Podcasts about Authoritarianism

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

The Madness of King Trump: NATO, Venezuela, Greenland & a Nation on the Brink | The Karel Cast Is this still politics—or has it crossed into something far more dangerous? Venezuela's president claims he was kidnapped while insisting he remains in power. Colombia is on high alert, warning it will fight back if provoked. Denmark issues a chilling warning: if Donald Trump makes a move on Greenland, NATO itself could collapse. This isn't exaggeration anymore. This is the Madness of King Trump. If Congress fails to act, the consequences could be irreversible—not just for democracy, but for whether the United States even survives another 250 years. The warning signs are flashing everywhere. Plus: • A fatal mountain lion attack near a national park after months of “menacing” behavior—and why I'm unapologetically on Team Lion • A heartbreaking story of a mother who lost her son after he followed advice from a chatbot—why blind faith in AI is dangerous Sharp analysis. Uncomfortable truths. No sugarcoating. The Karel Cast is supported by viewer donations at patreon.com/reallykarel Please watch, like, subscribe, and share at youtube.com/reallykarel The show streams on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker, and more—Monday through Thursday at 10:30 AM PT, and on TikTok and Instagram. Broadcasting from Las Vegas with my service girl Ember—this is The Karel Cast. #Trump, #KingTrump, #PoliticalCrisis, #WorldNews, #NATO, #Greenland, #Venezuela, #Colombia, #USPolitics, #DemocracyInDanger, #Authoritarianism, #GlobalConflict, #PoliticalCommentary, #TheKarelCast, #NewsAnalysis, #AIethics, #ChatGPT, #MountainLion, #NationalParks, #CurrentEvents https://youtube.com/live/kGda_cUYKUA

An Unhinged President Crosses a Red Line: Is America Now at War? | The Karel Cast An out-of-control President has crossed an unthinkable line — invading a sovereign nation, detaining its President and First Lady, and declaring the United States will “run the country” indefinitely. That isn't diplomacy. It's an undeclared act of war, a violation of U.S. and international law, and a chilling step toward modern-day colonization. Even more disturbing? Congress is largely silent, slow-walking its response while one man accumulates extraordinary power. How does this end? Who finally steps up to challenge it? Plus — the devastating Swiss fire tragedy. As investigators search for causes and accountability, Karel asks an uncomfortable but necessary question after watching the footage: Why didn't they run? Is it shock, youth, denial — or something deeper about how we respond to danger? Also in this episode: • A sharp pet-peeve illustration • Leo questions whether Americans still have the stomach for one long-standing national tradition This is urgent, unsettling, and essential conversation. The Karel Cast is supported by viewers like you at patreon.com/reallykarel

Filmmaker Petra Costa and producer Alessandra Orofino join Frank Schaeffer to explore how evangelical movements fused with authoritarian politics in Brazil—and why the same forces are reshaping democracy in the United States.Watch Apocalypse in the TropicsI have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

The Henry and Lisa Manoucheri Parsha Shiur  Parshas VaY'chi (2025 - Teves תשפ״ו)  Obliterating Internal and External Authoritarianism Plus  The Journey from Religion to JUDAISM 

In his forthcoming book The Nerd Reich Gil Duran explains why tech billionaires have soured on democracy, how deeply they are rooted in contemporary politics and what that means for all of us.PLUS: Second City alumni Jayne Eastwood and Robin Duke reflect on 50 years of comedy and friendshipPrescriptions for museums, galleries and concerts can tackle illness in ways healthcare providers can'tActor and activist George Takei talks about coming out at age 68 in his new memoirRiffed from the Headlines, our weekly musical news quiz

