Conspirituality
Derek Beres, Matthew Remski, Julian Walker
Dismantling New Age cults, wellness grifters, and conspiracy-mad yogis. At best, the conspirituality movement attacks public health efforts in times of crisis. At worst, it fronts and recruits for the fever-dream of QAnon. As the alt-right and New Age horseshoe toward each other in a blur of disinformation, clear discourse, and good intentions get smothered. Charismatic influencers exploit their followers by co-opting conspiracy theories on a spectrum of intensity ranging from vaccines to child trafficking. In the process, spiritual beliefs that have nurtured creativity and meaning are transforming into memes of a quickly-globalizing paranoia. Conspirituality Podcast attempts to bring understanding to this landscape. A journalist, a cult researcher, and a philosophical skeptic discuss the stories, cognitive dissonances, and cultic dynamics tearing through the yoga, wellness, and new spirituality worlds. Mainstream outlets have noticed the problem. We crowd-source, research, analyze, and dream answers to it.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 9, 2024 • 6min
Bonus Sample: Imaginary Children # 3: Mole Children vs. Gazan Children
The podcast dives into the troubling contrast between imaginary narratives like 'Mole Children' and the stark realities faced by Gazan children in conflict. It critiques how conspiracy theories can overshadow actual humanitarian crises. There’s a deep exploration of the social and mental health implications of denying real trauma while grappling with moral injury. Listeners are challenged to reflect on the consequences of dismissing genuine suffering in favor of sensationalized narratives, urging a focus on truth and compassion.
Sep 7, 2024 • 21min
Brief: Ultra-processed Pseudoscience
Calley Means, cofounder of TrueMed, and his sister Casey Means, founder of Levels, dive into today's wellness landscape. They tackle the controversial subject of seed oils, criticizing the food and pharma industries for prioritizing profits over people's health. The siblings confront the contradictions in their own health narratives, examining the ethical implications of health savings products. They also explore the complexities of biohacking, challenging the mainstream assumptions around continuous glucose monitoring and processed food diets.
Sep 5, 2024 • 1h 10min
222: RFK Jr: As the Worm Turns
RFK Jr., a prominent political figure, recently shifted gears by backing Trump after withdrawing from the presidential race. The conversation dives into the risks of this unexpected alliance for America's political landscape. Topics range from the quirks of wellness culture, including the raw milk debate, to the performative politics seen during the Democratic National Convention. The episode also highlights troubling declines in vaccine confidence and the spread of misinformation, exploring its implications for public health and the environment.
Sep 2, 2024 • 6min
Bonus Sample: The OG New Age Grifter: Madame Blavatsky
Helena Blavatsky, a Russian aristocrat and pioneering figure of the New Age movement, delves into her controversial legacy. She claimed to channel ancient wisdom, yet much of her work was heavily plagiarized. The discussion reveals how she founded the Theosophical Society and adopted a dubious backstory. Blavatsky's influence extends even into the rise of alien channelers and extremist ideologies, including unsettling connections to Nazism. The episode cautions about the seductive nature of New Age beliefs and their potential dangers in today's culture.
Aug 31, 2024 • 34min
Brief: Trump’s Impending Ego Implosion (w/ Daniel Shaw)
Daniel Shaw, a psychotherapist specializing in trauma-informed therapies and author of 'Traumatic Narcissism,' dives deep into the psychological landscape surrounding Trump. He discusses the alarming diagnoses that suggest Trump's long-standing mental health issues. Shaw explores the potential fallout from his ego's decline, comparing it to infamous cult leaders. The conversation also highlights the urgent need for mental health professionals to engage in political discourse and the importance of education in healing the societal wounds left in Trump's wake.
Aug 29, 2024 • 1h 2min
221: The Dangers of Dr Google (w/Dr Jonathan Stea)
Dr. Jonathan Stea, a mental health expert specializing in technology's impact on well-being, joins the discussion on the rising trend of online mental health advice. They explore the risks of misinformation, especially among young people, and the ethical dilemmas faced by professionals combating false narratives. Stea emphasizes the importance of informed science communication to help navigate the wellness industry and its pitfalls, while also sharing insights from his new book, which tackles these pressing challenges head-on.
Aug 26, 2024 • 7min
Bonus Sample: The Next Plandemic Grift
In this engaging discussion, Peter McCullough, a controversial public health figure, joins media personality Drew Pinsky to explore misinformation around mpox. Mikki Willis compellingly applies storytelling to health narratives, while Russell Brand and Bret Weinstein delve into conspiratorial perspectives, suggesting a government agenda. They critically address the dangerous blend of health misinformation and commercial interests, shedding light on how public health measures are often overlooked in favor of sensational claims.
Aug 24, 2024 • 39min
Brief: Dictatorship for Dummies
Internal training videos reveal a conservative agenda aiming to erase topics like climate change from public discourse. The discussion digs into the motivations behind Project 2025 and how political language shapes perceptions on issues like reproductive rights. Challenges in sex education and the importance of understanding gender fluidity are also explored. Additionally, the emotional impact of critical race theory and the critique of evolving language in social justice highlight the need for equity and nuanced communication in today's political landscape.
Aug 22, 2024 • 1h 15min
220: Swifties for Trump (and Other AI Lies)
In a surprising twist, Donald Trump, the former US president, and Taylor Swift, the renowned singer-songwriter, tackle the rising influence of AI in politics. They discuss the alarming spread of AI-generated misinformation, including fake endorsements that blur reality. The conversation delves into the repercussions of misleading content on electoral integrity, public funding for private religious schools, and the potential dangers of AI in shaping public perception. Together, they highlight the urgent need for discernment in an increasingly chaotic information landscape.
Aug 19, 2024 • 5min
Bonus Sample: Introducing the Conspirituality Relief Project
A thought-provoking discussion explores hope and resilience in today's challenging world. Guests share personal stories that offer wisdom and comfort. They tackle tough questions about community building and the fear of climate catastrophes. Listeners will find inspiration through reflections on how to guide the next generation and the importance of supportive relationships. The initiative aims to shed light on navigating hard times together.
