Pro-Democracy Protests in Thailand, Rising Fascism in the U.S., and the Anti-Austerity Uprising in Greece with Joshua Stephens (Ep 157)

Learn how conspiracy theories, class dynamics, and media blind spots can shape political movements across borders today. ============================ Get the Monday Minute my weekly email with 3 personal recs for travel, culture, and living beyond borders you can read in 60 seconds. ============================ ON THIS EPISODE Joshua Stephens shares his experience in the “Occupy Wall Street” movement in New York City, and explains how he then transitioned into the nomad lifestyle which he has maintained for nearly a decade.  He shares his experience traveling to Egypt during the Arab Spring to interview local activists, and also reflects on his experiences with Israeli “Pinkwashing”.  Joshua then talks about his experience on the ground in Athens during the Greek anti-austerity protests and explains many of the more nuanced dynamics that did not get much coverage.  He then defines “fascism” and provides context and explanation for its recent rise in the U.S. Joshua addresses the role of conspiracy theories in the fascist project, and contextualizes the QAnon and anti-vaccine conspiracies.  He also discusses the politics of negation, the proliferation of anti-mask and anti-vax sentiment, and its significance in this political climate.  Joshua then talks about the pro-democracy uprising in Thailand which he has been documenting while living in Bangkok for most of the last 18 months.  He explains wealth inequality in Thailand, as well as the institutional arrangements with the military and the monarchy.  Joshua then explains the class dynamics, as well as the role of skateboarding culture in this uprising.  He reflects on some of its most unique attributes, and why it is getting so little coverage in the media. → Full show notes with direct links to everything discussed are available here. ============================ FIND YOUR NEXT EPISODE Explore The Maverick Show Starter Packs — some of my favorite conversations curated by theme so you can easily find the episodes that match your interests. ============================ FREE RESOURCES FOR YOU See my Top 10 Travel Apps See my Top 10 Books that Shaped the Way I Travel See my 7 Keys For Building A Remote Business (Even in a space that’s not traditionally virtual) Watch my Video Training on Stylish Minimalist Packing so you can join #TeamCarryOn See the Travel Gear I Use and Recommend See How I Produce The Maverick Show Podcast (The equipment, services & vendors I use) ============================ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Follow The Maverick Show on Instagram and DM Matt to continue the conversation Please leave a rating and review — it really helps the show and I read each one personally Support the show by buying me a coffee — espressos help me produce significantly better podcast episodes!