Behind the Bastards: New Year Q&A Part Two - Detailed Summary
In the "Behind the Bastards New Year Q&A Part Two" episode, hosts Sophie and Robert engage with their audience by addressing a variety of questions submitted through Instagram. This episode, released on January 2, 2025, delves into topics ranging from substance use and favorite hobbies to future podcast plans and personal anecdotes. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.
1. Kratom Lemonade Recipe and Substance Use Discussion
Timestamp: [00:33] - [01:04]
The episode kicks off with a listener's request for a Kratom lemonade recipe. Robert provides a candid and unfiltered response:
Robert [00:47]: "I don't have a nice Kratom lemonade recipe. I have been doing kratom so long that I don't give a shit. I just pour it in water, I pour it in soda. You do, I mix it. I don't give a fuck. Don't do that. It's gross."
He further elaborates on responsible Kratom use versus potential dependency, emphasizing its role in alleviating opiate withdrawal:
Robert [01:04]: "The responsible advice is that Kratom is something that can and that in the vast majority of cases, will be used responsibly... Kratom stops you from being dope sick."
2. Future Episodes and Research-Intensive Topics
Timestamp: [03:43] - [05:12]
Sophie inquires about future episodes that require extensive research. Robert expresses interest in covering complex historical topics, such as:
Robert [03:49]: "The Bush administration and the war on Iraq... It's been covered, but maybe now's the time to delve deeper for newer generations."
He discusses the challenges of covering multifaceted figures like John Ashcroft or Dick Cheney without getting bogged down by interconnected historical events.
3. Favorite Episodes and Series Highlights
Timestamp: [05:12] - [05:50]
When asked about the episode he is most proud of, Robert highlights the "Lawrence of Arabia" episodes. Sophie counters by expressing pride in James Stout's series on "It Could Happen Here," particularly the reporting from the Darien Gap:
Robert [05:21]: "Probably the Lawrence of Arabia episodes."
Sophie [05:23]: "I'm deeply proud of James series that he did. Reporting from the Darien Gap."
4. Personal Journeys and the Genesis of Cool Zone Media
Timestamp: [05:50] - [16:52]
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around how Sophie and Robert transitioned from their individual backgrounds to becoming leaders at Cool Zone Media. Robert shares his unconventional path to becoming a warzone journalist without formal training:
Robert [06:00]: "No one paid me. I just bought plane tickets to places and reached out to people who lived in the area on the Internet before I landed."
Sophie adds her perspective, highlighting her empathetic nature and progressive ideologies as key factors in shaping Cool Zone Media's direction:
Sophie [08:18]: "I grew up with a Republican dad, a moderate Democrat mom... I think what radicalized me was my insane empathy."
They discuss the challenges of sustaining a media platform focused on nuanced political commentary and the decision to expand their team to prevent burnout:
Robert [16:36]: "We need to bring in other people and develop them... to cover the next big things without just burning out."
5. Working Relationship Between Sophie and Robert
Timestamp: [19:57] - [21:10]
The hosts reflect on their collaboration dynamics, showcasing mutual respect and complementary skills:
Robert [20:05]: "You know what you're doing and handle all of the things that I would never be able to handle that."
Sophie [20:43]: "You are the best business partner that anybody could ever ask for."
They emphasize the importance of division of labor in maintaining a healthy working relationship and ensuring the sustainability of their media projects.
6. Hobbies and Personal Interests
a. Favorite Animals and Dinosaurs
Timestamp: [19:21] - [19:57]
Robert shares his enthusiasm for dinosaurs, particularly the Iguanodon:
Robert [19:26]: "My favorite dinosaur was always an iguanodon... it's the dinosaur equivalent of like a fucking guido pulling a switchblade in a New York alley."
b. Favorite Firearms
Timestamp: [13:11] - [14:36]
Robert discusses his favorite firearms, balancing historical appreciation with practical use:
Robert [13:11]: "The very first gun I ever bought was a 1917 Lee Enfield Mark III... I really like the gun that I carry. A P365XL SIG Sauer."
c. Favorite Ska Bands
Timestamp: [25:31] - [26:26]
Sophie and Robert delve into their love for ska music, with Robert citing Streetlight Manifesto as his top choice:
Robert [25:31]: "Streetlight Manifesto is my favorite band, probably. Thomas Kalnacki is probably my favorite songwriter."
7. Favorite and Recommended Books
Timestamp: [23:48] - [24:59]
Both hosts recommend a selection of impactful literature. Robert highlights works by Ursula K. Le Guin and Octavia Butler:
Robert [23:55]: "The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin... Octavia Butler."
Sophie recommends Julia Serrano's "Whipping Girl" and Amanda Montel's "Koltish," adding:
Sophie [24:26]: "It's an incredible book."
8. Non-Mainstream News Sources
Timestamp: [26:30] - [27:37]
Robert provides a nuanced perspective on non-mainstream news outlets, suggesting sources based on specific interests:
Robert [26:35]: "Jenrahan's popular front... Fight the QAnon Anonymous people are good."
He emphasizes the importance of understanding each outlet's strengths and limitations, advocating for a diverse media consumption approach.
9. Current Events: Developments in Rojava
Timestamp: [22:53] - [23:48]
Robert shares his concerns regarding the geopolitical situation in Rojava, particularly the ongoing conflicts involving Turkey and Israel:
Robert [22:53]: "It looks like the Turks are going to be allowed to continue to bomb as Israel has been bombing Rojava... It's a scary time."
He underscores the complexities of the region and the uncertain future amidst ongoing turmoil.
10. Podcast and Media Production Insights
Timestamp: [17:55] - [19:21]
When asked about their research and episode formatting, Robert outlines his meticulous process:
Robert [17:55]: "I have a doc I read through... I highlight shit, I copy and paste the highlighted shit... I try to make sure I quote every source that gives me a significant amount of info."
This method ensures accuracy and transparency in their content creation, reinforcing the podcast's credibility.
11. Upcoming Plans and Guest Appearances
Timestamp: [21:10] - [27:57]
The hosts discuss potential future episodes, including more content on South African figures and Rhodesian leaders like Ian Smith. They also express interest in bringing back past guests such as Paul F. Tompkins and Lacy Mosley, while humorously addressing the challenges of attracting high-profile guests who might find their content too radical.
Robert [28:02]: "Is there an unfair burden to place upon someone who I'm going to assume is mostly known for singing and dancing."
12. Closing Remarks and Humor
Timestamp: [27:37] - [29:14]
The episode concludes with light-hearted banter between Sophie and Robert, reinforcing their dynamic and rapport. They touch upon quirky questions like "What's cracking my peppers?" and respond with humor, maintaining an engaging and personable tone until the end.
Notable Quotes:
- Robert on Kratom Use [01:04]: "Kratom stops you from being dope sick."
- Robert on Favorite Dinosaur [19:26]: "It's the dinosaur equivalent of like a fucking guido pulling a switchblade in a New York alley."
- Sophie on Working with Robert [20:43]: "You are the best business partner that anybody could ever ask for."
- Robert on Non-Mainstream News [26:35]: "Fight the QAnon Anonymous people are good."
This episode of "Behind the Bastards" exemplifies the hosts' commitment to transparency, depth, and a touch of irreverent humor. Through their candid responses and engaging discussions, Sophie and Robert offer listeners a behind-the-scenes look into their creative processes, personal interests, and the future direction of Cool Zone Media.
For more insights and episodes, visit Cool Zone Media or find "Behind the Bastards" on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and other major platforms.