This week Eric welcomes author and columnist Paul Street, and radical envrionmentalist and political activist Kevin Hester to CounterPunch Radio. First, Eric chats with America's leading ultra-sectarian ideological criminal Paul Street about why he's having second thoughts about Bernie Sanders, and why the ruling elites might be as well. Eric and Paul discuss the Sanders campaign, what it means for grassroots activism, and whether or not it's a dead end for those seeking radical change. They also touch on The Donald, the trumpen proletariat, and the danger of a fascist state in a post-President Trump scenario.

In the second part of the show Eric connects with Kevin Hester out on his isolated island in New Zealand to discuss the looming climate catastrophe and the unraveling of the biosphere. Eric and Kevin discuss the bleak, dystopian future of abrupt climate change, the latest report from James Hansen, and why everyone should be conscious of what is to come. Also, they examine the connection between climate change, the environment, and imperialism. Not exactly the rosiest picture, but an important reality.

Musical Interludes:

I See Hawks in LA - Raised by Hippies
Gospel Beach - California Steamer
Freedom: Sove Peyi Mwen
Beachwood Sparks - Talk About Lonesome

This week Eric welcomes to the show author and activist Alexander Reid Ross to discuss the history and contemporary landscape of fascism in Europe and the US. Eric and Alexander discuss his latest book Against the Fascist Creep, going into detail about the long and sordid history of fascism from its earliest manifestations in pre-WWI Europe, to its modern form after Mussolini, to the current trends in fascism today. And then, of course, the obligatory "Is Trump a Fascist?" portion of the conversation gets quite interesting. Does Alexander Reid Ross make a case for fedualism? Tune in to CounterPunch Radio this week to find out!

Interlude: Billy Bragg & Wilco - "All You Fascists"

This week Eric chats with lawyer, social media strategist, and podcaster Alice Backer about the political situation in Haiti today, the insidious role of the Clintons, and the historical importance of the island nation as the leading edge of anti-colonial resistance. Eric and Alice explore the electoral drama unfolding in Haiti, and what it means for the future of the country. Of course, no discussion of the issue would be complete without an accounting of Hillary and Bill's criminal exploitation of the island over the last 25 years, up to and including today. The conversation also explores just why Haiti has been repeatedly subjected to the kind of repression and subjugation it has these last two centuries. All this and so much more in this wide-ranging discussion.

Musical interlude: Boukman Eksperyans - Jou Nou Revolte

This week Eric sits down with author Douglas Lain to discuss his new book After the Saucers Landed, and a veritable menagerie of mostly related topics including identity and subjectivity, authenticity, the overlap between politics and art, and so much more. Science fiction nerds and avant-garde art geeks rejoice! There's much to salivate over in this wide-ranging discussion where Philip K. Dick is elevated to the status of demigod, and Soviet Suprematism and Constructivism are discussed pretentiously *AND* unpretentiously. Also, both bearded and unbearded philosophers may hold hands in prayer as reference is made to everyone from Descartes to Derrida, from Barthes to Baudrillard. So much more to tell, just listen already!
Be sure to also check out Douglas Lain's podcast Zero Squared.

Musical interlude:

Parliament - Mothership Connection (Star Child)

This week Eric discusses threats to the planet and human civilization with regular CounterPunch contributors Robert Hunziker and John LaForge. First, Eric welcomes back to the show environmental journalist Robert Hunziker to discuss climate change, the latest research from the Arctic, and ways of reorienting our thinking to tackle these immense problems. The discussion touches on the record warmth of January and February, the melting Arctic and Antarctic ice, and the interconnected nature of the global ecosystem. Eric and Robert also discuss lifestyle modifications, new technology, and the importance of these issues to millennials as they have families of their own.

In the second part of the show Eric sits down with John LaForge to talk about Fukushima five years later, and the active threat of nuclear power to the environment, and life on this planet. They talk the conspiracy of silence over Fukushima, the "ticking time-bomb" at Indian Point (New York), and the political and economic obstacles to shutting down the nuclear facilities. John and Eric also discuss potential solutions, and the state of the anti-nuke movement.

Musical Interludes:

Gospel Beach - "California Steamer"
Ali Farka Toure - "Soya"
Chumbawamba - "Enough is Enough"

This week Eric welcomes two great guests to the program. First, Eric sits down with the inimitable George Galloway to talk war, betrayal, and the Empire's ceaseless adventures in regime change. They discuss the culpability of the US, UK, and Europe in the death and destruction in the Middle East, the use of terrorism as a potent weapon of war, as well as the refugee crisis and the rise of racist and fascist sentiment in Europe. George also briefly touches on his campaign for mayor of London against both the Conservative and Labour candidates.

