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Episodes
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In this episode, Heddy and Doron discuss the intersection of history and current events, focusing on judicial power and executive authority in both Israel and the United States. They explore historical cases such as Worcester v. Georgia and the implications of habeas corpus during the Civil War, drawing parallels to contemporary issues. The conversation emphasizes the importance of public opinion in the enforcement of laws and the role of the judiciary in maintaining checks and balances.
Chapters
00:00 Introductions
02:18 Intentionally ignoring the supreme court in 1832 Worcester vs Georgia
13:50 Ignoring the Supreme Court in 1861 Ex Parte Marryman
19:42 Analysis: Has ignoring the court created a constitutional crisis?
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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 advice, emphasizing the importance of family and relationships amidst the complexities of history.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:41 Historical Shifts in Alliances
01:39 The Ribbentrop-Molotov Pact and Its Implications
06:33 The Suez Crisis and Changing Power Dynamics
13:32 The Cold War Dynamics: Shifting Alliances
13:43 The Role of the Soviet Union in the Suez Crisis
17:27 Balancing Parenthood and Personal Identity
23:03 Philosophical Perspectives on Parenting and Guilt
26:10 Navigating Life Comparisons
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Missing episodes?
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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 discuss a deeply personal and historical question: When do you know it’s time to leave your home country? A powerful conversation on history, economy, and identity.
Keywords:
tariffs, American history, economic implications, Civil War, nullification crisis, Southern resistance, historical context, Jewish history, immigration, political conflict
Chapters
00:00 Introductions - asking about Tariffs
01:36 The First Political Battle: Hamilton and Tariffs
03:33 Madison's Influence on Tariff Policy
05:50 Economic Implications of Tariffs
07:19 The Shift Towards Protectionism
08:01 How Tariffs almost caused a civil war
10:21 The Nullification Crisis and Federal Authority
16:59 Life Advice: the Jewish question of when do we stay and when do we leave?
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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 the dishes in the sink?
Chapters
00:00 Exploring DEI and Historical Parallels
00:36 The Complexity of DEI Policies
02:05 The Challenges of Forced Busing
04:39 Feminism and Liberation Movements
12:51 Life Advice: Navigating Relationships and Mental Load
19:55 Millennial Men and Feminism
Keywords
DEI, historical context, feminism, life advice, relationships, mental load, integration, societal issues, family dynamics, forced busing, family podcast, millennial, millennial men, 70s, marriage, parents, parenting,
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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 spending?
Then, in the life advice segment, we tackle a common dilemma: How do you know if you're living in the right place? With moving costs high and no way to test-drive a new city, how do you decide whether to stretch for something better or stay put? Doron has a strong take on why betting on yourself is always the right move—Heddy pushes back with some practical considerations.
A mix of history, economics, and real-life decision-making—join us for the conversation.
Ask for advice at https://www.bullshtick.com/
Chapters
01:49 Jefferson Budget Cuts
05:59 Our Historical Reliance on Tariffs
09:48 The Introduction of the Income Tax
12:45 Reagan economic policies
17:50 Life Advice: Choosing the Right Place to Live
Other relevant episodes:
If you liked this episode you might want to listen to our Robber Barron episode published in November 2024: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1hqgzOtHwY4XzDDUBT174M?si=epw1sdOuTgKtLSdKl7NAYQ
Keywords
DOGE, government spending, history, income tax, life advice, family, budgeting, economic policies, personal choices, living location, financial decisions, invest in yourself, Jefferson, Reagan, Reaganomics, President, President Trump,
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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, dressed as humanitarian concern, has resurfaced in unsettling ways.
The conversation also takes a reflective turn as they address how to navigate political debates with family members who hold opposing views. Doron offers some humor-tinged advice: avoid arguments and embrace curiosity instead. Heddy counters with her perspective on the value of hearing alternate viewpoints, even when it’s tough.
From historical analysis to heartfelt family reflections, this episode delivers intellectual depth, personal anecdotes, and a few good laughs—all with the candid charm that defines Life, History, and Everyday Bullshtick.
Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share!
Email us at [email protected] or visit us at www.bullshtick.com
Chapters
00:00 Introductions and banter
01:18 Discussing President Trump's plan to invade and rebuild Gaza
06:01 The Iraq War: A Catastrophic Blunder
08:31 The Mexican-American War: Historical Parallels
15:46 President Trumps unpredictability and appeal
20:34 Navigating Political Differences in Family
26:14 The Value of Diverse Political Perspectives
Keywords
Gaza, US foreign policy, Iraq War, Mexican-American War, Israel, political discourse, family dynamics, Trump, history, current events, Israel, Life Advice
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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 life advice segment addressing personal relationships and forgiveness - especially after divorce.
Email us at [email protected] or visit us at www.bullshtick.com
Read more about Professor Doron Ben-Atar's perspective with his book Trade Secrets
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Chit Chat
01:48 The TikTok Ban and technology movements from country to country
08:26 Russian spying on American spies
12:53 Operation Paperclip and Military Technology
20:34 Life Advice: Forgiving my ex wife after so much pain
31:21 New Chapter
Keywords
TikTok ban, technology transfer, historical parallels, economic competition, spying, American technology, Operation Paperclip, propaganda, life advice, Halacha, Forgiveness,
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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 of presidential pardons. Finally, they offer life advice on regrouping after disappointment, emphasizing the importance of managing expectations and pursuing happiness.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Current Events and Immigration Raids
03:38 1798 Alien and Sedition Act
08:34 1798 French American War
10:35 America's First Mass Deportation: The Palmer Raids
20:56 A mass pardon more controversial than Trump's Jan 6th pardoning
26:10 Life Advice: Regrouping After Disappointment
Keywords
politics, immigration, Trump, historical context, deportation, Alien Act, Palmer Raids, life advice, presidential pardons, personal stories, Alien and Sedition Act, Regrouping after disappointment, Missing hopes and dreams, President Donald Trump, President Andrew Johnson, Planter class, Civil War, French American War, President Thomas Jefferson, Fun, Funny, banter,
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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 conversation transitions into life advice, focusing on the complexities of marriage and the decision to stay or leave a relationship.
If you have feedback or want to ask for life advice, email us at [email protected]
Chapters
00:00 Introductions: Talking about Hostages
02:52 American Hostages taken by Hezbollah in the 1980s
05:23 Hostages taken by Native Americans in the Colonial period
07:53 The Deerfield Massacre and Its Aftermath
14:18 Historical Narratives Analysis
14:39 Piracy and Tribute: The Barbary Pirates and Early America
16:08 Jefferson and the Barbary Pirates: A Turning Point
23:49 Modern Hostage Situations: Lessons from the Past
24:14 Correction from the last episode
25:28 Life Advice: Should I Stay or Should I Go?
Keywords
hostage situations, US history, Iran, Barbary pirates, Deerfield Massacre, life advice, marriage, negotiation, historical analysis, family dynamics, divorce, affairs, Hezbollah, Hamas, October 7th, Israel, Bibas family, Eunice Williams, Jefferson, Early Republic, Early American History, American History
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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 the importance of self-care and support from family.
They also discuss their recent trip to Israel, reflecting on family connections and the personal stakes involved in current events. They discuss a recent tour to Kibbutz Nir Oz which was attacked by Hamas on October 7th and the miraculous survival of their family on that day.
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Chapters
00:00 Introductions
00:32 Personal reflections on October 7th and Kibbutz Nir Oz
03:26 Los Angeles wildfires and historical fires
04:38 64 CE - The Great Fire of Rome
12:44 1666 - The Great Fire of London and its impact on Slavery in America
19:46 1871 - The Chicago Fire
22:45 Predictions for a rebuilt Los Angeles after the LA fires of 2025
29:25 Advice: Making time for your partner
Keywords
family, history, wildfires, resilience, personal stakes, life advice, relationships, parenting, historical fires, rebuilding, Rome, Los Angeles wildfires, Chicago Fire, London Fire, Slavery, American History, Israel, Jewish, Ancient History
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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 Deal, and how these changes reflect broader societal shifts.
