Apocalypse Nowadays

Apocalypse Nowadays 49: On Nitro — The Rise, Reign, and Ruin of WCW

Aaron sits down with journalist and author Guy Evans to explore his book Nitro and the story of World Championship Wrestling’s explosive rise in the late 1990s and its eventual collapse. Drawing on 120+ interviews, the conversation covers Nitro vs. Raw, the NWO era, Eric Bischoff’s audacious leadership, Turner Broadcasting’s role, and the cultural and technological forces that shaped wrestling’s boom.
The episode looks beyond wrestling to examine ambition, innovation, corporate politics, creative burnout, and how a perfect cultural moment made WCW both a global juggernaut and, ultimately, vulnerable to its own excesses.

Apocalypse Nowadays 48: A World Series Game 7 Classic, Shutdowns & Socialist Wins

Aaron and Sik break down a whirlwind week of news — from the Dodgers’ dramatic Game 7 World Series victory and major political shakeups, including a young democratic socialist’s surprise win in New York’s mayoral race, to the fallout from the federal government shutdown affecting SNAP benefits and air travel. They also dive into pop culture headlines, the debate over wrestling fandom amid corporate changes at WWE, and close the episode with some hopeful takes on community, conscious boycotts, and finding their "Not All Doom & Gloom" segment.

Apocalypse Nowadays 47: Halloween Fun, World Series Drama, and SNAP Shutdown

Aaron and Sik dive into Halloween memories and costumes (from Freddy Krueger to Pulp Fiction), baseball drama as the Dodgers push to Game 7, and the fallout from a government shutdown threatening SNAP/EBT benefits. They also break down misinformation about food stamps, recent court rulings, and the broader political battles over welfare and economic hardship. Lastly, they explore anti-intellectualism, civic action through Prop 50 and redistricting, reflections from stoic readings, and a closing “not all doom and gloom” segment offering perspective and hope.

Apocalypse Nowadays 46: ICE vs. the Bay, Halloween Fits, NBA Tip-Off & Operation Royal Flush

Aaron and Sik break down mounting tensions across U.S. cities, from No Kings rallies and National Guard deployments in the Bay Area to mass ICE-style raids in Chicago and a violent Alameda protest incident that raises safety and civil liberties concerns.
They then pivot to sports and culture: the Sports Equinox with MLB, NBA, NFL, and NHL all in action, Victor Wembanyama’s explosive season debut, thoughts on the Warriors and Lakers, and the FBI’s "Operation Royal Flush" gambling arrests tied to organized crime. The episode closes on lighter notes with Halloween plans, a family music night, and a reminder to vote, protest safely, and take care of each other.

Apocalypse Nowadays 45: Remembering D'Angelo; The Soulful Genius Behind Neo-Soul

Apocalypse Nowadays honors the life and legacy of D’Angelo, tracing his evolution from Brown Sugar to Voodoo and the revolutionary Black Messiah. Aaron & Sik reflect on his profound musical influence, the "Soulquarians’" creative movement, and his personal battles with fame and health. They also explore the pressures Black artists face, the importance of mental and physical well-being for Black men, and lastly invite listeners to revisit D’Angelo’s timeless discography to celebrate his enduring impact on music and culture.

Apocalypse Nowadays 44: Dodgers' Improbable Walk-Off, Bad Bunny Super Bowl Outrage, and Political Fallout

Aaron and Sik unpack the Dodgers’ postseason win following a costly Phillies error, Bad Bunny’s controversial Super Bowl performance, and the conservative backlash, as well as the political tensions surrounding Charlie Kirk’s death and broader culture wars. They explore media influence, international events like the Israel ceasefire, and debates over boycotts and civic engagement, examining how these crises ripple into everyday life. In their segment “Not All Doom and Gloom,” they highlight uplifting live shows from Dave Chappelle and Duran Jones & The Indications, encouraging listeners to protect their energy and find moments of joy amid the chaos.

Apocalypse Nowadays 43: One Battle After Another...Onscreen and Off

This week, Aaron and Sik go everywhere: from comedians stirring controversy in Riyadh to drama inside sports and media leadership. They break down the chaos and conspiracy theories after Charlie Kirk’s assassination, take on censorship and political power, and give their take on Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another through the lens of class, race, and culture. The show wraps with a salute to Assata Shakur, a birthday shout, and a call to stay grounded, organized, and hopeful in uncertain times.

Apocalypse Nowadays 42: Jacob’s Student of the Year Moment

Aaron sits down with young Jacob Kifle as he graduates to kindergarten, wins Student of the Year, and shares favorite books and big dreams. A short, joyful episode full of pride, laughter, and family support.

Apocalypse Nowadays 41: Interview with Victoria Kifle: Neighborhood Pharmacist, Neighborhood Hero

Aaron talks with Inglewood pharmacist Victoria Kifle about her journey into pharmacy, the health literacy gap she sees in patients, helping people navigate co-pays and insurance, and how COVID reshaped healthcare.
They also cover work-life balance as a mother and wife, Victoria’s schedule pivot, and a lighter chat about what she’s watching—Love Island USA—plus plans for future episodes.

Apocalypse Nowadays 40: Beachside Chats and Future Dreams with CaMarr Burleson

Join Aaron and his nephew CaMarr Burleson for a laid-back conversation on a sunny day at Manhattan Beach. Fresh off finishing 10th grade, CaMarr shares his summer plans focused on learning, growth, and self-discovery.
Between bites at Baja Sharkee’s and thrills from Final Destination: Bloodlines, the two reflect on life’s milestones, aspirations, and the journey ahead. It’s a relaxed yet thoughtful episode about youth, ambition, and enjoying the moment—set against the sound of the waves and the warmth of family connection.