Coffee and a Mike Matt Bracken and James Howard Kunstler #1258
Nov 27, 2025
James Howard Kunstler, a novelist and social critic known for his insights on society, and Matt Bracken, a Navy SEAL author and historian, join forces to dive into intriguing topics. They discuss Kunstler's latest novel, Look, I'm Gone, set during JFK's assassination, exploring its cultural connections. The duo also debates Bitcoin's viability, Europe's political turmoil, and the fragility of the housing market. Additionally, they reflect on the influence of Catcher in the Rye and the alternate history of early America's visitors. A thought-provoking conversation packed with insights!
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Florida's Divided Geography And Fragility
- Matt Bracken emphasizes Florida's geography: north is buildable, south is a crowded rim of archipelago.
- He warns south-of-Orlando development depends on piped water and imported goods, making it fragile.
Housing Turnover Predicts Economic Health
- They discuss housing turnover as a core economic signal that can lock up markets when prices fall.
- Matt and Coffee and a Mike note houses staying on market long indicates recession and halts movement and construction.
Bitcoin Lacks A True Stress Test
- Kunstler argues Bitcoin hasn't been tested in a deep liquidity crisis where people must choose house or crypto.
- He warns Bitcoin's resilience is uncertain when holders face real-life survival trade-offs.
