Shalom Auslander

Shalom Auslander, an acclaimed novelist and memoirist, unpacks the roots of self-loathing shaped by religious narratives from his Orthodox upbringing. He and Yascha Mounk explore the damaging effects of cultural guilt and shame on identity, advocating for storytelling that fosters self-acceptance. They discuss the journey toward unconditional love, the influence of societal expectations, and how political disillusionment mirrors personal struggles. Auslander offers insights on healing from toxic environments and the essential path to embracing one's true self.

Author Shalom Auslander discusses breaking away from family and the concept of 'Feh'. They explore how Feh has impacted human beings, especially Jews, for years, breaking the cycle, the misery caused by the nonstop news cycle, and the importance of self-discovery through writing.