The Proud Boys

Rick talks to Peter Simi, a sociology professor and expert in extremism, about the alarming rise of white supremacy in the U.S., where the movement has evolved from the overt image of the Klan to a slick, social media-driven force. Simi highlights how figures like Donald Trump and Tucker Carlson amplify these ideologies and how younger generations are being recruited online. He emphasizes the need for intervention programs to help individuals leave the movement and combat its growing influence. Buy Peter Simi’s book – “Out of Hiding: Extremist White Supremacy and How It Can be Stopped” – at fine bookstores everywhere.

America is no stranger to extremist political groups, a phenomenon further highlighted on January 6th. However, one thing we don't understand clearly enough is the overlap with our veteran community. On this episode Rick speaks with Ken Harbaugh, veteran and co-producer of "Against All Enemies," a documentary exploring why veterans are drawn into extremist groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers.

Dr. Jennifer Mercieca examines how Donald Trump used communication to con his supporters and suggests strategies to cool out his marks and defend democracy in America.

"The Proud Boys have become a conduit for the infusion of extremist energies into American public life and the Republican party," writes Ruth Ben-Ghiat. And they're not going away.

Dueling egos. Name-calling. Insult swaps. Authoritarian ambitions. Hooves for hands? Ron and Don are a match made in Hell, but Ronna ROMNEY McDaniel is patchin' things up. Or not. By the brilliant and hilarious @HistoryFalls.

The crazy and extremism will wreck a wave. Everyone should have seen this coming