Propaganda Loves You

Propaganda Loves You: Adam Curtis Deep Dive (Part 1) — Bernays, Consumerism, and Engineering Consent

The hosts begin their second deep dive of the year by reviewing the first two episodes of Adam Curtis’s four-part documentary A Century of the Self, connecting it to a prior discussion of Edward Bernays. They discuss the documentary’s unsettling aesthetic and its theme that corporate and political elites used psychoanalysis and public relations to shift America from a needs-based culture to a desires-based consumer culture, including examples like soap marketing, planned obsolescence, and postwar suburban lawns and pesticides. They contrast Freud’s therap...

AI Deepfakes, Edward Bernays, and What’s Next on The Century of the Self

Host Kodie, joined by Arthur and Joe, announces upcoming episodes on Edward Bernays and Adam Curtis’s The Century of the Self, noting the recordings were spread across March and late April and outlining a schedule that includes a deep dive on parts one and two, a discussion of modern PR and the Trump PR machine, and a later episode on parts three and four. The group discusses AI propaganda using examples including a Senate Republicans in Texas deepfake of James Talarico reading real...

Cyber Operations in the 2026 Iran War and the Growing No Kings Movement

Host Kodie, joined by Arthur and Noah, discusses cyber and information operations in the 2026 Iran War and the recent No Kings protests. After a quiz on reported incidents, they review sources (Wikipedia and a Lawfare article) describing coordinated U.S.-Israeli strikes beginning Feb. 28, 2026, supported by cyber and electronic warfare that disrupted Iranian communications and sensors, enabled targeting via compromised Tehran traffic cameras and mobile networks, defaced state sites, hijacked Iranian TV to air Trump and Netanyahu speeches, and contributed to an internet blackout; they...

Meditation Subtlety: Noting, Frames of Experience, and the Three Characteristics

This episode continues the beginner meditation series with a short guided set focused on “settling into time and space” by finding a comfortable posture and placing attention in the present using an anchor such as the breath, sensations in the hands or feet, or the space of the whole body. The instructor emphasizes using one-word noting (e.g., rising/falling; tingling/warmth; thinking/planning/worrying) to maintain a continuous chain of mindful attention, clarifying that progress is not stopping thoughts but staying observant even as attention shifts to m...

Mutual Aid, Empathy, and Integration: Social Meditation with Vince Fakhoury Horn (Part 2)

In part two of an interview on Propaganda Loves You, hosts continue their conversation with Vince Fakhoury Horn of the Buddhist Geeks organization about mutual aid, community, and contemplative practice. Horn connects disaster-driven mutual aid after Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina to rebuilding everyday human connection through communities of practice. The discussion explores empathy (cognitive, emotional, and somatic) and balancing self- and other-focus, then shifts to awakening as experience versus abstraction, perception as sense-making, and Buddhist ideas like emptiness and interdependent arising. Horn emphasizes...

First Interview Episode: Vince Fakhoury Horn on Buddhism, Narrative Framing, and Propaganda After 9/11 and Gaza

Joe and Arthur interview Vince Fakhoury (Buddhist Geeks), a Dharma teacher and Palestinian American, about generational tensions between Buddhist teachers, tech-driven “schismogenesis,” and formative experiences of propaganda after 9/11, including his grandparents’ treatment during travel and business scrutiny. Vince links propaganda to linguistic framing via “social meditation,” arguing those who control frames shape what’s discussable, and critiques “neoliberal Buddhism” for avoiding systemic issues like Gaza. He describes building connective tissue between individual practice and social liberation through relational practice and projects like Insight Diaspora...

Getting Started with Meditation: Using Noting to Stay Present

The episode guides listeners through two short meditations while teaching foundational skills for beginners. It begins with settling into a comfortable posture, setting a relaxed intention to stay still, and finding an easy, comfortable way of breathing, using breath and whole-body physical sensations as an anchor to the present moment. The host addresses feeling overwhelmed by an active mind, emphasizing that meditation is not about stopping thoughts but relating to them skillfully by categorizing mental content as helpful or unhelpful and remembering you don’t need to finish a...

