Freedom Over Fascism: Fireside Chats

I talked to Dean Blundell on a live show yesterday, and we got into the value of shared reality, truth, values in order to build a society that’s good for everyone. I asked him about his radically creative ideas for rebuilding America, just like I ask everyone.Please subscribe to Freedom Over Fascism at www.freedomoverfascism.us. Part of the Democracy Group of Podcasts.

In this conversation, Stephanie Gerber Wilson speaks with Dr. Deborah Shushan about the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, particularly in relation to Saudi Arabia and the implications of MBS's recent visit to Washington. They discuss the historical context of U.S.-Saudi relations, the Khashoggi incident, and the intertwining of corruption and authoritarianism in current politics. The conversation highlights the need for a reevaluation of U.S. foreign policy and the importance of human rights in international relations.Please subscribe to Freedom Over Fascism at www.freedomoverfascism.us. Part of the Democracy Group of Podcasts.

Marlon Weems and Stephanie Gerber Wilson discuss a range of topics including this history of racialized America, how aggressive federalism might work, state power, and the challenges facing the Democratic Party; ie they don't know how to wield power. They delve into the historical context of racism and slavery, interrogate the concept of whiteness, and explore the implications of these issues in contemporary society. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a more assertive political strategy and the importance of understanding the historical roots of current social dynamics.

The conversation delves into the themes of institutional breakdown, democratic erosion, and the global power dynamics and risk assessment. It explores the significance of the current moment, the impact of the World Economic Forum, and the rupture of the world order, as well as the implications for the United States and the global economy. The conversation delves into the assessment of threats and posturing, the impact of leadership changes on military behavior, and the implications of national security planning and ideological shifts. It explores the duty of the military to not follow unlawful orders and the erosion of military guardrails due to leadership changes. Additionally, it discusses the impact of ideological shifts on national security planning and the behavior of military personnel.TakeawaysInstitutional breakdown and democratic erosionGlobal power dynamics and risk assessment Military duty to not follow unlawful ordersImpact of leadership changes on military behaviorChapters00:00 Impact on the United States and Global Economy32:00 Assessing Threats and Posturing43:07 Military Guardrails and Leadership56:03 National Security Planning and Ideological Shifts

Amanda Litman, founder of Run for Something, discusses the importance of local leadership and the impact of young, diverse candidates in politics. She emphasizes the need for authentic, human-centered leadership and the role of mentorship in shaping the future of politics. The conversation also explores the significance of grassroots activism and the power of community engagement in driving meaningful change.TakeawaysLocal leadership is crucial for driving change and progress in communities.Authenticity, mentorship, and human-centered leadership are essential qualities for effective political leadership.Chapters00:00 Empowering Activists and Engaging Locally

In this conversation, Doug Friednash discusses the intersection of law and politics, focusing on the legal avenues available at local and state levels to address pressing issues such as immigration policy, community protection, and the role of grassroots activism. He emphasizes the importance of leadership, public trust in media, and the need for a unified message to engage voters effectively. The discussion also touches on the current state of democracy, the impact of federal leadership, and the necessity for long-term planning in political strategy.TakeawaysThe separation of powers is crucial in today's political climate.Local leaders play a vital role in community protection.Public trust in media is alarmingly low.Democratic leadership must become more proactive.The state of democracy is concerning and needs attention.The DOJ's actions reflect a troubling trend in governance.Distractions in political discourse can undermine important issues.Immigration enforcement requires significant reform.Grassroots activism is essential for political change.Long-term planning is necessary for effective political strategy.TitlesNavigating Legal Avenues in PoliticsState vs. Federal: The Power StruggleSound bites"We need to unify our message.""Activism starts at the local level.""We need leaders with a plan."Keywordslegal avenues, immigration policy, grassroots activism, state government, public trust, democracy, leadership, political strategy, community protection, media influence

KeywordsProject 2112, ex-vangelicals, Christian nationalism, community building, authoritarianism, evangelicalism, cognitive dissonance, curiosity, Seven Mountains mandate, IsraelSummaryIn this conversation, Heather Cronk, founder of Project 2112, discusses her journey from evangelicalism to organizing ex-vangelicals against rising Christian nationalism. She shares insights on the importance of community building, the impact of cognitive dissonance, and the need for curiosity in conversations about faith and politics. The discussion also delves into the authoritarian tendencies within evangelicalism, the significance of Israel in evangelical theology, and the Seven Mountains mandate, which outlines a strategy for Christian dominion over various societal sectors. Heather emphasizes the importance of creating alternative spaces for ex-vangelicals and the need for empathy and understanding in bridging divides.

