The Socialist Program with Brian Becker
News and views about the world for those who want to change it, with Brian Becker
Sat, April 12, 2025
Trump Hints At Shift On Gaza, Witch-Hunt Against Students In the US Grows, Millions Face Deportation
Brian and Layan discuss Trump’s possible shift in his policy of genocide on Gaza while the witch-hunt against U.S. students grows and Trump terrorizes millions by shutting down their bank accounts to encourage “self deportations” on this patrons-only episode. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Thu, April 10, 2025
Explosive Trade War with China: What Are Trump’s Real Goals?
Trump increased already huge tariffs today, bringing total tariffs on China to 125% of goods (at 104% at the time of recording). China has retaliated, and the stock market plunged $7 trillion in value after tariffs were announced last week (before bouncing back after this recording). Trump says this is about bringing back jobs, but what is the reality? Brian Becker and Eugene Puryear discuss Trump’s real goals. Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, an author and political organizer, and co-host of The Freedom Side LIVE, a live video show every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern on BreakThrough News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 09, 2025
Stock Market Chaos Amid Trump’s Billionaire Family Feud w/ Prof. Richard Wolff
Trump enacted major tariffs on countries all around the world last Wednesday, and the stock market crashed over the next two days, with about $5 trillion in losses. Upsetting the world’s billionaires, stocks have continued to be extremely volatile this week. Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss what Trump’s aims are, what’s coming next, and what it means for our class. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 02, 2025
Wisconsin says NO to Musk & Billionaires, Is Protest Effective?, Palestine, Iran, China, & More [Preview]
What does the loss of Musk’s well-funded candidate in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race mean? What factors are at play in China’s foreign policy with Israel? Why are there two marches on Saturday, does marching really work, and should I go? Is there a risk of war with Iran? Huge numbers of Asheville residents are homeless after the storms there—how would a socialist society address this? These are just some of the topics that Brian Becker and producer Nicole Roussell discuss in today’s patrons-only Q&A seminar. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Mon, March 31, 2025
Billionaires Salivate Over Plan to Privatize the Post Office, w/ Prof. Richard Wolff
Trump, Musk, and the billionaires are trying to privatize the Post Office among several other government services. Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the real story behind these attacks. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Fri, March 28, 2025
A Do-or-Die Moment for Free Speech in the US. Time to Stand Up [Preview]
Brian and Layan discuss the horrendous conditions in Gaza, with no food or aid for weeks, on this patrons-only episode. Here in the United States, hundreds of thousands of people are preparing to descend on Washington DC for a mass march to demand an end to genocide, to stop the ethnic cleansing of Gaza, and to free Mahmoud Khalil, Rumeysa Ozturk, and all students targeted for their political activity. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Wed, March 26, 2025
US Wages Economic War on China, But It Won’t Stop Its Rise w/ Ben Norton
The US is waging an economic war on China while threatening Chinese students here on student visas. But China has maintained huge economic and social growth, in spite of severe economic sanctions and new tariffs. Brian Becker is joined by Ben Norton, an investigative journalist currently based in Beijing, and the editor of the independent news website Geopolitical Economy Report, at geopoliticaleconomy.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, March 25, 2025
Musk's Real Plan is to Loot Social Security w/ Prof. Richard Wolff
On today's episode, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Musk’s recent statements on Social Security and the Trump administration’s agenda to cut and privatize the vital program that so many seniors rely on to survive. They’re cutting the Social Security budget, firing workers, and grabbing hold of the most sensitive data in the Social Security system. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, March 19, 2025
Israel Invades Gaza, Trump Bombs Yemen & Threatens Iran Is Next
Two nights ago, Israel shattered the ceasefire with Palestine, killing more than 400 people in Gaza, with more bombings that today were followed with a new ground invasion. Donald Trump bombed Yemen and is threatening war with Iran, a formidable and large country with a very strong military. Is a regional war coming? Brian is joined by Professor Mohammad Marandi, an expert on American studies who teaches at the University of Tehran. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, March 18, 2025
German Militarism is Back. Why That's Bad for Everyone w/ Prof. Richard Wolff
On today's episode, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Trump's demands that European countries double their military spending, and the new German government has embraced the open remilitarization of Germany--a major shift in policy for Germany since the defeat of Hitler and Nazism in 1945. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Join the The Socialist Program community at www.patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, March 17, 2025
Trump and Putin Discuss Ukraine Peace Deal [Preview]
Brian is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan -- a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books -- in a discussion of what Russia seeks in a peace deal to end the Ukraine war. They also discuss Trump's false usage of the Enemy Aliens Act against Venezuelans and the Maduro government, the growing free speech fight over the illegal arrest and detention of Mahmoud Khalil, and the wave of repression against Palestine solidarity activists on college campuses. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Wed, March 12, 2025
'First They Came for the Palestinian': Arrest of Mahmoud Khalil Sparks Nationwide Movement
When Trump ordered the arrest and deportation of Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil in New York City, he didn't expect it would trigger a mass movement in his defense. Millions of people understand it as an epic battle over free speech and the right to organize in solidarity with the Palestinian people. Brian is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer, popular educator, and Education Director at The People’s Forum. Both were at the rally today outside the courthouse where Khalil's attorneys challenged ICE's removal of Khalil to Louisiana. Join the The Socialist Program community at www.patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, March 11, 2025
Why the Stock Market Plunged
On today's episode, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the coming recession and this week's stock crash, why capitalism is so unstable with frequent recessions, and the war on the working class. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, March 10, 2025
Trump Arrests Palestine Campus Organizer, But Millions Say, “No Way”
On this special episode, Brian and Layan discuss the targeting of Palestinian organizer at Columbia University Mahmoud Khalil, who was illegally dragged from his campus housing by Department of Homeland Security officers and taken to an ICE detention facility as the Trump administration prepares to deport him. This is part of a nationwide effort to suppress the Palestinian solidarity movement on college campuses but the Trump administration’s target will impact all sectors of society. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 06, 2025
Trump’s War Against Students, Musk and Rubio Argue, Trump Threatens Russia Sanctions [Preview]
The Trump administration is cancelling $400 million in contracts with Columbia University because it says the university is not protecting Jewish students, and students who were protesting Israel’s genocide in Gaza are being targeted in a new wave of repression. We discuss this and more breaking news. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Tue, March 04, 2025
Trumpcession Is Coming
On today's episode, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the decline in the economy, the increase in the cost of basic goods like eggs, the major downward shifts in the European economies, and the impact of Trump's tariffs on U.S. workers. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, March 03, 2025
Netanyahu and Trump Sabotage Ceasefire, Push for Gaza Takeover
Trump and Netanyahu are working together to sabotage the ceasefire agreement and block all humanitarian aid to Gaza, while Palestinian children are freezing and starving to death. Brian and Layan also discuss the latest wave of wildfires in the Carolinas and how Musk’s mass firings created a crisis in a nuclear weapons facility. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Mon, March 03, 2025
Trump and Democrats Preside Over an Empire in Crisis
In his address to Congress yesterday, Trump declared war on immigrants, civil rights reforms, Mexico, Canada, Denmark, Panama, social service programs, and more. Meanwhile, the Democrats only put up nominal, performative resistance — in keeping with their “play dead” strategy. Brian is joined by Dr. Nazia Kazi, a professor of Anthropology at Stockton University, and author of the book “Islamophobia, Race, and Global Politics.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 26, 2025
Trump-Musk Class War Strategy is Starting to Backfire w/ Eugene Puryear
The real “Trump program” is coming into focus as the administration dramatically changes U.S. domestic and foreign policy. It’s “Robin Hood in reverse,” take from the poor to give to the rich. Protests have started around the country as the mass firing of public sector workers hits social programs, communities, and families. Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, an author and political organizer, and co-host of The Freedom Side LIVE, a live video show every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern on BreakThrough News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, February 25, 2025
What the German Elections Show
On today's episode, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the results of the recent elections in Germany and what they mean for the world. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 19, 2025
Trump's Drastic Cuts: Federal Workforce, Services & Billionaires' Taxes
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff dissect the Trump administration's huge cuts and threats to the federal workforce and how that's related to credit card companies' huge increase in interest rates. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, February 15, 2025
Trump’s Rhetoric Encourages Israeli Fantasies of Gaza Takeover [Preview]
On this patrons-only episode, Brian and Layan discuss the current status of the ceasefire, Trump’s threats to take over Gaza, and the response from the Palestinian and Arab people. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Thu, February 13, 2025
Trump’s Plans: The Big Picture [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian and Nicole discuss the how to counter the far-right billionaire agenda that Musk, Trump, and the new administration are ushering in, what it seems like their aims and tactics are, the impact of Kendrick Lamar's halftime show, the contradictions in the cutting of USAID, the shadow cabinet concept that some Democrats are suggesting, the possible resumption of the Gaza genocide, Zohran Mamdani's run for mayor of New York, and more. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Wed, February 12, 2025
A Billionaire Dictatorship?
On today's episode, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Elon Musk's power grab, pushing federal workers out, dismantling federal agencies, and cutting funding. But people nationwide are resisting. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, February 08, 2025
Seizing Gaza: Can Trump Do What Israel Failed to Do? w/ Miko Peled, Son of Israeli General
Trump’s surreal claim that the United States will “own” Gaza, push out two million Palestinians, and develop expensive waterfront property for non-Palestinians has widely been condemned. But Miko Peled, son of an Israeli general, says this is no different than the Zionist aim for decades—and it will never happen. Brian Becker is joined by Miko Peled, a human rights activist and son of Israeli general. He is the host of The Miko Peled Podcast and author of “The General’s Son - A Journey of an Israeli in Palestine'' and "Injustice: The Story of the Holy Land Foundation Five.” You can find his podcast, books, and much more at mikopeled.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 05, 2025
Unelected Billionaire Elon Musk Takes Even More Power in Treasury Grab
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Elon Musk's promises to cancel contracts, grants, and myriad payments from the U.S. Treasury Department. U.S. capitalism has already allowed Musk to control hundreds of billions of dollars and therefore control lots of our society's production—this is the billionaire agenda, which gives him even more control of our resources and U.S. residents even less. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Fri, January 31, 2025
Trump Targets Student Protesters [Preview]
On this patrons-only episode, Brian & Layan discuss Trump's executive order to deport student protesters, Netanyahu's visit with Trump next week, Trump’s announcement of plans to completely ethnically cleanse the people of Gaza and why that won’t work, conflict within the administration, Trump’s ridiculous and racist blaming DEI for this week's heartbreaking airplane crash, and more. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Wed, January 29, 2025
China's DeepSeek Develops AI Model Like ChatGPT Without Newest Chips—And It's Free
On today's episode, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss DeepSeek, the newest AI technology developed cheaply by a Chinese company without the most advanced Nvidia chips, causing an almost $600 billion stock crash for Nvidia. What does this indicate about the state of U.S. technology, capitalism, and education? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, January 29, 2025
Trump’s ‘DEI’ Purge: a Trojan Horse to Overturn Civil Rights and Erase History
Trump and the billionaires are using the attack on DEI and “woke” policies as a Trojan horse for all-out war against Black America. They’re targeting the achievements and reforms of the civil rights movement, which expanded democracy for all U.S. residents. The stage is now set for an epic battle about the direction of this country. Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, an author and political organizer, and co-host of The Freedom Side LIVE, a live video show every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern on BreakThrough News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, January 25, 2025
Turkish Communist Leader on Middle East Politics After the Fall of Assad in Syria
Brian Becker and Kemal Okuyan -- the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Turkey (TKP) -- discuss Turkey's role in Syria, Turkish President Erdogan's aspirations for a neo-Ottoman era, and the dynamics of a changing Middle East region. Here is a link to the TKP statement mentioned in this show, on the fall of the Assad government in Syria: https://www.tkp.org.tr/en/agenda/tkp-cc-statement-following-the-success-of-the-imperialist-plan-for-disintegration-of-syria-we-will-win-our-country-not-lose-it/ Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, January 23, 2025
Trump’s Monroe Doctrine 2.0: Cuba, Venezuela Targeted in Hybrid War
Cuba and Venezuela are in the crosshairs of the new Trump administration, and Trump has already put Cuba back on the heavily sanctioned state sponsor of terrorism list without reason. With declarations of a “Monroe Doctrine 2.0” and threats to seize the Panama Canal, the sovereignty of all of Latin America is at stake. Brian is joined by Manolo De Los Santos, the executive director of The People’s Forum in New York, to discuss the tactics used in this hybrid war by U.S. imperialism against the country, which possesses the largest oil reserves in the world. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, January 22, 2025
The Billionaires Behind Trump
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Trump and the billionaires' priorities and plans now that Trump is in the White House. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, January 18, 2025
Gaza Ceasefire: Why the Israeli Right-Wing Feels Defeated [Preview]
On this patrons-only episode, Brian & Layan discuss the ceasefire in Gaza and why Netanyahu was finally forced to sign the agreement. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Thu, January 16, 2025
Gaza Ceasefire Explained: Reading Between The Lines
A ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel has been announced in Qatar. The Israeli cabinet is expected to formally approve the agreement Thursday morning. What does this mean for Palestine, the region, and the world? Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer, popular educator, and the Education Director at The People’s Forum. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, January 15, 2025
Huge L.A. Fires: The Capitalist Connection
On today's episode, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the mass fires engulfing many Los Angeles neighborhoods, killing 24 already and displacing over 100,000 people. As politicians and the media start to point fingers and find scapegoats to blame, Brian and Richard uncover the real culprit: capitalism and the profit motive. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, January 09, 2025
Greenland, Panama, Gulf of Mexico: Trump’s Cowboy Colonialism Isn’t a Joke
Trump previewed his priorities in a press conference this week, saying he would consider military force to seize the Panama Canal and Greenland, declare the Gulf of Mexico the ‘Gulf of America,’ and that “all hell will break out” if the Israeli hostages are not returned by the day he takes office on January 20, 2025. Brian Becker and Eugene Puryear discuss the real priorities and policies to expect from the incoming government of billionaires. Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, an author and political organizer, and co-host of The Freedom Side LIVE, a live video show every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern on BreakThrough News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, January 07, 2025
Global Politics Shifted in 2024, Multiple Crises Loom in 2025 [Preview]
2024 confirmed that there are three intersecting crises shaping world politics and shaking the capitalist system. Brian reviews how the Gaza genocide, and the mass movement in response to it, became the dominant geopolitical issue, and explains what he thinks is coming next. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Fri, December 27, 2024
How We Built a Mass Socialist Party in 10 Years, w/ Belgian MP Peter Mertens
Peter Mertens, Secretary General of the Workers’ Party of Belgium (PVDA-PTB) sits for a wide-ranging interview with Brian Becker, longtime socialist organizer and founding member of the Party for Socialism and Liberation. They discuss everything from Europe’s economic and political crisis, the window of opportunity for socialism, the U.S.’s goal of encircling China, to how the PYB renewed itself as a mass force in Belgian politics by changing its internal culture and digging deeper roots into the working class. The interview is full of lessons and insights from the movement in Europe and the United States. Mertens is a member of the Chamber of Representatives since 2019, and as a Municipal Councillor in Antwerp since 2013. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, December 24, 2024
Trump’s Plan for NATO
On this patrons-only episode, Brian & Layan discuss Trump‘s plans for NATO, Trump‘s threat to reconquer Panama, U.S. economic warfare against China, the U.S. bombing of Syria and Yemen—which continues—and who’s who in the Trump billionaire cabinet. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Sun, December 22, 2024
Where Is Syria Going After Assad and What’s Next for the Middle East?
What does the new government in Syria mean for the people of the country, Palestine, the region, and the new era of global politics? Brian Becker is joined by renowned journalist and author Vijay Prashad, the Executive Director of the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research and Chief Editor of LeftWord Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, December 18, 2024
Health Insurance Companies Rake in Billions While Health Care Is Ignored
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff unpack the news that health insurance companies raked in $9 trillion since 2010--including $120 billion to shareholders--while denying the health care that people pay dearly for. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, December 17, 2024
Israel Seizing Syrian Lands [Preview]
On this patrons-only episode, Brian & Layan discuss the latest in Syria, including Israel’s horrific attacks and seizure of Syrian territory, the new Syrian government’s demands against defending Palestine, and the response of the Palestinian resistance. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Thu, December 12, 2024
What the U.S. Media is Not Saying About Syria
The government of Bashar Al-Assad has fallen, and Israel has carried out more than 480 strikes in the last two days. The United States has been working for the past 15 years to topple the Syrian government. What comes next for Syria, the Middle East, and the people of Gaza? Brian is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer, a popular educator, and the Education Director at The People’s Forum. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, December 11, 2024
The Fallout From UnitedHealthcare CEO Assassination
On today's episode, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's assassination and the reverberations across the country—not of sympathy, but with widespread outrage against the health insurance industry. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, December 05, 2024
Koreans Rise Up Against Martial Law: U.S. Ally Set Back By Mass People’s Movement
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday, and South Koreans are demanding his impeachment. The US has maintained a close relationship with Yoon and plays a dominating role on the Korean peninsula. Brian and Jamie Tyberg, an organizer with Nodutdol, break through the lies about Korea, discuss the current unfolding situation, and bring out the history of Korea’s fight for democracy, unification, and against colonization. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, December 04, 2024
Will the Overinflated U.S. Finance Bubble Burst?
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the overinflated U.S. financial sector and stock market, what will happen when that bubble bursts, and Trump's threats to hit BRICS countries with 100% tariffs if they support using non-U.S. dollar currency. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, November 28, 2024
Is the Lebanon War Really Over? A Ceasefire Analysis & Review of Trump’s Foreign Policy [Preview]
On this patrons-only episode, Brian & Layan discuss the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, whether it will hold, and what it means for Palestine, and also how Trump’s new foreign policy team has embraced the Biden administration’s pro-war foreign policy. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Wed, November 27, 2024
Billionaire Takes Charge of U.S. Treasury
On today's episode, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Trump's pick for head of Treasury, billionaire and hedge fund manager Scott Bessent, who has promised a “global economic reordering.” Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, November 23, 2024
Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu! [Preview]
On this patrons-only episode, Brian & Layan discuss the arrest warrant that the International Criminal Court issued for Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant for the war crimes they’ve waged against the Palestinians people, Biden’s dramatic escalation of the war against Russia and Russia’s retaliation, and China helping to build a mega-port in Peru. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Thu, November 21, 2024
Biden Pushes War with Russia [Q&A Seminar Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian and Nicole discuss Biden’s major escalation in the Ukraine war, his vetoing the UN ceasefire resolution to end the genocide against Palestine, whether it’s time for a third party in the U.S., how to fight the far-right Trump agenda, and more. This is a preview of the full Q&A seminar for members of our Patreon community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, submit questions and register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Wed, November 20, 2024
Europe, China & The World Economy
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Chinese companies outperforming the West in the electric vehicle industry, a new European Union announcement begging China to share its technology, and what the U.S. government could be doing instead of tariffs on China from Trump and Biden. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, November 16, 2024
Trump’s Foreign Policy, Marxists Win in Sri Lanka, Netanyahu’s Pretend Ceasefire Offer [Preview]
On this patrons-only episode, Brian & Layan discuss Trump's foreign policy, Netanyahu's so-called ceasefire 'gift,' the Marxist electoral sweep in Sri Lanka, Trump's cabinet picks, the fightback on Trump's first day in office, Jan 20. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Thu, November 14, 2024
Trump’s ‘Populism’ Fraud: Cabinet Stacked for Ultra-Right, Billionaire Agenda
Trump is filling key cabinet positions with a range of MAGA diehards. Some are Christian fundamentalists, some are fascistic, some are neocons, but nearly all are ultra-right extremists who want to implement his agenda for the billionaires. Brian and Walter Smolarek analyze his picks to enable us to defend our rights and fight for a better system. This was recorded hours before the announcement of Matt Gaetz and Tulsi Gabbard for Attorney General and National Director of Intelligence. Brian is joined by Walter Smolarek, editor of Liberation News and a producer of The Socialist Program. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, November 13, 2024
Capitalism Is the Root of This Crisis
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the Democrats' failure to discuss the economy—despite it consistently being a vital issue for voters—and how to defeat Trump's far-right agenda. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, November 09, 2024
Does Trump’s Victory Signal a Major Political Realignment in the United States? [Preview]
On this patrons-only episode, Brian & Layan discuss the election results, what they show us about the shifting political landscape, and how we can take action and move forward. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Thu, November 07, 2024
The Real Reason Trump Won: The Failure of the Democratic Party
Donald Trump won the presidency for a second time. Brian and Eugene discuss the Trump comeback, why it happened, and what to expect. Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, an author and political organizer, and co-host of The Freedom Side LIVE, a live video show every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern on BreakThrough News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month
Wed, November 06, 2024
Wall Street’s View of the Election
On today's episode, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss world’s largest asset management firm Blackrock CEO Larry Fink’s comments that the presidential election “doesn’t matter.” How does Wall Street view the possible election outcomes? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, November 02, 2024
Israel’s Impact on the U.S. Elections [Preview]
On this special episode just a few days from Election Day, Brian & Layan discuss the effect Israel is having on the U.S. presidential election, what Israel thinks about the election, and whether there has been any Israeli interference. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content including live Q&A seminars with Brian Becker, and help keep this show on the air.
Thu, October 31, 2024
Does a Trump Win Mean Fascism? The Socialist View
Kamala Harris and Donald Trump appear to be neck and neck in the presidential election, bringing the possibility of a second Trump term closer to reality. But would a Trump victory really bring the end of democracy and the rise of fascism? Brian Becker and Eugene Puryear put election 2024 in its historical context, reviewing key moments to understand this moment such as the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, the rise of Hitler's Germany, and the George Floyd uprisings. Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, an author and political organizer, and co-host of The Freedom Side LIVE, a live video show every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern on BreakThrough News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 30, 2024
Trump and Harris’s Economic Program: Is There a Difference?
On today's episode, one week from the presidential election, Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the proposed economic policies of Harris and Trump and what effect they will have on working people. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, October 24, 2024
Exposed: Israeli Spies in U.S. Media & How the Media Manufactures Consent for Genocide and Empire
Most people don’t know the extraordinary methods used to influence and shape a pro-Israeli narrative in the corporate owned mainstream media. Practices like banning the use of the word genocide allows U.S. policy makers to normalize imperialism and Israel’s killing spree in Gaza and Lebanon. Brian Becker is joined by Alan MacLeod, a journalist with a PhD in Sociology, senior staff writer for MintPress News, and author of several books including 'Misreporting and Propaganda in the Information Age: Still Manufacturing Consent.' He recently published the article 'Revealed: The Israeli Spies Writing America’s News' (https://www.mintpressnews.com/revealed-israel-unit-8200-spies-american-media/288457/) Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 23, 2024
Dictatorship of the Elite: Big Tech Capitalists Decide for Us on Nuclear, Health & Climate Change
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the recent decisions by big tech capitalists to reopen old nuclear plants and fund research into new nuclear research, despite the huge health risks. Richard explains how monopolies use advertising to rebrand dangerous products like nuclear energy—evidence of the dictatorship of the bourgeoisie. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, October 17, 2024
The U.S. Seeks Global Supremacy Through New Middle East War w/ Vijay Prashad
The western capitalist media is deliberately misleading people about the US-Israeli aggression against Palestine and Lebanon and the looming possibility of a war with Iran. Vijay Prashad and Brian discuss the true relationship between the U.S. and Israel, what lessons from history tell us about U.S. foreign policy goals, and the nature of imperialist expansion. Brian Becker is joined by renowned journalist and author Vijay Prashad, the Executive Director of the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research and Chief Editor of LeftWord Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, October 08, 2024
Hit by Hurricanes and Crushed by Insurance Companies
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss insurance companies dropping hurricane victims from their rolls and not paying out despite horrendous conditions from Hurricane Helene and with severe Milton on the way. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, October 08, 2024
Netanyahu Dragging US Into War With Iran w/ Mohammad Marandi
Regional war in the Middle East is rapidly expanding while Kamala Harris stated that Iran is the number one adversary of the United States and Donald Trump announced that he was ready to obliterate Iranian cities. Brian is joined by Mohammad Marandi, an expert on American studies who teaches at the University of Tehran. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, October 03, 2024
Lebanon War Rages, Iran Hits Back, Middle East Explodes in Regional War, w/ Ben Norton
Israel is at war with Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and now Iran. More than 180 Iranian missiles struck Israel on Tuesday. For the last year Israel has carried out a non-stop killing spree in Gaza—that war is now part of a larger regional war in the Middle East. Brian Becker is joined by Ben Norton, an investigative journalist currently based in Beijing, and the editor of the independent news website Geopolitical Economy Report, at geopoliticaleconomy.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 02, 2024
Banks in 21st Century Capitalism
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss who the big banks are in today's economy and industry will always avoid regulations. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, October 01, 2024
After Assassinating Nasrallah, Israel Prepares Larger War in Lebanon and Beyond [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, we focus on the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah and what it means, the prospects for the Israeli military invasion of Lebanon, and the real attitude of the Biden-Harris administration -- which is hoping for an all out victory for Israel and not a cease-fire. This is a preview of the full Q&A seminar for members of our Patreon community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, submit questions and register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Thu, September 26, 2024
Israel’s Killing Spree Expands to Lebanon: Why Lebanon Will Win
Israeli air strikes in Lebanon are creating carnage, and the death toll is now soaring—including many children. One week ago Israel turned thousands of people in Lebanon into human bombs by inserting explosives into their communication devices. Brian and Ghadi discuss the devastation, why Israel and the US can’t win, and the secret Sykes-Picot treaty. Brian Becker is joined by Ghadi Francis, Lebanese writer, war correspondent, and host of TV show The West Asia Post. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 25, 2024
Trump Promises Global Trade War
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Trump's economic program, including his threats to impose massive tariffs on Deere's farming equipment if they move operations to Mexico as planned. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, September 19, 2024
Will Pager Explosions Spark Regional War? Israel’s Long History of Terror in Lebanon
Israel turned thousands of people in Lebanon into human bombs on Tuesday with a sophisticated terrorist attack. Thousands of pagers exploded at the same time around the country, killing and injuring many, and the next day the Israelis carried out another major attack. Brian and Layan delve into the decades of Israeli terrorism against Lebanon, the U.S. corporate media’s “light-hearted” coverage, and the arrogant imperialist policies that started it all. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 18, 2024
Soaring U.S. Debt & Class Struggle
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the increasing debt in the working class, why we're in so much debt, and who is responsible. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, September 12, 2024
Blocked from Debate, Socialist Candidate Claudia De la Cruz Blasts ‘Spectacle’ of Democracy
Kamala Harris and Donald Trump’s first, and likely last, debate was held last night. America’s tortured form of “democracy” was on display for the whole world to see. Brian Becker is joined by Claudia De La Cruz, a presidential candidate for the Party for Socialism & Liberation, a lifelong community organizer and popular educator. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 11, 2024
A Crisis in Europe
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss a newly released report aiming to assess and fix Europe's economic decline against the United States and China. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 04, 2024
Where AI Isn't a Four Letter Word: China Builds Robots to Aid Workers
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss China's increasing use and production of robots to help workers amid a large population decline. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 28, 2024
How Both Ruling Class Parties Use Taxes to Keep Corporations Wealthy
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Kamala Harris's newly released tax proposals, Trump's 2017 tax cuts that will expire in 2025, and the role the capitalist system uses taxes to play in making the rich richer. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, August 26, 2024
Huge Israeli Strikes in Lebanon, Harris & Trump's Shared Militarism, & Ending the Genocide [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian & Nicole discuss the massive weekend Israeli air strikes in Lebanon and the threat of a larger war, the Democrats' and Republicans' shared goal for militarism and war, Russia's position in global politics, U.S. ruling class analysis of multipolarity, Navajo protests for sovereignty and against dangerous plutonium on their lands, the political dynamics in the modern labor movement, and more. This is a preview of the full Q&A seminar for members of our Patreon community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, submit questions and register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Fri, August 23, 2024
Facts and Lies at DNC — The Democrats’ False Promise
On today's episode Nicole Roussell interviews Brian about the Democratic Party Convention, with Kamala as the new nominee, while the war in Gaza rages on and millions of people in the US continue to live in or near poverty. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 21, 2024
Food Prices Under Biden-Harris Slammed Working-Class Families But Now They Pretend to Have an Answer
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the Democratic National Convention and the Democrats' double talk on price gouging, as well as a new report showing that hundreds of for-profit and not-for-profit colleges have closed in the last decade. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 15, 2024
Iran and Israel Prepare for Regional War as US Warships Deploy to Middle East
Will the Middle East erupt into a widespread, large-scale regional war after the Israeli government assassinated senior leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah? Brian is joined by Mohammad Marandi to get insight into what’s happening in Tehran. He is an expert on American studies and teaches at the University of Tehran. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 08, 2024
Imperialism’s Non-Stop War Against Venezuela
In the latest Venezuelan election, the U.S. brought out its imperialist toolkit of lies and propaganda to try to overturn the democratically elected government of Nicolas Maduro. But so far it hasn’t worked, with hundreds of thousands mobilizing to defend the government and the military still intact. Brian is joined by Manolo De Los Santos, the executive director of The People’s Forum in New York, to discuss the tactics used in this hybrid war by U.S. imperialism against the country, which possesses the largest oil reserves in the world. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 07, 2024
Stocks Crash & Rebound: Is a New Recession Coming?
