Counterpunch Radio

This week Eric welcomes to the show author and academic Rob Larson to discuss his latest book "Capitalism vs. Freedom: The Toll Road to Serfdom" and the ideologies and politics that inspired it. Rob explains why he felt it was important to combat the pernicious influence of right wing economic ideas, and the discourse by which it is spread. Eric and Rob examine the origins of neoliberalism and modern far right economics, and how they were translated into policy, both domestically and internationally. The conversation explores ideas about the nature of freedom, the ruthless efficiency of capitalism and privatization, and the need for dictatorships to carry out right wing Friedmanite economic policies. The second half of the show discusses some contemporary political questions, whether the Trump administration is truly neoliberal, how anarcho-capitalists and neoliberals explain away the glaring holes in their theories, and so much more. Don't miss this wide-ranging discussion. Music: Max Romeo - "Socialism I

This week Eric welcomes to the show undocumented activist and organizer Aly Wane to discuss refugees and migration, the Trump Administration's policies at the border, and the political trajectory that brought us here. Aly and Eric discuss everything from the horrific, fascistic enforcement policy of the Orange Beast to the complicity of Democrats and liberals in creating the infrastructure that Trump now employs. The conversation explores the connection between the refugee/migration issue and US imperialism, and how that understanding is critical to building a true resistance movement. Aly provides valuable insights from his many years of activism, urging listeners and aspiring activists to mobilize and show true solidarity with the victims of the deportation machine. This wide-ranging interview should be heard by everyone who truly wants to learn from the experiences of our brothers and sisters most affected by this. Music: Linton Kwesi Johnson - "Fite Dem Back"

This time Eric welcomes to the show researcher and activist John Ackerman to discuss the upcoming Mexican elections, the issues at play, and the significance of these elections for the country and the region as a whole. The conversation begins with an in depth examination of the front-runner, left wing candidate Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), his policy proposals, and the challenges he'll face as president. Eric and John discuss where big capital fits into this, whether they're united in their support of a candidate, and what a prospective AMLO presidency means for Mexico's corporate elites. The second half of the show focuses on the regional political dynamics, and the importance of these elections for the whole of Latin America. From taming the dotard Trump to addressing endemic corruption, AMLO will have his hands full. And yet, he may very well be the hope of a resurgent left in Latin America. Don't miss this informative discussion on CounterPunch Radio Music: The Coup - "Ride the Fence"

This time Eric welcomes to the show scholar and activist Edna Bonhomme to discuss her research on Tunisia, and how that country - a flashpoint during the Arab Spring - has evolved since protests erupted in 2010. Edna explains how the country has undergone a process of militarization, and that the US and other western powers have been behind the military in its expansion. Eric and Edna touch on everything from the role of Tunisia in the migrant crisis, to the US AFRICOM initiative and how that manifests all over the African continent. The second half of the show explores the role of neoliberalism in Tunisia and North Africa, drawing historical parallels to other countries in the region including Egypt. Edna discusses some of the social gains made since 2010 as well forms of resistance emerging today and so much more. This wide-ranging discussion is well worth your time. Music: The Coup - "Laugh/Love/Fuck"

This week Eric welcomes to the show UK-based Iranian exile Yassamine Mather to discuss the latest developments in Iran and the Middle East. Eric and Yassamine begin with an analysis of the Iran nuclear agreement (JCPOA) and the decision by the Trump administration to violate the treaty. From there, the conversation explores some of the political, economic, and strategic context within which these latest events must be understood. Yassamine provides her perspective on the regional and global issues at play, especially against the backdrop of the war in Syria. The second half of the show explores the social unrest in Iran, and how the neocons and their allies would like to exploit it for regime change. Russia, Turkey, Lebanon, Hezbollah, ISIS, Saudi Arabia, and many other players occupy a spot on the chessboard. CounterPunch Radio is here to make the game understandable. Music: Blackalicious - "Black Diamonds and Pearls"

This time Eric welcomes back to the show Brazil-based journalist and researcher Mike Fox to discuss the latest political developments in that country as it witnesses social upheaval resulting from a political crisis. Mike and Eric discuss former President Lula's dramatic surrender to the government, what the social movements have done in defense of Lula and democracy, and what it means for the future of the movements and the country. Mike explains how we got to this point, the role of the Temer government and its grand strategy, and what to expect in the upcoming elections, including a right wing in ascendance as a Trump-like figure emerges. The conversation also touches on the recent assassination of a prominent activist and leader and how that is connected to everything happening in the country. So many topics covered in this wide-ranging conversation...don't miss it. Music: Max Romeo - "Socialism Is Love"

This time Eric welcomes to the show CounterPunch editors Jeffrey St. Clair and Joshua Frank to mark the 100th episode of the podcast as the bombs of WWIII fall around us. While Jeff and Eric record from deep in their respective strongholds, Josh remains foolishly above ground, open to the elements and nuclear bombs. Nevertheless, the show must go on, so Eric, Jeff and Josh discuss everything from Trump's bombs over Syria to Putinmania, from Democratic Party orcs to the Great Syria Meme War of 2017. The guys discuss CounterPunch's close encounters with fake news and fake personas, the fractures and/or collapse of the Left, the total evisceration of regulatory agencies under Trump, and why the Degenerate-in-Chief is more like Bill Clinton than Barack Obama or George Bush. This was a fun conversation, don't miss it! Music: Jackson Browne - "Lawyers in Love"

