The Power/Less Podcast

Hunter Dunn is the National Press Coordinator and Organizer of the 50501 Movement, the decentralized progressive grassroots movement throughout the United States. Hunter has recently made appearances in the Jubilee Surrounded series in debating the likes of Patrick Bet David and even more recently, Dave Rubin, and subsequently Piers Morgan Uncensored. Hunter and I discuss these latest media appearances, how right wing pundits are not up to the task of honest discussion, whether or not these online debate events are justifiable or useful, and what’s next for the 50501 Movement.Follow Hunter on social media:instagram.com/hunterisntdunnhttps://bsky.app/hunterisntdunn.bsky.socialhttps://www.fiftyfifty.one/https://allofus250.org/https://www.sway.co/mamdanificationFollow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.cominstagram.com/thepowerlesspodhttps://bsky.app/thepowerlesspod.com

Adam Baumel is an organizer and advocate of the Neighbors Not Numbers grassroots coalition spearheading the Abolish ICE Pledge, a pressure campaign that tracks which House and Senate candidates have publicly committed to abolishing ICE. Baumel explains why abolishing ICE is a moderate position supported by a majority of the public and how the pledge creates real accountability for politicians who often say one thing while voting another. He shares what is happening inside ICE detention centers, including hunger strikes, medical neglect, and forced labor, and he connects the fight to abolish ICE with the broader need to shift the Overton window on immigration back toward justice. Baumel also discusses how the organization is building its infrastructure, how people can look up their federal legislators by zip code, and how signing the petition helps demonstrate local support to elected officials. To learn more or get involved, visit triplenc.org.instagram.com/abolish_ice_pledgeSupport  and follow the podcast:thepowerlesspod.cominstagram.com/thepowerlesspodtitkok.com/@thepowerlesspod

Support Tammy and James Stevens as they try to find housing while both fighting cancer.https://www.gofundme.com/f/urgent-housing-recovery-fund-for-homeless-cancer-patientsAdam Elara is the front man of the band Sikeen, out of the Los Angeles area. Sikeen labels itself as an Arab and Desi rock band. The band draws from a vast range of influences, from modern metal and metalcore to pop punk and the likes of Blink-182, as well as everything from Dakbe to Tool. Rock band is a fitting description for Sikeen in a broader sense, as the group pulls from so many different directions. Elara sat down with me to discuss the background of Sikeen's music, how a host of music genres from around the world help create the band's unique sound and sonic choices, and how movements like the Palestinian liberation movement and others centered on antiwar and decolonization influence the band's lyricism, samples, features, and more.Follow and support Sikeen:https://linktr.ee/sikeenmusichttps://www.instagram.com/sikeenmusic/Follow and support The Power/Less Podcast:thepowerlesspod.cominstagram.com/thepowerlesspodyoutube.com/@thepowerlesspod

Jacob Dallas is one of the co-hosts of the podcast Workers’ Lit, which covers everything from political and historical literature, to pop culture, and the current news of the day. Jacob is also the author of the book, They Called Her Rebel, which is a fantasy novel about late state capitalism, people power, and queer love.Jacob and I chat about the recent “Rededication 250” rally in Washington, D.C., the background and worldview of the American Evangelical Movement as it pertains to the Rapture, End Times, and the strange bedfellows it makes with Israel. From the Left Behind series and video game (yes, there’s a video game), to the gleeful messages Jacob and I both saw from people within the Evangelical movement following October 7th, it’s a hell of a rabbit hole to go down.Follow and listen to Workers’ Lit- https://www.instagram.com/workers_lit/https://www.patreon.com/cw/WorkersLitBuy Jacob’s book, They Called Her Rebel- https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com/roundfire-books/our-books/they-called-her-rebelFollow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.cominstagram.com/thepowerlesspodyoutube.com/@thepowerlesspod

