government. Canada has also financed opposition civil society groups and allowed protesters to use its embassy as a staging point to topple a president. They’ve even organized a secret international gathering to discuss overthrowing a popular leader, decided a marginal opposition politician was the legitimate president, and dispatched the Canadian military to subvert democracy. While government officials and the media regularly frame conflicts with geopolitical competitors as motivated by a belief in democracy, the authors debunk the notion that decision-makers in Ottawa are driven by promoting democracy abroad. Washington’s role in subverting elected governments has been detailed in countless studies by scholars and observers from around the world. The literature on Canada’s role in anti-democratic meddling is comparatively limited. In fact, this is the first book to focus on Canada’s role in subverting democracy around the globe. Owen Schalk is a writer from Manitoba. He is the author of Canada in Afghanistan: A Story of Military, Diplomatic, Political, and Media Failure, 2003-2023 (Lorimer Books, 2023). His articles have been published by Alborada, Monthly Review, and Protean Magazine, and he contributes a weekly column to Canadian Dimension magazine. He also writes fiction, and you can read his short stories in Quagmire Literary Magazine, Sobotka Literary Magazine, Vast Chasm Magazine, and more. Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: NFL FIRINGS, COLLEGE FOOTBALL UPSETS, and POST COITAL POST GAME CONFERENCE Oct 13, 2024

J and Mac talk sports, then as usual--it goes off the goddamn rails.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

THE CHAMPAGNE ROOM 10/8/24: Ben Burgis Joins J. & MT to Talk Music Longevity Oct 10, 2024

Use code CARROTRAISIN for a discount for the book launch event in L.A.

Click here for tickets: https://shorturl.at/BW1hd

EP. 651: IS SHAWN FAIN AND LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS? ft. BEN BURGIS Oct 10, 2024

Four Essays on Palestine Book Launch f/ Ben Burgis, Jason Myles, Ana Kasparian Tuesday October 22, 2024 7:30pm

Lawless Brewing Co.

5275 Craner Avenue Los Angeles, CA 91601 United States Click here for tickets: https://shorturl.at/BW1hd Read Ben's piece on Shawn Fain here: https://jacobin.com/2024/08/shawn-fain-uaw-dnc-labor Can Shawn Fain take the UAW beyond standard Democratic Party politics? Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 650: ONE YEAR IN OF ISRAEL'S GENOCIDAL CAMPAIGN IN PALESTINE Oct 09, 2024

One Year in Gaza

Introduction

As we mark one year of the genocidal war in Palestine, the world is beginning to recognize the brutal reality of Israel’s continued bombardment and occupation of Palestinian territories. Global consciousness is shifting, with more people protesting and challenging the once unquestioned narrative of Israel as a state acting in self-defense. Yet, in the United States, the propaganda machine remains relentless, framing this conflict through a lens that supports maintaining the status quo—a lens shaped by decades of bipartisan support for Israel's aggressive policies. As war continues to be a point of consensus across the political spectrum, what does this mean for Palestinians caught in a violent cycle of occupation, bombings, and systemic oppression? What will this mean in an election year, when U.S. political leaders prioritize military alliances over justice? The possibility of this war escalating into a global conflict grows ever more real, and the failure to challenge the dominant narrative only brings us closer to catastrophe.

Israel’s actions—its illegal settlements, the ongoing siege of Gaza, and the relentless attacks on Palestinian civilians—are not simply matters of foreign policy but integral to U.S. interests in the Middle East. American imperialism and military aid to Israel help sustain the occupation, entrenching the power dynamics that allow such violence to continue. For the Palestinians, this war represents not just a moment of acute suffering but a continuation of decades of displacement, apartheid, and denial of their right to self-determination. As we reflect on one year of this genocidal campaign, we must also confront the moral and political bankruptcy of a global system that allows this to happen with impunity.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE ft. BEN BURGIS Ep. 60: Are There Really Good and Bad Movies? Oct 08, 2024

Follow Ben's Substack Here: https://benburgis.substack.com/ Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

CHAMPAGNE ROOM 10/3/24: J. AND MT DISCOVER A.I. PODCASTS! Oct 07, 2024

Jason inputs his upcoming hair metal article into a AI podcast generator and the Crüe roasts some played out fashions from the 90s. Enjoy.

EP. 649: THE BIDEN ADMINISTRATIONS DISASTROUS CLIMATE LEGACY ft. UMAIR IFRAN Oct 07, 2024

Read Umair's article here: https://shorturl.at/XTyRn Regardless of who becomes the next U.S. president, will either candidate truly attempt to address the climate emergency? Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 648: TRUMP WANTS TO DISMANTLE THE DEEP STATE TO WEAPONIZE IT Oct 06, 2024

Read Kuba and Ben's article here: https://shorturl.at/WunJZ How bad could a second Donald Trump term get? That depends on how serious he is about replacing the career bureaucrats who staff the security state with MAGA loyalists ready to carry out his most demented policies. Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

THE CHAMPAGNE ROOM 10/1/24 CBS Morning Show Attacks Ta Nehisi Coates Oct 03, 2024

The Crüe watches Coats attack on CBS and more fun videos.

EP. 647: THE SEDUCTIVE POWER OF MICROFINANCE ft. Mara Kardas-Nelson Oct 03, 2024

Get Mara's book here: https://us.macmillan.com/.../wearenotabletoliveinthesky In the mid-1970s, Muhammad Yunus, an American trained Bangladeshi economist, met a poor female stool maker who needed money to expand her business. In an act widely known as the beginning of microfinance, Yunus lent $27 to forty-two women, hoping small credit would help the women pull themselves out of poverty. Soon, Yunus’s Grameen Bank was born, and the idea of giving very small, high-interest loans to poor people took off. In 2006, Yunus and the Grameen Bank won the Nobel Peace Prize for “efforts to create economic and social development from below.” But there’s a problem with this story. There are mounting concerns that these small loans are as likely to bury poor people in debt as they are to pull them from poverty, with borrowers from India to Kenya facing consequences such as jail time and forced land sales. Reportedly hundreds have even committed suicide. What happened? Did microfinance take a wrong turn, or was it flawed from the beginning? Mara Kardas-Nelson’s We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky is about unintended consequences, blind optimism, and the decades-long ramifications of seemingly small policy choices. The book is rooted in the stories of women borrowers in Sierra Leone, West Africa. Their narratives, woven through a deep history of modern international development, are set against the rise of Yunus’s vision that tiny loans would “put poverty in museums.” Kardas-Nelson asks: What is missed with a single, financially focused solution to global inequity that ignores the real drivers of poverty? Who stands to benefit and, more important, who gets left behind? Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 646: DOING TIME IN AN ALABAMA PRISON ft. MATTHEW VERNON WHALAN Oct 02, 2024

Read Matthew's substack here: https://matthewvernonwhalan.substack.com/

Introduction

On today’s episode of THIS IS REVOLUTION podcast, we confront the stark realities of the U.S. carceral system, focusing on the brutal conditions inside Alabama’s prisons. The U.S. is notorious for having the highest incarceration rate in the world, and Alabama stands out as a grim case study of what many scholars and activists have long called a form of modern slavery. The state’s prison system is severely overcrowded, underfunded, and rife with violence, neglect, and systemic abuse. With prisoners subjected to inhumane living conditions, forced labor, and an indifferent legal system, Alabama’s prisons highlight the broader contradictions of a capitalist society that profits off of punishment and exploitation rather than rehabilitation and justice.

Our guest today, journalist Matthew Whalan, has dedicated his work to uncovering these harsh realities, particularly through his Substack article, "A Life in Alabama Prison", and a recent interview that has brought attention to the horrific living conditions behind bars. His reporting sheds light on the voices of those often silenced, emphasizing the daily indignities, brutality, and neglect that people incarcerated in Alabama face. Whalan’s work helps us grasp not only the human cost of incarceration but also the structural forces that perpetuate it, including racial and economic inequality, capitalist exploitation, and political neglect.

As we delve into this discussion, we must ask ourselves: what does the treatment of prisoners in Alabama reveal about the broader U.S. prison-industrial complex? How do these systems of punishment maintain and reinforce the racial and class hierarchies on which American capitalism is built? Whalan’s work encourages us to move beyond liberal reforms and understand the carceral system as a fundamental pillar of capitalist exploitation—a system in which prisons function not as institutions of rehabilitation but as warehouses for surplus populations deemed disposable by the state.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE ft. BEN BURGIS EP 59: Israel's Wars, Liberal World Order, and Multipolarity Oct 01, 2024

Read Ben's Substack here: https://benburgis.substack.com/

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

THE CHAMPAGNE ROOM 9/26/24 Is Looting a Revolutionary Act Sep 30, 2024

The gang is joined by 1st hour guest Vanessa Wills and watch some funny videos, and one video about looting as praxis. Enjoy!

EP. 645: THE ETHICAL MARX ft. Vanessa Wills Sep 30, 2024

GET VANESSA WILLS BOOK HERE: https://shorturl.at/BoUGp

Introduction

In her groundbreaking book Marx's Ethical Vision, Vanessa Wills offers a profound exploration of the often-overlooked ethical dimensions of Karl Marx’s work. While Marx is frequently reduced to economic and materialist analysis, Wills demonstrates that Marx’s critique of capitalism is deeply moral, rooted in a vision of human flourishing, social justice, and the development of a fully realized human community. As she writes, "Marx's vision was not simply a denunciation of capitalism’s economic structures, but a call for an emancipatory transformation that would allow humanity to fulfill its potential through collective self-determination and freedom" (Marx's Ethical Vision, p. 48). This framing gives us a fresh lens through which to understand Marx, not merely as a critic of economic systems, but as a moral philosopher concerned with the ethical implications of alienation, exploitation, and human suffering.

In today’s conversation, we will dive deep into Wills’s analysis, discussing how Marx’s ethical commitments underpin his revolutionary politics and what relevance they hold in contemporary struggles for social justice. We’ll explore the intersection of ethics and politics in Marx’s thought, touching on themes like alienation, labor, and human freedom, and consider how Marx's ethical vision might inform today’s movements for social and economic liberation.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: WHY ARE WE SO IMPATIENT WITH YOUNG QUARTERBACKS? Sep 29, 2024

Watching an NFL pregame show today feels less like a breakdown of the upcoming contests and more like an exercise in oddsmakers reducing the game's strategy to betting talk. Fantasy sports have long been the gateway drug into the sports betting app economy. Now, sports punditry mimics the shock-jock antics of the '90s, turning analysis into a hyper-commercialized spectacle of “hot or not” takes.

Let’s consider the legendary 1983 draft class. Hall of Famers, including three elite quarterbacks, emerged from that round, yet how many Super Bowls did they collectively win? Just two, both by John Elway. Dan Marino, arguably one of the most talented quarterbacks of all time, appeared in a single Super Bowl after obliterating passing records in 1984, an era where the run game was king. Yet despite Marino's historic success, his classmate Eric Dickerson would never touch a Super Bowl trophy either, even after setting an NFL record for rushing yards in a season.

Now, imagine these legendary players in today’s era, where success is too often framed through the lens of fantasy sports and app-based betting. Could they withstand the media’s hunger for instant success or survive the ruthless churn of the 24-hour sports news cycle?

Take the 2024 season. Players once written off as "busts" are starting to rewrite their stories. Malik Willis, discarded as an afterthought in Tennessee, is showing flashes of brilliance. Sam Darnold, written off in New York and quickly traded, has found new life as a backup-turned-starter. Jared Goff, shipped off to Detroit as a disappointment, has led the Lions to NFC North contention. In the pre-fantasy sports world, these players would have had time to grow into their roles, but today's instant-gratification culture has no room for slow-burning talent.