I spoke with Anat Shenker-Osorio about the current political climate, the importance of narrative control, and the need for accountability in leadership. They discuss the interconnectedness of domestic and foreign issues, the limitations of voting as a means of achieving democracy, and the necessity of collective action and general strikes. Anat emphasizes the importance of naming the threat of fascism and the role of leadership in mobilizing resistance against the MAGA regime.

In this conversation, Stephanie interviews Vaughn Joy about her book 'Selling Out Santa,' which explores the cultural significance of Christmas films in Hollywood during the post-World War II era. The discussion delves into how these films reflect American identity, the impact of McCarthyism and the blacklist on Hollywood, the evolution of gender roles, and the representation of race and sexuality in Christmas cinema. Joy emphasizes the secular nature of American Christmas and how films served as social mirrors, revealing the ideological conservatism of the time.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Freedom Over Fascism and Guest Introduction02:31 Exploring 'Selling Out Santa' and Its Cultural Significance05:32 The Role of Christmas Films in American Identity07:42 Secular vs. Religious Christmas: A Cultural Discussion10:27 Hollywood's Response to McCarthyism and the Blacklist12:46 The Shift in Film Content Post-Blacklist15:15 The Ideological Influence of Ayn Rand on Hollywood17:48 The Evolution of Gender Roles in Christmas Films20:05 Race and Representation in Christmas Cinema22:27 The Impact of the Hays Code on Film Content25:09 Teenage Representation in Christmas Films27:22 Conclusion and Reflections on Cultural Narratives

In this conversation, Stephanie Gerber Wilson and Dr. Deborah Shushan explore the complexities of the Jewish American community's response to the Israel-Palestine conflict, particularly in light of recent events. They discuss the historical context, the impact of October 7th, and the divisions within the community regarding support for Israel and the Palestinian cause. The conversation delves into the narratives that shape identity, the role of education, and the generational differences in perspectives on Israel. They also touch on the political dynamics influencing the conflict and the broader implications for American democracy.

In this episode of Freedom Over Fascism, Dr. Stephanie Gerber Wilson interviews Christopher Armitage, who discusses the concept of 'soft succession' as a means for states to combat federal overreach and preserve democracy. Armitage emphasizes the importance of anti-corruption measures, creating parallel social safety nets, and engaging in local politics to effectively resist fascism. He advocates for sustained activism and community involvement as essential strategies for change.takeawaysSoft succession is about empowering states to resist federal overreach.Anti-corruption efforts are crucial for restoring democracy.States can create parallel social safety nets to protect citizens.Engaging in local politics is vital for meaningful change.Activism should focus on small, sustained actions over time.Negotiating with the federal government can involve withholding tax revenue.Educating the public is the first step in activism.Building community and culture is essential for long-term resistance.Local elections are key to fighting back against fascism.A vision for a post-fascist future includes universal education and basic income.titlesEmpowering States: A New Approach to DemocracySoft Succession: Resisting Federal OverreachSound Bites"We can't rely on the Department of Justice anymore.""We need to create parallel social safety nets.""We need to build a culture around activism."Chapters00:00Introduction to Soft Secession and Its Importance05:20Empowering States Against Federal Overreach10:14Funding State Initiatives and Social Safety Nets15:32Anti-Corruption Measures and Restoring Oversight19:41Creating Collaborative State Solutions23:18Engaging with State Leaders and Public Consensus27:03Counterarguments and the Need for Bold Actions29:26The Rise of Authoritarianism33:28Strategies for Resistance39:21Activism and Community Engagement47:51Local Politics and Long-Term Change49:45Envisioning a Post-Fascist Future

Stephanie talks to independent journalistZev Shalevof Narativ.org about his extensive investigation into financial crimes and political corruption. They explore the implications of newly released emails involving Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, Michael Wolf, and figures like Donald Trump and Prince Andrew. The discussion delves into the history of financial collapses since the 1987 stock market crash, the 2008 financial crisis, and the current state of cryptocurrency. Zev connects these events to a network of individuals who have extracted vast wealth from the American economy, posing significant challenges to democracy. The conversation also touches on the moral implications for American Jews and the rising tide of antisemitism.00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties01:56 Breaking News: New Emails Released03:13 Epstein, Maxwell, and Trump: The Email Connections13:47 Historical Context and Implications18:16 Financial Crimes and the 2008 Collapse24:50 Cryptocurrency and Economic Manipulation32:33 Uncovering Mortgage Fraud and Market Manipulation34:35 The Role of Jeffrey Epstein in Financial Corruption37:37 The Impact of Financial Crimes on American Society39:20 The Rise of Economic Inequality43:47 The Role of Legislation in Financial Crises49:49 The Intersection of Financial Crimes and Antisemitism52:37 The Importance of Speaking Out Against Injustice55:59 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action#FinancialCrimes #PoliticalCorruption #JeffreyEpstein #TrumpScandals #Cryptocurrency #EconomicInequality #Antisemitism #2008FinancialCrisis #WallStreet #FreedomOverFascism #NarativPlease subscribe to Freedom Over Fascism at www.freedomoverfascism.us. Part of the Democracy Group of Podcasts.

Stephanie talks to independent journalistZev Shalevof Narativ.org about his extensive investigation into financial crimes and political corruption. They explore the implications of newly released emails involving Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, Michael Wolf, and figures like Donald Trump and Prince Andrew. The discussion delves into the history of financial collapses since the 1987 stock market crash, the 2008 financial crisis, and the current state of cryptocurrency. Zev connects these events to a network of individuals who have extracted vast wealth from the American economy, posing significant challenges to democracy. The conversation also touches on the moral implications for American Jews and the rising tide of antisemitism.00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties01:56 Breaking News: New Emails Released03:13 Epstein, Maxwell, and Trump: The Email Connections13:47 Historical Context and Implications18:16 Financial Crimes and the 2008 Collapse24:50 Cryptocurrency and Economic Manipulation32:33 Uncovering Mortgage Fraud and Market Manipulation34:35 The Role of Jeffrey Epstein in Financial Corruption37:37 The Impact of Financial Crimes on American Society39:20 The Rise of Economic Inequality43:47 The Role of Legislation in Financial Crises49:49 The Intersection of Financial Crimes and Antisemitism52:37 The Importance of Speaking Out Against Injustice55:59 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action#FinancialCrimes #PoliticalCorruption #JeffreyEpstein #TrumpScandals #Cryptocurrency #EconomicInequality #Antisemitism #2008FinancialCrisis #WallStreet #FreedomOverFascism #NarativPlease subscribe to Freedom Over Fascism at www.freedomoverfascism.us. Part of the Democracy Group of Podcasts.

KeywordsFreedom Over Fascism, Substack, media landscape, independent writers, community building, political engagement, funding in media, COVID impact, storytelling, future of mediaSummaryIn this engaging conversation, the speakers discuss the evolution of media, particularly focusing on the rise of Substack and its implications for independent writers. Marlon shares his journey from Wall Street to becoming a writer, highlighting the challenges faced by smaller creators in a landscape dominated by larger, funded entities. The discussion also touches on the importance of community building, the impact of COVID on media, and the need for innovative solutions to address current political and social issues.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Freedom Over Fascism02:39 Marlon's Journey from Wall Street to Writing05:00 The Impact of COVID on Writing and Media08:04 Substack: The New Media Landscape10:39 Challenges for Independent Writers13:16 The Role of Funding in Media15:47 Building Community in the Digital Age18:31 The Future of Media and Political Engagement21:19 Creative Solutions for a New Era24:13 Closing Thoughts and Future DirectionsPlease subscribe to Freedom Over Fascism at www.freedomoverfascism.us. Part of the Democracy Group of Podcasts.

Stephanie talks to Courtney Teasley, an attorney, business coach, educator, podcaster, and author dedicated to disrupting oppressive systems through legal literacy. Courtney shares her journey from practicing law straight out of school to coaching other lawyers and educating communities about their rights. She discusses her proactive approach to combating systemic issues like mass incarceration, emphasizing the importance of legal and civic literacy starting from a young age. Please subscribe here and at www.freedomoverfascism.us #LegalLiteracy #CriminalJusticeReform #KnowYourRights #Education #CommunityEmpowerment00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:10 Courtney Teasley's Mission and Background02:08 Current Political Climate and Its Impact 05:01 Local Legal Advocacy and Community Involvement07:30 DAMM Advocate Training and Proactive Legal Strategies 11:05 Courtroom Preparation and Overcoming Bias 11:41 Success Stories and Real-World Applications 14:27 Challenges of Code Switching and Cultural Acceptance 20:06 Mock Trials and Training Techniques 22:01 Preparing Marginalized Communities for Court 23:05 Addressing Mass Incarceration 23:41 Coaching Lawyers and Advocates 25:20 Legal Literacy and Community Advocacy 26:56 Proactive Education and Its Impact 27:16 Evaluating Success and Community Impact 29:32 Empowering Through Legal Literacy 34:49 Systemic Issues and Individual Solutions 39:45 Building a New Society with Radical Creativity 42:17 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationCourtney can be found at  @blacklawgirl  on YouTube , emeffen.com, and https://www.tiktok.com/@emeffen.Please subscribe to Freedom Over Fascism at www.freedomoverfascism.us. Part of the Democracy Group of Podcasts.

