THIS IS REVOLUTION ＞podcast

Well, the year is coming to an end, and let’s kick off our year-end fundraising extravaganza! I will be periodically posting some merch and patron links on the screen. I’m going full retard on the PBS ness of it all. 

As you all know, TIR is entirely listener-funded. We don’t take corporate money—yet. But hey, at this point, I am not above accepting some venture capitalist funds. If lizard man Peter Thiel wants to drop some change this way, I WILL TAKE IT! Seriously, though, we’re gearing up to celebrate five incredible years of bringing you top-tier shows spiced with the finest dick jokes in podcasting.

To finish the year strong, we’ve lined up an all-star roster of guest hosts. The Green and Red Podcast will be here to dig into the biggest environmental stories of the year. Champagne Sharks is making a triumphant return, and the Antifada crew will also be in the mix. So if you like your podcasts smart, sharp, and a little chaotic, now’s the time to help us grow—so big that maybe, just maybe, we too can be part of the Vanguard’s podcast drama wars.

In actual news, a suspect is now in custody for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The accused, Luigi Mangione, has become something of an antihero heartthrob online. There are memes, thirst traps, and even some wild right-wing takes—I saw one guy call him “a real-life Batman.” (Spoiler: that guy doesn’t know who Batman is.)

But, following the Robin Hood-like response across the political spectrum for Mangione there has been a backlash. Following the murder, a Florida woman named Brianna Boston used the same chilling words reportedly etched on the shell casings found at the scene of the crime—“Delay, Deny, Depose.” Boston was arrested for making terrorist threats after her claim was denied while she was on the phone with Blue Cross. Boston was just venting after having a claim denied and posed no threat, but will this be the move of these companies moving forward?

One thing this incident has done is reignited public outrage about the deadly inefficiency of the American healthcare system. Michael Moore was inspired to drop *Sicko* on YouTube for free, it feels like we’re in a moment worth examining.

So let’s talk about it. What does Luigi Mangione’s viral antihero status say about the state of the public’s frustration with corporate healthcare? Is this a sign that Americans are reaching a breaking point with the “profits over people” model? Or is this just another fleeting moment in the outrage cycle, destined to fizzle before it can spark meaningful reform?

Meanwhile, local news outlets are amplifying stories about families suffering under Medicaid cuts and unaffordable premiums. But can the spotlight on healthcare—even one as darkly sensational as this—actually push us closer to socialized medicine? And what does it say about the system that it takes extreme events, like the death of a CEO or the arrest of a desperate woman, to bring these issues to the fore?

Let’s dive in. And don’t forget to drop a Super Chat! Help us grow, so one day I can afford the kind of healthcare coverage these CEOs would deny me.

Jason laments about the current state of healthcare in the US, and then takes a deep dive into what it's like to live in a high crime area.

We take a look at some of the Jay-Z accusations and umm... Then we look back at some classic Richard Pryor stuff from his variety show! Enjoy

The term "hair metal" is often loaded with contradictory emotions. For some, it carries a pejorative tone, evoking images of overproduced, superficial music that prioritized style over substance. For others, it symbolizes a golden era of hedonism and carefree excess—a nostalgic portal to the cultural climate of the 1980s. Whether you're a Gen X'er reliving the glory years of 1981-1987 or a Gen Z'er discovering the era's flamboyant spectacle for the first time, hair metal offers an intriguing entry into a bygone cultural zeitgeist.

Hair metal is best understood as an amalgamation of diverse influences: the shock rock theatrics of Alice Cooper and KISS, the virtuosic intensity of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), and the pop hooks reminiscent of 70s classic rock. The genre's genesis can be traced to Los Angeles in the late 1970s and early 1980s, amid the decline of hardcore punk and new wave. Unlike the disaffected rebellion of punk or the cerebral stylings of new wave, hair metal embraced a more commercial, hedonistic ethos that resonated with suburban youth.

Van Halen’s meteoric rise in the late 70s, driven by Eddie Van Halen’s guitar innovation and David Lee Roth’s charismatic theatrics, laid much of the groundwork. Yet, it was Quiet Riot that first achieved mainstream success with 1983’s Metal Health, the first metal album to reach #1 on the Billboard charts. Their cover of Slade's “Cum on Feel the Noize” exemplified the blend of hard rock bombast and pop sensibility that defined the genre.

Simultaneously, Ozzy Osbourne’s Blizzard of Ozz (1980) featuring Randy Rhoads, redefined what metal could be—dark and heavy, but also catchy and accessible. This formula of blending metal’s aggression with pop hooks became the template for hair metal’s commercial domination.

Unlike punk’s overt challenge to conservative politics, hair metal offered rebellion as a commodified spectacle. It was less about collective resistance to authority and more about personal indulgence. The Reagan and Thatcher years saw the rise of neoliberal individualism, and hair metal became the soundtrack to this ethos: drugs, sex, and flashy excess. Bands like Mötley Crüe, with albums such as Shout at the Devil (1983), exemplified this aesthetic, blending occult imagery with glam decadence.

However, by the late 80s, the genre began to cannibalize itself. Bands influenced by early hair metal—such as Poison—were producing sanitized versions of the form. By 1988, hair metal had become a bloated commercial enterprise. Simultaneously, the rise of bands like Guns N' Roses and Faster Pussycat, who rejected the cartoonish glam aesthetic, signaled a shift. Mötley Crüe’s 1987 album Girls, Girls, Girls symbolized this transition—gone were the lace and makeup, replaced by leather and a grittier image.

The genre’s decline was swift, for many hastened by the rise of grunge and alternative rock in the early 90s. While I don’t discount the raw authenticity of bands like Nirvana, and how it  stood in stark contrast to the excesses of hair metal; By 1987 most of the “hair metal” songs were pop music with distorted guitars. Def Leppard’s 1983 Pyromania was to be their “Thriller”. This was less an authentic genre, and more a media moniker, and everyone with a Marshall stack and hair spray wanted to use that moniker to get in the business.  By the early 90s, the genre was relegated to nostalgia tours and retro compilations, a relic of a pre-grunge world.

