Keys to the PNW | Ep. 8 | From Stone Mtn to PDX: Dr. Randall Blazak on Extremism & Human Connection

In this deep-dive episode of Keys to the PNW, I sit down with renowned sociologist, author, and educator Dr. Randall Blazak to go beyond the headlines of the Pacific Northwest. From his early days conducting undercover field research on extremist subcultures to his current work de-escalating conflicts at the Portland ICE facility, Dr. Blazak offers a masterclass in understanding the social fabric of our neighborhoods. We explore why Portland became a national flashpoint for protests, how to practice mindful resistance, and what it really means to put "equity into action" on our local blocks. Whether you are a Portland local looking to understand your city better, or someone interested in the sociology of modern polarization, this hour-long conversation is packed with eye-opening insights. Connect with Dr. Blazak: https://www.randyblazak.com/ Register for his upcoming webinar, Skinhead Stories: Research on Violent Fascists, 1988-2026 (live webinar) https://www.randyblazak.com/webinars/skinhead-stories-research-on-violent-fascists-1988-2026-live-webinar Follow on Instagram: @blazakr https://www.instagram.com/blazakr/ Subscribe to Keys to the PNW for more stories about the people, culture, and hidden gems of the Upper Left! https://www.youtube.com/@KeystothePNWofficial?sub_confirmation=1 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/stan-town/groove-sauce License code: U9AQP6TCTLVKJ2VIFrom Stone Mountain to the Streets of PDX: Dr. Randall Blazak on Extremism & Human Connection