Rethinking Heroes with Cary Harrison Rethinking Heroes

In the latest episode of "Rethinking Heroes with Cary Harrison," we feature critical discussions on the consequences of wrongful arrests, highlighting the case of Ian Murray, a U.S. military veteran who fought to clear his name against wrongful charges by the ambitious Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. Then, Open Phones and an actual AI-created video sample of Donald Trump defending his "toadstool-like penis”, as witnessed by Stormy Daniels under oath.
This epsisode with Mr. Murray and more broadly through later phone calls, elaborates on the importance of self-advocacy, the role of peaceful protests, and parallels with historical movements. The episode also addresses challenges to free speech and activism, exploring perspectives on the Kent State massacre, legal restrictions on climate change discourse in Florida, and arrest tactics against activists like Jill Stein. It further examines the militarization of police, the US and Germany's role in the Gaza conflict, and controversial legislation against criticizing Israel. Emphasizing the significance of nonviolent resistance, the episode underscores the need for maintaining free speech and critical thinking in the face of power misuse and misinformation.
**The Struggle for Truth**
Ian's story begins upon his return from deployment, where he was unjustly swept into the nightmare of wrongful arrests, a plight that unfortunately isn't rare in our society today. Unpacking the layers of Ian's experiences, Cary navigates through the complex interaction between military service, public perception, and the often misunderstood realities of legal battles against unfounded charges.
**A Veteran's Fight Against False Accusations**
Ian Murray stood firm against the waves of misconception and defamation that followed a baseless accusation of misusing military leave—a charge that seemed as ludicrous as it was groundless. His odyssey wasn't just a personal battle; it was a stark illumination of how swiftly and severely the machinery of misunderstanding and prejudice can operate against veterans and citizens alike.
**The Legal Labyrinth and Public Perception**
Ian's narrative is a sobering reminder of the scars left by wrongful arrests, scars that persist even after legal victories. These battles are not solely fought in courtrooms but in the court of public opinion, where the shadows of misjudgment can linger far longer than any legal proceeding. The episode delves into the complexities of restoring one's reputation in the digital age—a task as daunting as any legal fight.
**The Role of Critical Media**
"Rethinking Heroes" also brings into focus the vital role of media in shaping narratives around public figures and controversial issues. In an era where misinformation can spread like wildfire, Cary Harrison's nuanced exploration of Ian's journey shines as a beacon of responsible journalism, providing a platform for truth and fostering a more informed public discourse.
**Conclusion: The Continuous Fight for Justice**
As "Rethinking Heroes" concludes, listeners are left with a sense of gravity regarding the challenges that lie in the quest for justice, but also with a feeling of inspiration from the courage displayed by individuals like Ian Murray. It's a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle many face in seeking to clear their names and reclaim their lives amidst unfounded accusations and societal misconceptions.
In every episode, "Rethinking Heroes" not only tells a story but also poses a challenge to its listeners—to engage, think critically, and advocate for a just and informed society. Ian Murray's perseverance and the scrutiny of his and others' stories through this platform encourage a deeper understanding of the nuanced truths that shape our perceptions of heroism, justice, and redemption in the contemporary world.
00:00 Introduction to Rethinking Heroes with Keri Harrison
00:40 The Evolution of Call-ins and Live Streaming
01:54 Unveiling the True Crime Story of a Wronged V