Pundits already labeled the 2024 first overall pick, Caleb Williams, a bust after just three games. Bryce Young, last year’s first pick, faced the same brutal criticism even before his rookie season ended. Compare that to the ’83 draft class, who were given time to play through rookie mistakes and eventually lead teams to the playoffs, even Super Bowls. But in this hyper-commercialized, short-term focused environment, teams cut bait on young talent before it has time to develop, driven by media narratives and the endless thirst for immediate returns.

Sports betting and fantasy leagues have fueled this culture of rapid turnover. It’s no longer about team-building or long-term development. The market dictates which players are valuable, not for their contributions on the field, but for how well they perform against the betting lines or in fantasy stats. In our current epoch, we want what we want, when we want it, with little patience for process or growth. Has this commodification of athletes killed player development?

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

We’ll dive into this on today’s episode.

Champagne Room 9/24/24: Kendrick is Overrated; Long Live Wayne Sep 26, 2024

Clark and I have a fun sports and music talk, where Clark explains why Kendrick Lamar is overrated and Lil Wayne should be playing the super bowl. There's also some trash rapper video commentary. Good times.

EP. 644: MAKE SPORTS BETTING TABOO AGAIN ft. CLARK RANDALL Sep 26, 2024

Read Clark's work here: https://shorturl.at/XvteW

Introduction

Watching sports has always been a communal experience, a moment to witness skill, strategy, and competition. But these days, for many people, simply “watching the game” seems to be a thing of the past. The line between spectatorship and speculation has blurred, thanks to the rise of fantasy sports and the explosion of legal sports betting across the United States. As I sat at my favorite bar watching last night’s Monday Night Football doubleheader, it became clear that the focus of contemporary sports coverage is no longer on the game itself, but on the odds, prop bets, and over/unders. What used to be a pastime has transformed into a calculated, quantified experience, where every throw, every yard, and every touchdown is tied to a monetary wager.

The commodification of sports through the lens of gambling has created a new form of alienation. Fans are no longer simply enjoying a game but engaging in what amounts to a mass, profit-driven enterprise designed to exploit their passions. The apps, sponsorships, and partnerships with gambling companies make placing bets easier and more normalized than ever before. But who really wins in this system?

Our guest today, Clark Randle, a journalist for *Jacobin* magazine, argues that it’s not the fans who are winning. In his latest article, "Make Sports Betting Taboo Again," he shows that the real losers are downwardly mobile young men, whose participation in sports betting often deepens their financial precarity. As states rake in the tax revenue from legalized gambling, the social costs mount. Clark challenges us to reconsider our normalization of sports betting and asks: where should the Left draw the line in a world of hyper-liberalized consumption?

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 643: THE PROBLEM WITH BLACK LIBERAL VENTRILOQUISTS Sep 25, 2024

Introduction

Recently, political commentator and NGO CEO, Angela Rye appeared on The Breakfast Club morning show, engaging with Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein and her running mate Butch Ware. Rye wasted no time in attacking Stein, invoking the well-worn "spoiler" argument, often cited by liberals and conservative critics alike, framing this election as "the most important of our time." This rhetoric pits a perceived fascism from the right against a supposed fascism from the left, which conveniently reinforces the capitalist status quo by limiting political debate to the narrow confines of the two-party system.

In her critique, Rye portrayed Stein as a political failure, dismissing her candidacy as a distraction from the "real issues" facing Black Americans. This critique, however, serves to obscure the reality that Stein, while flawed, represents a political platform far to the left of anything the Democratic Party offers. Stein’s Green Party candidacy pushes for policies that directly confront the neoliberal and imperialist frameworks of both major parties, a fact seemingly lost on Rye, who positions herself as a spokesperson for the 41 million Black Americans.

Rye’s role in this context mirrors what Adolph Reed Jr. critiqued over three decades ago in his collection of essays, Class Notes. In the chapter titled “What Are the Drums Saying, Booker?”, Reed describes how Black public intellectuals often serve as intermediaries for white audiences, performing an interpretation of the "Black experience" that suits liberal sensibilities. Rye’s race reductionist arguments, presented as radical critiques, actually reinforce the logic of liberal pluralism and identity politics, reducing complex issues like capitalism, imperialism, and class struggle to mere questions of racial representation.

While Rye has occasionally voiced concern over U.S.-backed atrocities, such as the genocidal war in Gaza, her alignment with Kamala Harris—a Black woman who has publicly supported Israel’s right to "defend itself"—underscores her complicity in the very structures of imperialism she claims to oppose. This reflects a broader tendency in the liberal racial discourse, where race-conscious rhetoric is weaponized to justify imperialist and capitalist policies under the guise of representation.

In essence, Rye is engaging in what might be termed "race-conscious imperialism," using racial identity as a shield for defending a capitalist-imperialist agenda. This is a continuation of the tradition Reed identified—one where race is used to deflect from class struggle and systemic critique, ensuring that neoliberal capitalism remains unchallenged, even when presented as a fight for racial justice.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

The Champagne Room 9/19/24 Sep 23, 2024

MT shows Jason the internet gossip around Andrew Schultz and two Black Brits.

EP. 642: FAST FOOD AND AUTOMATION ft. Alex Park Sep 23, 2024

Introduction

Recently, during a trip to San Francisco, I witnessed a family, awestruck, stepping out of a driverless car—a vivid reminder of the city's dual realities. On one hand, San Francisco remains a global tech hub, a gleaming symbol of neoliberal capitalism's promise of innovation. On the other, the glaring failures of this same system are evident in the staggering number of unhoused people lining the streets. Walking into a McDonald's, I was struck by the ubiquity of automated kiosks and mobile apps, making the labor force practically invisible.

While many on the left celebrate labor victories at Starbucks, the struggles of fast food workers remain underemphasized. The "Fight for 15" campaign—a demand that would still leave workers in poverty in cities like San Francisco—highlights the grim reality. Although California's minimum wage is higher, 20 states still cling to the federal minimum wage of $7.25. The specter of automation is wielded as a fear mongering tactic, used to suppress labor demands, but this is a decades-old strategy to prevent worker solidarity.

As Alex Park argues in his article for *Jacobin*, **"Raise Wages? No Need—McDonald's Is Hiring Inmates Instead"**, the fear of robots replacing workers is a distraction from neoliberal capitalism's deeper exploitations. Park writes:

> "In Toronto, the salad and smoothie chain Freshii came under fire two years ago for outsourcing order-taking to workers in Nicaragua, beamed to customers through a video conferencing system."

This practice, while momentarily halted, continues in other forms, with companies like Happy Cashier exploiting virtual labor from the Global South.

Park also raises the specter of child labor, a grim reminder of how low-wage industries exploit the most vulnerable. According to the Economic Policy Institute, cases of child labor violations in fast food have more than tripled from 2015 to 2022. Meanwhile, states like Alabama are passing laws to weaken child labor protections, legalizing what is already happening under the radar.

The reality is that automation, child labor, and even prison labor aren’t inevitable byproducts of technological progress. They are deliberate strategies under neoliberal capitalism to drive down wages and weaken worker solidarity, ensuring the continuous extraction of profit from marginalized labor. Tonight, we will delve into Alex Park’s work and discuss how to resist these exploitative tactics and build a global working-class movement in solidarity with fast food workers.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: NFL AND COLLEGE RECAP 9/18/24 Sep 22, 2024

This past NFL weekend reminded us that flashes of brilliance in a preseason game from highly touted rookies often don't translate directly into regular-season success, at least not right away. Transitioning to the NFL isn't simply about individual talent—it’s a process that requires time, adaptation to complex systems, and team cohesion. But in a league where players are commodified and thrown into media narratives driven by a capitalist sports industry, these athletes are often set up for failure.

Take Caleb Williams, the number one overall pick. His potential is undeniable, but the Bears were never just one player away from being a contender. They’re a franchise that has long been defined by its defensive legacy, not its quarterbacks. Cutting ties with Justin Fields too early in their desperate search for a savior QB reflects a broader problem: the NFL’s obsession with immediate results and marketability over long-term team-building.

This commodification is part of a larger issue in sports today. In the post-Moneyball era, franchises often treat players like marketable assets rather than focusing on sustainable success. The media plays a crucial role in this, constructing simplified, binary narratives of failure or success to feed a 24-hour sports cycle largely driven by gambling interests. When an athlete struggles, like Sam Darnold did with the Jets, they’re labeled a "bust" without recognizing the systemic failures that contributed to their struggles. Now, Darnold is proving his potential in Minnesota, throwing a beautiful 97-yard touchdown pass to Justin Jefferson, showing what he can do when provided with a functional system and offensive weapons.

The media and the sports industry rely on these narratives, particularly when it comes to quarterbacks. Figures like Brock Purdy, who wasn’t highly touted coming out of college, face constant skepticism even when they succeed. Their talent is questioned, not because of their play, but because they don’t fit into the hyper-commercialized mold of what a “star quarterback” should look like.

We need to start asking bigger questions: are players like C.J. Stroud thriving solely because of their talent, or do they benefit from better organizational structures than their peers? How much of the success and failure we assign to individual players is actually rooted in the deeper systemic issues within the capitalist machine of modern sports? Why are young quarterbacks given all the blame while the broader economic and management failures of their teams go unchecked?

We'll discuss this and more in today's episode.

EP. 641: NEW METHODS TO DEMOCRATIZE THE ECONOMY ft. COLIN B. ANTHES Sep 19, 2024

A New Approach to Building Community Wealth

Introduction

In many leftist circles, the term "wealth building" can trigger skepticism. It often brings to mind the language of neoliberal capitalism, where wealth creation is synonymous with the exploitation of labor and the concentration of resources in the hands of the few. With wealth inequality reaching historic highs, housing costs soaring beyond reach for many, and environmental devastation rampant due to the unbridled market forces of capital, should we rethink how we approach wealth? The concept of "community wealth building" offers an alternative rooted in collective ownership and control, challenging the individualist, competitive frameworks of traditional wealth accumulation.

Community wealth building seeks to empower workers and communities through cooperative models of enterprise, public ownership, and socially controlled financial institutions. It challenges the logic of capital by redistributing economic power from corporations and financial elites to the people. As Colin Bruce Anthes argues in his article "Canada Needs A Federal Community Wealth Building Agenda" for Canadian Dimension, this model represents a radical departure from the status quo, positioning economic justice as the foundation of democratic life. In a time when neoliberalism has hollowed out communities and starved them of resources, could community wealth building be the pathway to a more egalitarian and environmentally sustainable future?

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined,
BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg
Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast
www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/
Twitter: @TIRShowOakland
Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP: 640: THE PSEUDO PROGRESSIVE POLITICS OF WHITE PRIVILEGE ft. CEDRICK SIMMONS & HADASS SILVER Sep 18, 2024

Introduction

When we talk about “white privilege,” does renouncing it close the racial wealth gap or liberate people of color from systemic oppression? Will it dismantle mass incarceration or challenge the roots of racialized poverty? Or does this discourse obscure the deeper class antagonisms that undergird capitalism itself? Today, we’ll explore what’s often missed in these discussions: how the focus on white privilege detracts from a collective fight against the structures of capital, reinforcing economic inequalities and diverting attention from solidarity-building across racial lines.

In her essay *Inventing 'White Privilege': Pseudo-Progressivism in American Political Discourse Hadass Silver critiques how “white privilege” rhetoric serves to reproduce, rather than challenge, class exploitation. This discussion will critically examine the five main facets of "white privilege" discourse: (1) greater access to material resources, (2) the enjoyment of rights without discrimination, (3) the dominant culture as a normative standard, (4) racial superiority, and (5) not being discriminated against.

