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Critical Wade Theory

Critical Wade Theory

By Wade Wainio

I'll talk about everything from politics to entertainment and philosophy. I'm also a part-time entertainment writer and working-class from the UP of Michigan, so that might come up occasionally. Oh, and I make weird experimental music and sometimes host a college radio show.
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CWT282: Equality in the Crosshairs: Debunking Right-Wing Myths and Defending Liberal Ideals

Critical Wade TheoryMay 02, 2024

00:00
20:58
CWT282: Equality in the Crosshairs: Debunking Right-Wing Myths and Defending Liberal Ideals

CWT282: Equality in the Crosshairs: Debunking Right-Wing Myths and Defending Liberal Ideals

When I say "I stand with those who favor equality," I am referring to people who want practically full equality for themselves and their fellow citizens (and not merely that they equalize opportunity, but whatever maximizes equality of outcome and simply improves life for people overall). It's a tough concept for some to grasp, to the point where people fear it, condemn it, think it's hopelessly naive, inherently irrational, etc...


May 02, 202420:58
CWT281: Life's Complexity / Is Effort Inevitable?

CWT281: Life's Complexity / Is Effort Inevitable?

Today, we're diving deep into a thought-provoking Quora question that's been on many minds: "Why does everything in life require so much effort, why can't things just happen?" Join me as we navigate through the intricacies of this query and explore the layers of complexity that shape our experiences.

Apr 30, 202412:56
CWT280: Dealing with false allegations regarding your character (politically and personally)

CWT280: Dealing with false allegations regarding your character (politically and personally)

CWT280: Dealing with false allegations regarding your character (politically and personally)

Apr 30, 202423:13
CWT279: The Curious Mind - Einstein's Spiritual Odyssey

CWT279: The Curious Mind - Einstein's Spiritual Odyssey

Open your mind and become one with the universe as I vaguely touch upon Albert Einstein's brain.

Apr 18, 202414:23
CWT278: How To Shut Down People's Superiority Complexes

CWT278: How To Shut Down People's Superiority Complexes

ALTERNATE TITLE: CWT278: Strategies for Dealing with Superiority Complexes

Apr 18, 202417:18
CWT277: Remembering 'USA for Africa: We Are the World' (1985 Music Video)

CWT277: Remembering 'USA for Africa: We Are the World' (1985 Music Video)

CWT277: Remembering 'USA for Africa: We Are the World' (1985 Music Video)

Apr 13, 202407:31
CWT276: Common human behaviors that are often misunderstood

CWT276: Common human behaviors that are often misunderstood

TOPICS: Introversion, Procrastination, Body Language, Humor, Crying, Aggression, Silence

Apr 12, 202421:26
CWT275: Decoding Misunderstandings: Layers of Intentions

CWT275: Decoding Misunderstandings: Layers of Intentions

Exploring examples of situations where people might misread your behavior and assume intentions that are opposite to reality.

Apr 08, 202419:31
CWT274: Leninism vs. Marx's Socialism [+ Where Communism Comes From]

CWT274: Leninism vs. Marx's Socialism [+ Where Communism Comes From]

Leninism and Marxian socialism, while sharing some fundamental ideas, also have distinct differences.

Apr 06, 202421:05
CWT274: Exploring Existential Questions: Insights from Nietzsche to Frankl

CWT274: Exploring Existential Questions: Insights from Nietzsche to Frankl

CWT274: Exploring Existential Questions: Insights from Nietzsche to Frankl

Apr 04, 202411:01
CWT273: Déjà Vu: How Conservatives Exploit Fear of Socialism and Egalitarianism

CWT273: Déjà Vu: How Conservatives Exploit Fear of Socialism and Egalitarianism

CWT273: Déjà Vu: How Conservatives Exploit Fear of Socialism and Egalitarianism. Admittedly, I worded things a bit clumsily in this episode. So if anyone would like me to clarify my points, feel free. I was really reading from some notes I made for this one, and it probably shows.

Apr 04, 202417:56
CWT272: Rising Above False Accusations: Navigating Misunderstandings and Moving Forward

CWT272: Rising Above False Accusations: Navigating Misunderstandings and Moving Forward

It's indeed tough when people misunderstand or misjudge you, especially when their assumptions are unfounded.


Here are some steps you can take to move forward...