In the second part of the show Eric welcomes writer and political analyst Daniel Patrick Welch to the show. Eric and Dan go back and forth on racism, white supremacy and the necolonial attitudes bubbling to the surface in light of the refugee crisis. With references ranging from "Blazing Saddles" to "Seinfeld," they manage to have a little fun while exploring an issue that is of the utmost importance to contemporary politics and activism.

Intro & Outtro: David Vest - "Freight Train Rollin'"
Interlude: Billy Bragg & Wilco - "All You Fascists"

This week Eric sits down with philosopher, filmmaker, and author of the new book Exposing Lies of the Empire, Andre Vltchek, for a colorful discussion on culture and politics, imperialism, and the reality of the Global South. The conversation opens with an exploration of the role of art and literature in shaping politics and ideology, and how that has increasingly become lost in an ever more commodified and compartmentalized political culture. Eric and Andre then discuss the nature of contemporary imperialism and how it manifests itself in today's world. They go into many examples of Global South resistance to the Empire, why it's important to support independent peoples and nations, and the necessity of maintaining an international perspective without falling into the trap of neocolonial arrogance so often exhibited by the "first world left." These and many other topics in this week's CounterPunch Radio.

Intro and Outtro: David Vest - "Freight Train Rollin'"
Interlude: Wire - "I Am the Fly"

This week Eric sits down with journalist Diana Johnstone, author of the new book Queen of Chaos: The Misadventures of Hillary Clinton available from CounterPunch Books. Eric and Diana discuss the myriad ways in which Hiillary Clinton has made herself into the embodiment of the military-industrial complex and the Empire, including her unabashed warmongering, shameless love affairs with Saudi Arabia and Israel, and continued belligerence toward Russia. Johnstone argues that Clinton represents an imminent threat to not just the United States, but the entire world, and that her worldview is as insidious as it is incompatible with peace. The conversation touches on Yugoslavia, Libya, and Honduras in order to illustrate Clinton's cynicism, pathological lying, and complete disregard for human suffering. All this and much more in this wide-ranging interview.

Intro and outtro: David Vest - Freight Train Rollin'
Interlude: The Mekons - Last Night on Earth

This week Eric sits down with political analyst and writer Pascal Robert to discuss author Ta-Nehisi Coates' recent attacks on Bernie Sanders and what they tell us both about Coates and the presidential election. Eric and Pascal discuss the issues of race and class, and why interrogating those issues is critical to examining Coates' recent writings, as well his individual social position in relation to the power structure. The second half of the show is an in depth dialogue about a variety of issues related to the 2016 campaign including whether Bernie Sanders actually has a chance to win, the outcome the political and financial establishment are pushing for, Hillary's scandal-plagued campaign, and any potential unexpected developments between now and primary season. All this and much more on CounterPunch Radio this week.

Intro and outtro: David Vest - Freight Train Rollin'
Interlude: Marcel Cartier - I'm a Socialist

This week Eric sits down with Steven Donziger, the US spokesman and legal adviser for the Ecuadorian communities suing Chevron over its gross environmental pollution since the 1960s. The case has made international headlines as it is the first of its kind to see indigenous communities winning a judgment against an oil company for environmental degradation. Eric and Steven discuss the specifics of the case and the ways in which Chevron has attempted to use legal maneuvering and trickery to avoid paying a massive settlement to those affected. The conversation also touches on the parallels between this case and others, as well as the long-term effects of the damage caused by Texaco/Chevron. All this and much more in this important episode of CounterPunch Radio.

Intro and outtro by David Vest.

Eric is back from Venezuela this week and oh, the places he's gone, the stories he'll tell. Eric welcomes his fellow traveler, activist and political analyst Caleb Maupin, to discuss their experiences in Venezuela during the all-important legislative elections. Eric and Caleb talk about their impressions of the country and the economic crisis afflicting it, as well as recounting their various conversations with ordinary Venezuelans. The discussion touches on everything from geopolitics to the mentality of Venezuelans on Election Day, examining the role of the economic and psychological war waged by the US against the Bolivarian government. Eric and Caleb also provide their analysis of the future for the country with a right wing National Assembly, the potential for open conflict in Venezuela and throughout South America, and much much more in this wide-ranging conversation.