Why Didn’t California Vote To Raise the Minimum Wage?

In the recent November election, California voters surprisingly rejected Proposition 32, a measure aimed at increasing the statewide minimum wage to $18 per hour by 2025. This decision occurred despite prior legislative successes, such as the passage of a bill raising fast food workers' wages to $20 per hour. The rejection of Prop 32 reflects a broader trend in voter priorities, as economic concerns have overtaken issues like systemic racism, which dominated public discourse in the aftermath of the George Floyd protests in 2020. 

Polling data from the Associated Press at the time of the election indicated that a majority of Californians cited the economy as their primary concern, with worries about inflation and rising costs playing a significant role. Opponents of Prop 32, including the California Chamber of Commerce and other business groups, warned voters that such an increase could lead to higher prices and economic instability—a message that appears to have resonated widely.

Simultaneously, growing public frustration with corporate power and wealth inequality has fueled more radical critiques. The recent assassination of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson prompted a flood of online commentary expressing disdain for the perceived exploitation by corporate elites. United Healthcare, in particular, has faced criticism for profiting at the expense of denying essential care. Despite widespread economic precarity—evidenced by the rising number of "ALICE" (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households—and persistent issues like housing insecurity, public responses suggest a declining collective empathy for the economically vulnerable. For example, San Francisco recently announced the closure of its only RV parking site for unhoused residents, underscoring this shift.

This growing tension highlights a paradox: while frustration with corporate greed is palpable, there is little evidence of a coordinated working-class movement capable of enacting systemic change. The rejection of Prop 32 raises critical questions about public attitudes toward economic justice, the influence of corporate lobbying, and the potential for a renewed push for labor rights and equity in the post-George Floyd era.

Jason and Ben open the show telling the Canada story then discuss the origins of hair metal. After that we all watch some vintage commercials from the late 90s 2000s. Oh man, the things people sold..boy o boy..

One of Us Is the Killer & Why Trump Isn’t a Fascist

Some weeks ago, we dropped the fourth issue of The Crisis Papers on TIR, a collection of essays addressing diverse topics, available for free to all patrons. In this latest issue, we examine the futility of online outrage, particularly directed at what I’ve termed political “opinionists.”

The inspiration for this paper came from a clip I posted of a rant on the phenomena of media “heel turns,” the overuse of the term “grift,” and the impotence of the online mob. The modern practice of “stan’ing” a celebrity or media figure has always unsettled me. While the term has declined in popularity, I don’t believe this signals a decrease in fandom. Rather, fandom has adapted, reflecting a broader trend of managed allegiance in our digital age.

In the article, we explore how the relationship between fandom and celebrity, particularly in leftist digital spaces, often substitutes symbolic gestures for substantive political action. Alan Moore, author of Watchmen, recently critiqued this shift, describing fandom as a “toxic” force, transforming admiration into fundamentalism and vendettas. Moore warns that this echo chamber, driven by strict orthodoxy, fosters ideological purges that many mistake for genuine activism—a digital gulag maintained by what could be called a cyber-Stalinist regime.

From the article: 

This strained relationship between fandom and celebrity, especially within left-leaning digital spaces, exemplifies the illusion of political participation in the absence of real structural change. As Alan Moore, the author of Watchmen, recently argued, "fandom has toxified the world.” In an interview with The Guardian Moore explains how fandom now manifests as a mechanism for obsessive control, often spilling over into vendettas against the creators they once admired. "We’ve reached a point where fandom has begun to resemble religious fundamentalism," Moore suggests, where adherence to a narrow orthodoxy defines the worth of creators and personalities alike. This environment creates an echo chamber where any slight deviation from a perceived leftist consensus is seen as ideological treason, worthy of condemnation and social media shaming—a ritual that many mistake for genuine political activism. The virtual gulag is the destination that the cyber Stalinist regime is campaigning for.

Beyond the article, which our guest helped edit, we’ll discuss his most recent piece in Damage magazine titled, “Is Trump Hitler or Just Woodrow Wilson?”. In the article our guest Ben Burgis lays out a coherent argument on why the fascist argument about Donald Trump obscures his actual goals with administration, and how the fascism framework in liberal circles is designed to engage true leftists away from the fight for redistribution of wealth, building a strong workers movement, into the war against Trump..whatever that may be.

Burgis writes:

First, hysteria serves no one. And it certainly doesn’t serve a long-term project like patiently rebuilding the workers’ movement and constituting the kind of Left that could actually contest for power in as deeply anti-socialist a country as the United States.

Second, the implicit logic of fascism analogies in intra-left discourse is nearly always to encourage leftists to put aside our battles with the neoliberal center over economic questions in favor of a procedural defense of democracy against what’s postulated as an urgent common threat. This amounts to telling socialists to endorse pretty much the same “build the broadest possible front around the most minimal possible basis of agreement” strategy that Democrats and Never Trump Republicans have been doggedly pursuing since Trump first came down the escalator in 2015. The abject failure of the Harris campaign to lean into an economically populist message is precisely what led to an unprecedented level of working-class support for the “fascist” Trump. Endlessly relitigating January 6th and constantly reminding voters of how sensible people across the political spectrum were supporting Harris (everyone, as she and her surrogates often said, “from Bernie Sanders to Dick Cheney”) simply didn’t move ordinary Americans. 

So join us today as we engage in what I think will be an interesting conversation. Please welcome my friend, editor and neighbor, Ben Burgis

Are the Bills For Real?

