Podcasts about Hampshire College

As you may have heard in last week's episode, the Culture Gabfest is hanging up its microphones after 18 years of cultural commentary. But before our final episode, we've still got much to discuss!On this special guest-packed show, Steve, Dana, and Nadira Goffe have the power! That is the power to get into it with VSFOP Jamelle Bouie about Masters of the Universe, the latest attempt by Mattel to launch their own cinematic universe. They assess the state of IP-driven superhero movies and whether this newest entry—starring Nicholas Galitzine, as the buff, loin cloth-wearing He-Man, and Jared Leto, as the slightly lascivious Skeletor—is more than brand management.Next, they turn to the wild, surreal revenge thriller Is God Is, written and directed by Aleshea Harris based on her stageplay. They talk about how this tale of twin sisters seeking vengeance fits into the growing pantheon of Black horror as well as the ancient canon of revenge tragedies.Finally, and for the final time, it's time to talk about Taylor Swift. In the wake of her newest release, the song “I Knew It, I Knew You” for the Toy Story 5 soundtrack, the gang assembles one more time to take up the long-simmering Tay debate. Jody Rosen and Julia jump on the call/enter the Thunderdome for this, of course. In a bonus episode for Slate Plus subscribers, the panel pours one out for the recently shuttered Hampshire College and reflects on the changing landscape of the liberal arts.EndorsementsDana: The interactive, Jazz-playing, transit-obsessed, single purpose website Train Jazz. (Hat tip once more to Rusty Foster's Today in Tabs.)Nadira: The Black Film Archive which showcases Black films made from 1898 to 1999 currently streaming. Also, the year 2016 in music. Jody: For some Gabfest replacement therapy, watching academic lectures on YouTube such as the lectures of art historian John Walsh at Yale Art Galleries—including ones on Vincent Van Gogh and Dutch masters— and cultural historian Eric Lott on Racial Masquerade in America and Philippe Petit's legendary tightrope walk between the Twin Towers. Julia: Patrick Radden Keefe's new book London Falling and the song "Come Tomorrow" by Patti Scialfa.Steve: Following up on last week's endorsement, Steve can confirm that Disgrace by J.M. Coetzee is, in fact, good. Also recommended: Offshore by Penelope Fitzgerald. --Email us your thoughts at culturefest@slate.com. Podcast production by Benjamin Frisch. Production assistance by Daniel Hirsch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As you may have heard in last week's episode, the Culture Gabfest is hanging up its microphones after 18 years of cultural commentary. But before our final episode, we've still got much to discuss!On this special guest-packed show, Steve, Dana, and Nadira Goffe have the power! That is the power to get into it with VSFOP Jamelle Bouie about Masters of the Universe, the latest attempt by Mattel to launch their own cinematic universe. They assess the state of IP-driven superhero movies and whether this newest entry—starring Nicholas Galitzine, as the buff, loin cloth-wearing He-Man, and Jared Leto, as the slightly lascivious Skeletor—is more than brand management.Next, they turn to the wild, surreal revenge thriller Is God Is, written and directed by Aleshea Harris based on her stageplay. They talk about how this tale of twin sisters seeking vengeance fits into the growing pantheon of Black horror as well as the ancient canon of revenge tragedies.Finally, and for the final time, it's time to talk about Taylor Swift. In the wake of her newest release, the song “I Knew It, I Knew You” for the Toy Story 5 soundtrack, the gang assembles one more time to take up the long-simmering Tay debate. Jody Rosen and Julia jump on the call/enter the Thunderdome for this, of course. In a bonus episode for Slate Plus subscribers, the panel pours one out for the recently shuttered Hampshire College and reflects on the changing landscape of the liberal arts.EndorsementsDana: The interactive, Jazz-playing, transit-obsessed, single purpose website Train Jazz. (Hat tip once more to Rusty Foster's Today in Tabs.)Nadira: The Black Film Archive which showcases Black films made from 1898 to 1999 currently streaming. Also, the year 2016 in music. Jody: For some Gabfest replacement therapy, watching academic lectures on YouTube such as the lectures of art historian John Walsh at Yale Art Galleries—including ones on Vincent Van Gogh and Dutch masters— and cultural historian Eric Lott on Racial Masquerade in America and Philippe Petit's legendary tightrope walk between the Twin Towers. Julia: Patrick Radden Keefe's new book London Falling and the song "Come Tomorrow" by Patti Scialfa.Steve: Following up on last week's endorsement, Steve can confirm that Disgrace by J.M. Coetzee is, in fact, good. Also recommended: Offshore by Penelope Fitzgerald. --Email us your thoughts at culturefest@slate.com. Podcast production by Benjamin Frisch. Production assistance by Daniel Hirsch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

6/10/26: Host Brian Adams Amherst Town Councilor Lynn Griesemer: Budget, Overrides, Potholes & what to do with Hampshire College Cassandra Holden Founder & Executive Director of Bombyx in Florence: Arts, Equity, & Eclectic performances Jenny Green, Authenticity Chair of the Green Valley Homestead: dressing for the revolution, celebrating the 250th anniversary in style Cool Films w/ Larry Hott & Leslie Askew: In Search of Phyllis Wheatley, enslaved Genius Poet of the 18th century

A surprising pick to act as the nation's top intelligence official. President Trump signs a new executive order on A-I. In Western Massachusetts, remaining students at Hampshire College are getting some more bad news. Stay in "The Loop" with WBZ Newsradio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sven Davisson of Rebel Satori Press joins us to share his latest release, The United Rite. We also cover his upcoming oracle decks, the Press's latest releases, and what you can do to help save the legendary Hampshire College. https://rebelsatori.com/  http://www.wrotepodcast.com/sven-davisson-of-rebel-satori-press/  https://hampshirenext.org/

5/26/26 (Co-Host: Amilcar Shabazz) Amherst Town Manager Paul Bockelman: Hampshire College's closing—an update preserving services, school funding,layoffs? The Leslẽa Newman on “Rainbow Cookies” and “Something Sweet: A Sitting Shiva Story;” also, censorship, love, & her upcoming reading for kids & parents at High Five Books. Greenfield City Council President Lora Wondolowski: Greenfield is a happening place – Juneteenth & the Green River Festival; her job at the Peace Development Fund, public safety & balancing priorities. Sports historians Duke Goldman & Keith O'Brien (coming to Broadside) on his new book “Heartland: A Forgotten Place, An Impossible Dream, and the Miracle of Larry Bird.”

5/19/26 (Co-Host - Carrie Baker) Paradise City Arts Festival at the Fair Grounds this weekend—we visit with the show Director, Mariah Swanson—200+ artists and craftspersons, musicians (new, larger stages) and perfect weather for the show. Sci- Tech Café with MHC Prof Kerstin Norstrom & Hampshire Coll Ecology & Global Change Prof Jennifer Van Wyk: bees (gender is a social construct!), No Mow May, and bugs v insects. Also, Hampshire College's commencement and its closing. Comedy Quiz –on bugs and bees—with Happier Valley Comedy's Maddy Benjamin, Scott Braidman, Sally Ekus & special contestant Carrie Baker. Feminist Futures with Smith Coll Prof Carrie Baker. Carrie interviews Marianne Winters, Ex Dir of Safe Passage about the two recent domestic violence homicides in our community—at UMass and in Belchertown.

