Hostile Dysfunction

In this episode, Joe and Ethan talk with real estate investor and property manager Justin Pogue, author of Rental Secrets, about the current housing affordability crisis.They discuss why home prices remain high while some rents are cooling, the real impact of corporations buying single-family homes, and the surprising rise in people living with roommates even among those over 55.Justin also shares practical insights on how renters can negotiate better and what the market really looks like on the ground.A timely and straightforward conversation about one of the biggest issues facing Americans today.Where to learn more from Justin Pogue:Book: Rental Secrets – Available on AmazonWebsite: rentalsecrets.netFollow @RentalSecrets on social media: (Instagram, Facebook , Twitter/X, LinkedIn)

In this episode, Joe and Ethan dive deep into one of Australia’s most controversial cases — the arrest of decorated war hero Ben Roberts-Smith on war crimes allegations. They explore the Brereton Report, the role of media sensationalism, the psychological reality of soldiers in combat, and the difficult question: how do we judge those we send to war when they come home?The hosts also discuss authority, obedience, and moral injury (with references to the Milgram and Stanford experiments), and how truth gets lost in public opinion.Expect strong opinions, dark humor, and no sugarcoating. Listen until the end for Ethan’s wild personal story from the casino that perfectly illustrates the absurdity of modern “hate crime” enforcement.What do you think: are we holding soldiers to impossible standards after sending them into hell? Or is real accountability long overdue?

In this wild and thought-provoking episode, Joe and Ethan talk with author and psychedelic facilitator Diane Colleen about her debut novel They Could Be Saviors.Diane shares how her own trauma, psychedelic therapy journey, and frustration with extreme wealth inequality inspired a story that blends fiction with radical ideas: billionaire-ism as a mental illness, the power of psychedelics to heal deep wounds, and whether collaboration (not competition) could actually fix the world.From childhood poverty and sexual assault to psychedelic sessions that saved her life — this conversation is provocative, honest, and full of unexpected laughs.Where to learn more from Diana Colleen:https://www.dianacolleenauthor.com/

In this heartwarming episode, Joe and Ethan speak with two remarkable sisters: Relia Skinner(99) and Neoma Soelberg(almost 101), who grew up together in rural Star Valley, Wyoming during the late 1920s and the Great Depression.The sisters share vivid stories of survival, love, and resilience. They talk about big families, music, dating scandals, the joy of simple things, and how life has changed so dramatically in the last 100 years.Funny, touching, and full of wisdom from two women who have seen it all.If you want to hear what life was really like before electricity, refrigerators, phones, and modern comforts — this is the episode for you.

In this powerful episode, Joe and Ethan have an honest and unflinching conversation with Iranian-American activist Zolal Habibi about Iran’s 120-year fight for freedom.Zolal takes us through the painful history: from the 1953 CIA-backed coup that overthrew Iran’s only democratic government, to the 1979 Revolution that was hijacked, the mass executions, forced hijab, and how foreign powers have repeatedly crushed Iran’s hopes for real democracy.She explains why women have become the driving force of resistance, the role of the MEK and organized opposition, and why the Iranian people continue to rise despite brutal repression.

In this episode, Joe and Ethan dive headfirst into the chaos of 2026: Epstein files, Iran conflict, collapsing trust, and the death of shared reality.The hosts explore how we’ve entered the Age of Lies & Tribes, where truth is optional, narratives are weaponized, and everyone is stuck in their own bubble. From government flip-flopping on Iran to the Epstein cover-up drama and the accelerating singularity, this conversation is straight to the point.

Join hosts Joe Edgar and Ethan Krok in this unfiltered, straight-talking conversation unpacking the biggest economic and labor shifts of the decade. This episode digs into why the job market flipped: demographics, cultural withdrawal, gig economy explosion, and the automation paradox that went from “AI will kill jobs” to “we don’t have enough humans to do them.” The hosts break down real family struggles (kids stuck in education limbo), eye-opening charts (participation rates, Anthropic’s AI impact map), and the broader fallout — China’s population crash, Russia’s demographic panic, and the looming reality that labor scarcity is now the defining economic fact. This is the first episode of Season 2, kicking off with the decade’s biggest flip no one saw coming.

