In this insightful conversation, Jonathan Hirsch, podcast producer and author of "The Mind Is Burning," shares his harrowing journey of growing up in a cult-like environment. He discusses the complex dynamics of caring for his father, whose life spiraled into dementia under the grip of spiritual beliefs. Hirsch reflects on balancing his own identity with familial loyalty amidst the emotional turmoil of estrangement. He also delves into the challenges of the 'sandwich generation,' navigating the delicate intersection of caregiving and personal responsibilities.
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Childhood with Guru's Cutout
Jonathan Hirsch grew up in a home where a cardboard cutout of his parents' spiritual guru, Franklin Jones, sat on the couch. - His family practiced worship and meditation centered around this figure, shaping his unusual childhood experience.
insights INSIGHT
Parents' Spiritual Quest Origins
Hirsch's parents were seekers of spiritual advancement influenced by the 60s-70s counterculture. - Their journey led them to worship Franklin Jones who promised personal transcendence beyond conventional life.
insights INSIGHT
Spiritual Life Over Parenting
Hirsch's parents prioritized spiritual evolution over traditional parenting responsibilities. - They believed their own spiritual progress would benefit Jonathan by inheritance rather than direct parenting.
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The Mind is Burning: Losing My Father to a Cult and Dementia
The Mind is Burning: Losing My Father to a Cult and Dementia
Losing My Father to a Cult and Dementia
Jonathan Hirsch
Jonathan Hirsch's "The Mind is Burning" is a poignant audio memoir detailing his complex relationship with his father, who was deeply involved in a spiritual group. The book explores the challenges of providing care for a parent who was emotionally distant and unprepared for old age. Hirsch grapples with themes of estrangement, forgiveness, and the burden of caregiving. The narrative weaves together personal experiences with broader societal reflections on family obligations and the limitations of the healthcare system. Ultimately, the memoir offers a raw and honest portrayal of a son's journey toward understanding and acceptance.
The Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna
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Sri Ramakrishna
The Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna is a collection of sayings and anecdotes about the life and teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, a 19th-century Indian mystic. The book offers a glimpse into his profound spiritual experiences and his unique approach to religious practice. It emphasizes the importance of love, devotion, and direct experience of the divine. The Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna is known for its vivid descriptions of Ramakrishna's spiritual ecstasies and his ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. The book has had a profound impact on the spiritual lives of countless individuals, inspiring them to seek their own direct experience of the divine. It remains a timeless classic in the field of spiritual literature.
In his popular podcast “Dear Franklin Jones,” radio producer Jonathan Hirsch tried to make sense of a Northern California childhood dominated by his parents’ spiritual guru. In a new memoir he more deeply explores his relationship with his father and the complexity of providing care for a parent who didn’t take care of him. We talk to him about his audio memoir, “The Mind is Burning: Losing My Father to a Cult and Dementia”
Guests:
Jonathan Hirsch, author of the audiobook memoir, "The Mind Is Burning: Losing my Father to a Cult and Dementia"; podcast producer, "Dear Franklin Jones"; founder, Neon Hum Media, a partner company with Sony Music Entertainment; creator, original series "Smoke Screen"
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