Elon Musk’s PAC Reprimanded for Georgia Voter Fraud Allegations, Iran Strikes, and Disinformation Flooding X

Host Kodie and co-hosts share listener statistics (top countries outside the U.S. include the UK, Singapore, Russia, Mexico, and Belgium) and play a “spot the lie” game tied to current events, then discuss reports that the Trump DOJ withheld Epstein-related documents, including FBI memos about an alleged sexual assault accusation against Donald Trump. They cover renewed U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, alleged civilian casualties, and concerns about deliberate targeting, alongside a Wired report describing X being flooded with disinf...

Getting Started with Meditation: Breath Basics and the Kite-Flying Metaphor

This episode continues a series on starting a meditation practice by reviewing basic setup: finding a comfortable posture (seated, lying down, or standing), scanning the body for tension, and using the breath as the main meditation object by noticing its physical sensations and choosing to breathe in a more relaxing, refreshing way. It notes how body, breath, and mind influence each other, and suggests an alternate practice of checking in with the six sense doors if focusing on the breath feels tedious. The host introduces a kite-flying...

Flock AI Cameras in Saranac Lake, ICE Warehouse Markups, and DOJ Cases Falling Apart

Kodie hosts episode season two, episode four of “Propaganda Loves You” with Arthur and Joe, framing the show around Fourth Amendment concerns and government access to personal data via corporate brokers. The group discusses Saranac Lake, New York installing Flock AI license plate reader and security cameras using a $241,500 state grant, including how the system profiles vehicles, stores data for 30 days, shares with other law enforcement, and is leased from Flock; they review the local reporting on mixed community reaction, error rates, privacy and...

Propaganda Loves You Special: Joe’s Getting Started with Meditation Sessions

This special Propaganda Loves You episode introduces a set of meditation recordings created by Joe, who volunteers with a group teaching meditation to incarcerated people in the DC area and other communities with limited access. The show explains that four 20–25 minute beginner-focused sessions have been produced, each structured as a guided meditation, a short technique talk, and a second guided practice that builds on the first. Joe then leads a “getting started with meditation” lesson: establishing a safe, comfortable posture; using the breath as an anchor; and trea...

Deep Dive: The Protocols of the Elders of Zion, Epstein, and How Antisemitic Conspiracies Get Repackaged

The episode opens with a contrast between Donald Trump’s claim that the released Epstein files “totally exonerate” him and Rep. Ted Lieu’s opposing view of what the documents and related issues suggest. The main deep dive focuses on the “Protocols of the Elders of Zion,” framed as a 120+ year-old antisemitic disinformation operation likely to resurface amid discussion of Epstein’s alleged ties to Israeli intelligence and the Israeli state. Using a Holocaust Encyclopedia article, the hosts summarize the protocols’ origins in Russi...

Minneapolis Labor Organizing Against ICE: Momentum, On-Ramps, and a Closing Guided Meditation

Week three, part two of Propaganda Loves You focuses on Minneapolis-centered labor and community organizing in response to ICE actions, with an update on rapid national solidarity mobilization. The hosts cite NationalShutdown.org’s report of January 30 solidarity actions in all 50 states, totaling over 300 actions and involving more than 1,000 organizations and businesses, and MuseumOfProtest.org’s figures describing large Minneapolis crowds and coordinated actions elsewhere, including arrests of clergy in San Francisco, rallies in Dolores Park, and student walkouts. The episode centers on reading and disc...

Epstein Files, DOJ Redactions, and the ‘Epstein Class’: Congress, Conspiracies, and Manufactured Confusion

Host Kodie is joined by Arthur and Joe for an episode of Propaganda Loves You, outlining a changed release schedule and announcing companion bonus content: a short guided meditation recorded on the show plus four 20–25 minute beginner meditation sessions Joe made for incarcerated people in the DC area via a volunteer group. The episode opens with discussion of an AI-generated racist video Trump posted depicting the Obamas as apes, noting it was created by the same ‘Dilly meme team’ figure discussed in season one. Arthur int...

Season 2, Episode 2: Propaganda and Crisis Events in the Trump Administration

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' the hosts discuss the goals for season two, including plans for 40 core episodes. They delve into the Trump administration's initial responses to recent Minnesota shootings, analyzing the rhetoric and evidence that conflicts with official statements. The episode covers the connections between Elon Musk, Kevin Warsh, and Howard Lutnick, highlighting their billionaire status and ties to the Trump administration and the Epstein files. They introduce DARVO (Deny, Attack, and Reverse Victim and Offender) and performative lying as propaganda tactics. Discussions...