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

While Democracy Works is on winter break, we're bringing you an episode from our colleagues at The Context, a podcast from the Charles F. Kettering Foundation and a fellow member of The Democracy Group podcast network. Host Alex Lovit looks back at the advice from the show's guests this year about how everyday people can get involved in fighting authoritarianism and encouraging citizen engagement. You'll hear from:Ece Temelkuran, Turkish writer and author of  How To Lose a Country, the Seven Steps From Democracy to FascismDaniel Hunter, educator with Freedom Trainers and director of Choose Democracy,Deva Woodly, professor of political science at Brown University and nonresident fellow at KetteringMaria Stephan, co-lead and chief organizer at Horizons ProjectSharon L. Davies, president and CEO of the Charles F. Kettering FoundationSteven Levitsky, professor of government at Harvard and co-author of How Democracies DieJohn C. Yang,  president and executive director of Asian Americans Advancing JusticeWe hope this episode leaves you feeling inspired about what you can do to strengthen democracy in 2026 and beyond. Thank you to the team at The Context for sharing it with us! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We speak to Mansoor Ali Shah, who served as the Senior Puisne Judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan until just last month. Shah is one of two judges who resigned after parliament passed a constitutional amendment that curbed its remit and will no longer allow the Supreme Court to hear constitutional cases. The judges say the reform “stands as a grave assault on the constitution”. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What are the legal implications of the unprecedented mass pardoning of the January 6th rioters? What does it say about American rule of law? President Biden's DOJ prosecuted nearly 1,600 of the January 6, 2021, rioters—many for acts of shocking violence against police and government offices. On January 20, newly sworn-in President Trump, in one of his first official acts, issued a sweeping grant of clemency to all of the rioters charged in connection with the attack on the Capitol attack. He pardoned most defendants and commuted the sentences of 14 members of the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers militia, most of whom had been convicted of seditious conspiracy. The response from some of these violent rioters since the pardons has been alarming.“The people who did this, they need to feel the heat. We need to find and put them behind bars for what they did,” said Enrique Tarrio, the former national Proud Boys leader, sentenced to a 22-year sentence on seditious conspiracy charges, on Alex Jones' podcast soon after his pardon. Our guests today are Stanford Law Professor Shirin Sinnar and former DOJ prosecutor Brendan Ballou.Sinnar's scholarship, including a recent study of hate groups, focuses on the legal treatment of political violence, the procedural dimensions of civil rights litigation, and the role of institutions in protecting individual rights and democratic values in the national security contextBallou was a lawyer at the Department of Justice for five years. He resigned on January 23 soon after President Trump's pardons. In a New York Times opinion essay, he wrote: “For while some convicted rioters seem genuinely remorseful, and others appear simply ready to put politics behind them, many others are emboldened by the termination of what they see as unjust prosecutions. Freed by the president, they have never been more dangerous.” He graduated from Stanford Law in 2016.Links:Shirin Sinnar >>> Stanford Law pageNew York Times piece by Brendan Ballou >>> I Prosecuted the Capitol Rioters. They Have Never Been More Dangerous.Connect:Episode Transcripts >>> Stanford Legal Podcast WebsiteStanford Legal Podcast >>> LinkedIn PageRich Ford >>>  Twitter/XPam Karlan >>> Stanford Law School PageStanford Law School >>> Twitter/XStanford Lawyer Magazine >>> Twitter/X(00:00:00) The January 6th Prosecutions and the Pardon Power(00:06:26) Rewriting History and the Threat of Political Violence (00:11:56) The Future of Political Violence in the U.S. (17:24) Addressing Militia Violence and Legal Gaps(21:37) State-Level Prosecutions and Risks of Expanding Criminal Laws(25:27) Pardons, Political Violence, and Historical Parallels   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We continue our Best of 2025 episodes with an episode from The Context podcast.Enjoying the show? Subscribe to hear the rest of The Context's episodes!