With a 10-2 record and a commanding 7-game win streak, the Buffalo Bills are poised to make a serious push in the 2024 NFL playoffs. Just weeks ago, they not only defeated the reigning powerhouse Kansas City Chiefs but followed up with a crushing victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday Night Football, all but ending the Niners’ postseason hopes. The Bills aren’t just winning—they’re dominating. Unlike the Chiefs, whose narrow victories have become almost mythical or conspiratorial, depending on if you’re a fan or not;  the Bills are leaving no doubt about their superiority on the field. Could this be the year Buffalo finally exorcises the ghosts of Super Bowl heartbreaks past?

Led by Josh Allen, these Bills may not be the offensive juggernaut of the early '90s—teams that remain the only in history to reach four consecutive Super Bowls—but they are efficient, resilient, and balanced. This current Bills team is as hard nosed and working class as their dedicated fans. The city’s hunger for the elusive championship that has slipped through their fingers too many times may be realized by this iteration of the team. Is 2024 the year that they finally hoist the Lombardi Trophy?

And while the NFL is heating up, the NCAA football landscape is once again centered on a familiar name: Alabama. Somehow, despite early doubts, the Crimson Tide have fought their way back into the College Football Playoff conversation. We’ll break down how they did it, what it means for the playoff picture, and whether Alabama is poised for another run at glory.

Let’s dive into the Bills’ Super Bowl hopes and the twists of the college football playoff race.

We interrogate Gen Z slang, then go back and listen to some old slang. So don't get Norvilled on your way to the champagne room!

A J.Myles rant. Enjoy!

The Chumash Rebellion

Welcome to a holiday episode of THIS IS REVOLUTION>podcast, where we dive into the myths and truths surrounding the most propagandized narratives of American history. Yes, Thanksgiving is upon us—a time that can range from warm gatherings with loved ones to fiery debates with relatives reveling in the "glorious" Trump victory over "that communist Kamala Harris." But as we carve the turkey, we often forget—or perhaps never truly knew—the histories that make up this holiday and its complex intersections with the lives of Native Americans.

Tonight, we take a sharp detour from the saccharine tales of "Pilgrims and Indians" with our esteemed guest, historian Joe Payne, who will unpack the story of the Chumash Rebellion of 1824. It was a powerful and successful uprising against the oppressive mission system in Alta California—a narrative systematically erased by colonialism's historical whitewashing. Prepare for revelations that will enrich—or weaponize—your Thanksgiving dinner debates.

Joe Payne will illuminate the Chumash not as the "savages" that racist missionaries painted them to be, but as a sophisticated and resilient people forced into colonial servitude by Spanish Franciscans. Through their heroic uprising, they defied their oppressors and reclaimed their autonomy, even if only briefly. Tonight’s episode promises an academic and gripping journey into this hidden history.

Please join us in welcoming Joe Payne to the podcast!

Alex gives us an update on Lenin, and then the goes off the rails!

Welcome to Beyond the Red Zone, where we break down the sports narratives shaping the week with a critical lens. Tonight, we look at three hot topics in sports, examining not just the performances but the systemic factors at play.

First up, the Cleveland Cavaliers are off to a historic start, becoming only the fourth team in NBA history to begin a season 15-0. However, their first loss of the season came in a tight battle against the reigning champion Boston Celtics, a team with a loaded roster and championship pedigree. While the Cavs have shown they can compete at the highest level, the question remains: do they have what it takes to challenge the Celtics for the Eastern Conference crown, or does their success reflect a league still adjusting to their rise?

In college football, the playoff picture is beginning to take shape. Traditional powerhouse Georgia has reclaimed its place in the top ranks, but intriguing contenders like SMU, BYU, and Colorado are keeping things unpredictable. These programs represent a refreshing challenge to the established order, but how sustainable is their success given the financial and recruiting advantages enjoyed by more traditional programs?

Finally, in the NFL, the Dallas Cowboys are floundering. The question isn’t just How bad are they but why are they so bad? Is the problem rooted in Dak Prescott’s inconsistency, questionable coaching decisions, or deeper systemic failures tied to ownership? Similar questions could be asked of the Raiders, another team with a storied history weighed down by ownership issues. Are these teams struggling due to their structural inefficiencies, or are we simply seeing the limitations of football’s oligarchic ownership model?

These topics promise an engaging conversation not just about sports but the deeper dynamics of power, money, and influence shaping the games we love. Let’s dive in!

Jason vents the spectacle that was the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson--the fight no one asked for!

Get the book, "Who Owns Democracy" here: https://a.co/d/5CG9bAF

Who Owns Democracy: The Real Deep State and the Struggle Over Caste and Class in America

In this episode, we examine the return of Donald Trump, now re-elected after his 2020 defeat, with his presidency poised as a mission of Charles Bronson like retribution. Campaigning on dismantling the so-called “deep state,” Trump has presented himself as a champion of the people, railing against a corrupt elite while being a member of that very elite. 

To unravel these contradictions, we delve into the concept of the "deep state" and explore its historical and structural implications. How does Trump’s rhetoric weaponize popular discontent while deflecting from the deeper systemic issues? And what does the "deep state" actually entail beyond the political buzzword it has become? 

Joining us today are professors Charles Derber and Yale Magrass, co-authors of the groundbreaking book, *Who Owns Democracy: The Real Deep State and the Struggle of Caste and Class in America*. The book explores the interplay of caste, class, and power in shaping America’s political and economic systems, revealing how the true deep state extends far beyond partisan politics

Get Matt's book here: https://a.co/d/6wjTY0c

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop

Jason breaks down the faux outrage of text telling African Americans to report for Slavery after Trump's electoral victory. Then Jason along with the audience examine nuisance streamers; what is their end game? Lastly, we check out the hot new song by viral hip hop sensation, Lil Fuckhead, "Eatin' All tha Butt". Enjoy. 