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the stock crash earlier this week and why it indicates a recession is coming, as well as the ruling that Google's huge payments to Apple and others to keep Google the default search option are illegal monopolizing. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 01, 2024
Israel Assassinates Hamas Negotiator, Venezuela Stops Coup, Politics of the 2024 Olympics [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian & Nicole discuss Israel's assassination of Hamas negotiator Ismail Haniyek, the coup attempt in Venezuela amid presidential elections, what countries are allowed in the the 2024 Olympics and which are not, "anti-war" Republicans, the dissolution of Project 2025, and more. Venezuela explainer video referenced during the seminar: https://x.com/BTnewsroom/status/1818429996932739455 This is a preview of the full Q&A seminar for members of our Patreon community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, submit questions and register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Wed, July 31, 2024
How Huawei Is Beating U.S. Sanctions
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how Chinese technology company Huawei has grown so successful despite U.S. sanctions, and what it says about the state of the world economy. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 24, 2024
With Kamala Harris, Ruling Class Knows It Can Get a Nice Night’s Sleep
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Kamala Harris's record and the interests she represents now that she's the presumptive Democratic party nominee for president. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, July 22, 2024
Biden Drops Out, Netanyahu Seeks Wider War in Middle East [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian & Walter discuss Biden dropping out of the presidential race, what effects it will have on U.S. politics, Netanyahu speaking to Congress, the danger of regional war now that Israel has bombed Yemen, the Democrats trying to remove an independent candidate who is rightfully on the ballot in Georgia, and more. This is a preview of the full Q&A seminar for members of our Patreon community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis. A link from the discussion: https://www.icj-cij.org/case/186
Thu, July 18, 2024
The Trump Shooting and the Crisis of U.S. Capitalism
Donald Trump just survived an assassination attempt at a campaign rally, irreversibly changing the state of U.S. politics. The incident produced images of a strong and defiant Trump, and it almost certainly produced a political climate more favorable for his re-election. Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear to consider how both elite parties will respond to growing political instability by further lurching to the right. Eugene Puryear is an author and political organizer, and co-host of The Freedom Side LIVE, a live video show every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern on BreakThrough News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 17, 2024
Trump and the Billionaires
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss venture capital and Big Tech billionaires like Elon Musk coming out in support of Donald Trump. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, July 11, 2024
Biden v. Trump: The Perfect Picture of the Decline of U.S. Empire
Is Donald Trump on his way to a landslide victory? Joe Biden’s disastrous performance raises the question: Why are Democratic leaders sticking with him as their party heads into the abyss? Brian is joined by Walter Smolarek, editor of Liberation News and a producer of The Socialist Program. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 10, 2024
France Marches Left as Far Right Suffers Huge Setback
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the recent election in France where the New Popular Front, a leftist coalition, trounced the right-wing coalition and President Macron's Ensemble. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 03, 2024
French Election: Left Unites to Take on Far Right as Macron's Corporate "Centrists" Collapse
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the results of the French election that have sent shockwaves throughout the world economy and world politics as the far right scored a first round victory. With President Macron’s party sidelined, it is up to a new alliance of left wing parties to stop the far right candidates when the second round takes place this weekend. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, July 02, 2024
With U.S. Weapons Still Flowing, Will Israel Invade Lebanon?
Israeli threats to launch an all-out invasion of southern Lebanon are growing more severe by the day. Meanwhile, the fighting in Gaza rages on with no ceasefire in sight. The Biden administration claims to be seeking an end to the fighting and de-escalation across the region, but refuses to touch the steady flow of arms and ammunition that makes Israel's aggression possibe. Brian is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join and submit questions to the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 27, 2024
Exposed: How Biden & Ukraine’s Fascists Worked Together to Block Peace with Russia
Newly released treaty negotiation documents show that Ukraine and Russia were very close to ending the war—more than two years ago, in April 2022. But U.S. imperialists and NATO have worked with and strengthened the right-wing in Ukraine to achieve their long-term goals in the region, including endless war, no matter how many people die. Brian Becker is joined by Eugene Puryear, co-host of The Freedom Side, to discuss the newly revealed documents showing how the Ukraine war nearly ended two years ago but were sabotaged by the intervention of the White House and the Ukrainian far-right. They discuss how Ukraine’s economy has been totally mortgaged to U.S. and European interests. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 20, 2024
EXPOSED: CIA Ran Massive Covert Operation Against China's Covid Vaccine [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian & Nicole discuss the revelations that the CIA ran anti-vaccine campaigns against Chinese vaccines in the Philippines and other countries in the Global South, the clause in the NDAA automatically enlisting men and women between 18 and 26, new documents showing how close Russia and Ukraine were to a negotiation in 2022, an important meeting between Russian President Putin and DPRK Leader Kim Jong Un, a speech from Hezbollah leader Nasrallah about Israel, and more. This is a preview of the full Q&A seminar for members of our Patreon community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Wed, June 19, 2024
Capitalist Speculators Drive the Dangerous Math Behind Nuclear Energy
On today's episode Nicole Roussell and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss speculators driving the surge in uranium prices and the demand for nuclear energy despite its huge risks for people’s health. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 13, 2024
State of US & Global Politics, Myths About Socialism, French Popular Front & US Origins [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian & Nicole discuss the rise of the far right in the recent EU Parliament elections and assessments of U.S. political mood in 2024 elections, the racist character of U.S. capitalism, the formation of a new popular front in France, how socialism could look in the United States, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for members of our Patreon community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Thu, June 06, 2024
Israel’s Real Plan: Expand War, Reject Ceasefire, and String Biden Along
Israel prepares for a bigger war in Gaza despite its failures and the global condemnation for the invasion of Rafah. Even though Hamas has agreed to a deal, Joe Biden claims the problem with reaching a ceasefire is Hamas and the Palestinian resistance. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, June 03, 2024
Wall Street’s War Against U.S. Workers: The Political Impact of Mass Layoffs
More than 20 million mass layoffs in recent years have had a devastating effect on individuals, families, and communities. In the past few election cycles, the media has claimed that working class Americans vote for Republicans because they foolishly vote against their own interests. Author and executive director of the Labor Institute Les Leopold argues that they're ignoring the enormous effects of mass layoffs on millions of U.S. workers in recent decades, in his newest book Wall Street’s War on Workers. Brian is joined by Les Leopold, co-founder and executive director of the Labor Institute and author of several books, including most recently "Wall Street's War on Workers: How Mass Layoffs and Greed Are Destroying the Working Class and What to Do About It." You can find more of his writing on lesleopold.substack.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 30, 2024
Biden’s ‘Red Line’ Was a Lie: U.S. Sponsored Massacre in Rafah
All eyes are on Rafah as Israeli forces murder Palestinians, even children in refugee camps designated as ‘safe zones.’ Yet Biden continues his support, providing the U.S. bombs that rain down on Rafah. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, organizer, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. She spoke at the People’s Conference for Palestine last weekend and says on June 8, people will descend on the White House to “draw their own red line” against genocide. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 29, 2024
U.S. Health System Fails Cancer Patients, But Wildly Successful for Investors
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss skyrocketing costs for cancer treatment in the United States, where 66.5% of all personal bankruptcies are already due to medical costs, but the six largest private health care insurers made $41 billion in profits in 2022. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 23, 2024
Law is Clear: Palestinians Have Right to Resist Occupation w/ Vijay Prashad
President Joe Biden is joining with Trump backers in Congress in imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court – the ICC – because the court issued a statement that Benjamin Netanyahu should be arrested for war crimes. Meanwhile the U.S. is sending more bombs and missiles to Israel as hundreds of thousands of Palestinians flee Rafah. Brian Becker is joined by renowned journalist and author Vijay Prashad, the Executive Director of the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research and Chief Editor of LeftWord Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 22, 2024
Stock Market Record: Wall Street Celebrates, Workers Suffer
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss The Dow Jones stock index closed above 40,000 for the first time in its history last Friday. Wall Street uncorked the champagne to celebrate this milestone, but working people are totally left out of the stock market boom. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 16, 2024
‘Lesser of Two Evils’ Logic Destroyed w/ Eugene Puryear
Trump is beating Biden in the polls in several key swing states. The Democrats have pushed the logic of ‘the lesser of two evils’ argument for years, yet the country has moved to the right. They give voice to many key issues people are struggling with, but their solutions never address the roots of them and often they sabotage their own meager solutions. Brian Becker is joined by Eugene Puryear, author, activist, and co-host of The Freedom Side LIVE, which airs every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern on BreakThrough News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 15, 2024
Biden’s Tariff War on Clean Energy
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the lies both parties are telling about the effects on climate and jobs of tariffs slapped on electric vehicles from China. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 09, 2024
Thousands of U.S. Students Arrested While Israel Invades Rafah
In a massive, nationally coordinated crackdown, the United States has arrested nearly 3,000 U.S. students in the last week. Many have been beaten, pepper sprayed, and tear gassed; expelled from their housing; and many will be expelled from their university altogether. Using U.S. bombs and missiles, the Israeli military has launched a devastating assault on people in Rafah—where more than one million Palestinians took refuge from previous Israeli bombing. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, organizer, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books, and Manolo De Los Santos, researcher at Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research and founder and executive director of The People’s Forum in New York. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 08, 2024
Wall Street’s Dream Is Privatizing Social Security & Medicare…But They’re Here to Stay!
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the latest fear-mongering over the solvency of Medicare and Social Security, the two most popular programs in the United States. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 02, 2024
The Colonial Roots of Zionism: Palestine, Israel, and the U.S. Empire Part 2: 1947-1967
Starting with the illegal UN vote to partition Palestine in 1947, this second episode in a series goes over the colonial, racist history of the zionist project up until the 1967 Six-Day War. Listen to the first one on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. This was recorded April 26, 2024. Brian is joined by Richard Becker, the author of the newly updated book, "Palestine, Israel, and U.S. Empire," published by 1804 Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 01, 2024
It’s May Day! Understanding How Every Worker Is Exploited by Their Boss
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff explain why and how workers actually do make all of our goods, including what capitalists claim is what they bring to the table—the production equipment, buildings, desks, work tables, machines to harvest raw materials, and more. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, April 25, 2024
Student Uprising Spreads as US & Israel Plan Rafah Invasion
As the Pentagon and U.S. elite provide Israel more weaponry and urge a Mosul, Iraq-style mass demolition in Rafah, protest encampments on college campuses are erupting nationwide. And in the face of evictions from student housing, arrests, threats of bringing in the National Guard, and more repression, students are standing strong for the Palestinian people. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a Palestinian organizer with the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, a popular educator, organizer, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, April 22, 2024
Lenin and the Path to Revolution [Part 1]
The Socialist Program presents a new special 3-part, more than 5-hour-long podcast series on the legacy of Russian Marxist V.I. Lenin, based on a class series by Brian Becker at The People’s Forum in November and December 2023, enhanced with historical audio recordings and more. This series provides a specific approach to studying Lenin's writings for a new generation of socialist organizers. It discusses the war in Gaza and the struggle of the Palestinian people for national liberation, and outlines Lenin's organizational and tactical outlook in the era of modern imperialism. This is Part 1 of Lenin and the Path to Revolution Below are details of historical audio clips included in this episode that may not be otherwise identified by listening: 5:50 - Tchaikovsky - Symphony No. 6 in B minor, Op. 74, written in 1893 (a favorite of Lenin) 8:53 - Excerpt of Lenin’s speech “What is Soviet Power?” recorded March 1919 14:28 - Recording of Tsar Nicolas II addressing soldiers in 1910 37:45 - Journalist John Pilger speaking with a U.S. soldier in Vietnam, 1970 52:02 - Eyewitness account of the February Revolution from the Kennan Institute Russian History Audio Archive 1:21:14 - Marching Song of the First Arkansas Regiment (U.S. Civil War) 1:28:36, 1:28:56 - News report on House Un-American Activities Committee investigation in Hollywood, 1947 1:29:44, 1:30:15 - Anderson Cooper and Bernie Sanders at the Democratic Party presidential debate in Las Vegas, 2015 /// Help make this show possible by joining our patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram
Mon, April 22, 2024
Lenin and the Path to Revolution [Part 2]
The Socialist Program presents a new special 3-part, more than 5-hour-long podcast series on the legacy of Russian Marxist V.I. Lenin, based on a class series by Brian Becker at The People’s Forum in November and December 2023, enhanced with historical audio recordings and more. This series provides a specific approach to studying Lenin's writings for a new generation of socialist organizers. It discusses the war in Gaza and the struggle of the Palestinian people for national liberation, and outlines Lenin's organizational and tactical outlook in the era of modern imperialism. This is Part 2 of Lenin and the Path to Revolution Below are details of historical audio clips included in this episode that may not be otherwise identified by listening: 12:28 - Eugene Puryear speaking at the National March On Washington for Palestine, November 4th 2023 30:04 - Brian Becker speaking at anti-war rally in Washington, D.C., January 18, 2003 56:37 - ‘John Brown’s Body’ - popular song in the U.S. Civil War 1:36:28 - Joe Biden (then a senator) speaking in Congress, 1986 /// Help make this show possible by joining our patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram
Mon, April 22, 2024
Lenin and the Path to Revolution [Part 3]
The Socialist Program presents a new special 3-part, more than 5-hour-long podcast series on the legacy of Russian Marxist V.I. Lenin, based on a class series by Brian Becker at The People’s Forum in November and December 2023, enhanced with historical audio recordings and more. This series provides a specific approach to studying Lenin's writings for a new generation of socialist organizers. It discusses the war in Gaza and the struggle of the Palestinian people for national liberation, and outlines Lenin's organizational and tactical outlook in the era of modern imperialism. This is Part 3 of Lenin and the Path to Revolution Below are details of historical audio clips included in this episode that may not be otherwise identified by listening: 5:56 - Eyewitness to the Russian Revolution, from documentary ‘Images of a Revolution,’ 1987 7:35 - Eyewitness to the Russian Revolution, from documentary ‘Images of a Revolution,’ 1987 10:08 - Member of the public asks president Obama a question during a town hall meeting, 2009 12:02 - Then-House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi at a town hall responding to a question from a member of the public asking if the Democratic Party could move left on economics, 2017 54:39 - Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Winston Churchill speaking in 1954 58:49 - Andy Stapp of the American Servicemen's Union, speaking at the Black Panther Anti-Fascism Conference, 1969 /// Help make this show possible by joining our patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram
Thu, April 18, 2024
Danger of a Regional War, China Nuclear Proposal & U.S. Class Analysis [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian & Nicole discuss the danger of a regional war in the Middle East, U.S. crackdown on supporters of Palestine, China's proposal to the US to commit to no nuclear first strikes, a class analysis of modern U.S. society, and more. Links referenced during the seminar: Video show with Mohammad Marandi: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdCyssFsWsc Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/posts/iran-doesnt-want-102492180 Petition to reinstate Professor Jodi Dean: https://www.change.org/p/revoke-professor-jodi-dean-s-suspension-from-teaching-at-hobart-and-william-smith-colleges Jodi's article: https://www.versobooks.com/blogs/news/palestine-speaks-for-everyone
Wed, April 17, 2024
Iran Doesn’t Want Larger War with Israel But is Ready For It w/ Prof. Mohammad Marandi
What is Iran’s military and political strategy now that it has struck back against Israel’s illegal bombing of its embassy, and with another cycle of escalation looming? Israel’s strikes killed over a dozen people, including two Iranian generals, while Iran’s response produced no casualties. Why is Israel escalating? What does global public opinion look like towards the U.S. Empire on one side and the “Axis of Resistance” on the other? What consequences could the U.S. face in the region if Israel strikes again? Brian Becker is joined by Prof. Mohammad Marandi, an expert on American studies and postcolonial literature who teaches at the University of Tehran. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, April 11, 2024
Biden’s Dilemma: Israel Now Faces Defeat Despite Its Military Rampage
U.S. officials are saying a negotiated ceasefire is near in Gaza, but Israel just killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh’s three sons in an airstrike, after bombing Iran’s embassy in flagrant violation of international law last week. Brian Becker is joined by Mohammed Nabulsi, organizer with the Palestinian Youth Movement and an attorney based out of Houston. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 10, 2024
Treasury Head Yellen’s New China Complaint
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the favorite new complaint against China voiced most recently by U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. She argues that China is producing too much. What does this mean and what does it say about the U.S. economy? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Fri, April 05, 2024
Can Latin America & Caribbean Unite Against the Empire? w/ Venezuela’s Former FM Jorge Arreaza
Jorge Arreaza, former Venezuelan Minister of Foreign Affairs, describes the historic fight against U.S. imperialism in Venezuela, Latin America & all over the world. Brian Becker is joined by Jorge Arreaza, Executive Secretary of the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America – People’s Trade Treaty (ALBA-TCP) and former Venezuelan Minister of Foreign Affairs. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 03, 2024
Labor Unions Fight for a Free Palestine!
Large labor unions have joined the massive movement in solidarity with the Palestinian people and have publicly called for a ceasefire in Gaza, an end to weapons shipments to Israel, and more. This involvement of the labor movement in the fight for Palestine is key for the Palestinian cause and for building solidarity among U.S. workers. Brian Becker is joined by Aminah Sheikh, labor and community organizer in Toronto, and Husayn Karimi, a labor organizer and a host of the labor podcast On The Line. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 28, 2024
Terrorism, the Ukraine-Russia War & Victoria Nuland’s ‘Nasty Surprises’
A massive terrorist attack targeting civilians in Moscow killed more than 140 people and wounded hundreds more. Meanwhile, the Biden administration and the Pentagon are demanding billions for more war against Russia in the asymmetric, proxy war being waged in Ukraine. Brian Becker is joined by Eugene Puryear, the author of the article “Should We Really Blame NATO for the Ukraine War?,” a political activist, and a co-host of The Freedom Side LIVE, a live video show every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern on BreakThrough News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, March 27, 2024
US Capitalists Flock to China as US Gov’t Says STOP China
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss US attempts to minimize China's production of computer chips, the scale of which is proving to be a big draw for US-based corporations. Is it really possible to ice China out of the global supply chain? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 21, 2024
Israeli General’s Son: Last 6 Months of Genocide Are ‘Beginning of the End’ for Israel
Israeli general’s son turned activist for Palestine Miko Peled describes why this huge shift in support for Palestinians is a turning point and “the beginning of the end of Israel.” Brian Becker is joined by Miko Peled, a human rights activist and son of Israeli general. He is the host of The Miko Peled Podcast and author of “The General’s Son - A Journey of an Israeli in Palestine” and "Injustice: The Story of the Holy Land Foundation Five.” You can find his podcast, books, and much more at mikopeled.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, March 20, 2024
New U.S. Threats Against Russia
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the new push by U.S. officials to pressure financial institutions in the global south to enforce U.S. sanctions against Russia. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 14, 2024
Even If They Invade Rafah, Israel Still Can’t Win the Larger War
The Israeli killing spree in Gaza has sparked a global movement united in support of the Palestinian people. Meanwhile the U.S. government sets imaginary “red lines” while facilitating the genocidal colonial project. This is a turning point in global history, and the Palestine solidarity movement in the West has a crucial role to play. Brian Becker is joined by Mohammed Nabulsi, organizer with the Palestinian Youth Movement and an attorney based out of Houston. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, March 13, 2024
TikTok Witch Hunt!
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Congress's attempt to ban TikTok and what's coming for the United States if it does. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 07, 2024
US & Israel’s Fake ‘Ceasefire Deal’ and What Hamas Is Really Demanding
The United States has vetoed a ceasefire resolution in Gaza three times in the United Nations, but is now blaming Hamas for the absence of one. In the negotiations, Hamas outlined their demands for a permanent ceasefire, return of Palestinian prisoners for the exchange of Israeli hostages, and a complete withdrawal of forces. But few of its stated positions get reported accurately in the Western media. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a popular educator, organizer, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, March 06, 2024
Billionaire Power: An American Obscenity
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss why five people in the world have nearly $1 trillion of our society's money when inventors, academics, and well renowned people in other fields get prizes or one-time cash rewards. And how can Jeff Bezos operate Amazon without profit for nine years whereas most businesses can only go a few months? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, February 29, 2024
Why He Died: Airman Aaron Bushnell Said ‘No’ to US-Israeli Genocide in Gaza
On February 25, active duty U.S. Airman Aaron Bushnell set himself on fire in front of the Israeli embassy in protest of the war on Gaza. He screamed “Free Palestine” as he burned. His heroic act has shown the profound shift in U.S. consciousness against Israel’s war on Palestine, and inspired even greater resistance. Brian Becker is joined by Mike Prysner, a veteran, anti-war activist, producer of The Empire Files & host of the podcast "Eyes Left.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, February 29, 2024
Why He Died: Airman Aaron Bushnell Said ‘No’ to US-Israeli Genocide in Gaza
On February 25, active duty U.S. Airman Aaron Bushnell set himself on fire in front of the Israeli embassy in protest of the war on Gaza. He screamed “Free Palestine” as he burned. His heroic act has shown the profound shift in U.S. consciousness against Israel’s war on Palestine, and inspired even greater resistance. Brian Becker is joined by Mike Prysner, a veteran, anti-war activist, producer of The Empire Files & host of the podcast "Eyes Left.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 28, 2024
Trump's 'Solution' to Inflation Is No Solution
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Trump's approach to inflation...and why blaming immigrants and other countries doesn't work. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, February 22, 2024
Why U.S. is Pushing “Long War” Strategy in Ukraine War
On the second anniversary of the Russian military intervention into Ukraine and the 10th anniversary of the U.S.-backed coup that created a pro-NATO puppet government in Ukraine, Brian and Vijay Prashad discuss U.S. long-term strategy toward Russia, Europe, and the Middle East. Brian Becker is joined by Vijay Prashad, the Executive Director of the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research, Chief Editor of LeftWord Books, and a prolific author, most recently publishing a new book with Noam Chomsky called “The Withdrawal: Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, and the Fragility of U.S. Power.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 21, 2024
Why Are Workers Drowning in Credit Card Debt?
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss why workers have so much credit card debt while financial giant Capital One tries to buy another financial giant, Discover, for more than $35 billion. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, February 15, 2024
Why Can’t the Democrats Do Better Than ‘Genocide Joe’?
Joe Biden can’t remember the names of Hamas or the president of Mexico, but he is still all in for Israel’s genocide against Palestinians, pushing Ukrainians to keep fighting and dying, and sending billions of dollars abroad for weapons. Brian Becker is joined by Eugene Puryear, the author of the book “Shackled and Chained,” a political activist, and a co-host of The Freedom Side LIVE, a live video show every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern on BreakThrough News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 14, 2024
Why Higher Prices Are Here to Stay: The Hidden Truth About Inflation
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss what really causes inflation as housing costs continue to spike, increasing six percent–triple the Federal Reserve’s target. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, February 13, 2024
The Colonial Roots of Zionism: Palestine, Israel, and the U.S. Empire
The Israeli state was born in 1948 when zionists colonized Palestine. What are the colonial roots of Israel and what role does Israel play in the pursuit of policies mirroring the interests of U.S. and western imperialism? Brian is joined by Richard Becker, the author of the newly updated book, "Palestine, Israel, and U.S. Empire," published by 1804 Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, February 08, 2024
Netanyahu Rejects Hamas Offer: Middle East Set To Explode in Wider War
As negotiations over the war in Gaza continue, Hamas delivered a three-part proposal that would end in a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli military from Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu rejected the proposal, vowing to fight until “an absolute victory.” Is that possible for Israel? How will this genocidal war end? Brian Becker is joined by Mohammed Nabulsi, an organizer with the Palestinian Youth Movement and an attorney based out of Houston, and Layan Sima Fuleihan, a popular educator, organizer, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 07, 2024
California Flood Victims Abandoned By Capitalist Insurance Companies
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the humongous floods in California that have wreaked damage across Southern California. Just 52,400 homes and businesses are projected to be covered by insurance—less than 1% of the more than 7.7 million households in the affected area. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, February 01, 2024
PFLP Leader Speaks About Gaza, Ceasefire Prospects and the Future for Palestine
In an exclusive interview, Brian Becker spoke with Haytham Abdo, a representative of The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) in Lebanon, about his perspective on the war in Gaza. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, January 25, 2024
Israeli Genocide Verdict? US-Israel Will Lose War Against Palestine and Yemen w/ Vijay Prashad
The U.S. is amplifying its war on Yemen, in retaliation for Yemen’s protest against the ongoing genocide in Palestine. Meanwhile, the International Court of Justice will rule on South Africa’s case against Israeli genocide. Brian Becker is joined by Vijay Prashad, the Executive Director of the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research, Chief Editor of LeftWord Books, and a prolific author, most recently publishing a new book with Noam Chomsky called “The Withdrawal: Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, and the Fragility of U.S. Power.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, January 20, 2024
The Bombing of Yemen, the War in Gaza, Nikki Haley & the Racist Character of the US [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian discusses the political reasons why Netanyahu will keep trying to expand the war in Gaza, why Biden is still supporting him, what it will take to stop the genocide, Russia and China’s role, the use of AI in warfare, an organized tax revolt as a tactic, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Wed, January 17, 2024
AI Plus Capitalism a Recipe for Mass Unemployment?