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

VENEZUELA'S TRAGIC DECLINE FROM PROSPERITY TO AUTHORITARIANISM Colleague Professor Evan Ellis. Historical imagery reveals Venezuela's transformation from a prosperous, modern nation in the 1950s to a ruined state today. Deep inequality and corruption in the pre-Chavez era alienated the poor, allowing Hugo Chavez to capitalize on their frustration and dismantle the free market system, leading to the current crisis. NUMBER 6 1948 CARACAS

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Description:  Originally released in 2024, this episode is re-released in 2025 to honor the lives and legacy of Rob Reiner and Michelle Reiner, whose sudden deaths are deeply felt. We share this conversation again to uplift the vital work they brought into the world.How does a religion rooted in love and peace become a force that fuels political violence, as seen on January 6, 2021? In the documentary God & Country, producer Rob Reiner and director Dan Partland, examine the rise of Christian Nationalism — a dangerous fusion of patriarchal White Nationalism and messianic faith. Based on Katherine Stewart's The Power Worshippers, the film reveals how this movement threatens both secular democracy and Christianity itself.Rob Reiner — Emmy-winning actor, acclaimed director, and lifelong defender of democratic values — devoted his later years to confronting authoritarianism. Michelle Reiner, also a producer on God & Country, was a vital creative and moral force behind the film and this episode. Their work, and their warning, remain urgent in 2025 as the consequences of the 2024 election continue to unfold.The episode closes with Laura Flanders on why civic engagement matters now more than ever.Guests:•  Dan Partland: Director, God & Country•  Rob Reiner: Producer, God & Country• Full Conversation-  LISTENMake a tax deductible YEAR END DONATION and become a member, go to LauraFlanders.org/donate. This show is made possible thanks to you!  *Recommended book:“The Power Worshippers: Inside the Dangerous Rise of Religious Nationalism” by Katherine Stewart,  Get the Book(*Bookshop is an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. The LF Show is an affiliate of bookshop.org and will receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.)Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:•  Lisa Graves: The Extremist Revolution & Democracy Hanging by a Thread, Watch  /  Listen-Download Podcast•  Congressman Jamie Raskin On January 6th: After a Failed Coup, a Successful One?, Watch / Listen-Download Podcast•  How Radical Self Love Can Heal the World, Watch  /  Listen-Download PodcastRelated Articles and Resources:•  ‘God & Country,' the Movie, List of Theater by zipcode  Information Here•  Stop the Coup 2025 - Stop Project 2025 - Get Involved / Learn More Here• All of Us, Organizing to Counter White Christian Nationalism and Build a Pro-Democracy Society, by Organizing All of Us, PDF Download•  Why a Group of Christians Is Fighting the Growing Threat of Christian Nationalism, by Vera Bergengruen, January 6, 2021, TIME Magazine, Read Here•  White Christian Nationalism:  Attacking our Democracy, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, Learn More Here•  BJC (Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, Learn More Here Support Laura Flanders and Friends by becoming a member at https://www.patreon.com/c/lauraflandersandfriends Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer; Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O'Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

While, maybe, in murky legal waters, Attorney General Pam Bondi is building out the infrastructure for greater spying, policing and prosecution of social movements, and anyone else deemed an enemy of the state. It instructs agents, analysts, and grant makers what to do next and with whom, and those orders will hit real people and organizations almost immediately.In our latest, Scott talks with return guest Adam Federman (@adamfederman) to discuss NPMS-7 and the recently released "Bondi Memo" rewriting of past civil liberties guardrails. Bio//Adam Federman works at Type Investigations as a reporting fellow. He has written extensively on corporate and police spying on environmental activists, much of which has appeared in the Guardian. He's also been published in Politico Magazine, the Nation, The Washington Post, Wired, Columbia Journalism Review, Adirondack Life, and Gastronomica. ------------------------------

