What complexities lie beneath the recent shifts in the U.S. left? Join us on Varn Vlog as we sit down with Jules Taylor of the "No Easy Answers" podcast to dissect the nuanced landscape of leftist politics in America. From the financial woes of the DSA to the growing support for Palestinians in Gaza, we break down the major events and miscalculations that have shaped the modern millennial left. We even touch on the resurfacing of figures like Lyndon LaRouche and the state's escalating tactics against student protests.

Moving from New York to Texas, Jules shares the gritty realities of leftist organizing in conservative strongholds. We explore the balance between fostering social camaraderie and pushing for real-world impact, especially within organizations like CPUSA and DSA. This discussion extends to the role of media in shaping collective consciousness, as we question the effectiveness of traditional political actions and debate the practicality and morality of various leftist ideologies.

Finally, we dive into the historical evolution of the American left and its ongoing power dynamics. With reflections on issues ranging from the housing crisis to the humanitarian situation in Gaza, we provide a comprehensive look at the challenges and potential future of leftist activism. This episode is a blend of realism and hope, offering insights that are both critical and aspirational for anyone interested in contemporary political struggles.

Support the Show.

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

What if the apocalypse is already here, but we're too busy imagining zombies and nuclear winters to notice? On this episode, Bram E. Gieben, author of "The Darkest Timeline: Living in a World with No Future," unpacks the eerie realization that our present might be the dystopia we've been fearing. We explore how apocalyptic narratives can distract us from the grim realities we currently face, drawing on insights from all sorts of fields of study. The discussion confronts the uncomfortable truth that our solutions to technological and climate crises might be more fantasy than feasible reality.

Next, we plunge into the murky waters of environmental water security in the United States, specifically the contentious issue of water rights. Using real-life examples like the endangered mussel in Florida, we highlight the complex interplay between ecological preservation and urban necessities. Inspired by John Gray's "Straw Dogs," we ponder what it means to live a good life in a world on the brink of ecological collapse, reflecting on the millennial left's responses to these daunting scenarios post-Bush administration.

We also tackle the intriguing developments in transhumanism and the metaverse, dissecting how early optimism has given way to skepticism and critique. From the grandiose claims of tech billionaires to the limitations of AI, our conversation traverses the performative nature of modern political activism and the disillusionment faced by progressive youth movements. We wrap up with an examination of Mark Fisher's lasting influence and the complex legacy he left behind, urging listeners to confront today's realities with intellectual rigor and nuanced understanding. Tune in for a journey through the intricate narratives shaping our world.

Support the Show.

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

What if the horizon of the workers' movement has truly ended? On this thought-provoking episode, we welcome Ross Wolfe to dissect the enduring legacy and contemporary relevance of Loren Goldner a monumental figure in left communism. We delve into Goldner’s solitary stance amid post-structuralism, his fierce critiques of post-colonialism, and his eye-opening reviews, such as his take on Max Elbaum's "Revolutions in the Air." Walsh offers a rare glimpse into Goldner’s mentorship of writers and theorists, his influence on the New York ultra-left scene, and his rigorous examination of movements like Occupy and Maoism.

Our discussion continues by contrasting the intellectual debates between Troploin and Theorie Communise with Goldner’s unwavering belief in the working class as a pivotal historical force. We touch on Goldner’s opposition to third-worldism and post-colonial thought, his rich academic background, and his critical stance against post-structuralism and Maoism. Walsh further critiques contemporary intellectual currents, making connections between Goldner’s ideas and ongoing global workers' struggles. We also delve into Christopher Lasch's critiques of American culture, discussing his departure from Marxism, his analysis of cultural malaise and narcissism, and his interactions with feminists. Walsh draws intriguing links between Lasch’s thoughts and contemporary thinkers like Anselm Jappe, who critique modern capitalist society.

The episode wraps up with a broad look at the dissatisfaction with the mainstream left and the bleak state of contemporary leftist movements. We highlight the significant differences between resistance movements like BDS and the anti-apartheid efforts, underlining the harsh realities faced by Palestinians today. Furthermore, we explore the unexpected political realignments of former radicals and the implications of anti-Americanism within the left, especially concerning the Ukraine-Russia war. Stay tuned for an insightful update from our guest on their upcoming research and writings on Marxism and the family, promising a series of thought-provoking essays in the year ahead.

Support the Show.

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

Is the millennial left crumbling under its own weight, or is it poised for a groundbreaking resurgence? Join us on VarmVlog as we dissect the intricate evolution and fragmentation of the millennial left post-Bernie Sanders. With insights from Alex Gendler, we reflect on the legacies of Mark Fisher, David Graeber, and Michael Brooks, and how their contributions continue to shape contemporary leftist politics. We compare the vibrant political ecosystems of New York and California, exploring how their unique industrial landscapes influence local leftist movements.

We'll navigate the treacherous waters of U.S. electoral politics, scrutinizing the left's response to Trump-era strategies and the current state of the Democratic Party. From the decline of Graeberite anarchism to the rise of semi-reformist Marxist-Leninist tendencies, this episode uncovers the fractured nature of leftist groups like the DSA and the complex challenges of modern political organizing. We also examine the reactive nature of leftist politics, particularly in relation to international crises and domestic policy shifts, and question the feasibility of certain ideological perspectives.