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the dramatic new report from the IMF showing that 40 percent of all jobs in the world could be impacted by the introduction of Artificial Intelligence. Fears are deepening about mass unemployment, exploding inequality, and other potential consequences of the integration of this new technology into the world capitalist system. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, January 11, 2024
Israel Plans Even Wider War: Palestinian Struggle Enters Decisive Stage
While Israel is escalating its attacks on Palestine and its neighbors, it has still not achieved its proclaimed goals, and resistance to Israel’s genocide is growing around the world. Palestine’s allies in the region are not backing down, and in the U.S. another massive national march on Washington is planned for this Saturday. Brian Becker is joined by Yara Shoufani, a member of the Palestinian Youth Movement and a PhD student in Political Science at York University, and Jeanine Hourani, a member of PYM and PhD in Middle East Politics at University of Exeter. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, January 04, 2024
Attacks in Lebanon & Iran: Netanyahu Wants to Drag U.S. Into Wider War w/ Mohammad Marandi
Prof. Marandi of the University of Tehran says Israel can’t win a wider war against Lebanon and Iran. But these countries will have to respond to the recent terror attacks—and Israel’s war against Palestine may expand into a regional conflict nonetheless. Israel bombed Lebanon, assassinating senior Hamas political leader Saleh al-Arouri, followed by a series of explosions at the memorial service for Iranian General Qaseem Solemani, which killed over 100 people. Will the war widen? Will the U.S. ever pull back from its support for the genocidal Israeli regime? Brian Becker is joined by Prof. Mohammad Marandi. He is an expert on American studies and postcolonial literature who teaches at the University of Tehran. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, January 03, 2024
Don't Believe Everything You Read: Was the 2023 Economy Really As Wonderful As the Capitalists Say?
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the lies economists tell us—like the "soft landing" they're claiming the economy had in 2023, when workers nationwide are experiencing sky high prices and low wages. What lies will we need to look out for in 2024? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, December 21, 2023
US Preparing for Regional War in Middle East: Imperialist Alliance Formed Against Yemen [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian discusses the new U.S. alliance to counter Yemen's ships from preventing materials going to Israel while the genocide is ongoing, media censorship now and in past crises, the release of Alex Saab, the seizure of NewsClick funds in India, Israel and Ukraine's relationship, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Thu, December 14, 2023
Congress’s Witch Hunt Against Palestine Flips Reality On Its Head: Students Want to Stop a Genocide
The U.S. Congress and elite colleges and universities are spinning the reality that students are protesting to stop a genocide against Palestinians into the clear fabrication that they’re promoting one against Jewish people—something students haven’t called for. Students are facing repression at campuses nationwide but continue to stand up for their principles. Brian Becker is joined by Dr. Nazia Kazi, a professor of Anthropology and author of the book “Islamophobia, Race, and Global Politics.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, December 13, 2023
Behind Zelensky's Trip to Washington: The Ukraine War Is Financing US Capitalists
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's visit in Washington to procure more money for the war with Russia that keeps dragging on. While the lives of the American people are getting more expensive by the day, the political elite continue to prioritize weapons spending and war. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, December 07, 2023
Israel Arrests Thousands in West Bank as Gaza Fighting Enters ‘Decisive Phase’
Israel is arresting thousands of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank while it ramps up the campaign against Gaza. Since Israel’s military operation launched after October 7, it has arrested more than 3,640 Palestinians, including 41 journalists and more than 200 children. Brian Becker is joined by Tala Nasir, staff lawyer and spokesperson for the Addameer Prisoner Support and Human Rights Association, located in Ramallah. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, December 06, 2023
Oil Exec Presides Over COP28 Climate Summit: So What Are the Real Solutions?
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the UN COP28 climate summit where record numbers of fossil fuel lobbyists were given access, and the summit itself is presided over by the chief executive for an oil company. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, November 30, 2023
Israel Attacks During ‘Truce’: Will West Bank Explode? w/ Abby Martin
As the clock ticks down on the truce in Gaza, Israel has attacked and killed at least two children in Jenin, a city in the West Bank. Brian Becker is joined by Abby Martin, creator & host of the Empire Files and director and narrator of the documentary Gaza Fights for Freedom, at GazaFightsForFreedom.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, November 29, 2023
Biden’s Inflation Crisis Hypocrisy
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the role of corporate profit in rising prices and unaffordability. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, November 23, 2023
Will the Gaza Ceasefire Last? Why Palestine Can’t Be Defeated
More than 14,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 7, and this week Israel and Palestine came to an agreement for a four-day pause in the war. Will the pause extend into a permanent ceasefire? How did this agreement come about when this deal has been available since October? Brian Becker is joined by Yara Shoufani, a member of the Palestinian Youth Movement and a PhD student in Political Science at York University, and Mohammed Nabulsi, an organizer with the Palestinian Youth Movement and an attorney based out of Houston. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, November 22, 2023
60% Living Paycheck to Paycheck: Time for a New System
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the number of people in the U.S. living paycheck to paycheck and the level of disconnect the elites in government have from the working class. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, November 16, 2023
How the War Will End: Israel Can Kill, But Can’t Win
Israeli forces raided Gaza’s al-Shifa Hospital, including the emergency department, the surgical department, and the maternity ward in their ongoing assault that has killed more than 11,000 Palestinians. On Friday, people all over the world are walking out, striking, and protesting the genocide—read more at shutitdown4palestine.org. Brian Becker is joined by Layan Sima Fuleihan, a popular educator, organizer, the Education Director at The People’s Forum, and an editor at 1804 Books. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, November 15, 2023
Biden’s Economic Policies: Recession in 2024?
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how inflation is hitting our paychecks—despite financial reports stating good news. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, November 09, 2023
What ‘From the River to the Sea’ Really Means & Why Israel Can’t Win, w/ Vijay Prashad
More than 10,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel as countries around the world withdraw their ambassadors from Israel. But when the one Palestinian member of Congress, Rashida Tlaib, speaks in support of the Palestinian people, she is censured by the House of Representatives. Brian Becker is joined by Vijay Prashad, the Executive Director of the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research, Chief Editor of LeftWord Books, and a prolific author, most recently publishing a new book with Noam Chomsky called “The Withdrawal: Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, and the Fragility of U.S. Power.” He also spoke at the biggest march for Palestine in U.S. history last week, the November 4th National March on Washington. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, November 08, 2023
Cutthroat Bankers' New Scheme: Why Banks Are Suddenly Closing Accounts
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss why people all over the country are finding out at the checkout counter that their bank accounts aren't working. Banks are suddenly closing accounts—sometimes without any notice—in what bankers are calling "de-risking," despite the individuals, families, and small businesses that are hit not doing anything wrong. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, November 02, 2023
Israel’s Genocidal Rampage in Gaza: at the Brink of Regional War w/ Rania Khalek
After Israel bombed a refugee camp in Gaza for a second time, the global tide is turning against the genocidal campaign and apartheid state. Brian Becker is joined by Rania Khalek of BreakThrough’s own news show Dispatches. Rania is a journalist based in the Middle East, she hosts Dispatches, and she’s also the co-host of The Freedom Side Live, both of which you can find on YouTube at BreakThroughNews. You can also find her prodigious reporting on social media @RaniaKhalek. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, October 26, 2023
Why The U.S. Government Backs Israel War Crimes [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian discusses why Netanyahu has called for "a long war," what it would take for the US to cease its support of Israel's genocide, what we can be doing right now to support Palestine, how to discuss this within other campaigns, what motivates the CIA's anti-communist witchhunts, the housing bubble in China, Modi's government's crackdowns, and more. Link to November 4th National March On Washington for Palestine referenced in this show: https://www.answercoalition.org/national_march_for_palestine_saturday_nov_4 This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Wed, October 25, 2023
$106 Billion for Israel, Ukraine, Taiwan: How War Spending Subsidizes Capitalism
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Biden's push to spend $106 billion on Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan, rather than on housing, bridges, or schools. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, October 19, 2023
Iran Analyst: Regional War is Coming Unless Israel Stops Its Attack
Prof. Marandi of the University of Tehran says a larger war, involving Iran, Hezbollah and others, is becoming more likely by the day as Israel continues its bombardment of Gaza. President Biden is now visiting Israel, doubling down on the United States’ unconditional support of the apartheid regime. Days after the Un documented how Israel had struck schools and hospitals where Palestinians had taken refuge, a major hospital suffered a direct hit, killing more than 500. Brian Becker is joined by Professor Mohammad Marandi. He is an expert on American studies and postcolonial literature who teaches at the University of Tehran. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 18, 2023
Opioid Epidemic & Capitalism: Rite-Aid Goes Under From Opioid Lawsuits But Opioid Overdoses Soar
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Rite-Aid's folding due to lawsuits from the pharmaceutical corporation's role in the opioid epidemic, what happens to the industry with a major player going under, and how capitalism fuels the opioid crisis. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, October 12, 2023
The ‘Sheer Evil’ of Israel’s War Crimes: Israeli General’s Son Speaks Out
Miko Peled, the son of an Israeli general, explains the barbarity and criminal logic of the Israeli bombardment of Gaza. Palestinians are being massacred by Israel after the Al-Aqsa Flood uprising that began on October 7, with bombs hitting apartment buildings and ambulances, fuel running out, and Israel blockading food, water, and aid from the Gaza Strip — announced by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant as treatment for “human animals.” Meanwhile, Western media is pushing the narrative that presents Israelis as victims rather than the long-besieged Palestinians. What is the root of this war? How did a group of fighters take Israel’s well-funded army with a sophisticated surveillance arm by surprise? What is the status of the Israeli state? Brian Becker is joined by Miko Peled, a human rights activist, host of The Miko Peled Podcast, and author of “The General’s Son - A Journey of an Israeli in Palestine” and "Injustice: The Story of the Holy Land Foundation Five.” You can find his podcast, books, and much more at mikopeled.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 11, 2023
U.S. Healthcare Fails Patients But Nurses Fight Back
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the largest ever walkout of healthcare workers — 75,000 Kaiser Permanente employees walked out last week. What does this mean for healthcare workers and workers everywhere? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 04, 2023
Government to Student Loan Borrowers: Time to Pay Up!
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how student loan repayments have officials resumed after being frozen following the outbreak of the COVID pandemic. With millions across the country feeling the weight of this crushing debt burden again, what will it take to win relief? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, October 03, 2023
Why Canada’s Parliament Gave Standing Ovation for Ukrainian Nazi Soldier? [Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian discusses the Canadian parliament giving a Nazi soldier a standing ovation, conflict brewing in the territories of the former Yugoslavia, patron's questions, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Thu, September 28, 2023
The New McCarthyism and the New Cold War [Preview]
Brian Becker went on a four-city speaking tour this month. This is his talk at the first stop on the tour on September 14 in Denver, CO, with a packed house at the Denver Liberation Center. This episode is a preview of the full talk that is available for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this episode, support the show, join our monthly patron-only Q&A seminars, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Wed, September 27, 2023
The Politics of the Government Shutdown
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the looming government shutdown and what it shows about the U.S. capitalist system. Is it a stable democracy if it can't stay open? Why aren't lawmakers using the clear solutions at hand? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, September 21, 2023
Zelensky in Washington: US Prepares to Escalate Ukraine War
The opening week of the United Nations General Assembly shows clearly that this is a new era of global politics. Ukrainian President Zelensky threw down the hammer demanding more war, suggesting even an escalation to nuclear weapons, while Biden is trying desperately to break up the forming alliances in the Global South. Tomorrow Zelensky and Biden will meet in Washington, where they’ll make a hard sell for tens of billions more in war spending. Brian Becker is joined by Walter Smolarek, the editor of Liberation News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 20, 2023
Inflation and the Next Crash
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the criminal inaction of the White House and Congress against inflation and the rising costs of basic goods we need to live. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, September 14, 2023
Kim Meets Putin, Maduro Meets Xi: A New Era of Global Politics
New relationships are growing and strengthening among countries in the Global South. Leader of North Korea Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin are meeting, while Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro traveled to Beijing to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. What do these big geopolitical shifts mean for the residents of the Global South and the globe? Brian Becker is joined by Ben Norton, an investigative journalist based in Latin America, and editor of the independent news website Geopolitical Economy Report at geopoliticaleconomy.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 13, 2023
STRIKE! Autoworkers Are Ready!
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the real possibility of a massive strike as the contract for nearly 150,000 members of the United Auto Workers runs out on Thursday. Union members are demanding fair pay and protection from mass layoffs, but the Big Three auto companies — Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis — haven't yet agreed. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, September 07, 2023
War War War: Analyzing the Capitalist Media
On today's episode Nicole Roussell interviews Brian Becker about U.S. media coverage of the "huge threat" of Medicare costs to the U.S. budget, the Ukraine war, the U.S. pivot toward war with China, Putin and Kim Jong Un meeting this week, and the rising cost of car insurance. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 06, 2023
How Can the Labor Movement Keep up the Momentum?
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff mark Labor Day with a discussion on how workers are fighting back with intensity not seen in many years. From UPS to academic workers to writers and actors, major labor struggles have been erupting nationwide in a revolt against mounting inequality and corporate greed. And the next major fight on the horizon is a potential strike at the Big Three automakers. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 31, 2023
As Ukraine Death Toll Spirals, NATO Demands More Must Be Willing to Die
As the much-hyped Ukrainian counter-offensive fails to produce major military breakthroughs, officials in the West are becoming concerned that their proxy war against Russia is not going according to plan. But instead of negotiating a lasting peace, the instinct of the war makers is the opposite – double down on massive arms shipments, and insist that Ukrainians die in even larger numbers. Brian Becker is joined by Walter Smolarek, the editor of Liberation News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 30, 2023
BRICS expansion shakes western-dominated world order
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the BRICS summit in Johannesburg, which resulted in the historic expansion of the bloc. With six new members, will the BRICS be able to mount a more formidable challenge to the dominance of Washington and Wall Street over international finance and diplomacy? What does this mean for the working people of the world? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 24, 2023
BRICS Summit: China, Africa, Russia and the 23 New Applicants
As world leaders from the Global South convene in South Africa for the BRICS Summit this week, the West is watching closely. 23 countries have applied to join Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa in the grouping, which is focused on trade and development in their regions — typically dominated by colonizing powers in Europe and the United States. Where is BRICS headed and what unifies the grouping? Brian Becker is joined by Mikaela Nhondo Erskog, member of secretariat of Pan Africanism Today, researcher at Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research, member of No Cold War, and host of the podcast The Crane: An Africa-China podcast coming from the DongSheng News collective. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 23, 2023
Debt Is Crushing U.S. Workers
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the alarming pace of rising defaults on auto loans as hundreds of thousands of consumers face mounting bills amid surging new car prices. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 17, 2023
Trump Trials, China and the New McCarthyism [Brian Becker Seminar Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian analyzes the newest indictment against Trump and the ensuing trial, artificial intelligence in the workplace, the new McCarthyism against people and organizations opposing U.S. foreign policy and war, who we should work with in the defense of Julian Assange, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Wed, August 16, 2023
Skyrocketing Rents & Skyrocketing Homelessness: Why Are US Homes for Profit Not for Living In?
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the housing crisis in the United States, where some Gen Zers are spending the majority of their income on housing, and homelessness is increasing — at a record rate. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 10, 2023
New Witch Hunt Demonizes Peace with China, w/ Vijay Prashad & Manolo de los Santos
Seventy-five years ago, a witch hunt was launched in the United States against peace activists and leftists who opposed the growing danger of war with the Soviet Union. Today, as the United States has adopted major power conflict with China as its main military priority, and the danger of military confrontation with China grows, there is a new witch hunt against peace activists. But people are fighting back all around the globe. Brian Becker is joined by Manolo De Los Santos, the co-executive director of The People’s Forum in New York, and Vijay Prashad, the Executive Director of the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research, Chief Editor of LeftWord Books, and a prolific author, most recently publishing a new book with Noam Chomsky called “The Withdrawal: Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, and the Fragility of U.S. Power.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 03, 2023
Trump Indictment, Africa Coups, Teamsters Struggle [Brian Becker Seminar Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian analyzes the January 6 Trump indictment and its effect on the 2024 presidential race and future politics, the dynamics of coups in several African countries, socialists in the 2024 race, the Teamsters' huge win, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Wed, August 02, 2023
"Bidenomics"?? The Real Record of Biden’s Policies for the Working Class
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss "Bidenomics" (which Professor Wolff calls "political theatre"), Biden's real economic record, and why his policies are so harmful. What has "Bidenomics" meant for the working class? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, July 27, 2023
Oppenheimer: The Real Plan for U.S. Nuclear Domination, Then and Now
The blockbuster film “Oppenheimer” shows the lunacy of continued nuclear weapon development as the United States is preparing for war with major nuclear countries. What is the full history of nuclear weapons development and testing in the United States, what was the fallout, and how can the world stop a future nuclear war? Brian Becker is joined by Greg Mello, nuclear weapons expert and co-founder and Executive Director of the Los Alamos Study Group. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 26, 2023
Affirmative Action for Lazy, Bored Rich Kids
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the new study showing that elite schools enroll wealthy students far more than the rest of us. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com, and more about this discussion in his article The World Economy Is Changing—the People Know, But Their Leaders Don’t. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, July 20, 2023
How the Israel Lobby Tried to Tank Jeremy Corbyn: In-Depth Analysis w/ Asa Winstanley
A massive, years-long smear campaign was launched against anti-war, anti-elite Jeremy Corbyn shortly after his election to lead the British Labour Party. The campaign targeted Corbyn and his supporters as being anti-Semitic. What's the truth and what really happened? Walter Smolarek is joined by investigative journalist Asa Winstanley, who writes for the Electronic Intifada and on Substack at asawinstanley.substack.com. He’s also the author of the new book “Weaponising Anti-Semitism: How The Israel Lobby Brought Down Jeremy Corbyn,” which you can buy from OR Books: https://www.orbooks.com/catalog/weaponising-anti-semitism/ Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 19, 2023
Showdown Over AI: SAG-AFTRA Actors Join WGA Writers on Strike
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the historic strike of SAG-AFTRA actors and WGA writers and what's at stake. 160,000 actors are now joining the Writers Guild on strike. They're challenging who gets to decide how to install artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, July 13, 2023
NATO Expands, Again. Will the Ukraine War Spread? w/ Vijay Prashad
NATO leaders met in Lithuania this week, and Finland and Sweden are now joining NATO, continuing the vast expansion of the military alliance. Ukraine was promised a path to NATO membership — despite the risk of further widening the war in Ukraine. Where is the newly emerging world order headed? How will the increasing contradictions resolve? And how can we better understand this historical moment to bring about an end to the scourge of imperialist war? Brian Becker is joined by Vijay Prashad, the Executive Director of the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research, Chief Editor of LeftWord Books, and a prolific author, most recently with Noam Chomsky of “The Withdrawal: Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, and the Fragility of U.S. Power.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 12, 2023
Can U.S. Capitalists Really "Decouple" from China?
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen's trip to China for some of the highest-profile talks yet between the Chinese government and the Biden administration. As a fierce struggle over the future of the world economy plays out, the United States has maintained the Trump-era tariffs and is seeking to diminish China’s role in global trade. Will the two largest world economies “decouple”? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 29, 2023
New Details on Wagner Coup — US Wanted Russia’s Collapse, Why It Failed
In the days after the attempted coup by the Wagner mercenary group in Russia, what do we know? The Western media coverage was generally drooling. Why did Yevgeny Prigozhin start an armed coup attempt against the Russian government? Was the US involved? Brian Becker is joined by Eugene Puryear, author, activist, and co-host of The Freedom Side LIVE, which airs every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern on BreakThrough News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 28, 2023
Imperialism, China, and the World Economy
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the decline of the U.S. world order and economic domination, as BRICS economies overtake those of the G7. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com, and more about this discussion in his article The World Economy Is Changing—the People Know, But Their Leaders Don’t. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, June 27, 2023
The Failed Coup in Russia: Preliminary Assessment [Brian Becker Seminar Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian analyzes the attempted coup in Russia by Yevgeny Prigozhin and his troops from the mercenary Wagner group. Brian discusses who Prigozhin is, why mercenaries are working for Russia, how this happened, how this compares with Trump's efforts to stay in the White House after losing the 2020 election, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Thu, June 22, 2023
Blinken’s Visit and Biden’s True Colors: Imperialist Arrogance Toward China
The United States has made provocation after provocation toward China – and this week, the day after Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s trip to China to reduce U.S.-China tension, U.S. President Biden denigrated Chinese President Xi Jinping, calling him a “dictator” and alleging that he didn’t know what was going on in his own country. Blinken’s trip was supposed to be months ago, but was rescheduled because of another provocation — when the United States shot down a Chinese balloon. Brian Becker is joined by Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University, founding director of the Confucius Institute at New Mexico State University, activist with Pivot to Peace, and author of the new book “China's Revolution and the Quest for a Socialist Future,” which was just released at 1804books.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 21, 2023
Teamsters and the Class Struggle
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss UPS workers voting 97% for a strike for better conditions, better pay, and more full-time work. What does this militant vote among hundreds of thousands of UPS workers mean for the strength of the labor struggle? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 15, 2023
Why Biden Wants Assange in Jail: Case at the Tipping Point
A London High Court judge rejected Wikileaks editor Julian Assange's appeal against his extradition to the United States. He now faces up to 175 years in prison — despite public opinion around the world and in his home country, Australia. The UN has declared his detention “arbitrary,” which usually results in the release of the detainee, but not so far. The fate of the man who revealed so many of the hidden crimes of the US empire hangs in the balance. Brian Becker is joined by Joe Lauria, editor in chief of Consortium News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 14, 2023
Capitalists Wage War on Nature
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the massive wildfires in Canada that blanketed the East Coast in a haze of smoke for days. As the climate crisis intensifies, hazardous conditions are set to become more and more common in every part of the world. But for the capitalists, the only thing that matters is that their employees keep coming in to the job, regardless of the severe health dangers. Without workers working, the capitalists make zero profits. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 08, 2023
Ukraine Dam Bombing: Information War and Endless Escalation
The destruction of a major dam in southern Ukraine has caused devastating flooding as a highly-anticipated Ukrainian military offensive gets underway. U.S. officials immediately declared that Russia was responsible but where’s the evidence and does that have any military logic? Brian Becker is joined by Walter Smolarek, editor of Liberation News. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at https://patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 07, 2023
Recession is Business as Usual Under Capitalism
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how economists around the world are agonizing over the question – Will the United States enter a recession, and how bad will it be? New economic data shows that the job market remains relatively strong, but under the twisted logic of capitalism this may in fact lead the Federal Reserve to implement policies that could make an economic downturn more explosive. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 01, 2023
A Nuclear Ticking Time Bomb [Brian Becker Seminar Preview]
In this patrons-only Q&A seminar, Brian discusses the buildup of nuclear waste, librarians facing prison time, divisions in the ruling class, the possibilities in the Ukraine War, perspectives on China, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Wed, May 31, 2023
Biden & Republicans Unite Against the Poor and the Environment
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how Joe Biden and Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy have unveiled a “debt ceiling” agreement involving major attacks on workers and the environment. The two are now racing to push through Congress a deal that would see stepped up production of fossil fuels, cuts to food stamps, and the rollback of vital services – all while making it easier for the rich to evade taxes and exempting the Pentagon from any spending limits. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 25, 2023
China’s Return: the Quest for a Socialist Future and the US’s Huge Miscalculation
Before it was colonized and divided, China was once the most powerful economy in the world. Today it is re-emerging as a leading force, under “socialism with Chinese characteristics.” What paths has China taken since the 1949 revolution and is the country still headed to socialism? Brian Becker is joined by Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University, founding director of the Confucius Institute at New Mexico State University, activist with Pivot to Peace, and author of the new book “China's Revolution and the Quest for a Socialist Future,” which was just released at 1804books.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 24, 2023
U.S. Microchip Trade War on China: All About Corporate Profits, Not Workers
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the consequences of the most recent step up in the U.S. microchip trade war against China. In response to major U.S. sanctions against China's microchip industry, China began restricting American manufacturer Micron this week. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 18, 2023
How Colonialism Created Israel w/ Prof. Nazia Kazi
In a historic event, on Monday the United Nations commemorated al-Nakba, which means “catastrophe,” and marked the beginning of the apartheid state of Israel and the massacre and displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from their homes. Despite what Americans are taught, Israel was not created as a safe haven from oppression — in fact, the origin of Israel has anti-Arab, anti-Semitic, and imperialist roots. Brian is joined by Dr. Nazia Kazi, a professor of Anthropology at Stockton University, and author of the book “Islamophobia, Race, and Global Politics,” which was just updated and re-released. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 17, 2023
Writers strike challenges corporate greed in Hollywood
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how the Writers Guild of America is taking on the Hollywood bosses in a strike that is now entering its third week. Writers are fed up with producers making their work more uncertain, intense, and lower-paying. And the strike touches on an issue of existential concern to all workers – artificial intelligence. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 11, 2023
How South Korea Enslaved Women for U.S. Troops for Years
The U.S. and South Korean government have hidden the sex slave system for U.S. troops, called camp towns, that began after World War II as a continuation of the Japanese-run sex slave system in Korea, the so-called ‘comfort women.’ Now the story is finally getting more light—as a way for the United States to push for war. Brian is joined by K.J. Noh, a peace activist, organizer with Pivot to Peace, scholar on the geopolitics of Asia, and a frequent contributor to Counterpunch and Dissident Voice. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 03, 2023
First Republic Bank Rescue & Secret Collusion Between the Government and Wall Street's Biggest Banks
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the third bank failure in two months. First Republic collapsed Monday, a sure sign that the financial system is still in huge turmoil. Then JPMorgan Chase bought the bank's assets for a bargain. What does this say about the economic system and what does it mean for the rest of us? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, May 02, 2023
Capitalist War Against Workers [Preview]
In this patrons-only seminar, Brian discusses the current importance of International Workers' Day, how to build unity among different workers, millions ejected from health care in the US, how to stop the march toward war on China, the attacks on the African People’s Socialist Party, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Thu, April 27, 2023
U.S. Plays Nuclear Chicken in Korea, Ukraine, Taiwan — What’s the Endgame?