Silver highlights that while these elements of privilege may describe real disparities, they fail to address the root cause of social stratification—capitalism itself. As Silver argues, “privilege rhetoric perpetuates a hyper-focus on identity and obscures the material conditions that shape inequality, class exploitation, and the functioning of capital”. By focusing on perceived privilege, we obscure the real mechanisms of exploitation that affect all working-class people—Black, Brown, and white. This framing, as Silver emphasizes, is “anti-solidaristic,” driving a wedge between potential allies in the struggle for a more egalitarian society.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg
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www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/
Twitter: @TIRShowOakland
Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

The Champagne Room 9/12/24: The Greatness of Prince and Mos Def is Overrated Sep 16, 2024

Jason once again looks for trouble, this time with the Moor community, and then he explains why he things Mos Def is an idiot.

EP. 639: TIM WALZ AND THE GEORGE FLOYD PROTESTS ft. EAMON WHALEN Sep 16, 2024

Read Eamon Whalen's piece here: https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2024/08/tim-walz-protests-2020-encouraged-vance-george-floyd-frey-minneapolis/?fbclid=IwY2xjawFRZx1leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHdg8ypBSSTTStTpOh7ci99PQVwucUVqBlO3DzVWfqKtSkwDBQFe0emaxnA_aem_PIYhRgCx7YSnxAH8OeEr3A

Introduction

As the dust settles from the latest presidential debate, one narrative has remained clear—the Republican Party is steadfast in its strategy of smearing Kamala Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, as far-left radicals. Recently, JD Vance claimed that, under Walz’s leadership as governor of Minnesota, he defunded the police and allowed rioters to wreak havoc in the streets. Yet, as Eamon Whalen points out in his article for Mother Jones, “Tim Walz Was No Protest Leader,” this portrayal of Walz is far from accurate.

Rather than being a progressive icon, Walz governed in a manner more aligned with establishment politics. As Whalen explains in his article, Walz responded to the unrest in the wake of George Floyd’s murder not by leading a movement for racial justice, but by calling in the National Guard to suppress the protests, speaking in the “feel your pain language” that we come to see so often from the Democratic Party in these instances. In fact, then-President Donald Trump praised Walz’s firm response to the protests, undermining the claim that he represents any radical break from the Democratic Party’s centrist trajectory.

Despite this, Walz has been touted as a progressive alternative to the status quo, largely due to the work of Minnesota’s left-leaning legislative body, which has overshadowed his more moderate approach. So, is Walz truly a progressive leader, or has he simply benefitted from the political climate of a progressive state? We’ll dive into the protests that defined 2020, Walz’s role in managing the response, and how he has ascended to the national stage as Harris’s vice presidential pick.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: NFL & COLLEGE FOOTBALL TALK Sep 15, 2024

The first week of the NFL season is officially in the books, and what’s clear is that the lack of preseason action—paired with concerns about key starters getting injured—has led to many coaches holding back, leaving some crucial players without valuable playing time. The rookie starters, in particular, looked quite pedestrian against experienced NFL defenses. As for the Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes and company still look like the best team in the league. But after them, who takes the number two spot?

The San Francisco 49ers faced a significant setback, missing key offensive players, including Christian McCaffrey, the most drafted player in fantasy football, due to a calf injury. Meanwhile, the New York Jets didn’t seem to improve much with Aaron Rodgers under center, struggling just as they did with Zach Wilson last season. Their defense couldn’t contain the 49ers' ground game, and their backup RB had a career-high in rushing yards.

In Minnesota, will Sam Darnold finally live up to his first-round potential? If he does, the Vikings may find themselves in a tricky situation with a project quarterback unable to even practice this season, should they sneak into the playoffs.

On the college football front, Notre Dame suffered a shocking loss to NIU—does this spell the end for head coach Marcus Freeman? Meanwhile, Brian Kelly will have to regroup after LSU's upset loss to USC. Can he rebuild the team into a powerhouse? Is Texas the best team in the country? And is Nebraska back on the rise with their freshman QB sensation?

We’ll discuss all this and more in today’s show!

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: NFL AND COLLEGE FOOTBALL SHOW Sep 13, 2024

Introduction:

The NFL season is kicked off this Thursday, and there’s plenty to be excited about. This year, we’re witnessing history with 15 Black quarterbacks starting, signaling a shift in the league’s dynamics. But the big question on everyone’s mind is whether C.J. Stroud will continue his remarkable trajectory from a standout rookie season or fall victim to the dreaded sophomore slump. Meanwhile, Bryce Young, another first-round pick, is looking for improvement, and all eyes are on Caleb Williams, who impressed during the preseason. Williams has the monumental task of playing quarterback in Chicago, a city that has long struggled to find a true franchise QB. Could he be the one to change that narrative?

Over in Denver, the post-Peyton Manning era has been challenging, but there’s hope that Bo Nix might finally fill that void. On the college football front, the discussion around the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) money is heating up. These changes are fundamentally altering the game, and some coaches, like Dabo Swinney of Clemson, might be stuck in the past, as evidenced by Clemson’s recent loss to Georgia. The portal provides opportunities for seasoned players from smaller schools to shine at bigger programs, but it also presents a dilemma: should athletes stay at a small school where they’re guaranteed playing time, or take a gamble on a bigger stage?

Cam Ward’s journey has been emblematic of this new era. While Miami’s win over the Florida Gators was convincing, questions remain about Ward’s development. Despite making plays, his size and consistency in hitting receivers in stride remain concerns. And then there’s Deion Sanders, perhaps the most talked-about 4-8 coach in history. Sanders has struggled to develop talent outside of his family, yet his son Shedeur Sanders continues to dazzle, showing why he might be the first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Meanwhile, Travis Hunter is making a case as the best player in college football, though Arizona’s Teteriora McMillan, with his jaw-dropping 304 yards and 4 TD performance against New Mexico, might be the most NFL-ready wide receiver since Randy Moss.

The USC vs. LSU game was undoubtedly the highlight of the week, but not everyone got to see it, thanks to the ongoing battles in the streaming wars. From the Olympics to Disney’s power move over DirecTV, the landscape of sports broadcasting is more fragmented than ever, causing frustration for fans.

There’s a lot to unpack, and as always, we’ll find time to be ridiculous along the way. Let’s dive in!

Champagne Room 9/10/24 Sep 12, 2024

Jason goes off on his disdain for hotdogs, we watch the Tyreek Hill police bodycam footage and then it really gets weird! Enjoy.

EP. 638: IS HARM REDUCTION ENOUGH? ft. Dustin Guastella Sep 12, 2024

Read Dustin's article in Damage magazine here: https://damagemag.com/2024/04/15/making-the-present-the-enemy-of-the-future/?fbclid=IwY2xjawFOHOBleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHaY-t0tK8-MNrkDldt2468CK0SMMTGww2zPcQOq5VwYqdrE8z0nYif5WxQ_aem_OHeGIKGuPW6a-WH-lcdo3g

Is Harm Reduction Enough?

Introduction

- In his latest piece for *Damage Magazine,* Dustin Guastella tackles the growing opioid crisis in America’s deindustrialized city centers, critiquing the widely accepted harm-reduction model. His article, "Making the Present the Enemy of the Future," argues that current policies, while positioned as compassionate solutions, fail to address the deeper social causes of addiction and poverty. As he states, *“we repackage the preservation of bare life as progress,”* pushing aside the social question that’s driving people into drug-induced misery.

Tonight we’ll ask the question, “Is the harm reduction model enough?”

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 637: MARXISM, LIBERALISM AND THE WOMEN'S QUESTIONS ft. Milena Steinmetzer & Alex Herbert Sep 11, 2024

Read Alex and Milena's essay here: https://alexherbert.substack.com/

Introduction:

In the latest two-part essay from Alexander Herbert's Substack, he collaborates with Milena Steinmetzer to delve into the complexities of the "Women Question." The essay seeks to differentiate between liberal feminism, which has become somewhat orthodox in the United States, and Marxist or materialist feminism. As Herbert and Steinmetzer argue, the distinction is crucial for understanding the broader struggle for women's liberation within a class-based framework.

In Part 1 of the essay, they write: "As socialist activists and theorists, we’ve often found ourselves in situations where our friends and ‘allies’ question our feminist credentials or the type of liberation we seek for women. Part of the reason stems from a failure to understand the difference between liberalism and leftism (particularly in the United States, where the former president purposefully conflates the two). Even within ‘leftism,’ anarchism and progressivism advocate a type of feminist theory devoid of real class analysis that is more in line with liberal individualism than socialist collectivism. Another reason for the misunderstanding is the simple fact that liberal feminism benefits from being the oldest tradition, as the struggle for things like suffrage, equal pay, and equal rights aspire to equalize the sexes within a system that depends on individualist ideology. The assumption has been that 'womanhood' alone constitutes a 'community,' even though most people are willing to admit that the economic interests of women in the 1% are vastly different than those in the 99%."

This essay comes at a crucial time, especially as we approach the November presidential election, where identity politics will be on full display with Kamala Harris challenging Donald Trump. The discussion of feminist theory is more relevant than ever, especially when considering figures like Sheryl Sandberg, whose "lean in" feminism epitomizes the liberal model that Herbert and Steinmetzer critique.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 638: LULA AND BRAZIL THE SECOND TIME AROUND ft. ALEX HOCHULI Sep 10, 2024

Lula da Silva's return to office in Brazil marks a critical attempt to undo the conservative rollback of his party's previous progressive reforms. Under Michel Temer and Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil saw an erosion of social programs, environmental protections, and Indigenous rights that the Workers' Party (PT) had championed in the 2000s. Lula’s reinstatement of programs like *Bolsa Família*, designed to address food insecurity for over 33 million Brazilians, and his commitment to halting environmental destruction in the Amazon are core components of his platform. However, the Brazil Lula governs today is far different than the one he left in 2010.

The ideological landscape, both domestically and globally, has shifted dramatically. After Dilma Rousseff's ouster, Brazil became more polarized, with Bolsonaro's right-wing populism galvanizing large swaths of the electorate through nationalist and anti-left rhetoric. This new political environment reflects broader global trends: a backlash against what is often derisively called "wokeness" or "globalism." Right-wing populists, sovereigntists, and national-conservatives have risen in opposition to the neoliberal policies of the past few decades, creating a more fractured political order.

Our guest today, Alex, argues that this shift mirrors larger geopolitical tensions that he terms the "new Cold War." In an upcoming essay, he draws upon thinkers like Frederic Jameson and Slavoj Žižek to examine how these cultural and ideological battles are unfolding. As Alex writes:

"A succession of 'cultural logics' have been identified since Frederic Jameson first wrote about postmodernism as the logic of late capitalism in 1984. In 1997, Slavoj Žižek discoursed about multiculturalism as the cultural logic of multinational capitalism. And if you were so inclined, you could write essays arguing that the past decade has seen wokeness emerge as the cultural logic of late neoliberalism."

This notion of "wokeness" — encompassing progressive values, neoliberal economics, and the curtailment of freedoms by corporate and political interests — serves as the ideological backdrop for much of today's political polarization. Alex posits that unlike the original Cold War, which was a genuine ideological clash between capitalism and socialism, this "new Cold War" is less about systems of governance and more about capitalist competition dressed in thin ideological coatings. Whether framed as "authoritarianism versus democracy" or "stability versus chaos," the deeper struggle appears to be between nationalist forces that reject the perceived excesses of globalization and neoliberalism, and a fragmented liberal order grappling with its own contradictions.

In Brazil, Lula faces these challenges head-on. His efforts to restore progressive policies and repair the damage done by Bolsonaro are emblematic of a broader struggle against right-wing populism and anti-globalist sentiment. How Lula navigates this new political terrain will be a crucial test of whether left-wing governance can effectively counter the growing influence of right-populism and restore faith in a more egalitarian, internationalist approach to governance.

