ISIS in Iraq has beheaded journalist James Foley, and released a video of it on YouTube and other social media platforms. We discuss the life of James Foley with his former friend and associate, Matthew VanDyke, and we learn of their shared time in Syria and learn some additional information on the “utopian” philosophy at the heart of ISIS. The vulnerability of journalists in the middle east, and the ongoing ordeal with Steven Sotloff is discussed in this Media Mayhem interview, hosted by Allison Hope Weiner.

GUEST BIO:

Matthew VanDyke is an American documentary filmmaker and former journalist. He gained notoriety during the Libyan civil war as a foreign fighter on the side of the uprising and as a prisoner of war.

As a journalist and documentary filmmaker, VanDyke traveled throughout North Africa and the Middle East by motorcycle from 2007–2011. His experiences and observations during these four years led him to join the Libyan civil war as a rebel fighter. VanDyke has publicly announced his support of revolutions in the Arab world, and stated his intention to assist them using a variety of means, including participating as an armed combatant.

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EPISODE BREAKDOWN:

00:01 Welcome to Media Mayhem.

00:50 Introducing Matthew VanDyke.

01:20 James Foley and the Syrian government’s treatment of civilians during the Civil War.

04:00 Why are we just hearing about ISIS now?

07:20 Steven Sotloff, the dangers of working in conflict zones, and missing journalists.

09:30 Video of James Foley’s beheading and the message it sends the U.S.

14:00 Did Foley and Sotloff know they were risking their lives in Syria?

16:40 Thanks and goodbye.