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
Jul 1, 2024 • 7min
Bonus Sample: The Prophet & the Electrical Storm
Discover the intriguing life of prophet Ellen G. White and her religious teachings. Dive into the intersection of spirituality and pseudoscience with references to various historical figures. Explore the impact of White's experiences on her beliefs and the influence she had on millions of followers.
Jun 29, 2024 • 35min
Brief: Jordan Peterson Teaches Russell Brand Theology
Russell Brand and Jordan Peterson discuss theology, wokeness, and censorship. Brand's political views, Peterson simplifying complex ideas, and biblical analogies on materialism and conservatism aspects are explored. The conversation also touches on theological concepts and spiritual connections while addressing negative attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community.
Jun 27, 2024 • 1h 13min
212: US Military Tells RFK Jr-Style Lies
The podcast delves into the US military's secret anti-vax program targeting China's Sinovac vaccine, causing concerns for global public health. It explores the online battle defending vaccines, analyzes American imperialism and global politics, and examines the impact of anti-China propaganda campaigns. The discussion navigates misinformation, conspiracy theories, corporate influence, government dual roles, and political dangers.
Jun 24, 2024 • 6min
Bonus Sample: Sanctimonious Spirituality
A discussion on the connection between spiritual practice and social action, using Aubrey Marcus's 'Anti-Cult' documentary as a starting point. Topics include ties of a public figure to various businesses and the transformative experiences at Fit for Service retreats involving psychedelics.
Jun 22, 2024 • 48min
Deep Cut: Leonard Leo, Judicial Kingmaker
Guest Leonard Leo, a power-broker in right-wing politics, discusses reshaping society, controlling the court, and his libertarian Catholic agenda. The podcast dives into Leo's influence over SCOTUS judges, connections to billionaire donors, and the Federalist Society's systematic takeover of the judicial system.
Jun 20, 2024 • 1h 10min
211: Terrence Howard Solves Science
Acclaimed actor Terrence Howard debunks mainstream science, shares his unique physics discoveries. Discusses spiritual visions, maverick experts, and dangerous mind. Talks about patent claims, etheric force machine, and unconventional views on physics and math. Explores childhood fantasies, charismatic leaders, interacting with Neil deGrasse Tyson. Touches on detox, vaccinations, UFOs, and government conspiracies.
Jun 17, 2024 • 6min
Bonus Sample: 6 Chapters on Prospirituality
Exploring different positions on spirituality, the impact of beliefs on social structures, unexpected friendships with religious believers, and the reform potential within high-demand groups are some intriguing topics covered in the podcast.
Jun 15, 2024 • 34min
Brief: Math Class with Terrence Howard & Eric Weinstein
Terrence Howard and Eric Weinstein discuss Howard's controversial math theories, including 1x1=2. They explore Weinstein's critique of platforming unscientific ideas and veering off-topic. Topics include loss of credibility in universities, trust in information, and Eric Weinstein's unique catchphrases.
Jun 13, 2024 • 1h 7min
210: Bioquacking Bro Science (feat Mallory DeMille)
At the 10th Annual Biohacking Conference, Dave Asprey promotes unconventional longevity methods like butter in coffee. Mallory DeMille reviews the sciencey gimmicks and new ventures presented. The allure of constantly promoting new 'keys' to longevity is highlighted, along with controversies surrounding biohacking practices and the evolution of biohacking conferences.
Jun 10, 2024 • 6min
Bonus Sample: Speak Through Me
Delving into the historical origins of conspirituality, the podcast uncovers the relationship between QAnon, spiritualism, New Age beliefs, and Christian revivalism. It explores figures like Helena Blavatsky, Ellen G. White, and the modern connections to cosmic events and pandemic awakenings.