Rebuilding Reputations: A Hollywood Actor’s Legal Battle for Justice
You’ll remember a few months ago we broke the story about now-dismissed sexting charges from the LA DA’s office. In what reads like a screenplay full of twists and turns, Hollywood actor Joseph Gatt, renowned for his roles in 'Game of Thrones,' 'Thor,' and 'True Detective,' found himself at the heart of a legal whirlwind after being falsely accused of sexual misconduct with a minor. Now, he has initiated a $40M lawsuit against Los Angeles County, DA George Gascón, among others, claiming his career was unjustly sabotaged by baseless allegations of communicating inappropriately with a minor - which was later dismissed. Gatt contends that sloppy investigative work led to a premature announcement of felony charges, which were later disproved by forensic analysis showing the evidence had been tampered with. The fallout from these accusations has had a catastrophic effect on his life, both professionally and personally, with Joseph Gatt estimating a loss of $40 million in potential earnings.
Joseph Gatt's fight to clear his name and rebuild his Hollywood career is a stark reminder of the complex interplay between law, media, and the people caught in their crosshairs – including his partner, Mercy Malick, and attorney, Dean Pamphilis. We share insights into the flaws in the criminal justice system, highlighting the importance of accountability and the need for systemic change to protect individuals from similar injustices.
00:00 Explosive Follow-Up: LA Actor's Legal Battle Against False Accusations
00:24 Special Home Buying Hotline: Turning Problems into Cash
01:26 Inside the Story: Joseph Gatt's Fight for Justice and Reputation
04:52 Legal Insights: The Battle for Accountability and Change
10:00 Rebuilding from the Ruins: Strategies for Public Figures Facing False Accusations
28:04 Riverside Recovery: A Holistic Approach to Addiction Treatment
29:38 Closing Thoughts: Appreciation and Future Engagements

RethinkingHeroes.com
Follow Cary Harrison on TikTok: @TheCaryHarrison
#RethinkingHeroes, #JusticeForJosephGatt, #LegalJustice, #MediaAccountability, #InnocentUntilProvenGuilty, #ReputationBuilding, #HollywoodInjustice, #SocialMediaImpact, #CelebrityDefense, #EndLegalOverreach


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The Future of AI in Social Networks & The Threats of Project 2025
Cary Harrison takes you into the evolution of social networks led by Meta, formerly Facebook, towards the creation of synthetic social networks utilizing AI to generate chatbots mimicking celebrities and creators. He discusses the growing interest in AI interactions, the shift in the meaning of friendships due to social media, and how our interactions may become indistinguishable between humans and bots. Interviewed is Ed Watal, a tech expert who discusses the potential misuse of AI, including deepfakes and cyber threats, alongside his work on an Ethical AI Platform. Later, superhero Anne Nelson exposes 'Project 2025,' a secretive initiative aimed at dismantling government and civil liberties. (Anne Nelson, author of 'Shadow Network') highlights the project's dangers, including its impact on environmental policies and civil liberties, gays, guns, and all of Europe.
Part 1.
Navigating the Ethical Maze of AI in Social Media: The Rise of Synthetic Relationships**
In the digital age, the intersection of technology, social media, and artificial intelligence (AI) has reshaped our lives in unprecedented ways. As we delve into this complex web, the emergence of "synthetic relationships" fostered by AI, particularly through platforms like Meta (formerly Facebook), presents a paradigm shift in how we interact online.
By introducing chatbots mimicking celebrities, Meta has laid the foundation for a future where digital personas and synthetic relationships flourish. The concept might sound bizarre, but it underscores a reality where the lines between genuine and artificial interactions blur.
**The Illusion of Connection**
Cary Harrison progresses by highlighting the illusion of connection that social media platforms have nurtured. With platforms enabling users to accumulate thousands of "friends," the essence of true friendship dilutes. This critique isn't about vilifying social media but rather spotlighting its potential misuse, drawing parallels with historical propaganda techniques.
Facebook's pivot towards a creator-centric model, influenced by platforms like TikTok, further complicates this relationship. The discussion touches on the ethical ramifications of AI-generated content and its role in shaping the internet's future, emphasizing the need for a discerning approach to online interactions.
**Guest Insights: Ed Watal**
The conversation with Ed Watal, an expert in cybersecurity and founder of Intellibus, introduces a critical perspective on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. Watal dives into the concept of "deepfakes" and their potential for fraudulent activities, stressing the need for vigilance and ethical frameworks in AI development. His insights into open-source vulnerabilities and the risk of manipulated information echo the urgency for ethical guidelines in the digital landscape.
Watal's vision for an "ethical AI platform" proposes a model where the integrity of information, respect for copyright, and the protection of public domain are paramount. This approach not only safeguards against unethical data practices but also advocates for a future where AI serves humanity's best interests, without compromising ethical standards.
**Embracing Ethical AI**
The exploration into the realms of AI and social media through "Rethinking Heroes" not only sheds light on the current landscape but also poses significant questions about the future we are constructing. As we forge ahead, the emphasis on ethical AI and the preservation of authentic human connections will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping a digital environment grounded in integrity, accountability, and genuine engagement.
Part 2.
"Project 2025: Unveiling The Blueprint for America's Future"
**Introduction to Project 2025**
Cary speaks with Anne Nelson, a renowned author, international affairs expert, and journalism award winner. Nelson offers a critical examination of the ideological u