Mar 29, 202416:06
CWT271: Marina Mazepa; actress, model, dancer, and contortionist

CWT271: Marina Mazepa; actress, model, dancer, and contortionist

CWT271: Marina Mazepa; actress, model, dancer, and contortionist

Mar 28, 202406:04
CWT270: Challenging Bad Tradition, Fighting Prejudice, Embracing Justice

CWT270: Challenging Bad Tradition, Fighting Prejudice, Embracing Justice

This is largely in response to the ongoing threats and enactments of genocide and the global resurgence of antisemitism, homophobia, transphobia, the attacks on reproductive choice and health, and so on.

Mar 25, 202416:04
CWT269: The Perils of High Expectations Tainting Revolutionary Ideas

CWT269: The Perils of High Expectations Tainting Revolutionary Ideas

... Our journey begins with a profound quote from Friedrich Nietzsche: "He who fights with monsters might take care lest he thereby become a monster. And if you gaze for long into an abyss, the abyss gazes also into you." These words hold a timeless truth, warning us about the dangers of losing ourselves in our pursuits, especially when our ambitions are driven by high expectations.

Mar 16, 202413:46
CWT268: Faux-Divine Design - Wade (Atheist) Tries Reimagining Humanity's Origin Story

CWT268: Faux-Divine Design - Wade (Atheist) Tries Reimagining Humanity's Origin Story

CWT268: Faux-Divine Design - Wade (Atheist) Tries Reimagining Humanity's Origin Story

Mar 11, 202414:13
CWT267: REVIEW: 'The Witch' and Its Haunting Depiction of Fear and Paranoia

CWT267: REVIEW: 'The Witch' and Its Haunting Depiction of Fear and Paranoia

I review The Witch (2015)!

Mar 09, 202413:15
CWT266: Echoes of Emotion: Exploring Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings

CWT266: Echoes of Emotion: Exploring Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings

I talk a little about Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings.

Mar 09, 202406:47
CWT265: Wade's Guitar Tips - Clean and Accurate Playing

CWT265: Wade's Guitar Tips - Clean and Accurate Playing

Guitar tip: Focus on Clean and Accurate Playing. I also play my tenor guitar at the end

Feb 23, 202409:54
CWT264: Mojo Nixon [R.I.P]: The Movies of an 'Unfiltered' Music Icon

CWT264: Mojo Nixon [R.I.P]: The Movies of an 'Unfiltered' Music Icon

Dive into the wild world of the dearly departed, late. great Mojo Nixon, the irreverent musician, actor, and once-proclaimed King of Corn-Pone Grossness. From his eclectic blend of rock, punk, and country music to his memorable roles on screen, Mojo Nixon's career is as colorful as it is unconventional. Join me as I explore his journey from the stage to the silver screen, with insights into his unique perspective on fame, music, and the cult of personality. With Mojo, there are no boundaries, only raw energy and unapologetic authenticity.

Feb 20, 202416:23
CWT263: The Ephemeral Nature of Scandal: From Lewinsky to Biden

CWT263: The Ephemeral Nature of Scandal: From Lewinsky to Biden

When Ken Starr went after Bill Clinton during his Preisdency, Starr tried to emphasize that the case is not about sex.

It is about power and abuse of power, and they talked about the scandal reflecting a deep sense of loss of the country's innocence, and all that sort of stuff.


But the political press was, practically speaking, having none of it. Sure, it got a lot of coverage, but so did OJ, the JonBenet Ramsey murder, and a whole bunch of other things from the 1990s that people tend to forget about now.

Similarly, people were acutely discussing Edward Snowden’s decision to leak to Greenwald at one point, but now that's become largely an irrelevancy. The public can only care about something for so long, then they shift that intense focus over to the next distraction; also remember Obama's "death panels" and "FEMA camps"...

Feb 16, 202421:49
CWT262: Dems Condemn Jon Stewart's Return, Ignore Biden's Greenlit Genocide

CWT262: Dems Condemn Jon Stewart's Return, Ignore Biden's Greenlit Genocide

This one will ruffle some feathers...

Feb 15, 202413:45
CWT261: TV Review: Manifest "Pilot" [Also, Tell Me YOUR Travel Stories]

CWT261: TV Review: Manifest "Pilot" [Also, Tell Me YOUR Travel Stories]

Here is my review of the pilot episode of TV series "Manifest," and I also talk about my limited flight experiences...and may be interested in hearing about YOUR experiences flying.