Listen to the 1982 Playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/04wj895QLuRqidJYCPIOaj?si=ynwWIGIxTC-eEoOkibegBA

In this episode, we dive into the pivotal year of 1982, a watershed moment that saw heavy music break away from the “dinosaur” rock of the '70s and launch into new, dynamic subgenres. This year gave birth to two powerful yet opposing forces in metal: the raw, uncompromising sound of thrash and the glammed-up spectacle of hair metal. We explore how both genres became symbolic of a larger cultural and economic shift, with thrash embodying an anti-establishment ethos while hair metal captured mainstream attention with its flashy, accessible style.

However, as capitalist production infiltrated these new genres, the revolutionary spirit that first defined them was soon diluted. Record labels and media, quick to capitalize on the trend, churned out copycats and polished away the edge, reducing genuine rebellion to commodified rebellion. This episode discusses how, despite the initial burst of creativity and defiance, the rapid commercialization of both thrash and hair metal ultimately diminished their potential for lasting cultural impact, leaving us to question: can music remain revolutionary within a capitalist framework?

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop

As political attention pivots towards the potential return of Donald Trump, the deeper and more pervasive economic reality of bipartisan austerity persists for most working Americans. Our guest today, Clara Mattei, argues that austerity’s fundamental purpose is not merely economic constraint but an assault on labor itself, embedding a “capitalist realist” resignation into our collective consciousness. In her recent article for Jacobin Magazine, Mattei writes, “When the US state, like most states, increases military spending or rescues banks while simultaneously cutting spending on health care, education, transportation, public housing, or unemployment benefits, it structurally transfers resources from the working majority to the 1 percent of the population that subsists mainly off capital ownership (i.e., stock dividends, rents, and interest).” This reveals austerity as a project not of restraint, but rather a reallocation of resources “in favor of the economic and financial elite and to the detriment of the majority of the population.” As we navigate a landscape where many struggle to afford medical care, are forced to send children to overcrowded, underfunded schools, and endure bureaucracy’s inefficiencies, defense and corporate profits continue to soar. In light of the election results, will we see new tax breaks for the 1% thinly veiled as fiscal “belt-tightening” while the public funds genocidal wars? Can we the people understand how this all functions and begin to organize to push back? 

Well, I don’t have the answers to these questions, but maybe our guest today can help to get us on the right track, please welcome Clara Mattei!

"Before diving into the banter and, yes, the inevitable dick jokes, let’s start by acknowledging some of the frustration that many of you out there might be feeling right now. Whether you voted blue, opted for a third party, or abstained from voting altogether, it’s safe to say there's a lot to process.

Now, while tonight’s episode won’t delve into the ins and outs of political strategy or the latest electoral breakdowns, it’s worth reminding ourselves why shows like this one are more than just sports talk. In a field so dominated by right-wing narratives around labor—particularly in sports, where so many of us come for player stats and behind-the-scenes scoops—pushing back against anti-labor sentiments is essential.

Just on my way here to TJ, I caught a segment of the Colin Cowherd show, where he actually celebrated football’s ‘superiority’ because of the NFL players’ weak labor union. He touted the idea that a lack of labor power somehow keeps players from ‘ruining the game’ by asking for fair pay. Meanwhile, Boeing workers recently achieved a significant victory through a two-month strike, winning a higher pension match and better pay. As leftists, we see labor victories as essential, not greedy or selfish. True solidarity is realized through labor struggles, and it’s these hard-won gains that we ought to champion—not demonize.

Alright, with that necessary preamble out of the way, let me bring in my co-host Mac, and let the jokes begin!"

Welcome to the Champagne Room, a unique space where music and politics intertwine. In this episode, we explore the dynamics of creating the perfect club atmosphere, characterized by music and a selection of drinks that ranges from Bud Light to top-shelf scotch. The host reflects on the experience of hosting an early show, discussing the turnout and the challenges of scheduling guests.

We delve into the intricacies of identifying a 'whale' in the club scene, while also addressing the political landscape post-election. The conversation shifts to the cultural shifts in America, touching on issues like the public's reaction to elections, the influence of reality TV on perceptions, and the ongoing debates surrounding social issues.

The episode also critiques the portrayal of success and reality in media, drawing parallels between political figures and the entertainment industry. With engaging anecdotes and reflections, this episode provides a thought-provoking look at how culture and politics shape public perception and behavior.

Introduction: Horror Tropes and the Legacy of "Teens in the Woods"

Welcome back to *THIS IS REVOLUTION* where we never apologize for our taste! At TIR, we reject the concept of “guilty pleasures.” Whether it’s low-budget films, DIY music, or bootleg swap meet finds—we embrace it all. And if there’s one genre that pulls us in, it’s horror. Today, we're diving into perhaps the most enduring horror trope: the “teenagers camping in the woods” genre, a setup that begins with ordinary characters and quickly descends into terror and survival.

This genre arguably gained its iconic standing with the *Friday the 13th* franchise, where a vengeful, silent figure haunts unsuspecting teens for their “sins” or simply for being there. What began with an act of vengeance in the original *Friday the 13th* became something far darker—a formula that ultimately evolved into a chilling commentary on innocence, power, and punishment. With sequels piling up, Jason Voorhees’ motive shifts from vengeance to something closer to a ritualistic bloodlust, a reflection of the franchise's own bloodthirsty popularity. 

But what do these stories reveal about our society’s anxieties and about the "rules" that horror fans know all too well? Films like *The Cabin in the Woods* take this trope further, using it as a meta-commentary on the genre itself—introducing archetypal characters and scenarios as intentionally manipulated constructs, while weaving in a dark critique on our endless hunger for violence as entertainment. Today, we’re taking a closer look at these “teen slasher” tropes and what makes this genre so unforgettable. Let’s dissect the horror, the satire, and the complex politics of punishment and voyeurism that keep audiences coming back for more.