Adam Johnson is a journalist and media analyst, whose work has been featured in The Nation, The Intercept, Los Angeles Times, In These Times, and The San Francisco Chronicle in addition to his own Substack, The Column, and being the cohost of the Citations needed podcast.Adam has recently released his book, “How To Sell A Genocide,” which analyzes how liberal media used the vast resources and tools at its disposal to create consent for the Genocide in Gaza from October 2023-2025.Adam discusses the concept of the book at length me, the singularly dehumanizing messaging from media as it pertains to Palestinians, why it’s important to focus on liberal media rather than right wing overtly fascist mouthpieces, and more.Follow Adam:twitter.com/adamjohnsonCHIhttps://www.columnblog.com/Purchase the book, How To Sell A Genocide:https://www.plutobooks.com/product/how-to-sell-a-genocide/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.cominstagram.com/thepowerlesspodyoutube.com/@thepowerlesspod

Stephen Keech is the frontman and vocalist of the metalcore band Haste The Day. Keech sits down with me to discuss their comeback record, "Dissenter," as well as the band's comeback set at Furnace Fest in 2023, how the band's approach to writing has changed and stayed the same over the past two decades, and the full narrative concept behind the new record.Follow Haste The Day on all socials:instagram.com/hastethedayofficialfacebook.com/hastethedayofficialhttps://hastetheday.com/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.cominstagram.com/thepowerlesspodyoutube.com/ ⁨@thepowerlesspod⁩  tiktok.com/@thepwoerlesspod

Zaq Baker is a singer/songwriter and author out of Minneapolis. Zaq returns to the show to discuss the on the ground organizing, protesting, and reality for the residents of Minneapolis and the Twin Cities as they fight against the occupation and terrorization of their communities by ICE. We discuss Alex Pretti, Renee Good, and the countless immigrants, migrants, and citizens alike who have been targeted by the most recent onslaught by the federal government.Tied in with this is Zaq’s latest song about Minneapolis’s struggle, “Victorious.” We discuss how Minneapolis pushes back through solidarity, camaraderie, and above all empathy and compassion for those around them. Zaq also gives some great resources as well as an educational tool for anyone who wants to be an observer and volunteer to assist their own community in the event of ICE building up their numbers in any area across the country.Resources to assist those in Minneapolis who need it most:https://www.standwithminnesota.com/https://linktr.ee/mplsmutualaidTo access the educational resource we discuss, he is a dropbox link for the PDF from my own account:https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/qe0fwfuk6a6oa34wpocl9/01_16_26-Documenting-and-Responding-to-ICE.pdf?rlkey=7qk3vunfgrett8bok4frt2bd2&st=yvpjvnbn&dl=0Support and follow Zaq Baker:zaqbaker.comSupport and follow the podcast:thepowerlesspod.com

Backer is the founding member of the genre bending pop punk/emo/post hardcore band WeKnewNothing out of Los Angeles, CA.Backer and I discuss his political journey and activism, class consciousness, generational gaps in political understanding, conspiracy theories, the CIA, and moreFollow WeKnewNothing on all socials:instagram.com/weknewnothingyoutube.com/@weknewnothingFollow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.com

Taylor Bickett is an independent singer songwriter out of the Nashville, TN area. Taylor returns to the show just shy of a year after breaking down her emotionally packed, social commentary heavy song, “The Crime,” to discuss her latest singles, “Wild Dogs,” and “Firefly Collector.” Taylor elaborates on her approach to viewing personal struggles, heartbreaks, and relationships through a different lens than simply good or evil, how introspection and connecting her songwriting to the broader human condition directly intersects, and what people can expect from her yet to be announced full length record.Find Taylor Bickett’s social media platforms, tour dates, new music, and more on her website:taylorbickett.comFollow and support the show:thepowerlesspod.com

Keira Havens is the executive director of Citizens’ Impeachment, a nonpartisan grassroots movement with the purpose of impeaching, convicting, and ousting Donald Trump and those within the administration who enable him. Havens is also the founder and director of Courage for Democracy, a PAC that supports congressional and senate candidates who pledge to impeach Trump and fight for their constituents instead of corporate interests.Havens and I discuss the disconnect of corporate bought politicians, fighting against a corrupt system, an array of candidates that have stood up to the administration already, and how to support real change and combat corruption and self interest with public servants.Follow and support Citizens' Impeachment and Courage for Democracy:https://citizensimpeachment.com/Couragefordemocracy.comFollow and support the podcast: Thepowerlesspod.com

