Escaping The Cave: The Toddzilla X-pod

The show returns to familiar form after a short baseball hiatus. Recorded on October 7th, 2024, this episode marks the anniversary by delving back into the thrilling and happy world of politics, disinformation, and the psychology of propaganda. In this episode, Todd reflects on his podcasting journey, revealing the challenges of balancing different content themes. He candidly discusses the internal conflict of addressing varied topics, from propaganda and anti-woke content to his passion for baseball, and the impact of audience expectations on content creation while examining the near-futility of attempting objectivity amidst the proliferation of propaganda and the growing divide between ideological extremes. The conversation shifts to the global political scene, with Todd offering insights into the escalating tensions in Lebanon and the broader Middle Eastern region. Toddzilla shares his evolving stance on political and social issues, highlighting his anti-woke and anti-Marxist perspectives while again conte

Recapping an eventful week in Tigers' history highlighted by an iconic Andy Ibañez game winning hit, Todd recaps the Astros series and looks ahead to Detroit's date with the Cleveland Indians/Guardians. Also, Pete Rose is gone, Terry Francona is back, Bob Uecker was crushed, and there was no Hinch-Jobe controversy! The kid did fine. Playoff baseball! How's your ticker?    Like it? Share it!  More: https://toddzillax.substack.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@ToddZillaX

This episode focuses on the Detroit Tigers' games with Tampa and Chicago and their journey to finally clinching an improbable wild card spot in the 2024 MLB playoffs. Recorded on September 30th, Todd recounts his voice-killing experience at Comerica Park for the Tigers' Thursday game against the Tampa Bay Rays. Listen as he describes the electric atmosphere, the nail-biting moments, and the unforgettable comeback win highlighted by Matt Vierling's now-iconic scream. Todd shares his personal anecdotes, including one new superstition that seemed to influence the game’s outcome! The episode also covers the Tigers' series against the Chicago White Sox, the strategic decisions made by both teams, and the implications of those games on the Tigers' playoff pitching staff. Todd provides insights into the performances of key players like Tarik Skubal, Riley Greene, and Jackson Jobe, and discusses the potential playoff roster and pitching strategies. As the Tigers prepare to face the Houston Astros in the wild card rou

As the Tigers charge towards the MLB playoffs, Todd recaps an epic weekend series in Baltimore, Tarik Skubal's Cy Young clinching dominance in the series opener against the Rays, and the simultaneous collapse of the Twins & Royals. What was less than a half-percent chance of making the playoffs a month ago has skyrocketed to above 80% with five huge games remaining!  Also, why Monday's "sudden" Jackson Jobe call-up didn't surprise him and how that bold move may foreshadow a drastic change in organizational behavior. Juan Soto? Why not? Really! Why the hell not?!? It's a good time to be a sports fan in Michigan!   Like it? Subscribe & share it!  

Recapping a monumental week and looking ahead to a pivotal series in Baltimore as the cinderella Detroit Tigers continue their improbable charge toward the MLB playoffs. Also: 50/50 obviously isn't what it used to be, but regardless: is Ohtani already a Hall of Famer?    Like it? Share it! More: https://www.youtube.com/@ToddZillaX https://toddzillax.substack.com/

It's another baseball themed X-Pod! In this episode, Todd dives into the surprising performance of the Detroit Tigers as they remain in the wild card hunt.  Todd analyzes the Tigers' recent series against the Colorado Rockies, highlighting performances from players like Keider Montero, Spencer Torkelson and Casey Mize. He also discusses the potential 2024 impact of Jackson Jobe's promotion to AAA and speculates on the team's future moves, including the possibility of signing big names like Pete Alonso and Juan Soto. The episode also covers trade insights, particularly the Jack Flaherty trade, and its positive impact on the Tigers' roster. Todd reflects on the team's financial flexibility and how it might shape their offseason strategy. As the Tigers gear up for a crucial series against the Baltimore Orioles, Todd emphasizes the importance of maintaining momentum and staying competitive. Don't miss this in-depth analysis and passionate commentary on all things Detroit Tigers! (Description written by my adoring

In Episode 143, Todd delves into the unprecedented media campaign surrounding Kamala Harris in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election. Recorded on September 10, 2024, Todd offers a blunt analysis of the media's unified efforts to promote Harris while, in a chorus line, condemning Donald Trump. Todd reflects on past episodes from 2019 and 2020, specifically the relationship between informational anarchy and the demand for gatekeepers. He discusses the upcoming debate between Harris and Trump, focusing on media bias and the questions posed to each candidate. Todd also explores the broader implications of advocacy journalism (literally propaganda!) and the erosion of objective reporting, questioning the role of major news outlets like the Associated Press. The episode also touches on Kamala Harris's past radical positions, her lack of press conferences, and the media's failure to hold her accountable. Todd highlights the dangers of a truth ministry and the potential consequences of policing speech, refere