5/19/26 (Co-Host - Carrie Baker) Paradise City Arts Festival at the Fair Grounds this weekend—we visit with the show Director, Mariah Swanson—200+ artists and craftspersons, musicians (new, larger stages) and perfect weather for the show. Sci- Tech Café with MHC Prof Kerstin Norstrom & Hampshire Coll Ecology & Global Change Prof Jennifer Van Wyk: bees (gender is a social construct!), No Mow May, and bugs v insects. Also, Hampshire College's commencement and its closing. Comedy Quiz –on bugs and bees—with Happier Valley Comedy's Maddy Benjamin, Scott Braidman, Sally Ekus & special contestant Carrie Baker. Feminist Futures with Smith Coll Prof Carrie Baker. Carrie interviews Marianne Winters, Ex Dir of Safe Passage about the two recent domestic violence homicides in our community—at UMass and in Belchertown.

5/19/26 (Co-Host - Carrie Baker) Paradise City Arts Festival at the Fair Grounds this weekend—we visit with the show Director, Mariah Swanson—200+ artists and craftspersons, musicians (new, larger stages) and perfect weather for the show. Sci- Tech Café with MHC Prof Kerstin Norstrom & Hampshire Coll Ecology & Global Change Prof Jennifer Van Wyk: bees (gender is a social construct!), No Mow May, and bugs v insects. Also, Hampshire College's commencement and its closing. Comedy Quiz –on bugs and bees—with Happier Valley Comedy's Maddy Benjamin, Scott Braidman, Sally Ekus & special contestant Carrie Baker. Feminist Futures with Smith Coll Prof Carrie Baker. Carrie interviews Marianne Winters, Ex Dir of Safe Passage about the two recent domestic violence homicides in our community—at UMass and in Belchertown.

5/19/26 (Co-Host - Carrie Baker) Paradise City Arts Festival at the Fair Grounds this weekend—we visit with the show Director, Mariah Swanson—200+ artists and craftspersons, musicians (new, larger stages) and perfect weather for the show. Sci- Tech Café with MHC Prof Kerstin Norstrom & Hampshire Coll Ecology & Global Change Prof Jennifer Van Wyk: bees (gender is a social construct!), No Mow May, and bugs v insects. Also, Hampshire College's commencement and its closing. Comedy Quiz –on bugs and bees—with Happier Valley Comedy's Maddy Benjamin, Scott Braidman, Sally Ekus & special contestant Carrie Baker. Feminist Futures with Smith Coll Prof Carrie Baker. Carrie interviews Marianne Winters, Ex Dir of Safe Passage about the two recent domestic violence homicides in our community—at UMass and in Belchertown.

Anthony and Alex are back for another episode of Bollatta-FIDE. This week is an Artiest week. They sit down with Ben Betts! Ben is a multi-instrumentalist performer who blends live steel drum artistry, looping techniques, and DJ-style energy control to create a full entertainment experience from a single stage setup. Raised between the coasts of Florida and Maine, his sound is rooted in modern coastal rhythms with Caribbean influence, offering a sophisticated island aesthetic with a contemporary edge.With a background in Music & Sound Design (BFA, Hampshire College) and over a decade of live music experience, Ben approaches each event as a crafted performance—not just a setlist. Using steel drums, guitar, bass, vocals and live looping, he builds an evolving atmosphere that shifts seamlessly from ambient welcome music to feel-good cocktail vibes to high-energy party sets.With the versatility of a full band contained within a single, elegant setup, Ben adapts in real time to read the room, manage momentum, and elevate the energy of the event. His premium sound system setup can also transition into custom-curated DJ services in a fluid progression with no interruptions—a continuous, curated experience designed to enhance the tone, mood, and memory of your event.https://www.bollotta.com

5/15/26 (Co-Host Buz Eisenberg) MTA Pres Max Page: the banks' demands on Hampshire College and why it's closing, the MTA's position on overrides, and the MTA's newly-elected officers (Max is term limited). Amherst Coll Prof Austin Sarat: “ The Supreme Court's Takedown of American Democracy Is Complete.” And last night Texas executed its 600th person since the death penalty was reinstated—a person profoundly intellectually challenged. Rep Lindsay Sabadosa: the state budget—the good, the bad & the ugly, the Protect Act and bonding bills for the environment and economic development. Students from Mohawk Trail Regional interview Bill about radio and journalism. ArtBeat with Jason Montgomery (in for Donnabelle Casis) & Darrell Clemmer: “Small Scale, Epic World” at 50 Arrow Gallery in Easthampton.

5/15/26 (Co-Host Buz Eisenberg) MTA Pres Max Page: the banks' demands on Hampshire College and why it's closing, the MTA's position on overrides, and the MTA's newly-elected officers (Max is term limited). Amherst Coll Prof Austin Sarat: “ The Supreme Court's Takedown of American Democracy Is Complete.” And last night Texas executed its 600th person since the death penalty was reinstated—a person profoundly intellectually challenged. Rep Lindsay Sabadosa: the state budget—the good, the bad & the ugly, the Protect Act and bonding bills for the environment and economic development. Students from Mohawk Trail Regional interview Bill about radio and journalism. ArtBeat with Jason Montgomery (in for Donnabelle Casis) & Darrell Clemmer: “Small Scale, Epic World” at 50 Arrow Gallery in Easthampton.

5/15/26 (Co-Host Buz Eisenberg) MTA Pres Max Page: the banks' demands on Hampshire College and why it's closing, the MTA's position on overrides, and the MTA's newly-elected officers (Max is term limited). Amherst Coll Prof Austin Sarat: “ The Supreme Court's Takedown of American Democracy Is Complete.” And last night Texas executed its 600th person since the death penalty was reinstated—a person profoundly intellectually challenged. Rep Lindsay Sabadosa: the state budget—the good, the bad & the ugly, the Protect Act and bonding bills for the environment and economic development. Students from Mohawk Trail Regional interview Bill about radio and journalism. ArtBeat with Jason Montgomery (in for Donnabelle Casis) & Darrell Clemmer: “Small Scale, Epic World” at 50 Arrow Gallery in Easthampton.

5/15/26 (Co-Host Buz Eisenberg) MTA Pres Max Page: the banks' demands on Hampshire College and why it's closing, the MTA's position on overrides, and the MTA's newly-elected officers (Max is term limited). Amherst Coll Prof Austin Sarat: “ The Supreme Court's Takedown of American Democracy Is Complete.” And last night Texas executed its 600th person since the death penalty was reinstated—a person profoundly intellectually challenged. Rep Lindsay Sabadosa: the state budget—the good, the bad & the ugly, the Protect Act and bonding bills for the environment and economic development. Students from Mohawk Trail Regional interview Bill about radio and journalism. ArtBeat with Jason Montgomery (in for Donnabelle Casis) & Darrell Clemmer: “Small Scale, Epic World” at 50 Arrow Gallery in Easthampton.

