The Socialist Program with Brian Becker
By The Socialist Program
The Socialist Program with Brian BeckerSep 29, 2022
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
US Preparing for Regional War in the 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.
Congress’s Witch Hunt Against Palestine Flips Reality On Its Head: Students Are Trying 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Why The U.S. Government Backs Israel War Crimes
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.
$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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.