A recent podcast episode has stirred quite a bit of controversy, highlighting a troubling trend in American media. The episode, which featured discussions that some have interpreted as Nazi apologia and even a defense of the Holocaust, has gained significant attention for its antisemitic rhetoric. This kind of content seems to be more prevalent in alternative media outlets and is a cause for concern among many advocacy groups.
The podcast in question, known as “Fresh and Fit,” is led by hosts Myron Gaines and Walter Weekes. Going by the aliases “Fit” and “Fresh,” they engaged in a conversation that revolved around the Nazi regime and the Holocaust. Alarmingly, they discussed the idea of “taking down” the Jewish community, which naturally sparked an outcry.
During the episode, the hosts and guests made troubling remarks about Adolf Hitler and the Holocaust. They attempted to justify the Nazi Party’s “Final Solution,” making claims that shift the blame onto the Jewish community. These comments were captured in a clip that has since been shared widely on social media.
One of the hosts, Gaines, asked the guests their thoughts on Hitler, prompting some shocking responses. A guest suggested that the Jewish people provoked the Germans, implying that the Holocaust was a reactionary measure. The conversation continued with disturbing comments on the Holocaust being a “gruesome” solution to a so-called problem.
The Fresh and Fit podcast is associated with the “manosphere,” a network of websites promoting pro-masculinity and anti-feminist views. Myron Gaines, also known by his birth name Amrou Fudl, penned a book in 2023 titled “Why Women Deserve Less.” In it, he controversially claims that historical relationships between men and women were akin to prostitution.
The episode in question was initially aired on Rumble, a platform that prides itself on free speech. However, it was eventually removed for violating Rumble’s terms of use, which ban content that incites violence or spreads hatred. Despite this, other episodes of the duo’s podcast remain available on the platform.
In 2023, the Fresh and Fit creators were removed from YouTube’s monetized Partner Program, reportedly due to their controversial content. Although they claimed to be unsure of the exact reasons behind YouTube’s decision, they speculated it was linked to their provocative topics. Their material can still be found on platforms like Apple and Spotify.
Sacha Roytman, from the Combat Antisemitism Movement, warns that the spread of antisemitic ideas in media is not a spontaneous occurrence. He points out that such rhetoric can incite violence if left unchecked. Roytman emphasizes the importance of confronting these dangerous narratives before they cause more harm.
Roytman further stated that when media figures give legitimacy to conspiratorial narratives about Jews, they foster an ecosystem of hate. He stresses the need to address these issues, drawing on history as a lesson to prevent further damage. His call to action is clear: we must act before it’s too late.
This podcast episode is an extreme example, but it reflects a growing trend of antisemitism, particularly in right-wing alternative media. This trend aligns with anti-Israel and pro-Hamas sentiments seen in various protests and violent acts. Natalie Sanandaji of the Combat Antisemitism Movement links this to failures in the education system.
Sanandaji, a Jewish-American, recounts her public school experience in New York and how little the Holocaust was covered in history classes. She believes that understanding the propaganda that led to the Holocaust is crucial to recognizing history’s repetition. This lack of education, she argues, contributes to the current spread of antisemitic ideas.
Conservative commentator Candace Owens has also been involved in controversial discussions about Jews and Israel. Her statements have included downplaying the actions of Nazi scientist Josef Mengele and making unfounded claims about Israel’s involvement in historical events. These views often stray from established historical facts.
Sometimes, conservative figures face criticism not for their own words but for giving a platform to fringe views. Tucker Carlson, a well-known media personality, has faced backlash for hosting a historian who minimized the Holocaust. Such actions raise questions about the responsibilities of media figures in shaping public discourse.
Darnell Thompkins is a conservative opinion writer from Atlanta, GA, known for his insightful commentary on politics, culture, and community issues. With a passion for championing traditional values and personal responsibility, Darnell brings a thoughtful Southern perspective to the national conversation. His writing aims to inspire meaningful dialogue and advocate for policies that strengthen families and empower individuals.