Feb 10, 202415:42
CWT260: W/guest Carlos Rafael Rivera, composer for Netflix's 'Griselda'

CWT260: W/guest Carlos Rafael Rivera, composer for Netflix's 'Griselda'

I spoke with Carlos Rafael Rivera about his score for the Netflix miniseries "Griselda." Rivera is a two-time Emmy-winner and a Grammy winner. We talk about how true crime and horror shows are always a "guilty pleasure," and about the quirks of education.


He also asked me about my shirt...a purple shirt featuring Peter Kropotkin, a Russian Prince who renounced his position to become a revolutionary anarchist (the purple short has the caption "The Anarchist Formerly Known as Prince").

Feb 06, 202423:11
CWT259: Breaking the Cycle: Understanding and Overcoming Poor Personal and Political Choices

CWT259: Breaking the Cycle: Understanding and Overcoming Poor Personal and Political Choices

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, I delve into the complex reasons why some individuals consistently make bad choices in life, even when they are aware of the consequences. From psychological factors and environmental influences to cognitive biases and lack of information, I explore the multifaceted nature of decision-making. Join me as I discuss interventions, the importance of empathy, and the potential for positive change. Ultimately, I challenge the notion of perpetual blame and emphasize the power of personal choice in shaping a better future.

Feb 05, 202419:36
CWT258: "BBQ Brawl" TV recommendation / My quick BBQ meal idea

CWT258: "BBQ Brawl" TV recommendation / My quick BBQ meal idea

Just wanted to make a quick episode about a topic I have never covered before: BBQ, and a BBQ TV show.

Yes, BBQ. I know, I know, the world's falling apart and there are far bigger issues I could be addressing, but I have been a little too busy to write notes for elaborate podcast episodes at the moment. So here's a quick episode about...yes, BBQ.

Jan 23, 202405:28
CWT257: Tales from the Crypt REVIEW: 'The Man Who Was Death' (w/guest Ryan Wainio)

CWT257: Tales from the Crypt REVIEW: 'The Man Who Was Death' (w/guest Ryan Wainio)

I got my brother on to chat about the classic series premiere of Tales from the Crypt, titled "The Man Who Was Death." The episode is an electrifying good time! (Hopefully the podcast episode is, too.)

Jan 12, 202432:23
CWT256: The Endless Loop: Humanity's Dance with Exploitation and the Absurdities Within

CWT256: The Endless Loop: Humanity's Dance with Exploitation and the Absurdities Within

In this episode, I unravel the perpetual cycle of humanity's exploitation of nature, examining the four fundamental elements: economic exploitation, religious manipulation, the military-industrial complex, and "organic" human manipulation. Delve into the core of corruption, the fifth element of ideology, as I explore the subtle yet powerful forces shaping our world. Delve into the core of corruption, the fifth element of ideology, as we explore the subtle yet powerful forces shaping our world. From the global stage to quirky examples like Samsung's response to Apple's $19 polishing cloth, I dissect the absurdities that highlight the need for a shift towards ethical consumerism and a world less driven by greed.

Dec 30, 202316:32
CWT255: Gremlins 2: The New Batch – Chaos in the Big Apple and Beyond

CWT255: Gremlins 2: The New Batch – Chaos in the Big Apple and Beyond

Join me in this episode as we dive into the 1990 American comedy horror film "Gremlins 2: The New Batch," directed by Joe Dante and produced by Michael Finnell. We explore the film's mix of horror, comedy, and satire, its self-referential and comedic approach, and the unique characters that populate the chaotic world of the Gremlins.

Dec 28, 202321:28
CWT254: Jolene Blalock: From Vulcan to Maxim, A Stellar Star Trek Babe

CWT254: Jolene Blalock: From Vulcan to Maxim, A Stellar Star Trek Babe

I objectify a Vulcan.

Dec 21, 202309:29
CWT253: Navigating the Abyss: Unraveling the Threads of Meaning in a Conflicted World

CWT253: Navigating the Abyss: Unraveling the Threads of Meaning in a Conflicted World

There’s a reason I could only go so far in giving you the exact definition of myself. It's similar to why, no matter how hard and try, there is no truly universal answer I could concoct for the question:

“What is the meaning of life?”

My typical answer is that the meaning is to find your own meaning, which sounds nice, maybe even profound, but is still sort of a non-answer.