We discuss Lula da Silva's return to office in Brazil as part of a broader global context where progressive reforms face significant pushback and political landscapes have shifted.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 636: MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE: THE OBSCENE WEALTH OF THE RULING CLASS ft. ROB LARSON Sep 09, 2024

READ ROB'S BOOK HERE: https://www.haymarketbooks.org/books/2215-mastering-the-universe

Mastering the Universe

Introduction:

When we think of "Masters of the Universe," we may be reminded of He-Man, with his mighty sword, standing guard at Castle Grayskull against Skeletor and his monstrous allies. But in Professor Rob Larson's latest book, "Masters of the Universe: The Obscene Wealth of the Ruling Class, What They Do with Their Money, and Why You Should Hate Them Even More," There are no animated heroes or villains. Instead, Larson presents us with the all-too-real battle between the 1% and the rest of the world, where the obscene wealth of the elite continues to grow unchecked, resulting in deepening inequality, environmental devastation, and an entrenchment of power that threatens democracy itself.

The title may sound exaggerated, but Larson methodically explains how the ruling class wields unimaginable wealth, shaping global economic, political, and environmental outcomes in their favor. As Larson writes, "The system isn’t broken—it’s rigged. For the wealthy, inequality isn’t a bug in the system; it’s the feature." Since the Occupy movement brought the 1% into the national consciousness, this elite class has only fortified its hold over our institutions, exploiting crises like the COVID-19 pandemic to increase their fortunes even further.

Today, we'll delve into the moral, economic, and environmental obscenities of extreme wealth with Rob Larson, exploring how the elites use their fortunes to maintain power and destroy the planet. We’ll also examine what, if anything, can be done to dismantle this concentrated power before it’s too late.

We'll talk with economist and professor Rob Larson about his latest book, why we should hate the obscenely wealthy even more than we do, and much more! Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

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THE CHAMPAGNE ROOM CALL IN (audio) 9/3/24 Sep 05, 2024

We take some calls and go over MORE of the movies of 1989. So many releases!!!

POP LIFE EP. 32: WAS 1989 THE GREATEST YEAR OF CINEMA? Sep 05, 2024

Introduction:

When my good friend and fellow podcaster and radio host Kenzo Shibata hit me up and told me that he felt 1989 was the greatest year in film history, I thought that was a bold claim. Sure, I knew the original Michael Keaton *Batman* hit theaters that year, but beyond that, the details were a bit fuzzy. For many of us, especially those who came of age during the rise of home video, the lines between what was in theaters, what went straight to video, and what aired on cable often blur together. 1989 was a pivotal year—a moment when the cinematic landscape was rapidly changing, and the home video market was beginning to dominate how we consumed movies.

The year 1989 revitalized the superhero genre with Batman, saw Patrick Swayze transition from Dirty Dancing to playing the zen-like badass Dalton in Roadhouse, and introduced us to A-list actor Brad Pitt in the indie slasher Cutting Class. Christian Slater stepped into the spotlight as a teenage skateboarding detective in Gleaming the Cube, while Wes Craven tried to franchise another horror icon with Shocker.

Horror and comedy were in full swing that year, with Weekend at Bernie's giving us everyone's favorite dead uncle, and Disney making waves with The Little Mermaid. Robin Williams showcased his dramatic range in Dead Poets Society, while Denzel Washington delivered one of his most iconic scenes in Glory. Many believe that Spike Lee made a powerful statement with Do the Right Thing (I’m still trying to figure out what that “statement” is?), and James Spader broke away from his typical high school villain roles in Sex, Lies, and Videotape. Not to mention, George Lucas and Steven Spielberg brought us the third installment of the Indiana Jones franchise. And that's just scratching the surface!

So, grab your popcorn, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! We’ll be diving deep into the films of 1989, exploring every genre, every standout performance, and every iconic scene. And don’t forget—we’ll be opening up the phone lines in the Champagne Room for you to chime in with your thoughts. What films did we miss? What’s your favorite from this era?

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 635: IS A KAMALA HARRIS PRESIDENCY A GIFT FOR THE BLACK CHATTERING CLASS? Sep 04, 2024

Introduction:

The political landscape in the United States has shifted dramatically over the past few years. The ascension of Donald Trump, propelled by a wave of racial animus, faux populism, and a fierce rejection of identity politics, seemed to signal the end of the liberal racial identitarianism that flourished during the Obama years. However, the Democratic Party's recent announcement that Vice President Kamala Harris will be their nominee to face Trump in the upcoming election suggests that identity politics may still play a pivotal role in American politics.

Kamala Harris, the daughter of Indian and Jamaican immigrants, has long embraced both sides of her heritage. Yet, her identity has been a focal point of political attacks, with Trump recently attempting to question her Blackness in a room full of Black reporters—a move that backfired, eliciting boos from the audience. As the Democratic Party once again leans on the "I'm With Her" slogan, reminiscent of Hillary Clinton's campaign, the question arises: Will Harris's identity galvanize the African American intelligentsia, particularly in a post-George Floyd America where the chattering class has been notably quiet?

This episode of THIS IS REVOLUTION>podcast will delve into how the African American intelligentsia might react to a potential Kamala Harris presidency. Will they see her as a beacon of progress, despite her past role in the tough-on-crime policies of the 1990s, or will they reject her as another establishment figure out of touch with the needs of the Black community?

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE ft. BEN BURGIS EP. 58: HOW A VIABLE MARKET SOCIALISM MIGHT WORK Sep 03, 2024

READ BEN'S LATEST ESSAY HERE: https://substack.com/@benburgis/p-147077171?fbclid=IwY2xjawFCetBleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHTu1hjIvAgkHE-7cPcx8UE9fQV63D-fuP8yOP-_Re7WWaS1SsJBfc40m-g_aem_HJptMqhzCyQY1JQ3L7tioQ SIGN UP FOR THE SUBSTACK HERE: https://substack.com/@benburgis Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 634: RACE RIOTS IN THE U.K ft. RALPH LEONARD Sep 02, 2024

(bring in co-host and panel)

UK Race Riots

Introduction:

In the 2016 presidential race, Donald Trump popularized the term "fake news," a simplistic critique aimed at liberal mainstream media outlets like CNN. This phrase captures the way news can be manipulated, reflecting the political leanings of various stations, much like the concept of "Kayfabe" in professional wrestling—where the audience is kept in the dark about the predetermined nature of the matches.

In the wake of recent riots in the UK, this manipulation of information has come to a head. Following the July 29th brutal stabbing of three young girls attending a Taylor Swift-themed yoga session in Southport, a flurry of misinformation swept across social media. It was initially reported that their attacker was a 17-year-old Muslim immigrant, fueling racial tensions. In reality, the assailant was neither Muslim nor an immigrant; he was born in Wales. However, these facts were quickly overshadowed by a wave of false narratives propagated by far-right influencers like Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate.

As mainstream media struggled to keep pace with these online gossip networks, the lines between verified news and baseless rumor blurred, creating a dangerous cycle of misinformation. This raises critical questions: Do we trust the media to tell us the truth, or simply what we want to believe? What are the deep-seated roots of racial tensions between newly arriving immigrants and the people of England? How will the UK government respond to the rioters who attacked innocent immigrants and destroyed businesses under the guise of "Save the Children"?

These issues echo the moral panics of the past, such as the Satanic Panic of the 1980s, where children were used as a prop to push draconian legislation. With us today to discuss these pressing matters is Unherd columnist Ralph Leonard.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

THE MAU MAU HOUR w/ PASCAL ROBERT: An Evening with Corey Robin Sep 01, 2024

Read Corey Robin's latest piece here: https://www.newyorker.com/.../hayek-the-accidental-freudian Pascal sits down with Corey Robin. Should be fun. Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

The Champagne Room 8/27/24 (audio) Aug 29, 2024

Jason comments on steroid influencers and annoying streamers and their big Black Bucks

EP. 633: SURVEILLANCE IN SCHOOLS ft. ALLISON BUTLER Aug 29, 2024

Get the book here: https://www.routledge.com/Surveillance-Education-Navigating-the-Conspicuous-Absence-of-Privacy-in-Schools/Higdon-Butler/p/book/9781032812274?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwiaa2BhAiEiwAQBgyHs2MhoYab7Ld9RsFDkbYalCEXtkGqrxcuAPG34rqoksz0pRsI4c6yBoCbjkQAvD_BwE&fbclid=IwY2xjawE7fnNleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHcECBrn52bD-ZHA7es_QxesJuquayVNSc9fwp4bnhZsOFO5M0p6RoA8QAw_aem_RtfSDNDMjqwT9CJVbvM-1w

Surveillance in Schools

Introduction

In an era where alienation and loneliness have become almost normalized, the proliferation of surveillance technologies in our daily lives is both alarming, pervasive and sadly, accepted. These technologies are not only prevalent in our streets and workplaces but have also seeped into our educational institutions, raising critical questions about privacy, autonomy, and the very nature of schooling. Surveillance systems in schools claim to enhance safety by identifying potential threats, from school shooters to students exhibiting signs of suicidal ideation. However, the validity and ethical implications of these claims are hotly debated. Are these technologies truly protecting students, or are they contributing to a culture of mistrust and control, much like the predictive policing tactics used by law enforcement?

Today, we are joined by Allison Butler and Nolan Higdon, authors of the insightful book “Surveillance Education: Navigating the Conspicuous Absence of Privacy in Schools”. Their work delves into the complex and often troubling landscape of surveillance in educational settings, exploring how these practices affect not just safety, but the very essence of learning and human development. As Higdon and Butler point out, "In a society increasingly defined by surveillance, schools have become testing grounds for technologies that monitor, predict, and control behavior, often at the expense of students' rights and well-being." We will explore the implications of this surveillance, asking whether it is a necessary precaution or a net negative that deepens the sense of alienation and distrust in an already fragmented society.

Please welcome our guests Allison Butler is a Senior Lecturer and Director of the Media Literacy Certificate Program in the Department of Communication at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, USA. She is also Co-Director of the Mass Media Literacy non-profit organization, where she develops and runs training programs for teachers covering critical media literacy in K–12 schools, Vice President on the Board of the Media Freedom Foundation, and a spokesperson for Project Censored. Her research focuses on critical media literacy and critiques of surveillance technologies in education.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP.632: THE STARK REALITY OF EUTHANASIA ft ASHLEY FRAWLEY Aug 28, 2024

Read Ashley's work here: https://www.compactmag.com/.../assisted-dying-isnt-freedom/ https://unherd.com/.../assisted-dying-advocates-are.../ Welcome to today's episode of This Is Revolution, where we delve into the complex and often controversial topic of euthanasia. Known by terms such as "Death With Dignity" or "Medical Assistance in Dying" (MAID), euthanasia is increasingly presented as a humane option for those suffering from terminal illnesses or chronic conditions. But is it truly a compassionate choice, or does it mask a more troubling reality? Since Canada implemented the MAID program in 2016, there have been 44,958 deaths under the program, with 2022 alone accounting for 4% of all deaths in the country—a 31% increase from the previous year. This rise in MAID-related deaths has saved millions in healthcare costs, raising ethical questions about the role of euthanasia in society. Does it offer a dignified end for those who can no longer contribute economically, or is it a method of disposing of those deemed unproductive, such as the elderly and those with addiction issues? The expansion of MAID to individuals with mental illness and even "mature minors" has sparked global debate. Critics warn of a slippery slope where euthanasia might be seen as a solution for those facing not only illness but also poverty and other social injustices. Our guest today, Professor Ashley Frawley, has written extensively on the subject. She highlights how some academic papers argue that MAID serves as "harm-reduction" in an unjust world with little chance of improvement, suggesting that allowing euthanasia in such cases might prevent further suffering. A significant portion of the population seems to agree, with one-third of Canadians supporting MAID for individuals whose sole affliction is poverty. Is this a sign of a compassionate society, or are we edging toward a dystopian reality where economic productivity defines one's right to life? To explore these pressing questions, we are joined by Professor Ashley Frawley, who will help us navigate the ethical, social, and political implications of euthanasia. Please welcome Professor Ashley Frawley. Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE Ep. 57: David Moulton and Intelligent Design Interview Aug 27, 2024

Read Ben's Substack here: https://benburgis.substack.com/ Read David's article here: https://www.compactmag.com/.../what-intelligent.../... Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined,
BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg
Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast
www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/
Twitter: @TIRShowOakland
Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

Champagne Room 8/22/24 Aug 26, 2024

J. and MT show Dan Black commercials.

EP. 631: IMMIGRATION UNDER BIDEN ft. Dan Melo Aug 26, 2024

Immigration Under Biden/Harris

Introduction

As the Democratic National Convention concludes tonight in Chicago, the party's platform is crystal clear: preventing the return of Donald Trump at all costs. But as we look toward the future, critical questions remain. What, if anything, will fundamentally change under a potential Kamala Harris administration, especially when compared to another term for Joe Biden? And what has really changed under Biden’s leadership?