In an unsurprising and yet demoralizing decision, Pete Hegseth, The "Department of War" and the entirety of the United States military committed a blatant war crime on an Iranian warship which was defenseless and had no weapons on board after an exercise with the Indian Navy.follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.cominstagram.com/thepowerlesspod

Matt Conroy is a progressive congressional candidate, running for office in Illinois’ fifth congressional district. Matt and I discuss the fecklessness of out of touch, career politicians and why there is a growing insurgency of progressive challengers against long standing representatives and senators. Matt breaks down his platform, from medicare for all, to ending forever wars and the genocide in Gaza, abolishing and prosecuting ICE, housing, and more.The election for the Democratic primary is on March 17th. Follow and support his campaign:https://www.mattconroyforcongress.com/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.com

A few weeks after discourse surrounding Governor Gavin Newsom's 2028 likelihood, he made sure to go on CNN to underscore his supposed strategy for the Democratic Party: not care about "pronouns" and cultural issues.Here's the problem, he doesn't care about economic ones either.Follow the podcast:thepowerlesspod.com

It's a cold day in hell when Kristin and I watch a Tucker Carlson clip, but Huckabee is always indicative of the worst aspects of the Christian Zionist movement in the U.S. Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.com

Adam Woodley of NYC based band Allapartus returns to the show to discuss the band’s newest single, “Long Con.” Adam discusses the inspiration for the track, from recent readings on organizing, politics, and communication to It’s A Wonderful Life. We also talk our perspectives on the resistance against ICE in Minneapolis, and what collective joy and solidarity look like on the ground.Follow Allapartus:instagram.com/allapartustiktok.com/@allapartus https://linktr.ee/allapartusFollow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.cominstagram.com/thepowerlesspodtiktok.com/@thepowerlesspodbsky.app/thepowerlesspod.com

For this episode I sit down with Kim Hunt, return guest and political commentator on her accounts @slaythegop.Kim and I discuss the ongoing escalation of violence from ICE in Minneapolis and around the country, the connections between ICE and the IDF, how liberal commentators and Democrats are failing to meet the moment while grifting people's funds, and how to tell if a creator you follow online has values, or is an opportunist.follow Kim:instagram.com/slaythegoptiktok.com/@slaythegopthreads.com/slaythegopFollow the podcast:thepowerlesspod.cominstagram.com/thepowerlesspodtiktok.com/@thepowerlesspod

Rob Rousseau is a political commentator and podcaster, cohost of The Insurgents podcast as well as host of the daily live show, TRRS.Rob and I discuss the recent extrajudicial murder of Renee Good, a legal observer of ICE, mother, and wife who was gunned down in the morning on January 7th. Rob and I discuss how the reflexive justification of violence has become common whenever ICE or other federal agencies are involved. Empathy is replaced with suspicion, and the victim is posthumously transformed into a threat and labelled a domestic terrorist in order to shield institutions from criticism.In conjunction with this, we discuss the recent kidnapping and abduction of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro as well as his wife, Cilia Flores, amidst a bombing campaign in Caracas, which has resulted in more than 80 people killed, including civilians; how this imperialist violence has been set up for numerous years and multiple US presidential administrations, culminating in the escalation of the Trump administration both domestically and internationally.Follow Rob:twitter.com/robrousseauinstagram.com/robrousseauinsurgentspod.comtwitch.tv/robrousseauFollow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

Alec and I sit down to discuss our favorite movies and music of 2025, as well as what was disappointing, what we missed, and more.Follow the podcast:thepowerlesspod.cominstagram.com/thepowerlesspodhttps://bsky.app/profile/thepowerlesspod.com

In this episode, I sit down with Robert Becker of Foxtrot to talk about his new solo project Book of Beart and his upcoming EP Tribulations. We break down the songwriting process behind each track, how the pandemic shaped the record, and what pushed him to finally step out on his own creatively.We also dive into mental health, creative pressure, learning guitar under fire, and how Book of Beart differs from Becker's band, Fauxtrot, while still carrying the same emotional weight. Plus, plenty of side talk about horror movies, Alien, Predator, and guilty pleasure films along the way.https://www.instagram.com/book_of_beart/https://www.youtube.com/@BookofBeart

