Logo
    Search

    Ep. 1117 - The Woke Speech Police Are Now Rewriting Books By Dead Children's Authors

    enFebruary 21, 2023

    Podcast Summary

    • Cancel culture rewrites children's literatureCancel culture is evolving to rewrite the works of beloved children's authors, like Roald Dahl, to remove offensive language, raising concerns about cultural heritage and artistic expression.

      Cancel culture continues to evolve and expand, even posthumously, as demonstrated by publishing companies' efforts to rewrite the works of beloved children's authors like Roald Dahl. This trend, which was previously seen as an absurd example of censorship with the case of Dr. Seuss, has now taken a step further with the actual rewriting of Dahl's books to remove language deemed offensive by modern sensibilities. This raises concerns about the erasure of cultural heritage and the potential impact on artistic expression and creativity. Additionally, the US economy is facing significant financial challenges, and it's crucial for individuals to consider diversifying their investments, including precious metals, to protect their savings. The Matt Walsh Show continues to address these and other pressing issues.

    • Roald Dahl's Classic Children's Literature: To Edit or Not to Edit?The debate continues on whether to edit classic children's literature for inclusivity or preserve the original intent and artistic vision. Controversial changes, such as removing 'formidable' female descriptions and replacing 'men' with 'people', spark discussions on gender neutrality, representation, and artistic freedom.

      There is an ongoing debate about the editing and reinterpretation of classic children's literature to make it more inclusive and politically correct. In the case of Roald Dahl's works, certain editions have been altered to remove offensive language and stereotypes, but some argue that these changes go too far and undermine the original intent and artistic vision of the author. The removal of references to female characters as "formidable" and the replacement of "men" with "people" in certain instances have sparked controversy, as some see it as an erasure of biological sex and a step towards a more gender-neutral society. However, others argue that these changes are necessary to combat harmful stereotypes and promote greater representation and inclusion. Ultimately, the issue raises important questions about the role of sensitivity readers and publishers in shaping the literary canon and the potential consequences of reinterpreting classic works for contemporary audiences.

    • Censorship and Rewriting LiteratureRespecting original works and preserving literature's full enrichment is crucial. Be prepared for unexpected shortages and rising costs, and use affordable services for essential needs. Be wary of overly sanitized media, as it may lack depth and challenge for children.

      The push for censorship and rewriting of literature, even with good intentions, can have detrimental effects. It's important to respect the original work of authors and preserve the full enrichment and education that comes from reading great literature, even if it may be upsetting or conflict with our beliefs. Meanwhile, in the real world, we also need to be prepared for unexpected shortages and rising costs, as seen in the grocery store example. A solution is to use services like Jace Medical for affordable access to necessary medications. Lastly, a subtle but significant change in children's media is the shift from vividly drawn cartoons with physical world challenges to more sanitized, politically correct content. This change, while seemingly minor, can contribute to making children's media, and by extension, the next generation, bland and boring.

    • Contrast between past and present children's mediaClassic children's media introduced kids to real-life challenges, while modern media sanitizes and simplifies problems, removing frustration and failure.

      Children's media from the past introduced kids to the realities of the physical world, including frustration and failure, through cartoons and books, while modern children's media is sanitized, bland, and devoid of such challenges. The example given was the contrast between classic cartoons, where characters briefly defy physics before facing consequences, and modern cartoons, where problems are magically solved without any frustration or failure. Similarly, Roald Dahl books are being rewritten to remove any potentially upsetting or frustrating elements. Meanwhile, political news, such as Joe Biden's trip to Ukraine, is often exaggerated and sensationalized, making it less impressive in reality.

    • US President Biden's visit to Ukraine during an air raid sirenBiden's visit to Ukraine during an air raid siren symbolized US commitment to Ukraine as a key ally and demonstrated bravery, boosting morale for NATO and Western allies.

      President Biden's visit to Ukraine during an air raid siren was a significant moment in US-Ukraine relations, drawing comparisons to historical meetings between world leaders during times of conflict. Despite no US military presence on the ground, Biden's visit underscores the US's commitment to Ukraine as a key ally in the region. The visit was seen as courageous by some, particularly in contrast to former President Trump's handling of international crises. However, some argue that the significance of the conflict to Americans is limited, as it is largely a scuffle between Russia and Ukraine. Regardless, Biden's visit to Kyiv was a powerful symbol of US support for democracy and a rallying point for NATO and Western allies. The media response was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising Biden's bravery and the images of him and Ukrainian leaders walking together.

    • U.S. Involvement in Ukraine: Relevance and ImportanceCritics argue that U.S. focus on Ukraine comes at the expense of domestic issues, question Ukrainian government's democratic values, and suggest a 'national divorce' to address domestic divisions, highlighting the need for a thoughtful foreign policy debate.

      The ongoing discourse surrounding U.S. involvement in the Ukraine conflict, particularly the recent visit by President Biden, raises questions about the relevance and importance of this issue to the American people. Critics argue that the focus on Ukraine comes at the expense of addressing pressing issues at home, such as infrastructure and border security. They also point out that the Ukrainian government is not a model of freedom and democracy, and that there are numerous other conflicts and human rights violations occurring around the world. Some, like Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, have even suggested the idea of a "national divorce" to address perceived political and cultural divisions within the U.S. Overall, the debate underscores the need for a nuanced and informed discussion about foreign policy priorities and the role of the U.S. in global affairs.

    • The Idea of a National Divorce is ImpracticalA national divorce is an unfeasible solution due to the lack of clear geographical dividing lines and the complexities of dividing states and territories. Instead, focusing on finding common ground and bridging the divide may be a more effective strategy.

      Despite the deep and unbridgeable ideological divide in the United States, a national divorce is an unfeasible solution due to the lack of clear geographical dividing lines between the two sides. The idea of a national divorce, while understandable given the current state of American politics, is not practical due to the complexities of dividing states and territories. The speaker acknowledges the need for a conversation about what binds America together as a people, but suggests that a more feasible strategy may be to focus on finding common ground and bridging the divide rather than separating completely. The idea of a national divorce may be a provocative one, but it is ultimately an impractical solution to the complex issues facing American society.

    • Economy, Inflation, and Crime are Top Concerns for Republican Voters in 2024Republican voters prioritize economy, inflation, and crime over education issues in the 2024 presidential race, but education remains important and should be addressed with care, avoiding authoritarian or big government approaches.

      While education issues, including parental rights and what is being taught in schools, are important to many Americans, particularly parents, they may not be the most pressing concerns for voters in the 2024 presidential race. According to Larry Hogan, former Maryland governor, the economy, inflation, and crime are more significant concerns for the Republican base. However, education remains an important topic that needs to be addressed. The debate around education policies and parental rights should be handled with care, avoiding authoritarian or big government approaches. The label of small government conservatism is often used by established Republicans, but in reality, they tend to expand the size of government rather than shrink it. Ultimately, voters are concerned about their children's education and future, and candidates should acknowledge and address these concerns while being mindful of the importance of individual freedoms and limited government.

    • The Role of Government in Education: Blurred LinesCriticizing government-run schools doesn't equate to supporting big government, and personal actions don't always require a good idea to be taken.

      The distinction between small and big government can become blurred when it comes to the role of government in education. The speaker argues that those who criticize or scrutinize government-run schools are labeled as proponents of big government, even though they may advocate for the dismantling of the public school system due to its size and control over education. Meanwhile, the speaker shares a personal story about taking unnecessary risks and engaging in dangerous activities, emphasizing that people don't always need to think something is a good idea to do it, and sometimes the bad idea is what makes it appealing. In essence, the conversation highlights the complexity of understanding the role of government and personal responsibility, and the importance of clear communication and perspective.

    • The Dangers of Over-Relying on TechnologyHumanity may be lost as society becomes increasingly dependent on technology, and those in power should be held accountable for their actions to preserve essential human qualities and historical facts.

      While there are valid concerns about the advancement of AI and robots, the real danger may be humans losing their humanity and becoming overly reliant on technology. The speaker expresses concern over society's increasing dependence on technology and the potential loss of essential human qualities. Another topic discussed was the idea that people, especially those in positions of power, can have a significant impact on others and should be held accountable for their actions. The speaker also criticized the erasure of history and the rewriting of facts by certain groups. Overall, the conversation touched on themes of technology, accountability, and the importance of preserving history.

    • Controversial Comments About Transgender Content CreatorThe use of harsh language towards transgender individuals sparks intense backlash, but some argue that factually accurate comments, even if unproductive, should be allowed.

      The discussion revolves around a commentator's honest but controversial remarks about Dylan Mulvaney, a content creator who identifies as transgender. The commentator's comments sparked intense backlash from various individuals, with many labeling her mean and cruel. The commentator's critics argue that her remarks were unnecessarily harsh and hurtful, while the commentator defends her stance by stating that her comments were factually accurate but not productive in changing minds or winning hearts. The debate highlights the divide on the appropriate language to use when discussing transgender issues and the potential consequences of using harsh language.

    • Emphasizing the importance of truth in the culture warSpeaking truthfully rallies people to our side and emboldens them to speak up, the goal is to defeat and humiliate the opposition, not to persuade them.

      During a discussion with various individuals, it was emphasized that speaking the truth, no matter how harsh or uncomfortable, is necessary in the culture war. The truth is the reality, and it's important not to conceal it or hide from it. The primary objective is not to convince the other side, but to defeat and humiliate those who advocate for the abuse of children, attack truth, and erode the foundations of human civilization. This strategy not only rallies people to our side but also emboldens them to speak up and speak truthfully. Preaching to one's own audience is a good thing and can help demoralize the opposition. The criticism that the rhetoric is not persuasive to the other side is misguided, as the goal is not to reach an understanding or compromise, but to defeat the enemy.

    • Using a bold tone to challenge cultural oppositionBeing overly accommodating may not be effective in changing cultural narratives. A bold, unwavering tone that paints opposition as repulsive and insane may be more successful, but honesty and truth are crucial.

      Being overly accommodating and nice in the face of opposition, particularly on cultural issues, may not be effective in winning hearts and minds or changing the cultural narrative. Instead, an unwavering and bold tone that paints the opposition as repulsive and insane may be more successful in gaining traction and influencing cultural norms. However, it is important to note that this approach should be used honestly and with truth, as the opposition may use dishonest tactics to make the truth seem insane. The speaker expresses anger towards the opposition due to the negative impact they have had on society and the potential harm they could cause to future generations. The use of tone and language is crucial in shaping cultural discourse, and the tone that ultimately wins the day is often more important than the substance of the argument itself.

    • Protecting Children from Harmful InfluencesSpeaker expresses anger towards Dylan Mulvaney and related movements, feeling strongly protective of children and justifying use of strong language to protect them, criticizing those who prioritize niceness over standing against perceived threats, encouraging listeners to join community for further discussion.

      The speaker's anger towards Dylan Mulvaney and related movements stems from their perceived threat to children's wellbeing. The speaker feels strongly protective of their own children and believes that others should share their level of concern. The speaker justifies their use of strong language as a response to this perceived threat, implying that they are willing to go to great lengths to protect their children. The speaker criticizes those who prioritize being nice over taking a stand against what they see as harmful influences. The speaker concludes by encouraging listeners to join their community for further discussion.

    Recent Episodes from The Matt Walsh Show

    Ep. 1399 - Higher Education Is Failing America

    Ep. 1399 - Higher Education Is Failing America

    Today on the Matt Walsh show, hosted yet again by me, David Cone, young men are opting out of college in record numbers. Higher education continues to dilute curriculum, reducing the benefit of diplomas. The Supreme Court rules that Donald Trump has immunity for "official acts." I apply for a job on Dr. Jill Biden's team live, during the show, and climate activists are getting canceled.


     

    Ep.1399


     

    - - -


     

    DailyWire+:


     

    Buy one year of DailyWire+ and get a second year FREE! Join here: https://bit.ly/3L1kc1o


     

    Get 10% off your tickets to Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot at http://angel.com/MATT


     

    Shop my merch collection here: https://bit.ly/3EbNwyj


     

    - - - 


     

    Today’s Sponsor:


     

    Birch Gold - Make a qualifying purchase by July 31st and get a GOLDEN Truth Bomb! Text “WALSH” to 989898, or go to https://birchgold.com/WALSH


     

    - - -


     

    Socials: 


     

    Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3Rv1VeF


     

    Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3KZC3oA


     

    Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3eBKjiA


     

    Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RQp4rs

    Ep. 1398 - Ignore Your Eyes, Everything Is Fine

    Ep. 1398 - Ignore Your Eyes, Everything Is Fine

    Today on the Matt Walsh show, guest hosted by yours truly, David Cone, President Biden attempts to recover from his disastrous debate performance. Democrat operatives begin their best spin campaign in an effort to convince us that we didn't see what we clearly saw on that stage. America is losing to other countries in football, and I won't stand for it. And "International Days of random things" have become a problem, and they're getting canceled.


     

    Ep.1398


     

    - - -


     

    DailyWire+:


     

    Buy one year of DailyWire+ and get a second year FREE! Join here: https://bit.ly/3L1kc1o


     

    Get 10% off your tickets to Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot at http://angel.com/MATT


     

    Get your Matt Walsh flannel here: https://bit.ly/3EbNwyj


     

    - - -


     

    Socials: 


     

    Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3Rv1VeF


     

    Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3KZC3oA


     

    Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3eBKjiA


     

    Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RQp4rs

    Ep. 1397 - One Thing Is Clear: Biden Is Done

    Ep. 1397 - One Thing Is Clear: Biden Is Done

    Today on the Matt Walsh show, guest hosted by yours truly, David Cone, we will dissect the top 5 takeaways from the most consequential presidential debate of our lifetime. President Joe Biden was barely functional, and Donald Trump took advantage. Louisiana parents sue in response to the state’s governor signing a new bill into law requiring all public schools to display the Ten Commandments in every classroom. The organization PETA launches a new campaign encouraging members to stop having sexual relations with meat-eaters. And I will be canceling new LA Lakers head coach, JJ Redick.


     

    Ep.1397


     

    - - -


     

    DailyWire+:


     

    Get 10% off your tickets to Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot at http://angel.com/MATT


     

    Get 25% off your DailyWire+ Membership here: https://bit.ly/4akO7wC


     

    Get your Matt Walsh flannel here: https://bit.ly/3EbNwyj


     

    - - - 


     

    Today’s Sponsors:


     

    Birch Gold - Make a qualifying purchase by July 31st and get a GOLDEN Truth Bomb! Text “WALSH” to 989898, or go to https://birchgold.com/WALSH


     

    Tax Network USA - Seize control of your financial future! Call 1(800)245-6000 or visit http://www.TNUSA.com/WALSH


     

    - - -


     

    Socials: 


     

    Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3Rv1VeF


     

    Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3KZC3oA


     

    Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3eBKjiA


     

    Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RQp4rs

    Backstage: The Presidential Debate

    Backstage: The Presidential Debate

    Watch the exclusive Daily Wire Backstage: Presidential Debate post-show as Ben Shapiro, Matt Walsh, Michael Knowles, Andrew Klavan, and Jeremy Boreing dissect Trump's landslide victory and Biden's catastrophic performance that sent the Democratic Party into full-blown panic. Our all-star panel delivers the unvarnished truth about this debate's seismic impact on America's future. Don't miss this no-holds-barred analysis of a night that may have already decided the 2024 election.


     

    - - - 


     

    Today’s Sponsors:


     

    Birch Gold - Make a qualifying purchase by July 31st and get a GOLDEN Truth Bomb! Text "BEN" to 989898, or go to https://birchgold.com/BEN


     

    PreBorn! - Donate today to support PreBorn's life-saving work: https://www.preborn.com/BACKSTAGE


     

    Boll & Branch - Get 15% off your order at https://www.bollandbranch.com/BEN

    The Matt Walsh Show
    enJune 28, 2024

    Ep. 1396 - A System Run By Illiterate Imbeciles

    Ep. 1396 - A System Run By Illiterate Imbeciles

    Today on the Matt Walsh Show, a judge in Atlanta was just arrested and removed from the bench after getting into a fight at a nightclub and assaulting a police officer. Again: this woman works as a judge, not a waitress at Waffle House. But, she is just a symptom of a much larger problem. We'll discuss. Also, I'll offer my preview of tonight's presidential debate. Climate protesters attempt a very unique and hilarious method of stopping traffic. And, a guy on Twitter is roundly mocked and ridiculed after offering some unorthodox life advice to young men. As usual, the peanut gallery is wrong.


     

    Ep.1396


     

    - - -


     

    DailyWire+:


     

    Join us live on Backstage for real-time coverage of the presidential debate TONIGHT at 8:30 PM ET on DailyWire+.


     

    Get 10% off your tickets to Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot at http://angel.com/MATT


     

    SWEET BABY GANG IS BACK. Buy the shirt: https://bit.ly/3zfUbZE


     

    - - - 


     

    Today’s Sponsors:


     

    BetOnline - Use code "Walsh" to receive a 50% instant deposit bonus of up to $1,000 at http://www.betonline.ag


     

    ZERO DEBT USA - Learn how to get out of debt today! Visit http://www.zapmydebt.com


     

    - - -


     

    Socials: 


     

    Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3Rv1VeF


     

    Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3KZC3oA


     

    Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3eBKjiA


     

    Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RQp4rs

    Ep. 1395 - A Flock Of Drag Queens Descend On Capitol Hill

    Ep. 1395 - A Flock Of Drag Queens Descend On Capitol Hill

    Today on the Matt Walsh Show, yesterday was "Drag Lobby Day" on Capitol Hill as several drag queens descended on our nation's capital to lobby for a host of awful legislation. The whole event was a flop, though, which may tell us something. Also, the Biden Administration promotes another cross-dressing man. The city of Los Angeles cracks down on people who are committing the crime of trying to make their communities safe and livable. And, the first annual "FatCon," a convention for fat people, just happened. I'll have the highlights, in case you were under the weight limit and couldn't attend.


     

    Ep.1395


     

    - - -


     

    DailyWire+:


     

    Join us live on Backstage for real-time coverage of the presidential debate TOMORROW NIGHT at 8:30 PM ET on DailyWire+.


     

    Get 10% off your tickets to Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot at http://angel.com/matt


     

    SWEET BABY GANG IS BACK. Buy the shirt: https://bit.ly/3zfUbZE


     

    - - - 


     

    Today’s Sponsors:


     

    PureTalk - Start saving on wireless! http://www.PureTalk.com/WALSH


     

    Grand Canyon University - Find your purpose at Grand Canyon University: https://www.gcu.edu/


     

    - - -


     

    Socials: 


     

    Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3Rv1VeF


     

    Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3KZC3oA


     

    Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3eBKjiA


     

    Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RQp4rs

    Ep. 1394 - The Fight Against Child Mutilation Makes It To The Supreme Court

    Ep. 1394 - The Fight Against Child Mutilation Makes It To The Supreme Court

    Today on the Matt Walsh Show, the Supreme Court will officially hear a challenge to Tennessee's ban on "gender affirming care" for minors. This will be a huge case that could deliver a devastating blow to the trans agenda. Also, CNN kicks a Trump spokesperson off the air for questioning CNN's objectivity ahead of the presidential debate on Thursday. Taylor Swift makes a brave stand against the patriarchy at her most recent concert. And, British academics are researching milk to discover its ties to racism and colonialism.


     

    Ep.1394


     

    - - -


     

    DailyWire+:
     


    SWEET BABY GANG IS BACK. Buy the shirt: https://bit.ly/3zfUbZE

     

     

    Get 10% off your tickets to Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot at http://angel.com/MATT


     

    Get 25% off your DailyWire+ Membership here: https://bit.ly/4akO7wC


     

    Shop my merch collection here: https://bit.ly/3EbNwyj


     

    - - - 


     

    Today’s Sponsors:


     

    Birch Gold - Text "WALSH" to 989898, or go to https://birchgold.com/WALSH, for your no-cost, no-obligation, FREE information kit.


