Between the Presets

An Iron Curtain in Cyberspace

Welcome to another episode of Between the Presets with Rudy Stettner. This week, Rudy reflects on the significance of the Berlin Wall, its history, and its impact on freedom and information. He draws parallels between the physical barriers of the past and the digital barriers of today, exploring how social media and the internet have created new forms of division.
Rudy shares personal anecdotes from his recent trip to Pittsburgh, his experiences with online censorship, and the importance of maintaining open channels for dialogue and information exchange. He emphasizes the need for a mature approach to solving common problems and the potential for technology to bridge gaps between people of differing opinions.
Join Rudy as he delves into the past and present, advocating for the dismantling of modern-day "iron curtains" in our digital world. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment to support the podcast. Until next week, adiós!

Popular Culture: Maintaining a Filter

Welcome to another episode of Between the Presets, hosted by Rudy Stettner. In this week's episode, Rudy discusses the challenges of accessing political advertisements across different states and the importance of transparency in political campaigns. He reflects on the historical and current state of media bias, drawing from his experiences with shortwave radio and international news outlets.
Rudy delves into the effects of Western pop culture on communist societies, the genre of Ostrock, and the concept of cultural secession. He shares insights on the importance of preserving personal beliefs and values in the face of mainstream media and educational systems. Rudy also touches on the delicate balance between religion and politics, emphasizing the need for dialogue across political boundaries.
Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of media influence, cultural integrity, and the ongoing battle for the human mind. Don't forget to like, subscribe, or leave a comment, and join us next Monday for another engaging discussion.

Tuning Out Noise and School Choice

Welcome to the latest episode of Between the Presets with Rudy Stettner. This week, Rudy dives into the observance of Tisha B'Av, reflecting on its significance and its impact on his schedule. He shares personal insights on dealing with health challenges, likening it to living next to a noisy train and the ability to mentally tune out discomfort.
Rudy also explores the fascinating journey of language learning through real-life experiences and media, emphasizing the value of immersive learning. He highlights the influence of music in mastering a new language and the inspiration derived from meaningful lyrics.
The episode takes a serious turn as Rudy discusses the state of public education, advocating for the support of religious schools to ensure that children receive an education aligned with their family's values. He calls for a more equitable funding system and emphasizes the importance of passing on spiritual and cultural heritage to future generations.
Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that spans tradition, personal growth, and the crucial topic of educational choice.

Register Your Typewriter With the Thought Police

Welcome to another engaging episode of Between the Presets, hosted by Rudy Stettner. This week, Rudy delves into the history and evolution of free speech, beginning with China's 100 Flowers Campaign and moving through the technological advancements that have reshaped the landscape of dissent in the modern era.Rudy takes listeners on a journey from the limited media options of the 1960s and 70s to today's expansive digital realm, where information is both more accessible and more controllable than ever before. He explores the implications of algorithmic censorship, recounts historical anecdotes from the Soviet Union, and draws parallels to contemporary issues such as the suppression of controversial viewpoints during the COVID pandemic.From book burnings in Nazi Germany to the subtler, yet equally insidious, manipulation of search engine results, Rudy highlights the persistent struggle for true freedom of expression. He also touches on personal interests like the preservation of linguistic minorities and the transformation of youth movements in post-war Germany.Tune in to hear Rudy's thought-provoking analysis on the challenges and importance of protecting free speech in our ever-changing world. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts by emailing Rudy at thewinterriders@gmail.com. See you next Monday for another episode of Between the Presets.

Remembering the Past or Deleting It

Welcome to another episode of Between the Presets with Rudy Stettner. This week, we explore the fascinating world of historical archives and the significance of preserving our collective past. Rudy reflects on his experiences with old news clippings and the invaluable insights they provide into events like Kristallnacht.We delve into the current election cycle, discussing the importance of accessible media archives in scrutinizing the records of political figures such as Kamala Harris. Rudy highlights the alarming trend of information being scrubbed or altered, emphasizing the need for transparency and honesty in political discourse.From the shifting meanings of terms like "liberal" and "progressive" to the clever language used in marketing, Rudy offers a thought-provoking analysis of how words shape our perceptions. He also touches on the challenges of modern-day inflation and the shrinking sizes of consumer products.In closing, Rudy advocates for civil discourse, the value of maintaining friendships despite differing viewpoints, and the importance of abiding by laws to ensure a harmonious society. Join us for a compelling discussion on the power of history and the need for integrity in our digital age.

A Cappella and the Empty Chair

Welcome to another episode of Between the Presets, hosted by Rudy Stettner. This Monday evening, Rudy delves into the significance of the 17th of Tamuz, a Jewish fast day, and the profound historical events it commemorates. He shares personal reflections on fasting, the challenges of living without instrumental music, and the spiritual resonance of a cappella melodies.Rudy also explores the balance between personal effort and prayer, drawing on poignant memories of his father’s struggles with paraplegia. He discusses the value of cooperation in daily life, using a frustrating encounter with the post office as an example of the human capacity to navigate bureaucratic landscapes and work together.The episode touches on broader societal issues, including the integrity of election processes and the importance of reducing political incitement. Rudy shares insights on political discourse, the diversity of problem-solving approaches, and the lessons Americans can learn from immigrants who have experienced civil unrest.Concluding with a wish for a peaceful election season and a reminder of the value of diverse opinions, Rudy wraps up this thought-provoking episode with a call for unity and understanding.Tune in next week for more reflections and discussions. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, or leave a comment on your preferred platform. You can reach Rudy at thewinterriders@gmail.com.

Robocalls, Patriotism and Civil Wars

Welcome to another episode of Between the Presets, hosted by Rudy Stettner. In this week's thought-provoking discussion, Rudy explores the significance of the four freedoms outlined by Franklin D. Roosevelt: freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear.
Rudy delves into the challenges of modern communication, touching on the frustration of robocalls and the importance of maintaining civility and patriotism in our daily lives. He shares his recent observations from a trip to the Catskills and reflects on the role of national symbols in fostering a sense of community.
Drawing parallels between historical conflicts and current societal issues, Rudy emphasizes the value of free speech and the dangers of censorship. He advocates for a balanced approach to controversial topics, urging listeners to engage in open dialogue and learn from global examples of civil strife.
Join Rudy as he navigates the complexities of political discourse, the importance of shared national identity, and the lessons we can learn from history. Don't miss this enlightening episode of Between the Presets.

Forgiveness and Crossword Puzzles

Welcome to another episode of Between the Presets with Rudy Stettner. In this episode, Rudy reflects on the 30th yahrtzeit of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, sharing personal memories and the impact of the Rebbe’s teachings on his life. He delves into the significance of charitable acts and the ways they connect people, even in times of crisis.
Rudy also explores the inspiring journeys of musical icons like Charlie Pride and Paul Robeson, who broke racial barriers in their respective fields. He highlights their contributions to music and the lessons we can learn from their perseverance and success.
Additionally, Rudy discusses the themes of forgiveness and personal growth, drawing from his own experiences and struggles. He emphasizes the importance of compassion and understanding in both personal and professional settings.
Join Rudy for a thoughtful and introspective episode that weaves together history, music, and profound life lessons. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment to share your thoughts!