Banish Big Brother cover art

Banish Big Brother

Banish Big Brother

Written by: Zach Varnell Elizabeth Melton
Listen for free

About this listen

 Join hosts Elizabeth and Zach as they embark on a thought-provoking journey through the labyrinth of privacy, technology, surveillance, and the digital age's unseen battles. Banish Big Brother isn't just another podcast; it's a mission to unravel the complex web of information that surrounds us, challenge the omnipresent eyes of surveillance, advocate for the sanctity of personal privacy in a world that's growing increasingly transparent, and have fun doing it. Each episode, Elizabeth and Zach dive deep into current events, technological advancements, and the shadowy realms of surveillance and privacy. They bring to light the critical issues that affect us all, from the rise of SMART cities to the subtle encroachments on our personal freedoms. Through engaging discussions, expert interviews, and listener stories, they explore the balance between the benefits of technology and the critical need to protect our digital and real-world selves from prying eyes. But it's not all serious business. Elizabeth and Zach also bring a unique blend of humor, wit, and light-heartedness to the conversation, reminding us that even in the midst of challenging topics, there's always room for laughter, fun, and a shared sense of community. Banish Big Brother promises not just to inform and provoke thought but also to entertain, proving that discussions around privacy and surveillance don't always have to be grim. Whether they're sharing quirky anecdotes, engaging in spirited banter, or exploring the lighter side of technology, Elizabeth and Zach create a podcast experience that’s both enlightening and enjoyable. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, privacy advocate, or just curious about the world of surveillance and digital rights, Banish Big Brother is your guide and companion. So tune in, join the conversation, and be part of a growing movement that believes in the power of awareness, the importance of dialogue, and the enduring value of privacy. Join us for a mix of meaningful dialogue, expert insights, and those unexpected moments of joy that remind us why fighting for our rights is worth it.© 2024 Banish Big Brother Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Open Records Are Taking Down Flock Cameras

    Open Records Are Taking Down Flock Cameras
    Jan 26 2026
    The pitch for Flock is always the same: “If you’ve done nothing wrong, you’ve got nothing to hide.” Then a court says the footage is public record, and suddenly cities start unplugging the cameras. In this episode, Zach Varnell and Elizabeth Melton walk through the public records rulings that are forcing Flock programs into crisis […]
    Show More Show Less
    52 mins
  • The Guy Who Ripped Out a License Plate Reader (And Why We Cheered)

    The Guy Who Ripped Out a License Plate Reader (And Why We Cheered)
    Jun 9 2025
    Zach and Elizabeth break down the surreal case of a Missouri county commissioner facing felony charges for removing a license plate reader — even though the county had already banned them. That sparks a deeper conversation about public surveillance, Flock cameras, inflated government tech contracts, and the illusion of “safety.” Then they shift to the […]
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 14 mins
  • Google Drops Pledge to Not Develop AI Weapons & ChatGPT Joins the Dating Scene

    Google Drops Pledge to Not Develop AI Weapons & ChatGPT Joins the Dating Scene
    Apr 3 2025
    We dive into the latest news around AI, surveillance, and control. First up, Google quietly ditches its pledge to avoid developing AI for weapons and surveillance — what does this mean for the future of Big Tech and military partnerships? Then, we break down China’s deployment of its AI system, DeepSeek, in military hospitals and […]
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 14 mins
adbl_web_anon_alc_button_suppression_c
No reviews yet