This week Eric welcomes back to the show Kobani-based political scientist and activist Hawzhin Azeez to discuss the Turkish invasion of Afrin, the general attack on Kurdish autonomy and sovereignty, the role of jihadis in this strategy, and so much more. The conversation begins with an analysis of the attack on Afrin (at time of recording, the main battle was still ongoing), and the Turkish motivations in doing so. From there, the Hawzhin and Eric touch on everything from anti-Kurdish propaganda from various quarters, the strategic calculus within which the Kurds are operating, and the role of foreign powers (US, Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, etc). The second half of the discussion examines the response from the international left, media coverage of the war, and what concerned people around the world should be doing. So much ground covered in this wide-ranging conversation that goes in depth where most media outlets won't dare. Don't miss it! Music: Max Romeo - "Socialism Is Love"

This week Eric welcomes to the show author and journalist Dahr Jamail to discuss climate change, climate politics in the Age of Trump, and our responsibilities to future generations. The conversation begins with a discussion of the emotional and psychological impact of an issue as enormous as climate change, and how we can even discuss it without falling into despondency. From there, Eric and Dahr discuss everything from climate change trends to polar ice, the impact of methane, agriculture and food production, and so much more. The second half of the show features an examination of the impact that the Trump Administration has had on climate science and environmental regulation, as well as the increased influence of China in renewable energy and environmental responsibility. All this and so much more in this wide-ranging interview on CounterPunch Radio. Music: Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings - This Land Is Your Land

This week Eric welcomes to the show author and academic Patrick Bond to discuss the political situation in South Africa domestically, as well as the role that the country plays on the African continent, and globally. The conversation begins with an analysis of recent developments as former President Zuma was ousted, replaced by the billionaire Cyril Ramaphosa, and what that portends for the future of the country. Eric and Patrick examine the other parties, the role of the trade unions, and the grassroots social movements in order to pain a clear picture of a complex and dynamic political situation in South Africa. The second half of the program features an in depth discussion of regional African issues, as well as a detailed examination of the role of China in Africa, the BRICS, and so much more. Don't miss this week's show! Music: William Onyeabor - "Better Change Your Mind"

CounterPunch Radio is back this week after a long hiatus as Eric welcomes returning guest, and regular CounterPunch contributor, Paul Street to the show. Eric and Paul discuss Russiagate and the competing narratives around it, how the Trump-Russia discourse has changed on the Left as new details emerge, and what we should look forward to, both good and bad. But fear not, this conversation goes well beyond the corporate media hysteria to touch on everything from Bernie Sanders' recent comments and what the motivation behind them might be, the impact of guns and the gun control issue on Trump's ability to connect with his base and core supporters, the dangerous trajectory of American political life and society, the end of US hegemony, and so much more. CounterPunch Radio is thrilled to be back on the air! Thanks for coming back to listen. Music: Chumbawamba - "Bella Ciao" #Trump #Russia #Russiagate #Putin #Mueller #FireAndFury #guncontrol #HillaryClinton #BernieSanders #fascism #socialmedia #imperialism #

CounterPunch Radio returns this week after more than two months away. Eric welcomes to the show investigative journalist Steve Horn to discuss the state of the Republican and Democratic parties and the ongoing conflicts, perceived or real, within them. Eric and Steve talk about the anti-environment, climate-denying degenerates appointed by Trump to head every relevant agency, the role of ALEC in shaping Trumpian policy, and more. The conversation also explores Steve Bannon and his role in maintaining and shepherding the Trump lunatic base. The second half of the show focuses on energy and the international political issues surrounding it. First, Eric and Steve examine the role of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the profit-seeking business equations of both energy companies and the Trump Administration. From there, the conversation explores everything from China and Iran as energy players in the minds of US strategic planners to the evolution of the former Soviet countries in Central Asia in the energy calcul

This week Eric sits down with journalist Abby Martin to discuss the situation in Venezuela, and her recent trip to the country. Eric and Abby begin by examining the "protests" on the streets of Caracas as Abby witnessed first-hand: the violence of the guarimbas, the class character of the protests and protesters, the attitudes of Chavistas, the economic and psychological war against the people of Venezuela, and much more. From there, Eric and Abby touch on everything from the role of organized crime and Colombian paramilitaries to the US-sponsored subversion of the country. The second half of the show focuses on a variety of topics including the recently elected constituent assembly, the obstructionism of the right wing opposition in the National Assembly, the means of defending Chavismo and the Bolivarian Revolution, and so much more. Don't miss this week's CounterPunch Radio!