Danish Veterans Feel Betrayed Amid Greenland Threats

In this bonus episode, host Kodie reads an article by Anders Kongshaug from the Associated Press on Danish veterans feeling betrayed by threats to seize Greenland. The piece covers the feelings of Danish veterans who served alongside U.S. forces in Afghanistan and Iraq and their reaction to President Donald Trump's threats to take control of Greenland. The article highlights the sense of loyalty and alliance between Denmark and the U.S. post 9/11, contrasted with the current sense of betrayal and sadness at the potential end of NATO. Additionally, it...

Propaganda Loves You S2 E1: Greenland, NATO, and Organizing Against Oppression

The season two kickoff of 'Propaganda Loves You' addresses the Trump administration's attempts to acquire Greenland, the purpose and history of NATO, and the implications for international treaties. Hosts Kodie, Arthur, and Joe discuss the shift in the podcast's structure and share personal updates. They delve into recent and troubling events, including the Trump administration's tactics and a series of deadly ICE raids in Minneapolis. Featuring an analysis of political realism versus idealism, the episode also highlights community organizing efforts, the power of general strikes, and...

The Dawn of Everything: Wrapping Up Season One of The Propaganda Loves You Book Club

In this final episode of season one of The Propaganda Loves You Book Club, the hosts conclude their discussion on 'The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity' by David Graeber and David Wengrow. The episode starts with a review of a 2021 interview with David Wengrow on Democracy Now, covering key themes discussed throughout the book, including the contributions of indigenous cultures to Western ideas of democracy and equality. The conversation touches on the importance of persuasion over coercion in organizing...

Propaganda Loves You Episode 50: Wrapping Up Season One and Key Conversations on Genocide and Illegal Orders

In this milestone 50th episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' hosts Kodie, Arthur, Joe, Cheyanne, and Noah discusses the show's first season and plans for the break before season two. The team reflects on the most discussed topics, significant predictions that came true, and hopeful moments. A deep dive is dedicated to the genocide in Gaza, detailing acts, global reactions, and the legal definitions under international law. Another segment tackles recent war crimes committed by the Department of War involving illegal...

Decoding State Formation and Sovereignty: A Deep Dive into 'The Dawn of Everything' - Chapter 10

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You Book Club,' the discussion centers around the multifaceted aspects of state formation as explored in Chapter 10 of 'The Dawn of Everything.' The chapter, a demanding 80-page exploration, examines how states are defined, the origins and roles of sovereignty, and the emergence of bureaucracy and charismatic politics. The hosts reflect on the complexities of anthropological and historical definitions of states while comparing these elements with modern bureaucracies and charismatic leadership. They also delve into...

Epstein Files Fallout and National Security Debate

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' the hosts continue their coverage of the Jeffrey Epstein document fallout, discussing the unexpected legislative developments leading to the release of the Epstein files. They dive into the implications of the bill's passage, President Trump's reactions, and the resignation announcement of Marjorie Taylor Greene. The episode also delves into the recent meeting between Trump and New York City Mayor elect Mamdani, analyzing Trump's easily manipulated persona. Additionally, the hosts explore the messaging strategies of Democratic lawmakers and the rise of National Security...

Exploring the Epstein Files and Trump's PR Tactics

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' hosts Kodie, Arthur and Joe dive into the recent updates on the Epstein files in connection with Donald Trump. The discussion covers the strategic release of emails implicating Trump, the varied tactics employed by Democrats and Republicans, and the complexities surrounding the Epstein scandal. The conversation also touches on broader issues of elite manipulation, political distractions, and the role of media in shaping public perception. Highlights include a comprehensive timeline of key events, an analysis of Epstein's influence on lawmakers, and...

Unpacking Toxic Masculinity and Its Fascist Roots

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' hosts Kodie, Arthur, and Joe delve into the concept of toxic masculinity and its exploitation by political figures. They discuss personal experiences with societal pressures around masculinity, the harmful effects of toxic masculinity on both men and women, and the pervasiveness of patriarchal norms. The conversation transitions into a detailed examination of ideological entrepreneurs like Andrew Tate, who exploit economic and social anxieties, and the historical use of rape myths to stoke sexual anxiety and reinforce patriarchal ideals. The episode concludes with...