Intro and outtro - "Freight Train Rollin'" by David Vest
Musical Interlude - "Work Like Chavez" by Rebel Diaz

This week Eric welcomes to CounterPunch Radio author, political analyst, and regular CounterPunch contributor John Wight to discuss recent developments in Syria, and the regional geopolitics that inform all events in the Middle East. Eric and John go in depth on the downing of the Russian jet by Turkey, and what that means for the ongoing war in Syria. They address a wide range of issues from the interplay between Wahhabi extremism and the Muslim Brotherhood, to the political development, and regional significance, of Egypt. The conversation also touches on the economic motivations of the interested parties, the role of Israel, Obama vs the Neocons, British politics as related to the war on Syria, and much much more. This far-ranging interview is yet another example of the kind of thing you just don't find outside CounterPunch.

Intro/Outtro: "Freight Train Rollin'" by David Vest
Interlude: "Where Were You" by The Mekons

This week Eric welcomes back to the show political analyst and human rights activist Ajamu Baraka to discuss Turkey's recent downing of a Russian jet in Syria. Eric and Ajamu examine the details of the incident and the political fallout from it. They discuss how Russia might respond and how this changes (if at all) the ongoing war in Syria, including Russia's active involvement. Ajamu also explains his reading on the larger political and geopolitical issues stemming from the downing of the jet. All this and much much more this week on CounterPunch Radio.

Intro/Outtro: "Freight Train Rollin'" by David Vest
Interlude: "I'm a Socialist" by Marcel Cartier

This week, Eric sits down with two amazing and inspiring teachers tirelessly working to defend public education from the neoliberal assault being waged against it. First, Eric welcomes to the program Jia Lee, an educator, activist and candidate for President of UFT (United Federation of Teachers) representing the Movement of Rank and File Educators (MORE). Eric and Jia discuss why she became a conscientious objector to standardized testing, the importance of democratizing and radicalizing the teachers union, and the ways in which public schools have been attacked, undermined, and corporatized.

In the second part of the show, Eric sits down with educator and advocate Mercedes Schneider who is the author of two important books: A Chronicle of Echoes: Who's Who in the Implosion of American Education and Common Core Dilemma: Who Owns Our Schools?. Eric and Mercedes examine the rise of charter schools, the de-professionalization of teaching, the insidious effect of Teach for America on the profession, and much more.

Musical interlude: "Chicago Teacher" by Rebel Diaz
Intro and Outtro: "Freight Train Rollin'" by David Vest

This week Eric welcomes author and journalist Madhusree Mukerjee to the program to discuss her groundbreaking 2010 book Churchill's Secret War: The British Empire and the Ravaging of India During World War II. Madhusree discusses her personal and ideological motivations for writing the book, as well as exploring what the Bengal famine and British imperial policy say about the nature of imperialism and colonialism in India and throughout the world. Eric and Madhusree also bring the issues forward our time by probing how the same agricultural policies, engendered by capitalism and profit, are helping to exacerbate poverty, dispossession, and environmental degradation today. Eric and Madhusree don't shy away from debating the legacies of Gandhi and Subhas Chandra Bose, and the role of India and the emerging non-Western powers today.

In the second part of the show, Eric is joined by Danny Haiphong, a Boston-based political activist and columnist for Black Agenda Report, to discuss his recent piece on self-determination and political movement-building in the US and the Western world. The conversation touches on current trends, as well as historical exemplars such as the Black Panther Party. Eric and Danny also examine what revolutionary movement-building requires, and what it will look like given the current political and economic climate. All this and much more on this week's CounterPunch Radio.

Musical Interludes: "Jara cafe te more te bose acho" by Unknown & "Sove Peyi Mwen" by Freedom

Intro and Outtro: "Freight Train Rollin'" by David Vest

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This week, Eric welcomes two brilliant guests to the show. First, Eric speaks with Don DeBar, independent broadcaster and Senior Producer at Community Public Radio (CPRmetro.org). Eric and Don discuss the state of the independent media, and how it has been rapidly transformed in recent years. Don presents an inside account of the corporate takeover and purge of Pacifica Radio and its NYC flagship station WBAI, pulling back the curtain on how Pacifica operates, and why some of its good work has come to be overshadowed by the bad, especially when it comes to issues of war and peace. Eric and Don also touch on the war in Libya and how that exposed much of the media for being aligned with the US-NATO war agenda.

