Life, History, and Everyday Bullshtick

Summary

In this episode of 'Life, History, and Everyday Bullshtick', Heddy and Doron Ben-Atar explore significant historical events and their implications on modern politics, particularly focusing on the Nazi-Soviet Pact and the Suez Crisis. They discuss the shifting alliances in global politics and how these historical moments resonate in today's world. The conversation also touches on personal reflections and life ...

This conversation explores the historical significance of tariffs in American history, their economic implications, and the political conflicts they incited. What do tariffs have to do with Civil War tensions? A lot more than you might think. In this episode, we dive into the history of tariffs, from Alexander Hamilton's early economic battles to the 19th-century struggles between the North and South. Then, we shift gears to di...

The Trump administration is taking aim at DEI—but what are the historical parallels to diversity initiatives, and when does criticism cross the line into something worse? Heddy and Doron dig into forced busing, integration efforts, and how well-intended policies can backfire. Plus, in life advice: What do you do when your partner just doesn’t share the mental load? And why do millennial men think they’re feminists… but still leave ...

Is cutting government spending always a good idea? In this episode of Life, History, and Everyday Bullshtick, Heddy and Doron Benatar dive into the history of government efficiency (or inefficiency), from Thomas Jefferson’s drastic budget cuts and their unintended consequences to the rise of income tax and Reagan’s contradictory economic policies. What can these moments in history tell us about today’s debates on government spendin...

In this episode, Heddy Stern and her father, Professor Doron Benatar, tackle the shocking news of a U.S. proposal to invade Gaza under the guise of "economic development." Doron shares his frustration with the lack of planning in modern political strategies, comparing Trump's recent announcement to historical examples like the U.S.-Mexico War and the invasion of Iraq. Together, they explore how imperialist rhetoric, d...

In this episode, Heddy and her father, Professor Doron Ben-Atar, discuss a range of topics from personal updates to the implications of the TikTok ban. They explore historical parallels related to technology transfer, economic competition, and the role of spying in global dynamics. The conversation also delves into America's historical technological leadership and the impact of propaganda in media. The episode concludes with a ...

Heddy Ben-Atar talks to her father, Fordham Professor Doron Ben-Atar, about President Donald Trump's Day 1 executive orders, including mass deportation and historic political pardons, and other historical parallels to Trump's actions. They delve into the Alien Act of 1798, the Palmer Raids, and personal stories of deportation's impact. The discussion also touches on immigration challenges globally and the significance o...

In this episode, Heddy and her father, Professor Doron Ben-Atar, explore historical hostage situations in the US, including the Iranian hostage crisis, Hezbollah capturing American hostages, the actions of Barbary pirates, and the 1704 Deerfield massacre and hostage taking. They discuss the implications of these events on current hostage negotiations, particularly in relation to the ongoing situation between Israel and Hamas. The c...

Summary

In this episode, Heddy and Fordham Professor Doron Ben-Atar reflect on the Los Angeles Fires happening today and delve into historical fires, including the Great Fire of Rome, the Great Fire of London, and the Chicago Fire. They explore their impacts on society and the symbolism of rebirth and resilience.

The conversation shifts to life advice, focusing on the challenges of maintaining a loving marriage while parenting and...

Current event: Last week the republicans opposed a budget proposal that almost led to a government shutdown. That made us think about the history of the Republican party. How did they evolve into the party they are today?

History: Heddy and Professor Doron Ben-Atar discuss the historical evolution of the Republican Party. They explore the party's origins, its transformation through significant events like the Civil War and the New ...

Summary

In this episode, Heddy and Doron Benatar explore the historical context of Syria, discussing its evolution from biblical times to the present day. Doron shares his extensive background in American history and how it relates to understanding Middle Eastern history. The conversation delves into the rise of Hafez al-Assad, the impact of the Syrian Civil War, and the alliance between Syria and Iran. The latter part of the podc...

In this engaging father-daughter podcast, Doron and Heddy explore a variety of themes ranging from personal experiences in Italy to significant historical events and their implications on modern society. Aaron Burr's political career serves as a cautionary tale about ambition and ethics. They delve into the political landscape, discussing military coups and democracy, while also reflecting on the life advice surrounding interfaith ...

Diving into the History: Heddy and Professor Doron Ben-Atar explore the themes of American interventionism versus isolationism, providing historical context and personal insights. They discuss Washington's farewell address, the Monroe Doctrine, and other historical views on American Isolationism.

Life advice: A woman in her 30s is hurt that the her male friend ended a friendship after getting engaged - should he apologize?

00:00 W...

Heddy and Doron explore a variety of topics ranging from personal anecdotes related to Thanksgiving to a deep dive into the historical context of cabinet nominations in the U.S. They discuss the complex legacy of Andrew Jackson, touching on his controversial policies and the impact of his presidency. The conversation shifts to contemporary political dynamics, particularly focusing on Matt Gaetz's recent withdrawal from a nomination...

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Heddy Ben-Atar and her father Professor Doron Ben-Atar explore a variety of topics ranging from personal anecdotes to historical analysis. They discuss the Feldenkrais Method, the socio-economic dynamics of the Robber Baron era, and the impact of inflation and deflation on society. The conversation also delves into the complexities of maintaining friendships amidst political disagreements, em...