5/15/26 (Co-Host Buz Eisenberg) MTA Pres Max Page: the banks' demands on Hampshire College and why it's closing, the MTA's position on overrides, and the MTA's newly-elected officers (Max is term limited). Amherst Coll Prof Austin Sarat: “ The Supreme Court's Takedown of American Democracy Is Complete.” And last night Texas executed its 600th person since the death penalty was reinstated—a person profoundly intellectually challenged. Rep Lindsay Sabadosa: the state budget—the good, the bad & the ugly, the Protect Act and bonding bills for the environment and economic development. Students from Mohawk Trail Regional interview Bill about radio and journalism. ArtBeat with Jason Montgomery (in for Donnabelle Casis) & Darrell Clemmer: “Small Scale, Epic World” at 50 Arrow Gallery in Easthampton.

5/13/26 (Co-Host Brian Adams) Lynn Griesemer, Amherst Town Councilor: Hampshire College's closing -- what we know and when we know it and maybe a silver lining for the town? Emily Boddy & Laura Erny, from ReConnect Western MA: “Digital Delusions—How Classroom Technology Harms Our Kids.” Darcy DuMont & Paul Fenn, founder & Pres of Local Power: The green energy you think you've been buying isn't green—sorry; and more nukes?—sorry again. Larry Hott & Raeshma Razvi, from Mass Humanities: “ A People's Guide to the Revolution” -- aspiration, inspiration and reality.

While Evan's away, Hannah reflects on the announcement that Hampshire College, an unconventional school founded in the 1970s, is closing its doors. It was flawed, idealistic, and not always what was promised. But it was a special place that encouraged weirdos to be weird, and paved our own winding path to game design. Hampshire College Workers' Emergency Relief Fund Help Hampshire workers faced with sudden job loss: https://www.helphampshireworkers.com/ https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/hampshire-college-workers-emergency-relief-fund Turtlebun Links Turtlebun Discord:⁠⁠ ⁠https://discord.gg/ajP36nzPb2⁠⁠⁠ Turtlebun on Patreon:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.patreon.com/turtlebun⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Turtlebun webstore:⁠⁠ ⁠https://turtlebun.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Credits Design Doc intro/outro theme by ipaghost:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.ipaghost.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Episodes edited by Rob Abrazado:⁠⁠ ⁠https://robabrazado.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get in touch Designdocpod (at) gmail (dot) com Instagram:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/turtleandbun⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Bluesky:⁠⁠ ⁠https://bsky.app/profile/turtlebun.com⁠⁠⁠

5/4/26 (co-host MHC Prof Kerstin Nordstrom) Amherst School Super Dr Xiomara Herman: budgets, priorities, special ed & EVs. Why It's Gotta Be theater group's Devin Dumas(Director) & Julia Adamo (actor) on “Legoland”-a dark comedy, coming to Easthampton's City Space. Kirsten interviews Bill on “Naming Truth's Way,” Bill interviews Kirsten on Hampshire College's closing—its effect on MHC. N'hmptn Mayor Gina Lousie Sciarra: Hampshire Pride & a new school superintendent.

5/4/26 (co-host MHC Prof Kerstin Nordstrom) Amherst School Super Dr Xiomara Herman: budgets, priorities, special ed & EVs. Why It's Gotta Be theater group's Devin Dumas(Director) & Julia Adamo (actor) on “Legoland”-a dark comedy, coming to Easthampton's City Space. Kirsten interviews Bill on “Naming Truth's Way,” Bill interviews Kirsten on Hampshire College's closing—its effect on MHC. N'hmptn Mayor Gina Lousie Sciarra: Hampshire Pride & a new school superintendent.

5/4/26 (co-host MHC Prof Kerstin Nordstrom) Amherst School Super Dr Xiomara Herman: budgets, priorities, special ed & EVs. Why It's Gotta Be theater group's Devin Dumas(Director) & Julia Adamo (actor) on “Legoland”-a dark comedy, coming to Easthampton's City Space. Kirsten interviews Bill on “Naming Truth's Way,” Bill interviews Kirsten on Hampshire College's closing—its effect on MHC. N'hmptn Mayor Gina Lousie Sciarra: Hampshire Pride & a new school superintendent.

5/4/26 (co-host MHC Prof Kerstin Nordstrom) Amherst School Super Dr Xiomara Herman: budgets, priorities, special ed & EVs. Why It's Gotta Be theater group's Devin Dumas(Director) & Julia Adamo (actor) on “Legoland”-a dark comedy, coming to Easthampton's City Space. Kirsten interviews Bill on “Naming Truth's Way,” Bill interviews Kirsten on Hampshire College's closing—its effect on MHC. N'hmptn Mayor Gina Lousie Sciarra: Hampshire Pride & a new school superintendent.

5/4/26 (co-host MHC Prof Kerstin Nordstrom) Amherst School Super Dr Xiomara Herman: budgets, priorities, special ed & EVs. Why It's Gotta Be theater group's Devin Dumas(Director) & Julia Adamo (actor) on “Legoland”-a dark comedy, coming to Easthampton's City Space. Kirsten interviews Bill on “Naming Truth's Way,” Bill interviews Kirsten on Hampshire College's closing—its effect on MHC. N'hmptn Mayor Gina Lousie Sciarra: Hampshire Pride & a new school superintendent.

