Cities are becoming increasingly unliveable for most people. Costs are rising but incomes are not. Sky-high rents, evictions, homelessness, and substandard housing are common realities for urban dwellers across the planet. There is a global housing crisis. How did this basic human right get so lost? Who is pushing people out of their homes and cities, and what’s being done to pushback? On the heels of the release of the award-winning documentary, PUSH, filmmaker, Fredrik Gertten and Leilani Farha, the former UN Special Rapporteur on the right to housing, have reconvened. Join the filmmaker and the advocate as they reflect on their experiences making PUSH and exchange ideas and stories about the film's central issue: the financialization of housing and its fall-out. For more about PUSH and to view it: www.pushthefilm.com For more about Fredrik Gertten and his other films: www.wgfilm.comFor more about Leilani Farha in her new role, Global Director of The Shift: www.maketheshift.org
Fredrik and Leilani dive into Georgia's unprecedented protest movement with Gota Chanturia, education policy specialist and member of the Movement for Social Democracy. For more than 180 days, Georgians have been on the streets opposing their government's dramatic shift away from European integration and toward Russian influence.Gota explains how the parliamentary elections of October 2024 were manipulated and how the introduction of the so-called "Russian law" targeting civil society organizations sparked nationwide outrage. The conversation explores the deep connections between democratic backsliding and social inequality in a country where 700,000 people live in extreme poverty while oligarchic interests dominate politics.This episode offers rare insight into a crucial resistance movement happening at the intersection of Europe and Russia, where citizens are fighting not just for democracy but for a vision of society that addresses profound social and economic challenges. Gota shares how international solidarity matters and what lessons Georgia's struggle holds for democratic movements worldwide facing similar authoritarian threats.Also check out this episode mentioned during the talk:Mass Protests and the Missing Revolution - a conversation with author Vincent BevinsSupport the show
This week, we explore how Mexico City is challenging the global housing crisis through innovative female leadership. While 26,000 Airbnb listings have transformed the city's housing landscape, primarily benefiting large investors rather than residents, women at the helm of Mexico's government are implementing bold solutions. Their vision includes building one million new homes and constitutional reforms to expand affordable rental options for working-class and young people.Our guest, Maria Silvia Emmanuelli, Coordinator for Habitat International Coalition Latin America and advisor to the housing ministry, discusses Mexico City's groundbreaking regulation of short-term rentals and plans for 100 "utopias" – public spaces centered on care and social harmony.Fredrik, Leilani, and Maria Silvia examine how this rare alignment between city and federal government is enabling creative approaches that could inspire new solutions to housing challenges worldwide.Support the show
In this week's episode, Fredrik and Leilani take center stage without guests to candidly explore how we might find connection and hope in challenging times. They reflect on the state of democracy, human rights, and social movements, sharing their personal struggles with making sense of current events and finding ways to make meaningful change in complicated times. Books mentioned in this episode:"The World After Gaza" by Pankaj Mishra"One Day Everyone Will Always Have Been Against This" by Omar El AkkadSupport Pushback Talks on PatreonConnect with us on social media: @pushbacktalks.bsky.socialSupport the show
What happens when international law exists on paper but not in practice? This week, Fredrik Gertten and Leilani Farha speak with Allegra Pacheco, an American human rights lawyer who has dedicated her career to protecting vulnerable Palestinian communities in the West Bank. As Chief of Party for the West Bank Protection Consortium, Allegra sees the realities of Area C in the West Bank, where over 600,000 Israeli settlers live in communities deemed illegal under international law while Palestinians face severe restrictions on movement, construction, and daily life.Together with Fredrik and Leilani, Allegra discusses what it will take to protect the occupied Palestinian territories. How might private security forces protect Palestinian communities? What leverage does the European Union actually possess? And why has the international community failed to enforce its own legal rulings? As the opportunity to protect a future for Palestine seems to dwindle, Allegra's perspective challenges us to think critically about what it will take to end one of the world's most protracted conflicts, and what it means to have hope in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.Support the show
This week, we dive deep into the fracturing landscape of global politics with Peter S. Goodman, New York Times Global Economic Correspondent and author.What happens when the rules of global cooperation suddenly seem disposable? When nationalist ambitions threaten to unravel decades of multilateral understanding?Peter Goodman returns to unpack the complex dynamics of trade wars, economic manipulation, and the persistent hope for collective resistance. From the erosion of international institutions to the rise of unilateral power plays, his conversation with Fredrik & Leilani explores how global power dynamics are being dramatically rewritten.About Peter S. GoodmanPeter S. Goodman is the global economic correspondent for The New York Times and author of How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain Crisis. His work provides critical insights into the intersection of economics, politics, and human resilience.Purchase Peter's Book / Follow PeterSupport the show
Fredrik and Leilani sit down with Sam Freeman (Head of Research and Advocacy at The Shift) and Dominika Leitane (Legal Officer at Opportunity Green) who reveal how they took the UK government to the United Nations—and won!Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the UN review process as Sam and Dominika break down exactly how they navigated this powerful accountability tool to tackle the twin crises of housing injustice and climate emergency. They share their journey from initial submission to celebration when the UN Committee adopted their recommendations.This eye-opening conversation pulls back the curtain on international law in action, showing how everyday people armed with determination and strategy can use these tools to hold governments accountable. Sam and Dominika offer practical insights into how these seemingly complex international mechanisms can become game-changing tools for creating a more just and sustainable world.Support the show