Dec 10, 202312:39
CWT252: I gave $5 to Blue Future PAC (ALSO: I discuss March for Our Lives)

CWT252: I gave $5 to Blue Future PAC (ALSO: I discuss March for Our Lives)

In this episode of CWT, we delve into a concerning trend that demands our attention. Recent polling indicates a significant shift among 12th-grade boys, who are now more than twice as likely to identify as conservative compared to previous years. Right-wing billionaires are strategically targeting the youth, while the Democratic Party risks taking their support for granted. Join us as we explore the potential consequences of this shift, the importance of sustained support for youth organizing, and the role Blue Future plays in bridging the gap. Discover how the youth can be a powerful force for change, but only with the encouragement and backing they deserve.

Dec 05, 202317:36
CWT251: Slavery/Secessionist History, Thomas Jefferson Depravity, Citizens United Tomfoolery

CWT251: Slavery/Secessionist History, Thomas Jefferson Depravity, Citizens United Tomfoolery

I mix up the words "Benefactor" and "Beneficiary" in this episode, so I apologize. Anyway, have fun hearing my political takes about how doomed this country (and the world) seems to be!

Dec 02, 202327:50
CWT250: Jacinta (2020) MOVIE REVIEW (documentary on addiction)

CWT250: Jacinta (2020) MOVIE REVIEW (documentary on addiction)

IMDb's synopsis excerpt: "Filmed for over three years, JACINTA begins at the Maine Correctional Center where Jacinta, 26, and her mother Rosemary, 46, are incarcerated together, both recovering from drug addiction. As a child, Jacinta became entangled in her mother's world of drugs and crime and has followed her in and out of the system since she was a teenager..."

Nov 23, 202313:20
CWT249: Rejecting Extremes, Embracing Rational Discourse, and Making Animal Farm/Wizard of Oz Analogies

CWT249: Rejecting Extremes, Embracing Rational Discourse, and Making Animal Farm/Wizard of Oz Analogies

Description: In this episode, I explore the delicate balance of critiquing both the left and the right while promoting rational discourse and rejecting extreme ideologies. From the dangers of radical fascism to the pitfalls of authoritarian communism, I delve into the complexities of political philosophies in America. Join me as I discuss the need for a more direct democracy, free from authoritarian impulses, and explore the deep freedom within the ideas of the Left that encourage revolutionary change. It's a journey through the political landscape, where I seek to find common ground and advocate for a society built on understanding, courage, and genuine democratic principles.

Nov 14, 202314:30
CWT248: Decoding State-Sponsored Deception and the Iraq War Fiasco

CWT248: Decoding State-Sponsored Deception and the Iraq War Fiasco

...now that they were engaged in a war, the Bush administration suddenly began not to care about the cost of things. They were prepared to spend endless amounts on the war, and they made up for that by lying to the American people and deceiving the UN about the reasons for the war.

Remember the so-called Bush Doctrine: "if you are not with us, you are against us."

Nov 14, 202316:45
CWT247: FILM REVIEW: Eventyrland / It's Only Make Believe (2013)

CWT247: FILM REVIEW: Eventyrland / It's Only Make Believe (2013)

CWT247:FILM REVIEW: Eventyrland / It's Only Make Believe (2013)


Nov 05, 202314:05
CWT246: A majority of Americans favor protecting abortion access

CWT246: A majority of Americans favor protecting abortion access

CWT246: A majority of Americans favor protecting abortion access

Nov 04, 202310:38
VIDEO: My interview of Neil deGrasse Tyson, Scott Hamilton Kennedy. Topic: Shot in the Arm

VIDEO: My interview of Neil deGrasse Tyson, Scott Hamilton Kennedy. Topic: Shot in the Arm

VIDEO: Neil deGrasse Tyson and Scott Hamilton Kennedy discuss their latest documentary, Shot in the Arm.


This is also for those who need to see my weird face.

This will also be available in text form as an article for VENTS Magazine online.

Oct 27, 202319:45
CWT245: Guests Neil deGrasse Tyson, Scott Hamilton Kennedy discuss 'Shot in the Arm'

CWT245: Guests Neil deGrasse Tyson, Scott Hamilton Kennedy discuss 'Shot in the Arm'

My biggest interview yet. My guests are Astrophysicist, author, and popular scientist Neil deGrasse Tyson, as well as Academy Award-nominated Director Scott Hamilton Kennedy. They discuss their latest documentary, "Shot in the Arm." They also tell me their favorite horror movies.