Dylan Blaha is a progressive candidate for the Democratic primary in the IL-13 congressional district. Blaha and I discuss his political trajectory from his 13 year career in the armed services, running against a pro corporate, pro Israel Democrat incumbent in Nikki Budzinski, why the progressive movement seems to have more teeth this  time around compared to the past few election cycles, and having his security clearance suspended for telling National Guard members to defy unlawful orders.Follow and support Dylan’s candidacy:dylanforillinois.comhttps://www.instagram.com/dylanblahaforcongresshttps://x.com/dylantblahahttps://www.tiktok.com/@dylanblahaforcongressFollow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspodinstagram.com/thepowerlesspodtiktok.com/@thepowerlesspod

pulses. are a four piece post hardcore, genre blending outfit out of Virginia. Kevin Taylor, Caleb Taylor, and Matt Burridge discuss their latest release, a mixtape titled, “pulses. pack, vol. 1.” They discuss why the songs and remixes are bigger than just B sides, and the lyrical and musical background and process of how it all came together. From natural flowing phenomena to the current reality of the world, the release encompasses a lot of topics and even more influences. Follow the band on all socials:@pulsesvapulsesva.comStream and download the “pulses. pack, vol. 1,” on Bandcamp https://pulses.bandcamp.com/album/pulses-pack-vol-1Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

Fauxtrot is a post hardcore band out of Pennsylvania. Robert, Austin, and Derek sit down with me to break down the background, songwriting, production, lyrics, and influences for their latest song, and what people can expect from the band going forward.Follow Fauxtrot:https://www.facebook.com/FauxtrotBandhttps://www.tiktok.com/@fauxtrot_official https://www.instagram.com/fauxtrot_band/https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@Fauxtrot_Band⁩  follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.com

Ryan Woods is a singer, songwriter, and multi instrumentalist out of Los Angeles, CA. Ryan sits down with me to break down his brand new record, "Godboy," his songwriting process, how lockdowns during COVID changed the way he approached creating music, and the inspirations behind the record.Follow Ryan Woods:https://www.instagram.com/itsryanwoods/https://www.tiktok.com/@itsryanwoodshttps://ryanwoods.bandcamp.com/album/godboyhttps://fearlessrecords.com/releases/godboy/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

Molly Rennick is the lead singer and founding member of the modern metal band Living Dead Girl, originally from Ontario. Molly and I discuss how the band’s name came from the day she was born, the roller coaster of auditioning strangers from Craigslist to join her band, and the trajectory of Living Dead Girl from COVID times to now. We take time to break down the band’s sophomore album which ranges from topics of toxicity and lack of critical thinking in the world around us to being a Disney adult to, as the track title indicates, a Succubus. You can find where to follow Living Dead Girl as well as where to purchase their new record atlivingdeadgirl.cahttps://www.instagram.com/livingdeadgirlofficial/https://www.youtube.com/@LIVINGDEADGIRLOFFICIALhttps://www.tiktok.com/@livingdeadgirlofficialFollow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspodSupport independent media telling real stories via Sovereign Media:https://linktr.ee/Sovereign_Media_

In this episode, I sit down with Logan Ragsdale; a powerlifter, former musician, and outspoken leftist from Alabama. We get into the overlap between gym culture and politics, the myth that “lifting makes people fascist,” and why reactionary content online is such an easy grift. We also dive into Logan’s musical background, the influence of political bands, and how class consciousness shows up in unexpected places — even in the Deep South.We talk about growing up in conservative states, the hypocrisy of selective outrage around political violence, and how weightlifting videos online can just as easily be a gateway to solidarity as they can to the far-right pipeline.Follow Logan:https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweighthariyamahttps://www.instagram.com/heavyweighthariyama/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comUse these resources to assist Palestinians in Gaza:https://www.thecut.com/article/how-to-help-gaza-aid-starvation-crisis.htmlceasefiretoday.comhttps://5calls.org/issue/gaza-palestinian-israeli-war/Support Sovereign Media, a new media collective that is broadcasting “Global anti-imperialist stories through a Sovereign lens. Independent journalism for the people, by the people.”https://www.instagram.com/sovereign_media_/

