Episodes

  • Does Anything Change Under A Two Party System?

    Does Anything Change Under A Two Party System?
    Nov 8 2024
    In the podcast, The Leftish Agenda, the host, Eddie, explored why it often seems as though nothing changes whether you vote for a Republican or a Democrat. Eddie discussed a range of factors that can impact policy change including entrenched government institutions, legal frameworks, established practices, bipartisan consensus on certain issues, as well as economic and global constraints. He gave examples from healthcare, economic policies, social issues, and environmental policies to illustrate this continuity in governance. Eddie highlighted the complexity of political actions and decisions, showing that, despite campaign promises and ideological divides, the broader political machinery tends to remain stable.
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    38 mins
  • The State of the Labor Movement

    The State of the Labor Movement
    Oct 28 2024
    Eddie, in this episode of "The Leftish Agenda" podcast, offers a deep dive into the complexities of the labor movement in the United States. He draws attention to notorious cases of management corruption and fraud within prominent labor unions like the Teamsters, UAW, and SEIU. Still, the podcast isn't all about the negative – Eddie balances this by highlighting several triumphant efforts and advocacy successes, including the Fight for $15 movement, a series of teachers’ strikes, and most recently, the unionization surge in the tech industry. By emphasizing both historical pitfalls and recent victories, Eddie offers listeners a well-rounded understanding of the labor movement's ongoing role in advocating for workers' rights. The listeners are also encouraged to engage in continued vigilance and constant reform.
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    8 mins
  • What Value Does Currency Really Have?

    What Value Does Currency Really Have?
    Oct 28 2024
    In this episode of "The Leftish Agenda,” hosted by Eddie, listeners are guided through a comprehensive dive into the world of currency value. Starting with an explanation of fiat currencies, Eddie untangles their value sources, primarily centering around collective trust and confidence. He explains the role of market dynamics in determining currency values, particularly supply and demand factors. The podcast also explores how governments and central banks shape currency value, touching on strategies like interest rate adjustments and quantitative easing. The importance of collective belief in maintaining currency value, both domestically and internationally, is also emphasized. Finally, Eddie takes listeners into the territory of cryptocurrencies and digital assets, illustrating how they challenge conventional value perceptions. This episode enlightens the audience that perception and trust are fundamental to understanding the 'fiction' of currency value, empowering more informed financial decisions.
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    20 mins
  • Stoicism

    Stoicism
    Oct 28 2024
    In this episode of The Leftish Agenda, host Eddie takes the listener on an insightful journey into Stoicism, right from its origins in ancient Greece to its contemporary relevance. Beginning with an overview of its historical evolution across the early, middle, and late Stoa, Eddie makes complex philosophical concepts accessible and engaging for all. Then, engaging discussions are held about core Stoic values such as virtue, emotional resilience, acceptance of fate, and universal brotherhood. Finally, Eddie discusses Stoicism’s significant influence on modern psychology, leadership tactics, personal development approaches, and mindfulness practices. Throughout, listeners are prompted to apply these timeless principles to their everyday lives, contributing to not just intellectual stimulation, but also personal growth.
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    11 mins
  • Radicals Playing By the Rules!

    Radicals Playing By the Rules!
    Oct 28 2024
    In this insightful episode of The Leftish Agenda, host Eddie delves deep into the influential work 'Rules for Radicals' by Saul Alinsky. Eddie explores the structure and key principles laid out in the 1971 book, which has become a seminal guide for activists seeking real social change. The podcast also navigates through the controversial criticisms of the book and reveals its significant impact on various social movements. In addition, listeners are introduced to the life story and contributions of Saul Alinsky himself. Whether you're a community organizer or a curious listener, this episode promises an engaging analysis of Alinsky's work and his enduring influence on activism.
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    16 mins
  • When Did the United States Turn Into the Dominant Nation?

    When Did the United States Turn Into the Dominant Nation?
    Oct 28 2024
    In this episode of The Leftish Agenda, Eddie delves deep into the history of the United States turn to its position as a dominant world power. The journey begins with the late 19th-century industrialization and leads up through WWI, WWII, the Cold War era, ultimately touching upon America's cultural and ideological global influence. Some key points discussed include the massive shift from agriculture to industry in the late 19th century, America’s pivotal role in WWI, her journey from the depths of the Great Depression to economic recovery, her transformation during WWII as the 'Arsenal of Democracy', and her strategic role during the Cold War, concluding with an exploration of American cultural exports. The episode argues that the U.S.'s rise to prominence wasn't just military or economic but also cultural, making its influence expansive and multi-faceted.
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    19 mins
  • Psychological Warfare

    Psychological Warfare
    Sep 27 2024
    In this episode of "The Leftish Agenda", host Eddie takes us on an exploration into the domain of psychological warfare - a tool used in various military, political, and social contexts. The podcast covers the key components of psychological warfare, such as propaganda, deception, intimidation, demoralization, and cultural manipulation. Eddie sheds light on different implementation methods, including media manipulation, cyber warfare, and community engagement. Simultaneously, the podcast discusses the implications and consequences of these tactics, emphasizing the inherent ethical considerations, potential harm to civilians, and long term effects like polarization and trauma. Eddie concludes with the importance of understanding human psychology, cultural contexts, and strategic information use in this landscape. This episode offers a deep dive into the compelling world of psychological warfare, its evolution with technology, and its relevance in present discussions around conflict, politics, and social behavior.
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    5 mins
  • That Can't Possibly Be True!

    That Can't Possibly Be True!
    Sep 27 2024
    In this episode of "The Leftish Agenda," Eddie takes a deep dive into the world of conspiracy theories, discussing why most of them are largely considered false. Relying on factors such as lack of evidence, cognitive biases, oversimplification of complex events, psychological influences, the role of disinformation, historical precedents, and the lack of expert consensus, Eddie scrutinizes the architecture of conspiracy theories and the reasons behind their downfall. Highlighting the complex landscape of information and disinformation, he underscores the importance of evidence-based research, seeking diverse perspectives, and employing critical thinking when faced with sensational and often misleading claims made by conspiracy theories.
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    5 mins