In the second half of the show, Eric welcomes Laura Carlsen, Director of the Americas Program at the Center for International Policy to the program. Eric and Laura discuss the 2014 Ayotzinapa massacre of student teachers in Mexico, and the obvious government cover-up of the incident. Laura explains what happened in late September 2014, what the circumstances were leading up to the massacre, and the inconsistencies in the initial government investigation. Eric and Laura also discuss neoliberalism and privatization, and how this massacre should be understood as part of a broader political process ongoing in Mexico with direct US involvement.

Musical interlude from Boukman Eksperyans - "Jou Nou Revolte"
Intro & Outtro from David Vest

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This week, Eric sits down with CounterPunch Editor and political kidney-puncher Jeffrey St. Clair who spins yarns about the early days of CounterPunch and the inimitable Alexander Cockburn, who himself makes a special appearance in this week's episode in the role of angry thundercloud. Eric and Jeffrey discuss the quietus of journalism and, consequently, the importance of CounterPunch upholding the tradition and legacy of oppositional reporting and analysis. Jeff explains how Bill Clinton and the corporate Democrats served to consolidate the programs and policies of Reagan and the neocons, and how dear comrade Bernie, aka Chairman Sanders, is not exactly a leftist breaking from the party, but more like the party breaking left for a fleeting moment. Eric and Jeff discuss the environment, Gang Green, and the collapse of social movements, while also waxing poetic on the importance of culture in politics. Oh, and also, CounterPunch asks for money. Give us your money.

One of us, one of us! Gooble gobble. Gooble gobble.

Intro and Outtro from David Vest. Musical interlude from The Mekons.

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After a short absence, Eric is back this week with author, labor journalist, and all around enemy of the bosses David Macaray. Grab your hammers and sickles boys and girls as Eric and David discuss the state of labor unions, the importance of militancy and political education, international solidarity, and many other topics to get your pinko commie juices flowing. They debate whether organized labor should try to resuscitate the Democratic Party, or simply poke its corpse with an agitator's stick. The conversation touches on the role of teachers in the labor movement, internationalism and labor history, as well as what independent organizing by unions would actually look like today.

From the halls of Richard Trumka to the shores of the LAUSD, this week's CounterPunch Radio leaves no stone unturned...except for those being turned by scab labor...they can go to hell.

Intro and outtro by David Vest. Musical interlude from Billy Bragg.

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This week, Eric has an in depth conversation with economist Michael Hudson, author of the new book Killing the Host: How Financial Parasites and Debt Bondage Destroy the Global Economy. Eric and Prof. Hudson discuss the evolution of finance capital from its humble parasitical beginnings to the comprehensive global network of economic tapeworms and barnacles that it is today. They examine neoliberal terrorism, how debt is used as a weapon, and the disastrous effects of the financialization of the real economy. Hudson outlines the relationship between the parasites and their bloodsucking policies of austerity, providing insight using the example of Latvia, where he witnessed first hand the smash-and-grab nature of such prescriptions. Plus, Eric and Michael touch on Obama as Wall Street errand boy, the importance of left economic organizing, and much much more.

Musical interlude from the exciting new band GospelbeacH, and intro and outtro from David Vest.

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This week Eric and his guests discuss Ukraine and Syria, two war zones on the front lines of imperialism today.

First, it's protests and clashes and fascists (oh my!) as Eric sits down with international relations and security analyst Mark Sleboda to examine the latest developments in the "New Ukraine." Eric and Mark talk about the violence on the streets of Kiev and what it means for the future, while plumbing the icy depths of the coldly pragmatic mind of Putin as they discuss Russia's strategy in Donbass. As they say in Game of Thrones, "Winter is coming," and with no gas, no money, and a disgruntled military and Nazi paramilitaries, it could prove to be a very cold, and very long, winter in Ukraine.

In the second half of the show, Eric welcomes to the program activist Jay Tharappel, fresh off his visit to Syria. Jay describes daily life in the country, his charity work on behalf of the Syrian people and, like Blanche DuBois on the road to Damascus, the kindness of strangers. Eric and Jay discuss the realities of war, left imperialist gamblers, and the curious case of the migrant crisis.

All this and more on Episode 18 of CounterPunch Radio. Intro and outtro music provided by David Vest, interlude by Billy Bragg & Wilco.

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This week Eric and his guests mark the ten year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina by reflecting on its lasting impact and the political lessons it has taught.