Use these resources to assist Palestinians in Gaza:https://www.thecut.com/article/how-to-help-gaza-aid-starvation-crisis.htmlceasefiretoday.comJune Sternbach is a cohost of the podcasts Kill The Computer and Ill Conceived, as well as the social media editor of The Onion. June and I discuss a wide foray of music from Anamanaguchi and Cocojoey to Coaltar Of The Deepers and what is your name?, the recent shootings of Charlie Kirk and the ICE detainees, how politicians and society struggle to comprehend the mindset of overly online brain poisoned individuals, Elon Musk in the Epstein files, and more.Follow and support June’s podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kill-the-computer/id1647062210https://illconceivedpodcast.com/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comArtists mentioned:Anamanaguchi: anamanaguchi.comThe Taxpayers: thetaxpayersband.comThotcrime:https://thtcrime.bandcamp.com/Coaltar Of The Deepers: https://coaltarofthedeepers.bandcamp.com/Rainer Maria:https://rainermaria.bandcamp.com/Pot Valiant :https://open.spotify.com/artist/0V1GwEs3XfqqAoVdaJwPLEwhat is your name?: https://whatisyourname.bandcamp.com/album/my-name-isWave Break: wavebreakband.com

Use these resources to assist Palestinians in Gaza:https://www.thecut.com/article/how-to-help-gaza-aid-starvation-crisis.htmlceasefiretoday.comKelly Barber is the vocalist and founding member of the band Wave Break out of New Jersey. Kelly and I discuss her start in music, the trajectory of her own music from solo material to full band collaborations, and Wave Break's brand new song, "Spinning Out." Follow and support Wave Break:wavebreakband.cominstagram.com/thepowerlesspodtiktok.com/@wavebreakbandfacebook.com/wavebreakofficialFollow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comtiktok.com/@thepowerlesspodinstagram.com/thepowerlesspod

Use these resources to assist Palestinians in Gaza:https://www.thecut.com/article/how-to-help-gaza-aid-starvation-crisis.htmlceasefiretoday.comIn this episode I speak with Francesco "Cesco" Montesanto, the lead vocalist and guitar player for the alternative rock band Sainthood Reps out of Long Island, NY. Cesco and I discuss the band's start on Tooth and Nail Records, why they decided to come back with a full length album for the first time since 2013, the changes to approaching the music scene over the years, and of course, their new record, "Dull Bliss," out September 26th.Find Sainthood Reps and support their new album:https://www.instagram.com/sainthoodrepshttps://x.com/sainthoodrepshttps://www.facebook.com/sainthoodreps/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.com

Use these resources to assist Palestinians in Gaza:https://www.thecut.com/article/how-to-help-gaza-aid-starvation-crisis.htmlceasefiretoday.comFor this episode I speak to Matic Blagonič, the vocalist and mastermind behind the Slovenian post-metalcore band Hei'An.Matic and I discuss the live music scene in Slovenia, the band's start during COVID lockdowns, being the first Slovenian band considered for a Grammy nomination, and their new record, "Kiss Our Ghosts Goodbye," out September 26th.Find the band on all socials and pre order the record:https://heianofficial.com/https://www.instagram.com/heianofficialFollow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

Use these resources to assist Palestinians in Gaza:https://www.thecut.com/article/how-to-help-gaza-aid-starvation-crisis.htmlceasefiretoday.comFor this episode I speak with Ryan of Scary Hours, a hardcore band out of New Jersey. Ryan and I discuss Rise Against, his upbringing in music, where his political and social radicalization came from, and some of the projects most social charged tracks.Follow Scary Hours on all socials:instagram.com/scaryhoursnjtiktok.com/@scaryhoursnjhttps://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@scaryhours8827⁩  Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

Journalist Taylor Lorenz recently released a report detailing dark money groups funding liberal influencers. With a lot of debate online and public blowups between influencers and journalists on the "left," let's look at why this funding isn't useful for the left the way it is the right, and why it's ultimately more of the same failed strategies that got us to a second Trump term.Article:https://www.wired.com/story/dark-money-group-secret-funding-democrat-influencers/The Power/Less Podcast, hosted by Brandon Durden, explores the intersections of politics, culture, and music. Featuring journalists, musicians, activists, and authors, the podcast unpacks how power operates and how people push back.Support and follow the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