Life advice: The discussion also delves into personal growth and the human tendency to compare oneself to others, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one's unique journey and the value of gratitude.
Link to Doron Ben-Atar's book written with his mother "What Time and Sadness Spared: Mother and Son confront the Holocaust"
Chapters
00:00 Intros & Experiencing War (A Personal Account)
02:50 The Republican Party born from the Mexican American War
05:32 The Kansas-Nebraska Act and Its Implications
06:51 The Rise of the Republican Party
09:19 Republican Ideology: From Anti-Slavery to Individual Rights
12:15 The Civil War and Reconstruction Era
14:16 The Shift in Republican Identity Post-Reconstruction
16:42 The Progressive Era and Republican Reforms
19:08 The New Deal and Its Impact on Republican Ideology
24:28 Navigating Life Comparisons
Keywords
Republican Party, history, evolution, civil war, life advice, personal growth, political ideology, comparison, self-worth, family dynamics, Fordham University, Fordham, Professor, American History, Israel, Current events, Government Shutdown, News, Kansas-Nebraska Act, Slavery, Reconstruction, New Deal, Boomer, Millenial, Stop comparing myself, Life advice, Personal advice, Fatherly advice, Jealous,
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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 podcast shifts to life advice, focusing on building community and making friends, especially in transient environments.
Chapters
00:00 Intros and Who is Professor Doron Ben-Atar
03:17 Modern Syria - from today's revolution to ancient history
06:03 Modern Syria established in World War I
08:16 Syria as a Mandate post World War II
10:42 The Syrian Refugee Crisis and Global Implications
12:13 The rise of the Assad Regime post World War II
16:47 Syria and Iran - the development of the alliance
22:08 Historical Context of Syria and Its Ethnic Diversity
23:43 Navigating Life Advice: Finding a best friend as an adult
36:53 Outro & credits
Keywords
Syria, history, Hafez al-Assad, Syrian Civil War, Iran, community, life advice, podcast
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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 marriages and Jewish identity. The conversation is rich with insights, humor, and personal anecdotes, making it both informative and relatable.
Chapters
00:00 Chit chat about Italy and Taylor Swift
01:57 Introductions
05:05 Military Coups in American History
06:12 Hamilton Musical and what actually happened to Aaron Burr
13:10 The Life and Legacy of Aaron Burr
18:46 The Duel: Burr vs. Hamilton
20:44 Interfaith Marriages and Jewish Identity
28:07 Credits
Keywords
Italy, podcast, life advice, military coups, democracy, Aaron Burr, interfaith marriage, Jewish identity, historical perspective, political landscape, Hamilton Musical
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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 Welcome to our podcast - visit bullshtick.com
01:26 Isolationism vs. Interventionism in American History
08:01 Are we headed toward isolationism today?
14:47 Life Advice Segment: Navigating Friendships and Relationships
22:34 Credits and music
Keywords: Monroe Doctrine, American Isolationism, World War I, Neutrality Laws, Cold War, Trump, Global Policeman
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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, and concludes with a thoughtful discussion on work, identity, and generational differences in attitudes towards employment.
Chapters
00:00 Jumping Jacks and Podcast Introductions
02:27 Cabinet Nominations in American History
12:37 The Complexity of Andrew Jackson
15:10 Matt Gaetz and the democratic party
17:56 Life Advice: Work and Identity - A Generational Perspective
Keywords
podcast, history, cabinet nominations, Andrew Jackson, Thanksgiving, political dynamics, work identity, generational differences
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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, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in navigating differing perspectives.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Family Dynamics
00:46 Understanding the Feldenkrais Method
04:55 History of Robber Barron Era in America
09:15 Deflation vs. Inflation: Economic Implications
13:24 Life advice
25:32 Break
26:12 New Chapter