First, Eric chats with CounterPunch contributor and Editor-in-Chief of News Junkie Post Gilbert Mercier about his experiences in New Orleans in the immediate aftermath of the storm. Gilbert recounts his personal stories, what he witnessed in the city, and the political context within which Katrina should be understood. Eric and Gilbert discuss the sick logic of disaster capitalism, and the brutality and rot of Empire.

Next, Eric welcomes author and filmmaker Daniel Wolff to the program to discuss his work with Jonathan Demme on the film "I'm Carolyn Parker," as well as his book "The Fight for Home: How (Parts of) New Orleans Came Back." Daniel tells about the making of the film, the human side of the Katrina story, and the attempt to shape a narrative of both tragedy and hope. Eric and Daniel also examine New Orleans as a template for destruction and ehtnic cleansing from the inner city to the Middle East and everywhere in between.

Finally, Eric sits down with author and activist Jay Arena to discuss the current political struggle in New Orleans, the pernicious impact of corporate funded NGOs, and the importance of radical grassroots activism. Jay is the author of the important 2012 book "Driven from New Orleans: How Nonprofits Betray Public Housing and Promote Privatization." Eric and Jay outline the causes of the political crisis, the corporatization and privatization of the city, and much more.

As always, intro and outtro from David Vest. Musical interludes from Billie Holiday & Louis Armstrong, and Dr. John.

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This week Eric welcomes political commentators Margaret Kimberley and Sukant Chandan to the program. First, Eric chats with Margaret Kimberley, editor and columnist at Black Agenda Report about the growth of #BlackLivesMatter, the controversy surrounding the confrontation with Bernie Sanders and its aftermath, and the importance of the movement's dissociation from the Democratic Party. They also touch on the situation in Ferguson and the necessity of incorporating a critique of imperialism into the #BlackLivesMatter movement.

In the second part of the show, Eric sits down with political commentator and organizer Sukant Chandan to deconstruct the situation in Libya, as well as the general state of imperialism in Africa and Asia: What are its tactics? How have they shifted? How do we move forward in opposing it? Eric and Sukant take on the issues of African "migrants," the spread of death squads, and the importance of creating unity among imperialism's victims around the world.

Intro and outtro provided by David Vest. Musical interlude by Ali Farka Touré.

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This week, CounterPunch Radio host Eric Draitser welcomes two more outstanding guests to the program. In the first half of the episode, Eric chats with award winning syndicated political cartoonist and author Ted Rall about the controversy surrounding his recent firing by the LA Times on bogus charges made by the LAPD. Eric and Ted discuss the circumstances of his firing, the LAPD's lies, and the stupidity and arrogance of LA Times management in siding with the cops. Eric and Ted examine the larger context of this story, including how it is an indictment of the corporate media which, once again, reveals itself as a servant of power. Ted also talks about his brand new book about NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden, scheduled for release in a few days.

In the second part of the episode, Eric welcomes environmental journalist and regular CounterPunch contributor Robert Hunziker to the program to discuss climate change and the precarious state of our planet. Robert and Eric talk about the state of the arctic, the terrifying implications of the loss of arctic sea ice and methane release, and much more. Robert also dispells some of the myths perpetrated by the climate change skeptics, and provides his perspective on Fukushima, the global water crisis, and a number of other issues. All this and more in this wide-ranging interview. As always, intro and outro music from David Vest, with an interlude from Billy Bragg and Wilco.

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This week, Eric Draitser chats with two brilliant guests about war and peace, imperialism, and the state of a very troubled world. First, Eric sits down with renowned author and peace activist David Swanson to discuss George Clooney, Africa, and the white man's military-industrial burden. Eric and David highlight the hypocrisy of celebrity activism, neo-colonial superiority complexes, and the unmistakable barbarism that passes for presidential leadership in the US. They also touch on the moribund anti-war movement, the rotten smell of the Democratic Party, and why we should continue to organize.

The second half of the program features London-based journalist and political analyst Hafsa Kara-Mustapha talking about North Africa and some of the recent developments there. Eric and Hafsa go in depth about Algeria, its strategic and geopolitical importance, and the terrorism it has faced for more than two decades. They examine the situation now, and what it tells us about the future of the region. They also touch on the ongoing tragedy of Libya, the deceptive coverage of the situation in Tunisia, and much much more. Episode 14 of CounterPunch Radio features, as always, intro and outtro music from David Vest, and interlude music by The Mekons.