Provide support to Palestinians in Gaza by going to the vetted links in this article:https://www.thecut.com/article/how-to-help-gaza-aid-starvation-crisis.htmlceasefiretoday.comVocalist Ashrita Kumar, guitarist Paul Vallejo and drummer Myron Houngbedji of Maryland based band pinkshift sit down with me for this episode to breakdown their brand new sophomore record, "Earthkeeper," out now on all platforms.They talk about the reason for the stark change in their sound from their first record, the impact nature, politics, personal growth, and introspection had on the record, and what's coming next for them in 2025.Follow and support pinkshift, and purchase their new record:pinkshiftmd.cominstagram.com/pinkshiftmdhttps://pinkshift.substack.com/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

Use this link to find vetted organizations to support Palestinians in Gaza: https://www.thecut.com/article/how-to-help-gaza-aid-starvation-crisis.html?utm_source=insta&utm_medium=s1&utm_campaign=thecut&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf1K9FXMR2uEI0w0EuBxTLAYtD1UI_vwzsppa1PQrv7ZgLcnmlTKmtRCNrz8w_aem_y8J_apN3feL6X96IUW96ZAIn this episode I speak with Kim Hunt, who is a political commentator and activist out of Arizona. Kim and I break down some recent stories out of North Dakota and Arizona concerning vulnerable youth within the system, the different ways that social services fail to protect and keep track of children in need, and the broader policy implications of cuts to safety net programs.Follow Kim on socials:instagram.com/slaythegoptiktok.com/@slaythegophttps://bsky.app/profile/slaythegop.bsky.socialArticles referenced:https://www.inforum.com/news/north-dakota/almost-a-dozen-north-dakota-children-teens-have-disappeared-in-17-dayshttps://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/surprise/2025/08/18/rebekah-baptiste-child-funeral-surprise/85709326007/https://www.americanprogress.org/article/congressional-republicans-are-planning-one-of-the-largest-ever-cuts-to-basic-supports-for-children/https://firstfocus.org/resource/an-assault-on-children-the-devastating-impact-of-proposed-budget-cuts-on-americas-kids/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

In this episode of the Power/Less Podcast, I speak with James Matthewson, a former spokesperson for the Labour Party, organizer, tv broadcaster and author, about the intersection of metal music, working-class identity, and politics. James shares insights on the current state of left-wing politics in the UK, critiques the Labour Party under Jeremy Corbyn as well as his new left wing political party, and discusses the need for new movements that resonate with the working class. Follow and support James Mathewson: https://www.jamesmatthewson.com/https://www.instagram.com/jmatthewsonofficial/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspodinstagram.com/thepowerlesspodhttps://bsky.app/profile/thepowerlesspod.comtiktok.com/@thepowerlesspod 0:00 Intro Music0:24 Introduction to James Matthewson and His Work3:12 The Impact of Metal Music on Working-Class Identity6:13 Political Dimensions of Music and Art9:01 Class Struggles and the Evolution of Metal11:45 The Shift in Political Messaging in Music14:25 The Role of Authenticity in Politics17:09 Partisanship and Its Effects on Political Discourse20:00 The Future of Left-Wing Politics in the UK23:10 Critique of the Labour Party and Corbyn's Leadership26:02 The Need for New Political Movements28:42 The Importance of Grassroots Activism31:25 Conclusion and Future Directions

On this episode of The Power/Less Podcast, I’m joined by Nathan Johnson, frontman of Denver heavy band Fox Lake, for a deep dive into their brand new album,New World Heat, which is out now. We talk about the record’s chaotic blend of nu-metal, hardcore, and hip-hop influence, the band’s goal of writing with urgency, and how the themes of burnout, systemic failure, and self-accountability shaped the album’s tone. Nathan also opens up about being a classically trained pianist, his unexpected love of ‘90s country, and what it’s like to write breakdowns about existential dread. New World Heat is out now wherever you listen to music. Physical copies and merch can be purchased at https://mnrkheavy.com/Follow and support Fox Lake: instagram.com/foxlakecofoxlakeband.comFollow and support the podcast: thepowerlesspod.com