The Tigers are still in the Wild Card chase while the Lions open the season in grand overtime fashion against an old friend. And his wife thinks it's somehow about...her?    Like it? Subscribe & Share! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjdLR140l--HufeRSAnj91A

"And now for something completely different!" Welcome to episode 142 of "Escaping the Cave", the first official baseball X-Pod. Recorded August 30, 2024, this episode dives into Major League Baseball, focusing primarily on the Detroit Tigers' unexpected push for a wild card spot. Todd reflects on the Tigers' recent hot streak, their growing playoff hopes, the dynamics of the team’s young talents like Torkelson and Meadows, the return of key players like Casey Mize, and the bullpen games that have surprisingly kept the Tigers competitive. In an improvised nostalgic twist, Todd recounts his personal experiences working at Coors Field & Tiger Stadium, offering vivid anecdotes about George Frazier as well as legendary figures like Vin Scully, Ernie Harwell, Todd Helton, and Bob Uecker.  Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or simply love a good sports story, this episode mixes of current insights, historical context, and personal reflections about America's pastime.    Like it? Subscribe & Share! More:

After Biden dropped out, the gaslighting political propaganda machine has tried to rehabilitate Kamala's image from that of a detested and isolated liability to George Washington, Arya Stark, and Joan of Abortion Arc. What do Trump's would-be assassin and Nashville's murderous trans woman have in common? And where has the coverage gone? Some positions, like the Secret Service and President, demand merit-based hiring not "diversity" quotas. We're finally paying the price.  Can constant exposure to propaganda lead to a twisted form of tolerance, changing the way individuals perceive, react to, and accept factual information? If so, what happens when that trust completely, and inevitably breaks down? Book those children's parties now!    Like it? Share it! https://toddzillax.substack.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjdLR140l--HufeRSAnj91A

Also: DEI's Trojan Horse, Addicted to Chaos In this sobering episode, Todd digs into these historic nine days, beginning with the rapidly decaying social landscape following the assassination attempt on Trump, the media's telling reaction, the lack of real information about the shooter and his motives, and trial by rhetorical combat disguised as public "discourse." Recorded just 12-hours after Joe Biden's long overdue withdrawal from the presidential race, and the rapid endorsement of his DEI poster girl, he then revisits the folly of continuing Unity Via Division as a political tactic in a dangerously divided nation. Also: the enduring power of patriotism versus Utopian socialist fantasy and how both technology and ignoring human nature is deepening the divide. It's still, and always has been, the people.    Like it? Share it! https://toddzillax.substack.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjdLR140l--HufeRSAnj91A

Welcome to the latest episode of the Escape in the Cave podcast, #139, recorded on July 1st, 2024. This episode dives into the chaotic aftermath of Biden's disturbing performance. Todd dissects Biden's decline by comparing his sharpness in the 2012 VP debate against Paul Ryan to his recent ineptitude then raises critical questions about Biden's fitness for office, especially given the stark decline in his mental acuity just over the last couple of years. The discussion extends to the Democratic Party's responsibility and their handling of Biden's candidacy, emphasizing the critical need for a viable alternative rather than . Todd also explores the media's reaction in the wake of Biden's exposure, particularly CNN's panel, which starkly contrasted previous defenses of Biden. The episode also touches upon potential replacement candidates like Kamala "Of Color" Harris, Gretchen Whitmer, and Gavin Newsom, specifically criticizing Kamala Harris, reflecting on her past primary embarrassment and her suitability as B

In episode 138 of Toddzilla's podcast, recorded on June 27th, 2024, Todd muses on the rapid passage of time and the peculiar spring weather in Michigan. The episode takes a deeper dive into the possible impact of climate change, pondering whether the weather changes will be all "bad", and revisits the folly of choosing performative prevention programs instead of acceptance and adaptation.  Transitioning from weather to ideology, Todd again takes on one of his favorite topics, the socialist facade, and critiques the fervor of activism in general, arguing that rabid self-righteous zealotry may boomerang into being counterproductive. He explores the notion of moral certitude leading to crusading moral imperatives and how these things inevitably lead to tyrannical divisiveness rather than unity. Todd also touches on historical narratives, discussing the portrayal of Native Americans and blacks as "helpless" and in need of a savior, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging agency and the complexities of history