This exploration into horror classics and their archetypal characters isn’t just about scares—it’s about understanding our collective psyche. The “teens in the woods” trope reveals as much about our cultural anxieties and contradictions as it does about our cinematic tastes.

Ben is back and discussing with Stefan some strange features of Libertarian faux-metaphysics

Read Ben's Substack here:https://substack.com/@benburgis

Introduction

The exorcism genre holds a unique place in horror, often drawing on themes of innocence, spiritual warfare, and patriarchal power structures. While its narratives are typically formulaic, revolving around a “possessed” figure (often a young girl) and priests arriving to cast out the demon, the genre also reflects broader societal anxieties about bodily autonomy, religious authority, and family dynamics. Many exorcism films lean heavily on cultural tropes, with a few standing out for their engagement with more complex themes or departures from genre norms. 

Today, we’ll explore five significant exorcism films, from iconic classics to new interpretations, analyzing how each interacts with the genre’s conventions and challenges them to varying degrees. Here’s our list:

1. The Exorcist

 William Friedkin’s The Exorcist (1973) is the foundational work of exorcism horror, causing a stir for its visceral portrayal of demonic possession and controversial religious imagery. The infamous production faced numerous setbacks, often seen as reflecting the turmoil depicted onscreen. This film’s critical reception and lasting impact reveal how effectively it tapped into societal anxieties of the 1970s.  

2. Exorcist III

Written and directed by The Exorcist author William Peter Blatty, Exorcist III (1990) continues the narrative with a fresh perspective, emphasizing psychological horror over shock value. Blatty’s direction draws on philosophical themes, creating one of the genre’s most introspective entries. Many consider it a more layered and, in some ways, superior work to Friedkin’s original.

3. The Exorcism of Emily Rose 

The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005) marks a genre revival that experiments with the "based on a true story" approach. This film combines courtroom drama with horror, exploring themes of faith, science, and institutional power. It questions societal definitions of sanity and the legitimacy of religious experiences in a secular world, creating a nuanced discussion on mental health and belief.

4. Late Night with the Devil

The newest on our list, Late Night with the Devil (2023), departs from genre norms by framing possession within the setting of a fictional 1970s talk show. This film is a genre-bending take, blending exorcism horror with cultural satire on sensationalized media, reminiscent of the era’s late-night television programming. It plays with the exorcism format while commenting on the media as a modern “exorcist,” claiming to expose dark secrets.

5. Il Demonio (The Demon)

As one of the earliest entries in exorcism horror, Il Demonio (1963) is an Italian film often overlooked. It visualizes the exorcism genre’s gendered dynamics, with a narrative that intersects spousal abuse, mental illness, and patriarchal control. The film uses demonic possession as a metaphor for the internalized violence faced by women under societal and marital oppression, offering a critical lens on traditional power structures.

These films offer a window into not only horror but broader social and cultural anxieties. Each one engages with themes of power, authority, and the societal “other,” reminding us of the genre’s unique capacity to critique and unsettle dominant narratives.

Discourse around the Palestinian genocide suggests that we have a moral obligation to 'not look away' from gory and horrifying images, Stefan assess if these claims have any merit.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop

Should private equity help form a super conference? If so what does that mean for college athletics? 

Also, should leftists infiltrate law enforcement?

LISTEN TO CHAMPAGNE SHARKS HERE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/champagne-sharks/id1242690393

Welcome to another episode of THIS IS REVOLUTION>podcast, where we explore the deeper political and social dynamics behind current events. Today, we’re diving into the recent indictment of once-revered hip hop mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs on federal racketeering charges. Combs, once celebrated for his entrepreneurial prowess and impact on hip hop culture, is now facing serious accusations of running an elaborate criminal enterprise centered on human trafficking, abuse, and sexual exploitation.

The charges against Combs are shocking but reflect the darker realities lurking behind the glamor of the entertainment industry. As outlined by the justice.gov indictment, Combs is accused of forcing women into "Freak Offs"—elaborate sex performances orchestrated through coercion, violence, and manipulation. He allegedly used narcotics, financial dependency, and physical threats to control his victims, echoing the practices of global human trafficking networks. This brings to mind a broader and more disturbing reality: are we confronting this issue with the seriousness it demands, or are we only shocked when such allegations involve a high-profile celebrity?

While the focus is on Combs now, we must also recognize that these charges are not isolated to one individual. The exploitation of women and their commodification through violence, coercion, and control is a pervasive and deeply entrenched issue in capitalist society—one where power dynamics are exploited to maintain control and assert dominance. These behaviors are happening right now in some corners of the world and for years they’ve been glorified in the hip hop community. It’s just pimping, and as the song says, it ain’t easy.

Is hip hop having a “mask off” moment? With the Combs and Young Thug trials, do these legal proceedings have a negative effect on the genre or the way it’s perceived? Rap music, once thought to embody “realness” in the case of Young Thug, is being challenged on its authenticity. It’s never really been fantasy escapism, but “the unreported news” of the inner city told by the people that lived it. In the case of Young Thug, is this all a lie now? Is it what people like Gerald Horne and Stanley Crouch have viewed? A minstrel show of underclass troupes?

In the case of Combs, the pimp has been a glorified figure for some time in Black urban life. Isn’t Puffy nothing more than a modern iteration of Max Julien in The Mack?  

Today, we will discuss the nature of these crimes, the structural realities that enable them, and what this case reveals about our collective attitudes toward abuse, celebrity culture, and power. Are we finally waking up to the harsh realities of human trafficking, or do we still turn a blind eye until a famous name is attached to it?

Welcome to "Philosophy for the People" with Stefan Bertram. In this episode, Stefan explores the intricate concept of masculinity in the contemporary world. With co-host Ben absent, Stefan takes a deep dive into the evolving identity of men, the diminishing gender gap, and the role of feminism in reshaping male self-perception.

