Critical Wade Theory

When we teach folktales, we often treat them like containers. Open the story. Extract the lesson. Close the book. Be kind. Be brave. Don’t lie. Message received. Next story. But what if that’s the least interesting thing a folktale can do?

In 2003, The Mars Volta released De-Loused in the Comatorium — an album that didn’t just enter the world of rock music… it detonated inside it. A chaotic, beautiful, terrifying journey through addiction, hallucination, and rebirth. Part punk, part jazz, part cosmic meltdown. This was no ordinary debut. Cover art from Gold Standard Laboratories / Universal Records / Strummer., Fair use, https://en....

I'm going to look at Trump the pirate. Also: How Nancy Reagan actually helped create the scenario we are in, and how her story reflects conservative or right-wing hypocrisy. Also also: I look at one of the unique scandals of Charlton Heston and how that issue could be unifying between both traditional conservatives and the far left...but sadly isn't.

I get into how thinking about magical realism as a narrative mode is fascinating, and how it encourages a person to think about narrative modes in general, and the almost magical (and sometimes bizarre, powerful, and potentially frightening) nature of words.

Apologies if I covered some pf these Yooper topics before...but I also don't have that many regular listeners anyway, so it probably works out.

The big lie is still a big lie.

Reviewing America's Surveillance State, a 2014 TV mini-series that takes a hard look at the extent of government surveillance in the United States, particularly in the aftermath of 9/11.

Talking about A Christmas Story 2, the direct to video sequel to the 1983 classic A Christmas Story. It arrived almost thirty years after the original and came from a completely different creative team. My honest thoughts...and a few dishonest ones, just to keep you on your toes.

Trump's hypocrisy on drug trafficking is absolutely mind-blowing, Also, I critique the US military (Yes, you read that right! I am doing the unthinkable)).

The Orb’s Adventures Beyond the Ultraworld, released in 1991, is one of the albums that showed the world what ambient house could be when it drifted away from the dance floor and into its own headspace.

Today, we’re rewinding to the very first episode of Elena of Avalor — “First Day of Rule.”

TRIO programs have faced repeated threats of federal cuts, including proposals by the Trump administration to reduce or eliminate funding for several college access initiatives. For students in rural or low income communities, these programs are often the only structured path toward college readiness. The possibility of losing them raised alarms among educators nationwide who pointed out that TRIO...

If a first date didn’t go well, should you give a second one a chance?

The seed for “Hellraiser” was planted during a jam session between Ozzy Osbourne, Zakk Wylde, and Lemmy Kilmister.

Trump is using violence to justify bashing immigrants AGAIN. Also, I am going to get into the history of Ronald Reagan, and then Gerald Ford's biggest scandal and how it's impact is still being felt today, even if seldom acknowledged by the press, or even most anti-authoritarian activists. Image: Trump and wife Ivana met with President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan at a 1985 st...

Today I am talking about wolves once more. Not the ones in the woods, but the ones who walk around looking like everyone else. The ones who smile, might speak softly, and say gentle things while hiding their darker thoughts and instincts behind their warmer mask. And no, I am not just talking about people like Ted Bundy this time. I am also talking about ordinary people, who might not be outright...

Talking about Fulfillingness’ First Finale, released in July 1974 on Motown’s Tamla label.

The Empire is in full control. The Jedi Order is gone. And the man once known as General Kenobi is trying to disappear...

More talk about fairytales...

What makes Ted Bundy so scary...and how he changed society.

A (probably lackluster and rambling) tribute to Ozzy Osbourne.

Today’s episode is all about something you think you know — fairy tales, language, and how we learn to be who we are. Episode art by Otto Kubel

I discuss Clay Higgins' stated position on his Epstein vote. I also address how corrupt Democratic politicians like Edwin Edwards helped give rise to MAGA. And, hey, what would a discussion of Louisiana politics be without mentioning Huey Long and his scandalous power-grabbing? I get into that as well, and why it further validates "radical" critiques of power.

It’s a question that comes up a lot — especially online. If liberals champion tolerance and acceptance, why do they seem unwilling to extend that same courtesy to conservatives? At first glance, it feels like hypocrisy. But the confusion really lies in what “acceptance” means — and what it doesn’t.

Rewinding to 2008 — the moment Ty Segall officially stepped into the spotlight with his self-titled debut. It’s loud, it’s messy, it’s short — and it’s the spark that lit one of the most relentless creative streaks in garage rock.