Plus: His Crazy Car Accident, Comic Books, Letters From Prison, Hegseth, Hampshire College Closing and More! Comedians are under attack. The MAGA machine has pushed Stephen Colbert off the air, gone after Jimmy Kimmel, and skipped a comedian at the White House Correspondents Dinner for the first time in memory. That's not an accident — it's the playbook of every authoritarian regime that ever feared a punchline. Paul Rieckhoff sits down with his old college friend, beloved comedian and actor Eugene Mirman — Bob's Burgers, Flight of the Conchords, and the new special Here Comes the Whimsy — for a candid, funny, and unexpectedly moving conversation about what it means to make people laugh while the rigged two-party system burns and Trump and the executive branch goes all gas, no brakes. Eugene, a refugee from a genuinely authoritarian country, doesn't sugarcoat it: Trump's instincts are fascist, the cruelty is the point, and the use of state power to threaten billion-dollar companies into firing comedians is straight out of the thug-regime handbook. But he also refuses nihilism — America, he argues, is too big and too used to freedom to be wholly silenced, and that's exactly why the work of comedians, podcasters, and independent voices matters right now. Along the way the two cover Eugene's harrowing New Hampshire car crash and rescue, the absurd unqualified men running the Pentagon and the VP's office, comic books as hopeful dystopia, and why the angry middle should keep laughing — and keep showing up. Eugene Mirman is one of the most respected comedic voices of his generation. A refugee from the former Soviet Union, he is best known as the voice of Gene Belcher on Bob's Burgers and as the landlord on Flight of the Conchords, and was a regular on Adult Swim's Delocated. He co-founded the Pretty Good Friends comedy company in the basement of Brooklyn's Union Hall, has opened for The Shins, Modest Mouse, Yo La Tengo, Gogol Bordello, and Cake, and was named best New York City comedian by The Village Voice. A graduate of Hampshire College — where he designed his own major in comedy and delivered a one-hour stand-up set as his thesis — his latest special is Here Comes the Whimsy. -WATCH full video of this episode here. -Watch/hear Eugene Mirman's hilarious new special album: Here Comes the Whimsy. -Check out Eugene's Pretty Good Friends.  -Ditch your expensive carrier and support Independent Americans! Make the switch to Noble Mobile. -Join IVA and stand up to Trump's Forever Wars. -Learn more about Paul's work to elect a new generation of independent leaders with Independent Veterans of America. -Learn more about American Veterans for Ukraine here. -Remember Independent is an Attitude. -Learn more about The Headstrong Project for Veterans, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), and Department of Veterans Affairs resources in your area. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness. It's a show of strength. If you or a loved one are in immediate crisis, dial 988 and press 1, or text 838255. Connect with Independent Americans: Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all podcast platforms Read more at Substack Support ad-free episodes at Patreon  Connect: Instagram  • X/Twitter • BlueSky • Facebook  Follow on social: @PaulRieckhoff on X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky -Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  -And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch now in time for the new year.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media.  And now part of the BLEAV network!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hyperlocal 4/24/26: (Co-host Buz Eisenberg): MTA Pres Max Page: bell to bell cell phone bans & controlling exploitive social media. Rep Mindy Domb: a violent death at UMass & Hampshire College's closing. UMass Professor of Chinese History & Guggenheim Fellow (& NHS grad) Stephen Platt. Fishwrap on Ruth Suyenaga's powerful DHG and Recorder piece on ICE and internment camps. Donnabelle Casis' ArtBeat: the Easthampton Film Festival.

Hyperlocal 4/24/26: (Co-host Buz Eisenberg): MTA Pres Max Page: bell to bell cell phone bans & controlling exploitive social media. Rep Mindy Domb: a violent death at UMass & Hampshire College's closing. UMass Professor of Chinese History & Guggenheim Fellow (& NHS grad) Stephen Platt. Fishwrap on Ruth Suyenaga's powerful DHG and Recorder piece on ICE and internment camps. Donnabelle Casis' ArtBeat: the Easthampton Film Festival.

Hyperlocal 4/24/26: (Co-host Buz Eisenberg): MTA Pres Max Page: bell to bell cell phone bans & controlling exploitive social media. Rep Mindy Domb: a violent death at UMass & Hampshire College's closing. UMass Professor of Chinese History & Guggenheim Fellow (& NHS grad) Stephen Platt. Fishwrap on Ruth Suyenaga's powerful DHG and Recorder piece on ICE and internment camps. Donnabelle Casis' ArtBeat: the Easthampton Film Festival.

Hyperlocal 4/24/26: (Co-host Buz Eisenberg): MTA Pres Max Page: bell to bell cell phone bans & controlling exploitive social media. Rep Mindy Domb: a violent death at UMass & Hampshire College's closing. UMass Professor of Chinese History & Guggenheim Fellow (& NHS grad) Stephen Platt. Fishwrap on Ruth Suyenaga's powerful DHG and Recorder piece on ICE and internment camps. Donnabelle Casis' ArtBeat: the Easthampton Film Festival.

Hyperlocal 4/24/26: (Co-host Buz Eisenberg): MTA Pres Max Page: bell to bell cell phone bans & controlling exploitive social media. Rep Mindy Domb: a violent death at UMass & Hampshire College's closing. UMass Professor of Chinese History & Guggenheim Fellow (& NHS grad) Stephen Platt. Fishwrap on Ruth Suyenaga's powerful DHG and Recorder piece on ICE and internment camps. Donnabelle Casis' ArtBeat: the Easthampton Film Festival.

Hampshire College's closure is the latest sign of a death spiral in American higher education. This episode was produced by Dustin DeSoto, edited by Avishay Artsy, fact checked by Gabriel Dunatov, engineered by David Tatasciore, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram. The campus of Hampshire College in Amherst, Mass. AP Photos/Leah Willingham. Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. New Vox members get $20 off their membership right now. Transcript at ⁠vox.com/today-explained-podcast.⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The landscape for federal TRIO programs has shifted dramatically since we talked about it in January. The Department of Education (ED) has issued new grant proposals that would cut the number of programs by more than half and fundamentally redirect TRIO away from its mission of college access.  We welcomed back Kimberly Jones, president of the Council for Opportunity in Education, to walk us through what's at stake for these programs and the students they serve. The hosts also give the latest updates on ED's negotiated rulemaking. Links:  U.S. Department of Education Issues Proposed Rule to Hold Colleges and Universities Accountable for Low Earning Outcomes  https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-issues-proposed-rule-hold-colleges-and-universities-accountable-low-earning-outcomes ED Pushes Ahead on Accreditation Overhaul Despite Negotiator Pushback  https://www.acenet.edu/News-Room/Pages/ED-Pushes-Ahead-on-Accreditation-Overhaul.aspx Accreditation discussion draft https://www.ed.gov/media/document/2026-negotiated-rulemaking-aim-aim-draft-regulations-version-11-updated-04172026-113722.pdf Agency Information Collection Activities; Comment Request; Foreign Gifts and Contracts Disclosures  Federal Register | April 15, 2026 https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/04/15/2026-07304/agency-information-collection-activities-comment-request-foreign-gifts-and-contracts-disclosures What drove Hampshire College to shutter, despite raising $55 million  The Christian Science Monitor | April 18, 2026 https://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Education/2026/0418/hampshire-college-closure-endowment Council for Opportunity in Education and TRIO Programs https://coenet.org/coe-and-trio-programs/ COE Trio Advocacy https://coenet.org/take-action-now/ The Council for Opportunity in Education Condemns Latest TRIO Grant Proposal, Calls It "Direct Assault on College Access" https://coenet.org/news-impact/press-release/the-council-for-opportunity-in-education-condemns-latest-trio-grant-proposal-calls-it-direct-assault-on-college-access/ COE Blasts Latest Federal Proposal for TRIO, Calls for Immediate Rescission https://coenet.org/news-impact/press-release/coe-blasts-latest-federal-proposal-for-trio-calls-for-immediate-rescission/ COE Rejects Proposal to Eliminate Federal TRIO Programs in FY 2027 Budget  Council for Opportunity in Education | https://coenet.org/news-impact/press-release/coe-rejects-proposal-to-eliminate-federal-trio-programs-in-fy-2027-budget/

On today's episode, we discuss the fast‑moving Iran crisis as Trump orders a global interdiction of “ghost ships,” tightens the naval blockade, and publicly warns Tehran that time is running out to accept a cease‑fire before the U.S. escalates to far more punishing strikes. James and Dwayne unpack reports of a U.S. battleship deliberately putting a shell through an Iranian‑flagged freighter's engine room—then boarding it by helicopter—and debate whether miscommunications like “clear” versus “clear the engine room” should matter once a sanctioned vessel ignores repeated radio warnings. They zoom out to ask whether Trump's hard line is about stopping Iran's nuclear ambitions, training Europe to take war seriously, or quietly proving that NATO is a one‑way money sink the U.S. should radically shrink or replace. In the domestic sphere, the crew ties AI‑driven layoffs and failing progressive experiments—such as New York's slow‑rolling “free” grocery stores and the collapse of ultra‑woke Hampshire College—into a broader argument that elite policies are colliding with economic and political reality, with Trump's popularity rising precisely because he's willing to break those sacred cows. Don't miss it!