Welcome to episode 137 of "Escaping the Cave," hosted by the ever-lovable Toddzilla. In this episode, Todd delves into the impact of modern psychotherapy on today's youth, referencing Abigail Shrier's eye-opening book, Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up. Recorded on June 11th, 2024, Todd explores how therapeutic practices may inadvertently harm rather than heal, creating a generation unprepared for life's challenges. Todd also shares his admiration for Bill Maher's ability to call out his own political tribe, highlighting Maher's recent interview with John Fetterman. The discussion touches on Fetterman's moral clarity regarding Israel and Gaza and his stance against the woke faction within his party. The episode further investigates the societal impact of manufactured and monetized rumination, the habit of obsessing over negative aspects of life, and how this can lead to widespread depression. Todd connects this to social media's role in perpetuating constant negativity and the broader implications f

Welcome to episode 136 of Escaping the Cave, hosted by the "ever-congenial" Todd. In this episode, Todd delves into the chaotic landscape of censorship and modern information warfare. After a brief update on recent personal events, Todd transitions into a deep discussion about the impact of rapid information dissemination on society, drawing parallels with the current conflict in Gaza and domestic issues. He reflects on the tribalism inherent in human nature, referencing the famous "Eagles & Rattlers" experiment and illustrating how instantaneous global connectivity has ironically led to greater division and misinformation. Todd explores the psychological unpreparedness for the digital age and the rise of misinformation and propaganda, emphasizing the profound implications of artificial intelligence and deepfakes on public perception. He revisits classic theories by Walter Lippmann and Harold Lasswell, examining the debate between free speech, "benevolent" censors, and the need for effective debate to unc

This episode touches on the Stormy Daniels show trial, the Democrat's cowardly online convention strategy, falling for the barbaric propaganda-driven strategy of using of human shields in Gaza, and maliciously labeling Israel's retaliation as genocide. Has Dementia Joe's forgotten who he is? Does he know whose side he's on? At what point does endless activism trigger apathy and begin having a retrograde effect on public sympathy? Want to escape an abstract utopian worldview? Live in Chicago for a few years! Finally, where is the agitprop coming from? What's the goal?   Like it? Share it! More: https://toddzillax.substack.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjdLR140l--HufeRSAnj91A  

It took 65-years to get from Kittyhawk to the moon. 55-years later, we still have gone no further. That's ridiculous! Exploration is, and always has been, humanity at its authentic best. The bleeding hearts and homebody naysayers don't matter. Mars is this millennium's New World and we'll go because we always go, eventually. It's engrained into the DNA and it's our duty, especially if you believe there's a climate crisis.    Like it? Share it! More: https://toddzillax.substack.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjdLR140l--HufeRSAnj91A RE27

A followup to the last episode. After watching our indoctrinated sleeper cells come to life, it's a good time to revisit Ellul's book, Propaganda, and put it thru the filter of the last few weeks.    Notes from 2019: Ellul's ideas on pre-propaganda, propaganda's conditioned reflexes, myths, and "orthopraxy". Including the triggering of active and passive action (activists, influencers, collaborators), widespread participation by "committed" zealots, the separation between thought and action, exploiting the abyss between what we say and what we do, mobilizing men for action counter to their own values, and being unable to reverse ourselves once "action" has begun.   Jacques Ellul's "Propaganda": https://www.amazon.com/Propaganda-Formation-Attitudes-Jacques-Ellul/dp/0394718747 Like it? Share it! More: https://toddzillax.substack.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjdLR140l--HufeRSAnj91A   SM7B

Biden's dismal poll numbers confirm it: a pwesident hunting two wabbits catches neither. Plus, Dementia Joe gets conquered by his own teleprompter begging the question: who's in charge over there? Also: When defective self-esteem pseudoscience collides with social eugenics The Indoctrinated come of age When a President kneels before the Dearborn Caliphate. Look for a follow up episode soon.    Like it? Share it! More: https://toddzillax.substack.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjdLR140l--HufeRSAnj91A   SM7B

Strange times indeed. This week, Todd delves back into the fundamental conflict between fighting propaganda and our basic human nature ; when it comes to informational warfare, reason is NOT a factor, and the man who believes it is goes to battle unarmed. There may be three realistic options. He also explores Chris Rufo's theory about how Mao's Long March influenced Marxist strategy, led to systematic social eugenics, and eventually the institutional takeover now represented by this new artificial breed: Mao's Surrogate Grandchildren.     Like it? Share it! https://toddzillax.substack.com https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjdLR140l--HufeRSAnj91A