What happens when Elon Musk's anti-union Tesla meets Sweden's powerful labor movement? Since October 2023, Swedish workers have maintained the country's longest strike in a century, with solidarity spreading across Nordic countries. In this episode, Fredrik and Leilani speak with German Bender, chief analyst at Arena think tank and Harvard Labor researcher, about how this historic standoff represents a clash between Silicon Valley's corporate libertarianism and the Nordic model of collective bargaining. Learn why dockworkers, postal workers, and even Norway's sovereign wealth fund have joined the resistance – and what this conflict means for worker rights globally.Support the show
Canadian Member of Parliament Leah Gazan (New Democratic Party, Manitoba) joins Fredrik and Leilani to explore how nations and individuals can stand firm against authoritarianism without succumbing to despair. Drawing from her family's experience with genocide across two continents, Gazan offers insights into transforming collective anxiety into meaningful action and leadership. Leah reminds us that in times of great challenge, we have a choice: to give in to pessimism or to use this moment to advance human rights and dignity. A timely discussion about finding courage in community and remembering that history's darkest hours have often preceded its most profound transformations.Learn more about Leah's work here.Support the show
Finland has achieved what many countries still deem impossible: significantly reducing long-term homelessness through a Housing First model. Finland's model, which has reduced homelessness by 80% since 2008, doesn't just provide housing – it prevents homelessness through strategic urban planning, integrated support services, and proactive intervention.Join Fredrik and Leilani as they speak with Juha Kahila, Head of International Affairs at Y-Säätiö (Y-Foundation), about Finland's comprehensive approach to ending homelessness. The three discuss how homelessness isn't inevitable, but rather a result of policy choices – and how this pragmatic model could offer a blueprint for ending homelessness worldwide.Support the show
In our first episode of the new year, Leilani and Kirsten sit down with former Victoria Supreme Court Justice Kevin Bell to examine Australia's housing challenges and their global implications. Drawing on his 15 years on Victoria's highest court and his book "Housing: The Great Australian Right," Bell explores the realities of intergenerational housing access and its broader impacts on society. From young families navigating the market to older women facing housing insecurity, he illustrates how housing systems reflect our collective values—and how they can be reshaped. As both a former judge and lifelong advocate, Bell presents a practical case for change through human rights legislation. His conversation with Leilani and Kirsten weaves together climate considerations, gender equity, and housing affordability, offering a look back at the history of housing in Australia, and a clear vision for building housing systems that work for everyone. You can find Kevin's book, The Great Australian Right, here.Support the show
What if public housing could be a solution, not a symptom of urban inequality? Singapore offers an alternative to the traditional narrative of state-sponsored housing. In this episode, Fredrik, Leilani, and National University of Singapore Professor Kwan Ok Lee unpack an extraordinary housing system that defies global expectations. By transforming apartments into instruments of social cohesion, Singapore has created a model that challenges everything we know about urban living, community development, and civic belonging. Learn how one city-state turned housing into a strategic national asset that integrates, empowers, and connects its diverse population.Learn more about Kwan Ok Lee's work as Associate Professor and Dean's Chair at the Business School and Deputy Head in the NUS Department of Real Estate.Support the show
Cities are the frontline of our global challenges – from climate change to housing crises. In this powerful episode of Pushback Talks, Deputy Mayor of Paris Christophe Najdovski reveals how progressive urban leadership can transform cities into resilient, livable ecosystems. From challenging powerful car lobbies to reimagining urban spaces, Najdovski and Mayor Anne Hidalgo are pioneering a radical approach that proves environmental action and social justice can go hand in hand. Hear how Paris is fighting populism, creating climate-adaptive infrastructure, and offering a blueprint for urban transformation that could reshape cities worldwide. As the global urban population continues to grow, this conversation offers a beacon of hope and practical inspiration for building the cities of our future.Support the show
In Nigeria's largest city, a powerful story is unfolding - one that shines a light on the urgent struggle for housing rights and urban resilience. In this episode, we sit down with the creative team behind the new film "The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos," which dramatizes the real-life tragedy of the Otodo Gbame informal settlement.Between November 2016 and April 2017, over 30,000 residents of this waterfront community were violently evicted, with nine drowning and two shot in the process. Our guests - lead actor Temi Ami-Williams, director/producer Bisola Akinmuyiwa, and director Temi Ogungbamila - have worked tirelessly with community members to craft a cinematic experience that demands our attention.But this is more than a movie - it's a work of resistance, part of a broader campaign led by Slum Dwellers International. For decades, they've stood alongside organized communities to challenge forced evictions and build inclusive cities.You can also support the launch of the film, or request a screening.Learn more about the film, and the work of Slum Dwellers International.Support the show
In the finale of our series on The Shift Directives, our experts examine the staggering scale and far-reaching impact of institutional investment on housing. What could we gain if housing investment and housing redevelopment complied with human rights standards? Leilani and Sam tackle thorny issues like tax advantages for REITs and the alarming trend of financializing vulnerable housing sectors such as student accommodations and long-term care homes.Leilani and Sam also preview an exciting new resource - the Investor Guidelines. Developed over the last year, these guidelines demonstrate that smart investment and housing as a human right can coexist. We offer a glimpse into this groundbreaking new tool (which is out today!) and the possibility of transforming the role of investors in the housing sector.Support the show
In this critical third installment of our series on The Shift Directives, Sam, Leilani, and Kirsten delve into the intricate dance between local, national, and international policies, exposing how disconnects in governance can leave vulnerable citizens without a roof over their heads. Leilani and Sam dissect the multi-level approach needed to effectively implement housing rights and talk about how The Shift Directives were designed to do just that.From innovative local initiatives to game-changing national policies, this episode equips listeners with a deeper understanding of how governments can—and must—work together to secure the right to housing for all.Support the show