This episode of Los Angeles Public Radio’s 'Rethinking Heroes' hosted by Cary Harrison delves into the controversial actions and background of Moms for Liberty, a group known for their stance against the LGBT community and book-banning while engaging in lesbian three-ways and rape allegations. Additionally, the episode discusses broader issues such as climate change denial, extremism in school boards, and the politicization of education in Florida. Featuring an in-depth interview with Dr. Maurice Cunningham, an expert on dark money, featured in Forbes. We explore the origins, motivations, and impact of right-wing “parent” groups on public education. Callers also chime-in on wealth, discrimination, geoengineering, and climate change, 'Rethinking Heroes' aims to shed light on pressing social and political issues through critical discussion and satire.
We dive into a discussion that's as fun as it is necessary. There's something even more exhilarating - unraveling the threads of truth in our society's fabric. Take education, for instance. Imagine a world where schools prioritize scholastics, real history, and science. Instead, what do we see? A ban on books, a censorship of critical content, and a bizarre obsession with keeping children away from harm's way without addressing root causes. It's ludicrous. But let's tread deeper into the waters of historical amnesia. In some places, slavery is brushed under the carpet, as if erasing it from textbooks could change history. My ancestors owned plantations, a fact documented in family diaries alongside visits from George Washington. Yet, acknowledging such truths becomes controversial. Why? Because it challenges a political narrative, disrupts the comfort of ignorance and allows for indifferent gerrymandering. Switch gears to the present. We live in an era where Huck Finn and David Sedaris are banned throughout the southeast, yet the real comedy is the attempt to sanitize history. Who'd have thought?
I've read so many books from from William F. Buckley Jr. to Chomsky to De Tocqueville - books that shaped a portion of my political understanding which seem lost in today's discourse. It's not just about reading; it's about understanding the pivotal role of critical thinking. In this landscape of absurdity, where “grooming” is equated to mere exposure to different American lifestyles, history's complexity is reduced to good versus evil.
Did the gay actor companions of Ronald Reagan alter his sexuality or beliefs? Of course not. He did marry the popular Nancy Reagan, Hollywood legend known for being able to "unbuckle her jaw". No amount of dinner parties with Truman Capote or Rock Hudson changed the Gipper’s appetites nor minimized the joys of her vaunted jaw.
It's a reminder that personal liberty and the complexities of the human condition demand respect, not censorship. As we navigate this terrain, remember that solutions exist, but they require courage and honesty - not just a willingness to turn a blind eye. It's about dismantling hypocrisy, not perpetuating it. And so, as we wax philosophical over brandy and cigars or yoga and green tea, let's commit to unearthing truth, promoting dialogue, and challenging the narratives that bind us. It's not just educational; it's essential to the fabric of our society. Let's make these conversations public, not just for entertainment, but for enlightenment.
00:00 Introduction to Rethinking Heroes
00:04 Unraveling the Controversy: Moms for Liberty Exposed
02:29 The Dark Side of School Boards and Climate Change Denial
03:25 The Hypocrisy of Moms for Liberty and Their Leadership
05:06 Morris Cunningham Sheds Light on Dark Money and School Privatization
06:18 The Rise of Moms for Liberty: A Far-Right Creation
07:05 The Dangerous Branding and Tactics of Moms for Liberty
15:24 Addressing the Extremist Designation and Its Implications
28:14 The Impact of Wealth and Privilege on Society's Perception
29:05 The Philosophy of Noblesse Obl