Take immigration, for example. The Biden administration halted the construction of Trump's infamous border wall and temporarily ended the "Remain in Mexico" policy, only to restart it again under pressure. In major metropolitan areas like New York and Chicago, immigration has become a potent political weapon used against the Democratic Party—cities that once proudly declared themselves "sanctuary cities" now find themselves overwhelmed by the influx of migrants, a crisis exacerbated by Republican governors like Ron DeSantis, who have strategically relocated thousands of undocumented immigrants to these urban centers. While these political maneuvers play out, a legitimate and significant increase in migration to the U.S. Southern border continues.

Historically, immigration has been a bipartisan issue focused on determining the "right kind of immigrant" who should be allowed to enter. How does the Biden administration's "Build Back Better" immigration policy stack up against Trump’s hardline approach? And what should we expect from Kamala Harris if she becomes president? If Trump returns to office, could we see the largest jobs program since the New Deal, but this time focused on mass deportation?

Tonight, we're joined by lawyer and author of *Borderlines,* Dan Melo, to explore these pressing questions and more.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 630: A NEW ECONOMIC BILL OF RIGHTS FOR THE 21ST CENTURY ft. Harvey J. Kaye & The Letterhack Aug 25, 2024

Read the New Economic Bill of Rights Comic here: https://www.commondreams.org/opinion/economic-bill-of-rights-comic?fbclid=IwY2xjawEzmsFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHaVTRIxhpn5QhTzpH0EDfD2UzZ34r7k1mr7NlTTOevkiESD8DPS9M1eGBg_aem_i6TbzKTrWCL1SXtMAG9NJQ

New Economic Bill of Rights

Introduction

In a time when the promises of democracy and economic security seem increasingly out of reach for many, Harvey J. Kaye’s work serves as a crucial reminder of the progressive potential embedded in American history. In his book, *The Four Freedoms: Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Evolution of an American Idea,* Kaye revisits FDR’s 1941 State of the Union address, where Roosevelt articulated the Four Freedoms—freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. These principles were not merely rhetorical; they laid the groundwork for the New Deal and shaped the social contract between the American government and its citizens.

Now, in collaboration with the Letterhack, Kaye has reimagined this legacy through the comic *The Economic Bill of Rights,* a modern-day call to action that seeks to rekindle the radical spirit of the New Deal era. This vision of economic justice and social democracy is not just a relic of the past but a roadmap for the future—a future where, as Kaye asserts, "the American people might rise up and demand a government that truly represents them."

Today, we delve into Kaye's argument for why these freedoms are more relevant than ever and discuss how the Left can leverage this historical framework to advance a progressive agenda in the 21st century.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 629: The Breakdance Illuminati: A Birthday Bash with Jason Myles Aug 23, 2024

Welcome to a special birthday edition of This Revolution podcast, hosted by Jason Myles, who celebrates his 47th birthday in style. Joined by the voice of reason, MT, and a host of guests, including the enigmatic "Quinn-turn," the conversation takes unexpected turns, from the peculiarities of breakdancing PhDs to the hilarity of technical difficulties.

Jason and his guests dive into the cultural impact of breakdancing, the authenticity of TikTok influencers, and the societal shift towards instant validation in the internet age. With a mix of humor and insight, the episode explores the commodification of personal lives and the importance of individualism.

Featuring surprise appearances by Frenchie, Dr. Claw, and Toure Reed, this episode is a whirlwind of laughter, reflections, and birthday wishes. Tune in for a rollercoaster of topics, from nostalgic tech memories to the significance of waiting and patience in today's fast-paced world.

Don't miss this lively and unfiltered celebration, where the lines between serious discussions and comedic banter blur, making for an unforgettable birthday special!

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 628: THE CARGO CULT OF WOKENESS ft. CHRISTIAN PARENTI Aug 22, 2024

Read Christian's work here: https://catalyst-journal.com/2024/06/the-cargo-cult-of-woke

The Cargo Cult of Woke

Introduction:

Eight years ago, the term "woke" was popularized in mainstream culture through Childish Gambino’s hit song, where it signaled an awareness of social injustices, particularly those perpetuated by systemic racism. “Stay woke” meant staying alert to the potential dangers posed by institutional powers. However, in recent years, "woke" has undergone a significant transformation, morphing from a call to consciousness into a shorthand for a new kind of political correctness—one that gives off a radical sheen, but is without true class politics.

In his latest article for *Catalyst Magazine*, "The Cargo Cult of Woke," Christian Parenti examines how this shift in meaning reflects broader cultural and political changes. Parenti argues that what we now call "woke" culture is less about genuine social change and more akin to a "cargo cult"—a symbolic performance of radicalism that ultimately serves to reinforce the status quo rather than challenge it. As Parenti writes, “Woke politics is not the politics of emancipation; it is the politics of submission, disguised as resistance.”

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined,

BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

POP LIFE EP. 31: WAS 1977 THE GREATEST YEAR OF MUSIC? Aug 21, 2024

Listen to the 1977 playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1gKJPho9NU5BnUjtui5bTE?si=ddccd3dbc8a249ec

The year Conan and I came into the world! Bowie and Iggy, Elvis dies, punk explodes into mainstream conscious and much more! Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

The Champagne Room 8/15/24 (T-shirts & Turtle Necks) Aug 19, 2024

J. and MT discuss what people get wrong about the Australian breakdancing sensation RAYGUN, what Black culture is and isn't, then the show goes off the rails.

EP. 627: THE POLITICAL THEORY OF LIBERAL SOCIALISM ft. MATT MCMANUS Aug 19, 2024

Get Matt's Book here: https://www.routledge.com/The-Political-Theory-of-Liberal-Socialism/McManus/p/book/9781032647234

In today's hyper-political climate, people often claim sharply defined political identities, with "liberal" frequently used as a pejorative in far-left and socialist circles rather than as a descriptor for those who align themselves with leftist ideals. This makes Matt McManus's choice of terminology in his latest book, *Liberal Socialism*, particularly provocative for many on the left.

McManus challenges these rigid categorizations by exploring the potential synthesis of liberal and socialist principles. He argues that "liberalism and socialism are not necessarily in conflict, but can instead complement each other in the pursuit of a more just society." This nuanced perspective invites readers to rethink the boundaries of leftist thought, pushing beyond the conventional disdain for liberalism in radical circles.

As McManus writes in his book, "To achieve a truly democratic society, we must embrace the best of both liberal and socialist traditions, recognizing that each has something vital to contribute to the fight against inequality and oppression."

In this episode, we'll dive into McManus's arguments, examining why his concept of *Liberal Socialism* might be more relevant now than ever, even if it raises eyebrows among those who consider themselves staunch socialists.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 626: AN EVENING W/ JREG Aug 15, 2024

Welcome to another episode of THIS IS REVOLUTION>podcast, where we delve into the complexities and absurdities of our modern world. Today, we have a special guest who thrives at the intersection of satire and social commentary—YouTuber JREG. Known for his sharp wit and keen insight into the chaotic nature of political discourse, JREG has carved out a unique space in the digital landscape, challenging us to reconsider our perspectives through humor and satire.

With a channel that explores everything from the radicalization of political ideologies to the nuances of internet culture, JREG’s work invites us to reflect on the absurdity of the systems that govern our lives. As we navigate through these turbulent times, his content resonates with a growing audience seeking clarity and comedic relief amidst the noise. Today, we will explore JREG's creative process, his views on the current state of political discourse, and the role of satire in shaping public opinion.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 625: THE MIRROR WORLD OF LEFT IDENTITARIANISM ft. BEN BURGIS Aug 14, 2024

Read Ben's article in Damage Magazine here: https://damagemag.com/2024/07/30/left-identitarianism-is-also-a-mirror-world/

Diaganolists, Doppelgangers, and Left Liberal Identitarians: A Review of the New Naomi Klein Book Doppelganger

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The concept of a doppelganger is often reserved for the realm of science fiction and noir thrillers, but in politics, the idea of a doppelganger holds its own peculiar intrigue. Here at This is Revolution, we've encountered our own version of a doppelganger—a show that shares some surface-level similarities, like having Black men and the word "Revolution" in its title. However, upon closer inspection, these similarities begin and end with the name.

Over the years, I've noticed people confusing the two shows, likely because the other show began with a completely different name and was eventually forced to change it. If you're really paying attention, you’d see that the radical rhetoric they espouse is more of a theatrical performance, wrapped in a contrarian nature and a penchant for identity politics.

Ben Burgis, in his recent piece for Damage Magazine titled "Left Identitarianism is also a Mirror World," addresses this phenomenon. He describes a political “diagonalism” that superficially mirrors the Left but aligns with drastically different political priorities. This doppelganger of the Left is a shadowy reflection—using its rhetorical notes for opposing ends.

Burgis writes about how this diagonalism is “anti-war” when it comes to Democratic actions in Ukraine but reveres Trump despite his aggressive foreign policy moves. They claim to support free speech and oppose Big Tech, but not to the extent of democratizing these platforms—just reshaping them to fit their agenda, with a preference for billionaires like Elon Musk over Mark Zuckerberg.

This so-called “anti-establishment radicalism” that echoes the rhetoric of the Left is, in reality, a mirror doppelganger serving the interests of the bosses and the Republican Party. It is a critical examination of how political narratives can be co-opted, leaving behind a superficial resemblance that betrays its origins.

Let's delve into this discussion on political doppelgangers and explore how they influence public perception and political discourse.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE ft. BEN BURGIS Ep. 56: The Thinkers That Shape the Political Ideology of JD Vance Aug 13, 2024

Ben and Stefan discuss the intellectual influences of J.D. Vance through the prism of 'what ones has Ben read' Read Ben's essay here https://substack.com/home/post/p-146862000 sub to his substack https://substack.com/@benburgis Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 625: CONTROLLED OPPOSITION THEORY ft. 1DIME Aug 12, 2024

Watch and follow Tony's work here: https://youtu.be/7uPevWDAYFI?si=8rba_MV997XYmLU7

Here in the United States, and throughout the Western world, protests, school walkouts, and boycotts have erupted in response to Israel's relentless assault on the people of Gaza. The conflict has been raging for almost a year, yet in this election cycle, the pressing issue of which candidate will work toward brokering a peace deal or ceasefire in the region has not taken center stage in the debates. While protests continue, the encampments have been cleared out, and the conversation around President Biden—dubbed "Genocide Joe" by some critics—has been muted by the hope of another Trump defeat, this time at the hands of Vice President and Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris.