In the second installment of this four-part special series, Pushback Talks Producer Kirsten delves deeper into The Shift Directives with Leilani & Sam.Leilani and Sam get into Directive 7 of The Shift Directives, which is all about protecting tenants and creating spaces for them to participate in the future of their communities.Together the three cut to the heart of modern housing challenges: AI-driven rent hikes, the cascading crisis of unaffordability and evictions, and the looming specter of homelessness. Leilani and Sam lay out the urgent need for robust tenant protections, advocating for a seismic shift towards transparency, meaningful participation, and the integration of human rights principles in housing policies.Read The Shift Directives and follow the series for the next four weeks.Support the show
In this first episode of a four-part special series, Pushback Talks Producer Kirsten sits down with Leilani Farha and Sam Freeman to introduce listeners to The Shift Directives; a revolutionary approach to the global housing crisis. Setting the stage for the series, this episode begins reimagining how we understand, regulate, and experience housing in the 21st century. Hear directly from the architects of this new framework as they reveal the urgent catalysts behind The Shift Directives and paint a vivid picture of how a human rights-based approach could transform housing as we know it. Follow along for the next 4 weeks and be sure to read The Shift Directives.Support the show
This week, we welcome back friend of the show Dr. Joanna Kusiak to discuss her new book, "Radically Legal" and Berlin's ongoing efforts to keep housing affordable through innovative legal approaches.We explore the often-overlooked role of emotion in the creation and interpretation of law, challenging the notion that legal systems operate purely on cold logic. Joanna reveals how the hopes, frustrations, and determination of ordinary citizens have shaped Berlin's housing policies.Listen in as Fredrik, Leilani, and Joanna discuss the perseverance required in long-term activism and how legal frameworks can be powerful tools for social change when wielded by engaged communities.Read Joanna's book, Radically Legal, for free.Support the show
It's the Season 8 premiere of Pushback Talks! Filmmaker Fredrik Gertten and Advocate Leilani Farha welcome back New York Times correspondent Peter S. Goodman to discuss his provocative new book, "How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain." Goodman, Gertten, and Farha explore the often-overlooked human consequences of our interconnected economy. The three dissect the language used to describe global experiences, examine the power dynamics of international trade, and analyze past policy decisions that prioritized profits over people.Check out How the World Ran Out of Everything and stay updated on Peter's work with the New York Times.Support the show
It's summertime in Sweden and Canada, and that means it's time for Pushback Talks - Summer Series! For the next 12 weeks, we'll revisit a few of our favorite episodes from the last season.The Filmmaker and the Advocate are taking a break, but the podcast isn't. No matter where you are - we hope you enjoy this year's Summer Series!In this episode of Pushback Talks, hosts Fredrik and Leilani delve into a fascinating intersection of global trends: digital nomadism. As the world grapples with issues like migration, touristification, gentrification, and financialization, the rise of digital nomads adds another layer of complexity to the housing landscape.With the COVID-19 pandemic shifting the nature of work, digital nomadism has surged in popularity. What was once a niche lifestyle has now become a significant global phenomenon, with millions of individuals embracing remote work and the freedom to travel.But what exactly are digital nomads, and how do they fit into the broader narrative of migration and tourism? Joining Fredrik and Leilani is author, anthropologist, and consultant Dave Cook, who brings over 8 years of research experience on remote work and its impacts.With digital nomadism on the rise, understanding its implications for international migration and local economies is more crucial than ever. Tune in as Dave, Leilani, and Fredrik unpack the complexities of digital nomadism and its far-reaching consequences on housing and society.Read more about Dave's work.Support the Show.Support the Show.
It's summertime in Sweden and Canada, and that means it's time for Pushback Talks - Summer Series! For the next 12 weeks, we'll revisit a few of our favorite episodes from the last season.The Filmmaker and the Advocate are taking a break, but the podcast isn't. No matter where you are - we hope you enjoy this year's Summer Series!In this week's episode of Pushback Talks, we delve into the intricate dynamics of historical narratives and their profound influence on contemporary events. Award-winning South African journalist, filmmaker, and writer Sylvia Vollenhoven joins Fredrik and Leilani to explore the enduring power of empathy amidst longstanding conflicts and resistance movements. Drawing parallels between past and present, the trio examines South Africa's struggle against apartheid and its recent decision to challenge Israel at the International Court of Justice. Through their conversation, we dissect the mainstream media's portrayal of such actions, highlighting the ongoing battle to control narratives and the critical role of empathy in shaping social justice movements.Sylvia's latest project, a film in development and critically acclaimed play, The Keeper of the Kumm, is based on a book of the same name. You can learn more about Sylvia, as well as the book, the play, and the film here.Support the Show.Support the Show.
It's summertime in Sweden and Canada, and that means it's time for Pushback Talks - Summer Series! For the next 12 weeks, we'll revisit a few of our favorite episodes from the last season.The Filmmaker and the Advocate are taking a break, but the podcast isn't. No matter where you are - we hope you enjoy this year's Summer Series!"From 2010 to 2020, more people participated in protests than at any other point in human history. " Yet we are not living in more just and democratic societies as a result...How did so many mass protests lead to the opposite of what they asked for?"Take a look behind the scenes of global uprisings and their unfulfilled aims as Pushback Talks welcomes acclaimed author of "If We Burn: The Mass Protest Decade and the Missing Revolution," Vincent Bevins. In his compelling conversation with Leilani and Fredrik, Bevins dissects a decade of mass protests that captivated the world and changed things in unforeseen ways. From the Arab Spring to Hong Kong's student movements, they explore the complexities and unexpected outcomes of these fervent calls for change and the media that surrounded them. Support the Show.Support the Show.