Tom gives us two examples as to why Hampshire College is closing down, and then he talks more about Granny Warren's trip to Maine.  Visit the Howie Carr Radio Network website to access columns, podcasts, and other exclusive content.

After years of financial decline, Hampshire College, a liberal arts college in Massachusetts, has announced it will close at the end of the year. But the college is hardly alone. A new estimate projects that nearly 450 of the nation's 1,700 private, nonprofit colleges and universities are at risk of closing or having to merge within the next decade. Geoff Bennett discussed more with Jon Marcus. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

On today's episode, we discuss Glenn's first real road trip in his new Cybertruck “Cyber Beast,” including Tesla's self‑driving calmly threading Dallas construction traffic, auto‑rerouting around closed interchanges, and ultra‑fast Level 3–4 charging that turned a Plano run into what he calls “magical” hands‑off driving. That leads into a broader tech chat about EV range anxiety, why onboard solar skins can't yet keep up with real‑time driving loads, and how future wireless charging tunnels (like the Las Vegas loop concept) might quietly top off batteries in motion. Mark then shifts the focus to Bitcoin and crypto, explaining why institutional money, new ETFs from big Wall Street firms, Abu Dhabi sovereign funds, and halving‑driven supply limits have him expecting “explosive” upside in Bitcoin while alt‑coins like XRP mostly move in “sympathy demand” rather than true fundamentals. The crew also talks about the massive Meta data‑center build‑out at Holly Ridge and Entergy's bid to expand from three to ten gas turbines, arguing that Trump‑era rules forcing data centers to supply their own power are turning north Louisiana into an energy hub that will serve both Meta and the wider grid. From there, they tackle the AI jobs shock, citing layoffs like Snapchat cutting 60% of staff and framing it as the latest round of creative destruction—akin to horses giving way to Model T's—where free‑market efficiency hurts individual workers in the short term but ultimately creates new roles, often for contractors solving the problems automation introduces. In the closing stretch, Dwayne and Mark describe the Iran conflict as the first true “AI‑guided war” with precision bombing, minesweeping, and drone swarms reducing the need for U.S. “boots on the ground,” while James rips New York's $30‑million “free grocery store” plan and cheers the quiet death of ultra‑woke Hampshire College as signs that some expensive progressive experiments are finally bumping into economic reality. Don't miss it!

A Taxing Show 4/15/26: Bill & Brian on Hampshire College Closing after 56 years – sad ending Reader to Reader w/ David Mazor: Saturday's book drive for young readers—can you help? Northampton attorneys David Hoose & Ryan Shiff: the Anthony Baye arson case & reasons for release. ServiceNet's Shawn Robinson & Maribeth Ritchie: amazing farms & farming. Larry Hott w/ Issac Solotaroff:”Born to Bowl” -- funny and fantastic.

In our news wrap Tuesday, the Justice Department asked a federal appeals court to throw out the Jan. 6 seditious conspiracy convictions of Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, Super Typhoon Sinlaku battered a group of U.S. islands in the Pacific, Gaza health officials say Israeli strikes killed at least six people and Hampshire College is closing due to financial problems and low enrollment. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

In our news wrap Tuesday, the Justice Department asked a federal appeals court to throw out the Jan. 6 seditious conspiracy convictions of Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, Super Typhoon Sinlaku battered a group of U.S. islands in the Pacific, Gaza health officials say Israeli strikes killed at least six people and Hampshire College is closing due to financial problems and low enrollment. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

President Trump says a second round of talks with Iran could come within days. The IMF warns of a global recession caused by the war. Hampshire College will soon shut down for good. Stay in "The Loop" with WBZ NewsRadio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guests: Adriana Monsalve and Unique RobinsonHost:  Christopher KardambikisRecorded on February 6, 2026 in Takoma Park, MDThis is the first of three episodes focusing on the recent publication: Even the Score, guest edited by Lindsay Buchman and published by Homie House Press.Adriana Monsalve – (they/she) is an artist, educator, cultural worker and collaborative publisher working (mostly) in the photobook medium. Along with Caterina Ragg, Monsalve is co-founder of Homie House Press, a radical cooperative platform that challenges the ever-changing forms of storytelling with image and text. Within her photographic practice, Monsalve is an archivist and visual communicator who produces in-depth stories on identity through the nuances in between race, gender, and immigrant adjacent experiences.Within her cultural work as a collaborative publisher, she holds space for and with underrepresented communities through the multidisciplinary platform of Homie House Press (HHP); a cooperative playground where fotos become books, a safe space for secret stories and an open house for honest content that meets at the intersection of personal, political, and poetic. She is rigorously pushing towards finding ways for photographers and publishers to cultivate the capacity for care and tenderness within structures that actively work against their manifestations. She defines intimacy as the experience of being genuinely seen, heard, and held by another person or group of people.Unique Robinson is a poet/MC, professor, community educator, host, and proud Baltimore native. She received her MFA in English/Creative Writing from Mills College, and a BA in Creative Writing/Black Studies from Hampshire College. Unique has a background in Community Organizing and national Reproductive Justice work, and is a lifelong artivist, with 20+ years of performance experience throughout the US and Havana, Cuba. Through writing and performance, she consistently works within communities to promote change and collective healing through creativity. Locally, Unique has worked as a Poetry Teaching Artist, and in administrative roles for various organizations, including DewMore Baltimore, AFRO Charities, & The Lyric Baltimore. Unique received the Emerging Teaching Artist award from Arts Every Day in 2017, The Grit Fund Grant in 2019, and a Lab410 Fellowship with Baltimore Center Stage in 2025. She was the cover feature for Baltimore Magazine's GameChangers in 2022, and a Baker Artist Awards Finalist in 2025. Unique is the Director of MICA's MFA Community Arts Program, and the facilitator for The LightHouse, a FREE monthly writing workshop at Motor House for intergenerational communities. Unique has also facilitated arts education literary programming for Baltimore Museum of Art, American Visionary Art Museum, and has been the Curator for The Walters Art Museum's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration for three consecutive years (2024-2026). Unique has released a variety of zines, short films, and musical projects available on online/streaming platforms. Her latest book of poetry, (not) in service, published by homie house press, was released in 2024.Episode artwork by Homie House Press“Paper Cuts Theme” by The Early@theearly_band // http://theearly.net

A Pittsfield manufacturer has more than $5 million in contracts with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. State leaders and activists are urging the company to reconsider more collaborations with ICE. Hampshire College is at risk of losing its accreditation due to financial issues and declining enrollment. Does the institution have a future? And this year marks the 20th anniversary of the landmark healthcare legislation known as Romneycare! It's all on our Massachusetts news roundtable!