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This week, CounterPunch Radio host Eric Draitser sits down with renowned Cuban-American attorney José Pertierra to discuss the latest developments in Latin America, especially the warming of relations between the US and Cuba. Pertierra draws on his decades of experience working in international cases dealing with both Cuba and Venezuela, providing insight into issues ranging from the opening of embassies in Washington and Havana, to the geopolitical imperatives driving the shift in US policy. José and Eric contrast the US attitude toward Cuba and Venezuela, and discuss the political and strategic reasons for this. They also touch on the state of the Cuban economy, the mindset of young Cubans today, the importance of Hugo Chavez and his legacy, and the role of China and other non-western countries in the region.
All this and much more in Episode 13 of CounterPunch Radio featuring, as always, intro and outtro music from the Dr. of the Blues, the man with a PhD in Boogie Woogie, David Vest, and musical interlude from Rebel Diaz.

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This week, CounterPunch Radio host Eric Draitser goes one on one with award winning filmmaker and journalist, the inimitable John Pilger. Eric and John discuss the role of the corporate media in manufacturing narratives, its relationship to capitalism and commodification, and the importance of independent media to pierce through the propaganda. Pilger provides his blistering critique of the especially insidious liberal media whose misinformation and disinformation is so critical to the ruling class. Eric and John touch on an array of other topics including Greece, Ukraine, and debt as a neocolonial weapon. All this and much more on a slightly abbreviated Episode 12 of CounterPunch Radio, featuring as always intro and outtro music from the Dr. of the Blues, the man with a PhD in Boogie Woogie, David Vest.

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This week, CounterPunch Radio host Eric Draitser chats with two excellent guests about independent media, and the importance of critical analysis outside of the mainstream establishment. The first half of the show features a great conversation with CounterPunch Managing Editor Joshua Frank, who talks about the launch of the new and improved CounterPunch website while waxing poetic on the importance of family, from an independent media perspective, of course. Eric and Joshua examine some of the key issues on which CounterPunch stands apart from the crowd, including the left progressive paeans and campfire kumbayas for Bernie Sanders, and the state of the organized left in America.

In the second half of the show Eric is joined by Mickey Huff, Director of Project Censored. Eric and Mickey discuss dominant narratives, the writing of history, and the mis-education of the educational system. They touch on everything from the Orwellian phenomenon of groupthink and its predominance in our political culture to the use of the term "conspiracy theory" as a pejorative term and a weapon of political and intellectual marginalization. All this and much more on Episode 11 of CounterPunch Radio, featuring intro and outtro music provided by the Dr. of the Blues, the man with a PhD in Boogie Woogie, David Vest, and interlude by Chumbawamba.

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This week, CounterPunch Radio host Eric Draitser speaks with author Ron Jacobs, whose new book Daydream Sunset: The 60s Counterculture in the 70s is available from CounterPunch. Eric and Ron discuss many of the important themes of the book, including the role of music and culture in reflecting the evolution of the counterculture, and of American culture broadly, during this period. They examine how issues of class, race, and identity took their respective places in politics and society during the 70s, as well as the role of the Vietnam War in galvanizing various forms of countercultural protest and expression. Eric and Ron also juxtapose the politics of the younger generation and that of the 60s and 70s, and how the experiences of today's youth are both related to, and distinct from, those of the counterculture of the previous generation. All this and much more in Episode 10 which also includes intro and outtro music provided by the Dr. of the Blues, the man with a PhD in Boogie Woogie, David Vest, and interlude by I See Hawks in LA.

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This week, CounterPunch Radio host Eric Draitser sits down with two important guests to discuss all things Syria. The first part of the show is an in depth discussion with Beirut-based political analyst and commentator Sharmine Narwani. Eric and Sharmine examine the latest developments in the war in Syria with particular attention to the battles along the Syria-Lebanon border, as well as the role of Turkey and other regional players. They also touch on the ongoing conflict in Iraq and the way in which the US continues to play a double-game when it comes to Baghdad and the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS).

The second part of the show features an oddly congested Eric Draitser in conversation with Syrian-Australian political activist Reme Sakr speaking from Syria. Sakr provides her insight into the collective psyche and daily life of ordinary Syrians after more than four years of war. She explains some of the hardships they face, as well as the nuances of how Syrians actually view this conflict, their country, and its institutions. Don't miss this important episode, which also include intro and outtro music provided by the Dr. of the Blues, the man with a PhD in Boogie Woogie, David Vest, and interlude by The Mekons.