It's summertime in Sweden and Canada, and that means it's time for Pushback Talks - Summer Series! For the next 12 weeks, we'll revisit a few of our favorite episodes from the last season.The Filmmaker and the Advocate are taking a break, but the podcast isn't. No matter where you are - we hope you enjoy this year's Summer Series!This week the Filmmaker and the Advocate sit down with Rutger Bregman, esteemed historian and author of Humankind and Utopia for Realists. Join the trio as they discuss the ins an outs of societal transformation, exploring Bregman's contributions to Fredrik's film "Breaking Social." They discuss relevant questions like 'How does anger fuel social change?' and 'What defines true philanthropy?' Follow along as our hosts explore the nuanced dynamics of small groups and their transformative power in driving substantial change. Don't miss this enlightening episode that delves into the critical distinction between cynicism and anger, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the ever-evolving landscape of societal change.Support the Show.
It's summertime in Sweden and Canada, and that means it's time for Pushback Talks - Summer Series! For the next 12 weeks, we'll revisit a few of our favorite episodes from the last season. The Filmmaker and the Advocate are taking a break, but the podcast isn't. No matter where you are - we hope you enjoy this year's Summer Series!What is it that makes a worker essential? This is the question that Chris Smalls and hundreds of thousands of Amazon workers had to ask as they found themselves working long hours in unsafe conditions at the height of the pandemic, having been deemed 'essential.' But when Chris, who was responsible for training thousands of other employees and upper management, organized a protest for better work conditions he was immediately terminated and told he wasn't articulate enough to be the face of efforts to unionize. Chris responded by pushing it further, creating the Congress of Essential Workers and, eventually, the Amazon Labor Union.Chris joins Fredrik and Leilani to discuss the intense amount of work it took to create the union, the power of challenging the system as his authentic self, and proving those who underestimated him dead wrong.Support the Amazon Labor Union. You can see more about Chris's fight to create the Amazon Labor Union in Fredrik's latest film, Breaking Social. Support the Show.Support the Show.
What's it like to be the world leader of human rights at a time when it looks like they've been abandoned? Volker Türk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, sits down for an eye-opening talk about "human rights economies" that value human dignity over profits. Türk shares his bold ideas to fundamentally reshape finance, policy, and growth around protecting basic freedoms. From confronting exploitation to putting human worth first, he offers a fresh vision for pursuing justice through fair economic systems. It's an insightful discussion on pioneering ways for the human rights movement to create meaningful change.Read Volker's statements on rebuilding a foundation of hope through human rights economies.Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.In this episode of Pushback Talks, we delve into the global wave of pro-Palestinian student protests igniting campuses worldwide. After students at Columbia University treated the Gaza Solidarity Encampment on April 17th, they found themselves in a two-week standoff that inspired students around the world. In just 3 weeks, pro-Palestinian encampments had spread to nearly 140 campuses across 45 states in the US, as well as to Latin America, Australia, Japan, the Middle East, and Europe. This episode explores the resilience, unity, and relentless pursuit of justice driving these student-led actions.We hear from Fabiola Villanueva, a Columbia College undergraduate and key protest participant, sharing her firsthand experiences and the solidarity inspired by the encampment. Additionally, Helena Hägglund, a journalist and PhD candidate in media studies, offers insights from her reporting on the Middle East and North Africa and her involvement in pro-Palestinian student groups.Join us as we uncover the stories behind the headlines and discuss the broader implications of this international movement.Want to learn more? Dive into Columbia University Apartheid Divest and Helena Hägglund's impactful work.Support the Show.
This week on Pushback Talks, Fredrik and Leilani explore a bold proposition: What if we put the business of landlordism on trial?Nick Bano's latest work, "Against Landlords: How to Solve the Housing Crisis," serves as our guide. Bano, a barrister specializing in representing marginalized groups, takes us on a journey through the history of housing law in the UK, tracing its evolution from the Victorian era to the present day. He illuminates how this legal landscape has shifted, contributing to the current crisis of unaffordability and skyrocketing rents.Today, 1 in 21 people in the UK is a landlord, a staggering statistic that underscores the imbalance in our housing system. In this episode, Fredrik, Leilani, and Nick delve into the repercussions of this disparity, exploring how the profitability of housing impacts our ability to address the crisis. Together, they examine the potential solutions and reflect on how close Britain came to outlawing landlords.Support the Show.
In this episode of Pushback Talks, Leilani and Fredrik sit down with David Ireland, the Chief Executive of World Habitat, to catch up on things since they teamed up for the filming of Push.Their conversation delves into the World Habitat Awards and the inspiring projects they recognize and support, highlighting innovative solutions that are transforming lives and communities worldwide. David shares his first-hand experiences witnessing positive change through the projects the awards support and discusses the challenges and successes of his work with World Habitat. Together, the three examine how the law plays a pivotal role in the success of projects fighting for the right to housing and highlight some of the many memorable award winners. View the 2024 World Habitat Award WinnersRead more about the work of Yasmeen Lari, Pakistan's first female architectSupport the Show.