Exploring the Propaganda of Masculinity

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' Kodie, Arthur, and Joe delve into the concept of toxic masculinity and its use as propaganda. The discussion includes a reading from the Anxiety Depression Association of America to define toxic masculinity and its core tenets: toughness, anti-femininity, and power. The hosts explore how these traits become harmful when enforced as the only acceptable model of masculinity. They also touch on personal anecdotes, the impact of societal pressures on men's mental health, and the role of the media in perpetuating these toxic ideals. The...

Revisiting Indigenous Democracies and the Dawn of Everything

This episode of the 'Propaganda Loves You Book Club' delves into Chapter Nine of 'The Dawn of Everything' by David Graeber and David Wengrow, titled 'Hiding in Plain Sight: The Indigenous Origins of Social Housing and Democracy in the Americas.' The hosts discuss the two significant civilizations in Central Mexico, Tenochtitlan and Tlaxcala, focusing on their social housing projects, urban development, and governance structures. The conversation highlights how Tlaxcala demonstrated elements of democratic governance long before European influence and examines the potential plagiarism of these systems by European...

Propaganda and Dehumanization Tactics in Government Messaging

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' host Kodie, along with Arthur and Joe, discusses recent propaganda tactics by the Department of Homeland Security, including the co-opting of popular culture such as Halo and Lord of the Rings for their messaging. They also delve into Elon Musk's new AI-powered competitor to Wikipedia, called Grockipedia, aimed at creating an "unbiased" encyclopedia. The episode features a game segment focusing on PR campaigns for video games, a historical detour discussing the Iran-Contra affair, and a critical analysis of corporate complicity in government...

Unveiling Ancient Urban Life: The True Essence of Cities

In this episode of the 'Propaganda Loves You' Book Club, Joe, Arthur, and Kodie delve into Chapter 8 of 'The Dawn of Everything,' titled 'Imaginary Cities: Eurasia's First Urbanites in Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, Ukraine, and China - and how they built cities without kings' They explore the complex and varied nature of early cities, particularly those that thrived without hierarchical rulers. The episode examines what truly constitutes a city, discusses communal activities and services, and reflects on ancient urban societies' social structures, including their practices of communal...

Unmasking 'They Live': A Deeper Dive Into John Carpenter’s Cult Classic

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You', hosts Kodie, Arthur, and Joe discuss the 1988 John Carpenter film 'They Live' as part of their Halloween special. The conversation explores the film's critique of consumer culture, media manipulation, and capitalist ideology, drawing parallels to contemporary issues such as hustle culture, social stratification, and political disinformation. Arthur shares personal anecdotes about falling for propaganda, and the hosts contemplate the difficulty of awakening people to hidden truths in society. They also touch on the co-opting of cultural symbols and na...

Exploring the Ecology of Freedom: Unpacking Chapter 7 of The Dawn of Everything

In this episode of the Propaganda Loves You Book Club, the hosts discuss Chapter 7 of 'The Dawn of Everything' by David Graeber and David Wengrow. The chapter, titled 'The Ecology of Freedom,' explores how early human societies navigated the transition to farming and its implications for social hierarchy and freedom. The discussion touches on the concept of 'flirting' with farming instead of fully adopting it, the benefits of ecological flexibility, and the contrast between traditional narratives of agricultural development and the diverse, dynamic practices...

The Trump Administration's Propaganda and the No Kings Protest

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' host Cody and co-host Joe delve into the complexities behind the recent No Kings protests, analyzing the narratives and propaganda from the Trump administration. They discuss the peculiar dichotomy between Trump's public denials of kingship and his social media posts depicting him as a king. The episode also examines personal vulnerabilities to propaganda, the psychology of advertising, and the influence of right-wing media and influencers. They highlight a recent incident involving DHS agents and a woman in Chicago, questioning the...

Unraveling Myths: The Agricultural Revolution Revisited

In this episode, the hosts discuss Chapter 6 of 'The Dawn of Everything,' titled 'Gardens of Adonis: The Revolution That Never Happened.' They explore how neolithic societies managed to avoid the full adoption of agriculture and how the traditional narratives about the agricultural revolution as a pivotal moment in human history may be more myth than fact. The discussion includes comparisons of upland and lowland societies in the Fertile Crescent, the playful and experimental nature of early farming practices, and the implications for our understanding of human history and social...