A new era of global politics is rapidly developing. The United States just announced plans to dock nuclear submarines in South Korea. Ukrainian President Zelensky speaks with Chinese President Xi. Former self-declared “Venezuelan President” Juan Guaido sneaks back to Miami. BRICS has 19 new requests to join. What do these developments and others indicate about the changing world, economy, and struggle for freedom around the globe? Brian is joined by Ben Norton, an investigative journalist based in Latin America, and editor of the independent news website Geopolitical Economy Report, which you can find at geopoliticaleconomy.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 26, 2023
Free Market or State Intervention? A Debate Inside the Right
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the split within the right wing, where some uber-conservatives, like the Heritage Foundation, have come out in support of government subsidies and state intervention — not the so-called free market. What has caused this huge shift and what does it mean for the left? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, April 20, 2023
Leaked Pentagon Docs Show US Elites Want Never-Ending Ukraine War
Secret documents appear to reveal the internal assessments of Pentagon officials regarding the war in Ukraine, the extensive US direction of the proxy war, and how even its close allies are not safe from U.S. spying. Brian is joined by Walter Smolarek, editor of Liberation News and producer of this show, to help explain and dissect what’s going on in Ukraine, the destruction of the Nordstream pipeline, and recent inflammatory coverage of China. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 19, 2023
How Much Was the Bank Bailout...and How Is It Getting Covered Up?
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the recent New York Times research on the bank bailout, stating that the regional banks massive sections of the country depend on were on the verge of collapse. Is this study real or a propaganda piece to cover up that the government spent billions on banks' mistakes? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, April 13, 2023
Hidden History: When Communism and Feminism Came Together in China, 1949
Women leaders from all over the Global South came together in China in 1949 to strategize about building an anti-imperialist, anti-colonial women’s movement at The Revolutionary Feminist Conference. The conference worked to overcome the fact that imperialists and colonialists were sharing materials, ideas, and plans among themselves, while working to prevent the people’s movements leaders from communicating. While the event has long been little known, historian Dr. Lisa Armstrong spent years tracking down documentation and talking to attendees all over the world. Here’s what she found. Brian is joined by Prof. Armstrong, a professor and department chair of the study of women and gender at Smith College and an author, most recently of the book “Bury the Corpse of Colonialism: The Revolutionary Feminist Conference of 1949,” which you can find here: https://www.ucpress.edu/book/9780520390911/bury-the-corpse-of-colonialism. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 12, 2023
Dollar Imperialism and Its Decline
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how economic powerhouses like China, Russia, Brazil and others are moving away from using the dollar, changing its status as the world’s reserve currency. This shift could erode the power that U.S. banks and corporations have relied on for decades. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com.
Thu, April 06, 2023
The Politics of the Trump Indictment
On today's episode Nicole Roussell interviews Brian Becker about the indictment of Donald Trump, the leader of Taiwan meeting with Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, the ever expanding story about who destroyed Nordstream 2, and the win for abortion rights in Wisconsin. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 05, 2023
Why France Is In the Streets
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the three months of protests and 11 days of strikes in France against President Macron's attempt to roll back residents' full rights to retirement pensions. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 30, 2023
The New Stage of the U.S. Military-Industrial Complex
In this patrons-only seminar, Brian discusses the media's take that the U.S. industrial base is inadequate to feed the war machine, Israel's hidden history of nuclear weapons, the best way to study the lessons of history, the varied roles that nonprofits play in people's struggles, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Thu, March 23, 2023
Israeli General’s Son: Myths and Facts of an Apartheid System
As Israel’s racist, right-wing government has careened even further right, Israelis have been protesting in the streets “for democracy.” But in Palestine, Israeli forces have killed a shocking number of people this year as their war ramps up. What is driving the conflict ground right now and where is this apartheid system headed next? Brian is joined by Miko Peled, a human rights activist, host of The Miko Peled Podcast, and author of “The General’s Son - A Journey of an Israeli in Palestine” and "Injustice: The Story of the Holy Land Foundation Five.” You can find his podcast, books, and much more at mikopeled.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, March 22, 2023
What's Causing the Bank Collapse?
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff break down what's going on with the collapse of several banks, including how to understand the intentionally complicated economic jargon and why it's vital that we do. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 16, 2023
Wuhan Lab Leak Hoax and the Coming Conflict with China
How did an Energy Department report about COVID coming from a lab leak, an assertion made with “low confidence,” take the whole media by storm? Why is this allegation being dredged up again? While viral outbreaks can take decades to uncover and sometimes don’t ever become clear, the political framing is already obvious. Brian is joined by K.J. Noh, a peace activist, organizer with Pivot to Peace, scholar on the geopolitics of Asia, and a frequent contributor to Counterpunch and Dissident Voice. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, March 15, 2023
Collapsing Banks & A Weakening U.S. Empire
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, among others, that has caused widespread panic. The federal government has bailed out these banks, which will make hard-felt U.S. inflation even worse. Are we headed for another economic crisis? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 09, 2023
All the Lies That Are Fit to Print: The Media & the Ukraine War
The U.S. mainstream media is acting as a propaganda machine for the U.S. drive to keep the Ukraine war going — while Ukrainians and Russians fight and die — and weaken Russia. Brian is joined by Walter Smolarek, editor of Liberation News and producer of this show, to help explain and dissect what’s going on in Ukraine, with the Nordstream pipeline, and with related coverage of China. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian. Rania Khalek’s interview with Seymour Hersh on his Nordstream pipeline story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blDRGHGXn0U
Wed, March 08, 2023
Nationalize the Railroads!
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the deadly greed of capitalists in the transportation industry, in light of the horrific train disaster in East Palestine, Ohio. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, March 07, 2023
The People of the World Stand With Cuba Against the U.S. Blockade
The United States tries to keep people in the dark about the blockade against Cuba and the many accomplishments of the Cuban Revolution. This is part of the U.S. campaign to overturn the socialist government in Cuba that has successfully led its people through more than 60 years of attacks, attempted coups, sanctions, trade embargoes, and the Covid pandemic. Brian is joined by Gloria La Riva, the coordinator of the Cuba and Venezuela Solidarity Committee and a longtime leader of brigades to Cuba to learn and expose people in the United States to the realities on the ground, and Aminah Sheikh, who is a labor and community organizer active in the Canadian peace movement. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 02, 2023
Why You Should Read the Communist Manifesto, #2 Most Popular Book of All Time
The Communist Manifesto was a short but world-changing text that, despite being written in 1848, is a vital read for anyone who wants a better and more equal society. Brian Becker discusses the importance of the book, the historical context, and what it brought to the world. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, March 01, 2023
Ukraine War Turns 1: A $100 Billion Giveaway to the Arms Industry
On today's episode John Prysner and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how one year into the war in Ukraine, the U.S. government has committed $100 billion dollars to this bloody proxy conflict that is threatening the whole world with catastrophe. But while huge numbers of people suffer and die, some capitalists are focused on getting their share of this enormous sum of money. Who profits from war? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, February 28, 2023
Unlearned Lessons: Iraq War 20 Years Later [Preview]
In this patrons-only seminar, Brian discusses the unlearned lessons from the 20 years since the U.S.'s "shock and awe" invasion in Iraq and the mass demonstration in Washington DC on March 18, the impact of anti-communism legislation and education, the Democrats' anti-immigrant policies, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Thu, February 23, 2023
365 Days of Ukraine War: US Doubles Down, While Global South Realigns
As the war in Ukraine hits one year, Biden visits Zelensky in Kiev, Putin gives an uncompromising state of the nation speech, and the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs makes a fiery statement against the US Empire, the likes of which haven’t been seen in decades. Brian is joined by Walter Smolarek, editor of Liberation News and producer of this show, to sort through the tea leaves on where the war in Ukraine may be headed. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 22, 2023
Bosses Want More Child Labor
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the decline of numbers of workers post-Covid and the capitalists' solution...the increasing use of child labor. Some states are even rolling back legal protections for children. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 15, 2023
Billionaires Win the Super Bowl, Again!
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss why the Super Bowl happens, what else the owners of the Kansas City football team own, and what it shows about U.S. capitalism that the trophy is presented to the billionaire team owner after the team bleeds, sweats, and often receives or worsens injuries. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, February 14, 2023
3 Days, 3 Objects Shot Down by US: What's Being Reported & What's Missing [Preview]
In this patrons-only seminar, Brian discusses the unidentified objects that the United States keeps shooting down, Seymour Hersch's new claims that the US bombed the Nordstream pipeline, the effect of sanctions on Syria as the country attempts to recover from natural disaster, how to build a wide and effective anti-war coalition, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Thu, February 09, 2023
The War Drive Against China Keeps Ballooning
Biden’s administration used an Air Force F-22 Raptor jet fighter and Raytheon’s Sidewinder missile, to shoot down a meandering Chinese balloon on Saturday. Republicans in Congress called the balloon a “show of force,” and Biden canceled Secretary of State Blinken’s trip to China. Brian is joined by Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University, founding director of the Confucius Institute at New Mexico State University, and leading organizer with Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 08, 2023
Strikes sweep France, UK: Lessons for the fight against Wall Street
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how millions of workers across France and the UK have gone on strike in recent days and weeks to protest a raft of anti-worker measures, including efforts to roll back the right to strike and the right to retire with dignity. What can we learn from these episodes in the class struggle as Wall Street prepares similar attacks here in the United States? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, February 02, 2023
Brian Becker at People's Tribunal: "End the Scourge of Capitalism and Imperialism!"
Today's episode is a recording of Brian Becker's speech during the launch of the International People’s Tribunal on U.S. Imperialism: Sanctions, Blockades, and Economic Coercive Measures. This event was held at The People's Forum in New York City on January 28, and featured a wide range of anti-war leaders and experts on international law. Brian discusses the urgent need to build the anti-war movement, and the importance of rejecting the demonization of targeted countries and putting the fight against sanctions at the forefront. Brian makes the case that U.S. empire is rooted in the insatiable search of capitalists for profits. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 01, 2023
Recession, inequality and capitalism: A "soft landing" for who?
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the state of the U.S. economy. With the Federal Reserve poised to slow down its rate hikes at least temporarily, is it true that the economy is headed for a so-called soft landing? How healthy or sick is US capitalism? Are mainstream economists missing the big picture? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, January 31, 2023
The Most Dangerous Turn Yet in the Ukraine War [Preview]
In this patrons-only seminar, Brian discusses the most dangerous part of the war in Ukraine that we're now entering, including the current political moment that we're situated in and what we can do to change it. He also talks about what happens if the U.S. defaults on its financial commitments, multiracial or multinational liberation in the US as it pertains to the struggle against police terror, automation of jobs, and more. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar for Patrons in the TSP community. Subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, register for next time, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Wed, January 25, 2023
The "debt ceiling" and the war on social programs
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the so-called “debt ceiling” government borrowing limit. As the countdown begins to a default, right wing politicians are using the situation as leverage and demanding huge cuts to some of the most essential social programs, including Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Will these crucial safety net programs survive? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, January 19, 2023
Biggest Fraud in History? Pentagon Can’t Locate Over Half Its Assets w/ Lee Camp
The Pentagon has “lost track” of more than half of its assets, based on its fifth failed audit in a row. The Pentagon’s assets include troops, weapons, battleships, submarines, buildings, and more, costing trillions of dollars – yet over half are unaccounted for? How does the single biggest and costliest agency get away with this while Congress dismisses free college, improved Medicare and Medicaid, helping low-income families with costs of childcare, and other basic necessities? Brian is joined by Lee Camp, comedian, journalist, and former host of the TV show "Redacted Tonight." Now he hosts "The Most Censored News" for MintPress and you can check out his podcast "The Lee Camp Show" on Spotify. All of his work is available at LeeCamp.net. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, January 18, 2023
How to Become a Billionaire
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss widening global inequality in light of the Oxfam report showing that two-thirds of all wealth created around the world since 2020 has gone to the richest 1%. They also dissect what makes the rich different from the rest of us. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, January 17, 2023
U.S. Game Plan for South Korea
Even a film screening of a North Korean family drama is getting South Korean organizers in trouble under the administration of right-wing President Yoon, as he takes the country back toward the oppressive regime of the 1980s when reading certain books could result in jail time. Brian is joined by K.J. Noh, a peace activist, organizer with Pivot to Peace, scholar on the geopolitics of Asia, and a frequent contributor to Counterpunch and Dissident Voice. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, January 12, 2023
How the CIA Politically Manipulates Islam for the US War Agenda
The U.S. government has funded, written books for, and otherwise supported the development of right-wing Islam extremism to support U.S. imperialist goals. Then they turn around and stoke Islamophobia to justify their war agenda. Brian is joined by Dr. Nazia Kazi, she is an activist and professor of Anthropology at Stockton University, and author of the article “9/11 Attacks: Why Young Americans Know Nothing About the ‘War on Terror’” and the book “Islamophobia, Race, and Global Politics.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, January 11, 2023
7,000 Nurses Say 'Enough!' & Strike: What's Causing the Healthcare Crisis?
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the strike that 7,000 nurses are on in New York. What's behind this huge strike and the increasing wave of strikes? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, January 10, 2023
$10 Trillion for Nuclear War: Racing to the Nuclear Cliff
The United States is adding even more money and capacity into its cache of nuclear weapons, the detonation of which would mean tens of millions of people dying. What's behind the estimated $10 trillion in spending on a product that the government will hopefully never use? Brian is joined by Greg Mello, co-founder and Executive Director of the Los Alamos Study Group. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, January 05, 2023
How the U.S.’s Taiwan Policy Makes War with China a Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
A growing chorus of U.S. elites are calling for the U.S. government to prepare for war with China. The strategy hinges on coercing Taiwan into the middle of the “major power conflict” with mainland China. Brian is joined by Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University, founding director of the Confucius Institute at New Mexico State University, and leading organizer with Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, January 04, 2023
The Big Backfire: Oil Sanctions on Russia
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the unintended global effects of U.S. sanctions on Russia. How are they reshaping the global market for oil and other energy? How are other countries responding around the world to shifting power? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, January 03, 2023
Ukraine War Causes Massive Shifts in Global Economy
Brian takes a look at some of the key global issues dominating politics as 2023 begins. In this preview, he discusses the huge shifts taking place in the world's oil markets as a consequence of the war in Ukraine and the price cap imposed on Russian exports. At other points, the seminar discussed the latest military developments in Ukraine, COVID-19 response in China, and the long-term evolution of capitalism and its world system since the 1970s. This episode is a preview of a longer seminar conducted by Brian and others on The Socialist Program team for members of our Patreon community. To receive the link to register for the monthly seminars, subscribe to our Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram
Thu, December 29, 2022
The Biggest Stories in 2022 - Where Things are Headed!
Brian conducts an end of the year review of the biggest stories including the U.S. proxy war with Russia in Ukraine, the growing confrontation with China and North Korea and the intensifying assault against democratic rights inside the United States. He also talks about the development of a new antiwar movement inside the United States. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, December 15, 2022
The Big Business of War & Ukraine’s Neocolonial Future w/ Ben Norton
As the U.S. government plans to send its most advanced surface-to-air missile system to Ukraine. Meanwhile, the masses of people in Ukraine and the rest of Europe are falling further into poverty as conditions worsen and prices rise. Rather than promoting peace and advocating for negotiations, the United States, European Union, and NATO are publicly discussing escalating the war, while the IMF, World Bank, and corporate interests speculate on how much profit they can make in the future rebuilding of Ukraine, having moved the country decisively away from Russia and into the Western fold. Brian is joined by Ben Norton, an investigative journalist based in Latin America, and editor of the independent news website Multipolarista, at multipolarista.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, December 13, 2022
Ultra Right Aims to Usher Agenda Through the Back Door [Brian Becker Seminar #22 - Preview]
In this patrons-only seminar, Brian discusses the attempted power grab by the extreme right in the United States through the Moore v. Harper case, for which oral arguments were heard at the Supreme Court on December 9. He also answers questions on the anti-democratic Congressional ruling against letting railway workers strike, using lawfare for quiet coups, how to form a united front, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Tue, December 06, 2022
Iran Protests: Myths and Facts
The major media disinformation campaign about the Iran protests is making it nearly impossible for people in the United States to understand what's going on in Iran. What's true? What's half true? What's completely and totally false? Brian is joined by Mazda Majidi, an author, journalist and educator who just got back from Iran. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, December 01, 2022
CHINA PROTESTS & COVID - MYTHS AND FACTS
The US mainstream media is twisting and distorting news about the recent Covid-related protests in China. This important interview with Tings Chak, a Beijing-based researcher at the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research, a member of Dongsheng News collective, and the author of the pamphlet 'Serve the People – The Eradication of Extreme Poverty in China', explains the realities of the protests, the US media, and what’s really going on with Covid in China. 'Serve the People – The Eradication of extreme poverty in China': https://thetricontinental.org/studies-1-socialist-construction/ Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, November 29, 2022
In the News: Julian Assange, Ukraine War [Brian Becker Seminar #21 - Preview]
In this patrons-only seminar, Brian discusses the importance of five major international papers coming out against the ongoing prosecution of Julian Assange, where the U.S. proxy war in Ukraine is headed, how we can talk about these tough issues with friends and strangers, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest of this seminar, support the show, and access the highly valuable archive of years of socialist analysis.
Wed, November 23, 2022
Cryptocurrency Collapse: Money, Scams and Capitalism
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how FTX, which was among the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in the world, has collapsed in one of the most spectacular corporate bankruptcies ever. In other tech-related industries too, mass layoffs continue to gather pace. The boom-bust cycle of capitalism is once again on full display. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, November 22, 2022
"Fighting for Peace as US Seeks Major Power Conflict:" Brian Becker's Speech on Nov. 19
This weekend, Brian spoke at the "The Real Path to Peace in Ukraine" event in NYC, which inaugurated a new, multi-national, grassroots movement to advocate for the end to the current war in Ukraine. He spoke about the need for negotiations in Ukraine over escalation. To see the whole program, including Former Green Party Presidential Nominee Jill Stein, Tricontinental Institute for Social Research Director Vijay Prashad, BreakThrough News Host Eugene Puryear, The People's Forum Co-Director Claudia de la Cruz, and CODEPINK Founder Medea Benjamin, watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asndac1ETFk. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, November 17, 2022
Trump’s 2024 Announcement Speech Debunked — His Real Record Against Workers
Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that he’s running for president again, despite only delivering a “red trickle” in the midterm elections and losing the presidency by seven million votes in 2020. What was his real record in office? Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, an author, activist, and co-host with Rania Khalek of The Freedom Side LIVE, a live video show every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET on BreakThrough. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, November 16, 2022
Billionaires Order Mass Layoffs of Tech Workers
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the mass layoffs that billionaire CEOs at Meta (formerly Facebook), Twitter, Amazon, and others have begun. More than one hundred thousand workers are projected to lose their jobs this year just in the tech industry. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, November 15, 2022
The Republican Red Wave Became a Trickle, Ukraine, China & Cuba [Brian Becker Seminar #20 - Preview]
In this patrons-only seminar, Brian discusses why the widely predicted Republican red wave became a trickle and what it means for organizing and answers questions about the anti-war movement, the Ukraine war, China's relationship with Cuba, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, November 10, 2022
Voter Suppression Behind Georgia’s Run-Off: GOP Blocked 149,000 Mail-In Ballots w/ Greg Palast
Brian is joined by investigative reporter Greg Palast, who wrote the film “Vigilantes: Georgia’s Vote Suppression Hitmen,” available at gregpalast.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, November 09, 2022
Housing Market Whiplash Locks out Millions of Workers
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how huge numbers of people are being locked out of the housing market amid soaring interest rates and home prices, marking a dramatic reversal for millions of people who were hoping to buy their own home. With prices spiking for renters as well, the failure of the capitalist market to provide something as basic as affordable shelter is on display. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, November 08, 2022
From Poll Taxes to Election Police: Racist Voter Suppression in America
The poll tax was eliminated within this lifetime, in 1966, but the right-wing in America has been hard at work reconstructing it with ID requirements, stripping people with convictions of the right to vote, and even arresting people for voting. It's Election Day today and many people are heading to the polls in what may be a significant election. What are the most important elements for socialists to know about? Brian is joined by Esther Iverem, journalist, producer and host of the show ‘On the Ground: Voices of Resistance From the Nation’s Capital,’ which comes out weekly on Fridays. Check it out at onthegroundshow.org and two dozen Pacifica stations nationwide. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Fri, November 04, 2022
Supreme Court Plots to End ‘One Person, One Vote’ & the Hidden Hand of Big Oil
The right-wing loves yelling, “We’re a republic, not a democracy!” Now they have a Supreme Court that agrees with them. The Court is about to hear Moore v. Harper, a gerrymandering case that will also take up the Electors Clause of the Constitution. The Republican legal argument, made famous by Trump’s 2020 legal team, is that state legislatures can send their own choice of electors to the Electoral College, rather than abiding by the vote of the people. The implications of this are huge — the end of ‘one person, one vote.’ Brian is joined by Steven Donziger, an advocate, writer and public speaker on human rights and corporate accountability. His most recent piece is The most terrifying case of all is about to be heard by the US Supreme Court. He also filed a class-action lawsuit with others against Chevron for environmental damage – including dumping 17 million gallons of crude oil in the Ecuadorian rainforest – and won a historic $9.5 billion judgment. Chevon then fled Ecuador and launched a campaign against Donziger that resulted in him being disbarred, serving 45 days behind bars, and under home confinement for 993 days. For more on his story, watch his interview on The Freedom Side and Rania Khalek Dispatches here on BreakThrough. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, November 02, 2022
The Reign of King Elon Musk Begins at Twitter
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how Elon Musk became the new owner of Twitter. The widely-hated billionaire immediately began to prepare layoffs, reportedly starting with the mass firing of a quarter of all employees at the company. Under the dictatorship of the rich, one of the main ways that people in society communicate with each other can become the private possession of a single ultra-wealthy capitalist. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, November 01, 2022
Lula Wins, Musk Takes Twitter, US Sends Nukes to Europe [Brian Becker Seminar #19 - Preview]
In this patrons-only seminar, Brian discusses the win of left Workers Party candidate & former president Luiz Inácio ‘Lula’ da Silva over far-right President Jair Bolsonaro and the huge impact it will have in Brazil and in the region, Elon Musk ordering massive job cuts as he takes over Twitter, the US sending nuclear weapons to Europe, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, October 27, 2022
Huge Protests in Korea As War Danger Grows
Massive protests in South Korea are demanding the end of right-wing President Yoon Suk-yeol's tenure. At the same time, the US and Japan are promising a major military escalation against North Korea. Brian is joined by K.J. Noh, a peace activist, organizer with Pivot to Peace, scholar on the geopolitics of Asia, and a frequent contributor to Counterpunch and Dissident Voice. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 26, 2022
U.S. steps up high-tech economic war with China
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how demonization of China has gone into overdrive as the country chooses its new leadership, and how a key component of this has been increasingly strident advocacy for so-called “economic decoupling” from China. And in fact, just ahead of China’s Communist Party congress, the U.S. government unveiled a harsh blow to a critical sector of trade. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, October 25, 2022
Rent Hikes, Inflation, Mass Evictions: The Coming Rent Revolution
As rents spike higher and higher, tent cities grow across the country, and eviction protections wear out, tenants are fed up and organizing. Nicole and Brian discuss the coming — and necessary — rent revolution. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, October 20, 2022
Xi Elevates China’s Socialist Goals, Prepares Country for Global ‘Storms’
The Communist Party of China is in its 20th Congress, a week-long meeting of 2,296 elected delegates from around the country in a nominations and voting process in which 95 million CPC members participated. The delegates set the priorities for China for the next five years. Brian and Tings Chak, researcher at the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research & a member of Dongsheng News collective, discuss the biggest takeaways, China’s economy, Xi Jinping’s presidency, Biden’s recent singling out of China in his National Security Doctrine, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, October 18, 2022
Socialism in the US Can Happen, and Here's What It Can Look Like
What would socialism look like in the United States—the richest country ever known yet 38 million people are hungry? Socialism would use that wealth and our development for the needs of the people, stop endless wars, and crush racism, sexism, and all forms of bigotry. A new book, "Socialist Reconstruction: A Better Future for the United States," demonstrates what this could look like in detail, starting in “the first decade of socialism in the United States." Brian is joined by Dr. Jodi Dean, Professor of Political Science at Hobart and William Smith Colleges & author of several books. She and Brian were part of the collective effort to produce the just-released book “Socialist Reconstruction: A Better Future for the United States." Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian. Get the book here: https://www.liberationstore.org/products/socialist-reconstruction-a-better-future-for-the-united-states
Thu, October 13, 2022
Crimea Attack, Pipeline Sabotage, Kiev Bombing, Endless NATO Weapons: Ukraine War Widens
Russia has been hit by multiple major attacks, including sabotage in their Nordstream energy pipelines and the explosion on the Crimean Bridge. The bridge is a vital supply route to and from the peninsula with military supplies. Russia responded with missiles hitting Kiev. As NATO and Europe send further weapons and technology, the war is quickly escalating. Where is it going? Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, the host of the BreakThrough News podcast The Punch Out and co-host of the BT live video show The Freedom Side, which you can watch on the BreakThrough News YouTube channel, Thursdays 3–5pm ET. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 12, 2022
Bankers & The Fed Push the Economy Toward a Recession—But It's Workers Who Will Feel the Pain
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the International Monetary Fund predicting a worse economy in 2023 and the illuminating comments from CEO Jamie Dimon of JP Morgan Chase, the largest US investment bank. Bankers like Dimon and The Fed (made up of majority bankers) are pushing the economy toward the brink, despite the crisis this will cause for workers and families nationwide. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com.
Tue, October 11, 2022
Ukraine War Gets Bigger: Russian Missile Strikes in Retaliation for Terrorist Attacks
Russia hit Kyiv with missile strikes yesterday, in response to the attack that damaged the bridge to Crimea. The war in Ukraine is escalating—and the United States is cheering. Esther Iverem talks with Brian about the accelerating state of the war. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, October 06, 2022
251 Interventions in 30 Years: A System Addicted to War w/ Ben Norton
The United States has acknowledged almost 500 military interventions, listed in detail in a report by congressional researchers. More than 200 were just in the last 31 years, since the fall of the Soviet Union, representing a significant increase over the hundreds of years prior. What does this explain about the nature of capitalism, war, and imperialism? Brian is joined by Ben Norton, an investigative journalist based in Latin America, and editor of the independent news website Multipolarista, which you can find at multipolarista.com. Ben’s article that Ben and Brian discuss is here on his website: https://multipolarista.com/2022/09/13/us-251-military-interventions-1991. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 05, 2022
Hurricane Ian exposes inhumanity of U.S. capitalism's disaster response
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how Hurricane Ian has caused historic devastation throughout Florida, leaving over 100 dead and destroying homes and critical infrastructure. All of the extreme inequalities of the capitalist system are on display in the wake of this massive disaster. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, October 04, 2022
Brazil Elections, Nordstream Explosion, and More [Brian Becker Seminar #18 - Preview]
In this patrons-only seminar, Brian analyzes Secretary of State Blinken's gloating about the Nordstream pipeline explosion and what this tells us, what is needed for a big anti-war mobilization, and how to effectively provide mutual aid. He also talks about Brazil's presidential election, with popular left candidate Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva winning in the first round but headed to a runoff against far-right Jair Bolsonaro, and the U.S. government's view on it, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, September 29, 2022
The China-Russia Alliance: Will It Endure? Will It Grow?
