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
May 18, 2024 • 37min
Brief: The Outside Agitator Conspiracy Trope (w/Dr. Peniel Joseph)
Dr. Peniel Joseph discusses the 'outside agitator' trope used to discredit protesters throughout history. Exploring its impact on civil rights movements like Black Lives Matter. Unpacking the historical roots and implications of this conspiracy trope on marginalized groups.
May 16, 2024 • 1h 3min
206: Surviving Modern Yoga (w/ Matthew Remski)
Author Matthew Remski discusses survivor stories of abuse in the yoga community and ways to create safer spaces through critical thinking and empowerment. The podcast explores the dark realities of the yoga world, including abuse, manipulation, and hidden agendas within spiritual figures.
May 13, 2024 • 7min
Bonus Sample: The Force That Divides Us All
Former NY Times journalist Isabel Wilkerson discusses her book 'Caste' which explores caste as the root of social divisions. She compares caste systems worldwide, delving into historical contexts in India, Nazi Germany, and America's slavery. The discussion explores the creation of race and caste divisions during colonization, revealing deep historical roots beyond skin color.
May 11, 2024 • 45min
Brief: An Honest Discussion About Food (w/Dr Sarah Ballantyne)
Dr. Sarah Ballantyne discusses dangers of diet misinformation, obesity issues, and challenges of food discussions. Topics include nutrient deficiencies in the US, holistic nutrition, and redefining health beyond size. Also covers personal experiences with weight loss and nutritious food choices.
May 9, 2024 • 1h 16min
205: Dismantling Movement Dogmas (w/Laurel Beversdorf & Sarah Court)
Laurel Beversdorf and Sarah Court discuss movement dogmas, debunking health claims, and fallen gurus in the fitness industry. They emphasize science-based content, challenging alignment dogmas, and the dangers of conspiracism. The conversation dives into back pain management controversies, the impact of social media on pain perception, and the nuances of movement science and pain management. They also explore gender stereotypes in yoga marketing, societal beauty norms, and evolving beliefs around alignment in yoga practice.
May 6, 2024 • 6min
Bonus Sample: Imaginary Children #1: Fetal Remains
Rob Schenck and Frank Pavone discuss investing images of unborn with desires. Rob exits anti-abortion highway, Pavone still on it. Includes Kermit Gosnell story showing political disaster. Abortion details discussed. Exploring symbolism of fetal remains in movement and disturbing encounter in pathology lab.
13 snips
May 4, 2024 • 47min
Brief: Religion is Not Belief? (w/Blair Hodges)
Blair Hodges, a religion historian, challenges the notion that beliefs are essential to religion, emphasizing the need to absorb and neutralize beliefs for communal growth. The discussion explores the complexities of navigating beliefs and disillusionment in religion, highlighting the importance of openness, adaptability, and social justice within religious communities.
May 2, 2024 • 1h 10min
204: What the Hell is RFK Jr Doing?
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr and tech oligarch Nicole Shanahan discuss RFK Jr's anti-vaccine stance, VP aspirations, and doubts about polio. They explore his polling, rhetoric, and charisma, as well as controversies surrounding a Super Bowl ad and political impact. The podcast also delves into the misuse of the 'culture war' term, student protests, live virus vaccines, and RFK Jr's enigmatic spirituality.
Apr 29, 2024 • 6min
Bonus Sample: Let's Talk About Gary Brecka
Human biologist and life coach Gary Brecka's credibility is questioned in this podcast as he discusses topics like seed oils, GMOs, depression, and detoxifying through water fasts. The podcast delves into the controversy surrounding his qualifications and the implications of his pseudoscientific leanings, including his association with a fervent Scientologist. The discussion also covers the environmental and political aspects of holistic health and wellness beliefs.
11 snips
Apr 27, 2024 • 55min
Deep Cut: On Belief
Exploring the impact of spiritual beliefs and conspiracy theories, the podcast delves into intertwined beliefs and actions, personal anecdotes challenging misconceptions, confrontations against racial violence, and reflections on magic, technology, and belief. It also explores the connection between religious symbolism, far-right ideologies, and the Capitol riots.
