The Socialist Program with Brian Becker

The Socialist Program with Brian Becker

By The Socialist Program

News and views about the world for those who want to change it.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

German Militarism is Back. Why That's Bad for Everyone w/ Prof. Richard Wolff

The Socialist Program with Brian BeckerMar 19, 2025
00:00
31:20
Trump Threatens Chinese Students, Negotiations in Gaza & Listener Q's: Is a General Strike Possible? [Preview]

Trump Threatens Chinese Students, Negotiations in Gaza & Listener Q's: Is a General Strike Possible? [Preview]

The Trump Administration is demanding the revocation of visas for all Chinese students. The courts challenge Trump’s tariffs. Is a ceasefire in Gaza coming? Can a general strike happen in the US? Brian and Layan take listener questions and discuss these topics 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 https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content, and help keep this show on the air.

May 31, 202512:12
Why Trump Is Targeting Europe w/ Prof. Richard Wolff
May 28, 202537:32
Netanyahu Declares Intent to Reoccupy Gaza While US Media Downplays Genocide [Preview]

Netanyahu Declares Intent to Reoccupy Gaza While US Media Downplays Genocide [Preview]

Congressman Randy Fine calls for Gaza’s nuclear annihilation, the Trump administration tries to bar international students from going to Harvard, Trump threatens even more tariffs, NATO leader calls for an even stronger NATO, 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, and help keep this show on the air.

May 24, 202512:02
Q&A: What Project Esther Means for Democratic Rights, and the Socialist Approach to Building Unity in 2025

Q&A: What Project Esther Means for Democratic Rights, and the Socialist Approach to Building Unity in 2025

College graduation ceremonies are turning into hotbeds of protest against the complicity of university administrations and the U.S. government in suppressing dissent on college campuses. Project 2025 outlined the plan to repress and suppress pro-Palestinian protest as part of their larger project to crush democracy inside the United States. 

Brian Becker and Layan Fuleihan field questions from listeners on these topics and more in this episode.

Have your own question for the show? Send us a voice memo on Telegram @TheSocProgram or leave a voicemail at +13028034804 and you might hear your question on air!

Join the The Socialist Program community at www.patreon.com/thesocialistprogram to get exclusive content and help keep this show on the air.

May 22, 202546:48
Trump Bashes ‘Interventionists,’ But Wants To Take Over Gaza [Preview]

Trump Bashes ‘Interventionists,’ But Wants To Take Over Gaza [Preview]

Trump went to the Middle East this week, securing trillions in investment commitments that will line the pockets of the capitalists but do nothing to solve the dire crises in the United States. He also publicly denounced U.S. intervention in the Middle East, but then declared his intention to turn Gaza into a US-controlled “freedom zone.” Brian and Layan discuss Trump's Middle East trip, the dangerous chaos at Newark airport, 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, and help keep this show on the air.


May 17, 202512:52
Q&A: The Reality of AI, Trump’s Middle East Trip & Socialist Organizing Tactics
May 15, 202501:11:17
Trump’s Deal With Yemen, New Iran Talks, China Tariffs, and more [Preview]

Trump’s Deal With Yemen, New Iran Talks, China Tariffs, and more [Preview]

U.S. officials announced that they will begin distributing aid in Gaza, with or without a ceasefire. Donald Trump declared an end to US strikes on Yemen, and plans to hold new talks with Iran. What are the implications for the people in Gaza and the entire region?


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.

May 10, 202511:26
Asian Nations Announce Plans to Fight Trump’s Trade War

Asian Nations Announce Plans to Fight Trump’s Trade War

A new world order is emerging as the old one declines. A wide swath of countries in Asia—including China, Indonesia, and U.S.-occupied South Korea and Japan—announced a joint project to build up Asian trade infrastructure and reduce Western dependence. Brian Becker and Professor Richard Wolff discuss this comprehensive plan as a response to Trump’s tariffs and trade war.


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.

May 07, 202531:56
Why Is Trump Trashing The World Order That The U.S. Created? [Preview]

Why Is Trump Trashing The World Order That The U.S. Created? [Preview]

The Trump White House has issued another executive order announcing their intention to deploy the U.S. military against the people of the United States. Donald Trump is hell bent on building a new political system inside the United States and across the world.


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.


May 03, 202511:02
China is Ready for Trump’s Trade War

China is Ready for Trump’s Trade War

China doesn’t need U.S. energy or farm imports, several officials announced this week, deflating the Trump Administration’s aggressive trade war. Brian Becker and Professor Richard Wolff discuss the long use of tariffs for manipulation and bullying by the U.S. and why it’s different this time.


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.

Apr 30, 202528:07
Trump Faces Setbacks On Tariffs, Student Deportations, And Ukraine [Preview]

Trump Faces Setbacks On Tariffs, Student Deportations, And Ukraine [Preview]

Trump had to retreat big this week, and Brian and Layan discuss all of it. The administration is backing off of tariffs, Trump is furious over Ukraine negotiations, and Musk took a huge step back from DOGE amid Tesla’s profits tanking. 

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.

Apr 26, 202511:02
Trump’s Trade War: U.S. Empire Is In Free Fall w/ Prof. Richard Wolff

Trump’s Trade War: U.S. Empire Is In Free Fall w/ Prof. Richard Wolff

Trump’s trade war is causing stock market chaos and may trigger a ‘capital war’ – or even a military war – and seems to be an act of desperation in the face of a declining U.S. empire. Brian Becker and Professor Richard Wolff discuss this rapidly shifting global economy, and what may come next.


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.