In this episode of Pushback Talks, hosts Fredrik and Leilani delve into a fascinating intersection of global trends: digital nomadism. As the world grapples with issues like migration, touristification, gentrification, and financialization, the rise of digital nomads adds another layer of complexity to the housing landscape.With the COVID-19 pandemic shifting the nature of work, digital nomadism has surged in popularity. What was once a niche lifestyle has now become a significant global phenomenon, with millions of individuals embracing remote work and the freedom to travel.But what exactly are digital nomads, and how do they fit into the broader narrative of migration and tourism? Joining Fredrik and Leilani is author, anthropologist, and consultant Dave Cook, who brings over 8 years of research experience on remote work and its impacts.With digital nomadism on the rise, understanding its implications for international migration and local economies is more crucial than ever. Tune in as Dave, Leilani, and Fredrik unpack the complexities of digital nomadism and its far-reaching consequences on housing and society.Read more about Dave's work.Support the show
This week, we turn our attention to Argentina, a nation grappling with political turmoil and economic distress. With rising polarization and economic instability, President Milei's controversial policies roll back social programs and consolidate power, exacerbating social inequalities and economic disparities. Sebastián Fest, a seasoned Argentinian journalist and political commentator, joins us to dissect the implications of Milei's Omnibus law and the country's rapid economic transformation. Together, Fredrik, Leilani, and Sebastian explore the factors behind Argentina's soaring cost of living, the toll on the middle class, and the urgent need for a more equitable future.Support the show
As the cost of living continues to rise and housing remains one of the hottest topics in the news, there's a common misconception in North America that tenants are just homeowners in waiting. Laws and incentives are written to support this idea, and it's leaving a growing generation of tenants behind in a way that is detrimental for us all. This week's guest, author and political economist Ricardo Tranjan, Ph.D., does away with this myth in his latest book, The Tenant Class. Tranjan challenges the very notion of a housing crisis, proposing an alternative perspective – a housing market functioning precisely as intended. His conversation with Fredrik and Leilani looks at what happens when advocates go on the offensive, the power of collective action, and what happens when advocates get a little aggressive.Support the show
In this week's episode of Pushback Talks, we delve into the intricate dynamics of historical narratives and their profound influence on contemporary events. Award-winning South African journalist, filmmaker, and writer Sylvia Vollenhoven joins Fredrik and Leilani to explore the enduring power of empathy amidst longstanding conflicts and resistance movements. Drawing parallels between past and present, the trio examines South Africa's struggle against apartheid and its recent decision to challenge Israel at the International Court of Justice. Through their conversation, we dissect the mainstream media's portrayal of such actions, highlighting the ongoing battle to control narratives and the critical role of empathy in shaping social justice movements.Sylvia's latest project, a film in development and critically acclaimed play, The Keeper of the Kumm, is based on a book of the same name. You can learn more about Sylvia, as well as the book, the play, and the film here.Support the show
"From 2010 to 2020, more people participated in protests than at any other point in human history. " Yet we are not living in more just and democratic societies as a result...How did so many mass protests lead to the opposite of what they asked for?"Take a look behind the scenes of global uprisings and their unfulfilled aims as Pushback Talks welcomes acclaimed author of "If We Burn: The Mass Protest Decade and the Missing Revolution," Vincent Bevins. In his compelling conversation with Leilani and Fredrik, Bevins dissects a decade of mass protests that captivated the world and changed things in unforeseen ways. From the Arab Spring to Hong Kong's student movements, they explore the complexities and unexpected outcomes of these fervent calls for change and the media that surrounded them. Support the show
Embark on a transformative journey this week with the Filmmaker and the Advocate as they engage in conversation with Rutger Bregman, esteemed historian and author of Humankind and Utopia for Realists. Join the trio as they navigate the heart of societal transformation, unraveling Bregman's impactful contributions to Fredrik's film "Breaking Social." Dive deep into pressing questions like 'How does anger fuel social change?' and 'What defines true philanthropy?' Explore the nuanced dynamics of small groups, unearthing their transformative power in driving substantial change. Don't miss this enlightening episode that delves into the critical distinction between cynicism and anger, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the ever-evolving landscape of societal metamorphosis.Support the show
Ever wondered what it takes to build a thriving community of empowered tenants? In this illuminating episode of Pushback Talks, we speak with Valeria Raçu and Alba Jiménez of the Madrid Tenant's Union (also known as Sindicato de Inquilinas e Inquilinos de Madrid) about building meaningful movements.Join Fredrik and Leilani as they sit down with Valeria and Alba to look closer at the extraordinary impact of collective action in of tenants' rights. In a world where global actors wield immense influence, Valeria and Alba underscore the significance of a united global movement to combat the challenges posed by an increasingly financialized housing market. Valeria and Alba's work with the Union is a call to action, reminding us that when we join forces to protect the rights and dignity of tenants, we create better communities and, ultimately, a better world for all.Tune in to this engaging episode and explore how community power can shape the future of housing and human rights.Support the show
What is it that makes a worker essential? This is the question that Chris Smalls and hundreds of thousands of Amazon workers had to ask as they found themselves working long hours in unsafe conditions at the height of the pandemic, having been deemed 'essential.' But when Chris, who was responsible for training thousands of other employees and upper management, organized a protest for better work conditions he was immediately terminated and told he wasn't articulate enough to be the face of efforts to unionize. Chris responded by pushing it further, creating the Congress of Essential Workers and, eventually, the Amazon Labor Union.Chris joins Fredrik and Leilani to discuss the intense amount of work it took to create the union, the power of challenging the system as his authentic self, and proving those who underestimated him dead wrong. Support the Amazon Labor Union. You can see more about Chris's fight to create the Amazon Labor Union in Fredrik's latest film, Breaking Social. Support the show