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Indivisible's Ezra Levin and Hungarian organizer László Upor share creative, community-driven tactics — from joyful protests to bold campus actions — that pushed back against autocratic agendas. Their message: you have more power than you think.Make a tax deductible YEAR END DONATION and become a member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate. This show is made possible by you! Description: If you care about resisting autocracy and building democracy, the U.S. has much to learn from Hungary. While Donald Trump rails against Europe, he and Hungary's strongman leader, Viktor Orbán, have praised each other for years. Anti-democratic, anti-immigrant, anti-woman, anti-queer — Orbán and Trump came to power on parallel tracks with similar values. In their first interview together, Ezra Levin, the co-founder of Indivisible (the group behind No Kings!) and László Upor, a leader in one of Hungary's most creative and visible resistance efforts, share their experiences of resisting authoritarianism. Upor is former Vice Rector and Acting Rector of the University of Theatre and Film Arts in Budapest — the one university that fought back when the Orbán administration began taking control of Hungary's universities. Levin is the co-founder and co-executive director of Indivisible, the grassroots movement behind such protests as the historic Hands Off and No Kings rallies. From the principles of their organizing to frog suits and caution tape, today's episode is a masterclass in creative resistance. Plus a commentary from Laura.“Our enemy in this isn't Trump, it's not the Republicans. It's not the broader regime. Our enemy is this sense of cynicism or fatalism or nihilism . . . I do think a core principle in our communication philosophy is convincing people, you have power, you just gotta use it. The best way to use it is in concert with a lot of other people in your community.” - Ezra Levin“You have to laugh at them, not be afraid of them . . . They don't understand mirth. They don't understand the derision. They think they are invincible. And when we don't give in, they don't understand what's going on.” - László UpperGuests:• Ezra Levin: Co-Founder & Co-Executive Director, Indivisible• László Upor: Former Vice Rector & Acting Rector, University of Theatre and Film Arts (SzFE), Budapest, HungaryListen to the full uncut conversation in this podcast feed.Watch the episode released on YouTube, PBS World Channel, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast.Full Episode Notes are located HERE.Music Credit: “Give In to What is Real” by STR4TA from their album Aspects released on Brownswood Recordings, "Steppin" by Podington Bear, and original sound design by Jeannie HopperSupport Laura Flanders and Friends by becoming a member at https://www.patreon.com/c/lauraflandersandfriends RESOURCES:* Recommended Book:“We Are Indivisible: A Blueprint for Democracy After Trump” by Leah Greenberg and Ezra Levin, Get the Book*(*Bookshop is an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. The LF Show is an affiliate of bookshop.org and will receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.) Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:• Congresswoman Jayapal & Marine Veteran Goldbeck: Standing Together Against the Administration's War on Civilians:  Watch / Listen:  Full uncut interview and Episode cut• Masha Gessen & Jason Stanley: Is it Doomsday for U.S. Democracy?: Watch / Listen:  Full uncut interview and Episode cut • Dolores Huerta & Ellen Gavin: Creative Courage in the Face of Fascism:  Watch / Listen:  Full uncut interview and Episode cut   Related Articles and Resources:•  Indivisible:  A Practical Guide to Democracy on the Brink:  Strategies, Tactics, & Tips for How Everyday Americans Can Fight Back Together Wherever We Live, lead authors Leah & Ezra -co-founders of Indivisible, Download the PDF and Audio Version•  The Three R's Framework by Scot Nakagawa, October 1, 2025, Substack•. Countering Authocratization:  Lessons from the 2025 Harvard Nonviolent Action Lab Summit, October 16, 2025, Harvard Kennedy School:  Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation•  Learning Republic: Students and Teachers from Hungary's Theater and Film University Build an Alternative to Autocracy, by Alisa Solomon, Theater Magazine•  The Government Took Over Their University.  Here's How These Students Fought Back, by Todd London, September 16, 2025, Howlround Theatre Commons• How to save the news.  The internet has become a tool of misinformation and mass surveillance.  A global initiative seeks to change that. by Marta Peirano, November 5, 2025, Prospect Avenue•  Artists Against Authoritarianism: A Talk by László Upor, September 2, 2025, Columbia University School of the Arts Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer; Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O'Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Today I spoke with Senior Fellow at the Centre for Asian Law, University of Georgetown, Dr Yan-ho Lai (Eric) about his book, Legal Resistance under Authoritarianism: The Struggle for the Rule of Law in Hong Kong (Amsterdam UP, 2025). We spoke about the complexities of authoritarian consolidation by Beijing in the Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong, and the role that lawyers have played in defending the rule of law. Uniquely positioned as both a Hong Konger and also an academic now outside Hong Kong, Dr Lai's work draws on some 77 qualitative interviews up to the period when the National Security Law was introduced in 2020. By documenting a unique transitional period in Hong Kong, this book serves as an important counterpoint to the dominant sovereign narrative and gives voice to many who are otherwise unrepresented. However, the learnings are inherently transferable in terms of bringing understanding of the role that lawyers play in defending the rule of law in situations of encroaching authoritarianism.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Today I spoke with Senior Fellow at the Centre for Asian Law, University of Georgetown, Dr Yan-ho Lai (Eric) about his book, Legal Resistance under Authoritarianism: The Struggle for the Rule of Law in Hong Kong (Amsterdam UP, 2025). We spoke about the complexities of authoritarian consolidation by Beijing in the Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong, and the role that lawyers have played in defending the rule of law. Uniquely positioned as both a Hong Konger and also an academic now outside Hong Kong, Dr Lai's work draws on some 77 qualitative interviews up to the period when the National Security Law was introduced in 2020. By documenting a unique transitional period in Hong Kong, this book serves as an important counterpoint to the dominant sovereign narrative and gives voice to many who are otherwise unrepresented. However, the learnings are inherently transferable in terms of bringing understanding of the role that lawyers play in defending the rule of law in situations of encroaching authoritarianism.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/east-asian-studies