Two of the biggest world powers, Russia and China, have formed an alliance based on common interest, despite a very complex history. Seven months into the Russian military intervention in Ukraine, what is the state of the relationship? Brian is joined by Marco Fernandes, researcher with Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research, member of Dongsheng News collective & organizer with the No Cold War campaign. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 28, 2022
Fed's Interest Rate Campaign Sends Shockwaves Through Global Economy
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how the Federal Reserve’s relentless campaign to raise interest rates is having profound consequences not just in the United States, but around the world. As rates rise in the United States, the value of other currencies is plummeting, intensifying inflation and a whole host of other economic and social issues. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, September 27, 2022
Behind the Scenes: How the Right Wing Is Quietly Planning to Seize Election Infrastructure
The far right is on the move, installing themselves in key places throughout the election infrastructure of the country. States are considering further attacks, like eliminating early voting, after Republicans have spent decades filling the state legislatures. These attacks are racist, undemocratic, and coming to a head this November. Brian is joined by Esther Iverem, a longtime journalist, producer and host of the show ‘On the Ground: Voices of Resistance From the Nation’s Capital,’ which comes out weekly on Fridays. Check it out at onthegroundshow.org and two dozen Pacifica stations nationwide. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, September 22, 2022
Ukraine War Escalates—And Nuclear War Threats Grow
The Ukraine war is escalating—dramatically. Russian President Putin & U.S. President Biden both made major and dramatic speeches in the last day, after a successful and U.S.-backed Ukrainian counter-offensive earlier in the week. What did Putin and Biden reveal in their addresses and where is this headed? Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, the host of the BreakThrough News podcast The Punch Out, co-host of the BT live video show The Freedom Side, and a writer, including the article “Should we really blame NATO for the Ukraine war?”: https://www.liberationnews.org/should-we-really-blame-nato-for-the-ukraine-war/ Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 21, 2022
Inflation Crisis & the March Towards Recession
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how fears of an all-out economic crisis are deepening as FedEx announces that it expects a global recession based on a sharp decline in world shipping activity, and a higher-than expected inflation report deepens the federal reserve’s determination to raise interest rates. The capitalist class remains determined to drive the economy off a cliff to eviscerate workers’ living standards and bargaining power. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, September 20, 2022
How the Ultra-Right Intends to Take & Consolidate Political Power
The assault on our democratic rights within the United States is growing. The right wing of the U.S. ruling class, using the Supreme Court and other undemocratic institutions, has begun eviscerating hard-fought economic, social, and political rights that have been achieved in past decades. This will be an epic struggle. Producer Nicole Roussell and Brian discuss how we got here and what's next. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, September 15, 2022
Vijay Prashad and Noam Chomsky on Afghanistan War & the Fragility of US Empire
The U.S. government has destroyed cities, countries, and towns around the world, through bombs and air raids, military ground invasions, naval attacks, economic sanctions and strangulation, coups, and more. Some say U.S. force is never ending, others say it’s on a fast decline, almost gone forever. Vijay Prashad and Noam Chomsky argue in their new book, “The Withdrawal: Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, and the Fragility of U.S. Power,” that U.S. military might is somewhere in the middle: it’s fragile. Brian is joined by Vijay Prashad, the Executive Director of the Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research, Chief Editor of LeftWord Books, and author of a new book with Noam Chomsky called “The Withdrawal: Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, and the Fragility of U.S. Power.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 14, 2022
Queens, Kings and Capitalism
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how the corporate-owned media has been consumed with wall-to-wall coverage of the death of the Queen, fawning over the British monarchy. But the lifestyle that’s being celebrated is one based on plunder and empire. While their “subjects” live in poverty, the royals live a life of total luxury – all because they were lucky enough to be born into the right family. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, September 13, 2022
The Deepening Assault on Core Democratic Rights in the USA
The United States is in the midst of a political upheaval right now, after the 2020 uprising, the Jan. 6 storming of the Capitol, and the Dobbs decision that overturned one of the Supreme Court's biggest decisions -- access to abortion under Roe v. Wade. The right wing is on the move and the left needs a clear understanding of just where they're headed and how to be able to effectively fight back. What does Dobbs indicate for other democratic rights that we thought were guaranteed? Producer Nicole Roussell and Brian discuss the very significant political changes in the domestic policy situation in the United States, and the Attica prison uprising and massacre 51 years ago today. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, September 08, 2022
Global Confrontation: The US, Russia, China, and a New Era
The United States and South Korea put on the biggest military war games in four years, while Russia and China also ran military drills. Will the world become multipolar and is that enough to fully counter U.S. imperialism? Is major power conflict on the horizon? Producer Nicole Roussell and Brian discuss what multipolarity means for the international working class, what is needed to end U.S. imperialism, and what geopolitics are evident in Ukraine. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 07, 2022
Sanctions Backfire: Europe Plunged into Energy Crisis
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how Europe has plunged into an even deeper energy crisis as Russia cuts off imports through the Nord Stream pipeline in response to western sanctions. While US and European leaders pledged that sanctions would quickly bring the Russian economy to its knees, is the reality in fact the opposite? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, September 01, 2022
Brian Becker Seminar #17: Gorbachev's Legacy, Afghanistan, Droughts, Education, & More [Preview]
In this August 2022 patrons-only seminar, Brian discusses the legacy of Mikhail Gorbachev, the last president of the Soviet Union before its dissolution, who is being lionized by the capitalist media after his death on Tuesday. Brian also discusses the 1-year anniversary of the U.S. withdrawal of from Afghanistan, the drying up of the Colorado River due to climate change, education under capitalism versus socialism, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, August 25, 2022
Infiltration, Violence, Deportation: How the State Weakened and Split Socialism in the US
In this special crossover episode, Rania Khalek of Dispatches sits down with Brian to talk about the impact of severe repression on the socialist, communist and Black Liberation movement in the United States during the past decades. Rania Khalek’s Dispatches program is on BreakThrough News, and is available on video at YouTube.com/BreakThroughNews and as a podcast on Google, Apple, and anywhere you get your podcasts. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian. This month it's on Wednesday, August 31, at 12pm ET/9am PT. Register now on Patreon!
Wed, August 24, 2022
How U.S. Capitalism Buries Students in Debt
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the student debt crisis. With an announcement expected imminently on the fate of the national freeze on student debt payments, pressure is mounting on the Biden administration to not only extend the moratorium, but also cancel a substantial amount of the crushing debt burden tens of millions of people in the United States are under. How did we end up in a situation where borrowers have accumulated over $1.7 trillion in debt just because they wanted to get an education? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, August 23, 2022
Social & Economic Crisis in Turkey w/ TKP Secretary General
A political, social, economy, and class struggle has been intensifying in Turkey. What are the demands of the people and the progressive forces like the TKP, the Communist Party of Turkey? Brian is joined by Kemal Okuyan, who is the secretary general of the Communist Party of Turkey (TKP), for an inside look. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 18, 2022
China’s Rise: Why U.S. Threats & Provocations Will Not Succeed
A second congressional delegation went to Taiwan this week, less than two weeks after Pelosi visited. These trips have sparked a sense of outrage among many Chinese people, who demand respect for their sovereignty and for their impressive social and economic achievements. This includes massive poverty reduction and surpassing the United States in key indicators like life expectancy. How is U.S. aggression against China related to their continuous rise? Brian is joined by Tings Chak, Shanghai-based researcher at the Tricontinental Institute & a member of Dongsheng News collective and the author of the pamphlet “Serve the People: The Eradication of Extreme Poverty in China.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 17, 2022
Evictions, rising rents and unaffordable homes: Capitalist housing market a total failure
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the housing market as the Federal Reserve-induced economic downturn takes shape. The situation is rapidly deteriorating for both renters and prospective home buyers, with evictions on the rise, prices rising and interest rates spiraling out of control. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, August 16, 2022
Fighting Back Since 1619: Black August, Political Prisoners & the Fight for Socialism
The month of Black August focuses on the importance of the continued struggle for Black liberation and honors the lives and struggle of political prisoners—and calls for their freedom. While many have been released, like Albert Woodfox, who was released in 2016 and passed away earlier this month, many still linger behind bars, even in solitary confinement and in their 80s or sick. What does the ongoing treatment of these organizers and fighters tell us about the nature of the capitalist system and the tools that the ruling class fears the most? Nicole Roussell is joined by Nino Brown, a member of the Jericho Movement, which organizes to free political prisoners, and an organizer for the Party for Socialism and Liberation. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 11, 2022
Strangling Cuba: Biden Retains Trump’s Disastrous Policy w/ Manolo de los Santos
A massive fire in Matanzas, Cuba, is coming under control after five days due to tireless efforts by firefighters and specialist crews. But the U.S. blockade, which worsened under Trump with 243 additional coercive measures, and which Biden has largely kept in place, has deprived Cuba of the equipment and resources necessary to handle this disaster. Brian is joined by Manolo De Los Santos, a central organizer of the Let Cuba Live campaign and the co-executive director of The People’s Forum in New York. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 10, 2022
High Prices, Low Wages: The Senate's New Inflation Act Is Class Warfare
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff analyze the Senate's spending bill entitled the "Inflation Reduction Act" for the effect it could have on inflation. It falls far short of what’s desperately needed to address the overlapping crises causing so much suffering for working people. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, August 09, 2022
Disaster Strikes Twice: How Lethal U.S. Policies Target Cuba Even During Natural Disasters
A deadly fire broke out over the weekend in Cuba from a lightning storm that struck near an oil storage facility and caused an explosion. At least one person has been confirmed dead, and dozens more are injured and missing. This tragic natural disaster could have happened in any country, but is even harder on Cuba due to the U.S. war against them...including many of Trump’s policies that Biden hasn’t touched. Nicole Roussell is joined by Gloria La Riva, coordinator of the Cuba and Venezuela Solidarity Committee and one of the co-founders of the Hatuey Project at hatueyproject.org. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 04, 2022
Pelosi Leaves Taiwan: The Real Agenda & What Happens Next
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the island of Taiwan this week, in an unprecedented escalation toward China. What will the fallout be? Could Pelosi have made this trip without the administration’s blessing? Will this surprise visit anger US allies in the region? Brian is joined by Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University, founding director of the Confucius Institute at New Mexico State University, and activist with Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 03, 2022
Bank of America Memo Exposes Capitalists' Plot to Crash the Economy
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss a leaked memo written by a top Bank of America economist that reveals in explicit terms the strategy of the capitalist class: cause as much suffering among workers as possible to rebalance the economy in favor of the rich. As the U.S. begins to experience an intentionally-caused recession, it is now even clearer that this is a matter of class struggle. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, August 02, 2022
High Stakes In Kansas Vote: Right-Wing Assault Against Women, Abortion Rights & Democracy
In a huge moment for the state and for the country, Kansas is voting today on a constitutional amendment that would effectively ban abortions if passed. Kansans are mobilized and fighting against this attack on women. In this edition of The Socialist Program, we air three presentations from a convening at The People’s Forum in New York called Free, safe, legal abortions now! Justice is ours to make! The first speaker who is introduced is Claudia De La Cruz, co-executive director of The People’s Forum, popular educator, community organizer, and theologian. Claudia then introduces Karina Garcia, reproductive justice organizer for over a decade and member of the Central Committee of the Party for Socialism and Liberation. The last speaker is Mara Verheyden-Hilliard, a constitutional rights lawyer and executive director of the Partnership for Civil Justice Fund. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, July 28, 2022
Gerald Horne Discusses His New Book: The Counter Revolution of 1836
Texans revolted against Mexico’s rule in 1836—because Mexico was moving to abolish slavery. The fascist element in the state has links into modern day, and the history of Texas is crucial as this decade unfolds. Brian is joined by Dr. Gerald Horne, who holds the Moores Professorship of History and African American Studies at the University of Houston and is the author of many books. His newly published book, “The Counter Revolution of 1836: Texas slavery & Jim Crow and the roots of American Fascism,” is available through International Publishers. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, July 26, 2022
Socialist Solutions: Climate Change Ravages the Planet
Despite the horrendous heat wave that’s been hitting Europe and parts of the US, the Biden administration has yet to take truly meaningful action, and reports of his possible announcements this week don’t appear to meet the gravity of the climate crisis. What could the government be doing and how do we get there? Brian is joined by Tina Landis, an organizer in the environmental and social justice movements and the author of the book Climate Solutions Beyond Capitalism, which she is currently on tour nationwide to discuss. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, July 21, 2022
Dangerous Game: Pelosi Provokes China Over Taiwan
The Biden administration is turning up the heat against China yet again, as news leaks that Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi is traveling to Taiwan in August—another in a series of majorly escalatory acts. Brian is joined by Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University, founding director of the Confucius Institute at New Mexico State University, and activist with Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 20, 2022
Inflation: A Capitalist Tool of Class War Against the Working Class
On today's episode, Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff break down the real cause of inflation. Inflation is rising prices, which is something the working class doesn't control. Businesses—and the Fed when it raises prices for borrowers by increasing interest rates—do control prices. Why do businesses do this since inflation is bad for the economy? Can the government change this? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, July 19, 2022
Biden's Colossal Failure in the Middle East: How the U.S. Position Is Weakening in Global Politics
Biden just landed from a multi-day tour in the Middle East where he spectacularly failed at his goals, including bringing more Arab countries into an alliance with Israel and bringing the price of oil down. This week, Russian President Putin is meeting with Iranian & Turkish leaders including Supreme Leader Khamenei and President Erdogan--showing that Iran and Russia are not as isolated as Biden makes them out to be. U.S. influence is declining, but will U.S. officials change their approach? Brian is joined by Professor Mohammad Marandi. He is an expert on American studies and postcolonial literature who teaches at the University of Tehran. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Fri, July 15, 2022
Behind the Propaganda: U.S. & British Intelligence Ramp Up Threats Against China
In an escalation in the cold war against China, the heads of the U.S. FBI and UK MI5 spoke jointly in London on the “serious threat“ that they say the Chinese government poses to Western businesses. Meanwhile, New York City released a PSA on what to do in a nuclear war, where the main recommended tactic is to go inside. What is behind the sensationalist language and where have we seen it before? Brian is joined by Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University, founding director of the Confucius Institute at New Mexico State University, and activist with Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 29, 2022
Will the West, not Russia, Lose the Most from the Global Sanctions Regime?
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how the leaders of the wealthy G7 nations gathered in Germany this week for a summit focused on isolating Russia from the world economy. The summit discussed attempts to impose a “price cap” on Russian oil exports and a prohibition on trading Russian gold, but is this sanctions regime backfiring on the west? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, June 28, 2022
Mass Protests Erupt as Supreme Court Decimates Abortion Rights: Demand Biden Act Now!
The Supreme Court – an unelected group of nine millionaires with lifetime appointments – have overturned Roe v. Wade, which guaranteed the right to abortion at the federal level. Tens of thousands have been in the streets all over the country since the Dobbs decision was announced on Friday, and in the weeks prior to that in response to the draft decision leak. Biden called abortion “a fundamental right” in his speech Friday reacting to the decision, but has so far taken no action to restore this right. How can a militant women’s movement overcome the indifference and outright hostility of the political establishment towards abortion rights? In this special edition of The Socialist Program, we air two interviews from our video partner BreakThrough News from their live coverage just after the Dobbs decision came down. Hosts Eugene Puryear and Rania Khalek BT were joined by Kym Smith -- an organizer with the Party for Socialism and Liberation in South Carolina -- and Mara Verheyden-Hilliard -- a constitutional rights lawyer and executive director of the Partnership for Civil Justice Fund. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 23, 2022
Building Revolutionary Solidarity Across the Americas Against the Failed “Summit of the Americas”
In a true show of intercontinental solidarity, words from Cuban President Miguel Diaz Canel joined the speeches of Native activist and Co-Director of the International Leonard Peltier Defense Committee Jean Roach, National Director of BYP100 D’atra Jackson, and host of this show, Brian Becker, at the final plenary of the three-day-long People’s Summit for Democracy in early June. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 22, 2022
Going Left: Lessons for the Left from French Elections
On today's episode, Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the elections in France's legislature that led to a large upswing in seats won by the progressives and current President Macron's center-right party losing their governing majority. What does this energy behind the left in France tell us? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, June 21, 2022
What Westerners Should Learn About The Accomplishments & Challenges of China
Anti-China news and disinformation dominate the mainstream press in Western countries. When the pandemic hit, several researchers, mainly in the Global South, decided that they needed a news source for the facts of what is going on in China day to day. Tings Chak, based in Shanghai, and others founded Dongsheng News, which covers national policies like the campaign that eradicated extreme poverty and new advances in the fight against the climate crisis, news issues like agriculture and regional government, and important topics like culture and society for a true perspective into China. Brian is joined by Tings to take you inside China to discuss the necessity of alternative media about China, the realities of Covid in China, the US, and the world, the views in different parts of China about the U.S. and Chinese governments, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 16, 2022
International Peoples’ Assembly: Building a New Global Movement Against Capitalism & For Socialism
Working class communities around the world are organizing against capitalism. They are also forging a new international movement of solidarity and cooperation in the International People’s Assembly. How can organizers build international unity, and oppose the tools used by the ruling class to divide and defeat the popular movements that are expanding democracy while fighting to save the planet? Brian is joined at the People's Summit for Democracy by Stephanie Weatherbee Brito with the International Peoples' Assembly. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 15, 2022
Workers Crushed as Inflation Hits 40-year High
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the newly-released inflation report that found that prices rose at a breathtaking pace – 8.6 percent, the highest in over 40 years. Anger is spreading across the country as working people struggle to afford the basic necessities in life as fuel, food and other essential commodities become increasingly unaffordable. What can be done to solve the crisis? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, June 14, 2022
Biden's Failed Summit: Latin America Resists
On today's episode, Brian Becker interviews Roberto Lovato. Since the Monroe Doctrine, Latin America has resisted U.S. attempts to dominate the region. Last week, another instance of resistance took place around the Summit of the Americas, which many heads of state boycotted over the Biden administration's decision to exclude Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua. Brian and Roberto Lovato discuss this, the urgent need to end the blockade of Cuba, and the hypocrisy of U.S. immigration policy as Ukrainians are welcomed but immigrants from Latin America and the Caribbean are caged. Roberto Lovato is the author of the critically-acclaimed memoir Unforgetting. Lovato is a journalist and visiting professor of English at the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Lovato has reported on numerous issues—violence, terrorism, the drug war and the refugee crisis—from Mexico, Venezuela, El Salvador, Dominican Republic, Haiti, France and the United States, among other countries. Photo credit: Midia Ninja Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, June 13, 2022
Brian Becker Seminar #16: Ukraine, China, DPRK, Struggle in the U.S. & More
In this May 2022 patrons-only seminar, Brian focuses on answering questions from patrons, including multiple about the ongoing war in Ukraine, the connection to China and North Korea, how political organizing in the U.S. has changed over the decades, organizing in rural areas, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, June 09, 2022
Biden's Lies on Cuba: Blocked from Summit of Americas, No Visas for People's Summit
Biden excluded Cuba from the Summit of the Americas, and then the U.S. government blocked visas for Cuban special guests to the People's Summit of Democracy as well. To discuss the U.S. policy of exclusion and the double standards in U.S. definitions of “democracy,” Brian is joined at the People's Summit for Democracy by Gail Walker, executive director of the Interreligious Foundation for Community Organization and Pastors for Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 08, 2022
A Recession Is Coming? In This Economy??
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the possibility of a recession, now that the majority of CEOs foresee one. They're calling it mild, but is that what the economic signals are showing? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, June 07, 2022
A New Era: Why Major Power Conflict?
On today's episode, John Prysner interviews Brian Becker. The struggle between imperialism and the people of the world goes on every day and everywhere. But the form taken by imperialism and the strategies it pursues is always changing. What are the main epochs of this history, and what lessons can be learned for the contemporary movement for justice and self-determination? Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 02, 2022
Official US Policy: We Can ‘Win’ a Nuclear War
Three decades after the end of the so-called Cold War the threat of all-out nuclear conflict – and therefore the annihilation of life on Earth as we know it – is a real and growing danger. But this time, the threat to human civilization is compounded by the crisis of climate change. We need a new system if humanity is to step back from the brink. Brian is joined by John Bellamy Foster, the editor of Monthly Review and a professor of sociology at the University of Oregon. He’s the author of several books, including Naked Imperialism: The U.S. Pursuit of Global Dominance, and The Return of Nature: Socialism and Ecology. Look at for his new book being published August 23 called “Capitalism in the Anthropocene: Ecological Ruin or Ecological Revolution.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 01, 2022
Why do the Gun Capitalists Have Legal Immunity?
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how outrage is spreading across the country in the wake of the mass shooting at Robb Elementary School. The complete failure and cowardice on the part of the police allowed the killer to carry out the massacre. And the gun manufacturers who profit while mass shootings devastate the country are given special legal protections. How are the arms industry capitalists shielded from accountability? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 26, 2022
Doves Die in Ukraine: When Did Liberals Turn On Peace? With Eugene Puryear
As the U.S./NATO proxy war in Ukraine against Russia rages, the imperialist establishment is increasingly united behind a strategy of escalation. Brian and Eugene Puryear trace the development of this increasingly hostile approach over the years and decades; and review the most important recent military, economic and political developments in the conflict. Eugene Puryear is the host of the BreakThrough News podcast The Punch Out, and co-host of the BT live video show The Freedom Side. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 25, 2022
How the Ultra-Rich Hide their Billions
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the report from the Tax Justice Network, a well-known international organization, finding that the United States is now the country with the greatest degree of financial secrecy in the entire world. Banks and corporations move in the shadows, concealing their operations and vast wealth. What are the ultra rich up to behind the scenes? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, May 24, 2022
Planning for War Everywhere
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem and Walter Smolarek discuss how Congress raced to pass a massive $40 billion spending package for the war in Ukraine at the same time as the foreign policy establishment contemplates the possibility of a military confrontation with China. They also discuss the anniversary of the murder of George Floyd and the racist massacre in Buffalo, the struggle for abortion rights as the Supreme Court ruling looms, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, May 21, 2022
"We Are At A Crossroads." — Brian Becker Keynote Speech At L.A. Socialism Conference
Today's bonus episode is a recording of Brian Becker's keynote speech at the Los Angeles Socialism Conference on May 7th, 2022. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 19, 2022
Summit of Americas Collapsing: Region Says NO to Exclusion of Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua
The Summit of the Americas being held next month in Los Angeles is shaping up to be a humiliation for the Biden administration. In response to the United States’ attempt to exclude Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua from the gathering, leaders in Bolivia, Mexico and Caribbean states plan to boycott. And activists in Los Angeles along with others throughout the country and the hemisphere are planning a People’s Summit for Democracy as a counter-event to demand an end to U.S. aggression against Latin America and highlight the people’s struggles against injustice inside the United States itself. Brian is joined by Manolo De Los Santos, the co-executive director of The People’s Forum in New York, and a longtime popular educator. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 18, 2022
Capitalism Is Bad for Babies: What's Behind the Infant Formula Crisis?
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the shortage of infant formula and how the capitalist economy isn't structured to take into consideration the survival needs even of babies. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, May 17, 2022
Mass Killing in Buffalo & the Promotion of Fascist Ideology in the USA
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, and Nicole Roussell discuss the racist massacre in Buffalo, New York over the weekend, journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was killed by Israeli forces and despite being an American the United States hasn’t responded, Finland and Sweden are nearly set to join NATO, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 12, 2022
China’s View on Ukraine War and New World Order
How does China view the war in Ukraine? Brian Becker and Tings Chak discuss China’s foreign policy and how Chinese leaders are grappling with the world situation as it is transformed by the war. They also deal with the state of China’s fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S.-instigated tensions over Taiwan, and more. Brian is joined by Tings Chak, a researcher at Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research and a member of the Dongsheng News collective. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 11, 2022
How to Tackle the Inflation Crisis in the Interests of the Working Class
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how the Federal Reserve raised interest rates at the highest rate in over 20 years, signaling a major shift in policy as it attempts to tackle the spiraling inflation crisis. But will this maneuver work? Or is it likely to instead spark a new recession? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, May 10, 2022
We Can't Wait Until November: Thousands Take to the Streets to Defend Abortion Rights
On today's In the News roundtable, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how protesters took to the streets all throughout the last week in cities and towns across the country in outraged response to the Supreme Court’s draft ruling overturning Roe v. Wade – which was heroically leaked to the public before it was finalized. The panel also discusses the latest updates on the war in Ukraine, elections in the Philippines and Northern Ireland, Amazon being challenged in the halls of Congress, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, May 05, 2022
Escalation in Ukraine: The Nuclear War Danger is Real
As the United States escalates the war in Ukraine by sending another $33 billion, the possibility of nuclear war is coming into focus. Brian and Greg Mello discuss how the U.S. policy of waging proxy war on Russia via Ukraine raises the threat of a direct confrontation between the two nuclear-armed powers. What is the United States’ strategy in this nuclear game of chicken and what are the dangers of nuclear war? Greg Mello is co-founder and Executive Director of the Los Alamos Study Group. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, May 04, 2022
At the Brink: Global Food Crisis
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the global food crisis that is taking shape with major price rises already being felt around the world – a grave situation that is expected to deepen. As the war in Ukraine drags on and as the western countries attempt to cut Russia off from the global economy, disruptions to supply chains and shortages are becoming even more severe. The global capitalist market is yet again proving to be incapable of ensuring something as basic as food to the world’s population. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, May 03, 2022
Ukraine: The Danger of a Wider War
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how the Biden administration is preparing by far the biggest package of military aid yet for Ukraine. With hardly any debate, Congress is ready to approve sending $20 billion of weapons to Ukraine on top of $13 billion in additional financial support for the government – a point driven home by Nancy Pelosi’s surprise trip to Kiev. The panel also discusses the continuing rollback of pandemic relief programs, the fight to defend abortion rights, demands for student loan debt relief, and more. The following articles are referenced in this episode: The U.S. Should Show It Can Win a Nuclear War https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-us-show-it-can-win-a-nuclear-war-russia-putin-ukraine-nato-sarmat-missile-testing-warning-11651067733 The Means-Test Con https://www.levernews.com/the-means-test-con/ [This episode was recorded Monday (May 2nd 2022) late afternoon prior to the news that the Supreme Court majority had voted to overturn Roe V. Wade and extinguish women’s fundamental right to control their own body. Starting last night and throughout today, and in the coming days, there will be mass protests in the streets throughout the United States.] ——— Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Fri, April 29, 2022
Brian Becker Seminar #15: The New Era In World Politics (Preview)
In this April 2022 patrons-only seminar, Brian and Nicole focus on the new era in world politics taking shape as a consequence of the Ukraine war & other global trends. Where are we coming from and where are we headed? Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, April 28, 2022
Ukraine: From Proxy War to Nuclear War?