Welcome to Season 7 of Pushback Talks! It's been an eventful summer, as nations worldwide grappled with the housing and climate crises, and people took to the streets to protest wealth inequality and the rapidly rising cost of living. In this highly anticipated season premiere, we join Fredrik and Leilani for a one-on-one conversation about their work to push back against the injustices of our time and how their mission adapts as the situation develops.In this premiere episode, Fredrik and Leilani engage in a candid conversation that peels back the layers of the housing crisis as it relates to student housing, the climate crises, and the social contract. What actions can be taken right now to mitigate the crises? The episode underscores the critical need for accountability from both governments and private entities in addressing these far-reaching housing issues.Join us for an engaging Season 7 premiere that deepens our understanding of the how the housing crisis is developing, and stay tuned for an exciting lineup of episodes that will inspire action, promote change, and illuminate the path toward a more just and equitable world. Support the show
This year's summer series is coming to a close! We did things a little differently this year, revisiting some of our favorite episodes from across all six seasons, and giving you updates on the guests and topics at the top of each episode.No matter where you are - we hope you enjoy the final episode of the 2023 Summer Series!Students the world over head to university filled with hopes and dreams for the future. But to pursue those dreams requires secure housing and that's where the nightmare begins. The co-hosts swap stories of student life in London, Lagos, Dublin, Seoul, and Toronto. Students are working multiple jobs to pay the rent, lobbying for the right to sleep in their cars, experiencing sexual coercion, spending hours commuting back and forth each day, and worrying about the debt they're accruing. Just when they should be stepping into the world with energy and strength, they are being beaten down. Lower-income students have less time to study and are leaving university with crippling debt loads, creating new patterns of inequality. The Filmmaker and the Advocate discuss one of the central drivers of these conditions: student housing has become one of the hottest commodities around. It's being scooped up by global vulture funds including … you guessed it … Blackstone. This episode will make you angry and should make all of us want to push back so young people can dream again.In recent days, the story has only gotten worse. In cities around the world, university students are facing homelessness, with many staging protests against universities that accept them without providing a proper and affordable place to stay. In Turkey, Canada, and beyond, students are pushing back against untenable housing conditions.Support the show
It's summertime in Sweden and Canada, so it's time for Pushback Talks - Summer Series! And we're doing things a little differently this year. For the next six weeks, we'll revisit some of our favorite episodes from across all six seasons, giving you updates on the guests and topics at the top of each episode.The Filmmaker and the Advocate are taking a break, but the podcast isn't. No matter where you are - we hope you enjoy this year's Summer Series!This week we revisit Pushback Talks' first-ever guest, Peabody Award-winning investigative journalist, San Francisco resident, and author of, Homewreckers, Aaron Glantz. Glantz speaks with Fredrik and Leilani about the devastating impact of vulture capitalists on millions of Americans since entering the housing sector after the Global Financial Crisis. Nobel Laureate Joseph Stiglitz provides a jumping-off point for the trio to discuss the cozy relationship between government, banks, and private equity that ensured those with money would be winners and those without would have their dreams demolished.Fredrik and Leilani used this episode of PUSHBACK Talks as a wake-up call and a warning: the vultures are likely circling again, with 40 million people in the US who can't pay their rent and nearly 4 million who can't pay their home mortgages. Years later, the financial situation in the US has only worsened, making this conversation all the more relevant. Produced by WG Film Recorded & Edited by Sebastian CronholmMusic by Florencia Di ConcilioSocial Media & Support - Kirsten McRaeSupport the showSupport the show
It's summertime in Sweden and Canada, and that means it's time for Pushback Talks - Summer Series! And we're doing things a little differently this year. For the next six weeks, we'll revisit some of our favorite episodes from across all six seasons, giving you updates on the guests and topics at the top of each episode.The Filmmaker and the Advocate are taking a break, but the podcast isn't. No matter where you are - we hope you enjoy this year's Summer Series!In this episode, we look back at Fredrik and Leilani's 2021 conversation with Denmark's then Housing Minister – Kaare Dybvad Bek – one of the few politicians in the world to have had the courage to take on Blackstone and other institutional investors. With Copenhagen being dominated by private equity, pension funds, and asset management firms, the Minister took matters into his own hands. Despite considerable pressure, a Parliamentary Committee launched an investigation into the matter and successfully put forward ground-breaking legislation aimed at keeping big finance out of Copenhagen's housing market. Known as ‘Lex Blackstone', the legislation put a 5-year ban on renovations and rent increases for new owners and strengthened tenants' rights. The legislation had its intended results: fewer institutional investors and a significant decrease in property prices. Denmark's legislation still offers inspiration and stands as a model for advocates and politicians across the globe, even years later.Support the show