We've gotten a ton of excellent advice from our guests this year about how everyday people can get involved in fighting authoritarianism and encouraging citizen engagement. So, in this year-end lookback episode, we decided to put the top seven suggestions together in one place. Featuring clips from Ece Temelkuran, Jeffrey Winters, Deva Woodly, Maria Stephan, Sharon Davies, Steven Levitsky, and John C. Yang. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today I spoke with Senior Fellow at the Centre for Asian Law, University of Georgetown, Dr Yan-ho Lai (Eric) about his book, Legal Resistance under Authoritarianism: The Struggle for the Rule of Law in Hong Kong (Amsterdam UP, 2025). We spoke about the complexities of authoritarian consolidation by Beijing in the Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong, and the role that lawyers have played in defending the rule of law. Uniquely positioned as both a Hong Konger and also an academic now outside Hong Kong, Dr Lai's work draws on some 77 qualitative interviews up to the period when the National Security Law was introduced in 2020. By documenting a unique transitional period in Hong Kong, this book serves as an important counterpoint to the dominant sovereign narrative and gives voice to many who are otherwise unrepresented. However, the learnings are inherently transferable in terms of bringing understanding of the role that lawyers play in defending the rule of law in situations of encroaching authoritarianism.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/chinese-studies

One of 2025's most memorable images was of Silicon Valley's billionaire CEOs lined up in the front rows at President Donald Trump's inauguration. It was visual proof of the tech industry's embrace of MAGA's authoritarian-style of politics — one it has benefited from considerably over the last year. Author and neuroscientist Sam Harris has been using his podcast, “Making Sense,” to talk about the ways tech moguls are corroding our politics, and although he used to be close with some of them, he's become a vocal critic of their support for Trump. Kara and Sam talk about why he thinks the left is to blame for the tech billionaires' shift to the right, why all of us are bad at sorting through the glut of information we find online, and the potential risks that come with the Trump administration's hands-off approach to A.I. They also talk about what possible tech regulation could look like, and whether everyday people stand a chance against tech oligarchs and their platforms.  (Please note: This interview was recorded before President Trump signed an executive order to block states from passing A.I. regulation.) Questions? Comments? Email us at on@voxmedia.com or find us on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and Bluesky @onwithkaraswisher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rachel Maddow hosts a prime time special event with historian Timothy Snyder about the rise of authoritarianism and how we can meet the moment. (Recorded on November 21, 2025 at the Harris Theater in Chicago's Millennium Park) Want more of Rachel? Check out the "Rachel Maddow Presents" feed to listen to all of her chart-topping original podcasts.To listen to all of your favorite MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brad and Dan return to unpack another week of chaos, contradictions, and creeping authoritarianism in American politics. They open with what seems like a small story but carries outsized symbolic weight: the State Department's decision to ditch Calibri and return to Times New Roman. It's a font change driven not by aesthetics but by politics, revealing how the Trump administration is using even bureaucratic details to signal exclusion, target accessibility, and roll back DEI efforts. What looks trivial becomes a window into the deeper logic of authoritarian control. From there, the conversation widens to the issues shaping the country's political landscape. Brad and Dan examine ICE's ever expanding budget, the ongoing manipulation of the election system through voter roll purges and gerrymandering, and a string of contentious congressional hearings, including Kristi Noem's abrupt walkout and the FBI's admission that it cannot define Antifa as a coherent organizational threat. They also discuss Trump's increasingly explicit racist and misogynistic rhetoric and the striking silence from GOP leaders who once claimed to stand for democratic norms. Despite the bleak headlines, Brad and Dan highlight signs that Trump's influence may be eroding. They point to GOP resistance emerging in places like Indiana, rumblings of discontent within the Heritage Foundation, and encouraging gains for Democrats in state legislatures and mayoral races. But they also wrestle with the central tension of the moment: does Trump's declining popularity matter if structural control continues to consolidate beneath him. Can the MAGA movement build enduring institutions, or is it fundamentally a brittle coalition held together by grievance and spectacle. Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 1000+ episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC Order Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163 Subscribe to Teología Sin Vergüenza Subscribe to American Exceptionalism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Synopsis:  If you're worried about authoritarianism, this episode reminds you that people-powered resistance still wins. Indivisible's Ezra Levin and Hungarian organizer László Upor share creative, community-driven tactics — from joyful protests to bold campus actions — that pushed back against autocratic agendas. Their message: you have more power than you think.Make a tax deductible YEAR END DONATION and become a member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate. This show is made possible by you! Description: If you care about resisting autocracy and building democracy, the U.S. has much to learn from Hungary. While Donald Trump rails against Europe, he and Hungary's strongman leader, Viktor Orbán, have praised each other for years. Anti-democratic, anti-immigrant, anti-woman, anti-queer — Orbán and Trump came to power on parallel tracks with similar values. In their first interview together, Ezra Levin, the co-founder of Indivisible (the group behind No Kings!) and László Upor, a leader in one of Hungary's most creative and visible resistance efforts, share their experiences of resisting authoritarianism. Upor is former Vice Rector and Acting Rector of the University of Theatre and Film Arts in Budapest — the one university that fought back when the Orbán administration began taking control of Hungary's universities. Levin is the co-founder and co-executive director of Indivisible, the grassroots movement behind such protests as the historic Hands Off and No Kings rallies. From the principles of their organizing to frog suits and caution tape, today's episode is a masterclass in creative resistance. Plus a commentary from Laura.“Our enemy in this isn't Trump, it's not the Republicans. It's not the broader regime. Our enemy is this sense of cynicism or fatalism or nihilism . . . I do think a core principle in our communication philosophy is convincing people, you have power, you just gotta use it. The best way to use it is in concert with a lot of other people in your community.” - Ezra Levin“You have to laugh at them, not be afraid of them . . . They don't understand mirth. They don't understand the derision. They think they are invincible. And when we don't give in, they don't understand what's going on.” - László UpperGuests:• Ezra Levin: Co-Founder & Co-Executive Director, Indivisible• László Upor: Former Vice Rector & Acting Rector, University of Theatre and Film Arts (SzFE), Budapest, Hungary Watch the episode released on YouTube; PBS World Channel December 14th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast December 17th.Full Episode Notes are located HERE.Music Credit:  'Thrum of Soil' by Bluedot Sessions, 'Steppin' by Podington Bear, and original sound design by Jeannie HopperSupport Laura Flanders and Friends by becoming a member at https://www.patreon.com/c/lauraflandersandfriends RESOURCES:* Recommended Book:“We Are Indivisible: A Blueprint for Democracy After Trump” by Leah Greenberg and Ezra Levin, Get the Book*(*Bookshop is an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. The LF Show is an affiliate of bookshop.org and will receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.) Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:• Congresswoman Jayapal & Marine Veteran Goldbeck: Standing Together Against the Administration's War on Civilians:  Watch / Listen:  Full uncut interview and Episode cut• Masha Gessen & Jason Stanley: Is it Doomsday for U.S. Democracy?: Watch / Listen:  Full uncut interview and Episode cut • Dolores Huerta & Ellen Gavin: Creative Courage in the Face of Fascism:  Watch / Listen:  Full uncut interview and Episode cut   Related Articles and Resources:•  Indivisible:  A Practical Guide to Democracy on the Brink:  Strategies, Tactics, & Tips for How Everyday Americans Can Fight Back Together Wherever We Live, lead authors Leah & Ezra -co-founders of Indivisible, Download the PDF and Audio Version•  The Three R's Framework by Scot Nakagawa, October 1, 2025, Substack•. Countering Authocratization:  Lessons from the 2025 Harvard Nonviolent Action Lab Summit, October 16, 2025, Harvard Kennedy School:  Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation•  Learning Republic: Students and Teachers from Hungary's Theater and Film University Build an Alternative to Autocracy, by Alisa Solomon, Theater Magazine•  The Government Took Over Their University.  Here's How These Students Fought Back, by Todd London, September 16, 2025, Howlround Theatre Commons• How to save the news.  The internet has become a tool of misinformation and mass surveillance.  A global initiative seeks to change that. by Marta Peirano, November 5, 2025, Prospect Avenue•  Artists Against Authoritarianism: A Talk by László Upor, September 2, 2025, Columbia University School of the Arts  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer; Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O'Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Trump has escalated his attacks against the press by insulting journalists, filing lawsuits against news organizations, and defunding the CPB.

John and Joey reveal how devotion to Jesus can slowly be entangled with authoritarian control inside the New Apostolic Reformation. Joey describes how constant pressure to obey “apostles,” secrecy around finances, plagiarism from the pulpit, and emotional manipulation led to a crisis of trust in leadership—yet not in Christ. The conversation continues to discuss how spiritual abuse thrives wherever human power replaces biblical accountability, yet freedom and healing are possible. This testimony offers hope to anyone escaping high-control churches: you can leave toxic authority behind without leaving Jesus. Your faith can survive—and grow stronger—after the NAR. ______________________ Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR: Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1735160962 Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCGGZX3K ______________________ – Support the channel: https://www.patreon.com/branham – Visit the website: https://william-branham.org

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

The UK is cracking down on free speech — and it's shocking how far authorities will go:

Nicolle Wallace is joined by Fmr. Senator Claire McCaskill and John Heilemann to cover Trump boasting about taking more cognitive tests and how he has “ACED” them all four (or was it three?) times. Later, tennis legend Martina Navratilova joins Nicolle to talk about Navratilova's frustration with what Donald Trump is doing to America.For more, follow us on Instagram @deadlinewhTo listen to this show and other MS NOW podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. For more from Nicolle, follow and download her podcast, “The Best People with Nicolle Wallace,” wherever you get your podcasts.To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Leaving MAGA founder Richard Logis joins Anthony Davis to discuss the increasing number of Trumpers waking up to his corruption, cruelty, lies and abuse - who are leaving the Trump Republican party in droves, and choosing a new political life of kindness and generosity amongst independents and Democrats - only on The Weekend Show. Dupe: Dupe: For a limited time, the first 10,000 people who go to https://Dupe.com/WEEKEND will instantly get 500 Dupe Points PDS Debt: Get your free assessment and find the best option for you right now at https://PDSDebt.com/WEEKEND. True Classic: You can find them at Amazon, Target, Costco, and Sam's Club, or head to https://TrueClassic.com/WEEKEND Independent media has never been more important. Please support this channel by subscribing here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkbwLFZhawBqK2b9gW08z3g?sub_confirmation=1 Join this channel with a membership for exclusive early access and bonus content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkbwLFZhawBqK2b9gW08z3g/join Five Minute News is an Evergreen Podcast, covering politics, inequality, health and climate - delivering independent, unbiased and essential news for the US and across the world. Visit us online at http://www.fiveminute.news Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/fiveminutenews.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram http://instagram.com/fiveminnews Support us on Patreon http://www.patreon.com/fiveminutenews You can subscribe to Five Minute News with your preferred podcast app, ask your smart speaker, or enable Five Minute News as your Amazon Alexa Flash Briefing skill. CONTENT DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed on this channel are those of the guests and authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Anthony Davis or Five Minute News LLC. Any content provided by our hosts, guests or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything, in line with the First Amendment right to free and protected speech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Trump's Christmas Greeting “Daddy's Home” an Authoritarian Warning? Trump's attacks on DEI in college admissions are likely to hurt men...Don't tell Trump's "boyz." Further evidence surfaces of the illegal murders off Venezuela and the pipe-bomb suspect turns out to be a Donald Trump supporter. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President Trump has grown even more authoritarian and bold with each passing day in his second term. With illegal strikes on boats and the pardon of the former Honduran president, it's clear that the administration is moving recklessly ahead with a dangerous agenda. So what can Congress do? And just as critically, what can every day citizens do to stem the tide of authoritarianism? Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon joins David Rothkopf to answer all these questions and more.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Original Air Date: 6–22-2020 Today we take a look at the history of racist policing which flows seamlessly into our present racist policing which itself flows into Trump's authoritarian glee at the opportunity to consolidate violent, racist power in response to protests against violent, racist power. Be part of the show! Leave us a message or text at 202-999-3991, message us on Signal at the handle bestoftheleft.01, or email Jay@BestOfTheLeft.com Full Show Notes Check out our new show, SOLVED! on YouTube! BestOfTheLeft.com/Support (Members Get Bonus Shows + No Ads!) SHOW NOTES American Police - Throughline - Air Date 6-4-20 From Slavery to George Floyd: The Racist History of U.S. Policing - Democracy Now - Air Date 6-10-20 Protests Sweep Across the Globe - The Daily Show - Air Date 6-9-20 The Truth: Police Are Lynching Black Americans! W/ Dr. Jhacova Williams, PhD - Thom Hartmann - Air Date 6-10-20 Why Ta-Nehisi Coates Is Hopeful - The Ezra Klein Show - Air Date 6-4-20 Unmasking The 'Outside Agitator' - Code Switch - Air Date 6-10-20 "Looting" Concerns Distract From Bureaucratic Violence Toward Black People - Democracy Now - Air Date 6-6-20 The Man Who Teaches Our Cops To Kill - Behind the Bastards - Air Date 6-1-20 Protests Sweep Across America and Beyond - The Daily Show - Air Date 6-9-20 Systemic Exhaustion - In The Thick - Air Date 6-10-20 The Rebellion in Defense of Black Lives Is Rooted in U.S. History, so Too Is Trump's Authoritarian Rule Part 1 - Intercepted - Air Date 6-3-20 Is This Trump's Reichstag Fire Moment? - Deconstructed with Mehdi Hasan - Air Date 6-4-20 The Military Stands Up To Trump - On the Media - Air Date 6-18-20 Produced by Jay! Tomlinson Visit us at BestOfTheLeft.com Listen Anywhere! BestOfTheLeft.com/Listen Listen Anywhere! Follow BotL: Bluesky | Mastodon | Threads | X