Behind the Bastards: It Could Happen Here Weekly 164 - Detailed Summary

Release Date: January 11, 2025

Hosts: Garrison Davis, Sophie Lichterman, James Stout, Robert Evans, Mia Wong, and Jason Alexander

1. Introduction to the Episode

The episode begins with a brief introduction where Robert Evans announces that this is a compilation episode of "It Could Happen Here," consolidating the week's episodes into one long-form discussion with fewer advertisements. The hosts express that regular listeners may find little new content, but newcomers will benefit from the comprehensive overview.

2. Wildfires in Los Angeles and Mutual Aid Efforts [00:55 - 02:08]

James Stout shares alarming updates about recent wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles:

• Impact: Thousands displaced, five fatalities confirmed, extensive property damage.
• Call to Action: Introduction of mutual aid groups needing donations.
• Suggested Donations:
  • The Sidewalk Project (Sidewalk Project.org)
  • K TownForAll (ktownforall.org)
  • Aetna Street Solidarity (Available on Venmo and Instagram)

Robert Evans emphasizes the urgency of supporting these groups and previews an upcoming interview with one of them.

3. Freelance Journalism and Activism [04:31 - 07:12]

Listeners pose questions about pursuing freelance journalism while actively fighting for equality.

• Robert Evans advises selecting a narrow, passionate focus area to build expertise and credibility, citing Dave Futrell’s coverage of the manosphere as an example ([06:21 - 06:57]).

• James Stout recommends joining the IWW Freelance Journalists Union for networking, learning about pitch strategies, and avoiding toxic editors. He also suggests attending community college workshops for practical journalism skills ([07:12 - 07:32]).

4. Predictions for the Trump Administration's Early Days [07:33 - 10:49]

The hosts discuss anticipated actions of a potential Trump administration:

• Robert Evans expects aggressive immigration policies, including attempts to deport millions, though practical limitations may hinder the extent ([07:58 - 08:32]).

• Mia Wong anticipates swift implementation of tariffs, urging listeners to purchase electronics promptly to avoid future price hikes ([08:32 - 09:04]).

• James Stout predicts further restrictions on asylum and potential mobilization of public health laws against migrants, referencing actions similar to those in 2020 ([09:07 - 09:31]).

• Robert Evans speculates on possible legal actions against the press, including changes to libel laws, reflecting the administration’s focus on litigation ([10:20 - 10:49]).

5. Upcoming Subscription Services and Technical Challenges [10:49 - 12:16]

Garrison Davis updates listeners on the forthcoming ad-free Android subscription channel, apologizing for delays caused by bureaucratic and legal obstacles. He assures that the service will launch in early 2025 and commends the hard work of team members, particularly Sophie and Mia, in overcoming challenges ([10:49 - 12:16]).

6. Motivation Behind the Hosts' Work [12:16 - 18:35]

The hosts share personal motivations for their work:

• Sophie Lichterman emphasizes paying rent, maintaining discipline through routines, and dedicating herself to focused projects that often consume her personal life ([13:24 - 15:53]).

• Mia Wong attributes her motivation to anger over societal issues and joy from engaging in meaningful projects, alongside the desire to make a tangible difference ([15:02 - 16:37]).

• Robert Evans highlights a passion for journalism fueled by deep anger and the fulfilling nature of investigative work, particularly in exposing mass shooters and societal threats ([14:17 - 17:36]).

• James Stout finds joy in storytelling, feeling privileged to hear and convey others' traumas, and witnessing listeners take meaningful action inspired by the podcast ([16:21 - 17:36]).

• Garrison Davis combines genuine care for the podcast's content with the responsibility of impacting numerous lives positively, driving him to continue despite challenges ([17:36 - 18:35]).

7. Favorite Episodes and Highlights of the Year [18:35 - 21:22]

The hosts reflect on their favorite episodes produced over the year:

• Garrison Davis praises James's series on the Darien Gap and Robert's survival of the RNC and DNC events, alongside Mia's impactful labor stories and Robert's "Don't Panic" episode ([18:43 - 20:04]).

• Mia Wong highlights interviews with Dr. Julia Serrano from "Whipping Girl" and successful organizing efforts that connected personal hobbies with activism ([20:04 - 21:22]).

• James Stout expresses pride in the Darien Gap series and the positive reactions from listeners who shared the episodes with family, fostering understanding and compassion ([21:22 - 22:24]).

8. Discussion on the Proposed 2028 General Strike [24:04 - 27:15]

The hosts debate the feasibility and implications of a proposed general strike in 2028:

• Mia Wong is cautiously optimistic, recognizing organizational challenges but valuing the opportunity to unite labor and support networks ([24:14 - 25:06]).

• Sophie Lichterman stresses the importance of beginning logistical planning immediately to prevent preemptive criminalization by authorities ([25:08 - 25:13]).

• Robert Evans acknowledges the ambitious nature of the strike, debating potential Republican and Democratic responses, and underscores the need for serious, well-planned activism to avoid frivolous attempts that undermine the movement’s effectiveness ([25:13 - 27:15]).

• James Stout supports the general strike but emphasizes the necessity for thorough preparation and a clear purpose to inspire genuine participation ([26:07 - 26:33]).