Amidst personal anecdotes and humorous reflections, Stefan addresses the complexities of gender equality and the societal shifts that have brought men and women closer than ever in terms of rights and opportunities. He delves into the historical context of gender roles, highlighting how the past decades have redefined what it means to be a man or a woman.

Stefan also examines the influence of modern movements and ideologies on male identity, touching upon the rise of incels, the impact of feminism, and the psychological introspection prevalent in today's society. With a critical eye, he questions the traditional notions of manhood and the challenges men face in navigating a world where gender dynamics are continuously evolving.

Tune in to gain insight into the philosophical underpinnings of gender identity and the societal forces shaping the modern man's role in a rapidly changing world.

Welcome to another episode of THIS IS REVOLUTION>podcast, where we go beyond the typical election season chatter to explore the deeper political landscapes shaping our world. As we approach the U.S. presidential election, much of the media will focus on poll numbers, political ads, and electoral horse races. In 2024, politics has become more akin to team sports, where tribal loyalties and spectacle often replace substantive policy debates. But instead of playing the same game, today we’re turning our attention to Latin America, where political struggles reveal more about the urgent global fight for justice and democracy.

Our guest today is Nando Villa, the producer of the documentary The Ecuadorian Candidate, which follows the candidacy of young left-wing economist Andrés Arauz as he runs for the presidency of Ecuador. Arauz faced a formidable opponent in Guillermo Lasso, a wealthy conservative banker. The documentary captures Arauz’s efforts to unite fractured left movements and appeal to the Ecuadorian electorate in the hope of building a progressive future. 

This film goes beyond just one election—it highlights the broader struggles of the Latin American left in the face of neoliberal hegemony and the complex political terrain of the region. We’ll dive deep into these themes and ask what lessons can be learned from Arauz’s campaign for those fighting for progressive change around the world.

Stefan goes on a bit of a rant!

Read Ben's substack here: https://benburgis.substack.com/

The guest didn't show, so J went on a bit of a rant about the industry around podcast gossip, the year in music 1994, and why Blizzard of OZ is the first hair metal record. Enjoy.

Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop

Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH!

Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents?

Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!)

THANKS Y'ALL

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg

Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/

Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland

Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles

Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/

Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

The Crüe listens to a voting anthem sung by the cast of Hamilton, then Jason shows a movie (The Lost Empire 1984) and Pascal accidentally ends the stream! 

J and Mac talk sports, then as usual--it goes off the goddamn rails. 

Lawless Brewing Co.

Use code CARROTRAISIN for a discount for the book launch event in L.A.

Click here for tickets: https://shorturl.at/BW1hd

One Year in Gaza

Introduction

As we mark one year of the genocidal war in Palestine, the world is beginning to recognize the brutal reality of Israel’s continued bombardment and occupation of Palestinian territories. Global consciousness is shifting, with more people protesting and challenging the once unquestioned narrative of Israel as a state acting in self-defense. Yet, in the United States, the propaganda machine remains relentless, framing this conflict through a lens that supports maintaining the status quo—a lens shaped by decades of bipartisan support for Israel's aggressive policies. As war continues to be a point of consensus across the political spectrum, what does this mean for Palestinians caught in a violent cycle of occupation, bombings, and systemic oppression? What will this mean in an election year, when U.S. political leaders prioritize military alliances over justice? The possibility of this war escalating into a global conflict grows ever more real, and the failure to challenge the dominant narrative only brings us closer to catastrophe.

Israel’s actions—its illegal settlements, the ongoing siege of Gaza, and the relentless attacks on Palestinian civilians—are not simply matters of foreign policy but integral to U.S. interests in the Middle East. American imperialism and military aid to Israel help sustain the occupation, entrenching the power dynamics that allow such violence to continue. For the Palestinians, this war represents not just a moment of acute suffering but a continuation of decades of displacement, apartheid, and denial of their right to self-determination. As we reflect on one year of this genocidal campaign, we must also confront the moral and political bankruptcy of a global system that allows this to happen with impunity.

Jason inputs his upcoming hair metal article into a AI podcast generator and the Crüe roasts some played out fashions from the 90s. Enjoy. 

The Crüe watches  Coats attack on CBS and more fun videos. 

Read Matthew's substack here: https://matthewvernonwhalan.substack.com/

Introduction

On today’s episode of THIS IS REVOLUTION podcast, we confront the stark realities of the U.S. carceral system, focusing on the brutal conditions inside Alabama’s prisons. The U.S. is notorious for having the highest incarceration rate in the world, and Alabama stands out as a grim case study of what many scholars and activists have long called a form of modern slavery. The state’s prison system is severely overcrowded, underfunded, and rife with violence, neglect, and systemic abuse. With prisoners subjected to inhumane living conditions, forced labor, and an indifferent legal system, Alabama’s prisons highlight the broader contradictions of a capitalist society that profits off of punishment and exploitation rather than rehabilitation and justice.

Our guest today, journalist Matthew Whalan, has dedicated his work to uncovering these harsh realities, particularly through his Substack article, "A Life in Alabama Prison", and a recent interview that has brought attention to the horrific living conditions behind bars. His reporting sheds light on the voices of those often silenced, emphasizing the daily indignities, brutality, and neglect that people incarcerated in Alabama face. Whalan’s work helps us grasp not only the human cost of incarceration but also the structural forces that perpetuate it, including racial and economic inequality, capitalist exploitation, and political neglect.

As we delve into this discussion, we must ask ourselves: what does the treatment of prisoners in Alabama reveal about the broader U.S. prison-industrial complex? How do these systems of punishment maintain and reinforce the racial and class hierarchies on which American capitalism is built? Whalan’s work encourages us to move beyond liberal reforms and understand the carceral system as a fundamental pillar of capitalist exploitation—a system in which prisons function not as institutions of rehabilitation but as warehouses for surplus populations deemed disposable by the state.