Join hosts Joe Edgar and Ethan krok in this in-depth conversation with Lindsay Knerl, an expert in homeschooling with over 20 years of experience educating her six children. This episode explores Lindsay's journey from traditional schooling to homeschooling, her perspectives on the pros and cons of both, and the intricacies involved in balancing career responsibilities with children's education. Discover practical guidance from her book 'Homeschool Hacks' and glean insights into the growing trend of homeschooling, its impact on education, and challenges that come with it. Also, learn about public school systems, trade education, homeschooling policies, and financial strategies for parents considering homeschooling. This is the season finale of 'Hostile Dysfunction,' promising rich, informative content for both seasoned and prospective homeschoolers.

Join Joe Edgar and Ethan Krok as we dive into an engaging conversation with Ian Noble, founder of Run Steady Investments, who shares his unique journey from taking over his father's dry cleaning business to investing in real estate and mobile home parks. Ian provides insights into the challenges and successes of running a small business, navigating family dynamics, and the strategic shift to real estate to maximize investments and reduce tax burdens. Don't miss out on Ian's practical advice for budding entrepreneurs and his thoughts on the current state of capitalism for the younger generation.

Join Joe Edgar and Ethan Krok in this enlightening conversation with Dr. David Hatch from the University of Texas at Austin's Institute of Fusion Studies. We discuss the intricacies of nuclear fusion, the challenges and strides being made in the field, and the future of energy sustainability. Learn about the differences between fusion and fission, the innovative approaches being explored, and the significance of recent advancements. Dr. Hatch also shares insights into the technological hurdles, the role of private sector investment, and the promising outlook for achieving high fusion gain. Tune in to understand how fusion energy could revolutionize our world's power dynamics.

In this episode, hosts Joe Edgar and Ethan Krok dive deep into the complexities of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. They discuss the motivations behind Putin's invasion, the historical context, and the narratives that shape our perceptions. From NATO's influence to the portrayal of Russia in American media, they explore whether the portrayal of Russia as the ultimate enemy is grounded in reality or fueled by propaganda. Tune in as they separate fact from fiction and discuss the global implications of this ongoing conflict.

Join host Joe Edgar and Ethan Krok as they converses with Paul Mussen, author of 'Capital Offense' and investment expert with over 30 years of experience. Paul discusses the reasons behind the widening wealth gap, the effects of central bank policies, and the concept of good deflation. They delve into Paul's journey from an aspiring student in Montreal to a successful career in investment, highlighting the role of interest rates, asset prices, and the importance of informed policy making. Paul shares insights on the housing market crisis, quantitative easing, and the long-term consequences of current economic policies. This episode is packed with valuable knowledge and advice for the next generation as they navigate a challenging economic landscape.

From Israeli Navy to Global Entrepreneur: Meir Ezra's Journey & InsightsJoin Joe Edgar and Ethan krok in a riveting conversation with Meir Ezra, a spiritual entrepreneur and expert in human behavior. Born in Israel and having served in the elite Israeli Navy submarine unit, Meir's journey is nothing short of remarkable. This episode delves into his life in South Africa, the challenges and potentials of the country, and his views on global politics, particularly in Israel and Gaza. Meir shares his unique perspective on education, spirituality, and the essence of good leadership. Don't miss this insightful and thought-provoking discussion!

In this episode of Hostile Dysfunction, hosts Joe Edgar and Ethan Krok explore the complexities and nuances of modern censorship and freedom of speech. They discuss experiences in different countries, the role of media, and the impact of government policies on public discourse. Topics include digital IDs, media manipulation, self-censorship, and the influence of social media and influencers on news dissemination. The hosts also examine how different forms of control—from Russia's coercion to the U.S.'s manipulation—shape public perception and trust in media. Tune in to understand the interconnected chaos shaping the world today.

In this episode, hosts Joe Edgar and Ethan Krok sit down with Paris Cluff, a professional YouTuber and owner of Financial Self-Reliance. Paris shares his fascinating journey from financial downfall, involving risky investments in a Ponzi-like real estate scheme, to rebuilding his life and financial stability. The conversation also delves into Paris's expertise in financial coaching, where he offers actionable advice on budgeting, debt elimination, and smart investing. The discussion takes an intriguing turn as they explore modern conspiracies, including chemtrails, government interventions, and prepping for unforeseen events. Paris emphasizes the importance of preparedness, whether it's financial or survivalist, and leaves viewers with practical tips on how to navigate today's unpredictable world. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation that blends financial wisdom with thought-provoking discussions on contemporary issues.