2.3.26 State Senator Paul Mark—Money, Healthcare, 250th celebration, & the Pats Super. Dr Xiomara Herman—Pelham Schools, Difficult Days Ahead Hampshire College President Jennifer Chrisler--Financial Sustainability & the Future Carole Bull-Do something! The journey of healing

Overturning Roe unleashed a wave of urgent threats to abortion and bodily autonomy, fueled by overt white supremacy, racial and anti-immigrant hatred, and support for traditional gender roles and sexual identities. But the resistance is fierce, led by a new generation of activists of color dedicated to building an inclusive movement. In Abortion and Reproductive Justice: An Essential Guide for Resistance, widely recognized movement leaders Marlene Gerber Fried and Loretta J. Ross provide a history of abortion politics through a reproductive justice framework that centers those most vulnerable.The book emphasizes that the right to have and raise children is as important for reproductive choice as the right not to. This critical approach—originating in Black feminism—provides grounding for radical abortion advocacy. Calling on us to join in, the book highlights abortion stories from individuals and organizations who are putting this analysis into action on the front lines, in the United States and beyond. By linking abortion rights to broader social justice initiatives, including Black Lives Matter, immigrant and refugee rights, disability justice, and LGBTQ+ rights, the authors expand the conversation at a critical moment. Our guest is: Dr. Marlene Gerber Fried, who is professor emerita at Hampshire College. Her scholarship and teaching focuses on abortion rights and access, reproductive and sexual rights and health, and legal theory. Her honors include the Felicia Stewart Advocacy Award, and the Warrior Women Award from SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective. Our guest is: Dr. Loretta J. Ross, who is an activist, public intellectual, and Associate Professor of the Study of Women & Gender at Smith College. Her co-authored books include Calling In, Abortion and Reproductive Justice, and Women Who Change the World. She has also published numerous articles and book chapters. Find more here: Loretta Ross Papers. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who is an academic writing coach and editor. She is the creator and producer of the Academic Life podcast, and writes the show's newsletter at ChristinaGessler.Substack.com. Playlist for listeners: The Turnaway Study You're Doing It Wrong Womanist Bioethics How to Organize Inclusive Events and Conferences How We Show Up Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! You help support the show by downloading and sharing episodes. Please join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 300+ Academic Life episodes? Find them here. And thank you for listening! 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

Overturning Roe unleashed a wave of urgent threats to abortion and bodily autonomy, fueled by overt white supremacy, racial and anti-immigrant hatred, and support for traditional gender roles and sexual identities. But the resistance is fierce, led by a new generation of activists of color dedicated to building an inclusive movement. In Abortion and Reproductive Justice: An Essential Guide for Resistance, widely recognized movement leaders Marlene Gerber Fried and Loretta J. Ross provide a history of abortion politics through a reproductive justice framework that centers those most vulnerable.The book emphasizes that the right to have and raise children is as important for reproductive choice as the right not to. This critical approach—originating in Black feminism—provides grounding for radical abortion advocacy. Calling on us to join in, the book highlights abortion stories from individuals and organizations who are putting this analysis into action on the front lines, in the United States and beyond. By linking abortion rights to broader social justice initiatives, including Black Lives Matter, immigrant and refugee rights, disability justice, and LGBTQ+ rights, the authors expand the conversation at a critical moment. Our guest is: Dr. Marlene Gerber Fried, who is professor emerita at Hampshire College. Her scholarship and teaching focuses on abortion rights and access, reproductive and sexual rights and health, and legal theory. Her honors include the Felicia Stewart Advocacy Award, and the Warrior Women Award from SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective. Our guest is: Dr. Loretta J. Ross, who is an activist, public intellectual, and Associate Professor of the Study of Women & Gender at Smith College. Her co-authored books include Calling In, Abortion and Reproductive Justice, and Women Who Change the World. She has also published numerous articles and book chapters. Find more here: Loretta Ross Papers. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who is an academic writing coach and editor. She is the creator and producer of the Academic Life podcast, and writes the show's newsletter at ChristinaGessler.Substack.com. Playlist for listeners: The Turnaway Study You're Doing It Wrong Womanist Bioethics How to Organize Inclusive Events and Conferences How We Show Up Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! You help support the show by downloading and sharing episodes. Please join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 300+ Academic Life episodes? Find them here. And thank you for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/gender-studies

Overturning Roe unleashed a wave of urgent threats to abortion and bodily autonomy, fueled by overt white supremacy, racial and anti-immigrant hatred, and support for traditional gender roles and sexual identities. But the resistance is fierce, led by a new generation of activists of color dedicated to building an inclusive movement. In Abortion and Reproductive Justice: An Essential Guide for Resistance, widely recognized movement leaders Marlene Gerber Fried and Loretta J. Ross provide a history of abortion politics through a reproductive justice framework that centers those most vulnerable.The book emphasizes that the right to have and raise children is as important for reproductive choice as the right not to. This critical approach—originating in Black feminism—provides grounding for radical abortion advocacy. Calling on us to join in, the book highlights abortion stories from individuals and organizations who are putting this analysis into action on the front lines, in the United States and beyond. By linking abortion rights to broader social justice initiatives, including Black Lives Matter, immigrant and refugee rights, disability justice, and LGBTQ+ rights, the authors expand the conversation at a critical moment. Our guest is: Dr. Marlene Gerber Fried, who is professor emerita at Hampshire College. Her scholarship and teaching focuses on abortion rights and access, reproductive and sexual rights and health, and legal theory. Her honors include the Felicia Stewart Advocacy Award, and the Warrior Women Award from SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective. Our guest is: Dr. Loretta J. Ross, who is an activist, public intellectual, and Associate Professor of the Study of Women & Gender at Smith College. Her co-authored books include Calling In, Abortion and Reproductive Justice, and Women Who Change the World. She has also published numerous articles and book chapters. Find more here: Loretta Ross Papers. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who is an academic writing coach and editor. She is the creator and producer of the Academic Life podcast, and writes the show's newsletter at ChristinaGessler.Substack.com. Playlist for listeners: The Turnaway Study You're Doing It Wrong Womanist Bioethics How to Organize Inclusive Events and Conferences How We Show Up Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! You help support the show by downloading and sharing episodes. Please join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 300+ Academic Life episodes? Find them here. And thank you for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/academic-life