Read Ben's Substack here: https://benburgis.substack.com/

The gang is joined by 1st hour guest Vanessa Wills and watch some funny videos, and one video about looting as praxis. Enjoy!

GET VANESSA WILLS BOOK HERE:  https://shorturl.at/BoUGp

Introduction

In her groundbreaking book Marx's Ethical Vision, Vanessa Wills offers a profound exploration of the often-overlooked ethical dimensions of Karl Marx’s work. While Marx is frequently reduced to economic and materialist analysis, Wills demonstrates that Marx’s critique of capitalism is deeply moral, rooted in a vision of human flourishing, social justice, and the development of a fully realized human community. As she writes, "Marx's vision was not simply a denunciation of capitalism’s economic structures, but a call for an emancipatory transformation that would allow humanity to fulfill its potential through collective self-determination and freedom" (Marx's Ethical Vision, p. 48). This framing gives us a fresh lens through which to understand Marx, not merely as a critic of economic systems, but as a moral philosopher concerned with the ethical implications of alienation, exploitation, and human suffering.

In today’s conversation, we will dive deep into Wills’s analysis, discussing how Marx’s ethical commitments underpin his revolutionary politics and what relevance they hold in contemporary struggles for social justice. We’ll explore the intersection of ethics and politics in Marx’s thought, touching on themes like alienation, labor, and human freedom, and consider how Marx's ethical vision might inform today’s movements for social and economic liberation.

Watching an NFL pregame show today feels less like a breakdown of the upcoming contests and more like an exercise in oddsmakers reducing the game's strategy to betting talk. Fantasy sports have long been the gateway drug into the sports betting app economy. Now, sports punditry mimics the shock-jock antics of the '90s, turning analysis into a hyper-commercialized spectacle of “hot or not” takes. 

Let’s consider the legendary 1983 draft class. Hall of Famers, including three elite quarterbacks, emerged from that round, yet how many Super Bowls did they collectively win? Just two, both by John Elway. Dan Marino, arguably one of the most talented quarterbacks of all time, appeared in a single Super Bowl after obliterating passing records in 1984, an era where the run game was king. Yet despite Marino's historic success, his classmate Eric Dickerson would never touch a Super Bowl trophy either, even after setting an NFL record for rushing yards in a season.

Now, imagine these legendary players in today’s era, where success is too often framed through the lens of fantasy sports and app-based betting. Could they withstand the media’s hunger for instant success or survive the ruthless churn of the 24-hour sports news cycle?

Take the 2024 season. Players once written off as "busts" are starting to rewrite their stories. Malik Willis, discarded as an afterthought in Tennessee, is showing flashes of brilliance. Sam Darnold, written off in New York and quickly traded, has found new life as a backup-turned-starter. Jared Goff, shipped off to Detroit as a disappointment, has led the Lions to NFC North contention. In the pre-fantasy sports world, these players would have had time to grow into their roles, but today's instant-gratification culture has no room for slow-burning talent. 

Pundits already labeled the 2024 first overall pick, Caleb Williams, a bust after just three games. Bryce Young, last year’s first pick, faced the same brutal criticism even before his rookie season ended. Compare that to the ’83 draft class, who were given time to play through rookie mistakes and eventually lead teams to the playoffs, even Super Bowls. But in this hyper-commercialized, short-term focused environment, teams cut bait on young talent before it has time to develop, driven by media narratives and the endless thirst for immediate returns.

Sports betting and fantasy leagues have fueled this culture of rapid turnover. It’s no longer about team-building or long-term development. The market dictates which players are valuable, not for their contributions on the field, but for how well they perform against the betting lines or in fantasy stats. In our current epoch, we want what we want, when we want it, with little patience for process or growth. Has this commodification of athletes killed player development?

We’ll dive into this on today’s episode.

Clark and I have a fun sports and music talk, where Clark explains why Kendrick Lamar is overrated and Lil Wayne should be playing the super bowl. There's also some trash rapper video commentary. Good times. 

Read Clark's work here: https://shorturl.at/XvteW

Introduction

Watching sports has always been a communal experience, a moment to witness skill, strategy, and competition. But these days, for many people, simply “watching the game” seems to be a thing of the past. The line between spectatorship and speculation has blurred, thanks to the rise of fantasy sports and the explosion of legal sports betting across the United States. As I sat at my favorite bar watching last night’s Monday Night Football doubleheader, it became clear that the focus of contemporary sports coverage is no longer on the game itself, but on the odds, prop bets, and over/unders. What used to be a pastime has transformed into a calculated, quantified experience, where every throw, every yard, and every touchdown is tied to a monetary wager.

The commodification of sports through the lens of gambling has created a new form of alienation. Fans are no longer simply enjoying a game but engaging in what amounts to a mass, profit-driven enterprise designed to exploit their passions. The apps, sponsorships, and partnerships with gambling companies make placing bets easier and more normalized than ever before. But who really wins in this system?

Our guest today, Clark Randle, a journalist for *Jacobin* magazine, argues that it’s not the fans who are winning. In his latest article, "Make Sports Betting Taboo Again," he shows that the real losers are downwardly mobile young men, whose participation in sports betting often deepens their financial precarity. As states rake in the tax revenue from legalized gambling, the social costs mount. Clark challenges us to reconsider our normalization of sports betting and asks: where should the Left draw the line in a world of hyper-liberalized consumption?

Introduction

Recently, political commentator and NGO CEO, Angela Rye appeared on The Breakfast Club morning show, engaging with Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein and her running mate Butch Ware. Rye wasted no time in attacking Stein, invoking the well-worn "spoiler" argument, often cited by liberals and conservative critics alike, framing this election as "the most important of our time." This rhetoric pits a perceived fascism from the right against a supposed fascism from the left, which conveniently reinforces the capitalist status quo by limiting political debate to the narrow confines of the two-party system.

