Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona: BEST OF HMS PODCASTS - March 12, 2025

Episode Highlight: "KKK Is Now Accepting Gays And Jews" originally aired in July 2015

Introduction

In this standout episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness (HMS), the 98 KUPD team's sharp wit and candid discussions take center stage as they delve into the controversial topic of the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) purportedly rebranding to become more inclusive. Hosted by John Holmberg, with insightful contributions from Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, and Dick Toledo, the episode offers a blend of humor, skepticism, and critical analysis that keeps listeners both entertained and informed.

The Controversial Rebranding of the KKK

The conversation kicks off with Brady Bogen bringing up a startling claim: the KKK, traditionally known for its racist and exclusionary policies, is now opening its doors to marginalized groups, including gays, Jews, blacks, and Hispanics. At [00:53], Brady states:

“...the Klan has opened the door. All are welcome to blacks, gays and Jews.”

This assertion sets the tone for a heated debate among the hosts about the authenticity and implications of such a shift. John Holmberg questions the credibility of this transformation, prompting Brady to acknowledge the historical notoriety of the KKK and express skepticism about their genuine intentions.

Skepticism and Satire: Is This for Real?

John Holmberg references comedian Dave Chappelle’s satirical take on the KKK’s inclusivity, pondering whether this rebranding is another sketch rather than reality:

“Wait a minute, didn't Dave Chappelle do this?” [01:17]

Brady counters by affirming the seriousness of the matter, albeit with a hint of sarcasm, suggesting that while the KKK claims to stand for "a strong America and not irrational hatred," their past actions, such as lynchings, reveal a different story.

Defining Hate and Intolerance

The discussion deepens as the hosts navigate the complex definitions of hate and intolerance. At [02:38], Brady muses:

“You got to have a guy determining who is the a**hole and who's.”

This segues into a broader conversation about personal hatred versus societal intolerance, with Brady advocating for a more generalized disdain for people based on their personalities rather than inherent traits like race or sexuality. The hosts debate whether this broader categorization truly signifies progress or simply masks underlying prejudices.

Everyday Hatred: A Common Thread

The conversation takes a relatable turn as the hosts share their own experiences with disliking individuals in their daily lives. Brady emphasizes that everyone harbors some level of hatred, even if unspoken:

“Intolerance is hate. I'm with you. You should hate him.”

John Holmberg and Eric contribute by acknowledging that while they strive not to hate anyone, certain personalities inevitably lead to avoidance and discomfort, reinforcing the pervasive nature of intolerance in everyday interactions.

The Rocky Mountain Knights: Genuine or a Facade?

Brady introduces the rebranded KKK as the "Rocky Mountain Knights," questioning whether this new incarnation is a genuine attempt at inclusivity or merely a superficial facade. He speculates about the potential motives behind this shift, suggesting it could be a strategic move to broaden membership without addressing the group's foundational hateful ideology.

“They decided to include Jews, blacks and homosexuals.” [01:47]

This leads to a discussion about the practicality and sincerity of such a transformation, with the hosts expressing doubt that former KKK members would readily embrace significant changes to their core beliefs and practices.

Parallels and Cultural References

Throughout the episode, the hosts draw parallels between the KKK's actions and cultural phenomena. Brady likens the group's rebranding to the infamous "red pill or blue pill" choice from The Matrix, highlighting the manipulative undertones of forcing members into a predetermined narrative.

Additionally, references to popular culture, such as Admiral Ackbar's iconic line from Star Wars, inject humor and relatability into the serious discussion:

“Why is that guy here? Get out, Negro.” [12:32]

Legal Intricacies: The Bill Cosby Case

Transitioning topics, the hosts briefly touch upon the ongoing legal battles surrounding Bill Cosby. Dick Toledo introduces a segment about a viral image juxtaposing Bill Cosby’s head with Morpheus from The Matrix, sparking a lively debate on the implications of Cosby's legal strategies and the potential perjury involved in hush money agreements.

“She's trying to get the judge to release the entire deal because she's like, you'll see in there that he offered us money.” [14:53]

Brady critically examines the ethical and legal ramifications, suggesting that Cosby's attempts to silence accusers could backfire, leading to more widespread revelations.

Humor and Banter: The HMS Signature Style

True to HMS's format, the episode is peppered with humor and playful banter. Whether mocking the KKK's supposed new inclusivity or jesting about personal dislikes, the hosts maintain a light-hearted atmosphere despite the weighty topics. This balance ensures that the content remains engaging and accessible to a broad audience.

For instance, Brady humorously contemplates the logistics of joining the rebranded KKK:

“If you are a gay or a black or a Jew or a Hispanic, you've always thought, man, that clan's onto something. If they'd only let me in. Now's your chance. It's available to you.” [03:44]

Conclusion: A Critical Reflection on Hate and Inclusivity

In wrapping up the episode, the hosts reflect on the broader implications of hate and the challenges of fostering genuine inclusivity. They emphasize the importance of targeting specific behaviors and personalities rather than resorting to broad, discriminatory classifications based on race, sexuality, or religion.

“That's a big step. We're not limiting our hate to race anymore... Let's hate for reasons like Brady hates personality. It's true. You can't tolerate some people and that's hate.” [12:47]

This nuanced discussion encourages listeners to critically assess the nature of their prejudices and consider more constructive approaches to interpersonal conflicts.

Final Thoughts

This episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness masterfully navigates complex social issues with a blend of humor, skepticism, and insightful commentary. By dissecting the KKK's controversial rebranding and touching upon related societal themes, the hosts provide a thought-provoking exploration of hate, intolerance, and the quest for genuine inclusivity. Whether you're a regular listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode offers valuable perspectives and engaging dialogue that resonate well beyond the radio waves.