Finally, we confront the uncomfortable truths and strategic missteps that have plagued leftist movements. From the perplexing support for figures like Alexander Dugin to the organizational flaws within movements like BLM, we dissect the multifaceted challenges of forming a coherent and impactful leftist movement. We also explore the potential for revitalizing the workers' movement, addressing the generational wealth disparities, and examining the subtle manipulations within leftist media. Tune in for a comprehensive and critical analysis of the millennial left's past, present, and possible future trajectories.

Support the Show.

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

Curious about how the Professional Managerial Class (PMC) fits into today's leftist strategy debates? Join us as Dutch socialist Foppe De Haan takes us through his personal journey within the Dutch Socialist Party, his discontent with its approach to identity politics, and the transformative influence of Bernie Sanders' campaign. Fapa offers a critical perspective on integrating identity politics into leftist strategies, a topic that is both contentious and crucial in today's political climate.

We also delve into the intellectual history and ongoing discussions about the PMC, referencing influential thinkers like Christopher Lash, Adolph Reed, the Ehrenreichs, and others. Critiques of Catherine Lou's "Virtue Hoarders" and explorations of class dynamics through the lens of Eric Olin Wright's distinctions between oppression and domination add depth to our conversation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a nuanced understanding of class dynamics and the role of the PMC in contemporary capitalism. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking discussion!

Support the Show.

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

Can local journalism survive in an age dominated by tech giants and algorithm-driven content? Join us as Joe Payne of Political Payne returns to Varn Vlog after a three-year hiatus to share his firsthand experiences and insights into the evolving landscape of journalism. From his humble beginnings at a community alt-weekly to his academic pursuits in history, Joe offers a compelling narrative on the critical role of local journalism and the challenges posed by corporate consolidation and elitist media practices.

Our discussion takes a deep dive into the intricacies of local media coverage, particularly in addressing labor and political issues. We draw historical parallels, underscoring how academic limitations often hinder a broader understanding of global contexts. Joe sheds light on the Chumash War, emphasizing the profound importance of historical context in contemporary reporting. This conversation also explores the complex histories of indigenous resistance within the Spanish mission system in California, revealing how economic and social structures shaped these communities.

We then shift our focus to California's political and cultural dynamics, exploring regional differences and historical roots. Joe's journey of balancing creative work and academic pursuits serves as a testament to the resilience required in today's media landscape. Wrapping up, we stress the need for better communication strategies among historians and journalists to make complex ideas more accessible and engaging for the general public. Tune in for an enriching discussion that bridges the past and present, offering valuable insights into the future of journalism.

Support the Show.

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

Ever wondered why smaller Marxist groups are financially stable while larger organizations like the Democratic Socialists of America struggle? Our guest, Amogh Sahu, brings clarity to this and other enigmas within leftist movements by pulling back the curtain on the role of wealthy individuals and funding transparency in these organizations. Explore the ethical considerations of independently wealthy leaders in Marxist organizations and the impact this has on their credibility and operations.

Shifting our focus to the broader American political landscape, we navigate through the evolving dynamics within the Republican and Democratic parties. From the rise and fall of alt-right movements to the unpredictable behavior of the "don't care" voters, we scrutinize trends that could reshape future elections. We delve into the changing voter composition, particularly among Zoomers, and the public's growing desire for a third party, despite historical voting patterns.

Finally, we traverse the complex terrain of modern warfare and geopolitical strategies, comparing historical and contemporary conflicts like Russia-Ukraine and Gaza. Our discussion sheds light on the brutal realities of counterinsurgency and the critical need for local population support. Reflecting on global political shifts, we examine China's dissatisfaction with Russia, the complications within BRICS, and the evolving nature of the global proletariat. Join us for a comprehensive and thought-provoking conversation on the critical issues shaping today's political landscape.

Support the Show.

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube

Chirs and Jason of the regrettable century return. Is revolutionary optimism just delusional wishful thinking? Join us as we dissect the tension between revolutionary optimism and pessimism within Marxist theory. We scrutinize Maoist and anarchist influences on American leftist thought, revealing the struggle between human agency and material conditions. Reflecting on the 20th century, we challenge the idea of historical inevitability in Marxism and consider Marx’s nuanced perspectives on societal contradictions.

Explore contemporary leftist geopolitics and the concept of multipolarity as we critique modern third-worldism and its outdated models. From the decline of U.S. hegemony to the peculiarities of the Gen X left, we trace the evolution of leftist thought and the legacy of anti-Stalinism. We also delve into the complexities of unionization, the state of the workforce, and the disillusionment post-Bernie Sanders, questioning the viability of social democratic initiatives and the realities behind the Green New Deal and Medicare for All.

Finally, we navigate through the rise of anarcho-primitivism, post-Marxism, and their transformations influenced by 90s punk rock culture and the Occupy movement. Analyzing the impact of military technology on modern warfare, we reflect on the socio-economic factors behind past conflicts and the persistent allure of nationalism. Concluding with a critique of both revolutionary optimism and pessimism, we emphasize the need for a pragmatic understanding of Marxist theory and the continuous challenges of revolutionary change.

Support the Show.

Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube