Interview • Mike Wendling: Day Of Reckoning (How The Far Right Declared War On Democracy)

Hello Initiates! In today's episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Mike Wendling, a national digital reporter for the BBC who specializes in covering disinformation and conspiracy theories.Mike shared some truly eye-opening insights from his experiences investigating far-right extremist groups in the US. We delved into the complex web of conspiracy theories surrounding major events and how they're exploited to politically radicalize people.It was sobering to hear how fringe ideas, once confined to the darkest corners of the internet, are now being laundered into mainstream political talking points by media pundits and elected officials alike. Mike's firsthand accounts of the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers revealed the contradictory nature of these groups.This episode highlighted the critical need for responsible journalism to combat the insidious spread of disinformation in our society. Be sure to check out Mike's book "Day of Reckoning" for a deep dive into the rise of the alt-right.As always, we appreciate you tuning into "Some Dare Call It Conspiracy." Let's keep shining a light on those who seek to manipulate and mislead. Until next time!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/some-dare-call-it-conspiracy--5932731/support.Some Dare Call It Conspiracy is an award-winning podcast that examines conspiracy theories, misinformation, and moral panics — not from the outside, but from the inside.The show is co-created and hosted by Brent Lee and Neil Sanders, both former insiders in the conspiracy world who spent years immersed in conspiracy belief, alternative media, and grassroots activism before walking away. Their experience gives them first-hand insight into how conspiracy narratives are built, why they feel so convincing, and why leaving those communities can be difficult.Drawing on lived experience, deep research, and expert interviews — alongside a distinctly British sense of humour — the podcast breaks down conspiracy culture with clarity and bite. Episodes vary in format, but all focus on who benefits when misinformation spreads, how harm is done, and how bad ideas gain influence.The result is a show that is sceptical without being smug, serious about real-world consequences without losing its edge, and unafraid to call out grift and power where it thrives.Join us to discover where the truth… lies.Website: https://www.somedarecallitconspiracy.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/somedarecallitconspiracyTwitter/X: https://x.com/somedarepodcastBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/somedarepodcast.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/somedarecallitconspiracyFacebook: https://www.facebook