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says the United States is ready for anything after Russian officials warn of the danger of nuclear war. Brian and Eugene Puryear discuss how the NATO powers are implementing their strategy of fighting a long-term proxy conflict against Russia as well as Russia’s move to end gas sales to Poland and Bulgaria amid all-out economic warfare waged by the west. They also put these current developments into a historical perspective and explore how relations between the peoples of the region were completely different during the Soviet period. Eugene Puryear is the host of the BreakThrough News podcast The Punch Out, and co-host of the BT live video show The Freedom Side. ——— This show comes out weekly on BreakThrough News’ Youtube, Wednesdays at 7pm ET. Subscribe now to never miss an episode. The Socialist Program with Brian Becker also comes out three times per week in podcast form — including weekly news round-ups and segments with economist Richard Wolff. Subscribe on your preferred listening platform here! https://linktr.ee/thesocialistprogram ——— Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 27, 2022
Elon Musk Buys Twitter - How Capitalism Mutilates the Notion of a "Free Press"
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss Elon Musk, a billionaire, buying Twitter, one of the world's largest mass communications platforms. Why are billionaires so determined to control the information available to the public? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, April 26, 2022
U.S. Officials' Goal is to "Weaken Russia" in a Long War in Ukraine
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how a high profile visit to Kiev by Defense Secretary Austin and Secretary of State Blinken further cemented the central role of the United States in equipping and organizing the Ukrainian war effort -- and blocking peace talks. They also discuss Elon Musk moving in on Twitter, French President Macron winning re-election, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, April 21, 2022
New Cold War Witch Hunt Targets Journalists Opposed to US Empire
The war in Ukraine has ushered in a new era of global politics, and it has also ushered in a new political witch hunt against dissenting voices. With more and more intensity, the corporate media – including social media giants – are closing ranks to squeeze out anyone who dares speak up in opposition to the Pentagon’s narrative and against catastrophic confrontation between the United States and Russia. Brian is joined by Ben Norton. He is a journalist and editor of Multipolarista. You can find his work at BenNorton.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 20, 2022
Tax Day: Exposing the Lies of the Rich
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the extreme injustices of the U.S. tax system. Monday was Tax Day — no cause for celebration for millions of ordinary people. But for the ultra rich, it wasn’t so bad. Many of the wealthiest people on the planet actually pay a tax rate that is lower than a typical worker — how do they get away with this scam? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, April 19, 2022
Politicians Push for an Even Wider War in Ukraine
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how powerful figures in the West are pushing for even graver acts of reckless escalation in Ukraine, and how big oil is cashing in on the war with plans for massive drilling expansion with the help of the Biden administration. The panel also discusses the latest right wing attacks on so-called “Critical Race Theory”, how the super rich pay little to nothing in taxes, the latest developments in Palestine, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, April 14, 2022
Ukraine War & the New Era in Global Politics: Where Are We Headed?
On today's episode Nicole Roussell interviews Brian Becker about the new phase of heightened conflict that world politics is entering. As the United States moves aggressively to maintain its position of the world's dominant power, the globe is becoming increasingly polarized between supporters of this world order and those who fall outside of it -- a process dramatically accelerated by the war in Ukraine. This is playing out economically, diplomatically, and militarily. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 13, 2022
Historic Price Surge Continues -- Recession Coming?
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss what's coming next for our economy as inflation rises and pressure mounts on the Federal Reserve to pull back its extraordinary support for big business. Is a recession coming? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, April 12, 2022
Ukraine Fighting Shifts As NATO Eyes Even Further Expansion
On today's In the News roundtable, Nicole Roussell, Esther Iverem and Walter Smolarek discuss how the fighting in Ukraine is intensifying in the country’s east at the same time as the United States and its NATO allies are seeking to prolong the war for their own geopolitical benefit. The panel also discusses how the courts continue to offer impunity for police brutality, the arrest of a Texas woman on murder charges for having an abortion, the presidential election in France, the status of Iran nuclear deal negotiations, and more. Article referenced in this show: The Origins of Ukraine’s Fascists & Why It Matters, with Historian Tarik Cyril Amar https://www.breakthroughnews.org/post/the-origins-of-ukraine-s-fascists-why-it-matters-with-historian-tarik-cyril-amar Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, April 07, 2022
Give War a Chance: NATO and Neo-Nazis Want Ukraine Conflict to Go on Forever
The war in Ukraine is entering a new phase. NATO leaders are meeting and are clearly worried that the Zelenskyy government might agree to a negotiated end to the war. Brian Becker and Dr. Gabriel Rockhill discuss the internal politics in Ukraine with a focus on the role of the far right, fascists and neo-Nazis. Brian is joined by Dr. Gabriel Rockhill, Founding Director of the Critical Theory Workshop and Professor of Philosophy at Villanova University. You can check out his latest article on today’s subject at LiberationNews.org, titled, “Nazis in Ukraine: Seeing through the fog of the information war” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, April 06, 2022
Amazon Workers Rise: Union Wins Historic Victory Against Corporate Giant
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how Amazon workers in Staten Island made history by forming the first labor union in the United States at the corporate giant. Meanwhile, support for unionization increased as Amazon workers participated in a re-vote at a facility in Bessemer, Alabama, with the final outcome still too close to call. The surge of labor militancy is continuing and taking on bigger and bigger opponents – what comes next? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, April 05, 2022
How the U.S. Government Manipulates the Public to Build Support for Larger War in Ukraine
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem and Walter Smolarek discuss how NATO countries search for ways to deepen the conflict in Ukraine with arms shipments and sanctions, while promoting selective outrage at the violence of war. The panel also discusses the victory of workers in Staten Island who formed the first Amazon union in the United States, Martin Luther King’s legacy 54 years after his assassination, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, April 02, 2022
Brian Becker Seminar #14: Ukraine, Biden Calls For Regime Change In Russia, & More (Preview)
In this March 2022 patrons-only seminar, Brian and Nicole discuss and answer questions about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, including Biden's call for Putin to be removed from power in Russia, what a nuclear war would really mean, and more. They also discuss the struggle for women's liberation and the wider "New Cold War" against China. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, March 31, 2022
China Reaffirms Closer Relations with Russia as Ukraine War Continues
Key international relationships are being profoundly tested by the war in Ukraine, especially the alliance between China and Russia – the two countries at the top of the U.S. empire’s hit list. How does China’s government view Russia’s decision to invade Ukraine? Will the relationship between the two countries grow closer or more distant as the western powers attempt to cut Russia off from the global economy? What consequences will this have for the entire world? Brian is joined by Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University, founding director of the Confucius Institute at New Mexico State University, and activist with Pivot to Peace. ——— This show comes out weekly on BreakThrough News’ Youtube, Wednesdays at 7pm ET. Subscribe now to never miss an episode. The Socialist Program with Brian Becker also comes out three times per week in podcast form — including weekly news round-ups and segments with economist Richard Wolff. Subscribe on your preferred listening platform here! https://linktr.ee/thesocialistprogram ——— Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, March 30, 2022
Biden's New Budget Gives $31 Billion Gift to War Industry
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the Biden administration's budget proposal for the coming year on Monday, proposing an enormous increase to the military budget as the new Cold War intensifies. Biden also included a proposal to tax the ultra-rich, but is this really enough to make a dent in the enormous level of inequality in this country? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, March 29, 2022
U.S. Strategy vs. Russia: Regime Change, Encirclement, or Both?
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how Joe Biden deepened the war in Ukraine during a trip to Poland over the weekend when he declared that Russian president Putin “cannot remain in power.” As the United States and other NATO powers raise the stakes, is there any hope for a breakthrough in negotiations? The panel also discusses the administration’s massive new military spending proposal, protests against British colonialism in the Caribbean, the death of Madeline Albright, the debate over Russian oil purchases, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, March 26, 2022
Ukraine as a Pawn: The Real Reason the US Forced a Crisis with Russia
The war in Ukraine has altered the global order. How is it changing politics around the globe? What is the historical background of the different nations in the region throughout the different historical eras and how does that affect the current conflict? What does history tell us about where this is headed? Brian Becker is joined by Vijay Prashad, the Executive Director of the Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research, Chief Editor of LeftWord Books, and author of “Red Star Over the Third World.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, March 23, 2022
U.S. Capitalists Scapegoat Russia for Soaring Prices
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the still increasing costs of many necessities, as the United States flounders in the economic crisis that's now been ongoing for several years. To what extent is the war in Ukraine having an effect? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, March 22, 2022
Let it Burn: How the US Could Have Prevented the Ukraine War, But Didn't
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the latest on Ukraine -- developments from the battlefield as well as the shockwaves rippling across world politics and the economy. They also discuss how the dictatorship of capital continues to imperil lives amid the pandemic, an impending wave of utility shut offs, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 17, 2022
Why a Ukraine “No-Fly Zone” is a One-Way Ticket to Nuclear War
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy gave a high profile address to Congress calling for stepped up US involvement in the war — especially through the imposition of a “no-fly zone”. While this idea is presented as a humanitarian move, the reality is that such an action would mean that the two largest nuclear-armed powers would be in a state of war with each other. Brian and Eugene Puryear discuss this and more of the latest developments in the Ukraine war. Eugene Puryear is the host of the BreakThrough News podcast The Punch Out, and co-host of the BT live video show The Freedom Side. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, March 15, 2022
War Profiteers Cash In
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how Congress has allocated billions of dollars in military spending at breakneck speed to fuel the war in Ukraine, and is moving to permanently expand the U.S./NATO war machine -- but no such urgency can be found when it comes to the plight of the tens of millions of people going hungry, experiencing homelessness, or living in deep poverty in the richest country on earth. And all the while, capitalists grow even richer off these injustices. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 10, 2022
Ukraine War: Russia, the United States, and the Nature of Imperialism
As the world enters a new phase of major power conflict, it is crucial to understand the character of the Russian government and the role it plays on the world stage. Is Russia an imperialist power, equivalent to countries like the United States, France or the UK? How has the imperialist world system been set up – and is Russia in the club, or out? Brian is joined by Ben Norton. He is a journalist and editor of Multipolarista. You can find his work at BenNorton.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, March 09, 2022
Lee Camp -- CENSORED
On today's special edition of The Socialist Program, Brian is joined by Lee Camp, a writer, comedian, activist and journalist. For eight years Lee hosted the television show “Redacted Tonight”, but this anti-war, anti-imperialist program has now been shut down along with all the shows on RT America amid the anti-Russia frenzy sweeping the country. They discuss how censorship and militarism go hand-in-hand, especially in this current moment of crisis. Lee’s latest book is called “Bullet Points & Punch Lines.” You can find that and more of his work at leecamp.com, and you can support his work at Patreon.com/LeeCamp. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, March 08, 2022
How the U.S. Used Ukrainians as Pawns in its Imperial Game
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, and Walter Smolarek discuss the devastating sanctions imposed on Russia by the United States and its allies and the frenzy to boycott and denounce all things Russian. They also discuss International Women’s Day, the anniversary of the Bloody Sunday attack on civil rights demonstrators in Selma and the struggle for voting rights today, the far right convoy converging on Washington, D.C., and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, March 03, 2022
Ukraine War: Who’s to Blame and What’s the Solution? A Socialist View
Intense bombing and fighting continues throughout Ukraine as Russia’s war enters its second week. Western countries have imposed a sanctions regime on Russia that is battering the economy and hitting workers the hardest. Eugene Puryear and Brian Becker discuss the latest on the war and explore the essential historical context, establishing five basic principles and points of unity for progressive forces in the West. They also discuss how the question of war and imperialism has served as an essential litmus test for socialists in the past. Eugene Puryear is the host of the BreakThrough News podcast The Punch Out, and co-host of the BT live video show The Freedom Side. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, March 01, 2022
War Intensifies as Russia-Ukraine Negotiations Open
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the war in Ukraine, which continues to rage as the world is engulfed in a crisis that has the potential to reconfigure global politics in fundamental ways. What consequences has the war brought about so far? Which side is winning? How can peace truly be established? The panel discusses these questions as well the consequences of climate change, the far right and COVID, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, February 28, 2022
Ukraine: Questions for the US Anti-War Movement w/ Abby Martin & Brian Becker
Abby Martin and Brian Becker discuss the Ukraine war and what it means for the anti-war movement. This episode was produced in collaboration with The Empire Files: https://soundcloud.com/empire-files / https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG29FnXZm4F5U8xpqs1cs1Q / https://www.patreon.com/empirefiles Watch the video version of this episode on the Empire Files or BreakThrough News YouTube channels. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, February 24, 2022
Ukraine Powder Keg: Why NATO Expansion Must End
[This episode was recorded Wednesday, February 23rd, 2022 at 3 PM Eastern Standard Time] A historic crisis is playing out in Eastern Europe over Ukraine, one that has profound ramifications for the entire world. The United States and its allies are imposing harsh sanctions on Russia over its recognition of the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics as independent states, and the possibility of direct clashes between the Ukrainian and Russian military looms. This episode covers how NATO expansion and the 2014 western-backed coup in Ukraine created the powderkeg situation that is currently exploding, and what may come next. Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, author and activist, host of the BreakThrough News podcast The Punch Out, and co-host of the BT live video show The Freedom Side. Watch the video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, February 22, 2022
Crisis in Ukraine
On today's In the News roundtable, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the latest on the dramatic situation unfolding in Ukraine. They also discuss two important historical anniversaries: Richard Nixon visiting Mao Zedong in Beijing 50 years ago, and the assassination of Malcolm X 57 years ago. The panel also covers the far right convoy in Canada, a shooting at a protest in Portland, Daunte Wright’s killer's sentencing, methane plumes seen from space, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, February 19, 2022
Brian Becker Seminar #13: Ukraine, Germany, The Soviet Union, & More (Prevew)
In this February 2022 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew discuss and answer questions about the ongoing conflict surrounding Ukraine, Germany’s regional role, the history of World War I and World War II and how it relates today, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, February 17, 2022
Peace is Possible: The Solution to the Crisis in Ukraine
Tensions remain sky high in Ukraine and across Europe but do they have to remain so? There is a path to peace — and solution to the crisis — but it requires recognizing the neutrality of Ukraine, which has long been internally divided. Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, author and activist, host of the BreakThrough News podcast The Punch Out, and co-host of the BT live video show The Freedom Side. Watch the video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News!: http://youtu.be/uPAqExszum0 Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 16, 2022
The Right to Organize: Starbucks Workers Stand Strong in the Face of Firings
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the wave of organizing exploding across Starbucks locations nationwide, and how the company is desperately trying to thwart the union by illegally firing employees who are involved. As the class struggle continues to heat up nationwide, corporations are attempting to trample on the right to organize at the workplace. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, February 15, 2022
The Fraud of Capitalist Democracy
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how war mongering propaganda against Russia has reached a fever pitch as the United States pushes the crisis in Ukraine to the brink. They also discuss Johnson & Johnson’s decision to halt vaccine production, the attempted lynching of a Black FedEx driver, more racist disenfranchisement, and other stories showing the hollow nature of so-called democracy under U.S. capitalism. Plus, this episode covers the far-right “trucker protest” in Canada. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, February 10, 2022
Revolution vs. Counter Revolution after World War Two — Lessons of Soviet History, Part 4
After the triumph of the Soviet Union over fascism in World War Two, world politics was completely transformed. No longer allies in the war against the Axis states, the “democratic” capitalist countries turned on the USSR and formed a global bloc of all the imperialist powers to confront the rising tide of socialist revolution. In Part 4 of The Socialist Program’s multi-part series on the history of the Soviet Union, we discuss the emergence of the global class war known as “the Cold War” and key milestones in its early years. This includes the advent of nuclear weapons; the revolutions in China, Korea and Vietnam; the formation of NATO, and more. Watch the video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! Brian is joined by Carlos Martinez, author of “The End of the Beginning: Lessons of the Soviet Collapse,” co-founder of the No Cold War Campaign, and editor of the political analysis site Invent-The-Future.org. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 09, 2022
The New York Times' War Against Workers
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the newly released New York Times internal communications about the unionization efforts going on at the newspaper. U.S. politicians and officials loudly and frequently declare the United States to have "free press" -- but how does capitalism and for-profit, union-busting, private press operate freely? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, February 08, 2022
Human Rights?? U.S. Hypocrisy on Full Display as Beijing Olympics Open
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how the U.S. corporate media subjected viewers to wall-to-wall war mongering propaganda targeting the government and people of China as the Olympics opened in Beijing. They also discuss how pro-Trump forces consolidate their control of the Republican Party, a new report on Israeli apartheid against Palestinians, protesters demanding justice for Amir Locke, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, February 03, 2022
The Untold History of NATO and Case for Its Abolition
NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is moving ever closer to Russia’s border. Russia views this as an existential threat – and a historic betrayal of key guarantees it was given by the west as the Soviet Union disintegrated. As Biden sends thousands of additional troops to Eastern Europe, the threat of war is growing by the day. Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, author and activist, host of the BreakThrough News podcast The Punch Out, and co-host of the BT live video show The Freedom Side. Watch the video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, February 02, 2022
An Empire in Decline: Why the Ruling Class Blame Game Will Fail
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the increasingly unstable political environment, as Dr. Wolff writes about in his newest article. He argues that some politicians are denying there are any problems while some find a scapegoat where they can direct people's anger--and both of which are symptoms of the political elite desperately trying to protect the capitalist system. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com, and read the article here: https://www.alternet.org/2022/01/capitalism. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Fri, January 28, 2022
Brian Becker Seminar #12: Ukraine, Russia, NATO, & More (Preview)
In this January 2022 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew discuss the Ukraine conflict at length, including a deep dive into the historical and geopolitical context of the region, the legacy of World Wars and the Cold War, the class character of the Russian state today, and more. We also discuss a Marxist analysis of class stratification in the U.S. today. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, January 27, 2022
Risking World War III with Russia: Why?
Is war with Russia just around the corner? If you listen to corporate U.S. media and politicians it is. Brian Becker and Eugene Puryear break down what’s really going on in Ukraine and Russia, what the context of the tension is, and what the chances are of war. Brian is joined by Eugene Puryear, author and activist, host of the BreakThrough News podcast The Punch Out, and co-host of the BT live video show The Freedom Side. Watch the video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwZtBKjGSMzU5sfEXGAUcC-ZqOINABYNi Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, January 26, 2022
Fear Grips Wall Street: Is the Big Crash Coming?
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the recently turbulent stock market. What does this mean for the economy and for us? Is this volatility a sign of something to come? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, January 25, 2022
U.S. Imperialism: Addicted to War & Militarism
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem and Nicole Roussell discuss the U.S. evacuation of the U.S. embassy in Kiev while stating that war with Russia may be soon, the win for Julian Assange giving him his right to appeal to the U.K. Supreme Court to stop his extradition to the United States, the Senate's maneuvers against protecting voting rights, and the newly exposed U.S. war crimes against the people in Syria. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, January 20, 2022
U.S. Prepares for War with China, 50 Years After Nixon’s Visit and Shanghai Communiqué
Brian Becker and Dr. Ken Hammond discuss U.S. aggression against China, which often uses Taiwan as a pretext. But next month is the 50th anniversary of the Shanghai Communiqué – a document the U.S. and China jointly signed, after Nixon visited the country, which recognized that Taiwan is in fact part of China. Brian is joined by Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University, founding director of the Confucius Institute at New Mexico State University, and activist with Pivot to Peace. Watch the video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, January 19, 2022
Wall Street Panic: The Paradox of Inflation & A Slowing Economy
On today's episode Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss cascading crises that rocked Wall Street and the stock market, which crashed yesterday, as inflation spikes and the economy slows. Things are about to get much worse as the Federal Reserve plans to raise interest rates Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, January 18, 2022
The Racist Offensive - Time to Fight Back!
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem and Nicole Roussell discuss how the right-wing U.S. Supreme Court has decided to help spread Covid, how Senators Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema are joining with the Supreme Court and the Republican Party to destroy voting rights, especially for Black Americans, how people nationwide remembered Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the streets yesterday and how the U.S. war machine continues its escalation of threats against Russia at the Ukrainian-Russian border. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, January 13, 2022
Fascism in the USA and Strategies to Fight It
Brian Becker, Claudia De La Cruz and Gabriel Rockhill continue The Socialist Program’s analysis of the deeper meaning of the January 6 assault that temporarily dispersed Congress. One year after the attack attempted to overturn the election, the architects of that plan have yet to face prosecution and a movement of the far-right consolidates. There is a liberal response to fascism that prioritizes an alliance with one section of the ruling class and there is a working-class strategy based on building a united front from below. Brian is joined by Claudia De La Cruz, co-Executive Director of The People’s Forum, popular educator, community organizer and theologian, and Dr. Gabriel Rockhill, Founding Director of the Critical Theory Workshop and Professor of Philosophy at Villanova University. Watch the NEW video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, January 12, 2022
Murdered by Capitalism: Housing Fires Kill the Poor
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the devastating residential fire over the weekend in New York City that claimed 17 lives, including 8 children. Coming on the heels of a similar deadly blaze in Philadelphia public housing that killed 4 adults and 8 children, this tragedy highlights the complete inability of the capitalist system to provide safe, dignified housing for workers. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, January 11, 2022
U.S. Capitalism Surrenders to COVID
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how the Biden administration is sending stronger and stronger signals that it is effectively surrendering to the COVID pandemic – urging the public to “learn to live with” the deadly disease that has killed well over 800,000 people in the United States alone. They also discuss high profile talks taking place between US and Russian officials, the sentencing of the killers of Ahmaud Arbery, and devastating residential fires that took place in New York City and Philadelphia; and speak with Toronto-based organizer Aminah Sheikh about recent successes in the labor movement. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, January 06, 2022
American Fascism: White Supremacy and the Far Right from the Klan to Jan. 6
Brian Becker and Dr. Gerald Horne discuss the one-year anniversary of the January 6th assault on the U.S. Capitol, encouraged and organized by Donald Trump. It was the first time since 1812 that the U.S. government was under attack on its home soil, yet the leaders of the attack have still not been prosecuted – just the soldiers. What’s happened in the year since the assault? What does it tell us about what’s coming? And how can we fight back? Brian is joined by Dr. Gerald Horne. He holds the Moores Professorship of History and African American Studies at the University of Houston and is the author of many books, including “The Color of Fascism: Lawrence Dennis, Racial Passing, and the Rise of Right-Wing Extremism in the United States,” and “The Counter-Revolution of 1776: Slave Resistance and the Origins of the United States of America.” Watch the NEW video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, January 05, 2022
Why Profit is Theft
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how wage theft is rampant across the United States -- Workers are sent to jail for theft, but under capitalism corporate executives have impunity to steal on a massive scale. They also discuss why socialists believe that in fact all wages are a form of theft. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, January 04, 2022
Fascism and the Bankruptcy of Ruling Class Liberalism
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss Donald Trump's plan to speak at a nationally televised press conference on the anniversary of the January 6 assault on Congress, Israel's massive bombing of a Syrian port city, the havoc caused by the Omicron variant, how the United States is moving aggressively toward war with Russia over Ukraine, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, December 23, 2021
Preparing for War: Industrialization and the Fascist Threat — Lessons of Soviet History, Part 3
The Soviet Union survived its tumultuous first post-revolutionary years of civil war and imperialist invasion, but found itself isolated in a hostile, capitalist-dominated world. The Soviet government embarked on an all-out campaign of industrialization and collectivization that achieved a pace of economic development unparalleled in human history. But at the same time, the menace of fascism was rising, and the leadership of the Communist Party struggled through a string of shifts and policy reversals in international politics. In the end, 27 million Soviet citizens gave their lives in World War Two to defeat the Nazi war machine. To discuss this period from the 1920s to the onset of World War II, Brian is joined by Carlos Martinez, author of “The End of the Beginning: Lessons of the Soviet Collapse,” co-founder of the No Cold War Campaign, and editor of the political analysis site Invent-The-Future.org. This is part 3 of the series “The Rise and Fall of the Soviet Union -- Lessons for Socialists.” Watch the NEW video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, December 22, 2021
Manchin is the Symptom, Capitalism is the Disease
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how Joe Manchin took his war on workers to new lows over the weekend as he announced on Fox News that he was pulling out of negotiations with the White House over the “Build Back Better” social programs. But these negotiations have long been a farce. From the beginning, Biden pursued a ridiculous strategy, praising Manchin in public instead of building pressure and offering concession after concession. Now the situation has reached an impasse that only mass struggle can break. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, December 21, 2021
Joe Manchin's War Against Workers
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how after months of talking, begging and offering concessions the Biden administration’s dead-end strategy of appeasing right wing Democrat Joe Manchin has gone up in flames. Now Manchin wants to pulls the plug on the “build back better” social programs entirely, and only a people's movement can stop him. They also discuss the victory of Gabriel Boric over his fascist opponent in the Chilean presidential election, new revelations about the scale of civilian casualties from U.S. airstrikes, the spread of the omicron variant, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, December 16, 2021
Red Star Over the Third World w/ Vijay Prashad: Lessons of Soviet History, Part 2
Russia’s October Revolution in 1917 and the rise of Soviet power reverberated across the world, from Latin America to Africa to Asia, and Middle East – that part of the world that lived under the ravages of colonialism and under-development. To discuss the impact of the Russian Revolution on the peoples of the world who lived under the yoke of colonial and domination, Brian is joined by Vijay Prashad, the Executive Director of the Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research, Chief Editor of LeftWord Books, a prolific author and the author of “Red Star Over the Third World.” This is part 2 of the series “The Rise and Fall of the Soviet Union -- Lessons for Socialists.” Watch the NEW video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, December 15, 2021
Worshiping at the Altar of Billionaires
Elon Musk is TIME magazine's Person of the Year this year, despite gaining more than $225 billion dollars over the course of the pandemic, while hundreds of thousands of Americans died. Why does the mainstream capitalist culture worship him and billionaires like him? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, December 14, 2021
Capitalism and Imperialism: A Global System of Death
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how workers are bearing the deadly brunt of the devastating tornadoes that ripped across the country. They also cover new revelations about US war crimes in Syria, a military coverup on the Jan. 6 attack, an extradition ruling against heroic journalist Julian Assange, the courageous hunger strike of women in ICE detention in Louisiana, and more. The following articles are referenced in today's episode: Tornado Left Deadly Path of Destruction up to 250 Miles Long in Kentucky, Five Other States https://www.wsj.com/articles/rescuers-search-for-those-missing-after-destructive-tornadoes-in-kentucky-illinois-11639325118 Civilian Deaths Mounted as Secret Unit Pounded ISIS https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/12/us/civilian-deaths-war-isis.html Starbucks workers win historic first union: “If we can do this here, you can do this too” https://www.liberationnews.org/starbucks-workers-win-historic-first-union-if-we-can-do-this-here-you-can-do-this-too/ Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, December 09, 2021
The Rise and Fall of the Soviet Union -- Lessons for Socialists
The Russian Revolution in 1917 brought the Bolsheviks to power. For the first time in history the working class seized and held state power. What was the experience of the Soviet Union? How did it change global politics in the 20th century? What did socialism achieve and what caused the Soviet Union to fall in 1991? In Part 1, we explore the socialist revolution that brought the Soviet Union into existence and the civil war that immediately followed. Millions died defending the new country, defeating the counter-revolution but then facing the enormous task of rebuilding a nation devastated by war. Watch the NEW video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! In the first part of this series, Brian is joined by Carlos Martinez, author of “The End of the Beginning: Lessons of the Soviet Collapse,” co-founder of the No Cold War Campaign, and editor of the political analysis site Invent-The-Future.org. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, December 08, 2021
Capitalist Vultures Cause Homelessness
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss two sickening injustices of the capitalist economy -- landlords going after the children of the tenants they target for eviction & the ultra-wealthy keeping over $10 billion more of their inheritances in 2020 thanks to the Trump estate tax cuts! Why do we live in a system where children are evicted while the extremely rich get even richer? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, December 07, 2021
Abolish the Supreme Court! Fight Back to Defend Women's Rights!