In this episode, I talk with Tilly Middlehurst, a student and academic debater at Cambridge University. Tilly and I talk about political ideology, the role of debate, and how foreign policy shapes domestic issues. She shares her background, her viral debate with Charlie Kirk, and why engaging with opposing views matters; especially as the far right gains ground.Follow and support Tilly’s work:linktr.ee/blondepraxistiktok.com/@blondepraxisyoutube.com/@blondepraxis Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.com

On this episode of The Powerless Podcast, I sit down with rising indie artist and cellist Renee Christine to talk about her breakout single "Turtle Island," a track that’s blown up across platforms for its powerful blend of protest, poetry, and raw cello-driven intensity. We get into her path from orchestral beginnings to social media virality, how literature and political history influence her songwriting, and the delicate balance of honoring cultures without co-opting them. She also previews her next track "The Bomb" and what it means to write music with a shelf life longer than a headline.Follow Renee and support her work:instagram.com/reneechristineyoutube.com/@reneechristinetiktok.com/@reneechristineSupport the podcast:thepowerlesspod.com

For the 100th episode of The Power/Less Podcast, I sat down with Alizon Taho and Ben Parker of genre-bending alt-metal trio Calva Louise to talk all about their incredible new album Edge of the Abyss, out now on Mascot Records. We got into the DIY production process, the influence of sci-fi films on their cinematic sound, and how the band's expansive narrative universe ties into their music videos and lyrics.From Jess Allanic’s songwriting beginnings in Venezuela to their journey through France, New Zealand, and the UK, Calva Louise has built something truly original. We also dug into favorite tracks like “Tunnel Vision,” “Aimless,” and “Hate in Me,” what it was like working with Pendulum’s Gareth McGrillen, and their upcoming US tour with Mike’s Dead and SixSense.Stream Edge of the Abyss everywhere now.Follow and support Calva Louise: calvalouise.comFollow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

Activist and political commentator Joshua P. Hill of New Means discusses Zohran Mamdani's historic victory over Andrew Cuomo, the ongoing escalation of war perpetuated by Israel and the US against Iran, the diversion tactics of legacy media to distract from ongoing slaughters in Gaza, and the need to continue to mass organize during the current presidential administration.Subscribe and follow New Means:https://www.jphilll.com/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.com

Kasey Karlsen is the vocalist of modern metal band Deadlands out of New York. Karlsen and I discuss her popularity growth via social media and the start of Deadlands as a legitimate and passionate project.Karlsen also breaks down their brand new EP, "SEVEN," and it's concept with the seven deadly sins.You can find everything going on with Deadlands: deadlandsband.comFollow Kasey, support her on Patreon, and follow her work:https://linktr.ee/kaseykarlsenFollow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.comlinktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

In this episode I sit down with Ethan, Cameron, and Sean — the guitarist, drummer, and vocalist of South Florida metal band Chained Saint. Despite being a young band (one of them just graduated high school), they bring a sound rooted in classic thrash and old-school hardcore. We talk about working with William DuVall of Alice in Chains, who produced their debut album Blindside, and how they recorded it completely analog — no computers, no click track — in a bold move that reflects their raw, throwback approach to heavy music.We do a full track-by-track breakdown of Blindside, discussing the themes woven throughout, from political unrest and mental health to personal anger and frustration. The band shares what it was like playing the massive Welcome to Rockville festival at such a young age, and we end the episode with a listen to their latest single, “A Thousand Tons.” We also explore how Chained Saint stands apart in today’s metal scene by avoiding electronic and sample-heavy trends in favor of something more gritty and organic.Follow Chained Saint on all platforms @chainedsaintofficial (chainedsaint.com.)Follow and support the podcast: thepowerlesspod.com

For this episode I speak with Cliff Rigano, vocalist of metal band Dry Kill Logic. Cliff and I discuss his love for newer bands including Knocked Loose and Sleep Token, the band's resurgence from 2018 to now, their latest single, "No You Belong With The Dead," and what is going forward for the band for 2025.Follow Dry Kill Logic:instagram.com/drykilllogiclinktr.ee/drykilllogicSupport and follow the podcast: thepowerlesspod.com