Stephanie Wilson, as a guest on Will Fullwood's podcast 'Contraband Wagon,' engages in a profound conversation with Will Fullwood about race consciousness. They discuss their personal journeys in understanding race, the historical and systemic aspects of racism, and the transformative power of self-reflection and taking action. The dialogue highlights the importance of creating spaces for these conversations to foster community, hope, and collective empowerment. Stephanie also shares her path from political apathy to activism, emphasizing the necessity of education and aligning values for meaningful societal change. #race #substack #black #White #Politics #personalgrowth #antiracism #antifascism #history00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:37 Meet the Host: Will Fullwood 02:12 Joining the Contraband Wagon 04:17 Introducing the Guest: Stephanie G. Wilson, PhD 05:17 Stephanie's Early Experiences with Race 12:04 High School and Racial Segregation 16:53 Understanding Systemic Racism 28:15 Activism and Political Engagement 31:48 Bias and Empathy 43:38 Finding Common Ground 52:49 Historical Context of Dehumanization 54:33 Challenging Historical Narratives 56:38 Personal Realization of Racial Stereotypes 58:29 The Impact of Internalized Racism 01:00:24 The Journey to Anti-Racism 01:04:07 Reflections on Current Political Climate 01:09:29 The Power of Community and Collaboration 01:17:08 Taking Action and Living Your Values 01:37:45 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans A recording from Stephanie G Wilson, PhD and Will Fullwood's live video https://www.freedomoverfascism.us/p/evolution-of-race-consciousness-the?utm_source=youtubePlease subscribe to Freedom Over Fascism at www.freedomoverfascism.us. Part of the Democracy Group of Podcasts.

Stephanie Gerber Wilson speaks with Lindsay Winslow Brown, an Indiana teacher and social media influencer, about her work dismantling historical myths surrounding the founding of the United States. Lindsay delves into the importance of questioning accepted narratives and offers insight into her personal journey, from growing up in a fundamentalist Christian household to becoming an advocate for historical and religious deconstruction. The discussion explores topics like the truth behind the Plymouth Pilgrims, the nuanced histories of early American colonies, and the role of education in fostering critical thinking. Watch to discover how Lindsay uses her platforms on Instagram, TikTok, and Substack to challenge simplified historical records and inspire deeper inquiry.risingfromthered.substack.comfreedomoverfascism.usPlease subscribe to Freedom Over Fascism at www.freedomoverfascism.us. Part of the Democracy Group of Podcasts.

This is the audio from my LIVE conversation on Substack withKevin M. Levintoday about about how we remember the past, what the Trump regime is doing to edit the waymarkers at historical sites, and how the future of history might go.Please subscribe to Freedom Over Fascism at www.freedomoverfascism.us. Part of the Democracy Group of Podcasts.

Stephanie has a very wide ranging conversation with Nick Paro and Lawrence Winnerman about everything from the way we frame political discussion, to the trauma of the Challenger explosion, to being GenX (or Millennial, as the case may be), to what’s going to happen next. Take a look or listen to hear about what all of us think, and to hear my scientific, historical judgement about where we are in this moment.www.freedomoverfascism.ushttps://substack.com/@sickofthisshitwithnickhttps://www.genxy.io/podcastPlease subscribe to Freedom Over Fascism at www.freedomoverfascism.us. Part of the Democracy Group of Podcasts.

Stephanie Wilson talks with Emma Brown, Executive Director of Giffords, about the organization's efforts to promote gun safety laws. Started by Gabby Giffords and Mark Kelly, Giffords focuses on creating a big tent around the issue without requiring political conformity. The conversation covers Giffords' successful passage of 700+ state gun safety laws, the role of corporate interests in fueling gun violence, and the power of local actions and bipartisan efforts. Emma shares insights on how optimism and community engagement can drive change, even in traditionally resistant regions.www.freedomoverfascism.usPlease subscribe to Freedom Over Fascism at www.freedomoverfascism.us. Part of the Democracy Group of Podcasts.