Overturning Roe unleashed a wave of urgent threats to abortion and bodily autonomy, fueled by overt white supremacy, racial and anti-immigrant hatred, and support for traditional gender roles and sexual identities. But the resistance is fierce, led by a new generation of activists of color dedicated to building an inclusive movement. In Abortion and Reproductive Justice: An Essential Guide for Resistance, widely recognized movement leaders Marlene Gerber Fried and Loretta J. Ross provide a history of abortion politics through a reproductive justice framework that centers those most vulnerable.The book emphasizes that the right to have and raise children is as important for reproductive choice as the right not to. This critical approach—originating in Black feminism—provides grounding for radical abortion advocacy. Calling on us to join in, the book highlights abortion stories from individuals and organizations who are putting this analysis into action on the front lines, in the United States and beyond. By linking abortion rights to broader social justice initiatives, including Black Lives Matter, immigrant and refugee rights, disability justice, and LGBTQ+ rights, the authors expand the conversation at a critical moment. Our guest is: Dr. Marlene Gerber Fried, who is professor emerita at Hampshire College. Her scholarship and teaching focuses on abortion rights and access, reproductive and sexual rights and health, and legal theory. Her honors include the Felicia Stewart Advocacy Award, and the Warrior Women Award from SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective. Our guest is: Dr. Loretta J. Ross, who is an activist, public intellectual, and Associate Professor of the Study of Women & Gender at Smith College. Her co-authored books include Calling In, Abortion and Reproductive Justice, and Women Who Change the World. She has also published numerous articles and book chapters. Find more here: Loretta Ross Papers. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who is an academic writing coach and editor. She is the creator and producer of the Academic Life podcast, and writes the show's newsletter at ChristinaGessler.Substack.com. Playlist for listeners: The Turnaway Study You're Doing It Wrong Womanist Bioethics How to Organize Inclusive Events and Conferences How We Show Up Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! You help support the show by downloading and sharing episodes. Please join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 300+ Academic Life episodes? Find them here. And thank you for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Overturning Roe unleashed a wave of urgent threats to abortion and bodily autonomy, fueled by overt white supremacy, racial and anti-immigrant hatred, and support for traditional gender roles and sexual identities. But the resistance is fierce, led by a new generation of activists of color dedicated to building an inclusive movement. In Abortion and Reproductive Justice: An Essential Guide for Resistance, widely recognized movement leaders Marlene Gerber Fried and Loretta J. Ross provide a history of abortion politics through a reproductive justice framework that centers those most vulnerable.The book emphasizes that the right to have and raise children is as important for reproductive choice as the right not to. This critical approach—originating in Black feminism—provides grounding for radical abortion advocacy. Calling on us to join in, the book highlights abortion stories from individuals and organizations who are putting this analysis into action on the front lines, in the United States and beyond. By linking abortion rights to broader social justice initiatives, including Black Lives Matter, immigrant and refugee rights, disability justice, and LGBTQ+ rights, the authors expand the conversation at a critical moment. Our guest is: Dr. Marlene Gerber Fried, who is professor emerita at Hampshire College. Her scholarship and teaching focuses on abortion rights and access, reproductive and sexual rights and health, and legal theory. Her honors include the Felicia Stewart Advocacy Award, and the Warrior Women Award from SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective. Our guest is: Dr. Loretta J. Ross, who is an activist, public intellectual, and Associate Professor of the Study of Women & Gender at Smith College. Her co-authored books include Calling In, Abortion and Reproductive Justice, and Women Who Change the World. She has also published numerous articles and book chapters. Find more here: Loretta Ross Papers. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who is an academic writing coach and editor. She is the creator and producer of the Academic Life podcast, and writes the show's newsletter at ChristinaGessler.Substack.com. Playlist for listeners: The Turnaway Study You're Doing It Wrong Womanist Bioethics How to Organize Inclusive Events and Conferences How We Show Up Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! You help support the show by downloading and sharing episodes. Please join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 300+ Academic Life episodes? Find them here. And thank you for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's show, I have two great guests joining me. The legend Michael Ian Black comes on at about one hour and 12 minutes but before that at 49 minutes, I speak with Venezuela expert and NYU historian Dr. Alejandro Velasco.   Subscribe and Watch Interviews LIVE : On YOUTUBE.com/StandUpWithPete ON SubstackStandUpWithPete   Stand Up is a daily podcast. I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. This show is Ad free and fully supported by listeners like you!   Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 750 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous soul Michael Ian Black is a multi-media talent who's starred in numerous films and TV series, written and/or directed two films, is a prolific author and commentator, and regularly tours the country performing his ribald brand of jokes and observations.  Subscribe to his substack       Support him on Patreon He most recently starred in TVLand's "The Jim Gaffigan Show" and Comedy Central's "Another Period." He also reprised one of his iconic film roles in Netflix's "Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later," and previously in "Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp." His third standup comedy special, "Noted Expert," was released on Epix. Black's authored 11 books, including the recently released best seller, "A Child's First Book of Trump." He's written two well-received memoirs: "Navel Gazing: True Tales of Bodies, Mostly Mine (but also my mom's, which I know sounds weird)", and "You're Not Doing It Right: Tales of Marriage, Sex, Death and Other Humiliations." In 2012, he collaborated with conservative Meghan McCain on "America, You Sexy Bitch: A Love Letter to Freedom." He's the author of "My Custom Van (and 50 Other Mind-Blowing Essays That Will Blow Your Mind All Over Your Face)," and seven children's books, including "Cock-a-Doodle-Doo-Bop!," "Naked", "Chicken Cheeks," "The Purple Kangaroo," "A Pig Parade Is A Terrible Idea" and "I'm Bored." He also writes book reviews for the New York Times. Previously, Black released two stand-up specials, "Very Famous" and "I Am A Wonderful Man." He and Tom Cavanagh host the popular podcast, "Mike and Tom Eat Snacks." He also writes and hosts a podcast with Michael Showalter, "Topics," and his own interview podcast, "How To Be Amazing." He hosts "Debate Wars" on SeeSo, and he recently hosted "Easiest Game Show Ever" on Pop TV. Sketch comedy fans know Black's work on "The State," "Viva Variety," "Stella" and "Michael and Michael Have Issues" all of which he co-created, wrote and starred in. Other TV credits include quirky bowling alley manager 'Phil' on the NBC series "Ed," and his hilarious commentary on cable's "I Love the..." series. He recently starred in two hit web series that migrated to cable TV: "Burning Love" on E! and "You're Whole" on Adult Swim. Black's movie roles include "Slash," "Smosh: The Movie," "They Came Together," "Hell Baby," "This is 40," "Wet Hot American Summer," "Take Me Home Tonight," "Reno 911!: Miami," "The Ten" and "The Baxter." Black wrote and directed the film "Wedding Daze," starring Jason Biggs and Isla Fisher. He also co-wrote the comedy "Run, Fatboy, Run," directed by David Schwimmer and starring Simon Pegg, Hank Azaria and Thandie Newton.  ___________________________________________________________ Alejandro Velasco holds joint appointments in the Gallatin School and the Department of History, and was Executive Editor of the NACLA Report on the Americas from 2015 to 2021. Before NYU, he taught at Hampshire College, where he was Five College Fellow, and at Duke University. His research in the areas of social movements, urban politics, and democratization has won support from the Social Science Research Council, the Ford and Mellon Foundations, and the American Historical Association, among others, and has appeared in journals including the Hispanic American Historical Review, the Latin American Research Review, Labor, and others. Velasco's first book Barrio Rising: Urban Popular Politics and the Making of Modern Venezuela (University of California Press, 2015), won the 2016 Fernando Coronil Prize for best book on Venezuela, awarded biennially by the Section on Venezuelan Studies of the Latin American Studies Association. His teaching includes interdisciplinary courses on contemporary Latin America, among them seminars on human rights, cultural studies, and urban social movements; historical methods courses on 20th-century revolutions; graduate courses on urban political history and oral history; and workshops with primary and secondary school educators. A frequent media contributor, his editorials and analysis have appeared in NACLA, Nueva Sociedad, The Nation, the New York Times, the Washington Post, Current History, History News Network, BBC History Magazine, and others. Velasco also frequently contributes radio and television commentary in outlets including NPR, MSNBC, Al Jazeera, CBS, France 24, the BBC, and the CBC. On YOUTUBE.com/StandUpWithPete ON SubstackStandUpWithPete Listen rate and review on Apple Podcasts Listen rate and review on Spotify Pete On Instagram Pete on Blue Sky Pete on Threads Pete on Tik Tok Pete on Twitter Pete Personal FB page Stand Up with Pete FB page Gift a Subscription https://www.patreon.com/PeteDominick/gift Send Pete $ Directly on Venmo