It's summertime in Sweden and Canada, and that means it's time for Pushback Talks - Summer Series! And we're doing things a little differently this year. For the next six weeks, we'll revisit some of our favorite episodes from across all six seasons, giving you updates on the guests and topics at the top of each episode. The Filmmaker and the Advocate are taking a break, but the podcast isn't. No matter where you are - we hope you enjoy this year's Summer Series!This week we're looking back at extra special guests from Port Harcourt Nigeria – Chicoco Radio, made up of rappers and mappers, musicians, journalists, filmmakers and photographers. Together they discuss the harsh inequalities experienced in Africa's largest nation, particularly in the oil-producing Delta Coast – where erasure of communities and extremely violent forced evictions are a common part of life. The Chicoco guests draw parallels between their experiences of police brutality at the hands of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and recent protests and the Black Lives Matter movement. What makes Chicoco utterly special - as well as this episode of PUSHBACK Talks - is their use of song in their resistance. They say -- in Chicoco we've all experienced forced evictions either first-hand or through someone we love. We're singing for change … to push back the fear of demolitions, of bullets and of wounds. Here we go. Turn this one up LOUD.More from Chicoco Radio at https://chicoco.fm/Guests:Grace Timi Tammy UzodinmaIB JohnsonMichael UwemedimoMusicians:Miebaka Kienabere - lead voxFaithia Blaze - voxImanny Cleverstone - rapSlim D - rapYoung Crown - rapDenny Tunez - guitarBright Benjamin - cajonChicoco Radio Team:Tech:Osom ProductPromise SundayAna BonaldoCamera:Imanny CleverstoneTammy FingazIT:Kelex Maduewesi Produced by WG Film Recorded & Edited by Mikey JonesMusic by Florencia Di ConcilioSocial Media & Support Team - Louise Gustafsson & Maja Moberg Support the showSupport the show
It's summertime in Sweden and Canada, and that means it's time for Pushback Talks - Summer Series! And we're doing things a little differently this year. For the next six weeks, we'll revisit some of our favorite episodes from across all six seasons, giving you updates on the guests and topics at the top of each episode. The Filmmaker and the Advocate are taking a break, but the podcast isn't. No matter where you are - we hope you enjoy this year's Summer Series!In this flashback episode, Leilani and Fredrik are joined by Anand Giridharadas, an American journalist and writer, to discuss the art of persuasion and engaging in conversations that bring people together. They explore strategies to connect on a human level and foster emotional intelligence within pro-democracy movements. Drawing from Anand's book, "The Persuaders," they explore how to create compelling visions for the future that inspire others to join the cause. Join the conversation as they delve into the transformative power of persuasion and the importance of building shared visions for a more united world.Support the show
It's summertime in Sweden and Canada, and that means it's time for Pushback Talks - Summer Series! And we're doing things a little differently this year. For the next six weeks, we'll revisit some of our favorite episodes from across all six seasons, giving you updates on the guests and topics at the top of each episode. The Filmmaker and the Advocate are taking a break, but the podcast isn't. No matter where you are - we hope you enjoy this year's Summer Series!The Filmmaker and the Advocate take listeners of this episode of PUSHBACK Talks into the real world – one where $$ money $$ is the principle value and corruption and kleptocracy the means of acquisition. Few are better placed to expose the workings of corruption than Sarah Chayes – former NPR reporter, and senior adviser to government officials in the US Department of Defence, and author of three books including her most recent, On Corruption in America and What is at Stake. Drawing on her experiences in Afghanistan, Nigeria, Honduras, Lebanon and beyond, Chayes reveals that contrary to media reporting, corruption is not about individuals or single acts. Rather, it operates through sophisticated networks that link together people from very different sectors of society, spanning governments and the private sector. These networks are flexible and exist through time, over decades, losing members along the way as protests and civil unrest require, and then gaining more members after each sacrifice. Network members bend and repurpose the institutions and agencies of government to make them serve the objectives of the network, rather than the public interest. The pivotal role of real estate in all of this is not lost on Chayes who notes a universal feature of these networks of corruption is the use of real estate as a vehicle. So what's at stake when kleptocracy and corruption are left unchallenged? Nothing less than democracy.Produced by WG Film Recorded & Edited by Mikey JonesMusic by Florencia Di ConcilioSocial Media & Support Team - Maja Moberg, Valerie Estrina, Hanna LeanderSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/pushbacktalks)Support the showSupport the show
In the last few years, the city of Bologna has been undergoing some big changes. Already known as a progressive city throughout the region, the city is putting its people in the driver's seat when it comes to housing policy in the hopes that the national government will follow its example. Sparked by the election of a neo-fascist national government and nationwide protests over a lack of affordable student housing, Bologna is joining with 11 other cities across Italy to push for housing change. After decades without structural investment in housing at any government level, the people of Bologna joined together to push the government to take action.Fredrik and Leilani speak with Emily Marion Clancy, Deputy Mayor of Bologna, about the cool ways the city is using policy to give power back to the people and where they hope it will all lead.Support the show
Join us for an eye-opening episode as we dive into the world of urban geography and technology with Dr. Desiree Fields, an esteemed scholar, and researcher. Drawing from her extensive expertise, Dr. Fields shines a light on the tangible effects of digital platforms, uncovering the stark socio-economic disparities they bring to our cities.In this engaging conversation, we explore the real-life implications of digital technologies on urban governance and policy-making. Dr. Fields emphasizes the need to understand how algorithms, data-driven decision-making, and smart city initiatives shape our communities, perpetuating inequalities in the distribution of crucial resources.Follow along as we explore the real-life consequences of digital platforms, from housing challenges and affordability issues to technological inequalities faced by marginalized communities. Leilani, Fredrik, & Dr. Fields discuss the need for inclusive policies that address the negative impacts of digital platforms, promote equitable access to technology, and prioritize the well-being of all urban residents. Listen in to gain insights on the impacts of digital platforms and discover how we can foster a more inclusive and equitable future for our cities.Check out Dr. Fields' paper of the same name: "Automated Landlord: Digital Technologies and Post-crisis Financial Accumulation" and her other work on technology and financialization here.Support the show