PART. 1
## The Heartbeat of Free Speech and the Digital Arena: TikTok at the Crossroads
The recent buzz about TikTok potentially changing hands (from the Chinese) to a group led by none other than former W. Bush Treasury Secretary, Steve Mnuchin along with the Israeli spy chief, has rekindled fiery debates about digital autonomy, who holds the reins of power, and the ever-present specter of TikTok’s death-by-censorship. He who controls TikTok, controls the narrative.
You know, TikTok, that vibrant platform synonymous with bite-sized videos and a vibrant young community? It's become ground zero for discussions on free speech and the delicate dance between politics and control. TikTok is also a surprising political arena where topics and discussions, conspicuously avoided by the legacy media, are bountiful and unfiltered.
Critics aren't mincing words; they're arguing that this isn't just your run-of-the-mill business deal. Nope, it's a power play aimed at stifling dissent on sensitive issues, from human rights atrocities to progressive activism. They fear it's a slippery slope toward monopolizing the narrative, drowning out voices in a space once hailed as a sanctuary for unfiltered expression.
## The Political Oracle: James Ray's Insights on Digital Platforms and Political Activism
We speak with the Political Oracle himself, James Ray, a prominent political activist and commentator, particularly known for his extensive work on Palestine and his significant following on TikTok (400K+). Ray's perspective illuminated how TikTok, unlike other platforms, has enabled a broader dissemination of information on political issues like Palestine, which often face censorship elsewhere.
Follow James Ray on TikTok: @jamesgetspolitical
Follow Cary Harrison on TikTok: @TheCaryHarrison

The interactive session with James Ray shed light on the intrinsic value digital platforms hold in amplifying voices that are typically marginalized in mainstream discourse. This isn't just about one platform but the overall maneuvering of digital spaces to curate or control political education and activism, using murky security concerns to quash free speech.
And what about legacy media? Well, Cary's not one to shy away from the tough questions. In a world where truth is a rare commodity, he champions platforms like TikTok, fueled by brave activists like James Ray (Democratic Socialists of America) and Public Radio shows like "Rethinking Heroes" as beacons of raw honesty, doing what the mainstream media seems no longer willing or able to do.
## The Uncertain Future of Free Speech
Digital platforms, as underscored by Cary Harrison and information analysts like James Ray, remain crucial in the fight for a more equitable, just, and transparent world. The discussions on "Rethinking Heroes" serve as a reminder of the role each of us plays in shaping the future of our digital and real-world societies. Cary Harrison’s TikTok: @thecaryharrison
PART 2:
OPEN PHONES
In the heart of broadcast, where the unpredictable meets the airwaves, there's no telling what might happen when the phone lines open. Cary Harrison, a name synonymous with fearless journalism and untamed discussions, has seen his fair share of the unexpected, the bizarre, and the downright insane callers who have graced his show, 'Rethinking Heroes.' From audacious confessions to ludicrous assertions, these callers often leave us with jaws agape and minds boggling.
One such caller, fondly remembered as “Frog from Atlanta”, took us on a roller coaster of conspiracy theories, political bravado, and an alarming admiration for controversial figures. Frog's emphatic defense of former President Trump's endeavors and virtues (or lack thereof) painted a vivid picture of dedication mixed with a heap of delusion. His take on Trump-sponsored Bibles and celestial claims about Trump's supposed virtues was nothing short of comedic gold. Yet, beneath the chuckles, it underscored a glaring reflection on the depth

The valor and heroism of Ron Kovic during the Vietnam War, his subsequent advocacy for peace, and the personal journeys of individuals affected by war. He has completed his trilogy with the latest that includes his diary entries from the Vietnam war field: A Dangerous Country: An American Elegy. The conversation shifts to analyzing the psychological and societal impacts of propaganda, focusing on modern-day radicalization and domestic extremism. It dissects how beliefs and narratives can lead to violence, referencing examples like QAnon, and emphasizes the strategic manipulation of people through propaganda. Further, the script highlights the organized disinformation campaigns, particularly those driven by foreign actors. John Kirbow, a former PSYOP specialist, shares insights on combating domestic extremism and the use of military propaganda techniques within the population. The dialogue also covers broader cultural and political issues, including the importance of genuine patriotism, community support, and the dangers posed by extremist ideologies to veterans and the general public.


This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rethinkingheroes.substack.com/subscribe