9. Book and Movie Recommendations for 2025 [27:15 - 31:39]

The hosts recommend various books and movies:

• James Stout recommends "Presente" by an unnamed author, detailing the San Francisco dock workers' blockade against weapon shipments, and "Setting the Desert on Fire" by James Barr on T.E. Lawrence ([27:36 - 28:28]).

• Mia Wong suggests "The Gun Runner and Her Hound" by Maria Ying and the forthcoming "One of the Boys" by Victoria Zeller, which explores a trans girl's experience in football ([28:28 - 29:49]).

• Sophie Lichterman praises "Steppenwolf" by Hermann Hesse and Luca Guadagino's "Queer Adapting the Short Story by William S. Burroughs," appreciating the latter's exploration of identity and meaning ([29:49 - 31:39]).

• Garrison Davis recommends "The Wicker Man" (1973) for its classic status and unique viewing experience, especially in theaters ([31:39 - 31:43]).

10. Predictions for Dictators and Global Events [34:28 - 58:39]

The hosts engage in a speculative discussion about future dictatorships and global events:

• Mia Wong predicts the continued rule of Myanmar's junta beyond 2025 and the potential assassination of Bashar al-Assad by extremist factions ([38:52 - 39:25]).

• Sophie Lichterman humorously envisions Assad transitioning to a media host role, reflecting cynicism about his leadership's future ([39:13 - 39:41]).

• Robert Evans hopes for the fall of political figures like Boris Johnson and suspects internal political struggles will lead to significant changes ([40:02 - 40:14]).

• Sophie Lichterman suggests that there won't be a "left wing Joe Rogan," reflecting concerns about media and cultural shifts ([39:57 - 40:44]).

• James Stout anticipates ongoing border tensions and potential clashes between National Guard and federal forces, drawing parallels to past events like Portland 2020 ([52:30 - 56:58]).

• Robert Evans emphasizes the necessity for substantial changes in organizing and social conditions to facilitate effective activism, warning against superficial or unserious efforts ([56:53 - 58:39]).

11. Spotify Wrapped Death Predictions [40:58 - 58:39]

In a lighter segment, the hosts humorously forecast fictional deaths tied to Spotify Wrapped Day:

• Sophie Lichterman and Robert Evans mockingly predict unlikely deaths of celebrities and public figures, attributing them to absurd scenarios like AI-induced stress or violence.

• James Stout and Mia Wong join in with exaggerated and fictionalized outcomes for personalities like Elon Musk and J.K. Rowling, blending satire with dark humor ([40:58 - 58:39]).

12. Attention to AI and Technology at CES [59:06 - 107:00]

The hosts provide a critical overview of their experiences at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES):

• Robert Evans expresses frustration with the prevalence of poorly generated AI content, highlighting panels focused on generative AI's role in Hollywood and its shortcomings in creativity and consistency ([66:01 - 86:50]).

• Sophie Lichterman and Jason Alexander discuss demos of AI-generated videos and robots, emphasizing the lack of genuine creativity and the mechanical, soulless nature of current technologies ([66:01 - 107:00]).

• Discussion Points:

  • AI in Advertising: Critique of Coca-Cola's AI-generated Christmas ad for its unnatural visuals and repetitive elements ([70:00 - 75:17]).

  • Robotics Innovations: Examination of Open Droids' AI-powered household robots designed for mundane tasks, debating their practicality and emotional disconnect ([75:17 - 86:50]).

  • Smart Homes and Privacy: Concerns about AI integration in smart homes, data privacy, and the potential for targeted advertisements based on household layouts ([75:00 - 89:35]).

  • Ethics of AI: Acknowledgment of the ethical dilemmas presented by AI in creative industries and the need for responsible development and regulation ([95:56 - 107:00]).

13. Conclusion and Farewell [107:00 - 148:08]

In wrapping up, the hosts reflect on the day's events at CES, balancing their frustration with technological advancements with occasional praise for genuine innovations like the Bioleg prosthetic:

• Sophie Lichterman advocates for maintaining human-centered approaches in technology to prevent the erosion of genuine creativity and connection ([138:59 - 148:08]).

• Robert Evans and Jason Alexander continue their critique of soulless AI implementations while acknowledging the potential of meaningful technological advancements when designed with empathy and purpose ([139:58 - 148:08]).

The episode concludes with the hosts expressing their determination to continue producing impactful content despite the challenges posed by advancing technologies and societal issues.

Notable Quotes:

• Robert Evans [06:21]: "You have to pick a very narrow thing and make it your life. And not just a random thing, but like a thing that you think is important."

• Mia Wong [15:52]: "We're building the hammer and we're swinging it."

• Robert Evans [25:13]: "If people could be there, they would care. And if they care enough, they'll do something."

• James Stout [26:33]: "A general strike. But it's just not something we're familiar with. I love a general strike."

• Robert Evans [141:00]: "It's a net negative for the artistic community. The point is not to get something out as quick as possible. It's like, make art."

Conclusion:

"It Could Happen Here Weekly 164" offers a multifaceted discussion on pressing societal issues, freelance journalism, political predictions, economic forecasts, and the ethical implications of advancing AI technologies. The hosts provide insightful critiques and hopeful aspirations, encouraging listeners to engage actively in activism and remain discerning about technological integrations in everyday life.