TheThinkingAtheist It's a Brutal Time to Be Even Remotely Intelligent
Nov 11, 2025
Rick shares a heartfelt account of losing his 23-year-old daughter to COVID-19, recounting the deep grief and long-term struggles that followed her death. He emphasizes the toll of sorrow on health and relationships, urging support from others. Meanwhile, Garrison discusses family divisions during the Trump era, highlighting experiences of racism against his Korean-American wife and the challenge of navigating political and religious differences. Together, they explore the rise of anti-intellectualism and its implications for society.
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Dismissiveness Masks Real Loss
- Rick highlights how dismissive questions about pre-existing conditions minimize individual losses and perpetuate misinformation.
- He connects that dismissiveness to a broader cultural failure to respect pandemic deaths.
Show Up And Stay Present
- Rick urges people to 'show up' for grieving parents and remain loyally present over the long term.
- He stresses that words matter less than ongoing presence and practical support.
Leaving Mormonism After Doubts
- Ben describes leaving the Mormon Church after years of doubt and credits Seth's show and a guest for helping him deconvert.
- He emphasizes the courage it took and that he's thriving as an atheist now.