

Ted & Courtney Balaker – The Psychic Costs of Campus Progressivism
Aug 29, 2025
Ted Balaker and Courtney Balaker, acclaimed filmmakers known for their work on notable documentaries, dive into the concerning impacts of progressivism on campus culture. They discuss the rise of mental health issues linked to a victimhood narrative among students. The duo shares personal experiences about their approach to homeschooling, highlighting the significance of resilience in today’s educational landscape. They also explore how comedy can bridge divides in our increasingly polarized society, calling for a revival of open dialogue and critical thinking.
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Hidden Mental Patterns Drive Student Distress
- Greg Lukianoff's personal suicidal crisis revealed mental patterns mirrored by students on campuses.
- The filmmakers conclude these cognitive habits help explain rising Gen Z anxiety and depression.
Academic Jargon Became Youth Vigilance
- The term "microaggression" migrated from academic jargon into everyday youth culture rapidly.
- That widespread adoption trained young people to be hypervigilant and more miserable, the filmmakers argue.
Students' Personal Turns Into Activism And Recovery
- The filmmakers found candid young interviewees like Lucy who fell into activist mindsets and then recovered.
- They used these personal journeys to show how intelligent students can be persuaded into harmful worldviews.