Aric from the post-hardcore band Arcantica talks about their upcoming EP 'Vacancy'. Aric discusses the band's sound, musical influences, and the evolution of their music as well as the songwriting process, the importance of collaboration, and the themes explored in the EP. An underrated band and absolutely fantastic EP. Take some time out of your day to listen through 'Vacancy.'Follow Arcantica and support their work: https://www.instagram.com/arcanticarock/Follow and support the podcast:thepowerlesspod.com

Zaq Baker is a musician and author out of Minnesota. Zaq and I discuss his debut novel, Unspectacular which is out now. Zaq discusses the influences of the novel and how the different perspectives voiced throughout the story are influenced by various struggles and issues within the music industry. We also discuss some of Zaq's music and what touring for a book while being a performing musician looks like. Follow Zaq and purchase Unspectacular: zaqbaker.comFollow and support the podcast: linktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

fallfiftyfeet is a metal band out of West Virginia. James (guitar/vocals) and I break down their second LP "Counterfeit Recollections," the band's influences, the struggles of being from a remote area and the creativity it takes to break into the scene, and more.Counterfeit Recollections is out now on all platforms.Find the band's socials and where to stream their music:fallfiftyfeet.comSupport the podcast:linktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

Hayloft is an indie prog-rock band out of the Nashville area. Dav, Kaiser, Emilio, and Paul sit down with me to discuss and break down their brand new debut LP, “Tomato Tomato” that came out on April 25th. Stream the new record on all streaming platforms, it’s a ripper.Follow Hayloft on all platforms:https://hayloftband.com/instagram.com/hayloftbandtiktok.com/@hayloftband https://www.youtube.com/@hayloft-bandFollow and support the podcast:linktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

Taylor Bickett is a singer songwriter originally from Indiana. Taylor discusses her trajectory in music and her growth as a songwriter and musician that has led to her latest series of headlining shows all across the United States. We discuss and break down her latest single, “The Crime,” which focuses on gender based violence that originated from Taylor’s own personal experiences while holding a mirror to the world at large. Taylor is currently working with The Circle, a nonprofit grassroots organization that a global feminist organisation supporting women and girls confronting gender-based violence and economic inequality across the world.Support The Circle: https://www.thecircle.ngo/Follow Taylor Bickett on all socials:instagram.com/taylorbicketthttps://www.youtube.com/@TaylorBickettOfficialhttps://www.tiktok.com/@taylorbickettmusicFind Taylor on tour and get all updates through her website:https://www.taylorbickett.com/Follow and support the podcast:linktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

For this episode I speak with Will and Nico of Resider, a metal band out of San Diego, California. Will and Niko break down the start of the band, the lyrical and music inspirations for some of their most recent songs including, "Rat Race," "Recluse," "Gasfight," and "Pissing," their opinions on some music discourse topics, and more.Check out Resider on all socials:  @residerofficial  linktr.ee/resideordieSupport the podcast and follow on all socials:linktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

Adam Woodley is the vocalist and guitarist of the alternative rock band Allapartus out of New York. Adam discusses his start in music and activism, union organizing, the deterioration of the United States for the working class, and more. We break down Allapartus' latest song, "Choice," and its critique of the lie of what the American dream really is.Follow Allapartus on all socials: ⁨@Allapartus⁩  https://linktr.ee/allapartusFollow and support the podcast:linktr.ee/thepowerlesspod

In this episode I speak with Liam Horrigan from Cruel Hope about their brand new album, "The End of the Beginning of the End." We discuss the band’s evolving sound, their strategy of releasing multiple singles, and the album’s socio-political themes—environmentalism, workers' rights, and imperialism. Liam shares insights on their songwriting process, how Canadian politics influence their music, and art’s role in activism. We also talk about inspiring listeners to take action and the emotional weight behind the album’s themes.Follow Cruel Hope:cruelhope.cominstagram.com/cruel_hopeFollow and support the podcast:linktr.ee/thepowerlesspod