Propaganda Loves You Episode: Exposing Propaganda Tactics and Community Responses

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' host Kodie and co-hosts Arthur, Joe, and Cheyenne examine the ongoing disinformation tactics used by the Trump administration to portray left-wing protests as violent and chaotic. They compare official rhetoric with actual footage from Portland and Chicago to highlight the discrepancies. The episode discusses the ethical responsibilities of journalists in reporting the truth and the tactics used by right-wing influencers to spread state propaganda. The hosts also touch on the importance of community building and mutual aid, and suggest...

Our Journey with 'The Dawn of Everything': Unpacking Chapter 5

In this episode of 'The Propaganda Loves You Book Club,' the hosts discuss Chapter 5 of 'The Dawn of Everything' by David Graeber and David Wengrow. They delve into topics such as the complex history of slavery among indigenous groups on the western seaboard of North America, particularly comparing Californian foragers and their Canadian neighbors. The conversation explores key concepts including modes of production, schismogenesis, and social death. They also critically examine how modern societal structures and individual behaviors are influenced by historical modes of hierarchy and equality...

Propaganda Loves You: AI Videos, Government Messaging, and Political Ramifications

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' host Kodie, joined by Arthur, Joe, and Cheyenne, delves into AI-generated videos posted by Trump and examines the creators behind them. The team discusses the ongoing government shutdown, the partisan messaging being communicated through federal agencies, and the potential violations of the Hatch Act. The hosts analyze the broader implications of political messaging and digital propaganda. The episode also touches on the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the global response to humanitarian crises, emphasizing the power of community action...

The Evolution and Resurgence of Fascist Propaganda

In this special replay episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' host Kodie Olbert and co-hosts Arthur and Joe discuss the early propaganda tactics employed by fascist regimes, focusing on Mussolini and Hitler's use of media manipulation to consolidate power. The episode features a combined audio track of episodes three and four, examining the historical context of fascist propaganda and its modern manifestations. The hosts delve into the methods of creating enemies, rewriting history, and glorifying leaders, highlighting parallels to current political climates globally. They also explore how propaganda has adapted...

Decoding Propaganda: Algorithms, Laws, and Education

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' host Arthur, joined by Kodie and Joe, dive into the intricate ways propaganda shapes our reality. The episode starts with personal updates, touching on topics like Huntington's disease advancements and Disneyland experiences. They then critically analyze how propaganda is embedded in our infrastructure, discussing algorithms, laws, and education systems. Key subjects include Oracle's purchase of TikTok's algorithm, Trump's NSPM-7 memorandum labeling anti-fascism as terrorism, and Oklahoma's controversial education policies under Ryan Walters. The hosts explore the implications of these developments, the role of...

Propaganda Loves You Book Club: Exploring New Definitions of Property and Freedom

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You Book Club,' hosts dive into Chapter 4 of 'The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity' by David Graeber and David Wengrow. The discussion focuses on shifting definitions of property and freedom, contrasting modern capitalist perspectives with those of indigenous and prehistorical societies. The chapter also explores the Victorian era's false promises of leisure and the role of technology in labor. The hosts reflect on the value systems in today's society, touching on egalitarianism, knowledge access, and...

Propaganda Loves You: Jimmy Kimmel Update, Antifa Designation, and Tech Sector Reflections

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' host Kodie provides an update on Jimmy Kimmel's temporary removal and anticipated return, before diving into a discussion with Arthur about various pressing issues. They cover the recent violent events linked to Charlie Kirk, the designation of Antifa as a terrorist organization, and the implications of this for free speech and dissent in the U.S. Kodie also shares personal reflections on his departure from Microsoft and the challenges within the tech sector. The discussion extends to...

Exploring 'The Dawn of Everything': Chapters 3 Discussion

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' the book club dives into chapters 3 of 'The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity' by David Graeber and David Wengrow. The discussion opens with tips on how to tackle complex academic readings, emphasizing the importance of grasping key arguments and examples. Key takeaways include the authors' argument against the assumption that ancient humans were less capable or sophisticated than modern humans, challenging the linear progression narrative of human history. The conversation covers the concept of seasonal societies, the evolution of...

Political Violence and Media Narratives: Analyzing Charlie Kirk's Assassination

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' the hosts delve into the assassination of Charlie Kirk at a college campus in Utah. They discuss the broader context of political violence in America, referencing past incidents and the reactions from mainstream media and elected officials. The conversation includes personal reflections on the emotional impact of such news and critiques of how different media outlets, particularly Fox News, have handled the coverage. The hosts also touch on the rise of conspiracy theories following the assassination and compare the situation...