This raises a critical question: Are these protests merely cathartic exercises that give the illusion of challenging the political hegemony of the two flanks of capital? Our guest today, who goes by the internet moniker 1Dime, believes that much of what we perceive as "agitation" is actually "controlled opposition." According to this perspective, the presence of law enforcement at these protests is not due to fear of uprising but to protect physical property and create an illusion of conflict.

Join us as we delve into this provocative analysis with 1Dime, exploring the true impact of protests and whether they genuinely challenge the status quo or serve as a safety valve for public dissent.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: SPORTS UPDATE Aug 11, 2024

Welcome to the show, where we bring you the latest and greatest in the world of sports! We've got an exciting lineup of stories to dive into today, starting with a monumental achievement in baseball. Blake Snell made headlines with his no-hitter for the San Francisco Giants, cementing his status as one of the most dominant pitchers in the league. We'll break down the game and discuss what this means for the Giants' playoff hopes.

In college football, the buzz isn't just about the teams but the stadiums themselves. Music superstar Pitbull is making waves with his ambitious proposal to rename Florida International University's stadium to "Pitbull Stadium." We'll explore how this move could impact the university and the broader landscape of college sports.

Turning to the NFL, pre-season action is heating up as teams gear up for the regular season. We'll cover the latest developments and standout performances as players fight for their spots on the roster. And speaking of the NFL, rumors are swirling around the potential trade of Brandon Aiyuk, the dynamic wide receiver from the San Francisco 49ers. We'll analyze the trade rumors and speculate on how this could reshape teams heading into the new season.

So sit back, relax, and join us as we delve into these stories and more on today's show. Let's get started!

EP. 624: TRUMP AND THE BLACK VOTE Aug 09, 2024

Are Black Voters Leaving the Democratic Party?

The recent shift in the American political landscape has been marked by an evolving narrative surrounding race, economic challenges, and political allegiance. Not long ago, the United States experienced a racial reckoning that resonated across the nation. In response, corporate America pledged approximately $50 billion to address racial inequities during the George Floyd summer, promising a more equitable future. In the political arena, Joe Biden made a significant commitment during his presidential campaign to choose a woman of color as his running mate, resulting in Kamala Harris becoming the Democratic Party's presidential candidate.

However, as the Biden administration took office, it seemed that the urgency to address systemic racial issues waned. Discussions about police violence and the historical injustices faced by Black Americans, including reparations, faded into the background. While the administration avoided the controversial route of massive tax cuts, other economic challenges emerged. Inflation soared, affecting working-class Americans across the country. Economists point to larger global factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine as significant contributors to these economic woes.

In this context of unmet expectations and economic strain, a notable political shift is occurring among Black men, who are increasingly expressing disillusionment with the Democratic Party. This growing sentiment is driving some to consider supporting Donald Trump in upcoming elections, despite the complexities surrounding his policies and rhetoric.

This introduction sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the interplay between race, economics, and political affiliation in America today, highlighting the nuanced factors influencing voter behavior and party dynamics.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

The Champagne Room 8/6/24 Aug 08, 2024

The CRÜE examine a professor that attempts to explain AAVE. Jason gets mad. Hilarity ensues. ENJOY!

EP. 623: KAMALA AND THE COLORISM QUESTION Aug 08, 2024

In a recent address at a Black journalist convention, Donald Trump launched a controversial attack on Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris by questioning her mixed-race heritage. He claimed ignorance about whether Harris, who has an Indian mother and a Black father, identifies as Black or Indian. This attack echoes his previous racial jabs, notably when he dubbed Senator Elizabeth Warren "Pocahontas," mocking her self-proclaimed Native American ancestry during the 2020 race. While Warren's response to Trump's provocation resulted in an embarrassing revelation of minimal Native ancestry, Harris's situation is distinct. Her heritage is well-documented; she has proudly embraced both aspects of her identity, from her involvement in one of the oldest Black sororities to her education at the historically Black Howard University.

Many within the GOP express unease with Trump's race-based attacks, fearing electoral repercussions not just in the presidential race but also in down-ballot contests. However, it is worth noting that Trump’s racially charged tactics have proven effective in the past. Yet, attacking Harris as a "racial imposter" is unlikely to yield the same results as with Warren.

Trump’s rhetoric on Harris resonates with certain factions, such as the ADOS (American Descendants of Slavery) movement, and even touches upon themes from Afro-pessimism. This academic perspective posits that the world's cultures are fundamentally anti-Black and that the prejudice one experiences correlates with one's skin tone. Under this framework, lighter-skinned, mixed-race individuals like Harris purportedly face fewer challenges than their darker-skinned counterparts, such as Congresswoman Cori Bush. But is this view valid? Historical figures like Thurgood Marshall, a light-skinned man who was the first Black Supreme Court Justice, undoubtedly faced immense challenges, arguably more so than Clarence Thomas, who is darker-skinned.

Afro-pessimism, with its focus on race as an ontological condition, often obscures the crucial role of class. The notion that light-skinned Black people enjoy privileges akin to those of white people due to their proximity to "whiteness" simplifies a complex reality. My good friend Bert Cooper, himself of mixed race and lighter skin, would likely contend that this narrow understanding of race, devoid of class analysis, fails to capture the nuanced "Black experience."

This discourse invites us to delve into the intersections of race, identity, and class, urging us to examine how these dynamics play out in the political arena and broader societal contexts.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

THE CHAMPAGNE ROOM 8/1/24 (audio) Aug 05, 2024

Originally we were going to play "Are You A White Ally: Kamala Edition" with Doug, but he got out of it.

EP. 622: SUBLATING THE RNC ft. Doug Lain Aug 05, 2024

Welcome to the show! Today, we have a fascinating discussion lined up with Doug Lain, the founder of Sublation Magazine, who recently embarked on a unique journey to the Republican National Convention. Known for his incisive commentary and thought-provoking analysis, Doug offers a distinctive perspective that challenges conventional narratives.

Tonight, we'll delve into Doug's experiences at the convention, exploring the atmosphere, the conversations, and the ideological currents shaping the Republican Party today. As a critical observer, Doug provides an outsider's view into the heart of a political gathering that is seen by many in left spaces in enemy territory. What was it like for Doug behind enemy lines?

We'll explore what Doug witnessed at the convention, from the rhetoric on the main stage to the dynamics in the corridors. How is the GOP positioning itself for the upcoming elections? What are the key issues and messages resonating with its base? And how does the convention reflect broader trends in American politics? Is there a GOP candidate beyond Donald Trump that can take the party back to the party of Lincoln?

Join us as we dive into Doug's insights and reflections on the Republican National Convention, shedding light on the evolving landscape of American politics and the forces driving change within the GOP. Please welcome Doug Lain to the show!

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

THE MAU MAU HOUR w/ PASCAL ROBERT: LIBERALISM vs. FASCISM ft. Daniel Tutt Aug 04, 2024

Read Daniel's Article here: https://muftah.org/2024/05/16/gaza-genocide-liberal-decadence-lifting-taboos/?fbclid=IwY2xjawEZQfxleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHcaluXIKhS7k-jxnJbRFfSyz2qmVdqAvHJZFxHgb0v_JpihAIAvTtMbXiQ_aem_4kohcmuLouQbS4B27WIawg Pascal and Daniel discuss liberalism and fascism Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 621: WHY IS JAVIER MILEI SEEN AS THE SAVIOR OF ARGENTINA? ft. ARTURO DESIMONE Aug 02, 2024

Read Arturo's article in Counterpunch here: https://www.counterpunch.org/2024/07/12/milei-as-the-argentine-messiah-after-the-failure-of-the-intellectuals/?fbclid=IwY2xjawEZQA9leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHYI_v_6Qh5mHgZLzhSa8tbBb2wJJMKxn6nCWY3BnKeOnowxivnkDYvN3yQ_aem_skJCh1bKvrEVvKK6vQJghQ Is the rise of Argentina's president due to the failure of left intellectuals? We'll discuss. Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 620: TIR CALL IN SHOW Jul 31, 2024

We did the unthinkable and opened the phone lines to the public..

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE ft. BEN BURGIS Ep. 55: DAVID HARVEY'S ATTACK ON ANALYTICAL MARXISM IS WRONG Jul 30, 2024

Stefan and Ben return to the well of Analytical Marxism to see if David Harvey's critique of it is any good https://substack.com/home/post/p-146382095 Sub to Ben's substack here https://substack.com/@benburgis Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: Skateboard Jousting and Gymkata: The Wild World of 80s Sports Movies Jul 28, 2024

In this episode, Jason and Mac take a nostalgic dive into the outlandish world of 1980s sports movies. From the unforgettable "Gymkata," where gymnastics meets martial arts, to "American Anthem," the story of a gymnast from the wrong side of the tracks, the hosts break down the bizarre plots and memorable scenes that defined a generation.

They also explore the legendary skateboarding movie "Thrashin'" featuring a young Josh Brolin, and discuss the iconic yet ridiculous skateboard jousting scene. Along the way, they touch on the cultural impact of these films and their place in sports history.

Tune in for a rollercoaster of laughs, wild movie clips, and a deep dive into the sports films that could only come from the neon glow of the 80s.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined,

BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

POP LIFE EP. 30: WAS 1986 THE GREATEST YEAR FOR THRASH METAL? ft. Chris Kontos Jul 26, 2024

Welcome to today's episode, where we dive into the explosive year of 1986—a year many consider the greatest in the history of thrash metal. We'll explore the rise of "The Big 4 of Thrash," the decline of punk (as well as hardcore starting to morph into crossover) as the dominant subgenre for disaffected youth, and how metal, especially thrash metal, began to roar into the mainstream. This was a year when Metallica gained significant exposure by touring with Ozzy Osbourne, and just a year after Motley Crue catapulted into the record-selling stratosphere. The "New Wave of British Heavy Metal" had established itself, transitioning from the "new" phenomenon to a major force in the arena circuit in the U.S. and beyond.

### Was 1986 the Greatest Year of Thrash Metal?

#### The Rise of "The Big 4 of Thrash"

**Metallica:**

- 1986 saw the release of Metallica's seminal album *Master of Puppets*, which is often hailed as one of the greatest metal albums of all time. The album's complex compositions, aggressive sound, and critical lyrics elevated thrash metal to new artistic heights. How did *Master of Puppets* influence the thrash metal genre and its acceptance in the mainstream?

- Metallica's tour with Ozzy Osbourne in 1986 was a pivotal moment for the band, exposing them to a broader audience. How did this tour help Metallica and thrash metal gain mainstream recognition?

**Megadeth:**

- Megadeth released their influential album *Peace Sells... but Who's Buying?* in 1986. The album's politically charged lyrics and technical prowess set it apart. How did Megadeth contribute to the evolution of thrash metal with this release?

- Discuss the impact of Dave Mustaine's previous association with Metallica and how it shaped Megadeth's sound and rivalry with Metallica.

**Slayer:**

- Slayer's *Reign in Blood* also debuted in 1986, known for its brutal speed, intensity, and dark themes. Produced by Rick Rubin, the album pushed the boundaries of thrash metal. What was the significance of *Reign in Blood* in establishing Slayer's reputation in the metal community?

- How did the album's controversial themes and aggressive style influence the thrash metal genre?

**Anthrax:**

- Anthrax released *Spreading the Disease* in late 1985 and followed it up with *Among the Living* in early 1987. Although slightly outside of 1986, these albums were critical in shaping their influence in the thrash scene. What role did Anthrax play in the diversification and popularization of thrash metal?

#### The Decline of Punk as a Dominant Subgenre

**Punk's Waning Influence:**

- By 1986, punk's initial wave had largely dissipated, giving way to more diverse subgenres and a shift in youth culture. How did the punk movement's decline create a space for thrash metal to rise?

- Discuss how the ethos of punk—its DIY spirit and rebellious attitude—continued to influence thrash metal bands, even as punk's mainstream presence waned.

