Podcast Summary: "Free Thinking Through the Fourth Turning with Sasha Stone"
Episode: "Zelensky Believed His Own Publicity"
Release Date: March 3, 2025
Introduction: The Cult of Publicity
In the opening segment, Sasha Stone critiques the elevation of Volodymyr Zelenskyy to celebrity status, drawing parallels between his portrayal and that of Hollywood icons. Stone argues that Zelenskyy's transformation from a TV actor to a wartime president has been heavily influenced by media publicity, likening it to the myth-making seen in the Oscars. He states:
"We turn ordinary people into gods and goddesses by telling flattering myths about who they are and why they're important." (00:00)
Stone contends that this glorification distracts both the public and political entities, particularly the Democrats, from addressing critical issues, including the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Hollywood's Role in the Ukraine Conflict
Stone delves into the symbiotic relationship between Hollywood and the Ukrainian war, highlighting how celebrities have intertwined politics with culture. He references a tweet by Kamala Harris regarding the Oscars, setting the stage for a deeper analysis of celebrity involvement. Stone remarks:
"Transing the kids, open borders for cheap labor, and most importantly, the war in Ukraine. Attending the Oscars is like supporting the Democrats, which is like supporting Zelensky." (00:00)
He criticizes figures like Sean Penn, who use their platforms to support Zelenskyy, suggesting that their genuine belief in their own publicity clouds their judgment. Stone points out that Penn’s involvement at events like the Golden Globes represents a broader disconnect between Hollywood elites and the realities of war.
Interactions at the Golden Globes
The podcast transitions to a recounting of Sean Penn's acceptance speech and his subsequent interaction with Zelenskyy at the Golden Globes in 2022. Penn lauds Zelenskyy as a symbol of courage and freedom, stating:
"There is nothing greater that the Academy Awards could do than to give him that opportunity to talk to all of us." (03:43)
Stone interprets Penn’s actions as indicative of a larger Hollywood narrative that blends political advocacy with celebrity culture. He criticizes the superficial support, arguing that handing Zelenskyy an Oscar is a symbolic gesture that ignores the complex realities of the war.
Critique of Zelenskyy's Leadership
Stone scrutinizes Zelenskyy's leadership, asserting that his rise to power was fueled by his television persona rather than effective governance. He argues that Zelenskyy, overwhelmed by his celebrity status, has lost touch with the practicalities of leading a nation at war:
"Zelensky misread the moment and the room. [...] that he couldn't possibly make a deal to end the war without giving up everything else." (09:04)
This detachment, according to Stone, has led to catastrophic consequences for Ukraine, including rampant corruption and ineffective military management.
Impact of Western Support and Media Narratives
The discussion shifts to the diminishing support from Western nations and the role of legacy media in perpetuating flawed narratives. Stone emphasizes that Western aid has been mismanaged, with resources siphoned off by corrupt officials rather than reaching the frontline soldiers:
"Corruption has destroyed the army from within. Western aid does not reach the fighters, settling in the pockets of those who have made war their business." (15:27)
He criticizes the media for not holding these issues accountable, thereby sustaining the myth of an inevitable victory for Ukraine without addressing the underlying systemic failures.
Celebrity Reactions and Public Perception
Stone highlights the polarized reactions of celebrities like Jessica Chastain and Orlando Bloom to Zelenskyy's actions and the broader war narrative. Chastain's support for Trump and criticism of Zelenskyy is juxtaposed with her initial praise, illustrating the conflicting loyalties within Hollywood:
"When you win, bring it back to Malibu. [...] we love you, Trump man." (15:27)
This shift underscores Stone's argument that celebrity endorsements are often driven by personal agendas rather than informed political stances.
Conclusion: The Collapse of Constructed Narratives
In his concluding remarks, Stone warns of the impending collapse of the fabricated narratives surrounding Zelenskyy and the war in Ukraine. He predicts that as the realities of the conflict become undeniable, the elites who once championed the cause will abandon Ukraine, leaving the country in disarray:
"The legacy press is not on the side of this country. [...] Remember, keep to thine own self true." (24:34)
Stone urges listeners to recognize the constructed nature of these public figures and narratives, advocating for a more grounded and truthful understanding of geopolitical conflicts.
Key Takeaways
- Media Glorification: The elevation of political figures to celebrity status distorts public perception and undermines effective leadership.
- Hollywood’s Influence: Celebrities often blend politics with entertainment, perpetuating myths that distract from critical issues.
- Leadership Critique: Zelenskyy's transition from actor to president has been marred by ineffective governance and corruption.
- Western Aid Mismanagement: International support has been hampered by corruption and bureaucratic incompetence, exacerbating Ukraine's challenges.
- Media Complicity: Legacy media perpetuates flawed narratives, failing to hold powerful entities accountable.
- Celebrity Polarization: Conflicting stances among celebrities highlight the superficiality of their political endorsements.
Notable Quotes
- “We turn ordinary people into gods and goddesses by telling flattering myths about who they are and why they're important.” — Sacha Stone (00:00)
- “If the freedom to dream were a spear, I proudly present a human being who tonight represents that spear's most honed tip.” — Sean Penn (04:35)
- “Zelensky came looking for a paycheck, and he wound up leaving with a reality check.” — Unknown Speaker (17:12)
- “The legacy press is not on the side of this country. [...] We are in a traumatized industry in a traumatized city in a traumatized country.” — Sacha Stone (20:55)
For more insights and detailed analyses, visit sashastone.substack.com.