In this episode, Joe Edgar and Ethan Krok welcome Ralph Estep Jr., an accomplished accountant, author, and host of several financial podcasts. Ralph shares his expertise on the challenges facing the Social Security system, exploring potential solutions such as raising the retirement age, means testing, and addressing government spending. He also provides valuable advice for individuals on how to secure their financial future, emphasizing the importance of starting early with savings and managing personal finances effectively. The conversation delves into Ralph's personal story, including his unique journey into cattle farming and experiences from his upbringing that shaped his passion for empowering people through financial literacy. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted issues surrounding Social Security and practical tips for financial confidence.

Joe Edgar and Ethan Krok dive deep into an engaging conversation with Lynette West, a business professional and single mother, who rose to fame through HBO Max's reality series, 'Milf Manor.' Lynette shares her insightful perspectives on community behavior, societal expectations, and her personal journey through addiction, mental health struggles, and recovery. Discover how she navigated family complexities, personal setbacks, and emerged stronger. Don't miss an inspiring episode filled with raw honesty, resilience, and life lessons.

Join hosts Joe Edgar and Ethan Krok as they navigate through an array of riveting topics including abortion rights, and the potential impact of AI on the future of work and parenting. Delve into discussions about the sociopolitical complexities of reproductive rights, the economic incentives needed to encourage childbearing, and how AI and automation could reshape our society. This episode is packed with engaging conversations, intriguing statistics, and futuristic perspectives that challenge the status quo.

In this episode, hosts Joe Edgar and Ethan krok engage in a lively and insightful conversation with Paul Bauer, a certified master life coach, NLP Practitioner, multi-time author, and host of the 'Come On Man' podcast. Paul shares his personal journey from a challenging marriage to mastering the art of dating and relationships. He discusses his insights on building masculine confidence, navigating the dating world post-divorce, and sustaining long-term relationships. Topics covered include the impact of modern feminism, online dating strategies, the psychology behind attraction, the importance of maintaining physical fitness, and how to keep the spark alive in relationships. Tune in to gain valuable tips and understand the wild, interconnected chaos shaping our world.

The Impact of Villains: From Beards to Global IssuesIn this episode, hosts Joe Edgar and Ethan Krok dive into a wide-ranging discussion on societal villains and grifts.  They explore societal beliefs, norms, and myths that have shaped generational decision-making for better or worse. They delve into how industries like dairy and cigarettes used fear as a marketing tactic, the Y2K scare, the grift around AI, GMOs, greenhouse gases, and more. Each topic serves as an examination of how society creates and reacts to villains, impacting everything from politics to daily life.

In this episode of Hostile Dysfunction, we delve into the future of electricity with special guest Jonathan Blackburn, a principal at Black Moose Financial Group and a clean energy finance expert. Jonathan shares insights about his move from Wichita, Kansas, to Guam, and his extensive background in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in Texas. The discussion covers a range of topics including the impact of AI on electricity demand, the challenges of meeting growing energy consumption, and innovative solutions like geothermal energy and battery storage. Jonathan also highlights the unique energy market in Texas, the role of policy and market design, and the economic opportunities in the energy transition. Tune in to understand the wild, interconnected chaos shaping our world, including the population's decline and all the reasons for it.

Join hosts Joe Edgar and Ethan Crock as they dive into a riveting conversation with Taya Phillips, a mechanical engineer and innovative entrepreneur, on this episode of Hostile Dysfunction. Taya shares her journey from growing up in rural Tennessee to achieving a degree in mechanical engineering from Tennessee Tech University, her impactful experiences at Y-12 National Security Complex, and her inspiration behind inventing the Meta Aflex therapy gloves to aid arthritis patients. They discuss the challenges women face in male-dominated industries, the evolving dynamics of the modern workforce, and the importance of self-care and happiness in personal and professional life. Tune in to discover how Taya is breaking barriers and setting new standards in engineering and entrepreneurship.

 The episode kicks off with a lighthearted story about a drunk driver crashing into a home, but quickly shifts gears to dissect significant current events including Trump’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein, alleged deep state operations, and global political conspiracies. The discussion explores how media narratives and public opinion shape political realities, touching on figures like Rupert Murdoch, Elon Musk, and Julian Maxwell. 