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how the ultra-right wing majority on the Supreme Court is poised to eviscerate Roe v. Wade, but a movement to fight back against this assault on women’s rights is growing and demanding that Democrats in Congress legalize abortion once and for all. They also discuss U.S. aggression stepping up against Iran, China, and Russia; the Omicron variant continuing to cause panic around the world; Michigan reeling in the aftermath of yet another mass shooting; the U.S. marking the 80th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, and more. The following articles are referenced in this episode: Supreme Court prepares to decimate abortion rights — Here’s why it’s not too late https://www.liberationnews.org/supreme-court-prepares-to-decimate-abortion-rights-heres-why-its-not-too-late/ Campaigners Warn of 'Wave After Wave of Variants' as Long as Vaccine Apartheid Remains https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/06/campaigners-warn-wave-after-wave-variants-long-vaccine-apartheid-remains China Seeks First Military Base on Africa’s Atlantic Coast, U.S. Intelligence Finds https://www.wsj.com/articles/china-seeks-first-military-base-on-africas-atlantic-coast-u-s-intelligence-finds-11638726327 Air Board Denies Key Permit for Mountain Valley Pipeline, Dealing Critical Blow to Beleaguered Fracked Gas Project https://appvoices.org/2021/12/03/air-board-denies-key-permit-for-mountain-valley-pipeline/ Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, December 02, 2021
China and Africa: The Real Story of Western Hypocrisy
Brian and Prof. Ken Hammond discuss U.S.-China relations, China’s role in Africa and the new Cold War. In a stunning display of hypocrisy, western powers are decrying China for alleged “colonialism” in Africa. What is the true nature of China’s economic and diplomatic engagement with the continent, and how does the corporate media try to twist reality? Prof. Hammond explains the vital historical context to understand the China-Africa relationship, and how the United States has Africa in the crosshairs as it pursues its new Cold War. Watch the NEW video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University, founding director of the Confucius Institute at New Mexico State University, and activist with Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, December 01, 2021
Why China Succeeded and the U.S. Failed to Beat COVID
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how the Omicron variant is causing panic in global financial markets, with huge stock sell-offs taking place worldwide. What can we learn about how different countries have handled the pandemic, and the radically different outcomes they produced? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, November 30, 2021
Brian Becker Seminar #11: Global Class Struggle, The National Question & Revolution in US (Preview)
In this November 2021 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew discuss the big picture of global class struggle and its history, the movement for justice in the U.S. where the national question is central, and how a revolution is possible in the U.S., how socialism can be built in the U.S. and how it is being built in countries like China, as well as existential crises that only socialism can solve; climate change, war, and fascism. Brian also shares some of his personal experiences as a young activist during the tumultuous period of the late 1960's. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Tue, November 30, 2021
Two Verdicts: Racist Violence & American Capitalism
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how the three men who murdered Ahmaud Arbery have been convicted of murder in a major victory for the struggle against racism, but at the same time the Rittenhouse verdict reveals a grave danger. They also discuss the emergence of the Omicron variant of COVID due to global vaccine apartheid, efforts to rig the U.S. electoral map, the historic victory of the left in the Honduran presidential election, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, November 25, 2021
U.S. Capitalism Born in Blood: From the First Thanksgiving to Today w/ Dr. Gerald Horne
Karl Marx wrote in Capital that capitalism came into the world “dripping from head to foot, from every pore, with blood and dirt.” The Thanksgiving holiday is built around an insidious and false creation myth -- that the so-called “settling” of North America was a peaceful and amicable process. But in reality, the genocidal expansion of colonialism across the continent led to unspeakable suffering and death for Indigenous peoples. What is the real story of the birth of U.S. capitalism? Dr. Gerald Horne holds the Moores Professorship of History and African American Studies at the University of Houston and the author of many books, including “The Dawning of the Apocalypse: The Roots of Slavery, White Supremacy, Settler Colonialism, and Capitalism in the Long Sixteenth Century”. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, November 24, 2021
Biden Backs Fed Chair Powell: How the Ruling Class Rules
On today's episode Walter Smolarek and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the Biden administration's announcement that Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell would be renominated for a second term. Powell, a former finance capitalist who has headed the Fed since 2018, was the Wall Street favorite for the job. What role has Powell played in the management of U.S. capitalism? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, November 23, 2021
"Justice" in America: Rittenhouse Acquitted, Racist Vigilantes Can Kill with Impunity
On today's In the News roundtable, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how the menace of racist vigilante violence received a dramatic boost by the U.S. court system with the acquittal of Kyle Rittenhouse on all charges. They also discuss how protesters took to the streets in outraged response to the verdict, the victory of pro-Revolution candidates in the Venezuelan election, the latest Jan. 6 attack court developments, demonstrations worldwide against U.S. intervention in Ethiopia, resistance to the coup in Sudan, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, November 18, 2021
Islamophobia, the Surveillance State & U.S. Wars of Aggression w/ Dr. Nazia Kazi
How does the relentless U.S. war machine sell its operations to the public? Dr. Nazia Kazi, an activist and professor of Anthropology at Stockton University, explains how the managers of the U.S. empire foment Islamophobia and other racist ideas at home as an integral part of waging war abroad. Dr. Kazi challenges theories of racism that ignore U.S. foreign policy, and discusses how Islamophobia has played a central role in justifying U.S. acts of aggression, in excusing military atrocities, and in creating a massive new surveillance apparatus at home. That surveillance has been turned on Muslim and Arab Americans, along with social movements from Occupy Wall Street to Standing Rock to Black Lives Matter. Watch the NEW video edition of “The Real Story” on BreakThrough News! Dr. Nazia Kazi is author of the book “Islamophobia, Race, and Global Politics,” which has just been republished in a second edition. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, November 17, 2021
Inflation is Class Warfare
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the steepest rise in prices in the last 30 years, which has set off alarm bells and handed politicians like Joe Manchin a convenient excuse to deepen their opposition to pro-worker social programs. Where does inflation come from in a capitalist economy? What effect does it have on the working class and on the capitalist class? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, November 16, 2021
Hidden U.S. War Crimes in Syria
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss a newly-revealed US war crime in Syria that took the lives of over 60 civilians, causing shock and outrage around the world. They also discuss the trials of Kyle Rittenhouse and the killers of Ahmaud Arbery, CIA-orchestrated efforts to destabilize Cuba, the dangerous rise of the violent far right, the social program budget being pushed to the side in favor of military spending, and more. The following articles are referenced in this episode: How the U.S. Hid an Airstrike That Killed Dozens of Civilians in Syria https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/13/us/us-airstrikes-civilian-deaths.html How a School District Got Caught in Virginia’s Political Maelstrom https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/14/us/loudoun-county-school-board-va.html Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, November 11, 2021
U.S. Empire vs. Iran: History and the Present Day
Watch the video version on BreakThrough News here: https://youtu.be/WUHHe6h8iXk What could be the final effort to resuscitate the Iran nuclear deal will begin this month with negotiators meeting in Vienna. The United States, having violated and destroyed the deal under Trump, is now pushing for new concessions from Iran. This kind of arrogance is nothing new -- it has been the defining feature of U.S. government policy towards Iran going back to the 1953 CIA-sponsored coup and through the 1979 revolution that overthrew the U.S. puppet monarchy. Brian is joined by Mohammad Marandi, an expert on American studies and postcolonial literature who teaches at the University of Tehran. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, November 09, 2021
"Uproot the System!" - Save the Planet, End Capitalism
On today's In the News roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how tens of thousands of people marched in Glasgow and all over the world last weekend, chanting “uproot the system!” and demanding the transformation of the world economy to combat the climate crisis. They also discuss developments with the social program budget, the trial of the killers of Ahmaud Arbery, and the latest on the Iran nuclear deal. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, November 04, 2021
Cuba in the Crosshairs of Imperialism -- What’s at Stake?
Since 1959, the Cuban Revolution has been a main target of the CIA and the entire U.S. government. Before the Revolution, Cuba was a de facto colony or semi-colony of the United States. Today, efforts to carry out counter-revolution are intensifying. Cuba is in the crosshairs -- what’s at stake? Listen to our inaugural episode as part of BreakThrough News! Brian is joined by Manolo De Los Santos, Founder & Co-Director of The People’s Forum and a researcher with the Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, November 03, 2021
Guilty! 100 Corporations are Responsible for 71% of Climate Change Emissions
World leaders are gathered in Glasgow, Scotland for a major United Nations conference on climate change. But beyond the false promises and hollow phrases, what will it really take to pull the planet back from the brink of total disaster? What can prevent the capitalists from killing the planet? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, November 02, 2021
Capitalism Fiddles While the Planet Burns
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the Glasgow climate summit and Biden's capitulation to the right wing on his social program budget. The Glasgow summit is underway, and yet again the U.S. government has failed to meet the challenge -- coming up with only the woefully inadequate measures contained in Biden’s social spending “framework” agreement. The following articles are referenced in this episode: The Laughing Stock of the World: Why the world pities us and fears us https://www.michaelmoore.com/p/the-laughing-stock-of-the-world Warnings of violence before Jan. 6 precipitated the Capitol riot https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/interactive/2021/warnings-jan-6-insurrection/ The Demand for Money Behind Many Police Traffic Stops https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/31/us/police-ticket-quotas-money-funding.html Why Many Police Traffic Stops Turn Deadly https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/31/us/police-traffic-stops-killings.html Before the Final Frame: When Police Missteps Create Danger https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/10/30/video/police-traffic-stops-danger-video.html Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, November 01, 2021
Brian Becker Seminar #10: "Build Back Better", Civil Disobedience, The MIC, & More (Preview)
In this October 2021 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew discuss the Biden administration's "Build Back Better" budget bill and answer a range of questions, from the efficacy of civil disobedience, to how to organize against the military industrial complex, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, October 28, 2021
The Battle for Workers’ Rights and Democracy in South Korea
On today's episode, Brian and Ju-Hyun Park discuss the rising tide of labor activism in South Korea demanding not only economic and social justice for workers, but also an expansion of democracy. Braving violent police repression, half a million workers in South Korea went on strike last week in a major show of force. The unfolding political and social struggles in South Korea will have a far-reaching impact not only for people on the Korean peninsula, but a major impact on regional politics Ju-Hyun Park is a writer and member of Nodutdol for Korean Community Development. You can check out their latest article titled “Half a Million South Korean Workers Walk Off Jobs in General Strike” on Truthout: https://truthout.org/articles/half-a-million-south-korean-workers-prepare-to-walk-off-jobs-in-general-strike/ Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 27, 2021
Why Federal Reserve Bankers Should be Arrested for Corruption
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss how the Federal Reserve has been forced to announce new ethics rules after a scandal over financial trading conducted by high-ranking officials led to the resignation of two regional bank presidents. But will this really prevent Fed officials from using their positions of power to get rich? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, October 26, 2021
Congress Decides that Pentagon Spending is #1 Priority -- Above All Else!
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how Biden is giving away more and more in backroom negotiations with right wing Democrats in Congress like Joe Manchin, imperiling the most important measures in the social program budget. They also discuss resistance to the coup in Sudan, the latest on right wing attacks on education, new revelations about human rights abuses against migrants in the custody of the U.S. government, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, October 21, 2021
Lenin on Imperialism (Part 2): The Era of Global Class War
Today's episode is the second in a multi-part series on Lenin's theory of imperialism and how his ideas apply to the modern day struggle against war and empire. Brian Becker and Walter Smolarek discuss how nearly the entire globe was divided up by the imperialist powers by the end of the 19th century as part of the expand-or-die nature of the capitalist system. The imperialists then turned to catastrophic world war as the only available means to grow their empire. But by the middle of the 20th century, it became clear that this had led to the rise of a bloc of socialist states that threatened the existence of capitalism itself. Inter-imperialist competition took a backseat as a new era of global class war began. These concepts are covered in detail in the book "Imperialism in the 21st Century: Updating Lenin's Theory a Century Later" published by Liberation Media. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 20, 2021
Secrets of the Ultra-Rich Exposed: Global Network of Tax Havens Cater to the Capitalists
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the Pandora Papers -- the massive leak of financial information exposing how the rich and powerful hide their assets in tax havens around the world. How does this institutionalized system of tax evasion function? What does this tell us about how the capitalist system works? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, October 19, 2021
Why U.S. Capitalism is a Form of Organized Crime
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the criminal lengths that capitalists in the United States will go to make a profit, from scamming working class borrowers to extorting tax payers for subsidies and so much more. We’ll also discuss the death of Colin Powell and his legacy, right wing Democrats aiming to block passage of the social spending budget, and recent instances of racist police abuse as the trial of the killers of Ahmaud Arbery opens. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, October 14, 2021
Why Taiwan could Trigger A War with China
As the U.S. government makes a series of aggressive moves, could moves by the Taiwanese government towards a declaration of independence spark a war with China? Brian and Prof. Ken Hammond also discuss the essential historical background left out by the corporate media, explaining how Taiwan was carved away from the rest of China at the conclusion of the civil war in 1949 with the sponsorship of U.S. imperialism. Brian is joined by Kenneth Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University and an activist with the organization Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 13, 2021
Labor Movement Surge: Workers Unite Against Inequality
On today's episode Prof. Richard Wolff joins the show to discuss major developments in the labor movement as workers grow increasingly assertive of their rights. Members of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees voted almost unanimously to authorize a strike that would shut down Hollywood, Kellogg’s factory workers are on strike, and workers at Nabisco recently wrapped up a successful strike action. Will this trend continue? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, October 12, 2021
This is War Against the Elderly and the Poor: What's Going on in Congress Fight
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss Indigenous People's Day and the true history of colonization and how healthcare industry capitalists are seeking to sabotage measures that would cut into their profits as they continue their war on the poor, the elderly and the sick. They also discuss how the far right has set its sights on education, pushing for bans on the teaching of the history of racism in America and on COVID safety precautions in its latest efforts to stir up baseless controversy, the death of war criminal General Ray Odierno, protests against the Line 3 pipeline, and new CIA efforts to target China. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, October 07, 2021
The Plot to Kill Julian Assange & Destroy Wikileaks
On today's episode, Brian and Lee Camp discuss the latest revelations about the CIA's attempts to take revenge on Wikileaks for exposing the secret crimes of the U.S. government. This went as far as planning to assassinate Wikileaks' founder Julian Assange, who was at that point confined to the Ecuadorian embassy in London. Now in prison, the fight to free Assange continues. They also discuss the case of Steven Donzinger, an international environmental lawyer who took on Chevron and won — but has now been sentenced to prison in a case of retaliation that has drawn global outrage. They also discuss the political right turn made by Tulsi Gabbard. Lee Camp is the host of the TV show Redacted Tonight and author of the book Bullet Points & Punch Lines. Check out his work at www.LeeCamp.com Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, October 06, 2021
Government and Landlords Declare Class War Against Tenants: Who Will Win?
On today's episode Brian and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the massive scale of the eviction crisis and the urgent need for struggle in the face of this threat. While billionaires saw their wealth dramatically expand over the course of the pandemic and the government moved swiftly to bail out the rich, working class tenants accumulated crushing levels of rent debt. Now landlords are preparing to kick millions out of their homes as the pandemic continues to rage. Brian and Prof. Wolff also discuss examples from history of tenants organizing to stand up for their right to housing -- and bring down the system that prioritizes profits over people's lives. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, October 05, 2021
Wall Street Stooges in Congress
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how the battle in Congress over the fate of major social programs to address the needs of the people and the planet continues after the House progressive caucus blocked passage of a physical infrastructure bill to counter efforts by right wing Democrats to kill the much larger budget and social infrastructure bill. Also, they discuss the latest on the pandemic as the U.S. death toll hits 700,000, efforts by the right wing to cement its political power through redistricting, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, October 04, 2021
Brian Becker Seminar #9: Socialism is Possible in the US, Resisting Imperialism, & More (Preview)
In this September 2021 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew discuss the how socialism can be achieved in the United States and how revolutions happen, how to organize against imperialist war including from within the ranks of the military, and the internal contradictions of the U.S. government that are preventing Congress from addressing the dire needs of the people. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, September 30, 2021
Lenin on Imperialism (Part 1): A Policy or a System?
Today's episode is the first in a multi-part series on Lenin's theory of imperialism and how his ideas apply to the modern day struggle against war and empire. Brian Becker and Walter Smolarek discuss Lenin's landmark work "Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism". Far from being a series of mistaken policy choices, Lenin proves that imperialism is a compulsory system under modern capitalism. These concepts are covered in detail in the book "Imperialism in the 21st Century: Updating Lenin's Theory a Century Later" published by Liberation Media. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 29, 2021
Seize Big Pharma: Nationalize and Internationalize All Medicine!
On today's episode we discuss the frantic effort by pharmaceutical corporations to keep prescription drug prices -- and their profits -- sky high. As part of the proposed social spending budget, Congress is considering a measure to negotiate hundreds of billions of dollars of savings on prescriptions covered by Medicare. This would fund major expansions to Medicaid and Medicare services, but right-wing Democrats backed by big pharma are doing everything they can to block it. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, September 28, 2021
Cutting Through the Spin: What the Showdown in Congress Means for Workers
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how trillions of dollars to address the needs of working people in the areas of education, childcare, health, housing and more are on the line as a crucial struggle unfolds in Congress and in the streets. They also discuss the Biden administration’s brutal treatment of thousands of Haitian refugees seeking asylum in Texas, the latest on the pandemic as COVID spreads virtually unchecked in large parts of the country, and more. The following articles are referenced in today's episode: The U.S.’s Long History of Mistreating Haitian Migrants https://www.newyorker.com/news/news-desk/the-uss-long-history-of-mistreating-haitian-migrants Covid Gets Redder https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/27/briefing/covid-red-states-vaccinations.html Covid’s Hidden Toll: One Million Children Who Lost Parents https://www.wsj.com/articles/covid-children-orphans-parent-deaths-million-11632675021 Supreme Court observers see trouble ahead as public approval of justices erodes https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/courts_law/supreme-court-public-opinion/2021/09/25/379b51ec-1c6c-11ec-bcb8-0cb135811007_story.html Keystroke tracking, screenshots, and facial recognition: The boss may be watching long after the pandemic ends https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2021/09/24/remote-work-from-home-surveillance/ Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, September 23, 2021
China Moves Left Under Xi Jinping: Part 2
We continue our discussion of the major changes in Chinese politics and society ushered in by President Xi Jinping. We cover the emerging "common prosperity" economic policy aimed at redistributing China's wealth, the country's key geopolitical strategy known as the Belt and Road Initiative, and how this all fits in with the Communist Party's perspective on building socialism. Brian is joined by Kenneth Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University and an activist with the organization Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 22, 2021
Addicted to War: The ABC's of U.S. Military Spending
On today's episode we discuss the military-industrial complex in the wake of the nuclear submarine deal between the United States and Australia, which sparked a diplomatic crisis with France. A new alliance between the US, Australia and the UK trashed a submarine deal France had with Australia worth tens of billions of dollars, awarding the sale instead to the United States. How does the war economy help keep U.S. capitalism afloat? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, September 21, 2021
War Criminal George W. Bush Confronted
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker and Esther Iverem discuss how George W. Bush was directly confronted at a Los Angeles speaking event by anti-war organizers including an Iraq war veteran who said that Bush was personally responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths. They also discuss how there are 126,000 fewer childcare workers today than at the start of the pandemic, and the end of the Nabisco workers strike with the approval of a new union contract. Brian and Esther are joined by Mike Prysner and Marissa Sanchez, ANSWER Coalition organizers who protested George W. Bush in Los Angeles. Mike Prysner is an Iraq war veteran. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, September 16, 2021
Covid-19: A Socialist View toward Vaccines, Public Health Policy & the Failures of Capitalism
The Coronavirus pandemic coupled with the capitalist system has caused unspeakable suffering in the United States and around the globe. Failures to adequately prepare and respond to the public health emergency led to massive unemployment, hunger, poverty and death. And now that vaccines capable of ending the pandemic are being mass produced, far right political forces are seeking to cynically mobilize people against the most basic public health measures. How should socialists react to this phenomenon? Brian is joined by by Eugene Puryear. He is the host of the podcast The Punch Out on BreakThrough News and host of the weekly live show The Freedom Side on BreakThrough News, which airs every Thursday on YouTube.com/BreakThroughNews at 3 p.m. Eastern/12 p.m. Pacific.
Wed, September 15, 2021
Grand Theft Banks: How the Government Funds Wall Street
On today's episode we discuss one of the key ways that the biggest capitalist enterprises receive huge government assistance -- quantitative easing. This policy, carried out by central banks, has been the subject of major debate in recent weeks. What is quantitative easing, and is it going away any time soon? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com.
Tue, September 14, 2021
The U.S. Left's Response to Sept. 11
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the founding of the ANSWER Coalition just 3 days after the tragic September 11 terror attacks that took the lives of nearly 3,000 people in New York City and the Washington, D.C. area. They discuss how the U.S. left reacted after September 11 and how a new mass movement came into being. The panel also covers efforts by right wing Democrats to thwart a major expansion of social programs, police brutality in Louisiana, and more.
Sat, September 11, 2021
20 Years After Sept. 11 - How the "War on Terror" Changed U.S. & Global Politics (Preview)
20 years after the September 11th terrorist attack, we reflect on the profound impacts this event had on the globe. The U.S. government manipulated the aftermath of the attacks to declare that an "axis of evil" existed -- Iraq, Iran and North Korea -- and committed itself to waging regime change wars against these nations and others. The hardline militarist policy followed by the Bush administration, known as neo-conservatism, became completely dominant in U.S. foreign policy and military circles in the years following 9/11. And in each one of these regime change wars, the United States failed to achieve its goals -- but still caused enormous death and suffering. Brian Becker is interviewed on this topic by Nicole Roussell. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, September 09, 2021
Attica Rebellion 50th Anniversary: A Massacre that changed American Politics
50 years ago today, the inmates at Attica prison in New York state staged a heroic uprising that shook the country and the world. Shortly after the assassination of legendary Black Panther leader George Jackson by prison guards at San Quentin, Attica inmates took over the prison demanding an end to the horrific conditions they were subjected to, including routine beatings and torture at the hands of guards. On September 13, 1971, authorities attacked the prison and carried out a massacre -- but the legacy of the Attica uprising continues to inspire millions today. Brian is joined by by Eugene Puryear. He is the host of the podcast The Punch Out on BreakThrough News and host of the weekly live show The Freedom Side on BreakThrough News, which airs every Thursday on youtube.com/breakthroughnews at 8 p.m. Eastern/5 p.m. Pacific. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 08, 2021
Socialism or Capitalism: Millions of Unemployed Workers Lose their Benefits
Brian and Prof. Wolff discuss the state of unemployment in America. Politicians and the media talk constantly about the post-COVID economic recovery, but last month’s weak jobs report suggests that workers are still in the midst of crisis. And despite this dire situation, the unemployment relief programs passed at the onset of the pandemic have now expired. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, September 07, 2021
Supreme Court Upholds Abortion Ban: We Will Fight Back!