Georges Dyer is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Intentional Endowments Network (IEN), a non-profit, peer-learning network that helps endowed institutions make their endowments socially responsible. Of the 3,500 - 4,000 colleges and universities in America, some 2,000 have endowments that are valued at ~$900 billion in aggregate. These academic institutions -- as well as asset management firms, cultural institutions, museums, faith-based organizations, non-profit foundations, and others -- also have a similar value in retirement funds... which while highly regulated, are also being directed towards socially responsible and profitable investments.Georges explains the genesis of IEN. Spurred by the president of Hampshire College, Jonathan Lash, IEN was originally formed to help institutions divest from fossil-fueled industries that were counter to their climate action plans. Student and faculty concerns really started to press on endowment portfolios in 2013. Today, IEN works with some 250 endowments. Ted asks the bottom line question early: How are these endowments performing? Are they losing money, or are they on par, or are they ahead? Georges explains that on balance, they are at par or better.IEN provides a number of tools and resources for its members.. from virtual and in-person "convenings," to benchmarking tools, case studies, and more. The network provides insights and negative screening tools to weed out investments that run counter to an institution's mission and goals, while highlighting positive investment opportunities to reduce risk and steer institutions towards profitable investments in the green economy. The conversation shifts to case studies of "platinum" members: Georges discusses leading institutions including the University of California system and Arizona State University. He discusses how some institutions have found means to invest in their own facilities... for instance solar projects and facility upgrades that make dollars and cents while addressing inequality and other social issues. Georges sites the Rockefeller Brothers Fund as a shining example. Born of oil and gas and fossil fuels, Rockefeller has been a leading example of an organization whose Standard Oil roots are now focused on "intentional investments" with highly positive performance. For more on IEN and its mission and results, check out Georges' new podcast, "The Future of Finance."

Have you ever wondered about what goes on at your local community theatre? Or have you, yourself, participated in community theatre and wished someone covered it in a book? Today's guest of the podcast, Leah Hager Cohen, set out to do just that in her 2001 release "The Stuff of Dreams". This book covered a specific performance in a season of plays for her local community theatre, dubbed one of the oldest community theatres in the country.  Despite having many other fantastic releases since her '01 release, she's on the show today because 'The Stuff of Dreams' was a formative book for Joe during his youth and he had her on the show to discuss all things community and theatre. Please note: Unfortunately, there were some audio issues with Leah's Zoom connection and the quality is not up to the usual standards, we've cleaned it up the best we could but we hope you enjoy it nonetheless. We'll have Leah back again soon to continue this discussion! Enjoy! About Leah Hager Cohen Leah Hager Cohen was born in Manhattan and raised at Lexington School for the Deaf in Queens (where her parents worked) and later in Nyack, New York. As a kid, she spent summers at Camp Kinderland, stiltdanced with the Bread and Puppet Theater, ran a follow spot at Elmwood Playhouse, and shelved books at Nyack Library. At age 16, Leah enrolled as a drama student at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, then transferred to Hampshire College a year later to study writing. She joined an arts brigade in Nicaragua, worked as a nanny in Berkeley, rode a Greyhound bus across the country, and freelanced as an ASL interpreter in NYC before attending Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism. The best praise she ever received came in a letter of recommendation by Edmund W. Gordon, her first boss after college: “She is impatient with institutional stupidity.” Her favorite quote about writing comes from the poet Joseph O. Legaspi: “My first memory of poetry was watching the rain on my windowsill when I was young, and touching the windowpane.” Leah is the author of 7 novels, 5 nonfiction books, one pamphlet, and the blog Love As A Found Object, as well as various and sundry essays, articles and reviews. As of September 2025, she has gone back to school, enrolled in the Master of Social Work program at Simmons University. About 'The Stuff of Dreams' In this unique theatrical memoir, novelist Cohen chronicles the ups and downs of her suburban community theater's struggles over the staging of David Henry Hwang's M. Butterfly. The project is fraught with problems—the Arlington, Mass., theater and its conservative supporters are reluctant to stage a play that deals daringly with sexuality and race; meanwhile, it proves quite difficult to find an Asian man to play the transgendered lead (who also has a nude scene)—but the show must and does go on. Cohen, who loves working in theater, is a keen observer who never hesitates to pinpoint the problems and personality clashes endemic to the process of putting on a play. While she provides useful background, from the history of her theater (begun in 1913) to the importance of community theater in the U.S., she is best at describing the endlessly delicate negotiations between the small but award-winning theater's director, actors, designers and stagehands. Cohen is respectful of everyone's opinions and methods as they face M. Butterfly's considerable challenges to the theater's conventional approach to staging a production and moves us assuredly through her characters' process of political and artistic discovery. While never deeply probing the myriad social issues it raises, Cohen's backstage drama does give us a miniature yet nuanced glimpse into a world rarely explored.   Make sure to check out the Dtalkspodcast.com website! Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast! Nostalgia is something everyone loves and Empire Toys in Keller Texas is on nostalgia overload.   With toys and action figures from the 70's, 80's, 90's, and today, Empire Toys is a one-stop-shop for a trip down memory lane and a chance to reclaim what was once yours (but likely sold at a garage sale)   Check out Empire Toys on Facebook, Instagram, or at TheEmpireToys.com AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast: Your quality of life: physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, is a direct reflection of the level of abundant energy, ease, and connection your nervous system has to experience your life!    At Self Unbound, your nervous system takes center stage as we help unbind your limited healing potential through NetworkSpinal Care.    Access the first steps to your Unbound journey by following us on Facebook, Instagram, or at www.selfunbound.com