Episode 462: Mad Cow Disease (w/ Special Guest: Alexander Aviña)
Sep 18, 2026 · 1h 13m
Summary
The hosts discuss the new Ben Shapiro film *Infidel* and the Daily Wire’s controversial marketing, contrasting it with historical depictions of Muslim characters in cinema. They analyze the global economic fallout from the Iran conflict, including the Houthi attack on Saudi pipelines, soaring fuel prices, and the Colorado River water crisis. The conversation also covers the 25th anniversary of 9/11, the rise of AI anxiety as a distraction from climate change, and the political implications of Trump’s recent foreign policy decisions.
Topics discussed
Discussion on Ben Shapiro's 'Infidel' and campus fantasies
Tlatelolco massacre and personal political stance
Hollywood depictions of Muslims and Arab leaders
Leaf blowers, carbon footprints, and suburban hypocrisy
Movie mix-ups and transition to current events
Global oil crisis and diesel shortages
Iraqi resistance and Saudi Arabia's role
Trump's diplomacy and the Houthis' military capability
Colorado River water crisis and desalination
Economic degrowth and fossil fuel dependence
Venezuela oil potential and carbon emission drops
Short-term capitalism vs long-term catastrophe
AI CEO warnings and the profit motive
AI in education and whistleblower revelations
US economic paradox and potential central planning
Online culture, 9/11 memes, and historical context
Inflation, interest rates, and consumer squeeze
Wealth concentration and the national debt
Healthcare cuts and rural hospital closures
Neoliberalism, individualism, and political blame
Legal controversies and political absurdities
Trump's week, Joe Rogan, and Mitch McConnell
Democratic options and the Iran MOU
Midterm election outlook and cultural shifts
Space weapons and social banditry
Closing remarks and podcast plugs
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