**Anarchy vs. Apathy:**

- Punk had often been associated with anarchy and a rejection of societal norms, but by the mid-1980s, some elements of the punk scene had turned towards apathy and malaise. How did this shift affect punk's relevance to youth culture?

- Compare and contrast how thrash metal's more structured rebellion and complex musicianship offered a new outlet for disaffected youth.

#### Thrash Metal's Mainstream Breakthrough

**Metallica and Ozzy Osbourne Tour:**

- Metallica's tour with Ozzy Osbourne in 1986 was a significant boost for the band. How did Ozzy's endorsement and the exposure from the tour help solidify thrash metal's presence in the mainstream?

- Discuss the broader impact of established metal acts like Ozzy Osbourne and Iron Maiden embracing and supporting the thrash metal movement.

**Motley Crue's Success:**

- Motley Crue's rise to fame after opening for Ozzy Osbourne in 1985 set a precedent for other metal bands. How did this success pave the way for thrash metal bands to achieve similar mainstream breakthroughs?

- In what ways did the success of glam metal acts like Motley Crue contrast with the rise of thrash metal, and how did these two subgenres coexist in the mid-1980s?

#### The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM)

**Cementing the Legacy:**

- By 1986, the "New Wave of British Heavy Metal" (NWOBHM) had firmly established itself. Bands like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Def Leppard were now major arena acts. How did NWOBHM influence the development of thrash metal?

- Discuss the transition of NWOBHM bands from new and emerging acts to established, influential forces in the global metal scene.

**Cross-Pollination of Genres:**

- How did the NWOBHM's success in the early 1980s pave the way for the thrash metal bands of the mid-1980s?

- In what ways did NWOBHM and thrash metal bands influence each other musically and culturally?

### Conclusion

1986 was indeed a landmark year for thrash metal, marked by iconic releases from "The Big 4" and significant mainstream breakthroughs. This year saw the decline of punk's dominance, as thrash metal emerged as the new voice of disaffected youth, blending punk's rebellious spirit with metal's technical prowess. As the "New Wave of British Heavy Metal" transitioned into established arena acts, thrash metal began to carve out its own place in the mainstream, setting the stage for its enduring influence on the music landscape.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

THE CHAMPAGNE ROOM 7/23/24 (AUDIO) Jul 25, 2024

We continue the conversation a bit from the 1st hour and then introduce Varn to the Penus (yep, that's spelled correctly, you'll see..)Dr. Alexxys Tylor. Then, things get a bit serious as we talk about what the real situation is on the ground for Americans beyond the sham spectacle that is this current election.

EP. 619: I'M WITH HER? (part 2) Jul 25, 2024

Looks like the talking heads in the media have gotten their wish, and Kamala Harris is the Democratic nominee to go against Trump in the fight to preserve democracy from the outstretched arms of the pro-fascistic Donald Trump. This vivid narrative is the one that will be echoed until early November when Americans will race to the polls in the world's most important popularity contest. The irony is, the nominees are far from the most popular kids on campus.

Many people in left media, while constantly calling for Biden to step aside due to his evident physical decline showcased in the first presidential debate, are also not so sanguine on the nomination of Harris as Biden's replacement. They cite her poor showing in the 2019 presidential election when she was part of a crowded field of Democrats positioned to stop the populism and excitement of the Bernie movement. Harris didn't last long in that race, but she presents a different challenge for Trump. He won't be able to berate Harris as he did Hillary Clinton, a woman who, while in her role as First Lady, was a despised figure by many. Trump's attacks on Harris will come off as virulent racist, which, while rallying the more fringe elements of his base, will also galvanize the more liberal elements of the electorate who were previously checked out of the race to see two octogenarians.

As we move closer to the election, the dynamics between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will continue to evolve. The narratives, strategies, and voter responses will shape the outcome of this highly consequential election. Stay tuned as we keep you updated and provide deeper insights into this historic race.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 618: I'M WITH HER? (part 1) Jul 25, 2024

Looks like the talking heads in the media have gotten their wish, and Kamala Harris is the Democratic nominee to go against Trump in the fight to preserve democracy from the outstretched arms of the pro-fascistic Donald Trump. This vivid narrative is the one that will be echoed until early November when Americans will race to the polls in the world's most important popularity contest. The irony is, the nominees are far from the most popular kids on campus.

Many people in left media, while constantly calling for Biden to step aside due to his evident physical decline showcased in the first presidential debate, are also not so sanguine on the nomination of Harris as Biden's replacement. They cite her poor showing in the 2019 presidential election when she was part of a crowded field of Democrats positioned to stop the populism and excitement of the Bernie movement. Harris didn't last long in that race, but she presents a different challenge for Trump. He won't be able to berate Harris as he did Hillary Clinton, a woman who, while in her role as First Lady, was a despised figure by many. Trump's attacks on Harris will come off as virulent racist, which, while rallying the more fringe elements of his base, will also galvanize the more liberal elements of the electorate who were previously checked out of the race to see two octogenarians.

As we move closer to the election, the dynamics between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will continue to evolve. The narratives, strategies, and voter responses will shape the outcome of this highly consequential election. Stay tuned as we keep you updated and provide deeper insights into this historic race.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

POP LIFE Ep. 29: WAS 1982 THE GREATEST YEAR OF MUSIC? Jul 24, 2024

Welcome to today's episode, where we journey back to the year 1982—a pivotal year in music history. This was a time when genres were in flux, new sounds were emerging, and the music industry was undergoing significant transformations. We'll explore the coming end of disco, the rise of heavy metal and hip hop, and some fascinating developments in Japanese music. We'll also examine the political climate of the time, the impact of MTV and music videos, and the exclusion of artists of color from this new visual medium.

### The Music of 1982

**The Decline of Disco:**

By 1982, the disco craze that had dominated the late 1970s was waning. The backlash against disco, epitomized by events like the infamous Disco Demolition Night in 1979, had taken its toll. While disco's influence lingered in pop and dance music, it was clear that the genre's heyday was over. Artists who had ridden the disco wave began to either evolve their sound or fade from the spotlight.

**The Rise of Heavy Metal:**

Heavy metal was on the ascent, with bands like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Ozzy Osbourne leading the charge. The genre's aggressive sound and rebellious spirit resonated with a generation looking for something more intense than what mainstream rock offered. Metal's rise was part of a broader movement towards harder, more complex music that also included punk and hard rock.

**The Emergence of Hip Hop:**

Hip hop was also beginning to gain traction. While still primarily an underground movement, 1982 saw the release of seminal tracks that would lay the groundwork for the genre's explosion in the mid-1980s. Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five's "The Message" was a groundbreaking track that highlighted the social issues facing inner-city communities, proving that hip hop was a powerful new voice in music.

**Innovative Japanese Music:**

In Japan, the music scene was vibrant and innovative. Artists like Yellow Magic Orchestra were blending electronic music with pop, creating sounds that were ahead of their time. Meanwhile, city pop, a genre that combined jazz, funk, and R&B, was becoming popular. Japanese musicians were not only pushing the boundaries of traditional genres but also influencing global music trends.

### Political Climate of 1982

The early 1980s were marked by significant political and social changes. In the United States, President Ronald Reagan's administration was characterized by conservative policies, economic changes, and a strong stance against the Soviet Union. The Cold War was still a dominant force in global politics, affecting cultural and artistic expressions around the world. Economic policies were shifting towards deregulation and tax cuts, which had mixed impacts on different segments of society.

In the UK, Margaret Thatcher's government was implementing neoliberal economic policies, leading to significant social and economic changes. These policies sparked resistance and protest from various groups, including labor unions and youth movements, which were often reflected in the music of the time.

### The Rise of MTV and Music Videos

**MTV's Impact:**

MTV launched in August 1981, revolutionizing the music industry by making music videos a crucial part of an artist's success. The visual aspect of music became as important as the sound, changing how artists promoted their music and connected with fans. Videos like Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" and Duran Duran's "Hungry Like the Wolf" became iconic, setting new standards for production and creativity.

**Exclusion of Artists of Color:**

However, MTV faced criticism for its lack of diversity. Early on, the network primarily featured white rock artists, excluding many artists of color, particularly in genres like R&B and hip hop. This exclusion was symptomatic of broader racial biases in the music industry. It wasn't until Michael Jackson's breakthrough that MTV began to more regularly feature black artists, a shift largely driven by the massive popularity and undeniable talent of Jackson himself.

### Conclusion

1982 was a transformative year in music, marked by the decline of disco, the rise of heavy metal and hip hop, and innovative contributions from Japanese artists. The political climate of the time influenced these musical shifts, while the advent of MTV changed the way music was consumed and promoted, albeit with significant racial biases that needed addressing. As we look back, we can see how these developments laid the groundwork for the diverse and dynamic music landscape we enjoy today.

Link to the 1982 playlist. It might the best, y'all decide: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/74fNzg8UUNOYHPtxntkXO5... Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE ft. BEN BURGIS Ep. 54: WHY YOU SHOULDN'T TRY TO KILL THE PRESIDENT Jul 23, 2024

Ben and Stefan discuss the merits or lack therefore of political violence https://benburgis.substack.com/p/on-political-violence Sub to Ben's substack https://benburgis.substack.com/ Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 617: LIVE FROM THE UNDERGROUND: THE RISE OF COLLEGE RADIO ft. Katherine Rye Jewell Jul 22, 2024

Get Katherine's book here: https://uncpress.org/book/9781469677255/live-from-the-underground/

Welcome to our show! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with professor and author Katherine Rye Jewell about her fascinating new book, "Live from the Underground," which explores the rise of college radio. Unlike typical homages to white indie rock and obscure fringe artists, Jewell provides a materialist historiography that examines how college radio helped shape the music landscape.

In "Live From the Underground," Jewell writes:

> "College radio offered an ideal venue for these attitudes. It could never overtake commercial radio, remaining scarce and subaltern. Pop culture rejects sought sanctuary at these stations by the 1990s. Protected by institutional homes and noncommercial licenses, these stations operated on the public’s airwaves for educational purposes. Such missions offered useful cover for DJs seeking the weird, the unheard, or underappreciated. Such music might never reach, or actively defy, mainstream audiences. Many participants were content with remaining on the outside, in the underground. Stations developed devoted listener bases of engaged music fans and lured college students who didn’t quite fit in on campus. Community DJs turned to college radio, too, seeking purchase on the nation’s airwaves—or at least however far the usually low-wattage collegiate signal reached.

> By the early 1990s, college radio had earned a national identity that evoked generational dissatisfaction with pop culture even as it remained deeply conversant with it. These signals did offer alternative voices to willing audiences. Yet college radio’s collective status as an alternative, or counter-hegemonic, medium is debatable. Virtually all elements of the college radio model—educational mission, anti commercialism, funding mechanisms, organizational structures, professional practices, content, or audience relationships—were contested in one way or another after the 1970s. Some stations explored the furthest fringes of musical expression, but these were missions shaped historically and through conflict. Numerous DJs sought careers in the news, music, and media industries. Not all stations devoted programming to music lacking broad commercial appeal, but these signals and their participants also shaped the nation’s landscape of collegiate radio. College radio’s status as an alternative medium is thus tenuous, even if in aggregate or individually these stations possessed disruptive potential."

Our guest today, Katherine Rye Jewell, is a historian and a professor at Fitchburg State University. Her work delves into the intersection of business, politics, and culture. Please give a big TIR round of applause for Katherine Rye Jewell!

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: THE RISE OF WOMEN'S SPORTS AND THE NEW BLACK NATIONAL ANTHEM Jul 21, 2024

Jason and Mac discuss the rise of popularity in women's athletics, and the possible need for a new Black national anthem. Enjoy.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

The Champagne Room 7/16/24 Jul 18, 2024

Kuba talks more project 2025, the CRÜE watches McDonalds fight videos.