In her critique, Rye portrayed Stein as a political failure, dismissing her candidacy as a distraction from the "real issues" facing Black Americans. This critique, however, serves to obscure the reality that Stein, while flawed, represents a political platform far to the left of anything the Democratic Party offers. Stein’s Green Party candidacy pushes for policies that directly confront the neoliberal and imperialist frameworks of both major parties, a fact seemingly lost on Rye, who positions herself as a spokesperson for the 41 million Black Americans.

Rye’s role in this context mirrors what Adolph Reed Jr. critiqued over three decades ago in his collection of essays, Class Notes. In the chapter titled “What Are the Drums Saying, Booker?”, Reed describes how Black public intellectuals often serve as intermediaries for white audiences, performing an interpretation of the "Black experience" that suits liberal sensibilities. Rye’s race reductionist arguments, presented as radical critiques, actually reinforce the logic of liberal pluralism and identity politics, reducing complex issues like capitalism, imperialism, and class struggle to mere questions of racial representation.

While Rye has occasionally voiced concern over U.S.-backed atrocities, such as the genocidal war in Gaza, her alignment with Kamala Harris—a Black woman who has publicly supported Israel’s right to "defend itself"—underscores her complicity in the very structures of imperialism she claims to oppose. This reflects a broader tendency in the liberal racial discourse, where race-conscious rhetoric is weaponized to justify imperialist and capitalist policies under the guise of representation. 

In essence, Rye is engaging in what might be termed "race-conscious imperialism," using racial identity as a shield for defending a capitalist-imperialist agenda. This is a continuation of the tradition Reed identified—one where race is used to deflect from class struggle and systemic critique, ensuring that neoliberal capitalism remains unchallenged, even when presented as a fight for racial justice.

MT shows Jason the internet gossip around Andrew Schultz and two Black Brits. 

Introduction

Recently, during a trip to San Francisco, I witnessed a family, awestruck, stepping out of a driverless car—a vivid reminder of the city's dual realities. On one hand, San Francisco remains a global tech hub, a gleaming symbol of neoliberal capitalism's promise of innovation. On the other, the glaring failures of this same system are evident in the staggering number of unhoused people lining the streets. Walking into a McDonald's, I was struck by the ubiquity of automated kiosks and mobile apps, making the labor force practically invisible. 

While many on the left celebrate labor victories at Starbucks, the struggles of fast food workers remain underemphasized. The "Fight for 15" campaign—a demand that would still leave workers in poverty in cities like San Francisco—highlights the grim reality. Although California's minimum wage is higher, 20 states still cling to the federal minimum wage of $7.25. The specter of automation is wielded as a fear mongering tactic, used to suppress labor demands, but this is a decades-old strategy to prevent worker solidarity. 

As Alex Park argues in his article for *Jacobin*, **"Raise Wages? No Need—McDonald's Is Hiring Inmates Instead"**, the fear of robots replacing workers is a distraction from neoliberal capitalism's deeper exploitations. Park writes:

> "In Toronto, the salad and smoothie chain Freshii came under fire two years ago for outsourcing order-taking to workers in Nicaragua, beamed to customers through a video conferencing system."

This practice, while momentarily halted, continues in other forms, with companies like Happy Cashier exploiting virtual labor from the Global South. 

Park also raises the specter of child labor, a grim reminder of how low-wage industries exploit the most vulnerable. According to the Economic Policy Institute, cases of child labor violations in fast food have more than tripled from 2015 to 2022. Meanwhile, states like Alabama are passing laws to weaken child labor protections, legalizing what is already happening under the radar. 

The reality is that automation, child labor, and even prison labor aren’t inevitable byproducts of technological progress. They are deliberate strategies under neoliberal capitalism to drive down wages and weaken worker solidarity, ensuring the continuous extraction of profit from marginalized labor. Tonight, we will delve into Alex Park’s work and discuss how to resist these exploitative tactics and build a global working-class movement in solidarity with fast food workers.

This past NFL weekend reminded us that flashes of brilliance in a preseason game from highly touted rookies often don't translate directly into regular-season success, at least not right away. Transitioning to the NFL isn't simply about individual talent—it’s a process that requires time, adaptation to complex systems, and team cohesion. But in a league where players are commodified and thrown into media narratives driven by a capitalist sports industry, these athletes are often set up for failure.

Take Caleb Williams, the number one overall pick. His potential is undeniable, but the Bears were never just one player away from being a contender. They’re a franchise that has long been defined by its defensive legacy, not its quarterbacks. Cutting ties with Justin Fields too early in their desperate search for a savior QB reflects a broader problem: the NFL’s obsession with immediate results and marketability over long-term team-building. 

This commodification is part of a larger issue in sports today. In the post-Moneyball era, franchises often treat players like marketable assets rather than focusing on sustainable success. The media plays a crucial role in this, constructing simplified, binary narratives of failure or success to feed a 24-hour sports cycle largely driven by gambling interests. When an athlete struggles, like Sam Darnold did with the Jets, they’re labeled a "bust" without recognizing the systemic failures that contributed to their struggles. Now, Darnold is proving his potential in Minnesota, throwing a beautiful 97-yard touchdown pass to Justin Jefferson, showing what he can do when provided with a functional system and offensive weapons.

The media and the sports industry rely on these narratives, particularly when it comes to quarterbacks. Figures like Brock Purdy, who wasn’t highly touted coming out of college, face constant skepticism even when they succeed. Their talent is questioned, not because of their play, but because they don’t fit into the hyper-commercialized mold of what a “star quarterback” should look like.

We need to start asking bigger questions: are players like C.J. Stroud thriving solely because of their talent, or do they benefit from better organizational structures than their peers? How much of the success and failure we assign to individual players is actually rooted in the deeper systemic issues within the capitalist machine of modern sports? Why are young quarterbacks given all the blame while the broader economic and management failures of their teams go unchecked?

We'll discuss this and more in today's episode.