     

    Helix Sleep - Get 30% off your order + 2 dream pillows. https://helixsleep.com/WALSH


     

    - - -


     

    Socials: 


     

    Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3Rv1VeF


     

    Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3KZC3oA


     

    Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3eBKjiA


     

    Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RQp4rs

    Ep. 1393 - Christian Conservatives Proven Right Once Again As Abstinence 'Trend' Gains Popularity

    Ep. 1393 - Christian Conservatives Proven Right Once Again As Abstinence 'Trend' Gains Popularity

    Today on the Matt Walsh Show, the media has discovered a hot new trend. It's called abstinence. For years the Left mocked Christian conservatives for promoting abstinence. Now, they're coming around, but for all the wrong reasons. Also, Jamaal Bowman and AOC team up for the cringiest campaign rally of all time. Donald Trump made two campaign promises over the weekend: one very good and one very bad. And, the wife of an NFL quarterback says that she convinced her now-husband to date her by hooking up with his backup. Why would any wife share a story like that?


     

    Ep.1393


     

    - - -


     

    DailyWire+:


     

    Get 10% off your tickets to Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot at http://angel.com/MATT


     

    Get 25% off your DailyWire+ Membership here: https://bit.ly/4akO7wC


     

    Get your Matt Walsh flannel here: https://bit.ly/3EbNwyj


     

    - - - 


     

    Today’s Sponsors:


     

    ZERO DEBT USA - Learn how to get out of debt today! Visit http://www.zapmydebt.com


     

    Tax Network USA - Seize control of your financial future! Call 1(800)245-6000 or visit http://www.TNUSA.com/WALSH


     

    - - -


     

    Socials: 


     

    Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3Rv1VeF


     

    Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3KZC3oA


     

    Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3eBKjiA


     

    Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RQp4rs

    Ep. 1392 - Disney’s Not So Secret Anti-White Agenda

    Ep. 1392 - Disney’s Not So Secret Anti-White Agenda

    Today on the Matt Walsh Show, we've heard about Disney's not-so-secret gay agenda. Now, thanks to James O'Keefe, we know more about their not-so-secret anti-white agenda. Also, MSNBC talking heads do their best to explain why classrooms should have pride flags but shouldn't have the Ten Commandments. Their argument is more revealing than they wanted it to be. And, can racism cause cancer? That was the premise of an episode of an NBC medical drama. It was not satire. Not intentionally, anyway.


     

    Ep.1392


     

    - - -


     

    DailyWire+:


     

    Get 10% off your tickets to Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot at http://angel.com/MATT


     

    Get 25% off your DailyWire+ Membership here: https://bit.ly/4akO7wC


     

    Get your Matt Walsh flannel here: https://bit.ly/3EbNwyj


     

    - - - 


     

    Today’s Sponsors:


     

    Birch Gold - Text "WALSH" to 989898, or go to https://birchgold.com/WALSH, for your no-cost, no-obligation, FREE information kit.


     

    Good Ranchers - Get $100 off PLUS FREE smoked brats for a year with promo code WALSH: https://www.goodranchers.com


     

    - - -


     

    Socials: 


     

    Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3Rv1VeF


     

    Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3KZC3oA


     

    Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3eBKjiA


     

    Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RQp4rs

    Related Episodes

    The Iran Series: A Conversation with Michael Metrinko- Foreign Service Officer, Peace Corps Volunteer/Diplomat, and Hostage During the Iran Hostage Crisis

    The Iran Series: A Conversation with Michael Metrinko- Foreign Service Officer, Peace Corps Volunteer/Diplomat, and Hostage During the Iran Hostage Crisis

    In this episode, our host Dana interviews Michael Metrinko, a foreign service officer, Peace Corps volunteer/diplomat, and hostage during the Iran Hostage Crisis about Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution and Hostage Crisis. 