NOTE: This interview will soon be available in edited form as an article for VENTS Magazine online. Here it is in its raw form. And hey, if you want to see the ways in which I attempted to edit this in text form, go right ahead. I get more clicks and listens that way, baby!

Oct 27, 202319:44
CWT244: Unmasking Orange Deception: The Trump Chronicles

CWT244: Unmasking Orange Deception: The Trump Chronicles

"It's not a lie if you believe it."

— George Costanza, Seinfeld

Oct 13, 202322:48
CWT243: Picking on poor Clarence Thomas / Originalist folly and Supeyachts!

CWT243: Picking on poor Clarence Thomas / Originalist folly and Supeyachts!

After this, I will probably give Clarance Thomas a break as a topic...but man, he sure did screw the country over!

Oct 06, 202313:38
CWT242: California - Addressing specific critiques of the Golden State

CWT242: California - Addressing specific critiques of the Golden State

"OMG, enough already! What about their runaway energy costs?"

Oct 03, 202313:48
 CWT241: Corrupt Clarence Thomas and Wife's Growing Scandals 'N Scams

CWT241: Corrupt Clarence Thomas and Wife's Growing Scandals 'N Scams

While Justice Thomas has not officially been found to have broken any laws or ethical rules, his acceptance of such gifts and travel accommodations has raised questions about his impartiality and judgment, and he could be under criminal suspicion for not reporting them.

Sep 22, 202320:11
CWT240: Sick of the right's constant California-bashing? So am I

CWT240: Sick of the right's constant California-bashing? So am I

Anyone who thinks there are only negative things about California likely has a bad diet of right-wing propaganda.

NOTE: This may be a part of a series, though I haven't fully decided how much time I plan on spending discussing the state of California (we'll see).

Sep 19, 202316:25
CWT239: The Paradox of Voting: Ideals, Loyalty, and Economic Reality

CWT239: The Paradox of Voting: Ideals, Loyalty, and Economic Reality

Voting behavior is influenced by a complex interplay of factors...and many of them match some of the worst stereotypes of Americans.

Sep 12, 202317:20
CWT238: Corrupt Clarence Thomas and Wife / Other GOP Scandals 'N Scams

CWT238: Corrupt Clarence Thomas and Wife / Other GOP Scandals 'N Scams

A Supreme Court Justice is supposed to “place a loyalty to the Constitution, the laws and ethical principles above private gain,” and as a part of ethics-related laws for all federal employees, they are supposed to “submit public financial disclosures,” which “includes gifts over a few hundred dollars,” and if they don’t, “they can face criminal charges or stiff civil penalties.”


The controversy surrounding Justice Thomas’s conduct stems from his acceptance of gifts and travel accommodations from people and organizations with an interest in matters before the Supreme Court.

The GOP keeps calling themselves the party of law and order, yet where is their idea that “no one is above the law?”


While it is not illegal for Supreme Court Justices to accept such gifts, they are legally supposed to be reported, and it is generally viewed as inappropriate due to the potential for conflicts of interest or the appearance of impropriety.

Sep 08, 202316:56
CWT237: Why we fear the far-right more than the far-left

CWT237: Why we fear the far-right more than the far-left

Historical Context: The 20th century witnessed the rise of extreme right-wing ideologies such as fascism and Nazism, which led to widespread atrocities and World War II. The Holocaust, in particular, stands as a stark reminder of the horrors that can result from far-right extremism (to the point where the difference between "far-right" and "moderate" may look like the difference between light and darkness).


Aug 25, 202312:15
CWT236: It bears repeating: Trump did it to himself!

CWT236: It bears repeating: Trump did it to himself!

Considering all the ways Trump tried to overturn the election, it only makes sense to call him out on it, and to hold him accountable for trying to prove his case in every way other than the legal, ethical, factual way.

Aug 20, 202314:39
CWT235: Hitchcock's 'The Birds': Why were the birds attacking?

CWT235: Hitchcock's 'The Birds': Why were the birds attacking?

The film doesn't provide a clear, definitive reason for the bird

attacks, which adds to the mystery and suspense of the story.

Still, there are theories worth exploring...

Aug 17, 202317:06