**Note: This episode was recorded 10 days before the events in Charlottesville** This week Eric sits down with author Paul Street to discuss his recent article in CounterPunch entitled "Unity with the Right? A Deplorable Idea" (Aug. 4, 2017). The conversation touches on renewed calls for building alliances with the far right, and interrogates whether such a strategy is desirable, or even possible. Eric and Paul discuss the current state of the Left, and examine why anyone would think unity with the far right would be anything other than self-immolation. From the importance of armed self-defense, to the history of the collapse of the Left in the last 50 years, this wide-ranging conversation touches on some of the key questions facing socialists, anarchists, and progressives in the Age of Trump. And, considering this was recorded before the violence in Charlottesville, listeners might get a unique perspective from this discussion. Don't miss it!

This week Eric sits down with Dr. Francisco Dominguez, national secretary of the UK-based Venezuela Solidarity Campaign to discuss the latest from the Bolivarian Republic as it faces perhaps the worst crisis since Hugo Chavez rose to power at the end of the last century. Eric and Francisco begin with a discussion about the global political situation, and the imperialist imperatives of the United States in Venezuela, and Latin America. They discuss everything from global oil prices to the nature of the economic war being perpetrated against the people of Venezuela, from corporate media propaganda to the methods of destabilization and manufactured chaos. The second half of the conversation focuses on the protests, their class nature, and the disinformation being spread by corporate media about the situation on the streets. Eric and Francisco also touch on the role of the international Left, and some of the burning questions about solidarity, critique, and revolutionary movement-building. All this and much much

This week Eric sits down with political scientist and author Anthony DiMaggio to discuss Trump's Russia problems, the real significance of the latest revelations, and what they mean for the future of the Trump administration. Eric and Anthony explore whether anyone should care about the Trump Jr.-Russian lawyer meeting, how to talk about Trump-Russia without legitimizing the Democratic Party and liberal establishment narrative, and what a post-Trump future could look like. The second half of the show features an in-depth exploration of the social phenomenon of Trumpism, and what the rise of the far right both in the US and internationally, means for the future of the Left, and of society. All this and so much more in this week's CounterPunch Radio. Music: GospelbeacH - "Strange Days"

This week Eric welcomes to the show author Ellen Brown to discuss the movement for public banking, and why a transformation of the US banking system is so necessary. The conversation begins with a discussion of public banking: What is it? Why is it important? What interests are threatened by it? From there, Eric and Ellen explore a wide variety of topics, from the Bank of North Daktoa to the roots of the monetary debates of the late 19th Century and their impact on our financial system today. In the second half of the show, Eric and Ellen discuss some exciting developments in the public banking movement, including endorsements from progressive leaders and calls for states like New Jersey and California to form public banks. Ellen outlines some short-, medium-, and long-term goals for the public banking movement, and explains how and why they're so attainable. These and many other subjects covered in this week's CounterPunch Radio. Music: The Flying Lizards - "Money (That's What I Want)"

This week Eric returns with guest, political commentator and analyst Dan Glazebrook discussing the recent elections in the UK, the triumph of Corbyn and what it means for the future of British politics, and his recent article in CounterPunch Magazine examining the phenomenon of 21st Century fascism. The conversation begins with Eric and Dan discussing the recent UK election results and what Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's stunning showing at the polls means for the future of the Left and the Right in Britain. Eric and Dan discuss what led to Corbyn and Labour's victory, and where this development fits into the broader international political context. The second half of the show sees Eric and Dan closely examine the nature of neo-fascism in Europe and the US: What are its features? Is it necessarily anti-democratic? What role are outside forces playing in promoting it? The discussion shifts to Russia and its support for the far right in Europe, with Russian media as a potent platform for disseminating reaction

This week Eric chats with Brazil-based journalist Mike Fox about the ongoing protests against the right wing government, the volatile politics of the country, Brazil's significance to the region, and much more. The conversation begins with an in-depth analysis of the recent scandals that continue to plague the Temer government, and what this means in the near- and long-term. Eric and Mike discuss the manufactured nature of the protests against the left wing government of Dilma Rousseff, and the role of big capital both in Brazil and the US in bankrolling them. The second half of the show highlights the broader implications for Latin America, and places Brazil in its proper regional and international context. From urban and rural protests to the role of Wall Street, from endemic corruption to the dangerous Trump Administration, Eric and Mike tackle this complex topic this week on CounterPunch Radio! Music: Max Romeo - "Socialism Is Love"

This week Eric chats with syndicated columnist and author Ramzy Baroud to discuss the Palestinian prisoner hunger strike, the symbolic meaning of this act of resistance, the current political situation in Palestine and much more. The conversation opens with a discussion of the ongoing hunger strike by Palestinian prisoners, and why the timing and meaning of the hunger strike is so important. Eric and Ramzy discuss the ascendance of Trump and the impact that has had on Israeli policy vis-a-vis Palestinians, settlements, and a range of other issues. From the regional political situation to the prospects for a lasting piece, this week's show covers many facets of one of the ongoing tragedies in the world today: Palestine. Don't miss it! Also, apologies for the heavy breathing. Sometimes our technical equipment catches far too much.