EP. 616: THE ICONIC DONALD TRUMP? Jul 18, 2024

Welcome to today's episode, where we dive into the political theater and imagery that shapes our current landscape. The recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump has, unsurprisingly, become a galvanizing moment for his fervent fanbase—notice I say fanbase, not the Republican Party. The zealous MAGA crowd envisions Trump as he envisions himself, almost as if a 50-year career in the pop culture spotlight has induced a group hypnosis on millions. Image has always been central to Trump’s persona, evolving from a billionaire playboy to a no-nonsense reality TV boss, and now, to his final form as an anti-elite warrior for the working class.

From the 80s and 90s as a gregarious hotel magnate to his stint as a pro wrestling hall-of-famer and television character, Trump's presence on "The Apprentice" aired on NBC for 13 years before he transitioned from Hollywood to the White House. One thing has remained constant: Trump has always stayed in character, often to his professional detriment.

His latest persona as a defiant "Washington outsider" was immortalized this past week with an iconic image: a fist raised in the air, shouting "fight" to his supporters. This moment wasn't deep faked or photoshopped; it was a genuine snapshot emblematic of our current epoch. Images tell the story, and we fill in the blanks with our imaginations or lived experiences—whatever helps us sleep at night.

In contrast, Joe Biden continues to be scrutinized publicly for signs of cognitive decline. Both men represent the oldest presidential race to date, yet Biden has garnered bipartisan media attention for his often stammering speeches, raising questions about his candidacy. This scenario is reminiscent of another television president, Ronald Reagan, who also stumbled during debates and forgot critical issues like the Iran-Contra affair, yet won his second term by a landslide. Why don't we remember Reagan as the same doddering old man that we see in Biden? Does any of this matter when electoral politics often resemble team sports, where loyalty to the team trumps individual performance?

Will Donald Trump be able to leverage this assassination attempt into a second presidential victory, or is this simply another marketing opportunity for a shallow huckster who sees everything, even an attempt on his life, as a money-making venture?

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 615: DIGITAL CAPITALISM AND NOSTALGIA ft. MIKE WATSON Jul 17, 2024

Get Mike's latest book here: https://www.revolpress.com/hungry-ghosts-in-the-machine Hungry Ghosts in the Machine will discuss the ways in which social and other digital media utilize nostalgia to heighten anxiety, depression and alienation then offer fleeting cures that ultimately lead to a cycle of longing and, at most, only temporary satiation. It will finally be stated that wellbeing and spiritual practice freed of the compulsive aspect of social media use might form a useful role in a wider movement aimed at fostering healthy communities. Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE ft. BEN BURGIS EP. 53: VENMO AND THE COMMODIFICATION OF RELATIONSHIPS Jul 16, 2024

Stefan and Ben discuss why G.A. Cohen would have hated Venmo and the differences between a Socialist and a Capitalist Camping trip https://benburgis.substack.com/.../why-ga-cohen-would... Sub to Ben's Substack here https://benburgis.substack.com/.../why-ga-cohen-would... Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

EP. 614: NOTHING LASTS FOREVER: RUSSIAN PUNKS IN GEORGIA ft. ALEXANDER HERBERT Jul 15, 2024

Welcome to our show, where today we have the pleasure of bringing back a returning guest who has become more than just a collaborator; he's a friend. Alexander Herbert, renowned for his insightful research on horror films in the Soviet Union and Soviet punk culture, is with us once again. Over the years, Alex and I have grown close, and he even visited me here in Mexico. Now, we're excited to be working together on a book project.

Today, we're diving into Alex's latest venture—a significant leap into documentary filmmaking. After the pandemic restrictions were lifted a few years ago, Alex traveled back to Tbilisi, Georgia, to document a unique and poignant migration story. His focus is on the young Russian punks who fled their homeland to avoid participating in the war with Ukraine.

Instead of creating a simple narrative about these punks as fish out of water in a new land, Alex explores the broader implications of this migration on the Georgian economy and society. His documentary examines how the influx of Russians is influencing the local scene and economy in Tbilisi. How do Georgians feel about this wave of new residents, and is there a sense of gentrification occurring within their communities? Moreover, can punk music, with its rebellious spirit and message of unity, serve as a bridge between these disparate groups?

We’re thrilled to have Alex here today to talk about his documentary, share insights from his research, and give us a sneak peek at his film. Let's welcome Alexander Herbert to discuss this fascinating and timely project.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: CLAM SLAMS, NIL, MIKE GUNDY, and JUSTICE vs VENGEANCE Jul 14, 2024

Welcome to our podcast, where today we delve into a heated topic that's currently stirring the sports world: the controversy surrounding Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy's handling of star running back Ollie Gordon's recent DUI arrest. This issue has sparked significant debate among sports journalists, pundits, and fans alike. Gordon, who blew a .10—above Oklahoma's legal limit of .08—was not suspended by Gundy, who instead defended his decision in a way that has raised many eyebrows.

### The Controversy

Mike Gundy's approach to Gordon's DUI has been criticized for being too lenient. Gundy argued that Gordon's weight of around 215 pounds meant that a blood alcohol level of .10 was equivalent to consuming 3-4 beers, and he admitted to having driven after drinking that amount himself. He did not suspend Gordon, suggesting instead that facing the media in a public apology would be a more effective form of punishment than missing football games. Gundy's comments also seemed to indirectly criticize the NCAA's new Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policy, suggesting that the influx of money to players should come with increased accountability.

### The Larger Issue

This situation brings up several important questions about justice, punishment, and the impact of money in college sports:

**Justice vs. Vengeance:** There's a fine line between justice and vengeance. In the context of college sports, what constitutes a fair and just punishment for athletes who break the law? Is suspending a player for multiple games the right approach, or are there more effective ways to handle such situations?

**Impact of NIL:** Gundy’s comments highlight a growing concern among coaches and administrators about the influence of money on college athletes’ behavior. Does the new NIL policy complicate the disciplinary process for college athletes? Are players more likely to disregard rules because they feel financially empowered?

**Moralizing vs. Justice:** Are we more concerned with moralizing athletes’ behavior than we are with actual justice? In this case, is the outrage directed more at Gundy’s perceived leniency or at the need to uphold a standard of behavior?

**Player Mobility:** If Gordon were suspended, would he consider transferring to escape the consequences and stigma of his DUI? How does the potential for transferring impact the way coaches discipline their players?

### Perspectives

**Supporters of Gundy’s Decision:** Some may argue that Gundy’s approach, which focuses on public accountability rather than game suspension, is a more modern and constructive form of punishment. It forces the player to confront the consequences of their actions directly and publicly.

**Critics of Gundy’s Decision:** Others believe that failing to suspend Gordon sends the wrong message about the seriousness of DUI offenses. They argue that athletes should be held to high standards of conduct, and that suspensions serve as an important deterrent.

**Impact on Team Dynamics:** How does a coach’s disciplinary decision affect team dynamics and the overall morale of the team? Is there a risk of creating a double standard or fostering resentment among players?

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

Ep. 613: IS THE RACIAL RECKONING OVER? ft. TOURÉ F. REED AND CEDRIC the D.E.I. GUY Jul 11, 2024

It seems like a lifetime ago that Ta’Nehisi Coates was making his case for reparations, Ibrahim X. Kendi was teaching America how to be anti racist and a group of women from the West Coast launched a hashtag that for a time started a movement in Black Lives Matter. This was the impetus of the racial reckoning that Kendi and others called a 3rd Reconstruction for Black Americans.

In 2014, Coates' essay in The Atlantic reignited a more serious conversation around reparations for African Americans, sparking a broader dialogue on the idea of systemic racism, historical injustices of redlining in housing and the need for meaningful change. That change would have to be redressed financially, because in capitalism, we can only solve the crisis of capitalism with more capitalism.

This moment is preceded with the early rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, which emerged in response to the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the killing of Trayvon Martin. The movement brought issues of police brutality and racial inequality and in some cases mass incarceration to the forefront of public consciousness, leading to widespread protests and calls for justice.

Over the next several years, the Black political vision became increasingly centered on identity politics, emphasizing the importance of representation and recognition in addressing racial disparities. This focus, however, gradually evolved, as it always does, into a form of patronage politics, where symbolic victories often took precedence over substantive policy changes. Corporate and philanthropic foundations played a significant role in shaping the agenda, funding initiatives that prioritized diversity and inclusion over federally backed plans to tackle deeper systemic issues.

By the time of the George Floyd uprisings in 2020, it seemed as though a transformative moment had arrived. The protests were unprecedented in their scale and intensity, with millions demanding an end to police violence and systemic racism. Yet, despite the outpouring of activism and foundation money and the apparent momentum for change, the underlying structures of power remained largely unchallenged.

Fast forward to today, and we are witnessing a troubling return to "tough on crime" policies reminiscent of the 1990s. Fear of crime and visible homelessness have fueled public anxiety, prompting political leaders in major metropolitan cities like San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles to revert to strategies that prioritize law and order over social justice. This shift highlights the limitations of a decade-long racial reckoning that, while significant, ultimately fell short of achieving the transformative change many had hoped for.

As we examine this period, we must ask ourselves: What were the successes and failures of this era of racial reckoning? How did identity politics shape the movement, and what role did foundations play in guiding its direction? Most importantly, how can we learn from this history to build a more effective and lasting movement for racial justice in the future?

Join us as we delve into these questions and more, exploring the complex legacy of the past decade's racial reckoning and its implications for the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in America.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

POP LIFE EP. 28: The Alex Cox Interview Jul 10, 2024

Today, J.G. have the distinct pleasure of interviewing a true icon of independent cinema, writer and director Alex Cox. Known for his distinctive style and rebellious spirit, Alex Cox has made a significant mark on the film industry with his unique vision and uncompromising approach to storytelling.

Alex Cox first burst onto the scene in the mid-1980s with his cult classic (that we watched here on TIR movie night most recently) "Repo Man," a film that masterfully blends punk rock, science fiction and dark comedy. He followed this with the critically acclaimed "Sid and Nancy," a gritty and poignant portrayal of the tumultuous relationship between Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen. Throughout his career, Cox has consistently challenged conventional filmmaking norms, producing a body of work that is both provocative and thought-provoking.

Today we will not only be discussing Alex’s past works, but his latest vision, “My Last Movie”. My "last movie" is a Western version of Nicolai Gogol's "Dead Souls' '. According to Alex, Dead Souls, “..is a great book, full of irony, mystery and meaning.” Alex is once again bypassing Hollywood by starting a crowdfunding campaign. Wherever you are listening to or watching there is a link in the description to contribute.

Join us as we sit down with Alex Cox, a maverick filmmaker whose work has left an indelible impact on the world of cinema. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his films, this conversation promises to be a fascinating journey into the mind of one of the most original voices in contemporary filmmaking.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

CLR JAMES AND THE STRUGGLE FOR SOCIALISM IN AMERICA LIVE SHOW (audio) ft. Daniel Tutt, Spencer Leonard, C.Derick Varn, Billy Buntin Jul 08, 2024

Join us for an insightful discussion on the legacy of CLR James and the ongoing struggle for socialism in America. This livestream event will delve into the ideas and activism of this influential thinker and explore their relevance in today's political landscape. Don't miss out on this opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals and deepen your understanding of socialism in America. Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

BEYOND THE RED ZONE: NBA FREE AGENCY AND MAC LEARNS ABOUT JAM CITY Jul 07, 2024

Jason and Mac discuss the failure of the Clippers and many other franchises that have never won championships, then Jason shows Mac what "Jam City" is.

Enjoy.

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH! Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents? Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!) THANKS Y'ALL YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/ Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

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