Apr 23, 202531:53
The US Oligarchy Can Be Defeated – But Not By The Democrats [Preview]

The US Oligarchy Can Be Defeated – But Not By The Democrats [Preview]

Brian Becker and Layan Fuleihan break down Trump’s doubling down on deportations – including potential plans to deport U.S. citizens, Rubio’s signal of a possible pivot away from the war in Ukraine, new developments in the Gaza genocide, and how socialists should relate to the new wave of the anti-Trump movement.


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.

Apr 19, 202512:07
Trade War Will Be a ‘Colossal Blunder’ For U.S. w/ Prof. Richard Wolff

Trade War Will Be a ‘Colossal Blunder’ For U.S. w/ Prof. Richard Wolff

Trump's trade war against China is escalating, but so far it seems to have only facilitated a growing political and economic isolation of the United States. Brian Becker and Prof. Richard Wolff discuss the real motives behind Trump’s seemingly chaotic tariff declarations, including how Greenland factors in, and what may lie ahead. 


Brian and Prof. Wolff also discuss Harvard’s refusal to cave to Trump’s threats to pull federal funding, and the wider role of elite universities 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.


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.

Apr 16, 202530:39
Trump Hints At Shift On Gaza, Witch-Hunt Against Students In the US Grows, Millions Face Deportation

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.

Apr 12, 202511:59
Explosive Trade War with China: What Are Trump’s Real Goals?

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.




Apr 10, 202554:56
Stock Market Chaos Amid Trump’s Billionaire Family Feud w/ Prof. Richard Wolff

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.


Apr 09, 202530:16
Wisconsin says NO to Musk & Billionaires, Is Protest Effective?, Palestine, Iran, China, & More [Preview]

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.

Apr 03, 202514:51
Billionaires Salivate Over Plan to Privatize the Post Office, w/ Prof. Richard Wolff

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.


Apr 02, 202530:20
A Do-or-Die Moment for Free Speech in the US. Time to Stand Up [Preview]

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.

Mar 29, 202512:31
US Wages Economic War on China, But It Won’t Stop Its Rise w/ Ben Norton

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.


Mar 27, 202501:01:51
Musk's Real Plan is to Loot Social Security w/ Prof. Richard Wolff

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.

Mar 26, 202533:12
Israel Invades Gaza, Trump Bombs Yemen & Threatens Iran Is Next

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.


Mar 20, 202558:05
German Militarism is Back. Why That's Bad for Everyone w/ Prof. Richard Wolff

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.

Mar 19, 202531:20
Trump and Putin Discuss Ukraine Peace Deal [Preview]

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.

Mar 18, 202511:13
'First They Came for the Palestinian': Arrest of Mahmoud Khalil Sparks Nationwide Movement

'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.

Mar 13, 202540:26
Why the Stock Market Plunged

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.

Mar 12, 202532:15
Trump Arrests Palestine Campus Organizer, But Millions Say, “No Way”

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. Read and sign the new open letter here: https://www.change.org/p/stand-with-our-students-protect-free-speech

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.

Mar 10, 202522:13
Trump’s War Against Students, Musk and Rubio Argue, Trump Threatens Russia Sanctions [Preview]

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.


Mar 08, 202510:51
Trump and Democrats Preside Over an Empire in Crisis

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.

Mar 06, 202550:59
Trumpcession Is Coming

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.

Mar 05, 202537:18
Netanyahu and Trump Sabotage Ceasefire, Push for Gaza Takeover

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.

Mar 04, 202510:59
Trump-Musk Class War Strategy is Starting to Backfire w/ Eugene Puryear

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.


Feb 27, 202501:10:24
What the German Elections Show

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.

Feb 26, 202537:23
Trump's Drastic Cuts: Federal Workforce, Services & Billionaires' Taxes

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.

Feb 19, 202532:46
Trump’s Rhetoric Encourages Israeli Fantasies of Gaza Takeover [Preview]

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.

Feb 15, 202513:37
Trump’s Plans: The Big Picture [Preview]

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.

Feb 13, 202509:12
A Billionaire Dictatorship?

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.

Feb 12, 202534:02
Seizing Gaza: Can Trump Do What Israel Failed to Do? w/ Miko Peled, Son of Israeli General

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.


Feb 08, 202551:23
Unelected Billionaire Elon Musk Takes Even More Power in Treasury Grab

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.

Feb 05, 202537:02
Trump Targets Student Protesters [Preview]

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.

Feb 01, 202519:20
Trump’s ‘DEI’ Purge: a Trojan Horse to Overturn Civil Rights and Erase History
Jan 30, 202501:00:39
China's DeepSeek Develops AI Model Like ChatGPT Without Newest Chips—And It's Free

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.


Jan 29, 202540:06
Turkish Communist Leader on Middle East Politics After the Fall of Assad in Syria

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.

Jan 25, 202550:02
Trump’s Monroe Doctrine 2.0: Cuba, Venezuela Targeted in Hybrid War

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.

Jan 23, 202501:03:01
The Billionaires Behind Trump

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.


Jan 22, 202538:06
Gaza Ceasefire: Why the Israeli Right-Wing Feels Defeated [Preview]

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.

Jan 18, 202512:00
Gaza Ceasefire Explained: Reading Between The Lines

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.

Jan 16, 202501:08:10
Huge L.A. Fires: The Capitalist Connection

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.

Jan 15, 202538:30
Greenland, Panama, Gulf of Mexico: Trump’s Cowboy Colonialism Isn’t a Joke

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.

Jan 09, 202501:15:46