• Don't talk about politics or religion? Hold my communal wine.
    Sep 17 2025

    Explore the complex and often contentious relationship between religion and politics in this thought-provoking video.

    I delve into the ways in which religious beliefs and practices intersect with political ideologies, examining the implications for individuals, communities, and societies as a whole. From the role of faith in shaping public policy to the influence of political power on religious expression, I consider the multifaceted dynamics at play when religion meets politics.

    Join me as I navigate this fascinating and sometimes fraught terrain, seeking to understand the opportunities and challenges that arise when these two powerful forces converge.

    Whether you're interested in the history of religious-political interactions, the current state of affairs, or the potential future implications, this video aims to inform, educate, and inspire reflection on a topic that is both deeply personal and profoundly public.

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    48 mins
  • Trump's military posse is illegal, what you need to know
    Sep 8 2025

    In this episode of Critical Culture, Travis breaks down the controversial use of the National Guard in American cities. Is it a crime-fighting solution or a dangerous step toward tyranny? We dive deep into the history of standing armies, the Posse Comitatus Act, and how this new 'posse' could be a dangerous 'slippery slope.' Join us as we explore the constitutional concerns and historical precedents and discuss what you can do to protect your rights.

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    21 mins
  • What YOU NEED to do to prevent MASS shootings
    Aug 28 2025

    In this episode of Critical Culture, we address the recent tragedy at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis, discussing the impact of the mass shooting. While we acknowledge that preventing all tragedies is impossible, we must focus on what can be changed. My thoughts are with everyone affected by the recent crime.

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    21 mins
  • Dirty Deeds of Democracy
    Aug 22 2025

    In this episode of Critical Culture, we dive deep into the 'Dirty Deeds of Democracy'. We explore how political tactics, from gerrymandering to media manipulation, have transformed politics into a war. We discuss the moves made by figures like Gavin Newsom and the dangers of disillusionment in America's political landscape.

    Join us as we analyze how the media and political firebrands shape our nation's discourse, and whether these actions truly meet the moment or pose a threat to our government.

    #PoliticalCommentary #Gerrymandering #GavinNewsom #MediaManipulation #USPolitics #CriticalCulture

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    13 mins
  • Critical Culture - RIP and Long Live Public Media
    Aug 16 2025

    In this episode of Critical Culture, we delve into the future of public media in the United States. Prompted by recent funding challenges for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, we move beyond a simple history lesson to explore how we can build a new, sustainable structure for public media in the digital age.

    We discuss the current public-private partnership model and the potential for a "flywheel" system, where advertising and commercially viable content can help fund projects that serve the public good.

    We also look at the role of local radio and television stations, the importance of non-commercial content, and how a new progressive era could learn from past movements to shape the future of media for the common good.

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    31 mins
  • Job Security is a Myth - Build a Career
    Aug 6 2025

    In this episode of Critical Culture, we dive into the ever-evolving landscape of career development.

    This episode covers:

    Why job security is a myth and how to build a career in a changing job market.

    The benefits of diversifying your skills versus specializing in one area. Ideally doing a good mix of both throughout your career.

    The new landscape of employment search with AI in the middle between applicants and companies.

    How certifications are important but don't hold much value without some experience.

    High-demand skills for the current moment, with a special focus on Python and AWS.

    Whether you're new to your career or looking to retool your skills, this podcast offers valuable insights to help you navigate your professional path.

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    33 mins
  • Identity Politics and Politics as Identity
    Jul 28 2025

    Welcome to Critical Culture!

    Today's episode examines both identity politics and the phenomenon of politics as a form of identity.

    In the well-known concept of identity politics, political or social activity is undertaken by or on behalf of a group sharing a particular identity (such as ethnicity, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability), but also examines how individuals anchor their own identities within the political landscape.

    The discussion highlights how personal experiences and group affiliations shape political interests and how, in turn, politics can influence one's sense of self. It further explores the potential for identity politics to foster both solidarity and division, and how it can be utilized as a tool for political mobilization and social change.

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    23 mins
  • AI Wars - Feeding the Beast
    Jul 14 2025

    Welcome to Critical Culture, Episode 12: AI Wars - Feeding the Beast

    There are three things AI needs, compute, energy and data. In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the acquisition of data used to train AI. Why some people take everything they can get, some are looking to protect their livelihood, and some are charting a better way to feed the beast.

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    19 mins