    Shortly before he graduated from Georgetown University in 1968 and then departed for Peace Corps training, Michael Metrinko watched the flames that erupted on the Washington horizon following the assassination of Rev. Martin Luther King. It was a portentous scene, signifying vast social and political change, and one that Metrinko would see again and again in his 25 years of service outside the United States. Some version of martial law, police brutality, mob violence, terrorism or bloody revolution were hallmarks of almost every place he served.

    Two years as a Peace Corps volunteer in Turkey and then 3 more years with the Peace Corps in Iran prepared him for several years more years as a Foreign Service Officer in both of those countries, and he witnessed the Turkish-Cypriot War, the rise of ethnic hostility in Turkey, the heavy hand of Hafez Al -Assad’s police during an assignment to Syria, and then the frenzy and violence of events as Iran fell into revolution. He was taken to prison twice in Iran, once in Tabriz in 1979 because he had remained behind as the only U.S. official in western Iran in an effort (ultimately successful) to help 4 Americans and 4 other westerners escape from the Tabriz prison. That was followed by a return to Iranian prison later that same year in the better-known 444 days of the Hostage Crisis. Both were harsh experiences.

    In the early 1980s, he was assigned to Krakow, Poland, for 3 years, and watched as the Polish Solidarity Movement crashed up against the Communist government. And then on to Israel in 1989 for 4 years as Consul General in Tel Aviv, where he closely witnessed the ongoing Palestinian intifada. And the Persian Gulf War, when Iraq’s Saddam Husseinn repeated the air attacks over Israel that Metrinko had already experienced in 1980 when Saddam Hussein launched his invasion of Iran and Metrinko was in an Iranian prison under aerial bombardment.

    There were, of course, some quiet times in Washington and abroad, but 9/11 changed the world. Metrinko was called out of retirement and asked to go to Kabul to help the newly opening embassy for 30 days. That “30 days” turned into more than 5 years in Afghanistan, with a series of Embassy-related and military-advisory positions that led him over much of the country. A second assignment in Yemen took him there for several months to help the Embassy in Sana’a, and the war in Iraq resulted in his two deployments into that combat zone in 2004 and 2009. And now? His focus is on helping Afghan refugee students adjust to their new lives in America.

    Stay tuned for our next episode and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter which you can do by visiting our website genzglobalaffairs.com. Questions, comments, feedback, or requests for future episodes and topics? Send us an email at genzglobalaffairs@gmail.com. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Twitter!

    History of American Foreign Affairs and Foreign Policy: Part 2 with Doug Cherry

    History of American Foreign Affairs and Foreign Policy: Part 2 with Doug Cherry

    In this part 2 of 3 episodes, Carla Wright, Glenn Wright, and Giana Petrichella have an extensive talk about the history of American Foreign Affairs and Foreign Policy with Doug Cherry, Brigadier General, Army, Retired, and CEO of Monterey Technologies. We discuss the establishment of foreign affairs and foreign policy, if foreign policy impacts the election decision process, Rules of Engagement in war, the benefits of a national dialogue about the Israel and Palestine war, the point of Hamas broadcasting their attack on Israel, social media's contribution to bias, the elimination of the Fairness Doctrine and the rise of Fox News. 

    The Russia-Ukraine War: A Conversation with Gen Z Ukrainian Student and Activist, Catarina Buchatskiy

    The Russia-Ukraine War: A Conversation with Gen Z Ukrainian Student and Activist, Catarina Buchatskiy

    In this episode, our host Dana interviews Gen Z Ukrainian student and activist, Catarina Buchatskiy. She is the co-founder of the Shadows Project, a youth-led Ukrainian cultural organization. Catarina grew up in Kyiv, Ukraine, and watching the annexation of Crimea shaped her passion for national security and foreign affairs. She is now a student at Stanford University majoring in International Relations with a focus on International Security.


    Stay tuned for our next episode and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter which you can do by visiting our website genzglobalaffairs.com. Questions, comments, feedback, or requests for future episodes and topics? Send us an email at genzglobalaffairs@gmail.com. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Twitter!