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how a Texas law has destroyed abortion rights for 16 million women and girls and is being used by right-wing political forces as a model for the rest of the country -- but a new fightback movement is taking shape. They also discuss the end of key pandemic relief programs, the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, important victories won by the struggle against the racist murders of Elijah McClain and Ahmaud Arbery, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Fri, September 03, 2021
Brian Becker Seminar #8: Afghanistan & The Region — What Comes Next? (Preview)
In this August 2021 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew discuss the U.S. empire's reorientation after its defeat in Afghanistan and how the new Afghan government may take shape, including relations with neighboring countries like China and Iran. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, September 02, 2021
China Turns Left
As China emerges as a leading global economic power, the Communist Party led by Xi Jinping is taking increasingly aggressive measures to combat inequality and ensure that the entire population benefits in "common prosperity". Brian is joined by Kenneth Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University and an activist with the organization Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, September 01, 2021
Time to Abolish the Supreme Court? Why “Private Property” Should Not Be Supreme
Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the Supreme Court ruling overturning the federal eviction moratorium and putting 11 million people at risk of being thrown onto the streets in the middle of a pandemic. The rationale used by the court to issue this cruel edict is the essence of capitalism -- protect property owners’ “right to exclude” at all costs. Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, August 31, 2021
U.S. Massacres Entire Civilian Family in Drone Strike as it Exits Afghanistan
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the latest in Afghanistan, including the U.S. drone missile strike in Afghanistan that wiped out a family of 10 people, all civilians, including several young children. They also discuss the devastation caused by Hurricane Ida and the urgent struggle to prevent 11 million evictions in the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling last week striking down the federal moratorium. The following news articles and documents were referenced in this episode: Evacuations From Kabul Wind Down as U.S. Prepares to Pull Last Troops https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/28/world/asia/afghanistan-evacuations.html Is the U.S.-installed Afghan government doomed? https://www.liberationnews.org/is-the-u-s-installed-afghan-government-doomed/ Report Portrays a Broken C.I.A. Devoted to a Failed Approach https://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/10/world/senate-torture-report-shows-cia-infighting-over-interrogation-program.html Senate Intelligence Committee report on CIA torture https://www.intelligence.senate.gov/publications/committee-study-central-intelligence-agencys-detention-and-interrogation-program Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 26, 2021
US Strategic Plans for Afghanistan under the Taliban
Today's episode focuses on the long term plans being developed by the United States in light of the rapid collapse of their client government in Afghanistan. How do the war makers plan to recover from this blow to the prestige of U.S. empire? Brian is joined by Ann Wright, a retired United States Army colonel and former U.S. State Department official in Afghanistan, who resigned in protest of the invasion of Iraq and became an anti-war activist. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 25, 2021
Hunger Stalks America as Capitalists Cash in: Food, Farming and Capitalism (Part 3)
Brian & Prof. Wolff continue a series on agriculture under capitalism with a focus on the hunger crisis in the United States. How is it possible that in the richest country ever tens of millions are deprived of something as basic as food? Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, August 24, 2021
The Taliban offered to surrender in November 2001 - the US rejected their offer
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the United States' frantic evacuation from Afghanistan and the questions swirling about the future of the country’s government -- and critical history left out of the corporate media narrative. They also discuss how crucial pandemic relief measures are imperiled, the strike waged by Nabisco workers, and vital efforts to vaccinate the population from COVID & the major obstacles they are encountering. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 19, 2021
A Turning Point? Afghanistan and the Future of the U.S. Empire
Will the chaotic end of the Afghanistan War deal a lasting blow to US imperialism? We cover essential historical & international context with Dr. Gerald Horne, professor at the University of Houston & author of many books, including “The Dawning of the Apocalypse: The Roots of Slavery, White Supremacy, Settler Colonialism, and Capitalism in the Long Sixteenth Century.” Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 18, 2021
The Factory Farm Takeover of Agriculture: Food, Farming and Capitalism (Part 2)
Brian and Prof. Wolff continue a multi-part series on agriculture under capitalism. This week, they focus on the evolution of the system of factory farming and the effect it has on workers and nature. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, August 17, 2021
More than 71,000 Civilians Were Killed in the U.S. War in Afghanistan
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the end to the 20-year U.S. occupation of Afghanistan. The government of Afghanistan has collapsed without a fight, in the face of a lightning offensive by the Taliban following the announcement that US forces were leaving Afghanistan. Joe Biden went on national television yesterday to defend his decision to end the war. Biden acknowledged, in essence, that the US had been defeated and retaining military forces in Afghanistan would never change the outcome. The panel also discusses the devastating earthquake in Haiti, the new court ruling on the federal eviction moratorium, the latest on the rise of the far right, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 12, 2021
Why the Pentagon Lost in Afghanistan
Today's episode covers the rapid fall of key cities in Afghanistan to the Taliban & the consequences of 20 years of brutal U.S. occupation of the country. Brian & guest Mike Prysner also discuss how socialists struggle against imperialist war & organize enlisted soldiers to resist. Brian is joined by Mike Prysner, an anti-war activist, producer of The Empire Files & co-host of the podcast "Eyes Left". Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 11, 2021
Marxist Economics 101: Food, Farming and Capitalism (Part 1)
Brian and Prof. Wolff begin a multi-part series on agriculture under capitalism. Under this system, the most basic necessity of life -- food -- is turned into a source of profit dominated by a smaller and smaller number of agribusiness corporations. Environmental destruction and enormous waste are built into the capitalist agriculture system while hundreds of millions around the globe still go hungry. Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Richard and Brian also discuss two important books on the topic in this episode: "Creating an Ecological Society: Toward a Revolutionary Transformation" by Fred Magdoff and "Animal, Vegetable, Junk" by Mark Bittman. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, August 10, 2021
Covid & Capitalism: Millions Of Families In The U.S. Facing Imminent Eviction
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the battle over the fate of millions of people in the United States facing eviction as the movement for housing rights gains momentum. Meanwhile, the new COVID wave worsens, the Taliban seized a series of key cities in Afghanistan, and more. We'll also hear from special guest Eugene Puryear about his recent trip to Ghana to attend a historic congress launching a new socialist organization with major support from the country's youth. Eugene Puryear is a host for BreakThrough News. Be sure to check out his daily podcast: The Punch Out. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, August 05, 2021
Capitalist Media Monopolies Are the Enemy of Democracy
We continue a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism, focusing today on the corporate-owned media. The majority of the media in the United States is owned by five giant corporations -- What does this tell us about the so-called “free press”? Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, August 04, 2021
People's Struggle Forces Biden to Extend Eviction Moratorium
Today's episode covers the struggle to stop the impending massive wave of evictions. After public outrage and protest, including a sit-in outside Congress led by Rep. Cori Bush, Biden relented and extended the eviction moratorium. Brian is joined by Lee Camp, host of the TV show Redacted Tonight and author of the book Bullet Points & Punch Lines. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, August 03, 2021
Fightback! 8 Million families facing eviction and foreclosures
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how the Democratic Party leadership in Congress and the Biden administration are failing to act in the face of impending mass evictions. They also discuss the grassroots movement against evictions -- including the sit-in outside Congress by Rep. Cori Bush, the latest from the Olympics, the surge in Covid infections, Peru’s new left wing government, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Sat, July 31, 2021
China's Foreign Policy: Complete Series + Bonus Content (1949-Today)
As the U.S. war machine ramps up aggression towards China, understanding the history of the country's engagement with the world is more crucial than ever. This multi-part series takes an in-depth look at the history of China's foreign policy since the 1949 revolution brought the Communist Party to power. This series is now seamlessly combined into this one episode file, with bonus content including immersive archival recordings and original music. Brian is joined by Kenneth Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University and an activist with the organization Pivot to Peace. Part 1: 1949-1959 - Starts at 0:00:00 Part 2: 1959-1965 - Starts at 0:57:18 Part 3: 1965-1975 - Starts at 1:50:40 Part 4: 1975-1989 - Starts at 2:38:15 Part 5: 1989-1995 - Starts at 3:40:09 Part 6: 1995-2010 - Starts at 4:02:07 Part 7: 2011-2021 - Starts at 5:00:52 Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, July 29, 2021
China's Foreign Policy Part 7, 2011-2021: US "Pivots to Asia" and Xi Jinping Takes the Reins
Today's episode is the seventh in a multi-part series that takes an in-depth look at the history of China's foreign policy. During the Obama administration, US imperialism adopts the "Pivot to Asia" strategy and makes China its top target. At the same time, Xi Jinping becomes China's president and navigates China's rise. Brian is joined by Kenneth Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University and an activist with the organization Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 28, 2021
As Millions face a wave of evictions: Marx’s Theory of Rent
Today we continue a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism — a method for understanding and changing the world used by many of the great revolutionaries of modern history. Brian and Prof. Wolff discuss rent, evictions and social programs under capitalism. With the CDC’s eviction moratorium set to expire, millions are now facing homelessness because they cannot pay rent. And why do governments controlled by the ultra-rich sometimes decide to institute measures that alleviate the suffering of workers? Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, July 27, 2021
The People of the U.S. Oppose the Blockade of Cuba
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how people in Cuba and their supporters around the world are stepping up mobilizations in defense of the country’s independence as the U.S. government announces more sanctions. They also discuss the legacy of civil rights legend Bob Moses, the renewed spread of COVID across the country, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Mon, July 26, 2021
Brian Becker Seminar #7: The CIA, The Media, And The Cuban Revolution (Preview)
In this July 2021 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew discuss the role of the CIA in media, the lies in the mainstream media, and the role of alternative media. Brian discusses the current moment in Cuba and the history of the revolution, as well as stories from the fight for the release of the Cuban Five. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest! Links mentioned in the show: BreakThrough News just did a long interview with Eugene Puryear about what's going on in Ethiopia: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDTmNZFaoLU Cuban President Diaz Canel’s speech from July 17: http://www.cubadiplomatica.cu/en/articulo/speech-delivered-miguel-mario-diaz-canel-bermudez-president-republic-cuba-act-revolutionary Carl Bernstein Rolling Stone article about journalists on CIA payroll: http://danwismar.com/uploads/Bernstein%20-%20CIA%20and%20Media.htm
Thu, July 22, 2021
China's Foreign Policy Part 6, 1995-2001: Hong Kong Returns to China and China Joins the WTO
Today's episode is the sixth in a multi-part series that takes an in-depth look at the history of China's foreign policy. In 1997, China achieves another milestone in its long struggle to unify the country and end foreign domination -- the return of the city of Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty. Meanwhile, China's economic growth accelerates as the country plays a bigger and bigger role in the global economy. In 2001, this culminates with China's entry into the World Trade Organization Brian is joined by Kenneth Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University and an activist with the organization Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 21, 2021
Big Oil's War Against the World!
Today we continue a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism — a method for understanding and changing the world used by many of the great revolutionaries of modern history. Brian and Prof. Wolff discuss how oil is essential to the functioning of the global capitalist economy. They cover how capitalists have ferociously competed over the years to control the world's supply of oil at the cost of countless lives. Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, July 20, 2021
Cuba: How the CIA Manipulates Social Media and All Media
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how the people of Cuba demonstrated in support of their revolution and government over the weekend, new environmental disasters brought about by climate change, efforts to prohibit the teaching of the history of racism in America, a new global spying scandal involving an Israeli company, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, July 15, 2021
China's Foreign Policy Part 5, 1989-1995: Navigating to Global Economic Integration after Tiananmen
Today's episode is the fifth in a multi-part series that takes an in-depth look at the history of China's foreign policy. In the aftermath of the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, China found itself internationally isolated and subjected to harsh new economic sanctions. Then in 1992, Deng Xiaoping launches the "Southern Tour", culminating in the dramatic deepening of market reforms. This leads to a massive influx of foreign investment as China becomes deeply integrated into the global economy. Brian is joined by Kenneth Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University and an activist with the organization Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 14, 2021
Soaring Rents Lead to New Housing Crisis
Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff continue a discussion on the Marxist understanding of the housing market, today focusing on the system of rent and the current crisis resulting from soaring rents. Today's episode is also part of a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism — a method for understanding and changing the world used by many of the great revolutionaries of modern history. Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, July 13, 2021
U.S. Strangles Cuban Economy & Seeks Counter-Revolution
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how the U.S. government and corporate media are hoping for regime change in Cuba, but the Cuban people and government are mobilizing to defend their revolution in spite of the severe hardships caused by the U.S. blockade. They also discuss the political crisis in Haiti and the danger of U.S. intervention, and more. This episode includes a special interview with Cathy Rojas, the socialist candidate for mayor of New York City. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, July 08, 2021
China's Foreign Policy Part 4, 1975-1989: Reaping the Whirlwind
Today's episode is the fourth in a multi-part series that takes an in-depth look at the history of China's foreign policy. At a time when U.S. imperialism seemed to be in complete and utter decline following its defeat in Southeast Asia, and with revolution spreading from Africa to Iran to Nicaragua, the United States enters into a de-facto alliance with China and facilitates the integration of China into the world economy. Brian and Prof. Kenneth Hammond also discuss China's invasion of Vietnam in 1979, Gorbachev taking power in the Soviet Union and introducing far reaching reforms, the arms race initiated by the U.S. that brings the world to the brink of nuclear war, the counter-revolutionary wave that sweeps the governments of Eastern Europe, and how China was confronted with the prospect of a counter-revolution in a 7-week long standoff in Tiananmen Square that ends with the suppression of that movement. Brian is joined by Kenneth Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University and an activist with the organization Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, July 07, 2021
The Capitalist Roots of the Florida Condo Collapse Tragedy
Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the Marxist understanding of the real estate market and how the speculative nature of this capitalist market leads to tragedies like the deadly Miami condo collapse. They also discuss the concept and experience of social housing as an alternative to private capitalist housing. Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, July 06, 2021
Climate Change Activists Given Long Prison Sentences While Big Oil Makes Super-Profits
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how activists trying to defend the environment are being sent to prison for many years and Indigenous communities and frontline water protectors are being targeted with vicious repression. They also discuss voting rights, the indictment of the Trump Organization, the death of war criminal Donald Rumsfeld, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, July 01, 2021
Gerald Horne on Juneteenth: The Revolutionary Class Struggle in America
On today's episode, we discuss the hidden history of the revolutionary class struggle that brought down the system of slavery in America, an accomplishment celebrated by the Juneteenth holiday. The military defeat of the confederacy -- accomplished thanks to the heroic intervention of hundreds of thousands of Black soldiers in the war -- ushered in a new era that sent shockwaves around the world. They also discuss the 100th anniversary of the foundation of the Communist Party of China and how the party led the transformation of the country into the rising power of today. Brian is joined by Dr. Gerald Horne. He holds the Moores Professorship of History and African American Studies at the University of Houston and is the author of many books. His most recent book is “The Bittersweet Science: Racism, Racketeering, and the Political Economy of Boxing,” and he is the author of “The Counter-Revolution of 1776: Slave Resistance and the Origins of the United States of America.” Dr. Horne is also the author of The Dawning of the Apocalypse: The Roots of Slavery, White Supremacy, Settler Colonialism, and Capitalism in the Long Sixteenth Century. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, July 01, 2021
Brian Becker Seminar #6: The Communist Party Of China, How To Organize A Union, & More (Preview)
In this June 2021 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew discuss the Communist Party of China and other communist parties in power, the union movement today and how to organize with unions, a behind the scenes look at the struggle to end the Vietnam War, nationalism and national liberation, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Wed, June 30, 2021
Why the Bourgeoisie Loves the Gig Economy
Today we continue a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism — a method for understanding and changing the world used by many of the great revolutionaries of modern history. We discuss the Marxist understanding of the so-called gig economy. More and more workers are forced to make ends meet driving for Lyft or Uber, delivering food or an ever expanding number of irregular jobs. But far before smartphones and the internet, capitalism has long depended on precarious labor. Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, June 29, 2021
A Socialist Mayor in New York State's Second Largest City?
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the election of a socialist in the Democratic primary for mayor of Buffalo, New York, a series of dramatic reversals by the Biden administration over infrastructure, injustices in the prison system, the sentencing of convicted murderer Derek Chauvin, U.S. airstrikes attacking Iraq and Syria, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 24, 2021
How a COVID Conspiracy Theory Fuels U.S. War Drive Against China
Over the past month, the U.S. media and the Biden administration have sought to give credence to the conspiracy theory first advanced by Trump that the COVID-19 virus emerged from the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China. Last month, Biden breathed new life into this notion when he ordered intelligence agencies to redouble their efforts to determine whether the virus came from a lab and to report back to him in August. Brian is joined by KJ Noh. He’s a peace activist and scholar on the geopolitics of Asia, and he’s a frequent contributor to Counterpunch and Dissident Voice. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 23, 2021
Stock Markets: Making the Rich Richer for 400 Years
Today we continue a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism — a method for understanding and changing the world used by many of the great revolutionaries of modern history. We discuss the Marxist understanding of the role played by stock markets in capitalism. How has the function of stock markets evolved over the years, and how do they contribute to today’s exploding wealth inequality? Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, June 22, 2021
Billionaire Capitalism Makes a Killing During COVID-19
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss growing inequality, the Juneteenth holiday, the New York City mayoral race, Joe Manchin's war on the working class, far right calls for a coup in Peru, the Biden-Putin summit, and more. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Thu, June 17, 2021
The Pentagon Papers 50 Years Later: America's Most Famous Whistleblower Still Fighting Militarism
This week marks the 50th anniversary of the publication by The New York Times of excerpts of the Pentagon Papers — 7,000 pages of top-secret documents. These documents proved that the government of the United States had been lying to the people of this country for decades about a war that eventually ended with a U.S. withdrawal -- but only after millions of Vietnamese had been killed, 58,000 U.S. troops were killed with hundreds of thousands more suffered from physical and psychological injuries. Brian is joined by Daniel Ellsberg. He is one of the most important whistleblowers in modern American history and the author of The Doomsday Machine: Confessions of a Nuclear War Planner. Daniel Ellsberg is also the author of Secrets: A Memoir of Vietnam and the Pentagon Papers. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 16, 2021
The State as a Tool of Class Oppression
Brian and Prof. Wolff continue a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism — a method for understanding and changing the world used by many of the great revolutionaries of modern history. Today, they discuss the Marxist theory of the state. Mainstream politicians talk about small government and big government, but never tell the truth about who the government serves. Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Tue, June 15, 2021
Biden Appeals for Imperialist United Front at G7
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the G7 summit and its leaders' hypocritical rhetoric about human rights and democracy, the fight against police brutality and the suppression of the movement against racism, the latest attacks on Ilhan Omar, and more.
Sat, June 12, 2021
Brian Becker Seminar #5: Palestine, China, Nuclear winter, and more (Preview)
In this May 2021 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew discuss the new era in the struggle for the liberation of Palestine and what it means for the region, U.S. imperialist plots to dismember China, the alarming danger of nuclear war, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, June 10, 2021
China's Foreign Policy Part 3, 1965-1975: When Enemies Become "Friends"
Today's episode is the third in a multi-part series that takes an in-depth look at the history of China's foreign policy. We discuss how Chinese foreign policy shifted after the Cultural Revolution. This culminated with China and the U.S. under the Nixon administration forging a new alliance that reshaped global politics. Brian is joined by Kenneth Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University and an activist with the organization Pivot to Peace. Please make an urgently-needed contribution to The Socialist Program by joining our Patreon community at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram. We rely on the generous support of our listeners to keep bringing you consistent, high-quality shows. All Patreon donors of $5 a month or more are invited to join the monthly Q&A seminar with Brian.
Wed, June 09, 2021
Karl Marx's Unique Theory of Social Classes
Brian and Prof. Wolff continue a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism — a method for understanding and changing the world used by many of the great revolutionaries of modern history. Today, they discuss Karl Marx's theory of classes. Politicians of all stripes love to talk endlessly about their devotion to the middle class, but what does that even mean? What are the unique insights from Karl Marx about the real class structure of society? Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com
Tue, June 08, 2021
How the People Blocked the Israeli Apartheid Ship
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem and Walter Smolarek discuss an exciting new victory for the Palestine solidarity movement, a crackdown on journalists that has gained momentum with successive administrations, how Democratic Senator Joe Manchin has vowed to help Republicans defeat a key piece of voting rights legislation introduced in Congress, and more.
Thu, June 03, 2021
Israeli Apartheid Politics Takes a Bizarre Turn
Will Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu be replaced by an even more fanatical racist? A last-minute coalition deal appears to have ended the 12-year-long reign of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu just days after he presided over an 11-day massacre of Palestinians. But the man set to replace him is even more right wing. Meanwhile, the resistance of the Palestinian people is intensifying and global support for their cause is growing. Brian is joined by Miko Peled. He’s an activist and the author of “The General’s Son: Journey of an Israeli in Palestine,” and of "Injustice: The Story of the Holy Land Foundation Five.”
Wed, June 02, 2021
Were Marx & Engels Environmentalists?
Brian and Prof. Wolff continue a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism — a method for understanding and changing the world used by many of the great revolutionaries of modern history. Today, they discuss what Marxism has to say about the environment. Why and how is capitalism destroying the planet? Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com
Tue, June 01, 2021
From Tulsa to Today: Racism & Repression Breeds Resistance & Rebellion
Today we discuss the 100-year anniversary of the Tulsa Massacre, the one-year anniversary of key events in the uprising following the murder of George Floyd, and the historic breakthroughs made by the people's movements of Chile.
Mon, May 31, 2021
Brian Becker Seminar #4: Biden's Pivot to Asia, the Chauvin verdict, and more (Preview)
In this April 2021 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew analyzed the Biden administration's plans to withdraw from Afghanistan while increasing aggression toward China, the Chauvin verdict won by the historic uprising against racism, and more. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Fri, May 28, 2021
Brian Becker Seminar #3: January 6 assault, US policy toward China, and more (Preview)
In this February 2021 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew analyzed the January 6th fascist insurrection and the state of U.S. policy toward China. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, May 27, 2021
The Real Story: BDS And The Battle For Free Speech
Journalist Abby Martin, the Partnership for Civil Justice Fund (PCJF), and CAIR won a major victory for free speech and the right to protest in solidarity with Palestine in a May 24 federal court ruling. A judge ruled that Georgia’s law against the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movements was a violation of constitutionally guaranteed free speech rights. PCJF Executive Director Mara Verheyden-Hilliard and host of The Empire Files Abby Martin join the show to discuss what this means for the BDS movement and the state of civil liberties in the US.
Wed, May 26, 2021
Capitalism in Crisis: The Dictatorship of the Banks
Brian and Prof. Wolff continue a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism — a method for understanding and changing the world used by many of the great revolutionaries of modern history. Today, they discuss the role of finance and the big banks. Why does Wall Street reign supreme in the capitalist system? Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com
Tue, May 25, 2021
In the News: From the USA to Gaza: The New Global Movement Against Racism & Repression
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the one year anniversary of the murder of George Floyd, the Palestinian people's continuing resistance after 11 days of massacres by Israeli forces, and how the mass movements that developed around the issues of racist police violence and the oppression of Palestinians have changed the world.
Thu, May 20, 2021
An Empire in Decline: Unmasking U.S. Strategies to Dominate the Globe
On today's episode, Brian and Dr. Gerald Horne talk about the dramatic changes brought about by the evolution of the role played by China in the world economy and world politics. As the United States' power declines, the managers of U.S. empire are scrambling to come up with new approaches to maintain their dominant position around the globe. Dr. Gerald Horne holds the Moores Professorship of History and African American Studies at the University of Houston and the author of many books, including “The Dawning of the Apocalypse: The Roots of Slavery, White Supremacy, Settler Colonialism, and Capitalism in the Long Sixteenth Century.” He is also the author of “The Bittersweet Science: Racism, Racketeering, and the Political Economy of Boxing.”
Wed, May 19, 2021
Karl Marx's Theory of Exploitation
Brian and Prof. Wolff continue a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism — a method for understanding and changing the world used by many of the great revolutionaries of modern history. Today, they discuss the theory of surplus value. Why do Marxists believe that anyone who works for a wage is being stolen from by their boss? Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com
Tue, May 18, 2021
In the News: Israeli War Crimes Paid for by the USA
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss Palestinians' general strike today as fierce resistance continues to the increasingly brutal Israeli attack, the possibility that the right-wing Supreme Court will eviscerate the right of women to control their own bodies, the criminal injustice system and another extreme and odious form of racism used to justify police murder, and a left wing victory in the recent Chilean elections.
Fri, May 14, 2021
Palestine Resists: A Conversation with Abby Martin and Mike Prysner of The Empire Files
The Israeli government is waging war against the Palestinian people and attempting to carry out mass ethnic cleansing of the city of Jerusalem as part of ongoing historic efforts to evict the Palestinian people from their homelands. This has led to a historic level of resistance in Jerusalem, Gaza, the West Bank and in Palestinian communities within the current Israeli borders. Brian is joined by Abby Martin and Mike Prysner of The Empire Files. The Empire Files' full-length documentary movie “Gaza Fights for Freedom” is now available for free online. Check out their work at TheEmpireFiles.tv
Wed, May 12, 2021
Capitalism in Crisis: Marx & Lenin on Monopoly Capitalism
Brian and Prof. Wolff begin a series of discussions about the basics of Marxism — a method for understanding and changing the world used by many of the great revolutionaries of modern history. Today, they discuss what a monopoly is, and how there is a natural tendency to monopoly under capitalism. Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com
Tue, May 11, 2021
In the News: Stand with Palestine as Palestine Stands Together
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the assault being waged by the Israeli military on Palestinians following intense fascist attacks and ethnic cleansing efforts directed against Palestinian residents of Jerusalem by ultra-right settlers. And in domestic news, the Biden administration’s economic program continues to draw attacks from right-wing media, the Republican Party, and key parts of the Democratic Party in the U.S. Senate.
Thu, May 06, 2021
The Real Story: Understanding China's Foreign Policy -- 1959-1965
Today's episode is the second in a multi-part series that takes an in-depth look at the history of China's foreign policy. We discuss how U.S. imperialist pressure on China and the Soviet Union lead to a breakdown in relations between the two socialist giants, Soviet efforts at peaceful coexistence with the United States, the China-India war of 1962, the Soviet-U.S. 1963 nuclear test ban treaty, the U.S. invasion of Vietnam in 1964, and the CIA-organized anti-communist genocide in Indonesia. Brian is joined by Kenneth Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University and an activist with the organization Pivot to Peace.
Wed, May 05, 2021
Capitalism in Crisis: When "Intellectual Property" Kills the Sick and Poor
Brian and Prof. Wolff discuss the deadly consequences of the U.S. government's stubborn refusal so far to waive patents preventing developing countries from producing their own Coronavirus vaccines -- all to protect the profits of the big pharmaceutical corporations. Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com
Tue, May 04, 2021
In the News: Socialist tactics and Biden's economic program
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss where the Biden administration is headed politically and why. In his address to a joint session of Congress last Thursday, Biden appears to have signaled a significant turn towards a program aimed at providing substantial benefits to working people.
Thu, April 29, 2021
The Real Story: Understanding China's Foreign Policy -- 1949-1959
Today's episode is the first in a multi-part series take an in-depth look at the history of China's foreign policy. As the U.S. war machine ramps up aggression towards China, understanding the history of the country's engagement with the world is more crucial than ever. In this section, we discuss the early phase of foreign policy pursued by the People's Republic of China, characterized by fervent anti-colonialism and a complex alliance with the Soviet Union. Brian is joined by Kenneth Hammond, a Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University and an activist with the organization Pivot to Peace.
Wed, April 28, 2021
Capitalism in Crisis: Declining U.S. Capitalism Declares Economic War Against Germany
Brian and Prof. Wolff discuss the latest efforts by the Biden administration to put severe economic pressure on Germany to back out of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, an infrastructure project that would deliver Russian gas to the European market competing with big U.S. oil and gas monopolies. Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com
Tue, April 27, 2021
In the News: Vaccine Imperialism
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss how the U.S. government is hoarding vaccine doses and prolonging the suffering of people all around the world in defense of big pharma’s profits. They also discuss tensions between Russia and NATO over Ukraine, a new court ruling in Los Angeles on the rights of the homeless, and more.
Thu, April 22, 2021
The Real Story: The U.S. & Israeli War Against Iran
The fate of the JCPOA Iran nuclear agreement hangs in the balance. The United States broke the agreement during the Trump administration and reimposed sanctions that caused great suffering to Iranians, but negotiations are now underway for the United States to rejoin. Meanwhile, Israel is upping its aggression against Iran. Brian is joined by Professor Mohammad Marandi, an expert on American studies and postcolonial literature who teaches at the University of Tehran.
Wed, April 21, 2021
Capitalism in Crisis: Addiction as a Business Model -- Capitalism Kills!
Brian and Prof. Wolff discuss how the tobacco industry built an extremely profitable business model based on addiction, and what they're doing to try to keep it going. Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com
Wed, April 21, 2021
In the News: GUILTY! The Power of the People!!
On today's "In the News" roundtable, Brian Becker, Esther Iverem Nicole Roussell and Walter Smolarek discuss the historic people's victory in the trial of Derek Chauvin, which resulted in guilty verdicts on all three counts thanks to the mass movement that swept the country and the world demanding justice for George Floyd. They also discuss laws being considered across the country to repress protest, environmental issues ahead of Earth Day, and more.
Sat, April 17, 2021
Brian Becker Seminar #2: A Socialist View of Fascism, Past & Present (Preview)
In this January 2021 patrons-only seminar, Brian and the crew talked about the January 6th fascist insurrection, delving into the details and the historical context of fascism in the United States. Check out the preview now and subscribe at patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to hear the rest!
Thu, April 15, 2021
Is the U.S. Actually Leaving Afghanistan? Part 2 of our Afghanistan and U.S. Imperialism series
The Biden administration has announced that the United States will be withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan by September 11 of this year, and that this withdrawal will take place regardless of conditions on the battlefield. What's behind this move? Is the U.S. empire's longest war really coming to an end? Continuing last week's episode about the history of U.S. intervention in Afghanistan, Brian talks with Sohrob Aslamy, a doctoral student at Syracuse University in the Department of Geography and the Environment.
Wed, April 14, 2021
Capitalism in Crisis: The Fraud: The Global Corporate Tax Debate
Brian and Prof. Wolff discuss the push for a global minimum tax on corporations. What prompted this move -- which is supported by the Biden administration -- and what does it say about how global capitalism works? Richard Wolff is the co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work and the author of many books, the latest being “The Sickness is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself”. You can check out his work at rdwolff.com
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