Join us in this thought-provoking episode of Pushback Talks as we sit down with Rebecca Riddell, Policy Lead, Economic Justice at Oxfam America. In a candid conversation, Leilani, Fredrik, and Rebecca speak on the importance of engaging in difficult conversations and effectively communicating across ideological divides when advocating for housing rights.We delve into what increasing taxes on the rich for the specific purpose of human rights outcomes could look like, the importance of working in coalition, and even about a group of millionaires committed to raising taxes on the wealthy. Is there a way to keep the essential parts of our society out of the speculative finance bubble? What does economic justice look like? Listen to this week's episode to find out!Rebecca Riddell, BIOSupport the show
It's been over 7 years since the Jubilee Party of Kenya set out the ambitious Big Four Agenda to address affordable housing, affordable healthcare, food security, and manufacturing. As part of this ambitious plan, the City of Nairobi aimed to deliver 1 million housing units by 2022, with that number later being lowered to 500,000 to make the goal more attainable. But now, all these years later and more than halfway to the Big Four deadline of 2030, barely 9,000 units have been built. The government has done little to address the shortfall or to rebuild the confidence of Kenyan citizens that they can accomplish the task. At the same time, residents of informal settlements are being evicted en masse to make way for new development, sometimes tens of thousands of people at a time.Fredrik and Leilani meet with Pauline Vata, founder, and lead lawyer at Pauline Vata & Associates Advocates, an expert in public policy advocacy, and former Executive Director of Kenyan human rights organization Hakijamii, to talk about informal settlement evictions, the importance of comprehensive domestic law in realizing the right to housing, and how more Kenyans are becoming empowered to fight for adequate housing.To learn more about Pauline's work, check her out on Twitter @VataPauline.Support the show
Breaking Social made its big debut at the CPH:DOX International Film Festival, but the conversation is far from over. In this gripping episode, Fredrik sits down with Matthew Caruana Galizia, an investigative journalist who has spent years taking on ultra-wealthy people and corporations to uncover corruption. As the creator of the Daphne Caruana Galizia Foundation, Matthew fights for justice for his mother, a Maltese journalist who was assassinated in 2017.Matthew shares the story of how he and his colleagues made the decision to pursue this dangerous work, despite the risks. He explains how these corporations intentionally create confusing networks to mask their corruption, and the grave dangers journalists face when they try to expose the truth.Join us for an eye-opening conversation about the critical role of investigative journalists in holding the powerful accountable, and the sacrifices they make in the name of the truth. Don't miss this chance to hear firsthand from a hero of Breaking Social and learn more about Matthew's ongoing fight against corruption.Support the show
There's a new addition to the WG Film catalog! Fredrik's latest film, Breaking Social, is about the social contract we live by in society -- and the ways that the social contract is subverted and abused by the ultra-wealthy to undermine democracy and give them control of the world we live in. From Chile to the Netherlands, Breaking Social explores our upside-down economy while asking the question: 'Can we afford the rich?'The film, which features many previous guests from Pushback Talks, made its debut on March 16th at the CPH:DOX International Film Festival. Now, join Fredrik and Leilani as they discuss the making of the film and how Fredrik hopes Breaking Social will help turn people's anger into hope, and help us find a way beyond cynicism and despair. Let's change the conversation, and start talking about the society we want to build. Learn more about Breaking Social, and support the film on Kickstarter here!Support the show
From 2012-2022, and in the midst of a major construction boom, Turkiye fell nearly 50 places on the Transparency International Corruption Perception Index, from 54 to 101 out of 174 countries. The country has been praised for its ability to do infrastructure quickly, but the level of damage caused by a recent 7.8-magnitude quake has drawn greater attention to the amount of corruption in Turkiye's construction industry. With more than 45,000 dead, over $100 billion in damage, and 25,000 buildings reduced to rubble, Turkish citizens are outraged at the disorganized government response and the lack of proper preparation and are calling for greater government accountability. Just three months before a scheduled election, President Erdogan and his government are under intense scrutiny for the amount of damage, with a spotlight on the corrupt policies that allowed developers to cut corners on safety.Fredrik and Leilani sit down for two separate conversations on these recent events. First, they meet with Professor Gönül Tol, founding director of the Middle East Institute's Turkey Program, senior fellow for the Frontier Europe Initiative, and author of "Erdogan's War: A Strongman's Struggle at Home and in Syria," to recount her experience on the ground during the earthquake and to discuss how Erdogan instituted an autocracy that weakened Turkiye's vital institutions.Then, they speak with Cihan Uzuncarsili Baysal, a member of Istanbul Urban Defense and an independent researcher, to discuss how Turkiye's economic and political history brought us to this moment.Support the show
Apartments in Serbia are selling fast. But the average income in Serbia is about 640 euros and the average price of an apartment is 2000 euros, so who is buying the apartments?The Russian invasion of Ukraine has caused a domino effect around the world in a multitude of areas. Serbia, one of the few countries openly accepting Russians is facing an unprecedented housing crisis linked to the influx of people since the conflict first broke out. As more Russians buy property, the cost of living in Serbia has skyrocketed, and supply is growing short. Anger and resentment about landlords and about Russians has led the social situation to worsen as tensions grow.Fredrik & Leilani meet with Jovana Timotijevic & Marko Aksentijević of Serbia's Ministry of Space to discuss how the country's history of communism and the current influx of wealthy Russians & Ukrainians fleeing the war is taking things from bad to worse.Support the show