In this episode we discuss the dynamics within the MAGA movement, the controversy around the Epstein files, and the ethical concerns of AI potentially becoming the new gatekeeper for scientific research. The conversation also touches on the impacts of digital democratization of information, the structure of research institutions, and the accountability in science and politics. Join them as they explore how all these elements shape the modern world.

Join us in a riveting discussion with Emmy-nominated filmmaker Justin Schein as we explore his latest documentary 'Death and Taxes', arriving in theaters on July 17th. In this episode, Justin shares personal stories about growing up with a prominent businessman father, the filming process spanning three decades, and the complex themes of inheritance, wealth inequality, and American democracy that his film delves into. His documentary sheds light on the interconnected chaos of our world, focusing on America's division through the lens of fiscal policy and personal legacies. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the nuanced and often contentious topic of wealth transfer and societal responsibility.

In this engaging episode, Maureen Pound, a fearless entrepreneur, real estate investor, and mentor, joins the conversation to discuss her dynamic journey and the release of her book 'How to Get Laid on Tinder.' Maureen shares personal anecdotes, insights into modern dating, and practical advice for men navigating the complexities of romance. We also delve into her unique perspectives on raising children as a single mother, the changes in societal norms, and the increasing support for men in relationships. Whether you’re interested in dating tips, entrepreneurial insights, or the evolving roles of men and women in society, this episode offers a thought-provoking and empowering discussion.

On this episode we're joined by Tommy Kilpatrick, a man who stared credit card debt in the face, laughed, wrote a book about it, and then peaced out to the Philippines. Join us as Tommy reveals the "Break Free!" secrets banks definitely don't want you to know, and shares his surprisingly sane approach to retirement that involves more coconuts and less corporate cubicles. You might just rethink your life choices... or at least your credit card statements.

Dive into the chaotic fallout between Trump and Musk—$270M spent, EV subsidies slashed, and a public spat shaking the GOP. Are Patel and Bondi burying Epstein file secrets? We unpack the deficit drama, MAGA’s rift, and whether Musk’s third-party threats signal a bold move or just 5D chess. Join us for a raw look at power, betrayal, and what’s next.

Interview with Jack Allweil and discussion about real estate investing, pocket listings, Compass and Zillow dispute and rental algorithms. 

Interview with Bezalel Eithan Raviv who is one of 12 children from Israel and operates a Crypto recovery business (LIionsGate.Network). We discuss Crypto, blockchain and the GENIUS Act with an example of a crypto pig butcher scam.

We discuss the over fishing of the world and impact on a declining population, while also learning about Paul Greenberg's time in the Soviet Union and the idea of Trump running for a third term. 

Unpack the eye-watering numbers of US government spending and the wild world of Trump-era deals and alleged grift. Deficits, taxes, and questionable connections – we follow the money trail.

We dive into the White Houses attack on Harvard and pulling funding from higher education and will the US have enough electricity to support an AI boom. 

Tech entrepreneur Alex Harmsen (a millennial himself!) lays down the hard truths about ambition, family planning, and why he believes the past is no excuse for the present. Buckle up for a no-holds-barred conversation.

We interview Dr. Hurst about birth order and how it impacts us all including when a whole society is made up of "the only child" in each family. 

We cover Abrego Garcia's deportation to an El Salvadorian prison and how it related to past time of Covid and the woke movement around the world. 

We discuss if immigration is a good thing, needed, birthright citizenship and xenophobia. 

We discuss tariffs and the impact on the world and how this might impact the US sales of arms. 

Drug overdose have dropped in the US in part due to smoking fentanyl. 

Australians go to the ballets on May 3. Does American politics play a role.

White house defense leadership debates a Yemen airstrike while including a report. Conspiracy and master mind. 

Is NATO spending 5% of GDP good for the US?  Will DOGE find $1T in fraud.  Can the Gold Card raise $1T. 

To do due process or not to do. Gang members sent to prison and being a foreigners with or without rights. 

Did the Right replace DEI with rich and beautiful?  Is Trump his own news scooping reporter. 

Can college graduate even afford a starter home. Is this keeping them from getting married and having kids. 

Day light savings, Crypto fraud, Ukraine war and population decline.